Back to SearchA message from City of St. Catharines Chief Administrative Officer David Oakes:
As we wrap up 2025, I’m delighted to extend heartfelt thanks to all residents, businesses, volunteers, and partners across St. Catharines. Your enthusiasm, feedback, and active involvement have truly propelled STC forward and made this year one to remember!
This year, we made exciting strides in housing with the launch of the Housing Accelerator Fund, new incentives for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), expanded support for purpose-built rentals, and a downtown loan program that’s breathing new life into underused spaces.
We celebrated a decade of major downtown investments — the Meridian Centre and FirstOntario Performing Arts
Centre — and welcomed two dynamic sports teams: the Niagara Ironbacks (collegiate baseball) and the St. Catharines Saints (Senior AAA hockey). We also extend our congratulations to the Niagara River Lions on securing their second consecutive Canadian Elite Basketball League championship, becoming only the second team to win back-to-back titles.
Our commitment to the arts shone brightly, with $360,500 in SCCIP funding supporting 30 local organizations. Sunset Beach renovations are underway, our Waterfront Access and Active Transportation initiatives are gaining momentum, and we’re leading the charge in Next-Generation 9-1-1 services. We’ve also strengthened our foundation with the 2025 Asset Management Plan and ongoing Strategic Plan reporting.
Looking ahead to 2026, we’re keeping the momentum going! Expect new customer excellence initiatives to make City services simpler and faster, the rollout of the Asset Resource Management System for clearer neighbourhood updates, and the grand reopening of Sunset Beach just in time for summer. We’ll continue to enhance active mobility and celebrate the 150th anniversary of St. Catharines’ incorporation with citywide festivities and lasting projects that honour our history and embrace future growth.
Wishing everyone a joyful holiday season and an inspiring start to 2026 — let’s make it a year filled with progress, celebration, and plenty of smiles!
David Oakes
Chief Administrative Officer, City of St. Catharines
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