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Presentations
7.1 Indigenous Relations Advisor Brian Kon delivered a presentation regarding Indigenous Colonial Relations.
Delegations
8.1 Aaron Butler from NPG Planning Solutions Inc. delegated on item 11.3 c
8.2 Maureen Anthes from 25 Third Avenue provided a written delegation on item 11.3 c
Mayor’s Report
Mayor Steele spoke about discussions regarding potential changes to regional governance in Niagara, including the possibility of amalgamation following the letter from Niagara Regional Chair Bob Gale. He noted concerns about how the discussion has come about, and affirmed that Port Colborne is a strong, independent community. He stated that he does not believe in forced amalgamation, and emphasized that discussions of this magnitude – which would fundamentally reshape how our communities are governed – must be approached thoughtfully and transparently, with meaningful consultation involving municipalities, residents, and community partners. While recognizing that there are challenges worth examining, Mayor Steele said he supports a serious, constructive review focused on improving coordination, reducing duplication, and ensuring value for taxpayers. However, he emphasized that a review of governance does not automatically mean amalgamation. He referenced scholarly research and experiences across Ontario that show amalgamation is not a guaranteed path to cost savings or improved outcomes. Mayor Steele encouraged residents to share their feedback directly with Regional Chair Bob Gale (bob.gale@niagararegion.ca) or with him at mayor@portcolborne.ca, noting that the deadline for comments is next week and encouraging residents to submit feedback as early as possible. He added that the City has posted information on the Port Colborne website to help residents stay informed, and reiterated his commitment to transparency. He concluded by affirming that Council and senior staff believe there is a better path forward – one focused on practical solutions rather than large-scale amalgamation.
Staff Reports
11.3 a. Council approved a Brownfield Tax Increment Grant (TIG) with Development Charge Grant under the Comprehensive CIP submitted by Cornerstone Homes (Niagara) Ltd. for 714 and 706 King Street in Port Colborne.
11.3 b. Council received an update on previously approved capital projects pertaining to the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions at the Vale Health & Wellness Centre and City Hall.
11.3 c. Council approved a Draft Plan of Subdivision to facilitate the redevelopment of the lands legally known as Part of Lots 31, 32 & 33, Concession 1, and part of the road allowance between Townships of Wainfleet and Humberstone, and Part of the road allowance between Lots 32 & 33. Council directed staff to undertake a review of options to manage and control traffic on Third Avenue, and report back in May 2026.
11.3 d. Council approved an Agreement of Purchase and Sale and by-law to formally approve the sale of the part of Raglan Street (also known as Bell Street) St Plan 843 in the City of Port Colborne Part 1 on Plan 59R-18513
11.3 e. Council approved a formal request to include the vacant property at 395 Elm Street in the Downtown Community Improvement Plan (CIP) area to be eligible for grants and incentives within the CIP.
Correspondence Items
11.4 a. Council received the County of Prince Edward’s Bill 21 – Protect our Food Act to ensure the future of agriculture in Ontario for future generations.
11.4 b. Council received the City of St. Catharines’ motion to discontinue the use of the social media platform X.
11.4 c. Council received the Council of the Township of Joly’s resolution to support Canada’s steel and softwood lumber industries.
11.4 d. Council received a letter regarding Regional Governance in Niagara from the Office of the Regional Chair.
Items Requiring Separate Discussion
12.1 Council received the 2025 Nickel Beach annual report, and reviewed an overview of plans for the 2026 Nickel Beach season.
12.2 Council approved the City’s next steps in managing greenhouse gas emissions from municipal operations as part of the Partners for Climate Protection (PCP) Program and Corporate Climate Action Plan.
Staff Remarks
Director of Public Works Steve Shypowskyj discussed the Region’s waste management contract renewal and noted that the Region’s Public Works committee has approved a recommendation to extend the current curbside waste collection contract to 2030.
Chief Planner Erik Acs said work is continuing on the City’s New Official Plan, and an Official Plan Policy Report is now available to read on the City’s website (portcolborne.ca/newofficialplan). He also encouraged residents to submit feedback through the online feedback form.
Manager of Corporate Communications Jasmine Peazel-Graham discussed the City’s website redesign project and announced that the City identified a successful vendor for the project through the RFP process. She said public consultation and community feedback will be incorporated throughout the website's redesign process.
Manager of Recreation and Tourism Greg Zwiep recognized the dedication of all volunteers involved in the Port Colborne Minor Hockey Association.
Chief Administrative Officer Bryan Boles said that staff are committed to the City’s goals and look forward to moving important initiatives and projects forward. He said community consultations on healthcare will be discussed in the coming months.
Councillors’ Remarks
Councillor Bodner asked about garbage collection at Pleasant Beach. He thanked staff for addressing his concerns.
Councillor Hoyle thanked staff for answering his questions. He reminded the community to reach out to Councillors with their questions regarding potential governance changes.
Councillor Elliott inquired about the website redesign project, and approaches to other purchasing directives. He supported the Mayor’s statement regarding potential governance changes in Niagara, and encouraged residents to visit Port Colborne’s website for more information on amalgamation.
Councillor Bruno noted that Regional Chair Bob Gale previously attended a Port Colborne Council Meeting, although amalgamation was not on the agenda.
Councillor Bagu thanked Director of Public Works Steve Shypowskyj for addressing his concerns over the weekend. He said he will attend the State of the Region address on Friday, Feb. 27.
Councillor Beauregard thanked Director of Public Works Steve Shypowskyj for addressing his concerns. He affirmed support for Port Colborne’s independence.
Councillor Aquilina thanked staff for their hard work over the past days. She asked about road end key access for residents.
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