Data shows recent election was comparable to 2014 election

Data from the October 23 election reveals that despite the change in number of Councillors, new ward boundaries and an electronic voting platform, the election produced very similar results as the last election in 2014.

“We saw the voting turnout in Kawartha Lakes of 38% slightly beat the provincial average of 37.5%. All municipalities would like to see a higher voting turnout, but we’re seeing a steady trend of less than half of qualified electors casting their vote,” commented City Clerk, Cathie Ritchie.

Non-residents (seasonal residents) represent 20% of all eligible voters in Kawartha Lakes. Only 20% of non-residents voted compared to 42% of residents. This is one reason why turnout is traditionally low in the municipal election in comparison to provincial and federal elections.

There was a clear preference for online voting (78%) as opposed to telephone voting (16%), with the minority of voters (6%) preferring to vote on a tablet either at a Municipal Service Centre, a library or a long-term care home.

The age group that had the highest voter turnout was 70-79 year olds (54% turnout), followed closely by 60-69 year olds (50% turnout). Only 22% of eligible voters aged 18-29 voted. In total, 25,280 votes were cast in the election out of a total 66,441 eligible voters.

The busiest voting day was October 22, the original Election Day, with 5375 ballots cast. In the 24 hour extension period, an additional 2730 votes were cast.

“The technical issue with our voting system, despite having a negative impact on candidates and some voters, may have had a silver lining. Last minute voters were given an extra 24 hours, ensuring everyone had an opportunity to vote,” said Cathie Ritchie.

Additional statistics on the election are available at on the City’s website.