Most Councillors Agree Change Needed

Niagara's councillors voted to restrict Chair Gale from proceeding further over government change

Niagara's regional chair given his marching orders from council on amalgamation, or reducing council size.

They passed a motion yesterday that included Bob Gale be directed not to proceed with further change, unless it's a review of duplication and governance based on data and public consultation.

Councillor Laura Ip was not impressed he only sent letters to the mayors and province.  "It is incredible to me the disdain some politicians have for politicians, and every single time I've seen this disdain, it has, without fail, been about those disdainful politicians wanting more power for themselves."

Councillor Leanna Villella admitted change is long overdue, but noted how it's done.  "Niagara is not a single uniform municipality.  It is 12 very distinct communities, each with their own history, and heritage, different tax bases, infrastructure realities."

However, there was agreement something must be done, it's just how.

Councillor Peter Secord noting what some areas look like right now.  "I don't believe anybody's identities would be lost going forward, and I can see the 'no' from the Mayor of Niagara on the Lake, and you're entitled to your opinion too.   But where's Port Dalhousie?  You know, it's part of St. Catharines.  Where's Glenridge, you know where it is, those communities are still strong."

Councillor Gary Zalepa, who's also criticized Bob Gale, also thanked him for starting this.  "And it's maybe not the path that we thought.  I saw a sign that read democracy is a little messy... it is.  The premier wants to hear a Niagara solution, because affordability is a significant concern."

Councillor Frank Campion says amalgamation is a by-product of eliminating a level of government, while Councillor Jim Diodati revealed data that showed there has been consultation over the last 20 years. 

The news poll question on our website shows the majority believe this change is long overdue.