Orla Johnston · Town and Regional Councillor · Ward 5
Residents deserve to see the real trade-offs before decisions are made — not after.
New development should strengthen our community and make our future better.
Use proven technology to improve services — not simply add bureaucracy.
Accessible before the election. Accountable after it.
Growth should improve our community — not overwhelm it.
Orla holds a degree in Urban Development, has managed corporate budgets over $500 million at Panasonic, Bell Mobility and Qualcomm, and runs an Oakville wholesale distribution business representing more than 30 consumer brands. Through two decades with the Oakville Chamber of Commerce — including a term as Chair — she has worked alongside residents and small businesses on the issues shaping this town.
20+
Years in Oakville business
30+
Consumer brands represented
$500M
Vendor budget managed
20
Years with the Chamber
Clear positions, plainly stated — so you know exactly what you are voting for.
“Residents deserve to see the real trade-offs before decisions are made — not after.”
I will advocate for plain-language impact summaries ahead of major development votes and hold open community Q&A sessions so residents can understand the implications before Council decides.
Understand the decision before the vote.
“New development should strengthen our community — and make our future better.”
Growth can bring housing, investment and economic activity, but it also creates demand for roads, infrastructure, transit and public services. I will advocate for strategies that properly align with the current and future goals of the community.
Infrastructure and services must keep pace with development.
“Government should constantly look for opportunities to deliver better services with proven technologies — saving time and money.”
I will advocate for time- and cost-saving technology tools that could improve permit processing, respond to common resident inquiries, summarize information and reduce repetitive administrative workloads — with human oversight, privacy protection and measurable outcomes.
Use technology to improve services — not simply add bureaucracy.
“You should always know where I stand — and always know how to reach me.”
I will hold regular Ward 5 town halls, maintain consistent public office hours and publish plain-language explanations of important Council decisions and my voting record.
Accessible before the election. Accountable after it.
In the 2026 Oakville municipal election, Orla Johnston is running for Town and Regional Councillor in Ward 5 — the seat that represents Ward 5 residents at both Oakville Town Council and Halton Regional Council. She is a long-time Oakville business owner and Chamber of Commerce leader focused on managing development, easing traffic and congestion, protecting neighbourhood character and keeping property taxes responsible.
Election Day is Monday, October 26, 2026. Advance polls in Oakville run October 7 to 10 and October 13 to 18, 2026 — Oakville residents can vote at any advance poll or on Election Day. Learn what a Town and Regional Councillor does, review Orla's platform for Ward 5, or get in touch with questions.