HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-31-2026Niagara MINUTES
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City Council Meeting
2:00 PM -Tuesday, March 31, 2026
Council Chambers
The City Council Meeting of the City of Niagara Falls was called to order on Tuesday, March
313 2026, at 2:05 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, Tiffany Clark, Jo Zambito, Nidhi
PRESENT: Punyarthi, Kathy Moldenhauer, Kira Dolch, Brian Dick, Shelley Darlington,
Chris Gallagher, Jana Mills, Heather Ruzylo (attending in Chambers)
Jessica Blanchard (attended via Zoom)
1. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 2:05 PM.
2. IN CAMERA SESSION OF COUNCIL
2.1. In -Camera Resolution
Moved by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
THAT Council ENTER into an In -Camera session.
Carried Unanimously
3. CALL TO ORDER -COUNCIL MEETING RECONVENING
The Council meeting reconvened at 4:41 PM.
4. ADOPTION OF MINUTES
4.1. Council Minutes of March 3, 2026
Moved by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
Seconded by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
THAT Council APPROVE the minutes of the March 3, 2026 meeting as
presented.
Carried Unanimously
5. DISCLOSURES OF PECUNIARY INTEREST
a) Councillor Pietrangelo declared a conflict of interest to Report CAO-2026-02 -
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Revitalization Grant - Bentley Commons (from the March 3, 2026 Council
agenda), as the Councillor had previously declared a conflict previously for the
re -zoning. Councillor Pietrangelo owns property that can be affected.
b) Councillor Pietrangelo declared a conflict of interest to Item #15.1, Motion
submitted by Councillor Patel, as it deals with training for licensed short-term
rental operators and the Councillor owns property that can be affected.
Moved by Councillor Mona Patel
Seconded by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
THAT Council AGREE to move up Item #15.1 (Motion -submitted by
Councillor Mona Patel - Human Trafficking Prevention) in the agenda.
Carried Unanimously
6. MAYOR'S REPORTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS
a) Mayor Diodati offered condolences to the families of:
• Sally Jackman, mother-in-law of Dave Etherington of our IS Department.
• Ross Barone, long-time business owner of Portage Bakery, community
contributor, baker of the biggest community cakes! He will be dearly
missed in Niagara Falls, and his family continues the legacy.
b) Mayor Diodati mentioned the following city events:
Events &Announcements
Curling Win — 2026 Canadian Mixed Doubles
• Gray -Withers/ Pietrangelo took the championship title
• Defeated Alberta's Cinnamon and Tao 10-9 in the final
• It was a big comeback win last week in Surrey B.C.
• Went from being a wildcam team to winning the championship
• Congratulations to Niagara Falls' own Victor Pietrangelo (son of
Councillor Pietrangelo) and Serena Gray -Withers of Edmonton
• They are excited to go on to represent Canada at the 2027 World Mixed
Doubles next year!
Brunch, Bid &Bowl
• At Club Italia/ to raise funds for Birchway Niagara
• Also attended by Councillors Patel, Nieuwesteeg and Lococo
Air Canada Landline Announcement
• At Niagara District Airport
• Extend trips to Niagara Falls from Pearson on flights to and from
Toronto
• Also attended by Councillors Lococo, Baldinelli, Patel and Nieuwesteeg
Greening of the Falls
• At Table Rock House
• Minister Stan Cho in attendance
• Irish Weekend/ St. Patrick's Day
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Welland Mayor's Breakfast
• At Casa Dante Lounge in Welland
Eid Greetings
• NF Convention Centre
• Also attended by Councillors Lococo and Patel (Nieuwesteeg??)
Dodge Wars
• Niagara Falls Convention Centre
• Congrats to staff team 2nd place vs. other municipalities!
'79 Curling Championship Banner Presentation -Dennis O'Connor
• Niagara Falls Curling Club
• Former Junior Curlers/ students he coached
Electrical Distribution Association Awards Gala
• Fairmont Royal York — Toronto
Skal Hamilton/ Niagara Chapter Meeting
• Massimo's Fallsview Restaurant
Niagara College Gala
• Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort
• Also attended by Councillor Patel
Business Milestones and Events:
• Crowded Table Cafe at MacBain Centre Grand Opening
o Also attended by Councillors Strange, Lococo and Nieuwesteeg
• Capri/ Hairstyling (Portage Road) retirement after 57 years in
business
• Super Sub (McLeod Road/ Cogeco plaza) 40th Anniversary
o Also attended by Councillors Nieuwesteeg and Patel
• Stay Classy Barbershop (McLeod Road /A&W plaza) 1st
Anniversary
o Also attended by Councillors Nieuwesteeg and Patel
• Pho Huong Ngoc (Lundy's Lane/ Wendy's plaza)
o Also attended by Councillors Baldinelli, Patel and Strange
• Board to Bits Cafe (Portage Road) 1st Anniversary
c) Coming Up:
• Easter Break -Good Friday, April 3rd and Easter Monday, April 6th
• Next Council Meeting: Tuesday, April 21st
7. DEPUTATIONS /PRESENTATIONS
7.1. Niagara Parks Commission -Moving Tourism Forward in Niagara Falls
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David Adames, Chief Executive Officer at Niagara Parks Commission,
provided Council with a presentation pertaining to the Municipal
Accommodation Tax.
Direction to Staff: THAT Council direct the CAO to bring a report back to
Council outlining our portion of the Municipal Accommodation Tax.
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Mona Patel
THAT Council agree to move Item #13.3, Victoria Centre BIA - 2026 Budget
Levy, to Item #7.3 on the agenda.
Carried Unanimously
Moved by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
Seconded by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
THAT Council RECEIVE the presentation by David Adames, Chief Executive
Officer at Niagara Parks pertaining to the Municipal Accommodation Tax.
Carried Unanimously
7.2. Appointment Request -Elimination of Private -Use Fireworks
(Correspondence from Vlad Gusyev added)
Resident, Vlad Gusyev, addressed Council proposing the idea of eliminating
the private -use of fireworks to enhance public safety.
7.3
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
THAT Council DIRECT staff to come back with a report with an update on the
City's fireworks by-law, including penalties.
Carried Unanimously
Moved up Item #13.3 -Victoria Centre BIA - 2026 Budget Levy
Attached is the Victoria Centre BIA 2026 proposed budget for Council's
approval.
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
THAT Council APPROVE the Victoria Centre BIA's proposed budget for 2026.
Carried Unanimously
7.4 Moved up Item #15.1 on the agenda:
Motion -Submitted by Councillor Mona Patel
Attached is a motion submitted by Councillor Patel pertaining to a Code of
Conduct for Human Trafficking Prevention in Niagara.
Councillor Victor Pietrangelo left Chambers at 5:54 as he declared a conflict of
interest to this item.
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Dave Augustyn, Policy Consultant, Code of Conduct for Human Trafficking
Prevention in Niagara Region, delegated to Council in support of Councillor
Patel's motion.
Mike Britton, of Crime Stoppers of Niagara, provided a presentation to Council
in support of Councillor Patel's motion pertaining to a Code of Conduct for
Human Trafficking Prevention in Niagara.
Moved by Councillor Mona Patel
Seconded by Councillor Lori Lococo
WHEREAS human trafficking is a serious issue affecting communities across
the Niagara Region; and
WHEREAS hotels in Ontario are required to provide human trafficking
awareness training, while short-term rental operators are not currently subject
to the same requirements; and
WHEREAS Niagara Falls is a major tourism destination and has a
responsibility to take proactive steps to prevent human trafficking and protect
vulnerable individuals;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that staff report back to Council on options to
require human trafficking prevention training for all licensed short-term rental
operators, including both owner -occupied and non -owner -occupied
accommodations (including Airbnb operators), as a condition of licensing or
licence renewal within the City; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that staff report back to Council on
implementing human trafficking awareness training for City By-law and Parking
Enforcement staff, delivered in partnership with the Niagara Regional Police
Service and any other relevant agencies, and made available to any City
employee who wishes to participate; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that staff engage with local Business
Improvement Areas (BIAs), including those representing tourism -focused
areas, to promote access to human trafficking awareness training and
prevention resources; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that staff report back to Council on the City of
Niagara Falls becoming a signatory to the Code of Conduct for Human
Trafficking Prevention in Niagara, including the requirements and implications
of participation; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be circulated to
Niagara Region, all Niagara Region municipalities, and the Province of Ontario,
including the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing and the Solicitor
General, for their consideration and information.
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Carried Unanimously (Councillor Pietrangelo declared a conflict of
interest)
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Mona Patel
THAT Council ALLOW Dave Augustyn, Policy Consultant, TOES (Tools of
Empowerment for Success) and Crime Stoppers to delegate to this matter.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Pietrangelo declared a conflict)
8. PLANNING MATTERS
8.1. PBD-2026-14 -Public Meeting
AM-2025-028 — Official Plan Amendment & Zoning By-law Amendment
7525 Garner Road
Owner: Bruno Graovaz
Applicant: Allan Madan (MadanCPA)
Agent: Ethan Cleugh (GSP Group)
The Planning Public meeting commenced at 6:23 PM.
Councillor Chris Dabrowski left Chambers at 6:23 PM and returned at 6:30 PM.
Councillor Victor Pietrangelo returned to Chambers at 6:24 PM (upon
conclusion of Item #7.4, as he had declared a conflict).
Mayor Diodati left the meeting at 6:24 PM and Councillor Pietrangelo resumed
as Chair. Mayor Diodati returned at 6:29 PM and resumed as Chair.
Lesley Laan, of 5525 Reixinger Road, addressed Council supporting the
application, and further brought forth grading issues and suggested
consideration be given to the containment of the garbage. Ms. Laan supports
the enhanced buffer that was part of the application.
Craig Rohe, acting as the agent from GSP Group, supported staffs
recommendation on the report.
Mackenzie Ceci, Senior Planner. -Current Development, provided an overview
of Report PBD-2026-14.
The Planning Public meeting closed at 6:46 PM.
Moved by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
Seconded by Councillor Mona Patel
1. That Council APPROVE the Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-
law Amendment to facilitate the development of three blocks containing
51 stacked townhouse dwelling units, subject to the regulations and
modifications detailed in this Report.
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2. That Council APPROVE the inclusion of a Holding (H) provision in the
amending by-law to require the submission of a letter from the Ministry
of Citizenship and Multiculturalism acknowledging entry of the Stage 1 &
2 Archaeological Assessment into the Ontario Public Register of
Archeological Reports.
3. That Council AUTHORIZE the amending by-law to include a sunset
clause to require the execution of a Site Plan Agreement or the receipt
of Draft Plan of Condominium approval 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
8.2. PBD-2026-12 -Public Meeting
AM-2025-032 Zoning By-law Amendment at 5773 Buchanan Avenue to
permit one (1) Vacation Rental Unit.
The Planning Public meeting commenced at 6:47 PM.
Jessica Abraham, Planner 1, provided an overview of Report PBD-2026-12.
Samantha Beam, acting as the agent from Urban &Environmental
Management, was present to support the application.
The Planning Public meeting closed at 6:55 PM.
Moved by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
Seconded by Councillor Mona Patel
THAT Council APPROVE the Zoning By-law Amendment to permit the use of
the lands for one (1) Vacation Rental Unit (VRU) within the existing duplex,
subject to the regulations outlined in this report.
Carried Unanimously
8.3. PBD-2026-13 -Public Meeting
AM-2025-024, Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment Application for
7800 Lundy's Lane to increase the permitted density and rezone the
subject lands to facilitate the conversion of two existing motels to 71
permanent dwelling units and the construction of a 6-storey apartment
containing 66 units and ground floor commercial space.
The Planning Public meeting commenced at 6:56 PM.
Chris Roome, Planner 2, provided an overview of Report PBD-2026-13.
David Jovanovich, Project Administrator of the Lundy's Lane BIA, addressed
Council supporting the project as he supports enhancement and growth.
However, Mr. Jovanovich brought forth concerns regarding the viability and the
density of the application and reiterated the importance of there being a
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guarantee in place that this project would be constructed as one, ensuring
what was proposed is what is going to be done.
Ethan Laman, Senior Planner at Upper Canada Consultants, addressed
Council supporting the application.
The Planning Public meeting closed at 7:47 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 increase the permitted density, to rezone the subject
lands for the conversion of the two existing motels to 71 permanent
dwelling units, to permit the construction of a 6-storey residential
apartment containing 66 units with 50% of the ground floor being
commercial space, and to provide for a centrally located amenity space
for the residents subject to the regulations detailed in this Report.
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.
Carried Unanimously
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT Council AGREE to move Item #9.4 and Item #15.2 up in the agenda to
be presented after Item #8.3.
Carried Unanimously
9.1. CS-2026-15
Fee Waiver Applications -March 2026 Submissions
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
1. THAT Council approve, approve in part or deny the Fee Waiver
applications received for the March 31, 2026 submission date, listed as
follows:
(a) Knights of Columbus Basketball Free Throw - in the amount of
$212.56, to waive the costs of the facility rental (gymnasium at the
MacBain Centre).
(b) Birchway Book Riot - 2026, Women's Place of South Niagara o/a
Birchway Niagara - in the amount of $11,946.29, to waive the costs
associated with the ice rental at the Gale Centre.
(c) Stamford Centre Volunteer Firefighters Association Annual Easter Egg
Hunt - in the amount of $3,357.00, to waive the costs of staffing and
painting of parking lot (temporary) at Firemen's Park.
(d) First Annual Krampusfest, Cat &Monkey Events/Ronnie Dons Ice
Cream - in the amount of $356.00, to waive the costs of the fees
associated with the road closures and special event permit.
(e) Meeting Room Rental Fee for 2026 - Pathstone Mental Health - in the
amount of $4,675.00 to waive the costs of the facility rental at the MacBain
Community Centre and for drop -in recreation passes.
(f) Meeting Room Rental Fee for 2026 -Big Brothers Big Sisters of Niagara
- in the amount of $9,345.00 to waive the costs of the MacBain Community
Centre meeting room.
(g) Cruising the Q, Heart Niagara - in the amount of $4,983.05 to waive the
fees associated with the road closures.
(h) Coldest Night of the Year, Project Share - in the amount of $226.00 to
waive the fees associated with the special event permit.
(i) Recharge Caregiver Group, Community Palliative Care &Wellness - in
the amount of $2,419.80 to waive the costs of the MacBain Rental Room
Fee.
(j) Falls Manor, 7104 Lundy's Lane, Property renovations, YWCA Niagara
Region - in the amount of $25,470.90, to waive the municipal fees for
permits and applications.
(k) 2026 Victim Services Niagara Police vs. Fire Charity Softball Game,
Victim Services Niagara - in the amount of $115.34, to waive the fees
associated with the hourly rate of the athletic field (Oakes Park) and
lighting.
(I) Streets on Fire Car Show, Chippawa Volunteer Firefighters Association
- in the amount of $282.50 (250.+ HST), to waive the park and parking lot
fees at the Chippawa Lions Park.
Elisabeth Zimmermann, Executive Director, YWCA, addressed Council
supporting the Falls Manor property renovations and the request to cover the
fees as part of the fee waiver report.
CS-2026-14
Carried Unanimously
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Cemetery Software Management Project — Budget Amendment
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
1. THAT Council RECEIVE Staff Report CS-2026-14 Cemetery Software
Management Project — Budget Amendment for information,
2. THAT Council APPROVE a 2026 Capital Budget Amendment in the
amount of $100,000 for the Cemetery Software Project (Capital Project
ID G97-25) to be funded from the OLG Reserve Fund resulting in a total
project budget of $445,000.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Baldinelli was absent from the vote).
9.3. CS-2026-17 -Clerks
Use of Vote Tabulators for 2026 Niagara Falls Municipal Election
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT Council RECEIVE this report for information regarding the use of
tabulators for in person voting during the 2026 Municipal and School Board
Elections.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Baldinelli and Councillor Nieuwesteeg
were absent).
9.4. PBD-2026-15 - (ADDRESSED THIS ITEM PRIOR TO ITEM #9.1)
Interim Control By -Law to limit Motel Conversions on Lundy's Lane
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
THAT Council APPROVE Interim Control By-law 2026-029,attached as
`APPENDIX A', to restrict new motel conversion applications on Lundy's Lane
for a period of one year.
Carried Unanimously
9.5. PBD-2026-17 (TO BE DEFFERED) (Deferral Letter added)
Proposed Telecommunication Tower Facility 2886 Stanley Avenue
Applicant: Fontur International on contract to Signum Wireless
9.6. PBD-2026-18
Recreational Vehicle &Trailer Parking By -Law
Councillor Baldinelli left Chambers at 8:25 PM and returned at 8:30 PM.
Councillor Nieuwesteeg left Chambers at 8:29 PM and returned at 8:34 PM.
Councillor Pietrangelo left Chambers at 8:42 PM and returned at 8:44 PM.
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Direction to Staff: conduct public consultation and come back with options for
greater utilization of trailers and utility in your driveway and come back with
some best practices from other municipalities.
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
THAT Council pass a motion to DEFER Report PBD-2026-18 -Recreational
Vehicle & Trailer Parking By -Law with direction to staff to bring back a report to
Council after getting public consultation.
Carried Unanimously
10. CONSENT AGENDA
10.1. CS-2026-10
Permanently Close and Declare Surplus City Laneway (East of Magdalen
Street, West of Centre Street), File No. 2025-047
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
1. THAT Council AUTHORIZE that the City laneway located east of Magdalen
Street and west of Centre Street (the "Subject Lands") as shown outlined in
pink on Appendix "1" attached hereto, be permanently closed and declared
surplus to the City 's needs.
2. THAT Council AUTHORIZE the Manager of Realty Services to engage in
negotiations with respect to the sale of the Subject Lands in accordance with
the City's Sale of Land By-law.
Carried Unanimously
CS-2026-12 -Finance
Statement of 2025 Remuneration and Expenses for Members
of Council and Committees
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
THAT Council DEFER Report CS-2026-12 -Statement of Council
Remuneration and Expenses for Members of Council and Committees until the
next Council meeting.
Carried Unanimously
CS-2026-16
Shark Tank Update (Supplementary)
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
THAT Council RECEIVE report CS-2026-16 Shark Tank Update
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(Supplementary) for information.
Carried Unanimously
10.4. 1V1W-2026-05
Drinking Water System Summary Report and Overview
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
THAT this report be RECEIVED for information and that the updated
Operational Plan be ENDORSED by Council.
Carried Unanimously
10.5. PBD-2026-16
2025 Development &Housing Monitoring Report —Year in Review
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
THAT Council RECEIVE the Development and Housing Monitoring Report that
reviews the status of development, housing and growth management activity
for the City of Niagara Falls in 2025.
Carried Unanimously
10.6. CS-2026-18 -Clerks
Restricted Act of Council Period
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
THAT Council RECEIVE Report CS-2026-18 (Clerks) for information; and
THAT Council APPROVE By-law 2026-026 in the form attached at Attachment
1.
Carried Unanimously
11. COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMENTS OF THE CITY CLERK
11.1. Proclamation Request -GBS/CIDP Awareness Month - Guillain-Barre
Syndrome/Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy
Attached is a request for Council to proclaim the month of May 2026 as
"GBS/CIDP Awareness Month," to educate the public and to focus attention on
these rare conditions.
Recommendation: THAT Council PROCLAIM the month of May 2026 as
"GBS/CIDP Awareness Month."
Flag -Raising and Proclamation Request -World Autism Awareness Day
Attached is a request for Council to PROCLAIM Thursday, April 2nd, 2026 as
"World Autism Awareness Day" and to arrange for a flag -raising ceremony on
April 2nd, 2026 to recognize the day.
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Recommendation: THAT Council PROCLAIM Thursday, April 2nd, 2026 as
"World Autism Awareness Day" and to arrange for a flag -raising ceremony on
April 2nd, 2026 to recognize the day.
11.3. Proclamation and Lowering of Flag Request - National Day of Mourning
Attached is a request from the Niagara Regional Labour Council, for Council to
PROCLAIM Tuesday, April 28, 2026 as "National Day of Mourning," and for
flags to be flown at Half -Mast on April 28, 2026 at City Hall, to remember those
who have suffered injury and/or died on the job and fight for the living by
demanding action on invisible injuries and hazards.
Recommendation: THAT Council PROCLAIM Tuesday, April 28, 2026 as
"National Day of Mourning," and for flags to be flown at Half -Mast on April 28,
2026 at City Hall, to recognize the day.
Flag -Raising Request - Children's Mental Health Awareness
Attached is a request to City Council to APPROVE aflag-raising ceremony for
the first week of May 2026, to recognize "Children's Mental Health Awareness
Week."
The Children's Mental Health Awareness Week is about increasing awareness
of the signs of child and youth mental health problems, decreasing stigma,
understanding that help is available and "Treatment Works."
Recommendation: THAT Council APPROVE aflag-raising ceremony for the
first week of May 2026, to recognize "Children's Mental Health Awareness
Week."
Flag -Raising Request -Christian Heritage Month
Attached is aflag-raising request for Council to approve aflag-raising
ceremony at City Hall, in recognition of Christian Heritage Month, this year in
December.
Recommendation: THAT Council APPROVE aflag-raising ceremony at City
Hall, in recognition of Christian Heritage Month, this year in December.
Flag -Raising and Illumination of Falls Request -Republic Day of
Azerbaijan
Attached is a request for Council to approve the illumination of Niagara Falls in
the colours of the Azerbaijan flag on Saturday, May 30, 2026 and to approve a
flag -raising ceremony for the Azerbaijan flag at City Hall on Friday, May 29,
2026 in celebration of the May 28 Republic Day of Azerbaijan.
Recommendation: THAT Council APPROVE the illumination of Niagara Falls
in the colours of the Azerbaijan flag on Saturday, May 30, 2026 and to
APPROVE a flag -raising ceremony for the Azerbaijan flag at City Hall on
Friday, May 29, 2026 in celebration of the May 28 Republic Day of Azerbaijan.
Flag -Raising Request -Filipino Flag -Raising Ceremony
Attached is a request from Filipino Canadian Association of Niagara (FCAN) for
a flag -raising ceremony on Friday, June 12, 2026.
Recommendation: THAT Council APPROVE aflag-raising ceremony to raise
the Filipino Flag on Friday, June 12, 2026.
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11.8. Correspondence from the Niagara Region
Attached is a report from the Niagara Region requesting Council to approve the
execution of the Amending Agreement (Amendment 3) to the NRCIMA to
continue the Red Light Camera (RLC) program.
Recommendation: For the Approval of Council.
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
THAT Council APPROVE/SUPPORT Item #11.1 through to and including Item
Carried Unanimously
12. COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMENTS OF THE CITY CLERK
Resolution -Town of Englehart -support of the Association of
Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) to maintain the current OMERS
governance model.
Attached is a copy of the resolution 2026-35 passed by the Council of the
Town of Englehart at regular meeting February 25, 2026 in support of the
Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) to maintain the current OMERS
governance model.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
Correspondence from Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA)
Attached is a notice from NPCA regarding spring flood preparedness
communications.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
Niagara Transit -Quarter 4 Microtransit Statistics &LAM Enhanced
Service Requests Policy
Attached are the Q4 Microtransit Statistics &LAM Enhanced Service Requests
Policy sent from Niagara Transit.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
Resolution -City of Welland -Pilot Program Consideration
Welland City Council passed the following motion on February 10, 2026.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
Resolution -Town of Lincoln -Support for the Regional Motion regarding
Governance Review
Be advised that the Council of the Town of Lincoln, at its meeting on March 9,
2026, passed the following resolution in support of the regional motion
regarding governance review.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
12.6. Correspondence from the Niagara Region
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Attached is correspondence from the Niagara Region relating to the following
matters:
1) Niagara Region Report CLK-C 2026-020 CSD 2-2026 - Approval of 2026
Interim Levy Dates and Amounts
2) Niagara Region Motion Re Correspondence Respecting Municipal
Governance Reform
3) Niagara Region Report CSD 7-2026 Respecting 2026 Property Tax Policy,
Ratios and Rates
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
12.7. Resolution -Town of Lincoln -Request to Extend Deadline of Intention to
Designate Listed Heritage Properties
Attached is a Town of Lincoln resolution passed at the March 23, 2026,
Committee of the Whole meeting, regarding a Request to the Province of
Ontario to Extend the Deadline for Notices of Intention to Designate Listed
Heritage Properties.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
12.8. Niagara Transit Commission -Niagara Transit Fleet Electrification
Strategy and Implementation Roadmap
At its meeting held on February 17, 2026, the Niagara Transit Commission
requested the attached memorandum and presentation be circulated to the
local area municipalities.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
Correspondence from Steven Soos -Mental Health and Addictions
Advisory Committee
Attached is correspondence sent from Steven Soos regarding the support of a
Mental Health and Addictions Advisory committee.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
12.10. Request for Two Day Street Closure -Taste of Manila Niagara Falls
(August 29-30)
Attached is a request to Council to approve road closure for an upcoming
event on August 29-30, 2026, Taste of Manila at Sylvia Place.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for Information.
Moved by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
THAT Council Approve the two day street closure request subject to staff
meeting with the organizers of the event and agreeing to a plan for the two
days.
Carried Unanimously
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Moved by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT Council RECEIVE FOR INFORMATION Item #12.1 through to and
including Item #12.9.
Carried Unanimously
13. COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMENTS OF THE CITY CLERK
13.1. Memo from Planning, Building &Development -City of Niagara Falls Site
Plan Control By-law Update
Attached is a memo from the City's Urban and Landscape Designer which
provides an update to the City's Site Plan Control By-law,
Recommendation: THAT Council PASS By-law No. 2026-027 to repeal and
replace By-law No. 2025-096, thereby updating the City of Niagara Falls Site
Plan Control By-law in accordance with Council's direction.
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
THAT Council PASS By-law No. 2026-027 to repeal and replace By-law No.
2025-096, thereby updating the City of Niagara Falls Site Plan Control By-law
in accordance with Council's direction.
Carried Unanimously
13.2. Noise By-law Exemption Request -Niagara Ribstock 2026
Attached is a request for a Noise By-law Exemption for an upcoming
community event, Niagara Ribstock, 2026, which will be held at Firemen's
Park, 2275 Dorchester Road to allow for the playing of amplified music and live
music performances until 11:00 PM on Friday, June 19, 2026 and Saturday,
June 20, 2026 and until 10:00 PM on Sunday, June 21, 2026.
Recommendation: THAT Council APPROVE a Noise By-law Exemption for
Niagara Ribstock, 2026, held at Firemen's Park, 2275 Dorchester Road to
allow for the playing of amplified music and live music performances until 11:00
PM on Friday, June 19, 2026 and Saturday, June 20, 2026 and until 10:00 PM
on Sunday, June 21, 2026.
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
THAT Council APPROVE a Noise By-law Exemption for Niagara Ribstock,
2026, held at Firemen's Park, 2275 Dorchester Road to allow for the playing of
amplified music and live music performances until 11:00 PM on Friday, June
191 2026 and Saturday, June 20, 2026 and until 10:00 PM on Sunday, June 21,
2026.
Carried Unanimously
13.3. Victoria Centre BIA - 2026 Budget Levy -THIS MATTER WAS
ADDRESSED AS ITEM #7.3 as per motion passed.
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Attached is the Victoria Centre BIA 2026 proposed budget for Council's
approval.
Recommendation: THAT Council APPROVE the Victoria Centre BIA's
proposed budget for 2026.
14. RATIFICATION OF IN -CAMERA
Noting to ratify.
15. MOTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION
15.1. Motion -Submitted by Councillor Mona Patel (THIS MATTER WAS
ADDRESSED AS ITEM #7.4 as per motion passed.
Attached is a motion submitted by Councillor Patel pertaining to a Code of
Conduct for Human Trafficking Prevention in Niagara.
15.2. Motion - Submitted by Councillor Kerrio (Addressed this item prior to
Item #9.1 at 7:54 PM).
Attached is a motion submitted by Councillor Kerrio regarding the request to
revisit the fee structure and process for rural ditching on private property.
Moved by City Councillor Vince Kerrio
Seconded by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
THAT Council DIRECT staff to look at the fee structure pertaining to rural
ditching/draining on private property and a program on how the cleaning of the
ditches/drains will be done and how many residents will be affected, in
particular, to look at the Union Marsh drain.
Carried Unanimously
16. NOTICE OF MOTION
16.1. Notice of Motion -Submitted by Councillor Lococo
Attached is a notice of motion submitted by Councillor Lococo regarding
Council supporting a governance review.
17. NEW BUSINESS
a) Councillor Patel addressed the issue of pot holes within the city.
Erik Nickel, General Manager of Municipal Works, provided the public with an
update as to how the pot holes have been treated thus far and encouraged the
public to use the tools available on our website and social media channels to
report a pot hole.
18. BY-LAWS
2026- A by-law to authorize the use of optical scanning vote tabulators for the
025. purpose of counting votes at the 2026 Municipal Elections.
2026- Being a by-law to delegate specific authority to the Chief Administrative Officer
026. during the Restricted Acts of Council Period.
2026- A by -law to designate the whole of the City of Niagara Falls as a site plan
Page 17 of 18
027. control area, to define the classes of development that may be undertaken
without the approval of plans and drawings, and to delegate the powers or
authority of Council permitted under section 41 of the Planning Act, R. S. O.
1990, c. P. 13 to the General Manager of Planning, Building and Development,
and to repeal By-law No. 2011 -1 12 and By-law No. 2022-049.
2026- A by-law to regulate the parking, storage, and use of trailers and recreational
028. vehicles within the City of Niagara Falls.
2026- An interim control by-law to prohibit motel -to -residential conversion applications
029. along Lundy's Lane within the City of Niagara Falls under Section 38 of the
Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P. 13, as amended (PBD-2026-15).
2026- A by-law to amend By-law No. 89-2000, being a by-law to regulate parking and
030. traffic on City Roads.
2026- A by-law to enter into an agreement with the Ministry of Infrastructure related to
031. the provincial Transfer Payment Agreement for Housing -Enabling Water
Systems Fund: Intake 2 Top -Up.
2026- A by-law to amend By-law 2002-197, the Live Adult Businesses By-law.
032.
2026- A by-law to adopt, ratify and confirm the actions of the City Council at its
033. meeting held on the 31 st day of March, 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, excluding
By-law 2026-028.
a) Adjournment
Moved by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
Seconded by Councillor Mona Patel
THAT Council ADJOURN the meeting at 9:24 PM.
City Clerk
Carried Unanimously
Carried Unanimously
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