City of Pickering Reviews Ward Boundaries Ahead of the 2026 Municipal Election

Pickering, ON, April 24, 2025 – The City of Pickering has initiated a Ward Boundary Review to determine whether the new ward boundaries, adopted in 2021 and set to take effect for the 2026 Municipal Election, remain appropriate in light of evolving population growth and distribution.

Ward boundary reviews are a critical component of ensuring fair and effective representation across the municipality. They help maintain equitable access to local government by balancing population size within each ward, ensuring all residents are fairly represented by their elected officials.

City Council directed staff on January 27, 2025, to revisit the findings of the last Ward Boundary Review, conducted in 2021, using updated population data and growth projections. Based on these insights, staff will recommend whether any changes to the ward boundaries, outlined in By-law 7875/21, are necessary.

“As our city continues to grow and change, it’s important that our systems of representation evolve along with it,” said Mayor Kevin Ashe. “This review ensures that we’re listening to our community and delivering a democratic process that reflects the needs of our residents, today and into the future.”

Members of the public are invited to participate in upcoming Public Engagement Sessions to learn more about the review and provide feedback:

Public Engagement Session 1
Date: Thursday, May 1, 2025
Time: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Location: Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex - Lobby

Public Engagement Session 2
Date: Wednesday, May 14, 2025
Time: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Location: Dr. Nelson F. Tomlinson Community Centre – Lions Meeting Room

Pickering’s current system of representation includes a seven-member Council, composed of a Mayor and six Councillors – two per ward, with one serving as a Regional Councillor and one as a City Councillor.

Although the ward boundaries adopted in 2021 were initially appealed to the Ontario Land Tribunal, the appeal was later withdrawn. However, due to timing requirements set out in the Municipal Act, the updated boundaries could not be implemented in time for the 2022 Municipal Election. As a result, they are scheduled to take effect in 2026, unless further amended through the 2025 review, within the prescribed legislative timelines.

Residents can view background information, explore the 2021 Council-approved boundaries, and submit feedback online at pickering.ca/wardboundaries.

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As the gateway to the east GTA, Pickering (population 114,000) is strategically located where Toronto, York and Durham Regions meet. An award-winning municipality, Pickering is slated for significant economic and residential growth; offering an unparalleled quality of life for those who live, work, and play here. Its dynamic City Centre has been designated by the Province of Ontario as both an Urban Growth Centre and Mobility Hub, and continues to evolve as a preferred destination for creative learning, memorable events, and unique experiences at the heart of a vibrant, connected, and engaged community.