News

Chief Administrative Officer announces retirement

Long-term employee and City Chief Administrative Officer Shelley Chemnitz will retire in July 2021.

In 2017, Ms. Chemnitz became the City’s CAO after years of financial, administrative and leadership experience, previously serving as the Commissioner of Corporate Support Services and City Treasurer. “CAO Chemnitz has been an outstanding leader for our City – especially over the past nine months as we managed our way through COVID-19,” said Mayor Walter Sendzik. “She rose to the unprecedented challenges...

City to finish year in better fiscal health with Safe Restart funding

Today’s announcement from the Province of Ontario, providing a total of roughly $2.7 million in funding, will ensure the City finishes the year in good financial health, while providing a buffer for COVID-19 impacts on 2021 operations.

Today the Province announced allocations under the federal-provincial Safe Restart — Phase 2 program. In total $2.05 million was allocated under Phase 2 to St. Catharines, based on the City’s year-end 2020 financial forecasts submitted as part of its application in...

St. Catharines Fire Services igniting holiday safety initiatives

St. Catharines Fire Services are reminding residents to practice fire safety during the holiday season while participating in some fun online public engagement initiatives until Dec. 24.

 “I’m wishing for a fire-free holiday season this year, but I need residents to help make this come true,” said Fire Chief Jeff McCormick. “Typically fires happen when people get preoccupied, distracted, or let their guard down. With the busyness of the holidays, it is very easy to get distracted or...

Sunday fire underscores importance of kitchen fire safety and working alarms

St. Catharines Fire Services is reminding residents to ensure they practice safe cooking practices after a weekend fire saw one resident transported to hospital.

On Sunday, fire crews were called to a fire at a Louth Street home around 4:50 p.m. By the times crews arrived smoke had filled the entirety of the house, including an attached apartment. While the fire was brought under control, the resident of the home was transported to hospital for possible smoke inhalation and a laceration.

Upon further...

Re-designation of Ontario Street property approved

Last night Council approved amendments to the City’s Official Plan, which included the re-designation of industrial land on Ontario Street for residential and mixed-use purposes.

“In the past month, Council has taken significant strides to put in place policies and programs that will transform St. Catharines,” explained Mayor Walter Sendzik. “Council’s decision to change the designation of the former GM lands on Ontario Street from industrial to residential and commercial uses, combined with the recently...