Council Meeting - February 9, 2026

City Council Meeting – February 9, 2026

• The meeting opened with an Indigenous land acknowledgment and proceeded to approve the agenda unanimously. Key discussions focused on GO Train service issues, regional budget and tax efficiency, and ongoing engagement by the Regional Chair with Grimsby, with follow-up actions to monitor transit improvements and fiscal efficiencies.

Five Most Important Topics

1) Acknowledgment of Indigenous Lands - The session began with recognition of treaty lands tied to Hadawendaronk, Hodenausonee, Anishinaabe, and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, underscoring the importance of Indigenous stewardship and ongoing regional relationships.

2) Approval of the Agenda - The agenda was approved unanimously after being moved by Councillor DeFlavio and seconded by Councillor Sharwa, allowing the meeting to proceed as planned.

3) GO Train Service Issues - Regional Chair Bob Gale highlighted ongoing concerns about GO train service to Niagara, particularly late arrivals. Quote: "We want earlier trains. It gets there 11:30 in the morning. You want to come down here for a Saturday, you're not coming at 11:30 in the morning and then hopping on the next train coming back." This affects both residents and visitors due to scheduling gaps and related congestion.

4) Regional Budget and Tax Efficiency - Chair Gale noted a media release about the Grimsby budget and his task of finding efficiencies to address high taxes. Quote: "I was tasked with finding more efficiencies cuz I know our taxes are too high." This topic is central to residents concerned about the financial burden of local taxes.

5) Regional Chair's Engagement with Grimsby - Gale emphasized his commitment to Grimsby, noting he has visited Grimsby more than any other area and that he cares about its issues. Quote: "I have been to Grimsby more than anywhere else... I certainly have seen more of Grimsby than other places and I care that way." This reflects ongoing regional focus and openness to local concerns.

File Numbers / Bylaws Discussed

• No specific file numbers or bylaw numbers were mentioned in this section.

Opportunities for Public Input

• No explicit opportunities for public consultation were listed in this portion of the transcript. However, the GO train service and tax-efficiency topics are identified as areas where residents may provide feedback in future discussions or consultations.

Motions and Outcomes

• Motion: Approval of the February 9th, 2026 Council Meeting Agenda
  • Outcome: Passed unanimously
  • Next Steps: Proceed with the meeting as per the approved agenda

Councillors Present

• Mayor Jordan
• Councillor DeFlavio
• Councillor Sharwa

(Note: Regional Chair Bob Gale and Michelle Seaborn were present in this section for context, but the request is to list the councillors present.)