Sameera Ali, First South Asian-Origin Leader, Announces Mayoral Bid for Milton’s 2026 Election: Milton, Canada’s Regional Councillor Sameera Ali has officially entered the mayoral race for Milton’s 2026 municipal election, announcing her candidacy in a Facebook post on December 4th. If elected, Ali would become the first South Asian “Desi” Muslim woman to hold the mayoral position in Milton — a historic milestone reflecting the town’s growing diversity. After years of service, she says the community now needs leadership that is “practical, steady, and results-driven.”
A Community Shaped by Rapid Growth
Milton is one of the fastest-growing communities in Canada, and Ali noted that with growth comes real challenges — rising costs, housing demands, traffic congestion, and the need for reliable municipal services. “As a mother raising my family here in Milton, I understand the challenges we are facing,” she said.
Experience Rooted in Public Service
Since November 2022, Ali has served as Halton Regional Councillor, collaborating across municipalities to influence decisions related to infrastructure, sustainability, social services, and public health. She currently serves as:
- Vice President, Halton Community Housing Corporation Board
- Director, Halton Waste Management Board
- Director, Milton Community Fund Advisory Board
She also serves as a Director on the Halton Police Board, advocating for accountability, transparency, and equity-focused policing, and is a Director for Conservation Halton, contributing to climate resilience and responsible planning.
Before public office, Ali spent more than a decade working in digital communications, strategic media, and community outreach.
“Made in Milton” Platform
Drawing from two years of extensive consultations, Ali will soon introduce her “Made in Milton” platform. Her priorities include:
- Building infrastructure that keeps pace with Milton’s growth
- Improving local services and reducing delays
- Supporting job creation and local business investment
- Keeping taxes low through efficiency and innovation
- Ensuring Milton works for everyone — urban, rural, new and long-time residents
Her approach emphasizes affordability, sustainability, and accountability.
Milton’s Leadership at a Turning Point
Milton has been led by Mayor Gord Krantz since 1980, making him the longest-serving mayor in Canada. In the 2022 election, Krantz narrowly secured re-election with 11,391 votes (49.51%), while challenger Zee Hamid earned 10,396 votes (45.18%). Krantz has not announced whether he will seek another term.
Looking Toward 2026
The municipal election will take place on Monday, October 26, 2026.
Ali says her goal is to lead with integrity, transparency, and collaboration:
“It is time to build a stronger, smarter, more connected Milton — together.”
