Author: Tom Lewis

  • Fort Erie’s Response to the Regional Chair’s Amalgamation Proposal

    Tonight, Fort Erie Town Council listened to a presentation from Regional Chair Bob Gale outlining his personal view on the possible future of the Niagara Region, specifically, the concept of amalgamating into either one municipality or four. This came after Regional Chair Bob Gale wrote to Niagara Mayors last week asking for their preference by March 3rd with no details or public consultation.

    Chair Gale expressed concern about rising property taxes. That concern is legitimate and shared by many across Niagara including myself. However, when pressed for evidence that his proposed governance restructuring would reduce property tax increases, no supporting financial analysis, modelling, or data was provided. There was no business case, no cost-benefit assessment, and no implementation framework presented to substantiate the claim that amalgamation would result in savings. There was noting!

    It was also evident that this proposal does not carry the endorsement of Regional Council. Chairman Gale confirmed that his opinion and proposed recommendation have not been formally brought forward to Regional Council for debate or approval. A matter of this scale one that would fundamentally reshape local governance warrants regional deliberation and consensus before being advanced publicly or to the Province.

    Governance reform is not a minor administrative adjustment. It affects representation, taxation, service delivery, infrastructure planning, and community identity. Residents deserve a transparent, evidence-based discussion grounded in facts, comprehensive financial modelling, and meaningful public consultation.

    “Governance reform is too important to be driven by opinion alone. If we are going to have a serious conversation about amalgamation, it must be grounded in facts, supported by clear financial evidence, and shaped by meaningful public input. Fort Erie residents deserve transparency, accountability, and a credible plan not assumptions or slogans.”

    Tom Lewis – Councillor Town of Fort Erie

    Following the presentation and in light of correspondence received from Chair Gale, Fort Erie Council unanimously passed on a recorded vote an amendment (moved by Councillors Dubanow/Lewis) authorizing the Mayor of Fort Erie, on behalf of Council, to file a formal complaint with the Integrity Commissioner under Section 11 of the Region’s Code of Conduct. This decision reflects Council’s commitment to accountability and proper governance processes.

    Fort Erie remains focused on disciplined financial management and addressing long-term infrastructure challenges responsibly. We share the goal of efficient and effective government. However, efficiency cannot simply be asserted it must be demonstrated and tonight’s presentation by Chairman Gale was a failure is doing just that.

    This is part of Fort Erie Council’s response to the Chair’s proposal. Conversations about amalgamation must be based on evidence, include the voice of residents, and proceed with transparency and respect for established governance processes.

    Thank you to those who watched and attended and Council for asking the many questions that need to be addressed before any further consideration can be made with respect to the questions Chairman Gale is requesting.

    Residents can view the full Council meeting on the Town’s website and are encouraged to stay informed and engaged as this discussion continues to view the presentation visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2cx3QE_CQg [Time Starts at 1:20;40]

  • Bob Gale, Regional Chair – Announces plans for Niagara Region Governance Reform with minimal public consultation.

    Newly appojnted Niagara Region Chair Bob Gale has indicated that he intends to move forward with recommendations to the Province regarding potential governance reform in Niagara.

    The Town of Fort Erie recently received correspondence advising that options under consideration include amalgamating Niagara’s municipalities into either a single city (1) or four (4) city’s. Feedback from local councils has been requested by March 3, 2026.

    This is an important conversation and one that should be approached thoughtfully, transparently, and with meaningful public input.

    In my opinion governance reform should focus on improving efficiency, reducing unnecessary spending, and delivering better value for taxpayers. It should also recognize and respect municipalities that have managed growth responsibly, carried low levels of debt, and worked diligently over decades to address infrastructure gaps with little Provincial support.

    For perspective, it’s true Ontario has 124 MPPs representing the entire province, yet across Niagara there are 126 municipal elected officials including the Region of Niagara represatives.

    If we are serious about affordability and accountability, a discussion about modernization and reform is overdue. At the same time, amalgamation is not the only possible path to savings and we need to look at all options. We should carefully examine whether there are ways to reduce costs and improve service delivery without fundamentally restructuring our local governments and communities losing local attonomy.

    Many questions remain unanswered such as but not limited to

    • What would a one-city (1) or four-city (4) model actually look like?

    • What are the verified, long-term cost savings?

    • How would local representation be maintained?

    • Would decisions affecting your neighbourhood be made further from the community?

    Before any recommendation is finalized by the Regional Chair, local municipalities including residents deserve clarity and the opportunity to weigh in.

    With all that said… I want to hear from you!

    What are your thoughts on potential amalgamation and its impact on Fort Erie?

    Your feedback will help me pass along information from the community!

    tlewis@forterie.ca or follow me on face book or linkedin

    “Governance reform is a conversation worth having, but it must be done thoughtfully, transparently, and with meaningful public input. While Regional Chair Bob Gale has signaled his intention to move quickly, residents of Fort Erie deserve more details than simply implying ‘one city or four?’ and “tell me what you think, but you dont need more than two weeks time” We need to clearly understand what the models look like, what the real cost savings are, and how local decision making will be protected. If our goal is affordability and accountability, then reducing unnecessary spending and improving efficiency should be the focus , not rushing toward a predetermined outcome. I encourage residents to share their feedback as this important discussion moves forward.”

    Councillor – Tom Lewis – Town of Fort Erie

    To view the official Town of Fort Erie current position on the recent letter received by Regional Chair Bob Gale click here

  • 3990 Rebstock Road – Zoning Amendment Open House

    145 Derby Road and 3990 Rebstock Road – Applications for an Official Plan Amendment, a Zoning By-law Amendment, a Draft Plan of Subdivision and a Draft Plan of Common Elements Condominium to facilitate the development of 36 block townhouses and one 4-storey apartment building with 24 dwelling units had been submitted to the Town of Fort Erie.

    To view the full submission visit the link below.

    https://www2.forterie.ca/resource/eservicesPlanning.xsp?s1=PZAA-CRII-DC4R85

    Public Open House is February 24 2026 at 5:00 PM Town Hall 1 Municipal Centre Drive, Fort Erie

  • Planning Application Notice 19 Derby Road

    The Town of Fort Erie has received an Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment application for the property at 19 Derby Road.

    The applications propose a three-storey apartment building. The requested amendments would:

    • Permit a three-storey apartment building within the existing site-specific Medium Density Residential designation; and
    • Rezone the property from Residential Multiple 1 (RM1-692) to a site-specific Residential Multiple 2 (RM2) zone.

    The zoning amendment includes site-specific provisions related to lot area, lot coverage, landscaping, and parking.

    Public Meeting

    A Public Meeting will be held to receive public input prior to Council making a decision.

    Date: Monday, February 23, 2026
    Time: 6:00 p.m.
    Location: Council Chambers, Town Hall, 1 Municipal Centre Drive, Fort Erie

    The meeting may be attended in person or virtually by registering with the Town Clerk at clerk@forterie.ca.

    The meeting will also be live-streamed on the Town of Fort Erie YouTube channel and the Town’s website (www.forterie.ca).

  • A Thank You to Our Infrastructure and Operations Team

    Over the weekend, Town of Fort Erie Infrastructure and Operations staff were hard at work clearing accumulated snow from the sides of roads in our business districts, including right here in Crystal Beach. I want to extend a sincere thank you to the crews for their dedication and professionalism.

    This work was an important and necessary step to ensure vehicles can park safely and access local shops and restaurants, while also preparing our roadways for any additional snow events we may see in the days and weeks ahead this winter. Keeping our business areas accessible is essential to supporting the local economy, especially during the colder months.

    I would also like to thank residents, business owners, and visitors for their patience as crews navigated temporary detours and road closures to complete this work safely and efficiently. These short-term inconveniences help ensure long-term safety and accessibility for everyone.

    Seeing crews out on a Sunday speaks volumes about their commitment to our community. Their willingness to work outside of regular hours does not go unnoticed and is truly appreciated. Thank you for everything you do to keep Fort Erie safe, accessible, and moving.

    Now that the roads are cleared park the car, take a walk, and show some love to our local businesses. Supporting local makes a real difference!

  • Finding Beauty and Perspective along a Frozen Lake in Crystal Beach

    There’s something about a sunny winter day along Lake Erie that feels almost deceptive in the best way. With the sun overhead and the sky a clear winter blue, it’s easy to forget just how harsh and powerful the lake can be. A walk through Waterfront Park today was a reminder of that balance between beauty and respect for nature.

    The ice caves along the shoreline were absolutely stunning. Sculpted by wind, waves, and freezing temperatures, they feel otherworldly like something you’d expect to see much farther north. Sunlight bouncing off the ice brought out layers of blues and whites, and for a moment everything felt calm, quiet, and almost magical. It’s no surprise that these formations draw people out, cameras in hand, eager to take it all in.

    But as breathtaking as they are, the ice caves also tell a more serious story. Lake Erie doesn’t rest in winter it just changes. Ice can shift, crack, and break away without warning. What looks solid one moment can become dangerous the next, especially as temperatures fluctuate or sunlight weakens the ice from above. It’s a reminder that while nature invites us to admire it, it also demands our respect.

    Being out in the sun today, feeling the warmth on my face in the middle of winter, was a gift. Moments like these are what make living by the lake so special. At the same time, it’s important to enjoy them safely staying back from unstable ice, keeping distance from the caves themselves, and remembering that no photo or close-up view is worth the risk.

    Lake Erie in winter is beautiful, powerful, and humbling all at once. If you’re heading out to explore, take it slow, stay aware, and enjoy the view from a safe distance. Sometimes the best way to appreciate nature is simply to admire it as it.

  • Fort Erie’s Budget & Finances: What It Means for Our Community

    Every year, Council is tasked with one of its most important responsibilities — approving a municipal budget that balances fiscal responsibility with the needs of our growing community. The Town of Fort Erie’s budget isn’t just a financial document; it’s a reflection of our priorities, our values, and our long-term vision for the town we all call home.

    I often hear from residents who want to better understand how the budget works and where their tax dollars go. I hope this overview helps shed some light on that process and what the current budget means for Fort Erie.

    How the Town’s Budget Is Structured

    Fort Erie’s budget is made up of three key components:

    Operating Budget
    This covers the day-to-day services residents rely on — things like fire and emergency services, road maintenance, parks and recreation, libraries, by-law enforcement, and the operation of Town facilities. Simply put, this is what keeps the Town running smoothly each day.

    Water & Wastewater Budget
    This budget ensures we continue to deliver safe, reliable drinking water and properly manage wastewater systems. These services are critical to public health and environmental protection and are funded separately from property taxes.

    Capital Budget
    The capital budget focuses on longer-term investments — roads, bridges, sidewalks, watermain replacements, parks, and major equipment. These are the projects that maintain and improve our infrastructure and prepare Fort Erie for future growth.

    Highlights from the 2026 Budget

    In January, Council approved the 2026 municipal budget following months of review, discussion, and careful consideration. Our goal was to maintain service levels residents expect while continuing to invest in infrastructure — all while being mindful of affordability.

    • The Operating Budget comes in at just under $39 million, supporting essential municipal services across the Town.
    • The Water and Wastewater Budget, at approximately $27.2 million, allows us to continue upgrading and maintaining critical systems. For the average household, this translates to a modest monthly increase, reflecting rising operational and infrastructure costs.
    • The Capital Budget includes roughly $23.8 million across more than 60 projects. These investments include road resurfacing, watermain replacements, bridge and culvert rehabilitation, and park improvements — projects residents see and benefit from every day.

    Importantly, these capital investments are being made without taking on new long-term debt for 2026, which was a key consideration for Council.

    What This Means for Residents

    No one takes tax or rate increases lightly — Council included. The Town’s portion of residential property taxes increased by 3.5%, a decision made to ensure services remain reliable while keeping Fort Erie financially stable.

    We continue to make strategic use of reserves and non-tax revenue sources to reduce pressure on taxpayers wherever possible. This balanced approach helps ensure we’re meeting today’s needs without creating challenges for the future.

    Transparency and Accountability

    I firmly believe residents deserve clear, accessible information about how their money is being spent. The Town’s Budget & Finances page provides detailed budget documents, financial reports, and background information for anyone who wants to take a deeper look.

    If you ever have questions about the budget, I encourage you to reach out — these conversations matter, and informed discussion makes our community stronger.

    Together, we are continuing to build a Fort Erie that is financially responsible, resilient, and well-positioned for the years ahead.

  • Winter Weather Update & Safety Reminder

    The next few days may bring challenging winter conditions. If the forecast is calling for severe weather, please allow extra time for travel, adjust your plans, or consider postponing travel altogether. If you don’t need to be on the roads, staying home is often the safest option.

    Check the latest official forecast here:
    🔗 https://weather.gc.ca/en/location/index.html?coords=42.867,-79.059

    Now is a good time to ensure your 72-Hour Emergency Kit is ready. Winter storms, power outages, and other emergencies can develop quickly. Ask yourself:
    👉 Could you and your family manage for 72 hours if needed?

    Prepare your kit today:
    🔗 https://bit.ly/3XATuD8

    🔌 Power Outages & Important Contacts

    • For electricity outages or updates, contact Canadian Niagara Power or visit their website:
      🔗 https://www.cnpower.com
    • For natural gas concerns, contact Enbridge Gas or visit their website:
      🔗 https://www.enbridgegas.com
    • For municipal assistance or urgent local concerns, contact the Town of Fort Erie at 905-871-1600
    • For all emergencies or critical situations, call 911 immediately

    Please stay informed, stay prepared, and look out for one another as conditions change.

  • Important Health Care Update

    This Weekend Niagara Health staff have contacted the Mayor of Fort Erie to advise of temporary changes to Urgent Care Centre hours this weekend due to a physician shortage.

    Photo Credit Niagara this Week

    • The Fort Erie (Douglas Memorial) Urgent Care Centre will close at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday

    • The Port Colborne Urgent Care Centre will close at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday

    NH have advised these closures will occur on alternating days and are related to staffing challenges being experienced across the Niagara Health system.

    Residents are encouraged to plan accordingly and seek alternative care options if needed.

    Further updates will be shared as they become available or visit Niagara Health for more detail.

  • Understanding the Point Abino Municipal Drain — A Local Infrastructure Story

    For information on the Point Abino Drain including process, reports and contact information click here

    In the Town of Fort Erie and neighbouring City of Port Colborne, the Point Abino Municipal Drain plays a quiet but essential role in how water is managed on the landscape. The drain isn’t just a ditch in the ground it’s a municipal drainage system created under provincial law and subject to formal engineering, public input, cost-sharing, and legal safeguards.

    What Is a Municipal Drain?

    A municipal drain is a system designed to move water away from land that needs drainage often agricultural fields, rural properties, roadside ditches, and other areas where water flow needs to be controlled. Unlike natural streams that simply follow the land, a municipal drain is:

    This means that although it functions on the local landscape, the Point Abino Drain’s legal authority comes from provincial legislation, not just municipal policy or local infrastructure planning.

    How the Drain Was Established

    Under the Ontario Drainage Act, municipal drains are created through a formal process administered by local municipalities but grounded in provincial law. Key steps include:

    1. Petition or Request — Landowners in an area with drainage issues submit a legally prescribed petition for drainage to the municipality. If enough owners sign (based on number or land area), the process moves forward.
    2. Engineer’s Report — An engineer is appointed to assess the problem, propose a drainage solution, and prepare a detailed report. This report includes technical plans and a cost-sharing schedule for landowners in the drain’s watershed.
    3. Council Review and By-law — The report is considered at a public “Meeting to Consider” and, if accepted, council passes a by-law adopting the report. This by-law is the formal legal instrument that brings the municipal drain into existence.

    For the Point Abino Municipal Drain specifically, a recent engineer’s report under the Drainage Act was completed and filed with the City of Port Colborne in 2025 as part of this legislated process. Port Colborne council will decide whether to adopt the report a decision that triggers the legal appeal rights set out in the Act.

    Who Pays for Drain Cleaning and Maintenance?

    Once a municipal drain exists under the Drainage Act, all properties within its watershed contribute to its upkeep. Rather than being solely a municipal expense, costs for cleaning, repair, improvements, and even extensions are apportioned to landowners who benefit from the drain based on the engineer’s assessment.

    This means:

    • If you live within the Point Abino Drain watershed, you may be assessed a share of maintenance costs; and
    • Even if the drain runs near or under your land, you have a stake in how it’s maintained — and rights in the process.

    How Residents Can Be Involved

    Being part of a municipal drain watershed doesn’t mean you’re passive. The Drainage Act includes several points of landowner consultation and appeal:

    • Meeting to Consider — When council first considers the engineer’s report, landowners can raise questions or concerns.
    • Court of Revision — After the report is adopted, the Court of Revision hears disputes about how costs are assigned.
    • Appeals — Beyond the Court of Revision, landowners can appeal certain decisions to the Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Appeal Tribunal, providing a provincial-level review process.

    This layered process helps balance individual property rights with the collective need for effective drainage infrastructure.

    Where to Get More Details

    For anyone living in Fort Erie, Crystal Beach, or around Point Abino who wants to learn more:

    • The Ontario Drainage Act is available through the Ontario government’s e-laws website — it’s the legal backbone of all municipal drains in the province.
    • Your municipality’s Drainage Superintendent or Clerk’s Office can provide copies of engineer’s reports, assessment schedules, and by-laws related to the Point Abino Drain.
    • Past and current engineer’s reports and public notices for the Point Abino Municipal Drain are often posted on the City of Port Colborne and Town of Fort Erie websites.

    Municipal drains like the Point Abino Drain may not be the most visible part of our community, but they combine engineering, law, and shared responsibility to keep our land from flooding and working for the people who live here. Understanding that it’s a provincially governed legal process, not just a local decision, helps landowners know their rights and their role in shaping how water moves across our watershed.

    Unsure if you are in a Municipal Watershed?

    If new to the area and considering purchasing rural property or unsure if this applies to you. You will want to check with your real estate agent and or municipal by-laws and confirm if you or the property you are looking at are within a municipal drain watershed.

    For information on the Point Abino Drain including process, reports and contact information click here

    Town of Fort Erie Contacts

    Troy Davidson — Drainage Superintendent
    📞 Town of Fort Erie: 905-871-1600 (ask for extension 2405)
    📧 Email: tdavidson@forterie.ca

    Or

    Town of Fort Erie Customer Service:
    📞 905-871-1600
    or use the contact form on the Town’s website to ask for the right drainage contact and get routed appropriately.