A Niagara-on-the-Lake subdivision proposal council had already rejected is back — and now approved — in a reversal that’s raising questions about cost, control and heritage protections.
The town is studying a project to add 150 parking spaces to the spot, which could bring in up to $1.9 million a year, instead of opening the land to outside ideas — for now.
A Divisional Court panel has dismissed a legal challenge against Niagara-on-the-Lake’s handling of the Royal George Theatre project, finding the town’s process was thorough and justified.
The town clarified existing rules that prohibit candidates from using municipal facilities and resources during the campaign period, making it clear that includes events organized by community groups, such as candidate debates.
The development, located north of Chestnut Avenue and south of Warner Road, would include 20 single-detached homes, 24 on-street townhouses and a block reserved for future development.
Staff said regional wastewater charges are expected to jump by 21 per cent or $1 million primarily because of “necessary inflationary pressures and capital costs required to ensure the health, safety and reliability of the systems.”
A court decision on whether Niagara-on-the-Lake’s approval of the Royal George Theatre teardown will stand is now a race against time — with demolition possible next week if judges don’t rule first.
Chewy, 2% and Houston may be small, but they’ll be making a big impression when the trio of therapy ponies trot into a Niagara-on-the-Lake fundraiser later this month in support of a local horse rescue.
Niagara-on-the-Lake travellers will soon be able to start an Air Canada trip from their local airport — but instead of boarding a plane, the journey will begin on a bus.
A Queenston resident says bright outdoor lights from neighbouring homes are spilling into her yard and making it hard to enjoy her property at night.
“Niagara-on-the-Lake has a bedrock of community strength — developed by many women dedicated to its natural beauty, heritage and culture,” said Janice Thomson.
For the first time, women make up half of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s council table — a milestone the town’s four female councillors say is helping bring broader perspectives to decision-making at town hall.
The town’s 100+ Women Who Care NOTL held its first meeting last October and has raised $33,900 in its first two meetings. A third meeting is planned for next month.
“As a woman and a mom of three, I believe I have a natural ability to nurture, support and encourage others,” said Montanaro, the supervisor of enforcement for the town.
A proposed five-storey development in Virgil is raising pointed questions from councillors and nearby residents, who warn the project could set a troubling precedent.
One resident argued the plan removes permanent protection for the land and could open the door to more development in the future, which he argued is not a minor change.
The Town of NOTL took a stance against forcibly merging NOTL with other cities and towns in Niagara and argued that the municipality is in good place and can stand on its own.
The Shaw’s lawyers warned the matter is urgent and any further delays could “seriously impact in a negative manner on the project’s funding.”
Niagara Regional Chair Bob Gale is not backing down from his push to rethink how Niagara is governed — even after councillors voted to rein in his amalgamation efforts and launch their own review process.
Councillors pressed Niagara Region’s chair on the financial case behind the proposal to merge Niagara’s municipalities. “You want to see the end of Niagara-on-the-Lake,” said Coun. Erwin Wiens.
Konzelmann’s president says no outdoor events have been booked, scheduled or planned and none will be hosted or marketed unless the winery gets approval.
Conflicting accounts are re-emerging at the Niagara Regional Native Centre, where current leadership is pushing back against allegations of intimidation and mismanagement.
The site alteration policy shifts approval authority to the director of public works and infrastructure and expands enforcement tools.
The judge issued a permanent injunction restraining Konzelmann from conducting or permitting “any use not permitted” by the zoning bylaw, including any outdoor events.
This expansion changes the boundaries of the area that defines the historic quality of Old Town, adding new homes and buildings to the district.
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