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Ontario opens applications for Simcoe County’s head of council, eliminates warden

July 9, 2026   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

The Government of Ontario has opened the application process for the County of Simcoe’s head of council position.

The position was previously known as warden or county chair.

Applications are due by July 13, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

As outlined by the province, heads of council help guide municipal priorities, chair council meetings, represent the region at official events, and support coordination among local municipalities.

The head of council will ensure decisions are carried out and that local government remains accountable and transparent.

The province’s public appointments secretariat is now accepting applications for this provincial appointment.

To be considered, applicants must meet the eligibility requirements under the Municipal Act 2001, including being eligible to vote in a lower-tier municipality within the County of Simcoe.

The role of the head of council includes:

• Leads county council and supports its strategic direction

• Chairs council meetings and guides decision-making

• Represents the county at regional and provincial events

• Supports collaboration across all lower-tier municipalities

• Promotes accountability in local government

Qualified individuals are encouraged to review the posting and apply through the province’s Public Appointments Secretariat.

The appointment of a full-time Head of Council became legislation as part of the Better Governance Act 2026, passed by the Ontario Government on May 7, 2026.

Prior to this provincial change, the role of Head of Council was selected by county council from among its 32 members.

The Better Governance Act also reduced the size of county council from 32 to 17, which includes 16 mayors and a full-time Head of Council. 

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