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West Lincoln residents voice governance concerns

West Lincoln allows delegations, Grimsby host informal chat, Lincoln invites online comment

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

With misinformation and misunderstanding commonplace, Niagara West municipalities have each taken different routes to harvest public opinion on the provincial government’s push for regional governance changes.

Twp. of West Lincoln hosted a public meeting Wednesday, March

25, giving residents a chance to present their views to council. About a dozen residents attended. A recording of the meeting is available at westlincoln.ca.

Grimsby hosted a drop-in style meeting where an overview of what town officials have done to date, but no presentations were allowed. The meeting was not recorded.

Lincoln did not host a meeting,

rather they opened an input portal on speakuplincoln.ca so residents can submit opinion.

While attendance at West Lincoln’s meeting was lower than township officials hoped, Mayor Cheryl Ganann said there could be a couple of reasons for that.

Ganann noted the 5 p.m. starting time could have presented challenges for residents to get to the

meeting and also noted confusion about the process in the wake of Reg. Chair Bob Gale’s abrupt resignation had some residents thinking the matter was resolved.

“When the appointed Chair resigned, the very first text I got the next day was something congratulating us for saving West Lincoln,” said Ganann, who will serve as the Region’s interim chair for the month of April.

Scouting supper

William Birdsall, left, serves pasta to Linda Gordon, at 1st North Grimsby Scouts Pasta Dinner on Sunday evening at Mountain Ridge Community Centre. About $1,300 was raised to support Scout summer camp adventures at Haliburton Scout Reserve - including: wilderness camping, canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, archery, sailing and helps develop teamwork, cooperation, leadership and increased confidence for Scouts 11-14 of age. “We appreciate the community support. Our goal is to provide meaningful opportunities for our youth. The money raised will help offset some of the cost of the camp, so more youth can take part in this amazing activity,” said Scout Leader Tyler Laird. Loree - Photo

“I wrote back and said it’s only a reprieve. People are under the impression that now that the Chair is no longer in that position, that we are kind of done with things. That isn’t true. So, I am really, really happy that you came out.”

She explained to those on hand that gathering public opinion was part of the commitment the group of eight mayors who worked together on a formal presentation offered to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs in answer to a letter sent by Gale.

Gale’s letter was purported to have the support of seven mayors. That proved not to be true.

Ganann explained there was a lot of misunderstanding and assumptions throughout the process.

“They – being those four cities (Niagara Falls, St. Catharines, Welland and Lincoln) especially –had assumed that there were seven municipalities that were in agreement with the four-city model. One of those municipalities that they

See GOVERNANCE, Page 3

GOVERNANCE

From Page 1 assumed was in agreement was West Lincoln, another was Grimsby,” said Ganan.

“So, when Grimsby was not involved and not interested, and we were not involved and not interested, that took that number down and it swayed to the other side. So, we ended up with eight of the municipalities in Niagara, eight of the 12, who were very much opposed to a forced amalgamation.”

“They felt that they were being fiscally responsible and doing the best they could for the residents that they were responsible to based on the amount of taxes that we are allowed to keep.”

After an overview of governance review history, Ganann opened the session up to comments.

Dorothy Henderson noted her concerns with a forced amalgamation, citing problems with Chatham-Kent where 21 of 22 municipalities opposed it but were still merged

“The Progressive Conservatives have long-championed amalgama-

tion whether people want it or not. That, for me, is the fear of this...that there won’t be an allowance for the voice of the people,” Henderson said.

For Cathy Wyburn, the push for governance change was about possible loss of what makes West Lincoln such a desirable place to live.

“I want to say, with appreciation, (thanks for) the opportunity to come and make my feelings known,” Wyburn said.

“For us there isn’t a lot of duplication. We are a very unique area. We already are a whole bunch of hamlets being covered and stretched out, as far as I’m concerned, for full representation. To say we’re similar to Grimsby or Beamsville, I’m like, no, we don’t have the infrastructure the same. We don’t have the support the same. We don’t have taxi service. We don’t have the amount of grocery stores. We don’t have the amount of industry. We are totally different. Our needs are different.”

Wyburn also noted her agreement that Region is where governance attention should be directed.

“Build things properly the first time

and put a little bit more investment into something for the future,” she said, adding she has seen the same piece of road ripped up three times for pipe installation.

Shawn Lampman spoke to the fiscal concerns which have arisen about regional level of government - pointing out the 4.4 per cent tax hit of the Niagara Regional Police budget was responsible for the vast majority of the overall tax increase this year.

“Their (proponents of governance change) main argument does not make sense,” Lampman said.

He also noted he opposes the weighted voting structure at Region proposed by Gale, and the reduction of local council sizes.

“I don’t think cutting two councillors from West Lincoln would save us as much as the Province would like,” said Lampman.

John Smith, a relatively new resident to West Lincoln moving from Hamilton five years ago, said his new community has everything he wants just the way it is.

“Hamilton lost what we thought Hamilton was. I lived there for 45

years. We thought Hamilton was where we wanted to raise our kids. We were lifers,” said Smith of preamalgamation Hamilton.

“Our neighbours were royally ticked off that we didn’t tell them we were going to move. Then I said, ‘We’re moving to Smithville’.”

“They said, ‘What the hell’s in Smithville? There’s nothing there.’ I said ‘I don’t think you’re right’.”

“We’ve been here five years now and Hamilton never offered me what you offered me. The optics of living here versus the optics of living in Hamilton are off the map.”

Smith cited several examples of small town attention and service which he said he does not want to lose.

“I don’t want to ruin the optics. Bigger is not better,” he said.

Ganann wrapped up by noting, as the process unfolds, residents may get another chance to speak.

“We have a handful of people. We were hoping for many, many more. Hopefully we’ll have another one and we’ll hear from different people again,” Ganann said.

Spring Maintenance in Lincoln

Hydrant Flushing

Hydrant Flushing is performed annually in the spring for the general maintenance of the water distribution system and covers the Beamsville, Vineland and Jordan serviced areas. You may experience temporary low-water pressure during flushing and/or cloudy or discoloured water conditions after flushing is completed. Running your taps with cold water for about 10 minutes will typically clear any cloudiness or discolouration.

Street Sweeping

Street Sweeping is performed twice a year, in Spring and Fall. The Town is divided into nine sections which will take approximately six weeks to complete, weather permitting. Rural areas will commence mid-April, weather permitting and will continue until completed.

If you have any questions, please contact the Town at 905-563-2799 ext. 234 or publicworks@lincoln.ca. TRACK MY SWEEPER

Introducing a new feature to track your street sweeper in real-time.

CANDIDATE 101 INFORMATION NIGHT LINCOLN VOTES26

TO RUN FOR MUNICIPAL OFFICE OR CURIOUS ABOUT

Join the Town of Lincoln for an in-person Candidate Information Session: Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing: Overview of legislation, eligibility and qualifications, election rules, financial filing, and third-party advertiser requirements

Town Clerk: Nomination process, local perspective on roles and responsibilities

Local Councillors: Offer insight and practical perspectives from their early experience on Council

This session is designed to help anyone interested in municipal government learn what it takes to be an elected official and how to get involved in your community.

Beamsville Scouts host pasta dinner

The third annual 1st Beamsville Scouts Pasta Dinner will be on the menu at the Lincoln Centre on Saturday, April 11. The all-you-caneat event runs from 5-7 p.m. with dinner including pasta, a drink and salad.

Tickets are $20 for 13 years and older; $10 for 6-12 year olds; five and under free.

For tickets, go to: tinyurl.com/1stBstore All funds from the evening will help support a planned Scouts trip for 30 members to attend a jamboree in Switzerland this summer.

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Owner of 270 Bench Kitchen Kyle Campbell stirs tomato sauce he prepared for 1st North Grimsby Scouts fundraising pasta dinner on Sunday at Mountain Ridge Community Centre. About 90 attended. Loree - Photo

Luxury Estate on the Bench with Lake & Escarpment Views. Set on the prestigious bench with your own vineyards of wine grapes. This estate offers breathtaking views of Lake Ontario, Niagara Escarpment and backing onto vineyards. Enjoy resort-style living featuring an indoor pool, hot tub, home gym, tennis courts and an additional 2-bedroom coach house for family or guests.

Get ’em while they’re hot!

Thanks to a great response! NewsNow has not skipped a beat to deliver for our community.

Our carriers go door-to-door in Grimsby, Beamsville, Vineland, Jordan & Smithville.

There are just a few routes vacant, so if you happened to miss your copy - or if you live in a rural area - we have planned a large list of helpful outlets to allow for quick and convenient pick ups.

Grimsby

Puddicombe

Beamsville

Sobeys

West Lincoln

West

Grimsby hosts drop-in format governance meeting

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

The Town of Grimsby hosted a drop-in style meeting last Wednesday, March 25, to give residents an opportunity to discuss recent governance matters with town officials.

both the format and the timing of discussion did not sit well with some residents.

presentation to update about 30 residents on what has been done regarding proposed changes to Niagara Region’s governance structure.

Gale were outlined as well as Town of Grims by’s response to those suggestions, namely weighted voting at the regional council table which would only include mayors after region al council positions were removed, and amal gamating into a four-city model.

free to approach various town officials to dis cuss the governance matter. There were no delegations and the meeting was not recorded.

that kind of meeting,” said resident Stephen

Owen.

“The whole idea should be to hear from resi-

Three-term Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton will not seek

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

In a move which may come as a surprise to some, Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton announced Tuesday would not seek re-election in this October’s municipal election.

Easton was first elected as Lincoln mayor in 2014. Earlier, she was been elected twice as a town councillor.

Below is the full text of her announcement:

Serving as Mayor of Lincoln has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.

Lincoln is more than a municipality on a map, it is a community built on hard work, strong values, and neighbours who look out for one another. It’s where families grow, businesses take root, and where community still means something real.

In a town like ours, leader-

ship is personal.

You see it at the grocery store, at community events, on sidewalks, and on the farms.

The decisions made at Town Hall affect people you know by name, and that responsibility has always guided me.

I am proud of what we have accomplished together, protecting Lincoln’s character, supporting our local economy, managing growth responsibly, and investing in the future.

Despite limited resources, we have remained thoughtful, practical, and focused on what matters most.

Over nearly 12 years as Mayor, and six years as a councillor, I have given this role my full commitment.

Serving as head of council is both a profound privilege and a significant responsibility. It demands energy, resilience, strong relationships, and a

clear sense of purpose and vision.

After careful reflection, I have decided that I will not be seeking re-election in the October 2026 Municipal Election.

This decision is grounded in where I am in my journey of public service and in the goals we have achieved together over the past 12 years and throughout my 18 years in elected public service.

I believe this is the right time to create space for renewed energy and leadership, particularly as we continue to navigate the need for government reform and economic stability across Niagara.

Together with Council, we have accomplished a great deal. I am proud to leave Lincoln in a stronger position economically, environmentally, and organizationally.

This includes meaningful

progress in infrastructure, cultural initiatives such as the new museum build and Indigenous engagement, health and community well-being, expanded transit and GO bus service, and continued investment in families and community spaces.

Until the end of my term in November 2026, I remain fully committed to serving this community, completing approved projects, responding to emerging needs, and ensuring the continued safety and wellbeing of our residents.

Lincoln’s future is bright because of its people. I am deeply grateful to those who have supported me, challenged me, and engaged in thoughtful and respectful dialogue. It has been an honour to serve, and I will always be proud to stand with Lincoln.

Mayor Sandra Easton

OBITUARIES

Culp, June

June 20, 1935-March 20, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Marjorie “June” Culp at the age of 90.

June will be remembered for her deep love and devotion to her family and friends. She was predeceased by her husband Don who was the love of her life.

June was the cherished mother of Kevin and his wife Doreen; proud grandmother of Lindsay, Leslie (Brodie), and Jessica; and loving greatgrandmother of Carson and Lincoln.

Thank you to Dr. Cari Reed for her compassionate care.

A celebration of June’s life will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026, from 2-4 p.m. in the fireside room at Tallman Funeral Homes, 3277 King St, Vineland.

Cremation has taken place. A private family interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to WLHM would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences at www.tallmanfuneralhomes.ca

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dyson, douglas Albert

Passed away at Hamilton General Hospital, on Thursday, March 19, 2026, in his 73rd year. Beloved husband of Debbie (nee McWatters) for over 48 years. Loved father of Keri. Dear brother of Don Dyson (Nancy), John Dyson (Lucy) and Gord Dyson (Bev). Predeceased by his parents Joan and Albert Dyson. Doug will be remembered for his unique sense of humour. When you walked into a room, you knew it was him. He made you feel welcome, no matter who you were. He owned Milk ‘N Things, where he was able to keep track of the Grimsby teens. The parents would pop into his variety store to make sure their teens were OK. When he sold his store, he began a new career with Jones Packaging in London. That’s where he shined! Selling pharmaceutical packaging to pharmacies throughout the Niagara Region, Toronto and beyond. He started out at Orchardview Pharmacy every morning, avoiding the Toronto rush hour and he always came home early to avoid it again. (You do the math) Regardless, he was a respected salesperson. Most days, he stopped by to visit his parents. He was an avid camper, but since our retirement, we chose Sauble Beach as “our happy place”. Family was so important to Doug. He had many family dinners, where he was the host and always made sure there was more than enough food. Doug was a quiet Christian. He never lost sight of the importance of our church family. Grimsby was his home. Cremation and private services have taken place. If desired, memorial contributions to the Humane Society of Greater Niagara or McNally House Hospice would be sincerely appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755. www.smithsfh.com

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McCorMaCk, Maureen ann 1956 - 2026

The family of Maureen McCormack (Gallagher) sadly announces her passing, peacefully at the United Mennonite Home, surrounded by her loving family on March 23, 2026. Beloved wife and soulmate of 39 years to the late Paul McCormack. Together again after a profound loss, their love remains a guiding light for all who knew them.

Maureen was a devoted and loving mother to Clare Jacob (Paul) and Connor McCormack (Charlie), who were the center of her world. She was a cherished sister to Pauline (Ed), Brian, Ann Marie (Clive), John (Lynn), and Andrew, and a dear daughter of the late Patricia and Charles Gallagher.

Maureen lived a life full of love, adventure, and deep connection to those around her. She had a passion for travel and experienced the world with curiosity and joy. Her heart always returned to her favourite place—Anguilla—her island home, where she felt most at peace.

She spent part of her career supporting individuals with special needs, a role that reflected her natural compassion and kindness. Above all, Maureen was an incredible mother. She was strong, funloving, supportive, and endlessly caring, the kind of person you could always turn to, no matter what. Her warmth, strength, and love will be forever cherished by her children and all who knew her.

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The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the incredible staff at the United Mennonite Home for their care and compassion. A very special thank you to Stacy Yarrow for the exceptional care and companionship she provided during the last few years of Maureen’s life. We are deeply grateful. A Celebration of Life will be held at Dodsworth and Brown Funeral Home – Burlington Chapel (2241 New Street, Burlington) on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 6:00–8:00 p.m.

In honour of Maureen’s calm, cool, and effortlessly chic spirit, we invite you to wear something that reflects her style. It may be a little too cold for her favourite white linen, but anything relaxed, elegant, and true to you would be just right. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Maureen’s memory to the United Mennonite Home in Vineland.

Kindly take a moment to leave a favourite memory or kind word on her virtual guestbook at: www.dbburlington.ca

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CLEAnUP

heywood, (nee dier)

OBITUARIES

Catherine (Cathy) Faye

Peacefully passed away at home, surrounded by her family, on Friday, December 19, 2025, in her 71st year. Beloved wife of John Heywood, devoted mother to Sean (Jenn) and Kevin (Marie), and proud grandmother to Taylor, Trystan, Evelyn, and Cole-whom she loved to the moon and back. Dear sister of Bill Dier (Linda) and aunt of Kate (Dillon). Predeceased by her parents Helen and Stan Dier. Cathy dedicated 40 years to nursing, serving at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hamilton and West Lincoln Memorial Hospital in Grimsby. She cherished traveling, skiing, and cheering on her sons at every sporting event. Later, her greatest joy was watching her grandchildren and neighborhood kids grow and play. As per Cathy’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, Grimsby (905-945-2755) on Saturday, April 18, 2026 from 2-4 p.m. Donations to West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation would be deeply appreciated by the family. www.smithsfh.com

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zanni, antonio

Peacefully, after a long illness, Tony passed away, with his family by his side on Monday March 16, 2026 at Albright Manor in Beamsville, at the age of 87.

Tony was the loving husband of Carolyn (Cassidy), dear Father of Louis (Jen), Karen (Chris) Petendra, and Anthony (Tanya). Papa to Robert, Reilly, Jordan, Rebecca and Angie.

Brother of Filomena (late Carmelo) Elia, Mary (late Tony) Macri, Brother-in-law to Della (late John) Cassidy and Patricia (late Michael) Cassidy.

Survived and loved by many nieces, nephews, cousins & many good friends.

Tony was born in Visano Calvi Risorta, Caserta Italy and came to Canada when he was 17 yrs old. He worked at Stelco for 32 yrs, retiring in 1992, and he ran a fruit farm from 1974 to 2005.

Visitation was held at Tallman Funeral Homes, Vineland on Friday March 27.

Funeral Mass was held on Saturday March 28 at at St Helen’s Church in Beamsville.

The family would like to thank the amazing nurses at Albright Manor for the care and compassion Tony received. Donations to Albright Manor also requested by the family.

Online condolences at www.tallmanfuneralhomes.ca

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ALL CLAIMS against the Estate of STEPHEN WHITELEY, late of Grimsby, Ontario, who died on July 11, 2025, must be filed with the undersigned by July 31, 2026. Thereafter the assets of the Estate will be distributed having regard only to those claims then filed. Dated March 1, 2026.

Joanne Kemp 16, Banbury Crescent Grimsby, Ontario L3M 4N8

Estate Trustee, Estate of Stephen Whiteley

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HAT TRICK HOCKEY

Week 22 (Standing as of March 29th, 2026)

Be sure to look online at: wn3.ca to see the full standings, but here are some of the leaders and lucky random draw winners:

• $15 Gift Card, courtesy of Tim Hortons, Grimsby: Hunter Simmons

• $15 gift certificate courtesy of Jordan Flowers,Grimsby: Matteo Vallorani

• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Judge & Jester, Grimsby: Julia Crowder

• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Canadian Tire, Grimsby: Audie Leenaars

• Large, 3-Item Pizza, Pick-Up Only, courtesy of Gino’s Pizza Grimsby: Frank Elzar

• $15 Gift Card courtesy of Memphis BBQ., Winona: Brittany Munden

• 2 Tickets to a Grimsby Peach Kings game, Grimsby: Ross McCallum Winners can stop by the NewsNow office to pick up their winnings

Top Standings

1. Dunda, Riley 1427

2. Baer, David 1425

3. Zdriluk, Jacob 1422

4. Heinen, Eric 1417

5. Klages, Keith 1416

6. Kurpis, Steve 1414

7. Heywood, Kevin 1414

8. Mous, Brent 1413

9. Rohner, Griffin 1407

10. Hurtubise, Alison 1403

11. Couch, Jesse 1400

12. Campbell, Matt 1400

13. DeVries, Mark 1399

14. Kemp, Blair 1396

15. Waite, Tori 1395

16. Poz, Cindy ............... 1393

17. Attema, Sophia 1392

18. Simmons, Cam ...... 1392

19. Fretz, Kai 1390

20. Jacobsen, Sean.... 1389

Quiet week goes kaboom

Just when you think it might be a week on the quieter side all heck breaks loose hours before press.

Table for 3

(L to R) Jodie Clarke, Una Malcolm and Sheri Gamble helped fill a table at the 1st North Grimsby Scouts pasta dinner on Sunday evening at Mountain Ridge Community Centre. The event helped raise money for a summer trip to Haliburton Scout Camp. Loree - Photo

Going out as she conducted herself...

Opinion on this page has not always agreed with Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton, but a lot has.

And that’s the way it should be for any politician, regardless of level, if they have stayed in the game for any length of time.

Opinions will differ. What sets politicians apart is how they deal with that reality. Some get bitter and lash out - hmm, could that be Grimsby - while others take it all in, reason the other’s views can differ, and present their case for differing thought in a respectful, thoughtful manner.

The latter is Sandra Easton. Steady, thoughtful and articulate. For a media hack, a pleasure to deal withalways. Glad to see she will get a victory lap. M.W.

Calls keep coming in about Grimsby’s public information centre (not a “meeting” apparently); Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton announced she would not seek re-election in this fall’s municipal election, and; the feds and provincial governments step up with an $8.8 billion program to push a reduction in development charges in an effort to stimulate housing production.

The Grimsby stuff I am not going to get into other than to say the format was unfortunate (and I am being extremely kind, but I will say at least they tried something unlike Lincoln).

It was betwixt and between. The bigger issue many had was Grimsby’s meeting starting at 4:30 p.m. For a meeting where, in theory, they wanted to draw public sentiment, a 4:39 start was straight up silly.

Moving on, I read through the info in the Province’s release regarding the $8.8 billion program to improve transportation initiativeswhich will have very little affect on Niagara West residents hence my focus on the development charge (DC) aspect - and the major overhaul of planning control with a blanket structure to override Official Plans (OP) and the DC reduction of 50 per cent.

To boil that down to say it is all to stimulate housing

construction undersells the ultimate impact of all that was in that release.

When you see boo-hooing like municipal OPs “have become lengthy, complicated and highly restrictive, with varying formats, rules and content”, look out people.

OPs are supposed to be detailed and complicated. They provide a rudder for all planning matters, bar none, in a municipality. Would it be better just to draft them quick and simple of the back of a Bazooka bubble gum comic?

That might be the dumbest statement I’ve ever seen in a government press release.

Then it’s followed by....”Don’t worry, we simplify things for you” - my words...here is the real next line.

“Proposed changes include establishing a standardized table of contents and limiting land use designations so they are easier to navigate.”

Anyone who has paid any kind of attention to

planning matters in the last decade - and even more so in the last 4-5 years - will know standards have all been set to what works in Toronto and the ripple affect has washed across the entire province flooding small towns with far higher density and building height issues never before faced.

So if those changes - and the evolution of the Ontario Municipal Board (now the Ontario Land Tribunal) into a “yes” organization for all things developers wantis not enough, this white washing of OPs could be the obliteration of the last line of defence for small town wants when it comes to planning.

I checked with MPP Sam Oosterhoff on that.

“From my perspective, this won’t remove all the local oversight, but it will ensure there is more consistency in the way the law is applied across the province, including in Niagara, and help get more homes built,” his comment.

I hope so, but I’ve seen too many of these things which turn out to wolves in sheep’s clothing.

Like why would the 50 per cent DC reduction program have an opt-in or optout? Why would anyone opt out if the loss in revenue is covered? That tells me the whole 50 per cent may not get covered and local municipalities will end up eating added cost.

As West Lincoln Mayor Cheryl Ganann noted, the devil will be in the details.

MIKE WILLISCRAFT

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Provincial/federal partnership to boost home building Development charges eliminated or reduced for developers

By MIke Williscraft NewsNow

A new $8.8 billion provincial/federal partnership meant to speed housing development and GTA traffic has local elected officials looking for details.

On Monday, a partnership was announced which will eliminate development charges (DCs) from non-profit retirement homes to expand affordable housing options for seniors and by 50 per cent on other builds; establishing a standardized table of contents and limiting land use designations so they are easier to navigate, and; remove municipal authority to require enhanced development standards.

DCs are key to growth, paying for new roads, libraries and transit systems, along with water and wastewater and other infrastructure.

Municipalities which opt into the agreement can be compensated so they can reduce

DCs by 50 per cent for the next three years.

Spurring building is great, says West Lincoln Mayor Cheryl Ganann, but she is waiting for the details on the plan as she is worried taxpayers could foot costs and municipalities could lose control they do have now.

“Although, on the surface, these changes to DCs appear that they should not have a negative impact on municipalities, the details regarding the process for ensuring that municipalities, especially smaller municipalities, are adequately compensated are currently missing,” said Ganann.

“DCs fund the necessary infrastructure for new homes to be built. It remains to be seen if this joint program will cover any of the resulting costs if DC charges are cut as suggested. The devil is in the details seems to apply for the time being until we learn more.”

Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff said the new program should be a big help to get homes built.

“Some municipalities leverage site plan control to impose costly enhanced development standards that go beyond what is required for health and safety reasons. The proposed legislation would remove municipal authority to require enhanced development standards. The government will also consult on major structural reforms to site plan control more broadly to deliver faster, more predictable approvals,” said Oosterhoff.