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]