Category: Tom

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

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

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

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!

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

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/

I am sharing this to offer a bit of clarity on how FortErie acknowledges, reflects, and celebrates diversity, pride, and equity.

These values matter to our community, and it’s important to highlight the ways our community continues to grow, learn, and support one another.

Statement from Mayor Wayne Redekop Regarding Pride Flag Raising

“The Town of Fort Erie has committed meaningful and sustained action to support the 2SLGBTQ+ community and foster inclusion across our municipality. Through ongoing partnerships, hosting community events, providing town facilities, raising the Pride flag, and actively promoting Pride initiatives, we have worked to ensure residents feel seen, supported, and welcome.

We also work closely with the town’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Coalition to advance inclusive practices, strengthen community connections, and guide our efforts across programs and services. Inclusion is reflected in our actions, our spaces, and our continued commitment to providing a community for everyone.

We have historically supported Pride Niagara and will continue to do so. We value the relationship and the important work Pride Niagara does across the region.

This year, Pride Niagara required that the Town of Fort Erie purchase a table of tickets to its annual awards event as a condition for raising its Pride flag.

Introducing a required financial commitment to raise an organization’s flag sets a precedent that Fort Erie is not willing to do.

This position does not reflect our commitment to Pride Niagara or the 2SLGBTQ+ community. It is about maintaining a consistent and fair approach to how the town supports organizations across the community. We recognize that other municipalities are facing similar considerations.

Fort Erie has been approached by local Pride community members wishing to raise the Pride flag on June 1st at Town Hall, so we will confirm a time and welcome anyone in the community who wishes to join us.”

Volunteer Appreciation Week offered a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the many individuals who help make Fort Erie and Crystal Beach such vibrant and connected communities.

From organizing local events to quietly supporting neighbours and community initiatives, volunteers play an essential role in strengthening the fabric of our town. Much of their work happens behind the scenes, often without recognition, yet its impact is seen and felt every day.

Their dedication, generosity, and community spirit are what keep Fort Erie thriving. On behalf of the community, thank you to all our volunteers for the time, energy, and care you continue to give.

Thank you for all that you do!

There’s a lot of construction activity happening in the Crystal Beach neighbourhood this week, including sidewalk and curb repairs, as well as street light replacements at Ridgeway Road and Erie Road.

These improvements are part of ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance our community’s infrastructure.

This is also a good reminder if you notice an area in need of repair, please report it so it can be logged and reviewed by staff for future follow-up. You can call 905-871-1600 or email customerservice@forterie.ca.

Keeping our community safe and well-maintained is a shared effort.

Today was a true celebration of community spirit and EarthDay from the opening of the community garden in Fort Erie with COPE, to tree planting in Ridgeway with the NPCA and the hard work from the Crystal Beach Beautification Committee including so many residents out walking, picking up garbage and debris.

It’s inspiring to see so many people come together to care for the place we call home. Let’s not make this a once-a-year effort let’s stay committed every day to keeping our community clean, green, and thriving.

Happy Earth Day!