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The municipal election is Oct. 26, 2026. 

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October 26, 2026

Town of Gravenhurst Municipal Election

Candidate Profiles

Candidate Profiles

DISCLAIMER: Profile information was prepared and submitted by the respective candidate. The Town of Gravenhurst does not endorse or verify any candidate’s platform, views, statements, or perspectives.

Mayor Candidates

Let’s build on the progress made the past four years. For sixteen years I have been committed to Gravenhurst. First as a Ward Councillor, a District Councillor and the last four as Mayor. I am Chair of Muskoka Engineering and Public Works committee, I have served on the BIA, the Library Board, Trails Committee, Muskoka Tourism, the OPP Detachment Board, the Muskoka Indigenous Leadership Table and the Emergency Management Program Team. I have built trust and relationships with colleagues, staff and key community partners and stakeholders.


Gravenhurst has seen tremendous success in attracting residential development, expanded transportation services and soon will be able to celebrate the opening of Gravenhurst Health Hub. Significant business investment include, Winhara Rd, Bethune Drive and Highway 11, with more exciting things to come, including the return of Ontario Northland train service.

Council accountability, transparency and improved communication were promises made and kept. The foundation for a vibrant downtown has been laid, we can’t stop now. There is simply no one more equipped to lead Gravenhurst through these uncertain times. Let’s keep the momentum going.

Jo Morphy, twice-elected Town Councillor and past President of the Muskoka Bay Property Owners Association (MBPOA), has diligently served the Town of Gravenhurst for close to a decade. Jo’s background in business, her analytical mind, and innate desire to add value have uniquely prepared her to create opportunities for the Town of Gravenhurst. 

Her optimistic outlook, combined with strong regional relationships and a desire to build a vibrant community for all who live within the Gateway to Muskoka provides an excellent catalyst for revitalizing the heart of Gravenhurst. 

A loving wife, mother, and grandmother, Jo has dedicated herself to family and the preservation of treasured traditions. The same steadfast care and purposeful approach she applies in her home life extends beyond the walls of her Gravenhurst home and into to her community.

Jo takes the concerns of her community seriously and puts her hand to the plow with strong, accountable leadership and proven stewardship of Gravenhurst’s resources. Jo cares deeply about the lakes and their ecosystems, and knows that protecting the lakes means protecting the Town.

Jo and her husband Geoff live in Gravenhurst, along with their Golden Retriever, Indy.

Jeff Watson is a Mayor candidate for Gravenhurst. He brings 45 years of business, municipal, fire service, and community leadership to his candidacy. Jeff served three terms on Gravenhurst Council, including Deputy Mayor (2010-2018), Chair of corporate services with responsibility for financial oversight and municipal operations.

For 32 1/2 years Jeff and his family owned and operated the two Tim Hortons in Gravenhurst creating jobs, developing people, navigating major labour and business challenges, and consistently reinvesting in the community through partnerships and fundraising.

A graduate of the Ontario Fire College, Jeff served eight years with the Fire Department. He was an Associate Instructor at the College mentoring and training firefighters from across Ontario.

His governance experience includes a recent appointed to the South Muskoka Hospital Foundation Board. Past boards include Gravenhurst Hydro, Chamber of Commerce, Muskoka, tourism, Windermere Golf Club, Muskoka Bay Club, Burlington Springs Golf Club and the Tim Hortons Advisory Board. Jeff has also been a member of the Professional Officiant Association of Ontario for 11 years.

Jeff understands Gravenhurst. It’s people, it’s opportunities and it’s challenges. He brings proven leadership business experience and a strong commitment to the community he has called home for over 35 years.

Experienced Community Leadership

Gravenhurst has greater potential, and I believe we have the courage to reach it.

This town is more than the place I live. It's a community of people who look out for one another, who volunteer, build businesses, raise families, care for our lakes and forests, and step forward when neighbours are in need. 

That spirit is what motivates me.

Throughout my career, I've built a reputation for helping organizations work better and reach their full potential. I've brought that same commitment to my community, volunteering, listening, asking questions, bringing people together, and finding practical ways to help our community thrive.

Gravenhurst is growing, and with growth comes both opportunity and responsibility: excellence in municipal service, strong tax stewardship, thoughtful planning, infrastructure investment, a bold approach to housing, economic opportunity, and primary healthcare for all, while protecting the character and natural beauty that make this town so special.

We've done remarkable things before. 

The decisions we make today will shape the future for generations to come, affecting our neighbours, families, businesses, visitors, and the broader Muskoka economy.

Ward 1 Candidates

My name is Gordie Merton, and I’m running to represent Ward 1. For those who know me, you know what I can accomplish without a seat on Council and you’ve inspired what we can build together with one. To those I haven't met yet, I ask for you to give me a chance on council to prove my worth to you.

As a 5th-generation GHS graduate, local small business owner, and active volunteer with community groups across town and in our region I know firsthand what makes Gravenhurst special. I believe Ward 1 needs a down-to-earth and accessible voice at the table. If elected, my top priorities will be:

Council Accountability: Bringing real transparency, proactive updates and a responsive councillor who answers your call and communicates with you.

Core Infrastructure: Protecting essential municipal services, road safety, sidewalks and the health of our lakes.

Balanced Growth: Supporting local entrepreneurs and responsible and sustainable development while protecting Gravenhurst’s environment and natural beauty.

I bring no big political promises just hard work, common sense, lived experience and a passion for helping our community.

I want Gravenhurst to thrive. Supporting the community and local businesses are my priorities.

I bring more than 40 years helping organizations grow, build partnerships and deliver results. I am especially skilled in business development and building meaningful partnerships that support shared growth.

This past 4 years, I have also proudly served our community on the Awards committee, Grants committee, and served as a Board of Trustee for the Gravenhurst Library.

My platform:

Make Gravenhurst a vibrant year-round destination
o Build stronger links between downtown, Muskoka Wharf, local and south end business
o Celebrate and strengthen community identity
o Expand industry, tourism, and business events

Refresh Downtown Appeal
o Attract new businesses
o Support the resurgence of the Business Improvement Area (BIA)
o Support year-round employment

Community Care
o Concerns about streets, snow clearing and garbage collection
o Support improvements to the Health Hub
o Strengthen relationships with community care partners
o Promote attainable housing

Environmental Protection and Good Governance
o Keep Gravenhurst safe
o Support Muskoka Conservancy
o Fire prevention
o Prioritize sustainable infrastructure

I will listen, represent you, and be your voice!

Supporting Our Community • Planning Our Future

Elizabeth supports responsible growth that strengthens our economy and plans for the future while preserving the character, environment, and quality of life that make Gravenhurst special. 

Platform Pillars:

  1. Responsible and Collaborative Leadership
    Growth with purpose. Development with responsibility. Decisions with the long-term  interests of Gravenhurst in mind. Good governance creates great communities.

  2. A Thriving Gravenhurst
    Building a thriving Gravenhurst where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

  3. Environmental Stewardship & Waterfront Protection
    Protecting our lakes, natural environment, and the quality of life we cherish.

Elizabeth’s 25 years of experience in governance, strategic planning, financial management, policy development and advocacy has taught her how to listen, bring people together, navigate complex issues, manage risk, ask difficult questions, turn strategy to action, and make decisions with the long term in mind.

Elizabeth’s priorities:

  • a vibrant year-round downtown
  • a waterfront that is economically dynamic and environmentally protected
  • affordable housing
  • increased opportunities for youth
  • enriched arts & culture experiences
  • safe sidewalks, adequate crossings, and improved accessibility for citizens with mobility limitations
  • regular communication through quarterly Ward 1 community forums and a monthly “What’s New” e-newsletter
  • meaningful relationships with Muskoka’s Indigenous communities

My family moved to Gravenhurst in 1972 when I was nine. I grew up, worked, bought my first house and raised my family here. My connection here is strong. My business and work history and my eight years of experience as a department head, the Manager of the Gravenhurst Opera House, provide the foundational skills I need to succeed as your voice on Council. My life here provides my connection, my commitment, and my love of the people here.

My vision of Gravenhurst is this: A small town where everyone has a voice, a town where shared prosperity and democratic governance is the rule. The town that I see has no crime, drug abuse or homelessness and has respect for the natural beauty surrounding us. In the Gravenhurst that I see, small businesses and family businesses are top priority and will receive my support. Working people and people who are struggling will receive my support. Yes, I am an unapologetic idealist.

My father said "If one sets their sights low they will likely miss the target. Always shoot for the moon." Vote for Brad Rundle in ward 1 and let's shoot for the moon.

My name is Erin Gauthier, and I am running for Councillor of Ward 1. I believe in Gravenhurst and in its potential to become an even stronger, more vibrant community.

I have called Gravenhurst home for over 10 years. My husband's family has deep roots here, including helping build a local subdivision.

I am a mother of 3 wonderful children. I bring 19 years of experience as a Contracts Administrator and 5 years working as a Front-line Crisis Counsellor supporting women and families affected by domestic violence. My work has taught me to listen without judgement, lead with compassion and focus on positive solutions.

As the youngest of 13 children, I have learned early the importance of family, generosity, humour and looking out for one another. Losing my mother to cancer reinforced how precious life and people are.
My goals are to create more affordable housing for full-time residents, support local businesses, revitalize the downtown, improve roads and infrastructure and promote opportunities for connection and recreation.

I don't want to simply talk about what needs to change. I want to show up, listen, work hard and walk the walk.

Your support, ideas and conversation are welcomed and appreciated.

Ward 2 Candidates

Stephen Sims: Knows Gravenhurst--Knows the Issues--Knows the Job

20+ years. Protecting Lake Health as volunteer water-tester in Gravenhurst.
I do more than just say I care about our lakes: I take action.

13 years leading the Lakeshore Drive Community Association, helping to build a strong, resilient community.

10 years, full-time Ward 2 resident.

6 years, Board of Directors, MLA, advocating for responsible development. 

5 generations of Sims family in Gravenhurst

2022–present Community member, Gravenhurst Committee of Adjustment

29 years, Professor of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University. A career making difficult decisions, managing people and resources, and preparing next generations of professionals.

Principles Worth Standing Up For
Whether Gravenhurst is your home all year or the place your family returns to every summer, we all have a stake in its future.
Families have invested their savings, their time and their memories in Muskoka.
·      Protect the waterfront.
·      Protect neighbourhood character.
·      Maintain quality municipal services.
·      Keep taxes under control.
·      Support responsible development.
·     Transparency in how decisions are made and priorities set. Road upkeep? Snow clearing?
·   Think beyond today. Ensure that Gravenhurst prospers

N/A

Hello. My name is David Kellam. l have grown up and lived in Ward 2 since the age of five years old and full time since 2010. I have owned my home on the water for 36 years and my daughter went to Gravenhurst High School. I’m running for Ward 2 Councillor to listen to my fellow residents and act on their behalf at Town Council. I will be responsive to your inquiries and be available to help if needed. A strong connection to our community is my main goal and I’m here for you. Vote Kellam and you will be happy you did. I walk the talk not your typical politician. Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you.

Ward 3 Candidates

Carol Ann LeMoine is running for Ward 3 Councillor in Gravenhurst's 2026 municipal election. A lifelong Morrison Lake cottager, she made the lake her year-round home two years ago, continuing a family connection that spans generations; her grandfather was among the lake's original cottagers, and it is where she met her husband of 38 years and raised their children.

Carol Ann brings 25 years of experience in education, having served as a classroom teacher, math consultant, vice-principal, and principal. Alongside her career, she has been active on professional associations, parent councils, and nonprofit organizations. She has served as conference president and board director with the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, and as an executive member of the Morrison Lake Ratepayers Association, bringing direct experience in local lake stewardship to this campaign.

If elected, Carol Ann's priorities for Ward 3 include protecting local lakes and rivers, advocating for reliable infrastructure, supporting a thriving downtown and year-round economy, and ensuring the ward works for everyone who calls it home.

Carol Ann is committed to representing Ward 3 with the same values that have guided her career: listening, leadership, and service.

Larry is a resident of Ward 3, where he has resided since 2012. A career firefighter (44 years) and police officer (20 years), Larry served as Fire Chief in Gravenhurst from 2012 through 2021. During that time, he was a member of the Town's Senior Management Team and interacted with other senior Town administrators and members of Council on a regular basis, building corporate short-term and long-term budgets and contributing to the management of many issues affecting the community.

He has worn many hats as a lifelong volunteer and currently serves with Team Rubicon, Samaritan's Purse, and Boots on the Ground in this capacity. He continues to be a strong advocate for the homeless, having served on the Board of Directors for Supportive Housing of Waterloo. In addition to working with a variety of municipal Councils over his career, Larry has additional political and Board experience, including having worked with the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs, Crimestoppers, and the CMHA Muskoka/Parry Sound branch.

Not surprisingly, he is an outdoors enthusiast, and he lives by the mantra - "Deeds Speak". He lists perseverance, integrity, and the belief in listening first as critical success factors in his life and career.

Ward 4 Candidate (Acclaimed)

Acclaimed

Ward 5 Candidates

Curious, creative, and strategic, I will bring a unique blend of analytical thinking, municipal expertise, and resourcefulness to Gravenhurst Council.

My roots here stretch back to 1973: I am a proud graduate of Ryde Public School and Gravenhurst High School. As a local resident, daughter of a Gravenhurst senior, and mother to downtown small-business entrepreneurs (Well Fed), I see our daily challenges firsthand, from the dinner table to the storefront to the doctor’s office and even on the roads in between.

With 26 years of municipal experience in economic development, public transit, environmental stewardship, and supporting vulnerable families, I know how to navigate government systems and deliver results.

My vision for Ward 5 focuses on five key priorities:

  • Collaborative & Transparent Governance
  • Environmental Stewardship & Lake Health
  • Responsible Growth & Fiscal Accountability
  • Community Health, Safety & Wellbeing
  • A Vibrant Downtown & Strong Local Economy

I am running for Council to ensure Gravenhurst remains a place where every generation can find belonging and the opportunity to thrive. I will serve by listening, learning, and making evidence-based decisions with future generations in mind. Together, we can build a community we are all proud to call home.

N/A

District Councillor Candidates

Penny Varney has been Ward 1 Councillor for the past 8 years. She has lived in Gravenhurst for 45 years, owned her own business - Penny Varney Jewellery Gallery and Gifts for 15 years and she and her husband owned Gravenhurst Pharmacy for 20 years. She started the Gravenhurst Breakfast program at the highschool and the Gravenhurst Women’s Centre. She started the Gravenhurst Arts at the Albion Co- Op gallery which lasted 14 years. She helped bring the ladder truck to Gravenhurst for the fire department. She is the council representative for the Accessibility Committee and has sat on the BIA and Chamber boards. Her past 8 years on council have helped her understand the needs of the people. Waste management, property taxes, and environmental sustainability are top criteria. Of course at the very top is housing and the cost of houses. A lot of these are dealt with at the district level. That is why I have put my name forward work for Gravenhurst at the District level.

Jaden Hollingshead was born and raised in Muskoka and has called Gravenhurst home for more than five years, where he lives with his wife and son.

He currently serves as Executive Director of the Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce, a role he has held for three years, and previously owned a marketing agency that worked with small businesses across the region. He also sits on the board of the Muskoka Community Land Trust, which works to create permanently affordable housing in Muskoka.

His priorities are housing that people who work here can actually afford, a vibrant downtown that stays busy year-round, protecting the lakes and forests that make this place what it is, and making sure Gravenhurst's voice carries weight at both the Town and District tables.

He believes local government works best when residents can see what and why something is being decided.

I am your current Ward 5 Councillor and Alternate District Councillor. I have enjoyed my first term of Council and working directly with the residents of Gravenhurst on issues that matter. I'm passionate about waste diversion strategies and housing initiatives for those in the deepest need, which is why I'm seeking your vote for District Council in this election. There is still work to do in these areas, and I would be honoured to be your voice at the table to move the dial on these, and other local issues that shape our community.

Erin Strength has lived full-time in Gravenhurst since she was 7 years old and is a graduate of Gravenhurst Public & Gravenhurst High School. Erin worked for a local family businesses as a teenager; spent 25 years as Manager of a pharmacy and currently works in her own business as a seniors assistant. Raising her two children in Gravenhurst, who now reside and contribute to the community, is one of her proudest accomplishments. 

Erin was elected to Council as a Ward Councillor in 2014 and then a District Councillor in 2022 for the current term. Erin has served on the Committee of Adjustment, the Gravenhurst BIA and Community and Planning Services Committee. Erin was a proponent of affordable housing on First St and Pine St in Bracebridge. She has been a steady advocate of the Gravenhurst Health Hub; the Gravenhurst Fire Dept. ladder truck; supported one of the lowest tax levy increases in Muskoka 4 years running and supported clear bags and other garbage & recycling initiatives extending the life of our landfills. 

Erin’s most outstanding quality has been continual encouragement for her constituents in the Gravenhurst community and its unique standing as a great place to live in Muskoka.

Sandy Cairns: Experienced Leadership and Community Commitment. Working for a Stronger Muskoka.

I have more than 26 years of municipal service and experience as well as a lifetime of community commitment. I’ve always been passionate about serving my community and for more than two decades I have had the privilege of serving multiple terms as a Gravenhurst Councillor and more recently, as a Muskoka District Councillor.

I’ve found my niche serving on the Health Services Committee and Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, as Vice Chair. My mission has been to actively move the Gravenhurst Health Hub forward and I’m focused on initiatives that protect our environment.

For more than 26 years, I have brought experience, knowledge, integrity and a strong sense of responsibility to the decisions that shape our community.

Volunteerism has always been an integral part of my life. My commitment to Gravenhurst and all of Muskoka extends well beyond my role as an elected official.

My approach to leadership is people-centred and collaborative.

I care deeply about Gravenhurst and all of Muskoka and the people who call it home. As always, I am ready to listen, collaborate, advocate and work toward a healthy, inclusive, connected and sustainable Muskoka.

Contact Us

Gravenhurst Votes
Email: elections@gravenhurst.ca