Jennifer Kyle was elected as the first female Mayor for the County of Brant following the Municipal Election, which was held on Monday, October 26, 2026.
Kyle captured over 60 per cent of the vote, well ahead of Christine Garneau Bisaillon, who finished second with over 25 per cent. Graham Horner placed third with over five per cent, followed by David Swanson, Stuart Braid and Kent Hollett.
A total of 12,876 votes were cast in every race with Kyle winning the Mayor’s seat by a wide margin of 4,450 votes over Garneau Bisaillon.
The election marks a new chapter for the municipality, which was formed through amalgamation in 1999. Kyle will become the third person to serve as Mayor since the County’s formation, following Ron Eddy, who held the position from 1999 to 2018, and David Bailey, who served from 2018 to 2026.
Earlier this year, Bailey announced that he would not be seeking a third term after eight years in the role.
“It is with full heart and deep gratitude that I share that I will not be seeking a third term as Mayor of the County of Brant,” Bailey said. “Eight years feels like the right time for a transition. I have given this role everything I have, and I am proud of what we have accomplished together. I also believe it’s healthy for any organization to welcome new energy and new leadership.”
As for the ward races throughout the municipality, incumbents had a a strong showing as all six secured another term on council. John MacAlpine easily won his seat in ward one and will be joined by Steve Schmitt. In ward two, new councillor James McColloch will be joined by veteran Steve Howes.
Incumbents John Pierce and John Bell will represent ward three for the third consecutive term while ward four residents will be represented by incumbent Robert Chambers, who will be joined by Ben Clement.
Ella Haley will, once again represent ward five after winning a by-election in March, and will be joined by Mike Gatopoulos.
In the races for school trustees, Lorraine DeJong and Rita Collver will represent the constituents as trustees for the Grand Erie District School Board (GEDSB) while David Miller was acclaimed as trustee for Brant Haldimand Norfolk District Catholic School Board (BHNDCSB).
The newly elected Mayor and Council will officially take office on November 16, 2026.
