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.
“This is the first council term where women make up half of the table — and that representation matters,” said Coun. Maria Mavridis. “It brings different perspectives and experiences to the decision-making process.”
Mavridis, who called serving as a NOTL councillor “both an honour and a responsibility,” said women bring different experiences and viewpoints to town conversations.
“What stands out to me most is the dedication of the women working across our town — from council to staff,” she said.
Day to day, Mavridis said there are “incredibly capable women behind the scenes” who plan projects, support residents and keep the town “running smoothly.”
“Their professionalism and commitment are a big part of what makes our community so strong,” she said.
Coun. Adriana Vizzari said women contribute across the town in many ways and that they “play a vital role in keeping Niagara-on-the-Lake running every day.”
“I’m proud to serve as one of four women on council,” said Vizzari. “Representation matters.”
She said from front-line staff to leadership, women help support the “strong, vibrant community residents enjoy” and should have a voice in shaping the town’s future.
Coun. Sandra O’Connor said women help bring attention to community priorities such as health care, youth programs and child care, pointing to her work helping bring a nurse practitioner to town for residents without a family doctor.
“It’s a very important role to have women on council,” said O’Connor. “The more diversity in perspectives, the better decisions that we can make.”
She said she appreciates having “so many women in leadership roles” at the town and highlighted women working on front lines.
“That is important as well,” O’Connor said, “to have women involved in keeping our town running.”
For Coun. Wendy Cheropita, International Women’s Day is a moment to recognize the progress women have made — and the confidence of younger generations coming up behind them.
“I’ve seen the earlier days, where, you know, women didn’t quite have the same level of freedom,” she said.
“So it’s wonderful to see the newest generation and the absolute confidence — and their attitude that they can accomplish anything,” said Cheropita.
“I think that’s really, really beautiful.”
Cheropita said that in her eight years on council she has seen a collaborative and inclusive environment at town hall, adding that she does not see women being held back.
“It’s always been a very inclusive environment, as long as I’ve been working in the town,” she said.
“There’s really a wonderful level of collaboration and respect.”
