July 10th, 2025 • Volume 6 • Issue 22

Regional Councillor Tom Insinna

Budget Meetings – Beach Monitoring Program – Seniors Stepping Out – Pride Event – Advancing Crystal Beach

Budget meetings continue at the Region, where different departments provide an overview of their activities and the financial challenges they are facing. This is a continuation of what the Finance Department calls Phase 1 presentations. During this phase, department heads provide a breakdown of what can and cannot be done within the budgets allocated to them. Last week, we heard from Asset Management, Construction Energy and Facilities Management, Niagara Regional Housing and Transportation Services. It was quite apparent that the Region cannot continue on the same path and keep asking taxpayers to make up the shortfalls. For example, 45% of the pavement on Regional Roads is in fair to poor condition. Bridges that the Region is responsible for are at 46% fair to poor condition. There is a backlog of work totalling $110 million that needs to be done, but the capital funds are not there. Please be assured that all roads and bridges are safe to travel on, but perhaps a bit bumpy. During Phase 1, there was no mention of how money would be generated to cover all these costs; this will come in Phase 2, starting in September/October.

Public Health gave a presentation regarding the Beach Monitoring Program. Once again, Public Health will be continuing the Beach Surveillance program. The authority for Public Health to test the waters is provided under the Ontario Health Protection and Promotion Act. There are 19 beaches in the Region, with 12 being on Lake Erie. The beach water is to be sampled at least once per week, with some being sampled twice. There are five samples taken at each beach and are tested for E. coli. Public Health will issue warnings if the lab results merit. The Beach Water Testing website is available on the Niagara Region website and is regularly updated. It is best to check before diving in.

I had the opportunity to attend the Seniors Stepping Out event, which was organized by the Town of Fort Erie Senior Citizens’ Advisory Committee. There were many regional and local groups that participated, each explaining their roles and how they can assist seniors in our community. It is a tremendous event that connects seniors with the many agencies seeking volunteers and providing critical assistance to those facing challenges. Thank you to the organizers and all those who participated.

I attended the Pride Event last week at the Leisureplex as I have for several years. I am astounded at the talent that entertains at the free event. As a community, we support diversity, equity, and inclusion, and it was very apparent at this gathering. Congratulations to all the organizers and to all who participated, making this a great event.

A special shout-out to Advancing Crystal Beach for their tireless work in developing that community in the Town of Fort Erie. ACB has now taken the next step and is currently launching a new Youth Program to encourage the many young leaders in our community to get involved. The group has also stepped up and is awarding two student bursaries to individuals who are continuing with their education. If you would like more information, please go to their website. Please be kind to others and keep smiling