The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) sincerely apologizes to our members in Zone 6 – Lambton and Middlesex for the critical error that occurred during the recent mailing of the election packages to eligible voters. Unfortunately, the initial packages that were delivered were incomplete, and did not include the flyers for both candidates seeking election to the OFA Board of Directors.

We recognize the severity of this mistake and deeply regret the confusion and frustration it has caused the candidates and the members in those counties. This was not in any way intended as “election bias,” but instead a very significant oversight that resulted in an administrative error. Immediately upon identifying the mistake, both candidates, the Presidents of the Lambton and Middlesex Federations, and myself were notified.

To correct this error, a revised election package has been prepared and mailed to all eligible voters in Zone 6. Approximately two-thirds of these corrected packages are already in circulation, and the remaining packages are being delivered immediately. Members can expect to begin receiving them shortly. In addition, an email was issued to members in Zone 6 to inform them of the corrected packages and to provide easy access to both candidate profiles and videos for consideration.

OFA takes this matter very seriously. We have undertaken a full review of the process, both internally and externally, to determine how this occurred and to ensure it does not happen again. While our election process includes multiple checks and balances, in this case, those safeguards failed, and for that we offer our unreserved apology.

Our priority remains a fair and equitable election for both candidates. We have acted swiftly to ensure all Zone 6 members receive the complete election materials needed to make an informed decision in this important election. We are addressing member questions directly by phone and email and will conduct a full debrief following this election to strengthen our processes moving forward.

We greatly appreciate your patience and understanding as we resolve the situation and reaffirm our commitment to transparency, fairness, and accountability in serving our members.

For more information and all election materials for Zone 6, please visit ofa.on.ca/zone6election.

Sincerely,

Drew Spoelstra
President
Ontario Federation of Agriculture