A New Term of Fort Erie Council Begins Monday
On Monday, November 16, the Town of Fort Erie will mark the beginning of a new term of Council with the official inaugural meeting and swearing-in ceremony. This occasion represents an important moment for our community as we welcome a new Mayor, many returning Councillors and a few face on Council. This starts a new chapter in municipal leadership for Fort Erie. I want to once again thank the residents of Ward 5, Crystal Beach and Ridgeway, for placing their trust and confidence in me to serve another term on Fort Erie Town Council. It is an honour and a responsibility that I take very seriously.
I also want to congratulate again incoming Mayor Tom Insinna as he prepares to take office, along with all members of the 2026–2030 Fort Erie Town Council. Since the municipal election, I have discussioned with Mayor-elect Insinna about the direction of our municipality, the challenges ahead and the importance of establishing a productive working relationship. I have also take the oppritunity to ask him about how he plans to involve Council in his decision making. While we may not always agree on every issue or approach, I believe that respectful dialogue, transparency and meaningful collaboration are essential to effective municipal government. I look forward to working with Mayor Insinna and having his full support in advancing the issues that matter most to the residents of Fort Erie, particularly those in Ward 5, Crystal Beach and Ridgeway.
With a new Mayor and a Council that includes considerable experience and institutional knowledge, we have an opportunity to build on the progress already made while bringing fresh perspectives and ideas to the table. Strong municipal leadership is not about any one individual. It is about listening, respecting the responsibilities of Council as a whole, making informed decisions with councils input and working together in the best interests of the community.
Throughout the recent municipal election, residents shared their priorities, concerns and expectations for the next four years. Those conversations will continue to guide my work on Council. Among my priorities are the following:
– Protecting and strengthening local health care, including continued advocacy for urgent care services, physician recruitment and the development of a Community Health Hub.
– Investing in roads, sidewalks, drainage and infrastructure while ensuring municipal resources are managed responsibly.
– Improving traffic and pedestrian safety throughout Crystal Beach, Ridgeway and Fort Erie.
– Supporting responsible growth and development that respects the character of our established neighbourhoods while be balance Provincial policy direction.
– Strengthening our local economy, supporting small businesses and advancing opportunities through initiatives such as the Crystal Beach Community Improvement Plan and others.
– Improving access to Bay Beach, recreation and community amenities for residents and families while looking for new waterfront oppritunities.
– Maintaining responsible taxation and financial accountability while protecting the municipal services residents depend on.
– Ensuring Fort Erie’s voice is heard in discussions about regional governance and the future of local decision-making both locally and at the Region.
These are not simply election commitments. They are ongoing priorities that require cooperation, thoughtful planning and a willingness to work together to achieve meaningful results.
As we begin this new term, I believe it is important to recognize the dedicated municipal staff who serve our community every day, along with the experience and perspectives that each member of Council brings to the table. There will undoubtedly be difficult decisions ahead. There will also be opportunities to improve how we deliver services, invest in our community and respond to the changing needs of residents.
I have always believed that change can be positive, but it must be thoughtful, transparent, evidence-based and undertaken with a clear understanding of its implications for residents, taxpayers and the municipality. Change for the sake of change is not good. As elected representatives, we each have an important role in municipal governance and a responsibility to ensure that decisions are made with appropriate oversight, accountability and public confidence.
My commitment is to approach this term with an open mind, a willingness to collaborate where collaboration is welcomed and the same determination to ask questions, challenge decisions when necessary and advocate for the people I represent in an open and transparent manner.
Monday’s inauguration is more than a ceremonial occasion. It marks the beginning of four years of important decisions that will help shape the future of Fort Erie. I am optimistic about what we can accomplish if and when we focus on our shared responsibilities and put the interests of residents first.
I look forward to working with Mayor Insinna, my Council colleagues, municipal staff and our community partners to build on the strong foundation that has been established and continue moving Fort Erie forward.
To the residents of Crystal Beach, Ridgeway and across Fort Erie, thank you for your continued engagement, encouragement and trust.
I look forward to the work ahead and the oppritunities that come with it.
Tom Lewis
Councillor, Ward 5 – Crystal Beach/Ridgeway
Town of Fort Erie
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