The Belleville Chamber of Commerce, together with YourTV and the Central Lakes Association of REALTORS, hosted the 2026 Municipal Election Candidates’ Forum on Tuesday, September 29 at the Empire Theatre, drawing a strong turnout from residents eager to hear from those seeking office this election.
The evening’s official business opened at 7 p.m. with the Ward 1 Councillor Candidates Forum, where 15 of the ward’s 16 candidates took the stage to answer questions and speak to their platforms. Cadi Pontinen was unable to attend due to illness. Councillor candidate introduction videos can be viewed here and watch the Ward 1 candidates forum here.
At 8 p.m., three of the four mayoral candidates — Neil Ellis, Paul Fleming, and Don Metzger — took part in a healthy, respectful debate covering key issues facing the city. Kyle Woolven was not in attendance. Watch the mayoral debate here.
Throughout the evening, candidates engaged thoughtfully with the questions put to them and treated one another with respect, reflecting well on the process and on the community’s civic culture.
The BCC thanks everyone who came out to participate in this important part of the municipal election, as well as the candidates who gave their time to share their vision for Belleville’s future.
See more about this event on our Facebook page, here.
Watch the mayoral debate, here.
Watch the Ward 1 candidates debate, here.
For more information on the candidates, including contact details, refer to official list of candidates, here.
