While the rules around how estate wineries versus farm wineries are allowed to operate are clearly spelled out in bylaws, some wine producers don't seem to be following them, and the town's enforcement of those bylaws has been called into question by competing wineries.
A major concern of consultant Robin Garett's was the removal of the term “wine country” from the tourism vision statement. Some edits also removed the theme of collaboration from the original strategy, Garrett said.
All four major parties in Niagara-on-the-Lake's riding have announced their candidates for the snap federal election on April 28. Lifelong Niagara-on-the-Lake resident Andrea Kaiser is the face of the Liberal Party for the riding, facing off against incumbent Conservative Tony Baldinelli.
Key factors for seniors considering a change were easy access to health care, a range of services and amenities, staying in the community and maintaining social relationships.
The confidence small businesses have in Canadian agriculture took a nosedive in March to the lowest level ever recorded by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business — below the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2008 financial crisis lows.
The new public education team at NOTL Fire & Emergency Services wants to normalize proactive safety concerns and ensure people feel comfortable with their firefighters: ""If people see us during emergencies, it's already a bad day. We want to meet them here, answer questions and prevent crises," said Todd Foley.
Bikes For Farmworkers is running out of bikes — fast. With fewer than 60 left, it urgently needs adult bike donations to help migrant farmworkers get around Niagara-on-the-Lake this spring and summer.
The town’s only high school closed in 2010 after 53 years due to declining enrollment. “Communities of our size should have schools,” said the lord mayor. “Not only that, we’ve grown since that time and we’re continuing to grow.”
Property taxes are expected to go up by 7.92 per cent for the average homeowner in NOTL — the final numbers of this year's budget will be presented at a meeting March 18 and rubber-stamped into bylaw.
Niagara-on-the-Lake embraced the luck of the Irish this week as local hotspots hosted packed St. Patrick’s Day events. The Sandtrap Pub & Grill's co-owner Paul Dietsch called it “one of the busiest single-day events” of the year.
In 2023, 532 businesses in Niagara exported $5.9 billion worth of goods to the U.S. — which makes up 72 per cent of total exports from Niagara businesses.
"This file has significant environmental considerations,” said Coun. Sandra O’Connor, listing her concerns around amphibian habitats, woodland impact, watercourse erosion, negative mitigation, stormwater management and more.
Cindy Grant of the Seniors Housing Options Group will update residents on the findings from the survey's group about aging in place at the next Live & Learn session on March 24.
Niagara-on-the-Lake’s historic charm and scenic views attract film and television productions, but disorganized regulations and permit hurdles drive companies elsewhere, says location scout and production manager Peter Donato.
A new website and Facebook group looking it make it easier for locals and tourists to find farm stands across Niagara-on-the-Lake is taking off online this spring, as the national "shop local" movement continues to gain momentum.
NDP Wayne Gates was sworn into office on March 17, along with members of Provincial Parliament from across Ontario. He was the top vote-getter at four of NOTL's six polling stations, with some of his biggest support coming from voters at the NOTL community centre.
Often called a "Blood Moon" due to the deep reddish hue the Moon takes on during totality, this celestial event was captured by local photographer Dave Van de Laar — from the unique vantage point of his own driveway.
Carter Simpson is bringing home some well-earned bling from the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Italy, winning two bronze medals in two alpine skiing events on Thursday and Saturday.
“Every single day, I get reminded about how good people are,” said Steffanie Bjorgan, who started Red Roof Retreat 25 years ago to service children and young adults with special needs in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Secord helped set the stage for Confederation and establish context for the accomplishments of Canadian women today, says Caroline McCormick: “What she represents is courage and determination, fortitude and perseverance, going the extra mile for what is important.”
Fire Chief Jay Plato confirmed 134 tickets issued between 5 a.m. and noon on Feb. 15 were voided and all associated penalties were cancelled. The lord mayor said no bylaw changes are planned, calling the incident a “learning experience” for staff.
“Some kids don't have access to vaccination because of different situations — they may be allergic. But having parents choose not to vaccinate their kids, that’s another story," said one Crossroads parent.
With $120 million worth of fruit being sold out of the agricultural co-op every year, space is getting tight, its bosses say — and they need at least half an acre more in storage.
In the face of rising mistreatment against women, Canadian women should be empowered to use their voices and take action, says Sandra Hardy: “It’s important to use our voice and speak up and not just keep all the things inside you.”
Burns said a long-term, community-driven approach to climate action is crucial. She helped organize an invasive species workshop last month and plans to represent the town at an Earth Day gathering on April 22 at the community centre: "Collaboration is really the key to change."
