Reaction has started to pour in after comments made last week by Niagara Regional Chair Bob Gale about the possibility of amalgamation in Niagara.
Niagara-on-the-Lake Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa says he is firmly opposed to any forced consolidation, arguing the idea was advanced without consultation and threatens the town’s historic identity, local governance, and economic stability.
Fort Erie has also raised concerns, with Mayor Wayne Redekop questioning the authority and rushed timeline of the review, and calling for a data-driven business case and full public consultation before any governance changes are considered.
In contrast, Port Colborne says it supports examining upper-tier governance to improve efficiency and control infrastructure costs, but insists any review must be transparent and respect the distinct needs of Niagara’s diverse communities.
Gale, who was appointed regional chair by Premier Doug Ford late last year, has asked municipalities to provide feedback on a potential governance review by March 3rd.
(Written by: Matt Latour)