At least one-third of the municipalities in Niagara are set to have new mayors this autumn, as four out of the 12 regions will witness their current mayors choosing not to seek re-election. This change will bring new leadership to the councils in Welland, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Thorold, and Lincoln.
The incoming mayors will also serve on the regional council, a tradition dating back to the establishment of regional government in 1970. However, the workload for these mayors will increase significantly due to the province’s decision to reduce the regional council from 32 members to just the 12 mayors and a provincially-appointed regional chair.
In Thorold, Mayor Terry Ugulini has decided not to run for re-election after serving eight years in office. He highlighted the importance of maintaining service delivery efficiencies and cost savings amidst the city’s growth and expanding tax base.
In Lincoln, Mayor Sandra Easton is stepping down after 12 years in office, creating an opportunity for two town councillors, Adam Russell and Greg Reimer, as well as Cheryl Keddy-Scott, to vie for the mayor’s position.
Niagara-on-the-Lake is also witnessing a change in leadership, with Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa opting not to seek re-election. Candidates like Erwin Wiens, Vaughn Goettler, and Andrea Kaiser are stepping up, each emphasizing different priorities for the town’s future.
In Welland, the race for the mayor’s seat is heating up, with eight candidates, including Natashia Bergen, Pat Chiocchio, David Clow, Gary Graziani, April Jeffs, David McLeod, Brandon Simon, and Graham Speck, competing for the position. Each candidate brings a unique set of skills and visions for the city’s future.
As the municipal elections approach, the residents of Niagara can expect significant changes in leadership across the region, ushering in a new era of governance and decision-making.