Neil Morton Officially Launches "Together, We Will” Campaign for Mayor of Peterborough

Aims to Unlock City’s Great Potential as Economic and Cultural Hub of Central Ontario 

PETERBOROUGH, ON – [May 26, 2026] – Local community builder and entrepreneur Neil Morton will officially launch his campaign for Mayor of Peterborough today, unveiling a bold vision to revitalize the city’s economy, restore vibrancy to the downtown core, and improve affordability for young adults, families and retirees.

Morton’s campaign has been shaped by conversations with residents from all walks of life, who say that Peterborough is not living up to its great potential. 

"I’ve spent months meeting with hundreds of residents from across the city, and the message is clear: people love Peterborough – but they want the city to love them back," said Morton. "We’re stuck in a cycle of scarcity and fighting over scraps.” 

Key themes from Peterborough residents:

  • I want our family to stay here – but quality jobs and affordable homes are hard to find.
  • I want investment in things like transportation, healthcare, the arts, social services and infrastructure – but we can’t afford more big tax increases.
  • I believe in our downtown – but it doesn’t feel vibrant or welcoming at times.
  • I want us to support our most vulnerable – but resources are being strained.
  • I want to make a difference – but the system seems dysfunctional.

“I’m running for Mayor because I believe in abundance,” continued Morton. “I refuse to accept ‘we can’t’ as a reason for not doing the right things for Peterborough. What if we could?"

Under the campaign banner "Together, We Will," Morton will outline a pragmatic, action-oriented vision that challenges the status quo, and focuses on unlocking Peterborough’s potential to be one of Canada’s great cities.

A Platform Built on Action

Morton’s vision focuses on unifying Peterborough to propel the city to reach its full potential, including:

  • Economic Vitality: We will have more industry, more high-paying jobs to provide a foundation of abundance.
  • Downtown Vibrancy: We will have more people living, working and enjoying our core.
  • Affordability: We will invest residents’ tax dollars with care – with one eye on the present and one on the future.
  • Livability: We will be a socially responsible city that works for all of us – healthcare, transportation, policing, social services, the arts and more.
  • Responsible Housing: We will move from planning to building, and create the housing that Peterborough needs, responsibly. 
  • Integrity & Collaboration – We will create an environment of openness, respect and high trust at City Hall. 

About Neil Morton

Morton grew up in Peterborough, and is a graduate of Adam Scott CVI and Trent University. He’s a recognized business leader who’s built successful local companies including PTBOCanada and StudioPTBO. A lifelong community builder, he has served with the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce and Canadian Canoe Museum, and chaired the United Way of Peterborough & District fundraising campaign.

"I’m not a career politician – I’m a community builder," Morton added. "I’m ready to make the tough calls to get our city moving again. But as Mayor, I’m just one voice. Great things only happen when we do them as a team. I need everyone to bring their passion – and most of all, bring their energy and their deep caring to our new Electric City.

My campaign’s an invitation to every resident who believes Peterborough’s best days are ahead of us. To those who believe we can reach our highest potential, I say: Together, we will."

Campaign Kick-Off Event

Residents and members of the media are invited to attend the launch event, where Morton will unveil his vision to unlock Peterborough’s full potential:

    • What: Neil Morton for PTBO Campaign Launch
    • When: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 | 5:00 PM
    • Where: Market Hall, 140 Charlotte Street

About the Campaign

Neil Morton for PTBO is dedicated to building a Peterborough of abundance and resilience, for everyone. Centred on the values of integrity, empathy, collaboration, and accountability, the campaign aims to unite the city to unlock its full potential. #TogetherWeWill. www.mortonformayor.ca