"You have to raise money, because signs and pamphlets usually aren't free," explains Darryl Livingstone, executive assistant for Elmwood Coun. Lillian Thomas, who currently faces no challengers. "For a non-incumbent, it's crucial. In a municipal election, name recognition is important, because voters and the media don't pay attention to the races the way they do in provincial and federal elections."

Once you've registered, it's time to hit up all your friends, relatives and political allies for donations no greater than $750, which is the limit dictated by law. You can approach businesses, labour unions, professional organizations and special interest groups, but no political parties. Anonymous contributions must not be spent -- any cash you receive from an unknown source must be handed over to the senior election official.

Unless you're an incumbent, you should have spent most of the year chatting up prospective voters, meeting with community and business leaders, attending public events and festivals and otherwise getting your name out. This is especially important if you don't have enough money for slick informational pamphlets or many election signs.