Submitted by Christine Whelan

Dec 16, 2021, VOL. 3 ISSUE 9

There has been a lot of discussion about the draft Niagara Region Official Plan and how it should not only plan for growth but also protect our natural heritage system, our wetlands and greenspace. The staff report came forward again as the Planning Department was now at a point that direction on how to proceed was at a critical point. There were several options that had been presented to Council the last few months with some adding little protection to our environment to others that would entrench the safety and security of our natural heritage system and wetlands. It came down to the options of 3B or 3C, 3B being one that would give some protection of the environment but decision making would be left to the individual municipalities and would not protect the linkages between ecological areas. Linkages are existing natural buffers that connect natural areas and they can be fields, thickets, woodlands or wetlands, for example, they are natural paths for wildlife. Option 3C protects those linkages regardless of municipal boundaries and urban areas. I have simplified this but in essence, 3C gives the most protection we can give to our environment in our area,  many natural heritage systems cross many municipal boundaries and this option takes away any thought of one local municipality doing one thing and something else by another. I along with Mayor Redekop stood fast for option 3C and made our case as Council neared a vote. I shared a conversation with Council that I had with my granddaughter about our environment and the upcoming vote, as she stated “why wouldn’t adults do everything they can to protect the environment for them and for their grandkids”. She was absolutely right, why wouldn’t we?  Seeing what was happening in British Colombia only exemplified this. At the final vote option, 3C was adopted unanimously. I would like to thank all those who contacted me and discussed the options and what was best for our environment, your time and patience with me is greatly appreciated.

Construction on Dominion Rd between Beachview and Lakeshore Rd (to the Old Fort) should begin shortly. Rankin Construction was awarded the contract that would see a total reconstruction of the road along with a traffic circle at the intersection of Dominion and Lakeshore Rd.

Last week saw the last of many budget meetings that were held the past three months. The Region Levy was discussed at great length with many differing opinions being offered. A final decision was made at the Budget Committee meeting and will be ratified on December 16 at which time I will be able to give an accurate percentage increase.

It appears that the Covid virus just won’t go away and we are again getting hit with another variant. The number of people ending up in hospitals continues to climb. I do not want to belabour this, please if you haven’t already, get vaccinated, follow Public Health guidelines; wash your hands frequently, physical distance and wear a mask if you can.

I would like to take this time to express my sincere thanks to everyone in Fort Erie for your support, your emails and conversations. A special thank you to Jen at the Observer for allowing me to keep the residents in Fort Erie informed on Regional Niagara matters.

During the holiday season, it is my hope that you are able to spend time with loved ones and embrace the joy that it brings. From my family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!