Municipalities Reform Act 2026

What this bill does

This bill eliminates municipal elections in Bermuda's cities (Hamilton and St. George's) and replaces them with a system where the Minister appoints all mayors and councillors. Current elected officials will serve until May 11, 2026, after which all future municipal leaders will be appointed rather than voted in by residents and businesses.

If passed (voted YES)

• Citizens and businesses will no longer vote for their municipal leaders - the Minister will choose who runs the cities
• Half the councillors will be picked directly by the Minister, while the other half will be chosen from recommendations by a selection committee
• Municipal leaders will serve 2-year terms and can be reappointed or removed by the Minister

If rejected (voted NO)

• Municipal elections continue as they currently work, with residents and business owners voting for their mayors and councillors
• Citizens keep their direct say in choosing who represents them at the city level
• The current election system and voter registration processes remain in place

Who it affects

This affects all residents and business owners in Hamilton and St. George's who currently have voting rights in municipal elections, as well as anyone interested in running for municipal office in the future.