Barrie’s Ward 3 will have a new representative on city council when the next term begins in November.
Ward 3 Coun. Ann-Marie Kungl has announced she will not seek re-election in the 2026 municipal election.
Kungl was first elected in a February 2020 byelection following the election of former Ward 3 councillor Doug Shipley as the MP for Barrie–Springwater–Oro-Medonte in the 2019 federal election.
She later won a full term in the 2022 municipal election.
Kungl told Compass News she decided not to run again so she can focus more on her work with the Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County, where she serves as CEO.
“I have my charity, so I’m going to be focused on that and giving it more time while exploring some other opportunities that I have,” she said.
Kungl said she is proud of her seven years on council, particularly the collaboration among members during the current term.
“It’s great to look back and celebrate what we’ve been able to accomplish in seven years,” she said.
“I think it’s been great that we have dedicated, collaborative members of council.”
Reflecting on lessons learned during her time in office, Kungl said effective leadership requires teamwork and community involvement.
“You don’t do anything on your own,” she said.
“When you have a real understanding of the difference between the federal, provincial and municipal governments, and how a group of 10 councillors and a mayor work together, you learn you actually have a lot of influence.”
“Whether you make it to the council table or not, it’s really important that you stay engaged about what’s happening and what will make an impact. I’m hopeful I’ve encouraged more people to get involved and helped bring that information to the table.”
Three candidates have already registered to run for the Ward 3 seat: Ward 4 Coun. Amy Courser and city residents Bryan Jones and Ben Hughes.
In June 2025, Barrie council approved a new ward boundary map for the 2026 municipal election.
Apart from Ward 9, all wards will have updated boundaries. Ward 4 will move to Barrie’s south end, while Wards 1, 3 and 5 will incorporate newly annexed lands in the city’s north end.
Kungl said she hopes the Ward 3 race attracts strong candidates.
“I’m hoping the race invites a really strong group of candidates,” she said.
“For anyone thinking about running, especially if you’re new, the best advice would be to have conversations, come prepared and understand the commitment. The campaign is a whole different process than being at the council table.”
Barrie voters will head to the polls on Oct. 26, 2026.