Campaign Finances

Candidates are responsible for keeping records of their financial activities related to their campaign. 

The campaign period begins on the day the Clerk receives your nomination. You may accept contributions or incur campaign expenses during your campaign period only. In most cases, the campaign period will end on Jan. 3, 2023. This is subject to a few exceptions such as withdrawing a campaign or no additional financial activity is expected between voting day and before Jan. 3, 2023.

Candidates must open a bank account specifically for a campaign if any type of monetary contributions are received or expenses incurred. All contributions, must be deposited into the campaign bank account and all expenses must be paid for from the campaign account.

There is a $1,200 limit that applies to contributions from other individuals. The maximum total amount that a contributor can give to candidates in the same jurisdiction (for example, running for the same council or the same school board) is $5,000. A contribution receipt must be issued for every contribution received. Contributions over $25 must be made by cheque, money order or a method of payment that clearly shows where the funds came from. A candidate is required to inform every contributor of the contribution limits. 

Candidates who raise or spend more than $10,000 must have their financial statement audited by a licensed auditor under the Public Accounting Act, 2004 and include the auditor's report when the financial statement is filed.

The Clerk is required to make a public report of candidates who filed financial statement and who did not. The Municipal Elections Act also requires that the City make the Financial Statement available electronically.

On September 15, 2022, St. Catharines, along with all Niagara Region municipalities, held an information session on Candidate Campaign Finances. Please click the following link for a copy of the presentation.