HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-20-2026NFNiagara MINUTES
Fall" City Council Meeting
2:00 PM - Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Council Chambers / Zoom App.
The City Council meeting of the City of Niagara Falls was called to order on Tuesday, January
201 2026, at 2:10 PM, in the Council Chambers, with the following members present:
COUNCIL Mayor Jim Diodati, Councillor Tony Baldinelli, Councillor Chris Dabrowski,
PRESENT: Councillor Vince Kerrio, Councillor Lori Lococo, Councillor Ruth -Ann
Nieuwesteeg, Councillor Mona Patel, Councillor Victor Pietrangelo,
Councillor Mike Strange
STAFF Jason Burgess, Bill Matson, Erik Nickel, Scott Lawson, Nidhi Punyarthi,
PRESENT: Kathy Moldenhauer, Tiffany Clark, Shelley Darlington, Serge Felicetti,
Chris Gallagher, Kira Dolch, Tara O'Toole (In attendance in Chambers)
Kailen Goerz (over Zoom)
1. CALL TO ORDER
The City Council meeting was called to order at 2:10 PM.
2. IN CAMERA SESSION OF COUNCIL
2.1. In -Camera Resolution
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
THAT Council enter into a closed meeting session on January 20, 2026.
Carried Unanimously
3. CALL TO ORDER -COUNCIL MEETING RECONVENING
The City Council meeting was reconvened at 4:19 PM.
4. ADOPTION OF MINUTES
4.1. Council Minutes of December 9, 2025
Moved by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
Seconded by Councillor Lori Lococo
THAT Council APPROVE the Council minutes of December 9, 2025.
Carried Unanimously
5. DISCLOSURES OF PECUNIARY INTEREST
No disclosures of pecuniary interest reported.
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6. MAYOR'S REPORTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS
a) Mayor Diodati offered sympathy to the family of:
• City Crossing Guard Bryan Smith
• Sylveria Subnaik, mother of Chief Librarian Alicia Subnaik Kilgour
• Permod Goyal, a long-time active and engaged member of our
community.
b) Mayor Diodati informed Council and the public on the following events and
announcements:
Destination Niagara Announcement
• Also attended by Councillor Patel
Senior's Art Exhibit at Chapel Heights
• Also attended by Councillor Nieuwesteeg
Puck Drop at Niagara Riverhawks Home Opener
Chippawa Polar Bear Dip
Councillor Representation
Councillor Lococo
New Year's Levee at the Armoury
• Ukrainian Parish 25th Anniversary
Councillor Patel
• Grand Opening Tabbar Social Kitchen
• Certificate Presentation to Jason Shawana
_
Councillor Nieuwesteeg
• NF Firefighter's Association Retirement
Dinner
Business Milestones and Events:
• Grand Opening Sining Cafe (at The Exchange)
o Also attended by Councillors Lococo and Patel
• Grand Opening Young and Beautiful Salon &Spa (Victoria Ave)
o Also attended by Councillors Patel and Nieuwesteeg
• Grand Opening Em Nails and Spa (Portage Road)
o Also attended by Councillors Nieuwesteeg and Patel
• Grand Opening Planet Fitness (Lundy's Lane at Canada One Outlets)
o Also attended by Councillors Dabrowski, Patel, Lococo, Baldinelli,
Nieuwesteeg and Strange
• 10 Year Anniversary — 4 Seasons Nails (Amore Plaza, Lundy's Lane)
o Also attended by Councillors Patel and Nieuwesteeg
• Grand Opening Sol Yoga Niagara (Portage Road)
o Also attended by Councillors Nieuwesteeg and Patel
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• Grand Opening Ehsaan by Sakha (Queen Street)
o Also attended by Councillor Patel
c) The next Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 27, 2026 -
Operating Budget Meeting.
7. DEPUTATIONS /PRESENTATIONS /APPOINTMENTS
7.1. Civic Recognition -International Dance Organization Championships
Mayor Diodati recognized the achievements of two siblings, Fiona and Angie
Li. These outstanding athletes represented Canada as the official Team
Canada Dance team and recently visited Italy to participate in the Dance
Organization Championships.
Along with their teams, Angie brought home a gold and a bronze medal, and
Fiona brought home a bronze medal, all on the international stage,
representing Canada.
7.2. Appointment Request -Regional Chair Bob Gale
Regional Chair Bob Gale provided an update to Council by way of introducing
himself and his new appointment to Council and to the public and further spoke
of his plans to support the City of Niagara Falls,
7.3. Declaration of Vacant Seat - Regional Councillor for the City of Niagara
Falls
Attached is a letter from the Niagara Region regarding the Vacancy of a
Regional Councillor for the City of Niagara Falls. Also attached is a memo from
City Clerk, Bill Matson outlining the details of the current vacancy.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE this memorandum for information
and advise the Regional Municipality of Niagara that Barbara Greenwood be its
preferred appointee to fill the vacancy on Regional Council.
Moved by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
Seconded by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
THAT Council RECEIVE this memorandum for information and advise the
Regional Municipality of Niagara that Barbara Greenwood be its preferred
appointee to fill the vacancy on Regional Council.
Carried Unanimously
7.4. Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee
The City's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Advisory Committee presented
to Council, sharing highlights of their work and plans for the 3rd Annual DEI
Summit, taking place April 14, 2026, at The Exchange. The Summit will bring
together leaders, organizations, and residents across Niagara to share ideas,
join discussions, and celebrate DEI in our community.
During the presentation, Marilyn Tian, Chair of the DEI Advisory Committee,
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presented the Community DEI Award to Lilian Lum Mbah, CEO/Founder of
Divine Healthcare Staffing Inc., in recognition of her leadership and
contributions to promoting inclusion in Niagara.
The DEI Committee is now accepting nominations for the 2026 DEI Award in
three key categories:
Workplace
•Community Impact
•Youth Empowerment
The presentation showcased the committee's ongoing efforts to support equity,
diversity, and inclusion across the community while highlighting the exciting
plans for next year's Summit.
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
THAT Council RECEIVE the presentation brought before Council by Marilyn
Tian, DEI Advisory Committee Chair, of which outlined an overview of the DEI
Advisory Committee and their annual DEI Summit for 2026.
Carried Unanimously
8. PLANNING MATTERS
8.1. PBD-2026-01 -Public Meeting
Zoning By-law Amendment, Vacant Land at the Corner of Dorchester and
Oldfield Road, to construct 2 new apartment buildings 6 storey in height
with a total of 106 dwelling units.
Applicant: 14456335 Canada Inc. (Steve Murdza)
Agent% William Heikoop (Upper Canada Consultants)
The Public Meeting commenced at 5:01 PM.
Nick DeBenedetti, Planner 2, provided an overview of Report PBD-2026-01.
Les Neufeld, Director of Operations of Paif; nger, addressed Council citing
concerns of the proposed residential growth. Mr. Neufeld wants the vacant
parcel on Dorchester Road to stay zoned a industrial.
Ken Scholtens, representing the Niagara Industrial Association, addressed
Council opposing the proposed application. He addressed his concerns
regarding the negative impact that conversion of employment lands to
residential would have on the future economic vitality of the current businesses
and the negative impact to the larger industrial area.
Mayor Diodati left Chambers at 5:54 PM and Councillor Pietrangelo resumed
as Chair. Mayor Diodati returned at 6:01 PM.
Chelsea Liotta and William Heikoop, acting as the agents from Upper Canada
Consultants, provided a presentation to support the planning application.
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The Public Meeting closed at 6:09 PM.
Moved by Councillor Mona Patel
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT Council RECEIVES for information, report PBD 2026-001, regarding
applications for Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment (AM
2024-018) for the Vacant Land at the Corner of Dorchester and Oldfield Road.
Carried Unanimously
8.2 PBD-2026-02 - Public Meeting
AM-2025-019, Zoning By-law Amendment, 7956 Spring Blossom Drive and small
portion of rear part of 7948 Spring Blossom Drive, to rezone the subject lands to
a site specific R4 zone to permit the development of 7 townhomes.
Applicant: MW ONTARIO INC. (Faraz Masood)
Agent: Josiah Guevarra
The Public meeting commenced at 6:09 PM.
Nick DeBenedetti, Planner 2, provided an overview of Report PBD-2026-02.
Councillor Strange left the meeting at 6:22 PM and returned at 6:24 PM.
Councillor Kerrio left the meeting at 6:45 PM and returned at 6:55 PM.
Dan Cummings, of 7971 Harvest Crescent, opposed the application citing safety,
parking, garbage, speeding and compatibility issues.
Velichka Ivanov Peneva, of 7989 Harvest Crescent, opposed the application citing
concerns about visitor parking to the proposed development
Sherry Albers, of 8020 Spring Blossom Drive, addressed Council, citing concerns of
garbage location and emergency vehicle access and site lines will be obstructed.
Don Quait, of 8028 Spring Blossom Drive, opposed the proposed development citing
concerns relating to distances and the location of the garbage, parking concerns etc...
Damian lamarino, of 8036 Spring Blossom Drive, addressed Council citing
compatibility concerns within the neighbourhood.
Bruno and Patrick Galante (Builders), addressed Council supporting the development
and answered questions of the residents.
The Public meeting closed at 7:19 PM.
Moved by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
Seconded by Councillor Mona Patel
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THAT Council DENY the Zoning By-law Amendment to rezone the subject lands to a
site -specific Residential Low Density, Grouped Multiple Dwellings (R4) Zone to
facilitate the development of the 7 townhouse units.
Ayes: Councillor Victor Pietrangelo, Councillor Mike Strange, Councillor Tony
Baldinelli, Councillor Mona Patel, Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg,
and Councillor Chris Dabrowski
Nays: Councillor Lori Lococo and City Councillor Vince Kerrio
Carried (Councillor Kerrio and Councillor Lococo were opposed). 6-2 on a
recorded vote
8.3. PBD-2026-03 - Public Meeting
AM-2025-020, Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment at 3665
Macklem Street. The applicant is proposing to construct a 5-storey, 45-
unit apartment building.
Applicant: Vedas Developers Inc. (Dhruvkumar Thakkar)
Agent: Zamina Khan (Quartek Group)
The Public meeting commenced at 7:20 PM.
Councillor Baldinelli left the meeting at 7:21 PM and returned at 7:27 PM.
Councillor Strange left the meeting at 7:21 PM and returned at 7:27 PM.
Councillor Dabrowski left the meeting at 7:21 PM and returned at 7:55 PM.
Councillor Nieuwesteeg left the meeting at 7:22 PM and returned at 7:35 PM.
Councillor Pietrangelo left the meeting at 7:33 PM and returned at 7:44 PM.
Nick DeBenedetti, Planner 2, provided an overview of Report PBD-2026-03.
Zamima Khan (Agent from the Quartek Group Inc) and Adam Moote (Planner
froIII ADM Consultants) provided a presentation to Council supporting the
proposal.
The Public meeting closed at 7:42 PM.
Moved by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
1. THAT Council APPROVE the Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment
to increase the permitted height allowed in the Official Plan for this site within
the Chippawa Satellite District and add site specific provisions to the
Residential Apartment 5C Density (R5C) regarding the lot area, height
requirement and reduction of the parking standard.
2. THAT Council AUTHORIZE the amending draft zoning by-law which
includes a sunset clause to require the execution of a Site Plan Agreement
within three years of the amending by-law coming into effect, with the
possibility of a one-year extension at the discretion of the General Manager of
Planning, Building and Development.
Carried Unanimously (Councillors Dabrowski and Pietrangelo were
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absent from the vote).
8.4 P0D-2026-04 - Public Meeting
AM-2025-008, Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment Application
5523-5555 Fraser Street and 5518 George Street
Proposal: 4 storey apartment building (31 units)
Applicant: Sam Visca
Agent: Michael Allen (ACK Architects Studio Inc)
The Public meeting commenced at 7:42 PM.
Chris Roome, Planner 2, provided an overview of Report PBD-2026-04.
Mayor Diodati left Chambers at 8:04 PM and Councillor Pietrangelo resumed as Chair.
Mayor Diodati returned at 8:08 PM.
Ken Scholtens, representing the Niagara Industrial Association, spoke to Council in
opposition of the proposal, citing zoning issues. Mr. Scholtens supports industry within
the city.
Roman Hrycyshyn, Vice -President of Oleo Energies, addressed Council citing his
opposition to this application.
Linda Pope, of 5626 George Street, addressed Council citing traffic and parking issues
on George Street and Stanley. Also had concerns about the current watermain on the
street.
Katherine Serroul, of 5548 Fraser Street addressed Council opposing the proposal
ng parking and traffic issues on Fraser Street.
Scott Selvig, of 5594 Fraser Street, addressed Council opposed to the application
citing parking, traffic, greenspace and location concerns.
Rocky Vacca, Solicitor, made a presentation before Council representing the applicant,
in support of the proposal.
The Public meeting was closed at 920 PM.
The Chair called a 10 minute recess at 9:21 PM.
Council resumed at 943 PM.
Moved by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
Seconded by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
1. THAT Council APPROVE the Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law
Amendment to redesignate the lands from Employment Lands to Residential
with a Special Policy Area to permit apartment dwellings, and to rezone the
lands from Prestige Industrial to a site -specific R5C zone to permit the
construction of a 4 storey apartment building containing 31 dwelling units.
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2. THAT Council AUTHORIZE the amending by-law to include a sunset clause to
require the execution of a Site Plan Agreement within three years of the
amending by-law coming into effect, with the possibility of a one-year extension
at the discretion of the General Manager of Planning, Building and
Development.
Ayes: Mayor Jim Diodati, Councillor Victor Pietrangelo, Councillor Mike
Strange, Councillor Tony Baldinelli, and City Councillor Vince Kerrio
Nays: Councillor Lori Lococo, Councillor Mona Patel, Councillor Ruth -Ann
Nieuwesteeg, and Councillor Chris Dabrowski
Carried 5-4 on a recorded vote
Moved by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
Seconded by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
THAT Council extend the curfew of the Council meeting past 10:00 PM.
Carried Unanimously
8.5 PBD-2026-05 -Public Meeting
AM-2025-009, Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment Application
5584 Fraser Street
Proposal: 4 storey apartment building (18 units)
Applicant: Sam Visca
Agent: Michael Allen (ACK Architects Studio Inc)
The Public meeting commenced at 9:55 PM.
Chris Roome, Planner 2, provided an overview of Report PBD-2026-04 &PBD-2026-
05 (presented with Item #8.41.
The Public meeting closed at 9:56 PM.
Moved by Councillor Mike Strange
Seconded by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
1. THAT Council APPROVE the Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law
Amendment to redesignate the lands from Employment Lands to Residential
with a Special Policy Area to permit apartment dwellings with a maximum net
density of 161 units per hectare, and to rezone the lands from Prestige Industrial
to a site -specific R5F zone to permit the construction of a 4-storey apartment
building containing 18 dwelling units.
2. THAT Council AUTHORIZE the amending by-law to include a sunset clause to
require the execution of a Site Plan Agreement within three years of the
amending by-law coming into effect, with the possibility of a one-year extension
at the discretion of the General Manager of Planning, Building and Development
Ayes: Mayor Jim Diodati, Councillor Victor Pietrangelo, Councillor Mike
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Strange, Councillor Tony Baldinelli, and City Councillor Vince Kerrio
Nays: Councillor Lori Lococo, Councillor Mona Patel, Councillor Ruth -Ann
Nieuwesteeg, and Councillor Chris Dabrowski
Carried 54 on a recorded vote
8.6. PBD-2026-06 - Public Meeting
AM-2025-027, Zoning By-law Amendment Application at 4902 Hunter
Street to permit the use of the existing duplex as vacation rental units.
Applicant: Kim Barclay
Agent: Emilie Brodeur (Land Pro Planning Solutions)
The Public meeting commenced at 9:57 PM.
Chris Roome, Planner 2, provided an overview of Report PBD-2026-06.
Emily Brodeur, agent, was in attendance but it was not necessary for her to
provide a presentation.
The Public meeting closed at 10:01 PM.
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
1. THAT Council APPROVE the Zoning By-law Amendment to permit the
use of the lands for two Vacation Rental unit's (VRU's) within the
existing duplex, subject to the regulations outlined in this report.
Carried Unanimously
9. REPORTS
9.1. CS-2026-05 -Finance
2026 Interim Tax Levy
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT Council APPROVE the 2026 Interim Tax Levy calculation and by-law
providing for the 2026 Interim Tax Levy.
Carried Unanimously
9.2. PBD-2026-08
Update on Motion for Community and Stakeholder Meeting on Lundy's
Lane
Moved by Councillor Mona Patel
Seconded by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
1. THAT Council RECEIVE this report for information purposes.
2. THAT Council ADOPT the 2017 Lundy's Lane Urban Design Guidelines,
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included as `Appendix 5' as a standalone document to ensure
continued guidance for development and urban design review within the
Lundy's Lane corridor, following the discontinuation of the Lundy's Lane
CIP as part of the new comprehensive CIP.
3. THAT Council DIRECT staff to update and incorporate the Lundy's Lane
Urban Design Guidelines in the new City-wide Urban Design Guidelines,
4. THAT Council DIRECT staff to prepare an Interim Control By-law to
restrict motel conversions on Lundy's Lane until the new Official Plan is
in place.
5. THAT Council DIRECT staff to update the Site Plan Control Bylaw and
Site Plan Control Guidelines to provide clarification that motel
conversions are subject to site plan control.
6. THAT Council DIRECT staff to continue community and stakeholder
meetings in the future with Planning staff.
Carried Unanimously
9.3. PBD-2026-09
Recommendation Report
Adoption of the Niagara Falls Community Improvement Plan
City Council has approved a new Community Improvement Plan (CIP) that
brings several older plans together into one clear, city-wide program to support
reinvestment, redevelopment, and community revitalization across the city.
The new CIP includes five financial incentive programs to support growth
and renewal:
• Brownfield Environmental Study Grant -Helps cover the cost of
environmental studies on contaminated or underused sites.
• Brownfield Tax Increment Grant - Encourages the cleanup and
redevelopment of brownfield sites by rebating a portion of increased
property taxes after redevelopment.
• Urban Infill Tax Increment Grant - Supports redevelopment of
underused properties, especially mixed -use and higher -density projects
in key areas.
• Employment Generator Tax Increment Grant - Helps attract and keep
major employers by reducing municipal tax impacts for new or
expanding jobs.
• Streetscape Improvement Grant - Helps property owners improve
building fronts, accessibility, heritage features, and overall streetscape
appearance.
The new CIP is expected to take effect on February 12, 2026, following the
appeal period, and will help encourage investment, job creation, and
community renewal across Niagara Falls.
Moved by Councillor Mona Patel
Seconded by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
1. THAT Council APPROVE the Niagara Falls Community Improvement
Plan (CIP) attached as `Appendix 1'
2. THAT Council ADOPT By-law No. 2026-004, attached as' ppendix 2'
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to designate the Community Improvement Project Area shown on
'Schedule Alto By-law No. 2026-004.
3. THAT Council ADOPT By-law No. 2026-005, attached as 'Appendix 3'
to adopt the Community Improvement Plan.
4. THAT Council REPEAL the existing Community Improvement Plan By-
laws: By-law No. 2020-30, By-law No. 2019-85, By-law No. 2019-86, By-
law No. 2018-031, By-law No. 2018-032, By-law No. 2015-140, By-law
No. 2006-060, By-law No. 2006-226, By-law No. 2006-227, By-law No.
2004-223, By-law No. 2004-224.
5. THAT Council AUTHORIZE staff to implement the programs and
administrative framework outlined in the Community Improvement Plan
and in this report.
6. THAT Council DELEGATE authority to the General Manager of
Planning, Building and Development for the approval of Brownfield
Environmental Study Grant and Streetscape Improvement Grant
applications.
7. THAT Council DIRECT staff to prepare amendments to the Parkland
Dedication By-laws and the Development Charge Exemption Policy
aligned with the Niagara Falls CIP,
8. THAT Council AUTHORIZE the General Manager of Planning, Building
and Development to make such stylistic and technical changes to the
Community Improvement Plan, as may be required.
9. THAT Council DIRECT staff to send a copy of this report to the Region
of Niagara.
Carried Unanimously
10. CONSENT AGENDA
10.1. CAO-2026-01
Request for Downtown BIA funds for the continuation of a destination
marketing and public relations project for 2026.
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT Council APPROVE the transfer of up to $60,000 from the Downtown BIA
unspent levy being held in reserve to fund the continuation of a downtown
destination marketing and public relations project for all of 2026.
Carried Unanimously
10.2. MW-2026-01
Watermain Portage Road to Orlando Drive Coordination with 3846
Portage Road (former Stamford Lions Club)
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
1. THAT Staff be DIRECTED to enter into an agreement for cost sharing
for coordination of the installation of a new watermain between Portage
Road and Stamford Lion Park in conjunction with the works scheduled
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as part of the redevelopment and siteplan of 3846 Portage Road.
2. THAT Council DELEGATE their authority for the execution of the cost
sharing agreement to the General Manager of Municipal Works.
Carried Unanimously
10.3. PBD-2026-07
Quarter 3 2025: Housing and Growth Monitoring Report
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
1. THAT Council RECEIVE the Quarter 3 Housing and Growth Monitoring
Report that reviews the status of current development and housing
activity in the City of Niagara Falls from July 1 through September 30 of
2025 (Q3).
2. THAT Council DIRECT staff to forward the housing information to the
Province as required.
Carried Unanimously
11. COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMENTS OF THE CITY CLERK
11.1. Flag -Raising Request -Crime Stoppers Awareness Month -January 2026
Attached is a request for Council to approve a flag -raising ceremony at Niagara
Falls City Hall, to recognize Crime Stoppers Month in January 2026.
Recommendation: THAT Council APPROVE aflag-raising ceremony at
Niagara Falls City Hall, to recognize Crime Stoppers Month in January 2026.
11.2. Flag -Raising Request -Serbian Statehood Day
The Serbian Community is requesting Council to approve a flag -raising
ceremony for the Serbian Flag at City Hall on February 15-17, 2026 to honour
Serbian Statehood Day.
Recommendation: THAT Council APPROVE aflag-raising ceremony for the
Serbian Flag at City Hall on February 15-17, 2026 to honour Serbian
Statehood Day.
Flag -Raising Request -Bell Let's Talk Day -Wednesday, January 21st,
2026
Attached is a request for Council to approve aflag-raising on Wednesday,
January 21, 2026 to recognize Bell Let's Talk Day. Niagara Falls will be
illuminated in blue in the evening to mark the day.
Recommendation: THAT Council APPROVE the Bell Let's Talk flag to be
raised on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 to recognize youth mental health.
Flag -Raising and Proclamation Request -Preventative Healthcare
Awareness Month
Attached is a request for the City to proclaim the month of February as
"Preventative Healthcare Awareness Month" and to arrange aflag-raising
ceremony to recognize this initiative.
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Recommendation: THAT Council PROCLAIM the month of February as
"Preventative Healthcare Awareness Month" and to arrange a flag -raising
ceremony to recognize this initiative.
Proclamation Request -Indigenous Survivors Day and National Blanket
Ceremony Day
Attached is a request for the City of Niagara Falls to proclaim Tuesday, June
30, 2026 as Indigenous Survivors Day and National Blanket Ceremony Day.
Recommendation: THAT Council PROCLAIM Tuesday, June 30, 2026 as
Indigenous Survivors Day and National Blanket Ceremony Day.
11.6. Flag -Raising and Proclamation Request- Parental Alienation Awareness
Day
Attached is a request for Council to PROCLAIM Saturday, April 25, 2026 as
"Parental Alienation Awareness Day" and to arrange a flag -raising ceremony to
recognize this initiative.
Recommendation: THAT Council PROCLAIM Saturday, April 25, 2026 as
"Parental Alienation Awareness Day" and to arrange a flag -raising ceremony to
recognize this initiative.
11.7. Flag -Raising Request - Kosovo Independence Day
Attached is a request for a flag -raising on February 17, 2026 to recognize
Kosovo's Independence Day and to PROCLAIM this day as such. The
Consulate General of the Republic of Kosovo in Toronto is a diplomatic mission
furthering diplomatic relations between Kosovo and Canada, with an emphasis
on the GTA and Southern Ontario community. A flag -raising ceremony in
Niagara Falls symbolizes an important gesture that Kosovo and Canada
maintain strong relations, with a celebration of Kosovar diaspora in Ontario.
Recommendation: THAT Council APPROVE a flag to be raised on February
17, 2026 to recognize Kosovo's Independence Day and to PROCLAIM this day
as such.
Memo from Planning Department -11211 Sodom Road (Willoughby
Township Hall) -Roof Replacement
Attached is a memo from the Manager of Policy Planning regarding 11211
Sodom Road (Willoughby Township Hall) - Roof Replacement.
Recommendation: THAT Council SUPPORT the replacement of the existing
roof shingles with a cedar shake profile ashphalt coating metal roof at 11211
Sodom Road.
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
THAT Council APPROVE/SUPPORT Item #11.1 through to and including Item
Carried Unanimously
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12. COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMENTS OF THE CITY CLERK
12.1. Correspondence from the Niagara Region
Attached is correspondence from the Niagara Region relating to the following
matters:
1) Niagara Region -Waste Management 2026 Operating Budget and
Requisition
2) Niagara Region - 2026 Budget - Water and Wastewater Operating Budget,
Rate Setting ad Requisition
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
12.2. Resolution - Town of Smiths Falls - Ontario Community Infrastructure
Fund (OCIF)
Attached is a resolution passed by the Council of the Corporation of the Town
of Smiths Falls on December 1, 2025.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
12.3. Resolution -Municipality of St. Charles -Extend Deadline for the Fire
Certification
At its Regular Meeting of Council on December 3, 2025, Council for the
Corporation of the Municipality of St.Charles passed Resolution 2025-284
regarding Extending the Deadline for Fire Certification.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
Resolution -City of Thorold -MPAC Processes and methodologies
The Council for the City of Thorold, at its meeting on December 9, 2025,
passed the following resolution regarding the assessment processes and
methodologies of the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC).
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
12.5. Resolution -Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) -NPCA
position on the regional consolidation of Ontario's conservation
authorities
Attached is correspondence regarding NPCA's position on the proposed
regional consolidation of Ontario's conservation authorities for circulation.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
Resolution -South Huron Council -Opposition to Proposed
Consolidation of Conservation Authorities
South Huron Council passed a resolution at their December 1, 2025, Regular
Council Meeting regarding the above -noted matter.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
12.7. Resolution -City of Thorold -Opposition to the passage of Ontario's Bill
60
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The Council for the City of Thorold, at its meeting on December 9, 2025,
passed the following resolution regarding opposition to the passage of
Ontario's Bill 60.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
Resolution - City of Welland - State of Emergency for Homelessness
Attached is a motion passed by Welland's City Council on December 16, 2025,
regarding a state of emergency for homelessness.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
12.9 Office of the Integrity Commissioner —Matter No. IC-35731-1125 (Burdett
Complaint re: All Members of Council) Dismissal of Complaint
Attached is a report from the Integrity Commissioner with regard to the above -noted
matter.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
Moved by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
THAT Council DIRECT staff to bill Mr. Burdett for the remaining fees associated with
Matter No. IC-35731 -1 125, totalling $4000.00,
Ayes: Mayor Jim Diodati, Councillor Victor Pietrangelo, Councillor Mike
Strange, Councillor Tony Baldinelli, Councillor Mona Patel, Councillor
Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg, Councillor Chris Dabrowski, and City
Councillor Vince Kerrio
Nays: Councillor Lori Lococo
Carried (Councillor Lococo opposed) 8-1 on a recorded vote
12.10. Office of the Integrity Commissioner -Matter No. IC-35659-0825
Attached is a report from the Integrity Commissioner with regard to the above -
noted matter.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
12.11. Resolution -Town of Lincoln -Human Trafficking Prevention
Please be guided by the attached Town of Lincoln resolution, passed on
December 15, 2025, regarding endorsing the development of a Code of
Conduct for Human Trafficking Prevention in the Niagara Region.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT Council DIRECT staff to invite Niagara Regional Police, Brock University
and Tools of Empowerment for Success (TOES) to an upcoming Council
meeting to provide a presentation on Human Trafficking Prevention.
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Carried Unanimously
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
THAT Council RECEIVE FOR INFORMATION Item #12.1 through to Item
#12.10.
Carried Unanimously
13. RATIFICATION OF IN -CAMERA
Nothing to ratify.
14. MOTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION
14.1. Motion -Submitted by Councillor Nieuwesteeg -Filipino Day
Attached is a motion, submitted by Councillor Nieuwesteeg regarding Filipino
Day in June.
Moved by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT City Council DECLARE June 19 the City's annual Official Filipino Day.
Carried Unanimously
14.2. Motion -Submitted by Councillor Lococo -Neighbourhood Watch
Program
Attached is a motion, submitted by Councillor Lococo regarding safety
concerns for the residents and businesses of Niagara Falls.
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
THAT Council DIRECT the Manager of Municipal Enforcement and Security, to
report back to Council on the Neighbourhood Watch Program and to include an
overview of the retired Block Parent program.
Carried Unanimously
15. NOTICE OF MOTION
No notices of motion were brought forth.
16. NEW BUSINESS
a) Councillor Strange mentioned the following upcoming event:
"Teddy Bear Toss"
Thursday, January 29th, 2026, Gale Centre Arena, 7:30 PM Puck Drop
Free Admission to the Niagara Riverhawks Game with a new, tagged stuffed
animal and small cash donation.
All bears and donations to benefit Heater's Heroes Foundation and Ronald
McDonald House.
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b) Councillor Pietrangelo updated Council on the current vacancy on the
Environmental Action Committee and suggested that Council appoint Lesley
Laan to fill the vacancy.
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
THAT Council APPOINT Lesley Laan to the Environmental Action Committee
to fill the current vacancy.
Carried Unanimously
17. BY-LAWS
2026- A by-law to amend By-law No. 79-200, to permit the construction of 6
001. townhouse dwellings and 1 detached dwelling along a private roadway. (AM-
2024-019).
2026- A by-law to Designate the Niagara Falls Community Improvement Project Area,
004.
2026- A by-law to adopt the Niagara Falls Community Improvement Plan and to
005. repeal former community improvement project area by-laws and the
corresponding community improvement plan by-laws.
2026- A by-law to amend By-law No. 89-2000, being a by-law to regulate parking and
0062 traffic on City Roads. (Yield Signs at Intersections, Stop Signs at Intersections).
2026- A by-law to amend By-law No. 89-2000, being a by-law to regulate parking and
007. traffic on City Roads. (Parking Prohibited)
2026- A by-law to provide an interim levy of realty taxes.
008.
2026- A by-law to adopt, ratify and confirm the actions of the City Council at its
009. meeting held on the 20th day of January, 2026.
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT the by-laws be read a first, second and third time and passed.
18. ADJOURNMENT
Ca)
Adjournment
Moved by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
That Council ADJOURN the meeting at 11:06 PM.
Carried Unanimously
Carried Unanimously
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