Province provides criteria and opens application process for full-time, appointed County of Simcoe Head of Council
Midhurst/June 30, 2026 – The Government of Ontario has opened the application process for the County of Simcoe Head of Council (currently known as ‘Warden/County Chair’) with applications due by July 13, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
The Head of Council plays an important leadership role. As outlined by the Province, Heads of Council help guide municipal priorities, chair Council meetings, represent the region at official events, and support coordination among local municipalities. They help ensure decisions are carried out and that local government remains accountable and transparent.
The Province’s Public Appointments Secretariat is now accepting applications for this provincial appointment. To be considered, applicants must meet the eligibility requirements under the Municipal Act, 2001, including being eligible to vote in a lower‑tier municipality within the County of Simcoe.
Role of the Head of Council
- Leads County Council and supports strategic direction
- Chairs Council meetings and guides decision‑making
- Represents the County at regional and provincial events
- Supports collaboration across all lower‑tier municipalities
- Promotes accountability in local government
Application Information
Qualified individuals are encouraged to review the posting and apply through the Province’s Public Appointments Secretariat.
For more information or to apply:
The appointment of a full-time Head of Council became legislation as part of the Better Regional Governance Act, 2026, passed by the Ontario Government on May 7, 2026. Prior to this Provincial change the role of the Head of Council was selected by County Council from among their 32 members. The Act also reduced the size of County Council from 32 to 17 (16 Mayors and a full-time Head of Council).
About the County of Simcoe
County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.
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Collin Matanowitsch
Manager, Public Relations
County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department
705-734-8386 (mobile)
Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca
Jennifer Straw
Senior Public Relations Consultant
County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department
705-790-5979 (mobile)
Jennifer.Straw@simcoe.ca