Mississauga has set a new record for advance voting in a municipal election, with 44,049 residents casting ballots early ahead of Election Day.

The total, from voting locations across the city between Oct. 6 and Oct. 11, is a 57 per cent increase over the 2022 municipal election, when 28,052 advance votes were cast, according to a City of Mississauga news release.

Turnout built steadily over the six days. Voting began slowly, with 1,139 ballots on Oct. 6 and 948 on Oct. 7, before climbing to 11,022 on Oct. 8, 9,147 on Oct. 9 and 9,458 on Oct. 10. The busiest day was the final one, with 12,335 ballots cast on Oct. 11.

Advance voting turnout has grown markedly in recent elections. In 2018, 19,188 residents voted in advance, and in the 2024 mayoral by-election, 24,731 ballots were cast early.

"Thank you to all those who took the time to vote early. The strong participation during advance voting is encouraging. Every ballot represents an eligible voter having a say in who will make decisions affecting Mississauga's neighbourhoods, services and future."

That statement came from Diana Rusnov, City Clerk and Director of Legislation Services.

Election Day is Oct. 26

Residents who did not vote during the advance polls can still cast a ballot on Monday, Oct. 26, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. On Election Day, eligible voters can vote at any voting location within their ward.

The city is encouraging residents to make a voting plan ahead of time by confirming where they can vote, reviewing the certified list of candidates and making sure they have acceptable identification.

Voters who received a Voter Notification Card are asked to bring it along. The card is not required to vote, but it can speed up the check-in process. All voters must bring one piece of identification showing their name and a qualifying Mississauga address.

The election will decide who represents Mississauga residents for the 2026 to 2030 term. The city noted that municipal decisions shape everyday life, including roads, transit, parks, recreation, libraries, community programs and how neighbourhoods grow.

Election Day voting locations, candidate information and identification requirements are available at mississaugavotes.ca. Questions about voting can be directed to 905-615-VOTE (8683) or election.office@mississauga.ca.