County Council approves governance changes and Head of Council

Midhurst/August 12, 2026 – The County of Simcoe has approved a series of governance and procedural changes that will support the transition to a new Council structure beginning with the 2026-2030 term of Council and align with changes made by the Province’s Better Regional Governance Act,2026.

The changes position the County for a smooth transition to a reduced 17-member Council with an appointed Head of Council following the upcoming municipal election, while ensuring effective and responsive governance for residents across the County.

Among the key changes approved by Council is the renaming of the County’s Head of Council position from Warden (which has been in place since 1843) to County Chair, effective November 15, 2026, at the start of the next term of Council.

The title change follows confirmation from the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing that the Province intends to appoint the County’s Head of Council for the upcoming term through a provincial recruitment process. This title aligns with other regional governments in Ontario, which were also included with the County in changes made by the Province.

As part of the governance transition, Council also approved other changes including the elimination of the Deputy Warden position, changes to certain Committees of Council, and adjustments to Committee of the Whole representation from the Cities of Barrie and Orillia to align with the new council composition and existing shared service agreements.

An updated Procedure By-law is expected to be brought to Council in September to formally incorporate the approved governance changes as part of the transition.

To view the full report that contained recommendations supported by Council, please visit simcoe.ca

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

Brandon Maron
Public Relations Consultant
County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department
705-903-7882 (mobile)
Brandon.Maron@simcoe.ca