Muskoka Welcomes New District Chair and 2026–2030 District Council

The announcement comes as Muskoka prepares to welcome its newly elected District Council for the 2026–2030 term, following the October 26 municipal election. 

Introducing Muskoka's New District Chair 

Scott Aitchison brings extensive municipal and federal government experience to the role of District Chair, returning to the District Council table, where he began his political career, at the age of 21. 

Aitchison previously served as Deputy Mayor and Mayor of Huntsville before being elected as the Member of Parliament for Parry Sound–Muskoka in 2019. He announced his decision to resign his seat in Parliament at the end of the fall sitting. 

Throughout his career, Aitchison has gained experience in municipal governance, housing, land-use planning and infrastructure, as well as in the private sector. 

As District Chair, Aitchison will lead District Council and work with elected representatives from Muskoka's six Area Municipalities to guide decisions on important services, programs and community priorities. 

A New Process for Selecting District Chair 

The process for selecting Muskoka's District Chair has changed for the 2026–2030 term. Under Ontario's Better Regional Governance Act, 2026, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing may appoint the District Chair following a municipal election. Previously, the Chair was selected by members of District Council.  

The new Chair will also have additional powers and duties under Ontario’s strong chair framework. These powers are intended to support provincial and municipal priorities, including housing and infrastructure. 

District Council will continue to represent Muskoka's communities and play an important role in decisions affecting residents. 

Welcoming the 2026–2030 District Council 

Following the October 26 municipal election, representatives from Muskoka's six Area Municipalities will form the new District Council. 

District Council has 23 members, including the District Chair, six Area Municipal Mayors and 16 District Councillors who also serve on their local municipal councils. 

Together, they represent residents across Muskoka and make decisions about important District services and programs. 

Visit www.muskoka.on.ca for a full list of the 2026-2030 District Councillors.  

Looking Ahead to the New Term 

The new Council term begins Nov. 15, 2026, with an inaugural District Council meeting to be scheduled in early December 2026.

 The District of Muskoka is made up of six area municipalities and is responsible for delivering critical public services and programs to residents in our community. Visit our website at www.muskoka.on.ca. For updates by email, subscribe to News Updates on our website.

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