Five questions with Zachary Thoms, candidate for Smiths Falls council in the 2026 municipal election
Editor’s note: To help voters to be better informed, Lanarkist will be asking the same five questions of all council candidates in Carleton Place, Smiths Falls, Perth and Mississippi Mills in advance of the municipal election, which will be held on Monday, Oct. 26, 2026. Questions were sent to all candidates on Sept. 4, 2026. We will publish their responses as we receive them. Below are the responses from Smiths Falls candidate Zacahry Thoms. You can view a roundup of all our Smiths Falls municipal coverage and links to all completed profiles here.
1. Tell us a little bit about your professional background, including any prior municipal or other political participation, as well as about you, personally. What made you want to run for council?
My name is Zachary Thoms. I’m a husband, a father of two, and three years ago my family and I moved from Toronto to Smiths Falls. We bought a 120-year-old fixer-upper at George and Gladstone — a beautiful home that had simply gone too long without the love it deserved. In many ways, I see Smiths Falls the same way: a place where a little love, care, and commitment can go a very long way.
My professional background isn’t political, and I don’t pretend that it is. What I do bring is a wide range of real-world experience, responsibility and service — the kind that shapes an everyday person with capacity, capability and a willingness to work. I answer questions clearly, with that knowledge that disagreement and offense are possible outcomes, but your soul gives you eternal value and you will always have my ear; working to fully understand your side. Saying that, when I’m wrong, its an honour to apologize and ask for grace and forgiveness.
Educationally and professionally, I hold a bachelor’s degree in police studies from Laurentian University, and although I’ve been employed by the OPP, most of my career was spent with the Sheet Metal Workers Union, including time teaching and training. Nine years ago, I started my own HVAC company as an owner-operator, which still runs out of Toronto. I also manage two rental properties and am currently working toward my Biblical counselling certification with ACBC.
Service has been a constant in my life. I’ve spent thousands of hours — from youth to present — supporting the growth of families, communities and the future through youth retreats, suicide distress centres, teen drop ins, and community programs. Presently in Smith Falls, I participate in and lead youth groups, back-country camping trips, community meals and music events.
My family moved to Smiths Falls to raise our children, serve our church and love our community. My desire is to influence Smiths Falls in family, business, and spiritual commitment — to steward this town sacrificially for the betterment of the next generation.
2. How would you describe your personal political ideology and/or affiliation?
Traditional Conservative, given the current Overton window. The goal not being more money, but wise investments in a people and place building a culture of responsibility, honour and purpose.
3. What are the three most common issues voters bring up to you as you campaign?
- Police
- Business development
- Affordable Housing
4. What three issues are most pressing/important to address locally in your opinion?
- Business development and town growth
- Culture
- Supporting Families
5. What do you feel sets you apart from other candidates?
Tied to a deep church community that has a desire to serve but lacks the knowledge for implementation. I plan to be part of the bridge to that gap.
Tied to a variety of socioeconomic and diverse group of people in the community, tying me to the pulse of the town.
Finally, I will stand before Christ regarding the life gifted to me, accountable to my stewardship of his giftings. You will never have to worry that I am not doing my best for you because I have been called to do my best for him. My marriage, my work ethic, my family and children are all a testament to this truth and to the man your voting for.