Niagara Region, Ontario

Council

The agenda for the July 30, 2026, meeting of the Niagara Region Council is currently procedural and does not list specific decisions or items for discussion.

• Meeting scheduled for July 30, 2026
• Procedural agenda only
• No specific items listed

Council Special

The provided agenda contains only procedural software placeholders and boilerplate text. No specific decisions, proposals, or discussion items are listed.

Public Works Committee

The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and software interface text. There are no specific decisions, proposals, or discussion items listed.

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and software interface elements. There are no specific decisions, proposals, or discussion items listed.

Niagara Region Licensing Appeals Committee

The Licensing Appeals Committee will hear three appeals regarding the denial or refusal of Transportation Network Company driver licences. These hearings are conducted under Niagara Region By-law 2021-57 and the Statutory Powers Procedure Act.

• Appeal by Syed Ali Raza regarding denial of licence
• Appeal by Sukhvir Singh regarding refusal of licence application
• Appeal by Rauf Obembe regarding refusal of licence renewal

Corporate Services Committee

The Corporate Services Committee will consider delegating authority to issue debentures during the restricted acts period after nomination day for the 2026 municipal election. It will also discuss updates to the Building Communities Strong Fund with proposed funding reallocations and receive a report on Niagara Region policing cost allocation. Consent items include the 2025 Development Charges Treasurer's Statement and Q1 2026 non-competitive procurements over $100,000. The meeting includes closed session items on litigation, potential litigation, and land acquisition for the RR49 McLeod Road Reconstruction Project.

• Delegation of authority for debenture issuance during election restricted period (CSD 29-2026)
• Building Communities Strong Fund – proposed funding reallocation for community projects (CSD 28-2026)
• Niagara Region Policing Cost Allocation Update – report to be distributed (CSD 31-2026)
• 2025 Regional Development Charges Treasurer's Statement with reserve fund activity (CSD 20-2026)
• Q1 2026 corporate non-competitive procurement activities exceeding $100,000 (CSD 21-2026)

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The Planning and Economic Development Committee will receive a presentation regarding the Agriculture Action Plan Update. The meeting also includes a closed session discussion regarding Trade Impacted Community Program funding.

• Agriculture Action Plan Update presentation
• Trade Impacted Community Program (TICP) Funding discussion in closed session

PHSSC

The Public Health & Social Services Committee will discuss tobacco enforcement and the Nurse-Family Partnership Program. Members are deciding on a contract extension for social assistance and the approval of several public health and emergency services program audits.

• Social Assistance Contract Extension Approval for 2045162 Ontario Limited o/a Clark Marketing Communications
• Approval of Public Health and Emergency Services Program Audits
• Early Years and Child Care Expansion Update
• Correspondence regarding single source plumbing work at 30 Robinson Street, Grimsby
• Proposed lease of 5017 Victoria Avenue, Niagara Falls

Public Works Committee

The committee will review a gross budget adjustment for the Seventh Street Bridge on Regional Road 34 in St. Catharines. It will also consider upgrades to the Quarry Road Landfill leachate management system and the initiation of funds and a direct award for archaeological assessment related to the South Niagara wastewater treatment plant solutions projects. Additional consent items include a regional growth report, appointment of by‑law officers for the Sewer Use By‑law, and a short‑term waste disposal capacity study.

• PW 18-2026: Gross budget adjustment for Seventh Street Bridge on RR34 (Seventh Street Louth)
• PW 20-2026: Quarry Road Landfill leachate management system upgrades
• PW 22-2026: Initiation of funds and direct award for archaeological assessment for South Niagara WWTP solutions projects
• PWC-C 9-2026: Appointment of by‑law officers for enforcement of Sewer Use By‑law No. 2024‑51
• PWC-C 10-2026: Short‑term waste disposal capacity study

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will receive a presentation on Development Charges Overview and Background Study, and consider a consent item on the Development Charges Background Study and By-law Update – Post Period Benefit. The meeting is primarily focused on reviewing development charge matters.

• Presentation by Daryl Abbs, Watson & Associates, on Development Charges Overview and Background Study
• Consent item CSC-C 16-2026: Development Charges Background Study and By-law Update – Post Period Benefit

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee will receive presentations on two informational reports: an audit report on managing waste collection contractors and a status update on internal audit engagements for Q2 2026. No items are listed for consideration or decision at this meeting.

• Audit Report on Managing Waste Collection Contractors (AC-C 11-2026) with KPMG advisory summary
• Status Update on Internal Audit Engagements for Q2 2026 (AC-C 10-2026)

Council

Council will consider a budget amendment for the Niagara Regional Police Service Special Enforcement Unit. The agenda also includes an update on the Core Services Review and a by-law to authorize $8,402,000 in long-term financing for capital works.

• Niagara Regional Police Service budget amendment for Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit
• By-law authorizing $8,402,000 in long-term financing for a capital works project
• Update on the Niagara Region Core Services Review
• Response to Inquest Q2025-31 from the Office of the Chief Coroner of Ontario
• Delegation of Authority for restricted acts following 2026 Municipal Election nomination day

Niagara Region Licensing Appeals Committee

The Licensing Appeals Committee is meeting to hear three appeals from individuals whose applications for renewal of Transportation Network Company driver licences were refused under Niagara Region By-law 2021-57. The appeals are for Vats Trivedi, Atif Ishtiaq, and Muhammed Ahtsham. No other business is on the agenda.

• Appeal of Vats Trivedi – refusal of TNC driver licence renewal under By-law 2021-57
• Appeal of Atif Ishtiaq – refusal of TNC driver licence renewal under By-law 2021-57
• Appeal of Muhammed Ahtsham – refusal of TNC driver licence renewal under By-law 2021-57

Waste Management Planning Steering Committee

The Waste Management Planning Steering Committee will review presentations on the 2030 curbside waste collection contract service level options and an outline of the illegal dumping strategy, which will determine future waste collection services and neighborhood cleanup efforts. The agenda also covers councillor information requests and a York University study on illegal dumping best practices. No binding decisions or votes are scheduled for this meeting.

• Review of 2030 curbside waste collection contract service level options
• Discussion of the outline for the illegal dumping strategy
• Review of a York University study on illegal dumping best practices
• Councillor information requests

Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee is reviewing several presentations. These include a long-term waste management strategy and the 2026-2030 Indigenous Truth and ReconciliAction Plan.

• Waste Management Long-Term Strategy presentation
• Indigenous Truth and ReconciliAction Plan 2026-2030 presentation
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Committee Term Summary 2023-2026

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will meet to consider tender authority for a road project between Regional Road 10 and 49, and to review applications for the Safer School Zones program funded by the Road Safety Infrastructure Fund.

• Delegation authority for tender award on Regional Road 10-49
• Safer School Zones – Road Safety Infrastructure Fund applications
• Transportation Strategy Steering Committee minutes
• Presentation on Niagara 2051 Transportation Master Plan

The Public Works Committee approved delegating tender award authority for road reconstruction projects on Casablanca Boulevard and McLeod Road. The committee also adopted updated school and community safety zone standards and directed staff to apply for the Road Safety Infrastructure Fund.

• Delegated authority to award tender for Regional Road 10 (Casablanca Boulevard) Reconstruction Phase 1 (Carried)
• Delegated authority to award tender for Regional Road 49 (McLeod Road) Reconstruction (Carried)
• Authorized execution of construction agreements for Projects 1 and 2 (Carried)
• Adopted updated School Zone and Community Safety Zone standards (Carried)
• Directed staff to apply for the Road Safety Infrastructure Fund (Carried)
• Received Transportation Strategy Steering Committee minutes from May 27, 2026, for information (Carried)

Agricultural Policy and Action Committee

The Agricultural Policy and Action Committee will meet electronically on May 29, 2026, to receive presentations on invasive species, agritourism, and phragmites management. No decisions are scheduled for this meeting.

• Presentation on Spotted Lanternfly threat
• Presentation on Agritourism Ontario
• Presentation on Niagara Phragmites Management Area
• Review of Greenbelt Foundation Report
• Review of February 2026 meeting minutes

The Agricultural Policy and Action Committee met on May 29, 2026, and received informational presentations on agritourism, phragmites management, and spotted lanternfly. No items for consideration were on the agenda. Consent items—a Greenbelt Foundation report overview and previous meeting minutes—were received. Other business updates covered salt management, irrigation, soil health, and economic development. No substantive decisions were made.

Council Special

Niagara Region Council will hold a public meeting to hear a complaint regarding development charges for a property at 3770 Montrose Road in Niagara Falls. The meeting will also include the adoption of a confirming by-law for the council's actions.

• Public hearing for development charges complaint at 3770 Montrose Road, Niagara Falls
• By-law 2026-23 to confirm council actions from the special meeting
• Staff report and legal counsel materials provided for the complaint

Council held a statutory public hearing on a development charges complaint by Cassone Dwelling (BT) Inc. for 3770 Montrose Road in Niagara Falls. After legal arguments, council voted 19-5 to grant the complaint, ordering recalculation of charges using frozen 2022 rates and a $1,166,074 demolition credit, resulting in a net charge of approximately $2,740,557 plus interest.

• Defeated motion to dismiss development charges complaint (5-19)
• Granted complaint and ordered recalculation of development charges using frozen 2022 rates with demolition credit (19-5)

Council

Regional Council will consider borrowing $16.18 million for capital projects and review multiple traffic by-laws for Grimsby, Fort Erie, and posted speed limits. The meeting also includes committee reports and closed sessions.

• Authorize $16.18M in regional debt capital markets
• Authorize $7.42M in Welland debt capital markets
• Amend traffic by-law for prohibited turns in Grimsby
• Amend traffic by-law for all-way stop in Grimsby
• Amend traffic by-law for parking prohibition in Fort Erie

Regional Council adopted committee reports including endorsement of alcohol warning labels, approved $16.18M in debentures for capital works in Welland and Niagara Region, and approved a confidential settlement of an Ontario Land Tribunal quarry appeal. Several traffic by-laws were also passed.

• Approved $7.42M debenture for Welland capital works
• Approved $8.76M debenture for Niagara Region capital works
• Approved $16.18M consolidated debenture issue
• Approved traffic by-laws (prohibited turns, all-way stop, parking prohibition, speed limits) on regional highways
• Endorsed alcohol labelling position policy supporting Bill S-202 (warning labels on alcoholic beverages)
• Approved confidential settlement of Uppers Quarry (Niagara Falls) appeal to Ontario Land Tribunal

Transportation Strategy Steering Committee

The Transportation Strategy Steering Committee will receive a presentation on the Niagara Transportation Plan 2051 Public Information Centre content. No items are up for decision; the agenda also includes a terms-of-reference review update and approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Presentation on Niagara Transportation Plan 2051 Public Information Centre content
• Update on Transportation Strategy Steering Committee Terms of Reference review
• Approval of March 25, 2026, meeting minutes

The committee received updates on its Terms of Reference and the minutes from the previous meeting. No substantive decisions were made regarding the Niagara Region Transportation Plan 2051.

• Received Terms of Reference update for information
• Received March 2026 meeting minutes for information

Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Niagara Region Accessibility Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on May 26, 2026. The agenda indicates a procedural meeting with no specific items listed for discussion or decision.

• Meeting scheduled for May 26, 2026
• Procedural meeting type indicated

The committee received two informational items and discussed an accessible taxi survey. The meeting adjourned early after the chair announced that quorum had been lost.

• Received 2025 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan status update for information
• Received October 21, 2025 meeting minutes for information
• Announced meeting adjourned due to lost quorum

Niagara Region Licensing Appeals Committee

The Niagara Region Licensing Appeals Committee will hear four appeals from Transportation Network Company drivers whose licence renewals were refused under By-law 2021-57. The appellants are Shashang Soni, Iqbal Khan, Gurpreet Singh Lobana, and Vikash Kumar. Each hearing will be conducted under the Statutory Powers Procedure Act.

• Shashang Soni – appeal of refusal to renew TNC driver licence
• Iqbal Khan – appeal of refusal to renew TNC driver licence
• Gurpreet Singh Lobana – appeal of refusal to renew TNC driver licence
• Vikash Kumar – appeal of refusal to renew TNC driver licence

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee will review the 2025 audited consolidated financial statements for the Region of Niagara and consider internal audit updates. The committee will also receive draft audited financial statements for Niagara Regional Housing, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, and Court Services.

• Review 2025 audited consolidated financial statements
• Review internal audit update presentation
• Review whistleblower complaint reporting audit report
• Review Niagara Regional Housing 2025 draft audited financial statements
• Review Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority 2025 financial statements

The Audit Committee approved the 2025 audited consolidated financial statements for Niagara Region, including sinking and trust fund statements. The audit findings report was received for information, and staff were directed to finalize the statements. Several consent items were also received for information, including internal audit status updates and financial reports from regional entities.

• Approved 2025 audited consolidated financial statements (Carried)
• Received 2025 audit findings report for information (Carried)
• Directed staff to co-ordinate with auditors to finalize statements (Carried)
• Received status update on internal audit engagements for information (Carried)
• Received Whistleblower Complaint Reporting and Investigation Audit Report (Carried)
• Received Semi-Annual Whistleblower-Type Complaints Summary (Carried)
• Received Niagara Regional Housing 2025 Draft Audited Financial Statements (Carried)
• Received Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority 2025 Financial Statements (Carried)

Corporate Services Committee

The Corporate Services Committee will consider issuing 2026 debentures for capital projects and review recommendations from the Joint Board of Management regarding Niagara Courts. The committee will also hear a presentation on the consolidation of conservation authorities.

• CSC-C 12-2026: Recommendations from the Joint Board of Management for Niagara Courts
• CSD 16-2026: Debt Information Report for 2026 Debenture Issuance
• Presentation on Regional Consolidation of Conservation Authorities
• Report on Sustainable Municipal Funding Advocacy (CAO 9-2026)
• Closed session regarding proposed land acquisition at 345 Prince Charles Drive N, Welland

The committee approved a resolution directing the Acting Regional Chair to write to Ontario Attorney General Doug Downey asking for a review of the fine amounts and costs set out in Regulation 915 of the Provincial Offences Act. The same resolution was ordered to be forwarded to the Attorney General, other municipalities, the Ministry of the Attorney General, the Ontario Municipal Tax and Revenue Association and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario. The committee also approved the recommendations for the proposed acquisition of land at 345 Prince Charles Drive N in the City of Welland. Additionally, the committee received for information a debt information report on the 2026 debenture issuance, a report on sustainable municipal funding advocacy, and a confidential update on the CUPE 911 collective bargaining.

• Directed Acting Regional Chair to send letter to Attorney General Doug Downey requesting review of fine amounts (approved)
• Ordered resolution to be forwarded to Attorney General and other municipalities/agencies (approved)
• Approved recommendations for proposed acquisition of land at 345 Prince Charles Drive N, Welland (approved)
• Received Debt Information Report – 2026 Debenture Issuance for information (carried)
• Received Report on Sustainable Municipal Funding Advocacy for information (carried)
• Received Confidential CUPE 911 collective bargaining update for information (carried)

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The Niagara Region Planning and Economic Development Committee will review an economic update and a 2025 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan progress report. The agenda contains no items for formal consideration, voting, or public hearings. This meeting is primarily procedural and informational.

• ED 5-2026 Economic Update presentation and discussion
• PDS 10-2026 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan 2025 Progress Update
• Next meeting scheduled for June 10, 2026

The Planning and Economic Development Committee had no items for consideration. Two reports – the Economic Update (ED 5‑2026) and the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Action Plan 2025 Progress Update (PDS 10‑2026) – were received for information and carried. The meeting adjourned without further decisions.

• Report ED 5‑2026 (Economic Update) received for information, carried
• Report PDS 10‑2026 (DEI Action Plan 2025 Progress Update) received for information, carried

PHSSC

The Public Health & Social Services Committee will meet to discuss mental health updates, a delegation on street services, and consider endorsing a position on alcohol labelling. The meeting will also include a closed session.

• Endorsement of Bill S-202 Alcohol Labelling Position Policy
• Mental Health and Addictions Working Group Update
• HART Hub Niagara presentation
• Update on Housing First Assertive Community Treatment Service
• Delegation from Positive Living Niagara on street services

The committee approved a report endorsing a statement from provincial/territorial chief medical officers supporting federal action through Bill S-202, which would require warning labels on alcoholic beverages. They also directed the Acting Regional Chair to write a letter to the Senate committee expressing support. Presentations were received on mental health and addictions, the HART Hub, and the Housing First Assertive Community Treatment Service. Consent items on seniors services, homelessness, and housing first updates were received for information.

• Approved endorsement of Bill S-202 alcohol labelling position policy and directed letter to Senate committee (Carried)
• Received consent items: Seniors Services Quality Improvement Report (COM 10-2026), Homelessness Addiction Recovery and Treatment Hub Update (COM-C 17-2026), Housing First Assertive Community Treatment Service Update (PHD-C 10-2026), Mental Health and Addiction Working Group Update (PHD-C 11-2026) (Carried)
• Approved confidential report MOH 2-2026 regarding personal matters about an identifiable individual (Carried)

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will review the Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Control Program funding recommendations for 2026, including requested amounts and conditions. It will also consider the Waste Management Planning Steering Committee’s recommendation on waste management matters. Additionally, the committee will receive information on 2025 water and wastewater treatment capacities and a digital transition overview of the Waste Collection Guide.

• PW 14-2026 – Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Control Program 2026 funding recommendations (with four appendices)
• PWC-C 8-2026 – Recommendation from the Waste Management Planning Steering Committee
• PW 15-2026 – 2025 Reserve Water and Wastewater Treatment Capacities (information for Ministry and municipalities)
• PWC-C 7-2026 – Waste Collection Guide: Digital Transition Overview

The Public Works Committee approved funding recommendations for the Combined Sewer Overflow Control Program and directed staff to advocate for changes to the Blue Box regulatory framework at an upcoming conference. The committee also received information on water treatment capacities and a digital waste collection guide.

• Authorized staff to award Combined Sewer Overflow Control Program funding to Local Area Municipalities
• Directed staff to request a delegation at the 2026 AMO Annual Conference
• Received for information: 2025 Reserve Water and Wastewater Treatment Capacities
• Received for information: Waste Collection Guide Digital Transition Overview

Council

The Niagara Region Council will review a request from the Niagara Transit Commission to transition temporary full-time equivalent positions to permanent. The body will also consider a by-law to appoint Municipal Bylaw Enforcement Officers and receive updates on regional governance and asset management.

• Request to transition temporary Full-Time Equivalent positions to permanent for Niagara Transit Commission (Report NTC 8-2026)
• Bill 2026-21: By-law to appoint Municipal Bylaw Enforcement Officers and repeal By-law 2025-18
• Presentation on Niagara Parks Commission 2026 Updates and Initiatives
• Report CAO 8-2026 regarding Area CAO discussions on governance and service delivery
• Correspondence on historical tax and rate increases (CL-C 21-2026)

Regional Council approved a request to make a Niagara Transit Commission position permanent and approved the 2025 performance appraisal of the Chief Administrative Officer. The Council also voted to refer a by-law enforcement bill to committee and defeated a motion supporting the Town of Fort Erie's response to provincial governance proposals.

• Approved NTC request to transition temporary FTE to permanent (Carried)
• Approved CAO 2025 performance appraisal (Carried)
• Defeated Bill 2026-21 (By-law Enforcement Officers) 16-11
• Referred Bill 2026-21 to Corporate Services Committee (Defeated)
• Approved Bill 2026-22 (Confirming actions) (Carried)
• Defeated motion to support Fort Erie's governance response 15-12
• Referred Fort Erie governance response to Corporate Services Committee (Carried)
• Received Committee of the Whole minutes (Carried)

Waste Management Planning Steering Committee

The Waste Management Planning Steering Committee will hear a series of informational presentations. Topics include the 2026 Waste Management Workplan, a digital transition overview for the waste collection guide, and a landfill report. Additional items cover the Battery Collection Program agreement with Call2Recycle Canada Inc., legislative amendments to the Blue Box program, and a performance report for the collection contractor. No items are listed for formal decision at this meeting.

• Presentation of the Waste Management 2026 Workplan
• Digital Transition Overview for the Waste Collection Guide
• Battery Collection Program – Agreement with Call2Recycle Canada Inc.
• Blue Box Transition – Legislative Amendments Affecting Non‑Residential Sources (April 2026)
• Collection Contractor Performance Report (Oct 19 2024 to Oct 18 2025)

The Waste Management Planning Steering Committee received 10 information items, including the 2026 workplan and a digital transition overview for the waste collection guide. The committee also received a report on the Blue Box transition and recommended that the Public Works Committee request a delegation to the 2026 AMO Annual Conference to advocate for recycling service gaps.

• Received Waste Management 2026 Workplan for information
• Received Waste Collection Guide: Digital Transition Overview for information
• Received W2RO 2025 State of Waste in Ontario – Landfill Report for information
• Received Councillor Information Requests for information
• Received Battery Collection Program: Agreement with Call2Recycle Canada Inc. for information
• Received Blue Box Transition: Legislative Amendments Affecting Non-Residential Sources for information
• Recommended Public Works Committee request delegation at 2026 AMO Annual Conference to advocate for recycling service gaps
• Received Collection Contractor Performance Report for information

Joint Board of Management

The Joint Board of Management for Niagara Courts is meeting to consider the 2025 draft audited schedule of revenues and expenses. The board will also review a report on set fines under the Provincial Offences Act.

• Court Services 2025 Draft Audited Schedule of Revenues, Expenses, and Funds Available for Distribution
• Court Services Report on Set Fines under the Provincial Offences Act
• 2025 Year End Report for Provincial Offences Court
• Recognition of 25 Years of Excellence in Court Services

The board approved the 2025 draft audited schedule of revenues, expenses and funds available for distribution for Niagara Court Services. Staff were directed to coordinate with the auditor to finalize the statements and the report was forwarded to the Region’s Audit Committee and the Ministry of the Attorney General. The board also approved a recommendation that the Regional Council ask the Attorney General to review the set fine amounts and costs under the Provincial Offences Act, and the resolution was forwarded to the Attorney General and relevant municipal associations. The board received three items for information: the 2025 Year End Report for the Provincial Offences Court, a recognition of 25 years of excellence in Court Services, and the February 19, 2026 meeting minutes.

• Approved 2025 draft audited schedule for Court Services (Report JBM-C 3-2026)
• Directed staff to coordinate with auditor to finalize statements (Report JBM-C 3-2026)
• Forwarded audit schedule report to Audit Committee and Ministry of Attorney General (Report JBM-C 3-2026)
• Approved recommendation to request Attorney General review of set fines under Provincial Offences Act (Report JBM-C 5-2026)
• Forwarded fine‑review resolution to Attorney General and municipal associations (Report JBM-C 5-2026)
• Received 2025 Year End Report for Provincial Offences Court for information (JBM-C 4-2026)
• Received recognition of 25 years of excellence in Court Services for information (JBM-C 6-2026)
• Received February 19, 2026 meeting minutes for information (JBM 1-2026)

Women's Advisory Committee

The Women's Advisory Committee will hear a presentation on Niagara's Housing and Homelessness Action Plan 2026-2036 from the project manager. It will also review the committee's term summary for 2023-2026 and receive updates on the Equal Voice Niagara Workshop. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as call to order and disclosure of interests.

• Presentation on Niagara's Housing and Homelessness Action Plan 2026-2036
• Women's Advisory Committee Term Summary (2023-2026)
• Equal Voice Niagara Workshop updates
• Approval of January 27, 2026 meeting minutes

The Women's Advisory Committee approved the receipt of the January 27, 2026 meeting minutes as an item for information. No other motions were taken. The meeting featured presentations on the regional Housing and Homelessness Action Plan and the committee’s 2023‑2026 term summary, and an update on Equal Voice Niagara events. A future meeting date was not set.

• Carried receipt of WAC 1-2026 minutes (January 27, 2026) for information

Niagara Region Licensing Appeals Committee

The Niagara Region Licensing Appeals Committee will hear appeals from three Transportation Network Company drivers regarding license refusals and suspensions under By-law 2021-57.

• Hearing for Nirmalan Jeyandrakumar (License Renewal Refusal)
• Hearing for Mahamat Ali Abdelaziz (License Renewal Refusal)
• Hearing for Mohammad Sabbir Hossain (License Suspension)
• Appeals heard under Niagara Region By-law 2021-57
• Meeting held at Business Licensing Office, 250 Thorold Road, Welland

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The Planning and Economic Development Committee will receive three informational items: a physician recruitment update, the Niagara Region Indigenous Truth and ReconciliAction Plan for 2026-2030, and a shared services update. No decisions are being made in open session. The committee will also enter closed session to discuss a proposed land disposition at Livingston Avenue, Grimsby, and other confidential matters.

• Physician Recruitment Update (ED 4-2026) with presentation
• Niagara Region Indigenous Truth and ReconciliAction Plan 2026-2030 (PDS 9-2026)
• Shared Services Update (PDS-C 2-2026)
• Closed session: Proposed disposition of land at Livingston Avenue, Grimsby (Confidential PDS 8-2026)

The Planning and Economic Development Committee received three informational reports: a physician recruitment update, the Indigenous Truth and ReconciliAction Plan as a five-year plan, and a shared services update. The only decision was approval of a confidential report regarding a proposed land disposition at Livingston Avenue in Grimsby. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved confidential land disposition at Livingston Avenue, Grimsby (carried unanimously)
• Received Physician Recruitment Update (Report ED 4-2026) for information
• Received Niagara Region Indigenous Truth and ReconciliAction Plan (Report PDS 9-2026) as a five-year plan
• Received Shared Services Update (Memorandum PDS-C 2-2026) for information

Corporate Services Committee

The Corporate Services Committee will consider transferring Niagara Region-owned land to the City of Welland and reviewing the Municipal Insurance Program renewal. The committee will also hear from Niagara College and two delegations.

• Transfer of Region-owned land to City of Welland
• Municipal Insurance Program renewal update
• St. Catharines Emergency Shelter Funding
• Delegation: Herb Sawatzky on 'A New Deal for Niagara'
• Delegation: Dave Barnett representing CUPE 911

The Committee approved a motion calling for a comprehensive review of the provincial-municipal fiscal framework and dedicated funding for tourism-supporting infrastructure. It also approved the transfer of Region-owned land at 456 River Road to the City of Welland for nominal consideration.

• Approved transfer of Region-owned land at 456 River Road, Welland to the City of Welland for nominal consideration (Carried)
• Approved motion for 'A New Deal for Niagara' calling for provincial fiscal framework review and federal funding expansion (15-0)
• Approved clause 2 of 'A New Deal for Niagara' motion regarding dedicated funding for tourism infrastructure and emergency services (9-6)
• Received for information: Municipal Insurance Program Renewal Update 2025-2026 (Carried)
• Received for information: Appointment of By-law Enforcement Officers for Business Licensing (Carried)
• Received for information: St. Catharines Emergency Shelter Funding (Carried)

PHSSC

The Public Health & Social Services Committee is meeting to review the 2026 Public Health Annual Service Plan and Budget. The body will also consider implementation plans for supportive housing and emergency shelter funding in St. Catharines.

• Public Health 2026 Annual Service Plan and Budget Submission
• Supportive Housing Strategy Implementation Plan
• St. Catharines Emergency Shelter Funding
• Motion regarding Seasonal Shelter
• Efficiencies in Emergency Medical Services (EMS) report

The Committee approved the Public Health 2026 Annual Service Plan and Budget Submission. It also authorized a $2,000,000 transfer for the St. Catharines Emergency Shelter project and directed staff to report on seasonal winter shelter options.

• Approved Public Health 2026 Annual Service Plan and Budget Submission of $42,133,884
• Endorsed financial modeling scenario for Supportive Housing Strategy Implementation Plan
• Approved $2,000,000 transfer for St. Catharines Emergency Shelter project
• Directed staff to report on establishing a seasonal winter shelter program for 2026–2027
• Received information regarding Efficiencies in Emergency Medical Services
• Received information regarding Health Systems Planning Report
• Directed staff to reallocate up to $120,000 to support the Welcoming Streets Initiative

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will vote on replacing the Westchester Avenue culvert (Structure 091305). Members will also receive a progress update on the South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Solution and review minutes from the Transportation Strategy Steering Committee.

• PW 13-2026: Westchester Avenue Culvert (Str. 091305) Replacement – decision item
• PWC-C 6-2026: South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Solution progress update (presentation included)
• TSSC 1-2026: Transportation Strategy Steering Committee minutes from March 25, 2026

The Public Works Committee approved a capital budget adjustment of $1,500,000, funded from the Capital Variance Project – Levy, for the Westchester Avenue culvert replacement in St. Catharines. The committee also awarded the detailed design contract to Ellis Engineering Inc. at a quoted price of $1,224,310, which includes 13% HST. Additionally, the committee received informational updates on the South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Solution and the Transportation Strategy Steering Committee minutes.

• Approved $1,500,000 capital budget adjustment (funded from Capital Variance Project – Levy)
• Awarded detailed design contract to Ellis Engineering Inc. for $1,224,310 (including 13% HST)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will receive presentations on the 2025 Government Relations Year End Review and the 2026-2030 Government Relations Strategy, as well as an update on the Asset Management Program. An overview of the Regional Road Network was removed from the agenda.

• Government Relations 2025 Year End Review and 2026-2030 Strategy
• 2026 Asset Management Program Update
• Overview of the Current State of the Regional Roads (removed)
• CAO 4-2026 Government Relations Year End Review
• CAO 5-2026 Government Relations Strategy 2026-2030

The Committee of the Whole received four reports for information only, including the Government Relations 2025 Year End Review and 2026-2030 Strategy, and the 2026 Asset Management Program Update. No substantive decisions were made.

• Received Government Relations 2025 Year End Review and 2026-2030 Strategy for information
• Received Government Relations Strategy 2026-2030 for information
• Received Asset Management Program Update for information
• Tabled Overview of the Current State of Regional Roads to a future meeting

Council

The Regional Council will consider several by‑laws, including tax‑rate setting for 2026 and a borrowing of $2,965,140 for capital works in the City of St. Catharines. Items also include a declaration of a vacant Regional Chair seat and approval of interim funding for the HART Hub. Committee reports and a budget amendment for the Niagara Falls Wastewater Treatment Plant will be reviewed.

• Bill 2026-17: authorize $2,965,140 borrowing on 20‑year debentures for St. Catharines capital works
• Bill 2026-15: set tax ratios and rate reductions for prescribed property subclasses for 2026
• Bill 2026-16: set and levy the rate of taxation for regional general and special purposes for 2026
• Bill 2026-18: expropriate lands required for Regional Road 49 (McLeod Road) in Niagara Falls
• Declaration of Vacant Regional Chair seat (Bill CL‑C 18‑2026)

The council declared the Regional Chair seat held by Bob Gale vacant and sent a notice to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. It approved interim funding of up to $1,800,000 per fiscal year for the HART Hub through March 31 2028. The council initiated a governance review, directed the Regional Chair to cease further work on a review, and tasked the CAO with next‑step meetings and reporting. A report on policing cost allocation was referred back to staff for further work.

• Declared Regional Chair seat vacant (Bob Gale) – Carried
• Approved interim HART Hub funding up to $1,800,000 per fiscal year through March 31 2028 – Carried
• Initiated Niagara governance review and directed Regional Chair to refrain from further action – Carried
• Directed CAO to meet with municipal CAOs, define scope, and report back by next council meeting – Carried
• Referred Niagara Region Policing Cost Allocation report back to staff for completion – Carried

Transportation Strategy Steering Committee

The Transportation Strategy Steering Committee will review an additional committee meeting scheduled for August. It will discuss the Niagara Region Transportation Plan 2051 Update through a presentation. The committee will also review its Terms of Reference and receive correspondence on the Transportation Master Plan 2051 Update. Minutes from the November 26, 2025 meeting will be examined.

• Presentation of Niagara Region Transportation Plan 2051 Update (Item 5.1)
• Review of Committee Terms of Reference (Item 5.2)
• Correspondence on Transportation Master Plan 2051 Update (Item 5.3)
• Additional Committee Meeting in August (Item 4.1)
• Review of Transportation Strategy Steering Committee meeting minutes from November 26, 2025 (Item 5.4)

The Transportation Strategy Steering Committee voted to hold an extra meeting on August 26, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. It also formally received several items for information, including the Niagara Region Transportation Plan 2051 Update and related documents. The next regular meeting is scheduled for May 27, 2026. No other business was taken.

• Approved additional Transportation Strategy Steering Committee meeting on August 26, 2026 (carried)
• Received Niagara Region Transportation Plan 2051 Update memorandum for information (carried)
• Received upcoming review of Committee’s Terms of Reference for information (carried)
• Received correspondence – Transportation Master Plan 2051 Update for information (carried)
• Received Transportation Strategy Steering Committee meeting minutes – November 26, 2025 for information (carried)

Niagara Region Licensing Appeals Committee

The Licensing Appeals Committee will meet to hear an appeal concerning a notice of revocation for a taxicab broker license. The hearing will be conducted according to Niagara Region By-law 2021-57 and the Statutory Powers Procedure Act.

• Appeal by Sardar Sayed o/a Brock Q Taxi and Brock U-Taxi regarding Notice of Revocation NR000045 for a Taxicab Broker Licence

Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee

The Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee will receive presentations on homelessness and housing engagement and the 2026 priorities for the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan (2023-2027). The body will also review information regarding 2026 flag ceremonies.

• Niagara Region Homelessness and Housing Action Plan Engagement presentation
• Niagara Region Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan (2023-2027) 2026 Priorities presentation
• 2026 Flag Ceremonies information item

The committee moved and seconded a motion to receive the 2026 Flag Ceremonies memorandum for information, which was carried. A motion was also moved and seconded to receive the October 14, 2025 meeting minutes for information, and it was carried. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Received 2026 Flag Ceremonies memorandum for information (carried)
• Received October 14, 2025 meeting minutes for information (carried)

Audit Committee

The Niagara Region Audit Committee meeting on March 23, 2026 includes a consent item to receive a status update on internal audit engagements (AC-C 1-2026). No items are listed for consideration, so no decisions or votes are expected. The meeting also covers routine items such as call to order, land acknowledgement, disclosures, and scheduling the next meeting.

• AC-C 1-2026 Status Update Q1 2026 – internal audit engagement update (information only)

The committee accepted a memorandum providing a status update on internal audit engagements for information. The motion was moved by Councillor Olson, seconded by Councillor Rigby, and was carried. The committee was informed that a semi‑annual whistleblower‑type complaints summary will be presented at the May 25, 2026 meeting.

• Status update on internal audit engagements received for information (carried)

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The committee will receive presentations and information updates regarding Niagara Transit and regional economic development. There are no items listed for decision or consideration at this meeting.

• Niagara Transit presentation by General Manager Carla Stout and Chief of Staff Jordan Hambleton
• Investment Attraction Update (ED 3-2026)
• Q3 Q4 Economic Development Update (ED 2-2026)
• Niagara Transit Update (PDS-C 1-2026)

The Planning & Economic Development Committee received three reports for information and carried them. No items of consideration were presented, and no motions were adopted or denied.

• Received Investment Attraction Update (ED 3-2026) report – carried
• Received Q3 Q4 Economic Development Update (ED 2-2026) report – carried
• Received Niagara Transit Update (PDS-C 1-2026) report – carried

Corporate Services Committee

The Corporate Services Committee will review the Q4 2025 financial update and year‑end results, discuss the 2026 property tax policy, ratios and rates, and consider renewing the Esri Enterprise Agreement contract. A referred motion proposes a hiring freeze on non‑essential positions, and the committee will receive recommendations from the Joint Board of Management. Several procurement and expense reports are presented for information.

• CSD 6-2026 – Q4 2025 financial update and year‑end results
• CSD 7-2026 – 2026 property tax policy, ratios and rates
• CSD 10-2026 – Esri Enterprise Agreement contract renewal
• CSC-C 5-2026 – Referred motion for a hiring freeze on non‑essential positions
• CSC-C 6-2026 – Recommendations from the Joint Board of Management

The Corporate Services Committee approved the 2026 property tax policy ratios and the renewal of the Esri Enterprise Agreement. It rejected the proposed hiring freeze on non‑essential positions. It also approved year‑end surplus transfers, court budget adjustments, and directed a study on separating the police portion of tax bills.

• Approved 2026 Property Tax Policy ratios and sub‑class reductions (Carried)
• Approved Esri Enterprise Agreement renewal for $2,158,300 (Carried)
• Defeated hiring freeze on non‑essential positions (Defeated)
• Approved 2025 year‑end surplus transfers to various reserves (Carried)
• Approved court budget adjustment (net $0) and case write‑offs (Carried)
• Directed finance department to investigate separating police portion on tax bills (Carried)
• Received for information reports CSD 5‑2026, CSD 9‑2026, CSD 11‑2026, CSD 12‑2026, CSC‑C 1‑2026, CAO 3‑2026 (Received)
• Approved preparation and circulation of 2026 tax policy by‑laws to area municipalities (Carried)

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will consider budget adjustments for wastewater treatment upgrades in Niagara Falls and the 2025 results of the Road Safety Strategic Plan. The body will also discuss a motion regarding long-term waste management planning and an agreement extension for regional courts.

• Niagara Falls Wastewater Treatment Plant Primary Treatment Upgrades budget adjustment and amendment
• Road Safety Strategic Plan 2025 results and 2026 workplan
• Extension of the Niagara Regional Courts Inter-Municipal Agreement (Amendment 3)
• Motion requesting the Province for long-term waste management planning
• Region Fleet Services vehicle and equipment accident information report

The Public Works Committee approved the Vision Zero road safety workplan and a $2,804,002 operating budget adjustment. It also approved a three‑year extension of the Niagara Regional Courts Inter‑Municipal Agreement to continue the red‑light camera program. The committee approved a $9,670,550 transfer and a $24,546,250 capital budget adjustment for Niagara Falls wastewater treatment upgrades, funded by a provincial grant. Finally, the committee adopted a resolution requesting the Ontario government develop a province‑wide long‑term waste‑management strategy.

• Approved Vision Zero Road Safety workplan (Carried)
• Approved $2,804,002 operating budget adjustment for road safety (Carried)
• Approved three‑year extension of the Courts Inter‑Municipal Agreement (Carried)
• Authorized execution of Amendment 3 to the agreement pending municipal approvals (Carried)
• Approved $9,670,550 transfer from Wastewater Capital Reserve for primary treatment upgrades (Carried)
• Approved $24,546,250 capital budget adjustment for wastewater upgrades, funded by provincial grant (Carried)
• Adopted resolution requesting Ontario develop a coordinated long‑term waste‑management strategy (Carried)

PHSSC

The Public Health & Social Services Committee will review several investment plans, including the Homelessness Prevention Plan for 2026‑27 and the funding plan for the Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative (OPHI) and Canada‑Ontario Community Housing Initiative (COCHI). It will also consider adding a permanent public health nurse full‑time equivalent to the Environmental Health Division. A consent item will provide information on the Welcoming Streets Initiative Pilot Program evaluation.

• COM 4‑2026 – Homelessness Prevention Plan – Investment Plan 2026‑27
• COM 6‑2026 – Investment Plan for OPHI and COCHI Funding
• PHD 2‑2026 – Addition of one permanent public health nurse full‑time equivalent
• COM 5‑2026 – Welcoming Streets Initiative Pilot Program Evaluation (consent item)
• Delegations presenting reports on the Welcoming Streets Initiative and Homelessness Prevention Plan

The Public Health & Social Services Committee received several reports and approved key recommendations. It directed staff to explore funding options for the Welcoming Streets Initiative and approved the Ministry‑mandated Homelessness Prevention Plan investment for 2026‑27, as well as the Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative and Canada‑Ontario Community Housing Initiative plans. The committee also approved adding one permanent public health nurse and accepted a confidential EMS dispatch report.

• Welcoming Streets Initiative report received; staff directed to report funding options (Yes 17, No 0)
• Homelessness Prevention Plan – Investment Plan 2026‑27 approved (Carried)
• Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative and Canada‑Ontario Community Housing Initiative investment plan approved (Carried)
• Addition of one permanent public health nurse (FTE) approved, funded through Ministry of Health (Carried)
• Confidential Niagara EMS Communication Dispatch report received and recommendation approved (Carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will convene on February 26, 2026 at the Niagara Region Headquarters to handle standard agenda items. Items include a call to order, land acknowledgement, disclosures of pecuniary interest, and a consent item consisting of governance letters from Regional Chair Gale on municipal governance reform. The meeting also provides time for other business and sets the next meeting for April 9, 2026.

• Consent item COTW-C 1-2026 – Review of Governance Letters from Regional Chair Gale regarding municipal governance reform
• Call to Order – formal start of the meeting

The council approved an amendment to launch a governance review of Niagara, directing the Regional Chair to limit further use of resources on the review and to forward the resolution to the Premier and the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. The motion to sustain the Chair’s ruling on taking a position was defeated. A correspondence item from the Chair regarding municipal governance reform was formally received.

• Motion to sustain Chair's ruling on taking a position – defeated (Yes 10, No 20)
• Correspondence Item COTW-C 1-2026 received
• Clause 1 of amendment – governance review initiated – carried (Yes 22, No 7)
• Clause 2 of amendment – chair directed to refrain from further action – carried (Yes 17, No 12)
• Clause 3 of amendment – resolution forwarded to Premier and Minister – carried (Yes 25, No 4)
• Amended resolution as a whole – carried (Yes 21, No 9)

Council

The Regional Municipality of Niagara is meeting to consider several by-laws, including tax levies and housing facilities. Council will also review a governance report for the Niagara Transit Commission and an Integrity Commissioner report regarding Councillor Bateman.

• Bill 2026-11: 2026 Interim Tax, Waste Management Special Upper Tier Levy, and Transit Special Upper Tier Levy
• Bill 2026-12: Municipal Housing Facilities By-law
• Bill 2026-13: Niagara Transit Commission Governance Amending By-law
• Integrity Commissioner Report on Code of Conduct Complaints regarding Councillor Bateman
• CAO 2-2026: Niagara Transit Commission Board Governance Review

The council approved the proposed governance model for the Niagara Transit Commission and dissolved its Public Advisory Committee, creating an Insights Panel instead. It directed staff to amend By‑law 2022‑38 to reflect the new model. The council reprimanded Councillor Bateman for a Code of Conduct breach, but a motion to suspend his remuneration was defeated (13‑15). Additional actions included appointing Councillor Seaborn to the Corporate Services Committee and adopting several by‑laws on taxes, waste‑management, transit levies, and municipal housing facilities.

• Approved Niagara Transit Commission governance model (effective 2026 term) – motion carried
• Dissolved Niagara Transit Committee Public Advisory Committee, to be replaced by an Insights Panel – motion carried
• Directed amendment of By‑law 2022‑38 to reflect new governance – motion carried
• Reprimanded Councillor Bateman for Code of Conduct contravention – motion carried
• Suspension of Councillor Bateman’s remuneration defeated (Yes 13, No 15) – motion defeated
• Appointed Councillor Seaborn to the Corporate Services Committee – motion carried
• Adopted by‑laws authorizing 2026 interim tax, waste‑management levy, and transit levy – motion carried
• Adopted Municipal Housing Facilities By‑law and repealed By‑law 2017‑89 – motion carried

Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Accessibility Advisory Committee will review the 2025 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan status and compliance report. The meeting will also include a presentation on the 2026 Niagara Accessibility Advisory Committees event. The session is held electronically with no in-person attendance.

• Review of 2025 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan status and compliance
• Presentation on 2026 Niagara Accessibility Advisory Committees event
• Discussion of accessible taxi survey results
• Approval of October 21, 2025 meeting minutes
• Meeting scheduled for May 26, 2026

The Accessibility Advisory Committee did not achieve a quorum within 30 minutes of the scheduled start time. As required by Section 22.11 of Procedural By-law 120-2010, the meeting was adjourned until the next scheduled date. No items were approved, denied, or tabled.

Agricultural Policy and Action Committee

The Agricultural Policy and Action Committee will meet electronically to review an Agricultural Impact Assessment Guidance Document and approve minutes from a previous meeting.

• Review of Agricultural Impact Assessment Guidance Document
• Approval of September 12, 2025 meeting minutes

The Agricultural Policy & Action Committee received the Agricultural Impact Assessment Guidance Document and the September 2025 meeting minutes. It extended the Soil Health Working Group term by one year. It also directed the Chair to draft and circulate a letter supporting Bill 21, Protect Our Food Act, to local municipalities and provincial members. All motions were carried.

• Received Agricultural Impact Assessment Guidance Document (Carried)
• Received September 12, 2025 committee minutes (Carried)
• Extended Soil Health Working Group term by one year (Carried)
• Directed Chair to draft support letter for Bill 21, Protect Our Food Act (Carried)

Joint Board of Management

The Joint Board of Management for Niagara Courts will meet electronically to elect a chair and vice-chair, and to consider a 2026 budget adjustment for Court Services and write-off recommendations.

• Election of Board Chair and Vice-Chair
• 2026 Budget Adjustment for Court Services
• Court Services Write-Off Recommendations for 2025
• Approval of November 27, 2025 meeting minutes
• Meeting scheduled for April 23, 2026

Melissa Montague was appointed Chair and Nidhi Punyarthi was appointed Vice‑Chair of the Joint Board of Management – Niagara Courts for 2026. The board approved a $0 net operating budget adjustment for Court Services and approved the write‑off of delinquent cases from the ICON system. All motions were carried.

• Melissa Montague nominated and appointed as Board Chair (Carried)
• Nidhi Punyarthi nominated and appointed as Board Vice‑Chair (Carried)
• Approved 2026 Court Services operating budget adjustment of $0 net (Carried)
• Approved write‑off of delinquent court cases per MAG directive (Carried)
• Minutes from Nov 27, 2025 received for information (Carried)

Council Special

The Regional Municipality of Niagara Council will consider recommendations from the Budget Review Committee of the Whole and the final operating budget and tax levy recommendations. It will vote on a by‑law to adopt the 2026 operating budget and general tax levy. A second by‑law will confirm and ratify the actions taken at this special meeting.

• CL‑C 11‑2026: Recommendations from the Budget Review Committee of the Whole (Feb 12 2026)
• CL‑C 12‑2026: Final Operating Budget and Tax Levy Recommendations
• Bill 2026‑09: By‑law to adopt the 2026 Operating Budget and General Tax Levy
• Bill 2026‑10: By‑law to confirm, ratify, and adopt the actions of this special meeting

The council reconsidered the 2025‑approved budgets and adopted amendments to the Regional Departments and Incentives budgets. It approved specific funding items from the Taxpayer Relief Reserve, the Agencies, Board and Commissions budget, and set the 2026 general tax levy. Two by‑laws were passed to adopt the operating budget and to ratify the meeting's actions.

• Reconsidered the budgets for Regional Departments and Incentives approved Dec 11, 2025 – Carried
• Approved amendment to Regional Departments budget to $294,792,371 (increase of $11,968,447) – Carried
• Approved Incentives budget to $34,876,655 (increase of $5,839,317) – Carried
• Approved $8,946,192 of items funded from the Taxpayer Relief Reserve, including a $5.418M Industrial Development Charge Grant for Asahi Kasei Project Eagle – Carried
• Approved Agencies, Board, and Commissions budget of $253,043,628 – Carried
• Approved 2026 general tax levy of $582,712,654 – Carried
• Adopted Bill 2026-09: by‑law to adopt the 2026 operating budget and general tax levy – Carried
• Adopted Bill 2026-10: by‑law to ratify actions of the special meeting – Carried

Budget Review Committee of the Whole

The Budget Review Committee of the Whole will consider a motion on the Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) budget and review the 2026 General Tax Levy Budget Update. Delegations from Innovate Niagara, the Niagara Industrial Association, and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities will present related information. The meeting also includes consent items reviewing previously approved 2026 budget decisions and a discussion on placing a separate NRPS line item on municipal property tax bills.

• Motion – Niagara Regional Police Service Budget (Item 5.1)
• 2026 General Tax Levy Budget Update (Item 5.2)
• Delegations: Innovate Niagara, Niagara Industrial Association, Federation of Canadian Municipalities (Item 4.1)
• Separate NRPS line item on municipal property tax bills (Item 7.1)
• Consent item reviewing previously approved 2026 budget decisions (Item 6.1)

The committee approved a $850,000 reduction to the Niagara Regional Police Service operating budget. It also adopted several cuts to regional programs, including halving the Industrial Development Charge Incentive Grant and removing various departmental items. Some proposals, such as eliminating the Innovate Niagara Program, were defeated. The committee recommended that Regional Council revisit prior budget decisions.

• Reduce Niagara Regional Police Service 2026 operating budget by $850,000 – carried
• Lower Industrial Development Charge Incentive Grant to 50% and cut incentives budget by $1,000,000 – carried
• Remove Innovate Niagara Program, saving $93,996 – defeated
• Remove Economic Development Local Area Municipality Fund, saving $92,000 – carried
• Remove Support for Low Income Funerals, saving $200,000 – defeated (Yes 4, No 23)
• Remove funding for future EMS facility replacement, saving $444,600 – carried (Yes 25, No 2)
• Remove Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Intern position, saving $48,810 – carried
• Reduce Regional Departments net budget by $1,000,000 due to investment income – carried

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The Planning & Economic Development Committee will present a Strategic Marketing Update and the 2025 Employment Inventory results. In a closed session, the committee will discuss confidential matters regarding proposed land dispositions at 12A-18B Hainer Street, 401A Lakeshore Road and 14 Broadway Avenue, and a GO Station Development Strategy update. These items are for discussion and potential decision under the Municipal Act.

• Strategic Marketing Update presentation (ED 1-2026)
• 2025 Niagara Region Employment Inventory Results presentation (PDS 6-2026)
• Confidential discussion of proposed disposition of land at 12A-18B Hainer Street, City of St. Catharines
• Confidential discussion of RFP outcome for 401A Lakeshore Road and 14 Broadway Avenue, City of St. Catharines
• Confidential discussion of GO Station Development Strategy Update 2026

The Planning and Economic Development Committee received and approved three confidential reports: a proposed land disposition on Hainer Street in St. Catharines, the RFP outcome for 401A Lakeshore Road and 14 Broadway Avenue in St. Catharines, and the GO Station Development Strategy Update 2026. All three recommendations were approved and recorded as carried. The meeting adjourned at 2:20 p.m.

• Approved confidential report PDS 4-2026 on land disposition at 12A-18B Hainer Street (approved)
• Approved confidential report PDS 5-2026 on RFP outcome for 401A Lakeshore Road and 14 Broadway Avenue (approved)
• Approved confidential report PDS 7-2026 on GO Station Development Strategy Update 2026 (approved)

Corporate Services Committee

The Corporate Services Committee is meeting to decide on the dates and amounts for 2026 interim levies. The body will also consider an agreement with the Police Service Board regarding the operation of the 9-1-1 call answer service.

• Approval of 2026 Interim Levy Dates and Amounts (CSD 2-2026)
• Primary PPSAP Agreement with RMON Police Service Board for 9-1-1 Call Answer Service (CSD 3-2026)
• Delegations regarding Transportation Network Company Licensing
• Referred motion on hiring freeze for non-essential positions (CSC-C 2-2026)
• Labour relations strategy for collective bargaining with ONA Local 9 Public Health

The committee approved the 2026 interim regional levy dates and amounts and directed that a by‑law be prepared for council. It authorized the Regional Chair and Clerk to execute the Primary Public Safety Answering Point Agreement for 9‑1‑1 services. The committee also received a hiring freeze on non‑essential positions for information and approved a labour‑relations strategy for upcoming collective bargaining with ONA Local 9 Public Health.

• Approved 2026 interim levy dates and amounts (Carried)
• Authorized execution of PPSAP Agreement for 9‑1‑1 services (Carried)
• Received hiring freeze on non‑essential positions for information (Carried)
• Approved labour‑relations strategy for ONA Local 9 Public Health (Carried)

PHSSC

The Public Health & Social Services Committee will consider a referred motion to adopt a winter weather emergency procedure for unhoused residents. The meeting also includes presentations on the Ontario measles outbreak response, the Emergency Management 2025 Annual Report, and a council motion outlining the region's winter plan. Delegations from residents address a state of emergency for mental health, homelessness, and addictions.

• Referred Motion – Winter Weather Emergency Procedure for Unhoused Residents (COM-C 7-2026)
• Presentation – Response to the Ontario Measles Outbreak
• Presentation – Emergency Management 2025 Annual Report
• Council Motion – Winter Plan (presentation and supporting documents)
• Resident delegations on State of Emergency for Mental Health, Homelessness, and Addictions (Alicia Googoo, Cheryl Rowe, Tammy Riley, Tyler Robillard)

The committee considered a motion directing staff to develop a Winter Weather Emergency Procedure for unhoused residents. The motion (COM-C 7-2026) was defeated. The committee also carried several consent items for information, including reports on the measles outbreak, emergency management, vaccination clinics, and other updates.

• Defeated motion COM-C 7-2026 – Winter Weather Emergency Procedure for unhoused residents
• Carried consent item PHD-C 2-2026 – Response to Ontario Measles Outbreak
• Carried consent item PHD-C 3-2026 – Emergency Management 2025 Annual Report
• Carried consent item PHD-C 4-2026 – March Break Vaccination Clinics
• Carried consent item PHD-C 5-2026 – Declaration of Commitment with Niagara School Boards
• Carried consent item PHD-C 6-2026 – Amendments to the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act
• Carried consent item COM 2-2026 – Seniors Services Quality Improvement Report (Oct‑Dec 2025)
• Carried consent item COM-C 3-2026 – Emergency Social Services Response – Welland Incident

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee is meeting to review and approve a long-term waste strategy and extend a curbside collection contract. The body will also receive information on energy from waste and discuss litigation regarding a sanitary sewer project in closed session.

• Approval of the Final Niagara Region Waste Strategy (2026-2051)
• Extension of curbside collection for garbage, recyclables, and organics (Contract 2019-RFP-156) to March 3, 2030
• Information report on Energy From Waste overview and considerations
• Closed session discussion on Quaker Road Sanitary Trunk Sewer budget increase litigation

The committee approved the final Niagara Region Waste Strategy (2026‑2051) and ordered it be circulated to local municipalities. It also approved one‑year extensions of the 2019 curbside collection contracts with Miller Waste Systems Inc. and GFL Environmental Inc. to March 3, 2030, and delegated authority to finalize the extensions. Confidential litigation information regarding the Quaker Road sanitary trunk sewer was received and approved.

• Approved Niagara Region Waste Strategy (2026‑2051) – Carried
• Extended Miller Waste Systems Inc. curbside collection contract to March 3, 2030 – Carried
• Extended GFL Environmental Inc. curbside collection contract to March 3, 2030 – Carried
• Delegated Director of Waste Management authority to finalize contract extensions – Carried
• Authorized Regional Chair and Clerk to execute contract amendments – Carried
• Directed staff to advise Council weekly after extensions are executed – Carried
• Received Energy‑from‑Waste overview for information – Carried
• Approved confidential litigation matter on Quaker Road sanitary trunk sewer – Carried

Niagara Region Licensing Appeals Committee

The Niagara Region Licensing Appeals Committee will hear appeals from four transportation network company drivers whose licence renewals were refused. The hearings are conducted under Niagara Region By-law 2021-57 and the Statutory Powers Procedure Act. No decisions are recorded in this agenda; the committee will consider each case at the meeting.

• Khalid Dawod – refusal of licence renewal (By-law 2021-57)
• Hakki Imren – refusal of licence renewal (By-law 2021-57)
• Muhammad Saad Zafar – refusal of licence renewal (By-law 2021-57)
• Ishak Celik – refusal of licence renewal (By-law 2021-57)
• Meeting rescheduled from Jan 26 2026 due to weather

Council

The Regional Council will discuss the 2026 Waste Management Budget and a motion regarding winter weather emergency procedures for unhoused residents. The meeting also includes a presentation on the regional impact of the University of Niagara Falls Canada and a vote to fill a vacant council seat for the City of Niagara Falls.

• Bill 2026-07: 2026 Waste Management Budget
• Bill 2026-04: Expropriation of lands for reconstruction of Regional Road 49 (McLeod Road) in Niagara Falls
• Motion for Winter Weather Emergency Procedure for Unhoused Residents
• Motion for Hiring Freeze on Non-Essential Positions
• Filling of Vacant Regional Council Seat for the City of Niagara Falls

Council approved the appointment of Barbara Greenwood as the Regional Councillor for the City of Niagara Falls, filling the vacancy until November 14, 2026. She was also appointed to the Planning and Economic Development Committee. The motion on a Winter Weather Emergency Procedure for unhoused residents was referred to the Public Health and Social Services Committee (22‑5 vote). The Terms of Reference for the Regional Development Charges Policy Task Force were amended to allow up to ten council members, and ten councillors were appointed to the task force.

• Appointed Barbara Greenwood as Regional Councillor for Niagara Falls (carried)
• Appointed Councillor Greenwood to the Planning and Economic Development Committee (carried)
• Referred Winter Weather Emergency Procedure for Unhoused Residents motion to Public Health and Social Services Committee (22‑5, carried)
• Amended RDCPTF Terms of Reference to permit up to ten council members (carried)
• Appointed Foster, Grant, Greenwood, Insinna, Junkin, Olson, Rigby, Seaborn, Steele, Whalen to RDCPTF (carried)
• Received correspondence on Niagara Region Cold Weather Response Plan (carried)
• Adopted minutes from previous council and committee meetings (carried)

Women's Advisory Committee

The Niagara Region Women's Advisory Committee will hear two presentations on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan (2023‑2027): a mid‑term review of results and the priorities for 2026. The committee will also receive an informational item of the November 11, 2025 meeting minutes and updates on the Equal Voice Niagara workshop. No formal decisions are listed for this meeting.

• Presentation: DEI Action Plan (2023‑2027) Mid‑Term Review Results
• Presentation: DEI Action Plan (2023‑2027) 2026 Priorities
• Item for information: WAC 6‑2025 minutes (Nov 11, 2025)
• Other business: Equal Voice Niagara workshop updates
• Next meeting scheduled for April 21, 2026

The Women's Advisory Committee received the minutes from its November 11, 2025 meeting and carried them for information. No other motions were adopted. The meeting was adjourned at 5:16 p.m.

• Received and carried minutes WAC 6-2025 (for information) – motion moved by Councillor Ganann, seconded by E. Zimmermann

PHSSC

The Public Health & Social Services Committee will hear a delegation regarding respite care and review several information items. There are no items listed for formal decision.

• Delegation from Tom Hodges, Niagara Respite Care Study Group Team
• Presentation on Public Health Nurse-Delivered Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Perinatal Depression
• Information item on Geneva Street Supportive Housing Operations
• PHSSC Councillor Information Requests

The Public Health & Social Services Committee approved a motion allowing Karen Stearne of the Niagara Respite Care Study Group to appear as a delegate at the Supporting Those Who Support Others conference. It also adopted three consent motions to receive for information a memorandum on nurse‑delivered CBT for perinatal depression, a report on Geneva Street supportive housing operations, and a memorandum on councillor information requests. All motions were carried without recorded vote counts. No other items were considered.

• Permitted Karen Stearne to appear as a delegate for the “Supporting Those Who Support Others” conference (Carried)
• Received PHD-C 1-2026 memorandum on public health nurse‑delivered CBT for perinatal depression (Carried)
• Received COM 1-2026 report on Geneva Street supportive housing operations (Carried)
• Received COM-C 1-2026 memorandum on PHSSC councillor information requests (Carried)

Public Works Committee

The committee is considering budget increases and contract awards for sewage pumping station upgrades. Members will also discuss the transfer of road jurisdiction for Kimbo Road and receive updates on the Regional Transportation Master Plan.

• Transfer of road jurisdiction for Kimbo Road in the Township of West Lincoln
• Gross budget increase for Catherine Street Sewage Pumping Station Upgrades
• Contract award 2025-T-183 for Victoria Avenue Sewage Pumping Station and Forcemain Upgrade
• Contract award 2025-T-27 for Spring Gardens Sanitary Pumping Station and Forcemain Upgrade in St Catharines
• Agreement with Product Care Association for the Hazardous and Special Products Program

The Public Works Committee approved a $2,150,000 gross capital budget increase for the Catherine Street Sewage Pumping Station upgrades and authorized related contract amendments. It also removed Kimbo Road from the regional road system and awarded two sewage‑related contracts to the lowest compliant bidders. All items were carried without recorded vote tallies.

• Removed Kimbo Road in West Lincoln from the Regional Road System (Carried)
• Directed staff to conduct a legal survey to confirm the highway land description for Kimbo Road (Carried)
• Awarded Contract 2025‑T‑183 for Victoria Avenue Sewage Pumping Station and Forcemain Upgrade to Baiocco Construction Corp. for $12,018,488 (including 13% HST) (Carried)
• Awarded Contract 2025‑T‑27 for Spring Gardens Sanitary Pumping Station and Forcemain Upgrade to Verly Construction Group Inc. for $8,883,746 (including 13% HST) (Carried)
• Increased the gross capital budget for Catherine Street Sewage Pumping Station upgrades by $2,150,000 (Carried)
• Approved an additional $1,864,500 (including 13% HST) to the archaeological assessment agreement with WSP Canada Inc., raising the contract total to $4,953,202 (including 13% HST) (Carried)
• Authorized the Commissioner of Public Works to execute the amendment to the WSP Canada Inc. agreement (Carried)
• Received for information the Niagara Region Transportation Master Plan presentation (Carried)

Budget Review Committee of the Whole

The Budget Review Committee will consider the 2026 General Tax Levy Budget update and the accompanying recommendations, with a presentation provided before discussion. A consent item will provide information from the Niagara Regional Police Service Board regarding its 2026 proposed operating budget. The meeting will be followed immediately by a special Regional Council session.

• 2026 General Tax Levy Budget Update and Recommendations (BRC‑C 1‑2026)
• Presentation of 2026 General Tax Levy Budget Approval (BRC‑1‑2026 Presentation PDF)
• Correspondence from Niagara Regional Police Service Board – 2026 Proposed Operating Budget (BRC‑C 2‑2026)
• Consent item for information – BRC‑C 2‑2026
• Special Regional Council meeting scheduled immediately after this session

The Budget Review Committee considered the 2026 General Tax Levy Budget Update. A motion was moved and seconded to refer the final budget discussions to Chief Administrative Officer Ron Tripp and Regional Chair Gale for further review. The motion passed with 14 votes in favour and 13 against. The next meeting is scheduled for February 5, 2026.

• Refer 2026 budget discussions to CAO Ron Tripp and Regional Chair Gale (14-13)

Council Special

The Regional Municipality of Niagara Council will hold a public meeting to hear a complaint regarding development charges for a property at 228 Dunkirk Road in St. Catharines. The meeting will also include a declaration of a vacant seat in Niagara Falls and the adoption of a confirming by-law for the January 8, 2026 meeting.

• Public hearing for Development Charges Complaint at 228 Dunkirk Road, St. Catharines
• Declaration of vacant Regional Council seat for Niagara Falls
• Adoption of Bill 2026-01 confirming by-law for January 8, 2026 meeting
• Closed session to review confidential legal advice regarding the development charges complaint

The Regional Council dismissed the development charges complaint for 228 Dunkirk Road in St. Catharines. It declared the regional council seat for the City of Niagara Falls vacant and asked the city to recommend a replacement by February 6, 2026. The council also adopted a by‑law confirming the actions of its first special meeting and moved into closed session for legal advice.

• Adopted agenda CL 1-2026 (Carried)
• Dismissed development charges complaint for 228 Dunkirk Road (Carried)
• Moved into closed session for solicitor‑client privileged legal advice (Carried)
• Declared Niagara Falls regional council seat vacant (Carried)
• Requested City of Niagara Falls to advise preferred appointee by Feb 6, 2026 (Carried)
• Adopted Bill 2026-01 by‑law confirming meeting actions (Carried)

Council Special

Regional Council is meeting to consider recommendations from the Budget Review Committee of the Whole. The body will decide on the adoption of the 2026 Operating Budget and the associated General Tax Levy.

• Bill 2026-02: By-law to adopt the 2026 Operating Budget and General Tax Levy
• Bill 2026-03: Confirming by-law to ratify actions of the January 8, 2026 special meeting