Could you be the next District of Muskoka Chair?

A composite image of Minister. Rob Flack and current chair of the District Municipality of Muskoka, Jeff Lehman.

With a few simple clicks, you can now apply for the job of one of the most important political positions in the region.

As of June 29, applications for the position of chair of the District Municipality of Muskoka can be submitted online on the Government of Ontario’s website.

A recent letter written to Muskoka council from Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Rob Flack, has asked council to share the posting on their website as well.

“I would appreciate your assistance in posting this information on the municipality’s website outlining the appointment process, timelines, the mandatory eligibility criteria and desired skills and competencies for the heads of council in the in-scope-upper-tier municipalities,” Flack said in his letter, dated for June 29.

Council obliged his request, updating the 2026 Municipal Election section of the municipality’s website with the information as requested.

The letter was subject to discussion at a special council meeting on Monday.

Excusing himself from the discussion to avoid a conflict of interest, was current District Chair Jeff Lehman.

Unlike the positions of councillor and mayor that are voted on by members of the public, historically, the chair was elected by members of regional council.

Lehman was voted in as chair in 2022, following a 12-year tenure as the Mayor of Barrie.

However, under the Better Regional Governance Act 2026, the province now has the power to appoint the chair, rather than leave it up to a council vote and his letter to council, Flack said he was “writing to advise Muskoka District council of my intention under section 218.1 of the Municipal Act, to appoint the next head of council.”

During Monday’s discussion, members of council raised questions about transparency and process, at which point the town’s chief administrative officer offered to relay their questions back to the office of Flack.

In his letter to council, Flack encouraged the asking of questions.

“We are committed to working collaboratively with the district throughout this process and provide you with further details as we work to finalize the appointment,” Flack said.

Applications for the position remain open until Mon., July 13.