Lakefield Councillor John Boyko announces bid for deputy mayor of Selwyn Township

Lakefield Councillor John Boyko has announced he is running for deputy mayor of Selwyn Township in the upcoming municipal election.

Boyko shared the announcement on social media on Thursday, July 9, stating that his priorities include affordability, improved citizen engagement, municipal service delivery and access to a family doctor.

If elected, Boyko would serve on both Selwyn Township Council and Peterborough County Council. In his announcement, he said his previous experience serving on Peterborough County Council as Lakefield's Deputy Reeve prior to amalgamation provided him with an understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing the county.

Lakefield Councillor John Boyko has announced he is seeking election as Selwyn Township's deputy mayor in the 2026 municipal election. (Photo: John Boyko)

Boyko, a retired educator and administrator, said he has volunteered with a number of community organizations and currently serves on the boards of the Otonabee Region Conservation Authority, Morton Medical Centre and the Peterborough Police Service as the Lakefield liaison. He also serves as board chair of the Lakefield Literary Festival.

In his statement, Boyko said he believes municipal politics is built on teamwork, listening to residents, respecting differing opinions and making fact-based decisions.

The announcement marks the latest addition to the field of candidates for Selwyn Township's 2026 municipal election.

Current Deputy Mayor Ron Black has announced he is seeking election as mayor. As of the time of publication, incumbent Mayor Sherry Senis has not announced whether she will seek re-election.

Michael Barrett has announced his candidacy for Lakefield Ward Councillor (Ward 30), while Mary Coulas is seeking re-election as Ennismore Ward Councillor (Ward 10). As of July 9, 2026, no candidates have announced for Smith Ward Councillor (Ward 20).

The deadline to file nomination papers is Friday, August 21, 2026. Nomination papers may be filed at the Selwyn Township municipal office from May 1 to August 20 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., and on August 21 between 8:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

The municipal election will take place on October 26, 2026.