Author: Tom Lewis

  • Crystal Beach Concert Series Kicks Off the Summer Season at Waterfront Park

    The first evening of the Crystal Beach Concert Series got underway tonight at Waterfront Park, marking a welcome start to another summer of live music and community gathering by the lake.

    Despite a weather forecast that looked uncertain earlier in the day, the evening turned out to be a beautiful one. The rain largely held off, and residents and visitors were able to enjoy a comfortable night outdoors, setting the tone for what promises to be a great season ahead.

    A sincere thank you goes out to the volunteers from the Ridgeway–Crystal Beach Kin Club and the Crystal Beach Business Improvement Area Board of Management for their continued dedication in organizing and supporting this fantastic community event. Their hard work behind the scenes is what makes evenings like this possible.

    Thank you as well to everyone who attended, volunteered, performed, and contributed to the success of opening night. Community events like the Crystal Beach Concert Series are a reminder of what makes this area such a special place to live, work, and visit.

    For those looking to enjoy more summer activities, information on upcoming Thursday Summer Market events and future concerts can be found by following the Crystal Beach Waterfront Supper Market.

  • Making Parking More Accessible for Crystal Beach Residents and Visitors

    Parking in Crystal Beach continues to be one of the most talked-about issues in our community, especially during the busy summer season when our area welcomes so many visitors.

    Recently, Fort Erie Radio reported on changes to parking pass fees in Crystal Beach, including a reduction in monthly costs. These adjustments are part of an ongoing effort to find the right balance between supporting local residents, maintaining fair access to our municipal lots, and ensuring our local businesses continue to thrive.

    Parking policy is never simple in a beach community like ours. We need to consider turnover in high-demand areas, affordability for residents who rely on these spaces, and the overall visitor experience that supports our local economy. When changes are made, it’s important that they reflect real feedback from the community and remain practical for the long term.

    I continue to support approaches that keep Crystal Beach accessible while making sure we are managing our infrastructure responsibly. These conversations are ongoing, and I appreciate the input we continue to receive from residents, business owners, and visitors alike.

    For more details on the changes and the full discussion, I encourage you to read the Fort Erie Radio article below.

    👉 Read the full article here:
    https://forterieradio.ca/town-reducing-monthly-fees-on-crystal-beach-parking-passes/

    As always, I welcome feedback from residents as we work through these important community issues together.

    — Tom Lewis
    Ward 5 Councillor, Town of Fort Erie

  • A four-way stop for Point Abino-Michener intersection?

    As many residents in Ward 5 know, traffic safety is something I take seriously especially in areas where rural roads, seasonal traffic, and residential access all meet.

    Recently, I spoke with Fort Erie Radio about an important intersection in our community: Point Abino Road and Michener Road. I have raised concerns about safety at this location and suggested that a four-way stop may be a practical, low-cost solution to help calm traffic and improve visibility for drivers entering and exiting the intersection.

    This is not about adding unnecessary infrastructure—it’s about responding to real conditions on the ground. Residents who travel this route regularly understand that traffic patterns change with the seasons, and safety measures need to reflect that reality.

    Traffic calming tools like four-way stops can make a meaningful difference, especially in areas where sightlines, speed, and turning movements create potential risks. My goal is always to look for practical solutions that enhance safety while respecting the flow of traffic and the character of our community.

    I encourage residents to read the full Fort Erie Radio article to learn more about the discussion and the context behind this proposal.

    👉 You can read the full article here:
    https://forterieradio.ca/lewis-eyes-four-way-stop-for-point-abino-michener-intersection/

    As always, I welcome feedback from residents. These conversations are how we continue to improve safety and quality of life in Ward 5—together.

    — Tom Lewis

  • Fort Erie Exploring New Development Charge Reduction Program to Support Housing Growth

    At this week’s Council meeting, an important report was presented regarding a newly announced funding opportunity that could help accelerate housing development in Fort Erie while securing additional infrastructure funding for our community.

    Council supported a recommendation directing Town staff to further investigate and prepare an application for the newly launched Canada-Ontario Development Charge Reduction Program (DCRP), with applications due by June 19, 2026.

    For those who may not be familiar with Development Charges (DCs), they are fees collected from developers to help municipalities fund infrastructure required to support growth, including roads, water and wastewater systems, parks, and other municipal services. Development Charges are often a topic of discussion when considering housing affordability and the cost of new residential construction.

    The Canada-Ontario Development Charge Reduction Program offers municipalities a unique opportunity. Under the program, municipalities can access federal and provincial infrastructure funding in exchange for committing to meaningful reductions in residential development charges for a period of three years.

    To be eligible, municipalities must commit to reducing residential Development Charges by at least 30%, with greater funding opportunities available for larger reductions of up to 50% or more. These reductions must be applied consistently across all residential development types and maintained throughout the three-year program period.

    The report presented to Council outlined the potential financial opportunities available to the Town, while also identifying the work that must be undertaken before an application can be submitted. Town staff will now review eligible capital projects contained within the Town’s Development Charges Background Study and 10-Year Capital Plan to determine which projects may qualify for funding through the program.

    Council’s support of this initial step does not automatically reduce Development Charges. Rather, it authorizes the Chief Administrative Officer and Town staff to conduct the necessary analysis, evaluate the potential impacts, and submit an application before the provincial deadline.

    This review is important because it will help determine whether Fort Erie can leverage additional infrastructure funding while continuing to support responsible growth and housing development in our community.

    As housing affordability and housing supply continue to be priorities across Ontario, programs such as the DCRP may provide municipalities with additional tools to encourage new residential construction while ensuring the infrastructure needed to support growth remains in place.

    I will continue to follow this initiative closely and provide updates as more information becomes available.

    Residents interested in reviewing the full report can find it within the June 8, 2026 Council Agenda package:

    https://pub-forterie.escribemeetings.com/Meeting.aspx?Id=10d22483-fee6-4f53-b050-72886088ac06&Agenda=Merged&lang=English

  • Exciting News for Crystal Beach: Over $215,000 Proposed for Community Improvements

    I am very excited to see the Town of Fort Erie moving forward with the proposed Community Improvement Plan (CIP), which includes Crystal Beach as one of six designated project areas and brings with it a proposed allocation of more than $215,000 to support local revitalization efforts here in Crystal Beach.

    The Consolidated Community Improvement Plan is currently available for public review and feedback, and represents an important opportunity to invest in our community, support local businesses, and continue building on the vision outlined in the Crystal Beach Secondary Plan.

    Crystal Beach has long been a unique destination within Fort Erie, known for its vibrant waterfront, growing business community, and strong sense of place. The proposed CIP recognizes this potential and provides meaningful tools to help property owners and businesses invest in improvements that will strengthen our commercial areas and enhance the overall appearance and sustainability of our community.

    Under previous Council direction, one-third of the existing CIP Reserve was earmarked for the Crystal Beach project area. Based on the reserve balance at the time, this represents an investment of approximately $215,433 dedicated to Crystal Beach initiatives.

    The proposed incentive programs include:

    Commercial Building Improvement Grant

    This program would support façade improvements, accessibility upgrades, signage, lighting, landscaping, and other exterior enhancements. Eligible applicants could receive up to 50% of project costs, to a maximum of $20,000 per property.

    Professional Study Grant Program

    This grant would assist with feasibility studies, architectural and heritage assessments, servicing reviews, and environmental studies. Funding would cover up to 50% of eligible costs, to a maximum of $7,500 per property.

    Sustainability & Climate Improvement Grant

    This program would encourage investments in energy efficiency, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, green infrastructure, stormwater management, and urban greening projects. Funding would cover up to 50% of eligible costs, to a maximum of $5,000 per property.

    The draft CIP has been circulated to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing for review, with comments expected prior to Council’s consideration on July 20. Following public input and Council direction, the final plan is expected to be brought forward for adoption in August and, subject to the standard appeal period, could come into force by mid-September.

    I encourage residents, business owners, and property owners to review the proposed plan and provide feedback. This investment has the potential to create lasting benefits for Crystal Beach by supporting economic development, beautification, accessibility, sustainability, and community pride.

    As your Ward 5 Councillor, I am pleased to see this initiative progressing and look forward to working with residents, businesses, and Town staff as we continue investing in the future of Crystal Beach.

    For further detials or to submit comments please visit.

    https://letstalk.forterie.ca/community-improvement-plan-public-open-house?utm_source=chatgpt.com

  • Crystal Beach Sponsor a Planter program 2026

    Are you looking for another great way to support the dedicated volunteers helping keep Crystal Beach beautiful?

    The Crystal Beach Sponsor a Planter Program is a wonderful opportunity for residents, businesses, families, and community groups to show their community pride while helping brighten our streets and public spaces all season long.

    These beautiful planters add so much charm and vibrancy to Crystal Beach, and they are made possible through the hard work of volunteers and the support of our community beautification committee.

    If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back and support the ongoing beautification of Crystal Beach, consider sponsoring a planter this season!

    Together, we continue to make Crystal Beach a welcoming and vibrant place for everyone to enjoy.

    More details below

  • Happy Mothers Day

    I want to take a moment to recognize and celebrate the incredible women in our community.

    To those who are moms, those who hope to become moms, and those who play a nurturing and supportive role in the lives of others this day is for you as well.

    Thank you for the care, strength, compassion, and support you bring to your families, friends, workplaces, and community like #forterie every day.

    Wishing everyone a wonderful and restful Mother’s Day!

  • Community Improvement Program Public Open House

    I am excited to share that the Town of Fort Erie is moving forward with a proposed Community Improvement Plan (CIP) that includes Crystal Beach as one of six designated project areas.

    Public Open House set for May 20th at town hall detials below

    https://letstalk.forterie.ca/community-improvement-plan-public-open-house?utm_source=chatgpt.com

    This initiative could bring more than $215,000 in dedicated funding to support improvements throughout Crystal Beach, helping property owners and businesses invest in projects that enhance our community and strengthen our local economy.

    The proposed programs include funding for:
    ✅ Building and façade improvements
    ✅ Accessibility upgrades
    ✅ Signage, lighting, and landscaping
    ✅ Professional studies and planning work
    ✅ Sustainability projects and energy-efficiency improvements
    ✅ EV charging infrastructure and green initiatives

    The draft Community Improvement Plan is currently available for public review, and Town Council will be considering the proposed project areas at the upcoming Council meeting on July 20.

    I encourage all residents, business owners, and property owners to learn more about the proposal and share their feedback. This is an important opportunity to help shape the future of Crystal Beach and ensure these investments reflect our community’s priorities.

    Crystal Beach continues to be one of Fort Erie’s most vibrant and unique communities, and I am pleased to see this significant investment moving forward.

    For more information and to review the draft plan, visit the Town’s Community Improvement Plan consultation page.

    For more details visit: https://letstalk.forterie.ca/community-improvement-plan-public-open-house?utm_source=chatgpt.com

  • 2026 Town of Fort Erie Fire Department Awards

    One of my favourite events each year is the Town of Fort Erie, Fort Erie Fire Department Awards Evening. It’s a meaningful opportunity to reflect and recognize the many contributions made by our largely volunteer fire department.

    Thank you to everyone who helped make tonight such a success and to those who couldn’t attend because they were on duty, ensuring our community remained protected while we gathered to celebrate you. Your dedication does not go unnoticed.

  • Building a Better Crystal Beach: Sidewalk, Curb, and Lighting Improvements

    There’s a noticeable increase in construction activity across the Crystal Beach neighbourhood this week, as crews work on a series of important infrastructure upgrades. Residents and visitors may see sidewalk and curb repairs underway, along with street light replacements at the intersection of Ridgeway Road and Erie Road.

    While this kind of work can sometimes bring shortterm inconvenience, it plays a vital role in maintaining and improving the safety, accessibility, and overall appearance of our community. Well-maintained sidewalks and curbs support pedestrian safety and mobility, while updated street lighting enhances visibility and contributes to a safer environment for everyone, especially during evening hours.

    These projects are part of the Town of Fort Erie’s ongoing commitment to investing in local infrastructure and ensuring that Crystal Beach remains a vibrant, welcoming place to live, work, and visit. Regular maintenance and timely upgrades help extend the life of public assets and prevent more significant issues down the road.

    This is also a great opportunity to remind residents that keeping our community in top shape is a shared responsibility. If you notice an area in need of repair whether it’s damaged pavement, lighting issues, or other concerns please take a moment to report it. Submitting these observations helps Town staff track issues, prioritize work, and plan for future improvements.

    Residents can report concerns by calling 905-871-1600 or by emailing customerservice@forterie.ca. Every report helps contribute to a safer, more connected community.

    Thank you to everyone for your patience as this work continues, and for playing a role in keeping Crystal Beach and the broader Fort Erie community well-maintained and thriving.

    Check out the Fort Erie Radio article by clicking on this link https://forterieradio.ca/fort-erie-expands-sidewalk-repairs-to-fix-worst-hazards/