Dear editor:

Emotions run high during this election cycle and recent letters in The Lake Report call for change, leaders who can control development, a reduction in commercialization and leadership that embraces opportunity. All fair points depending on one’s perspective — and all missing the most important point, namely the greatest existential threat to Niagara-on-the-Lake in electoral history, the very real threat of amalgamation.

If amalgamated, all other concerns are moot because the forces that want to consume our unique character and resources will have control and Niagara Falls and its municipal allies will outvote us at every turn on the region.

We will have no voice. We will be the poor neighbours in the conglomerate of the Niagara Region. This is the most important single item for consideration when deciding who the next mayor shall be.

To fight amalgamation we need a mayor that is experienced in dealing with all levels of government and their bureaucratic administrations. A mayor that has cultivated these governmental relationships, is strong and will face up to the region, the Province and the federal government.

We must elect a mayor who will bring their own style of leadership, building on what the current council has achieved, protect our beloved town from amalgamation and position us for the future. That mayor is Erwin Wiens.

Vote wisely.

Peter Warrack
NOTL