City Welcomes Ontario's Decision to Adopt Permanent Daylight Saving Time in Northwestern Ontario

The City welcomes today's announcement from the Province of Ontario that Kenora and the northwestern regions of Ontario will move to permanent daylight saving time, aligning with Manitoba and ending seasonal clock changes.

Beginning November 1, 2026, residents will no longer "fall back" or "spring forward." Instead, Kenora and other affected cities and communities will remain on Central Daylight Time (CDT) year-round, providing greater consistency for residents, businesses, and organizations that regularly travel, work, and access services across the Manitoba border.

In September, the City joined municipalities across the region in seeking public feedback on the future of daylight saving time. Kenora's survey received 5,261 responses, with more than 93 percent of respondents supporting permanent daylight saving time and continued alignment with Manitoba. The change will help ensure consistency across the region and support the strong economic, health care, educational, recreational, and family connections that exist between Northwestern Ontario and Manitoba.

Following the survey, Council considered the results at a Special Meeting on October 9, 2026. Council unanimously supported permanent daylight saving time, reflecting the strong preference expressed by residents and the importance of cross-border connections for the community.

"Kenora residents sent a clear and decisive message through our community survey. This announcement reflects both the preferences of our community and the realities of life in Northwestern Ontario. Permanent alignment with Manitoba will simplify travel, business, health care access, and everyday activities for many residents," shares Mayor Andrew Poirier.  “On behalf of Council and the community, I would like to thank Premier Doug Ford and the Hon. Greg Rickford for their leadership and responsiveness in advancing a solution that reflects the unique needs of Northwestern Ontario."

The City would also like to thank all residents, businesses, and community organizations who participated in the survey. The strong response rate provided valuable insight into local preferences and helped Council better understand the potential impacts of different time options on the community.