Fort Erie Reflects on Four Years of Progress & Community Investment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FORT ERIE (July 22, 2026) – The Town of Fort Erie has released its Municipal Council Term in Review Report, highlighting the accomplishments of Council and staff during the 2022 to 2026 term. Guided by the Town's 2023 to 2026 Corporate Strategic Plan, the report outlines significant investments, infrastructure improvements, community initiatives and advocacy efforts that have strengthened Fort Erie and positioned the community for future success.

“This Council has remained focused on delivering meaningful results for our community. Together, we have invested in critical infrastructure, strengthened health care advocacy, supported economic growth, enhanced parks and public spaces, and laid the groundwork for Fort Erie's future through our new Official Plan. Every accomplishment reflects a commitment to improving the quality of life for residents while ensuring Fort Erie remains a great place to live, work, invest and raise a family.”

Mayor Wayne Redekop

“The accomplishments highlighted in this report are the result of strong leadership from Council and the dedication of Town staff. Despite significant legislative changes, economic pressures and increasing service demands, the organization continued to modernize services, secure external funding, improve operational efficiency and deliver projects that will benefit the community for decades. This report demonstrates what can be achieved through long-term planning, collaboration and fiscal responsibility.”

Chris McQueen, Chief Administrative Officer

During the term, Council implemented its six strategic priorities while advancing major operational improvements across the organization. The report highlights achievements in infrastructure renewal, financial sustainability, housing, economic development, environmental stewardship, health care advocacy, customer service and community well-being.

Key accomplishments

• More than 56 meetings with provincial ministers and stakeholders to advocate for Fort Erie's priorities.
• More than $9.36 million secured in grant funding, including over $6.7 million toward major water infrastructure improvements.
• Approval of Fort Erie's new Official Plan, making Fort Erie the first local municipality in Niagara Region to receive provincial approval.
• Continued investment in infrastructure through watermain replacements, wastewater rehabilitation, asset management planning and new digital asset management systems.
• Strong financial performance, with Fort Erie maintaining one of the lowest residential municipal tax levies in Niagara while increasing long-term capital reserve contributions by 36 per cent.
• Continued community growth through hundreds of approved and proposed new housing units and significant provincial investments in new school infrastructure.
• More than 200 net new businesses since 2020, alongside major private-sector investments that continue to strengthen Fort Erie's economy.
• New parks, playgrounds, recreation facilities, trail improvements, accessibility initiatives and community gathering spaces that enhance quality of life.
• Continued advocacy to protect and expand local health care services, including support for Gilmore Lodge, Hospice Niagara, physician recruitment and the future of the Douglas Memorial site.
• Modernization of customer service through expanded online services, digital records, new communication tools and increased public engagement.

The report also highlights significant growth in public engagement. Since 2023, the Town has shared 1,783 social media posts, issued 68 media releases, expanded its website and online engagement tools, and introduced a new text notification service better to connect residents with municipal information and emergency updates.

The Municipal Council Term in Review Report provides residents with a comprehensive overview of the Town's progress over the past four years. It demonstrates how Council's strategic priorities have been translated into measurable results for the community.

The full Municipal Council Term in Review Report, pages 62 to 87, is available for online viewing.

For media inquiries, please visit Media Requests & Interviews.