FEO Staff, May 14, 2026, Volume 7, Issue 18
Council met on April 27, 2026, for a Regular Council Meeting, with Councillor Flagg and Regional Councillor Insinna absent.
Mayor Redekop thanked those who participated in Earth Day and Spring cleanup initiatives throughout April, and hopes to expand the initiative through more formalized programs in the coming year.
Other announcements included Council submitting comments to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing before Bill 100’s committee hearings, the Fire Department’s Annual Awards Banquet on Saturday, May 2, and the Mayor and CAO having a meeting scheduled with MPP Sam Oosterhoff to discuss municipal concerns.
Council moved to closed session, resulting in appointments to the Bridgeburg Station Downtown Business Improvement Area Board of Management, the Senior Citizens Advisory Committee and the Ridgeway Business Improvement Area Board of Management.
Council then recognized Fort Erie siblings, Daniel and Lily Taras, for their exceptional achievements in wrestling at SOSSA and OFSAA Championships, presenting them with certificates of recognition.
Town Staff provided an overview of proposed Bill 98, Building Homes and Improving Transportation Infrastructure Act, 2026, and discussed how it may impact the Town of Fort Erie’s zoning and planning development. The Town is seeking clarification on the Bill, as there are still questions regarding municipal ramifications.
Councillor McDermott acknowledged and raised concerns surrounding the suspected chemical spill at Durez Canada Company, resulting in odour and physical health-related concerns experienced by residents. Councillor McDermott has requested that the Ministry of Environment, which is responsible for responding to events such as this one, provide a report on the incident that includes air quality testing, public communication, existing mechanisms for notifying affected municipalities, and repercussions for Fort Erie residents.
Councillor Noyes sought clarification on youth programming at the Fort Erie Tennis Club and received confirmation that the club will not continue its 2026 youth programming. In response, the Town is looking to hire Tennis Professionals to deliver in-house youth programs.
Councillor Lewis presented a motion that will be deferred to August 24, 2026, regarding Niagara Health and Fort Erie Urgent Care, Douglas Memorial Site, expressing discontent with collaboration, false promises, and lack of communication, calling for the resignation of the Niagara Health Board of Directors and the Chief Executive Officer, asking the provincial Premier and Minister of Health to appoint a provincial supervisor to oversee operations at Niagara Health to ensure funding and operations continue in Fort Erie in order to meet local health needs. Councillors provided comments calling for more robust solutions, commitments, and support regarding healthcare in Niagara.
