Experience That Delivers
One of the greatest strengths of our current Council has been the diversity of experience around the table. With backgrounds in farming, education, policing, engineering, finance, emergency services, and agriculture, we have worked together through respectful debate and practical decision-making to serve the residents of Pelham.
While we haven't always agreed on every issue, we have worked together with one goal in mind—doing what's best for the residents of Pelham. Strong representation and leadership comes from listening, respecting different viewpoints, and finding practical solutions.
I also believe that good governance means encouraging the next generation of community leaders. Welcoming new voices and fresh ideas, while benefiting from experienced leadership, helps build a stronger future for our community.
Over the past four years, I have been proud to serve as your Ward 1 Councillor, representing residents on Council, the Agriculture Advisory Committee, the Niagara Peninsula Energy Inc. Board of Directors, the PenWest Energy Board of Directors, and the Niagara Central Dorothy Rungeling Airport Commission. These roles have given me valuable experience in municipal governance, financial oversight, infrastructure, and regional partnerships.
With your support, I look forward to continuing to be a strong voice for Ward 1 and working to keep Pelham financially responsible, responsive to residents, and a great place to live, work, and raise a family.
Delivering Results for Pelham
Results at a Glance
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90% reduction in Town debt since 2018
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$512,000 rebate secured for MCC solar project
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Blue Jays Foundation grant secured for Centennial Park
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10 local veterans recognized in Fenwick through the Legion Branch 613 Veterans Banner Program by 2026
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40 km/h urban speed limits implemented across Pelham
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New Fire Hall and pool restoration underway
Responsible Financial Stewardship
Good government means budgeting and investing wisely. It means accessing grants and rebates to leverage and enhance local budget commitments.
An example is the solar panels being installed at the Meridian Community Centre through a project supported by a $512,000 rebate. The installation is expected to pay for itself in approximately seven years while significantly reducing electricity costs for decades afterward, helping protect all Pelham taxpayers from rising energy prices to operate the MCC.
The current Council, by continuing the previous Councils work, has reduced Pelham's debt by almost 90% since 2018 .
Investing in Our Parks and Recreation in Ward 1
Our parks and recreation facilities are important gathering places for families and community organizations.
Recent investments include:
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Support for Pelham Minor Baseball in securing a Blue Jays Foundation grant.
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Expansion of the Fenwick Lions Club Food Booth and new washroom facilities at Centennial Park.
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Additional municipal funding for North Pelham Park and Centennial Park improvements. At Centennial Park this includes new LED field lighting, new benches, and field enhancements that will benefit players and spectators for years to come.
Honouring Those Who Served
As an Associate member of Branch 613 (Fonthill) Royal Canadian Legion for 48 years, one project that has been especially meaningful to me was working with Branch 613 to bring the Veterans Banner Program to Fenwick.
In Fenwick four local veterans were honoured in 2025, with six additional veterans to be recognized in 2026.
Council also installed two "Lest We Forget" commemorative crosswalks at the Meridian Community Centre and in front of the Fonthill Library, providing lasting reminders of the sacrifices made by our veterans.
Improving Road and Pedestrian Safety
Keeping residents safe remains a priority.
Continuing the advocacy of the late Councillor Marianne Stewart, pedestrian crossing lights were installed on Canboro Road at both Wellington Heights Public School and St. Ann Catholic Elementary School in 2025. By choosing solar-powered technology, we were able to install two pedestrian crossings for less than the original budget for a single conventional installation.
Council has also:
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Reduced urban speed limits throughout Pelham to 40 km/h.
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Implemented additional traffic-calming measures, including speed humps and enhanced pedestrian crossings.
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Continued investing in safer roads for pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and families.
Planning for the Future
Council continues to make investments that will serve our growing community for many years.
Grant funding was secured for the reconstruction of the swimming pool and surrounding improvements at Marlene Stewart Streit Park, with construction beginning in 2026.
Construction is also underway on the new Station One Fire Hall in Fonthill, providing modern emergency services to meet the needs of our growing community, with completion expected in early 2027.
Building a Stronger Pelham
These accomplishments represent more than completed projects—they demonstrate a commitment to responsible financial management, community partnerships, public safety, recreation, and preserving what makes Pelham a great place to live.
There is still more work to do, and I remain committed to listening to residents, making thoughtful decisions, and ensuring every tax dollar is invested wisely for the benefit of our community.
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Dr. E.L. Crossley and F/O E.A. Ker, DFC at 1942 Fenwick Citizens Parade. Personal photo.
Photo taken in Nova Scotia. Personal archives.
