When, where, and how to vote in the biggest by-election in Canadian history


By Harout Manougian

On Monday, June 26, 2023, Torontonians will take part in the biggest by-election in Canadian history as they elect a new mayor. While by-elections have historically had lower voter turnout than general elections, they have also been opportunities for Toronto Armenians to demonstrate their engagement in the political process and reward candidates with outstanding records on human rights issues. The Armenian National Committee of Toronto (ANCT) is endorsing Josh Matlow in this election.

Who can vote?
All Toronto residents who are Canadian citizens and 18 or older can vote in the by-election. In addition, those who typically live outside Toronto, but either own or rent property within the City of Toronto, are also eligible to vote.

When to vote?
It is highly recommended to vote in the Advanced Polls, well ahead of Election Day. Advanced Voting will take place June 8-13, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. daily. This period includes the weekend of June 10 and 11. It is typically much easier to take some time on the weekend to go to the Advanced Poll, than it is to rush after work on Election Day, which is a Monday.

Where to vote?
During the Advanced Voting from June 8 to 13, eligible voters can vote at any Advanced Voting location; it does not have to be the location closest to their home. There are 50 Advanced Voting locations listed on the city of Toronto’s elections website: toronto.ca/city-government/elections.


The closest Advanced Voting locations to the Armenian Community Centre/St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church are:

  • Ellesmere Community Centre, 20 Canadian Rd, Scarborough, ON
  • Stephen Leacock Seniors Community Centre, 2520 Birchmount Rd, Scarborough, ON
  • Oriole Community Centre, 2975 Don Mills Rd, North York, ON
  • Broadlands Community Centre, 19 Castlegrove Blvd, North York, ON

The closest Advanced Voting locations to the Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church are:

  • Centennial Recreation Centre, 1967 Ellesmere Rd, Scarborough, ON
  • Heron Park Community Centre, 292 Manse Rd, Scarborough, ON
  • Malvern Recreation Centre, 30 Sewells Rd, Scarborough, ON
  • Milliken Park Community Recreation Centre, 4325 McCowan Rd, Scarborough, ON

The closest Advanced Voting locations to the St. Gregory Armenian Catholic Church are:

  • Edithvale Community Centre, 131 Finch Ave W, North York, ON
  • Oriole Community Centre, 2975 Don Mills Rd, North York, ON
  • Armour Heights Community Centre, 2140 Avenue Rd, North York, ON
  • St Bonaventure’s Church, 1300 Leslie St, North York, ON

On Election Day, however, you can only vote at the location printed on your Voter Information Card. If you did not receive a VIC or lost it, you can look up the location here (or email anct@anctoronto.org with your address).

How to vote?
You only need one piece of ID that includes both your name and address, to vote. It can be a driver’s licence, bank statement, utility bill, rental agreement, mortgage bill, tax form, or any other official paperwork. The deadlines for mail-in voting or appointing a proxy have passed; therefore, those who did not apply for alternative voting arrangements must vote in person.