Clarington’s 2026 municipal election has changed the people who will represent Newcastle and Ward 4 during the next four years. The results are now official, and the new council will be sworn in on November 23, 2026.
For residents, the most useful question is not simply who won. It is which decisions the new council will influence, which representative handles each level of local government, and how people in Newcastle can follow the work that comes next.
Who was elected in Clarington?
The Municipality of Clarington certified the following council for the 2026 to 2030 term:
- Mayor: Tom Dingwall
- Regional Councillor, Wards 1 and 2: Granville Anderson
- Regional Councillor, Wards 3 and 4: Willie Woo
- Local Councillor, Ward 1: Joe Neal
- Local Councillor, Ward 2: Kathleen Flynn
- Local Councillor, Ward 3: Corinna Traill
- Local Councillor, Ward 4: Denise Robinson
For Newcastle, two changes stand out. Tom Dingwall succeeds Adrian Foster as mayor, and Denise Robinson succeeds Margaret Zwart as the local councillor for Ward 4. Willie Woo continues as the regional councillor representing Wards 3 and 4.
What each representative does
Clarington has a two tier municipal system. The local municipality and the Region of Durham are responsible for different services, although some responsibilities connect across both levels.
The Ward 4 local councillor represents Ward 4 residents on Clarington Council. The regional councillor for Wards 3 and 4 sits on both Clarington Council and Durham Regional Council. The mayor is elected across Clarington and also serves at the regional level.
Clarington is responsible for services such as local roads, snow clearing, fire services, parks and recreation, libraries, bylaw enforcement, strategic land use and tax collection. Durham Region is responsible for services that include water and sewer systems, regional roads, transit, waste collection, police, public health and affordable housing.
What Newcastle residents should watch
Growth and development
Newcastle continues to grow. Development applications, subdivision planning, housing mix, density and infrastructure capacity will remain important local issues. Clarington’s Planning and Development Committee reviews planning matters and hosts public meetings required under the Planning Act.
Roads, traffic and infrastructure
Residents often experience government through roads, intersections, snow clearing, construction and traffic. Some roads are municipal and others are regional, so the correct point of contact can depend on the location. The local and regional representatives for Ward 4 can help residents identify the responsible department and raise broader concerns through council.
Property taxes and municipal services
Council establishes the local tax levy and decides how municipal resources are allocated. Budget discussions affect service levels, capital projects and the municipal portion of the property tax bill. Residents can review budget documents and meeting agendas before decisions are made.
The waterfront and community spaces
Newcastle’s waterfront, parks, trails and natural areas are central to the community’s identity. Future decisions involving recreation, access, environmental protection and nearby development will be worth following closely.
Turnout increased, but most eligible residents did not vote
Clarington reported voter turnout of 34 per cent. A total of 29,520 of 86,879 eligible voters cast a ballot. That was higher than the 28 per cent turnout recorded in 2022.
The municipality also reported that 95.7 per cent of voters used an online device, while 4.3 per cent voted by telephone. This was Clarington’s second municipal election conducted through internet and telephone voting.
How to follow the new council
Council and committee meetings are open to the public. Clarington posts meeting dates, agendas, staff reports, minutes and video through its council meeting calendar. Regular agendas are normally posted by noon on the Friday before a meeting.
Residents can also submit correspondence or register as a delegation. A delegation is an opportunity to speak directly to council or a committee about a request or concern. Registration deadlines vary depending on the meeting and whether the issue is already on the agenda.
Local elections decide who has a seat at the table, but the work that affects Newcastle happens throughout the term. Reading agendas, watching key meetings and participating early in public consultations are practical ways to stay involved.
Official resources: Clarington’s certified 2026 election announcement, Mayor and Council, Municipal responsibilities and delegation information.
Thinking about buying or selling in Port of Newcastle or Clarington?
Brandon Hebert
Realtor · The Hebert Group · Port of Newcastle & Clarington
Written by Brandon Hebert · The Hebert Group · Port of Newcastle Real Estate Specialist
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