Prince Edward County Mayor Won’t Seek Re-Election in 2026

A Leadership Shift in Prince Edward County

© Prince Edward County/The County

Prince Edward County is heading into a meaningful leadership transition this year, as Mayor Steve Ferguson has announced he will not seek re-election in the upcoming municipal vote this October. The decision, shared during a local event earlier t his week, marks the end of nearly eight years in office and opens the door to a new chapter in County governance.

Ferguson was first elected mayor in 2018 and successfully secured a second term in 2022. During that time, he has overseen a period of growth, increased infrastructure pressure, and evolving expectations from both residents and visitors. Like many municipalities, Prince Edward County has had to navigate rising costs, development pressures, and the ongoing challenge of maintaining essential services while planning for the future.

A Milestone Moment: County Road 49

One of the key factors influencing Ferguson’s decision was the progress made on the reconstruction of County Road 49, one of the most important transportation routes in the region. As a primary gateway into Prince Edward County, the road carries significant traffic and plays a major role in tourism, commuting, and overall accessibility.

Securing funding for this project was a major milestone, and Ferguson acknowledged its importance in shaping his decision to step away. For him, reaching this point represented a natural moment to “pass the baton,” suggesting that some of the most critical groundwork of his term had been achieved.

Infrastructure projects of this scale often take years of planning, coordination, and negotiation. Seeing one through to a key stage can feel like completing a major chapter in public office and in this case, it became part of a broader reflection on timing and impact.

A Sense of Completion and Uncertainty Ahead

In speaking about his decision, Ferguson emphasized that it was not driven by a single issue, but rather a combination of factors. At the core was a sense that he had accomplished what he set out to do.

He shared that he feels he has done “about as much as I can” in the role, pointing to both the demands of the position and the realities of continuing for another four-year term. Municipal leadership is increasingly complex, with responsibilities that extend far beyond local decision-making.

Ferguson also pointed to uncertainty stemming from upper levels of government as a consideration. Provincial and federal policies can have a significant impact on municipal planning, funding, and long-term strategy. That uncertainty, he suggested, may be better navigated by a new mayor and council entering with a fresh mandate and perspective.

What This Means for the 2026 Election

With the incumbent stepping aside, the upcoming election becomes an open race for mayor, something that tends to shift the tone and energy of a campaign. Without a sitting mayor seeking re-election, the field is likely to be more competitive, with a broader mix of candidates and ideas.

For Prince Edward County, this comes at a time when several key issues remain front and centre. Infrastructure investment, housing affordability, growth management, and service delivery continue to shape local priorities. The next mayor and council will play a critical role in addressing these challenges and setting the direction for the years ahead.

Looking Ahead

Municipal elections are scheduled for October, and in the coming months, attention will turn to who steps forward to run and what kind of leadership they offer. Some candidates may emerge from within the council, while others may come from outside local government altogether.

Ferguson’s decision doesn’t just mark the end of a term, it signals a transition moment for the County. After two terms in office, he is stepping away at a point he believes is right, both personally and politically.

For residents, this creates an opportunity to reflect on where the County has been and where it should go next.