Esquimalt reminds voters mail-in ballots are available to those who need them

The Township of Esquimalt is reminding eligible local voters that mail-in ballots are available to them if they need one. 

The 2026 local general election will take place on Saturday, October 17th; however, there are many ways to cast a vote for people who will be unavailable that day. 

In an effort to allow every eligible voter to cast a ballot in the local election, Esquimalt wants to ensure that voting is accessible, convenient and inclusive for all with mail-in ballots.

Any eligible resident elector or non-resident property elector may request one via the Township’s website. 

So long as mail ballots are properly completed and received by 8 p.m. on October 17th, they will be securely processed and included in the official ballot count on election day.

Mail ballot applications can be found online here, or at the Esquimalt Municipal Hall, located at 1229 Esquimalt Road.

“We want to make it absolutely clear: mail ballots are for everyone,” said the Township’s Chief Election Officer. 

“Whether you’re travelling, have mobility considerations, prefer to vote from home, or simply appreciate the convenience, you can vote by mail—and your vote will be counted.”

Mayor Barbara Desjardins noted the importance of broad and inclusive access to voting in order to allow everyone to have their voice heard. 

“By making mail ballots available to every voter, we’re ensuring that participation in our local democracy is as easy and flexible as possible,” said Desjardins. 

“Your vote matters and no matter how you vote, in person or by mail, it will be counted.”

In addition to mail-in ballots, voters who need assistance or accommodation will have options at the voting place to mark and cast their ballot privately and securely. 

There will be purpose-designed ballot-marking devices for those who need them, curbside voting or voters will be able to ask for personal assistance from a voting official.

Furthermore, there are two advance voting days for Esquimalt’s race on October 7th and 14th before the general voting day on October 17th. 

For advance voting, polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Esquimalt Recreation Centre, located at 527 Esquimalt Road.

Candidates have until 4 p.m. on Friday, September 11th to be nominated. Following the closure of the nominations period, the official list of candidates will be posted on the township’s website.  

Mail-in ballots are handled by each individual municipality. For the rest of Greater Victoria, voters can contact their municipal government for information on mail ballots or advance polling days.