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- Spring 2025 Survey Results | Notl Res. Assoc.
Royal George Position Survey EXECUTIVE SUMMARY by Michael Ennamorato! Executive Summary The Shaw Festival executive wishes to demolish the Royal George Theatre on Queen Street in the heritage district of Niagara-on-the-Lake and replace it with a new, expanded theatre facility at the same location. This initiative has been spurred by consideration that the Royal George, in its current structural form, has reached the end of its useful life. With some funding secured from the provincial government, there is a desire to move relatively quickly to the construction phase and to complete redevelopment of the site within a three-year time frame. Preliminary architectural plans have been made available for public input with the aim of arriving at a widely accepted proposal to put forward for local council approval. The Niagara- on-the-Lake Residents Association (NOTLRA) wishes to engage in this process as an advocate for residents from across the municipality. As a grassroots organization, it is critical that the NOTLRA solicit direction from its members to ensure that its approach to advocacy is consistent with their perspectives, concerns, needs and desires. To this end, The NOTLRA conducted a survey among its members to determine the extent to which they are aligned with the leadership’s proposed advocacy approach vis-a-vis the Royal George rebuild. Results of the survey indicate that members typically have a good understanding of current issues surrounding the Royal George and are, consequently, well placed to provide the NOTLRA with direction on an approach to advocacy on their behalf. With this knowledge-base established, they were presented with the following proposed approach for assessment. The Niagara-on-the-Lake Residents Association supports the Shaw’s initiative to replace the current Royal George Theatre with a new theatre facility at the current location. We are committed to working with the Shaw and other stakeholders to alter aspects of the size and design of the proposed structure in an effort to better protect the unique heritage character of the streetscape and the residential integrity of the surrounding neighbourhood. Members strongly support this position, with 9-in-10 indicating agreement and more than two- thirds doing so in unequivocal terms. Moreover, among the few who express dissent, the prevailing rationale is that the proposed position is not strong enough. Some would rather have the new theatre constructed at another location that might be better suited to the scale and design of the facility outlined in initial plans. Relocating is not feasible for a number of practical reasons. However, dissenters’ underlying concern about compatibility suggests that that they would endorse the NOTLRA advocating for the majority with some forcefulness, insofar as that advocacy strives for a better fit at the current location on Queen Street. Implications On the basis of these survey results, the NOTLRA has a mandate to intervene on behalf of its members in a manner consistent with the proposed positioning statement. This involves taking a collaborative and constructive approach that recognizes the Shaw’s role as an important partner in nurturing NOTL’s long-term health. Nonetheless, in alignment with members’ core concerns, the NOTLRA should not hesitate to adopt an assertive stance in continuing to advocate for changes to the design and scale of a new Royal George at the current location with the aim of preserving the heritage character and the residential integrity of the surrounding neighbourhood. Rational for survey! Official Survey Analysis Unfiltered response to Q2b and Q3 May Survey Results! MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT, STUART MCCORMACK! Niagara-on-the-Lake Residents Association OUR TOWN OUR FUTURE June 2, 2025 Communique We were truly encouraged by the strong turnout at our open house on May 14, 2025. Your presence and engagement demonstrated a clear interest in the future of our community. We’re also pleased that several attendees expressed a willingness to get involved with the Association. We’ll be connecting with these individuals in the coming weeks to explore how their skills and interests might align with various opportunities within the Association. The purpose of the open house was to introduce our organization, share that we are now incorporated, and confirm that we have directors and officers’ liability insurance in place. It also gave attendees a chance to hear directly from members of the Organizing Committee and learn more about our goals. We hope the event helped provide a clearer picture of who we are and what we stand for. Following the open house, the Organizing Committee met on May 29 to review the results of our recent community survey. The survey included 15 multiple-choice questions along with two open-ended ones to allow participants to raise additional issues or elaborate on their views. The areas with the highest levels of concern were, in order: 1. Planning and Development 2. Council Procedures and Activities 3. Strong Mayor Powers These stood out significantly compared to other topics. Responses to the open-ended questions, summarized with assistance from ChatGPT, highlighted several recurring themes: · A desire for greater transparency in local governance · Stronger community representation in decision-making · Preservation of the Town’s heritage and character · More responsible and thoughtful development · Improvements to local infrastructure and amenities Additionally, some comments expressed concern about the direction of local leadership and a desire for change in future elections. As we move forward, we will be focusing our efforts on the priorities reflected in this community feedback. We are also committed to broadening our outreach so that all stakeholder groups in Niagara-on-the-Lake have opportunities to connect with and contribute to the work of the Association. OUR TOWN OUR FUTURE Niagara-on-the-Lake Residents Association Official Survey Results Official Survey Analysis Ron Simkus survey anylysis!
- 2025 AGM | Notl Res. Assoc.
NOTLRA Annual General Meeting (AGM) Wednesday October 22, 6:00 pm! 2025 Annual General meeting recap! Mike Balsom Photo Thank you to all members who attended our first AGM on October 22, 2025! President and Chair of the NOTLRA, Stuart McCormack presided over the meeting which had an attendance well over 100. The Chair took members through the agenda and declared the seven candidates who put their names forward to act as Directors of the association elocted until our next AGM sometime next October. The following members have been elected by acclamation since only seven positions were available and seven candidates applied. The board is made up of the following individuals: * Stuart McCormack returning Board member - Old Town * Ron Simkus returning Board member - Old Town * Norm Arsenault returning Board member - representing Virgil and rural area * Steve Hardaker returning Board member - Glendale * Bette Ann James - new Board member - Old Town * Peter Neame - new Board member - Old Town * Andrea Leja - new Board member representing Queenston and St Davids Following the election of the new Board of Directors, the Chair took members through a series of presentations on various issues that the NOTLRA has been working on since last Spring. A recap of these presentations is attached below for your information. You may wish to familiarize yourself with the new Directors by following the link below. Once Directors have their first meeting, various positions will be assigned and the ABOUT US page will be updated accordingly. The Board will be reaching out to members in the near future to select and appoint members to new Officers positions. It is anticipated that Officers will lead the various issues as assigned by the Board. More to come on this subject. We look forward to the upcoming year and the various challenges that we will encounter including the upcoming municipal election in October of 2026. MEET YOUR NEW BOARD Director duties Recap of Presentations. NOTLRA Bylaw1
- About | Notl Res. Assoc.
Who we are! The establishment and operation of a residents association by and for the residents of Niagara-on-the-Lake for the purposes of: a) creating and expressing a long term vision for the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake and work diligently to achieve it by active involvement in local and regional municipal affairs; b) working with other residents associations and groups in Niagara-on-the-Lake; c) Advocate for residents views and expectations with Town and Regional Councils and where appropriate ,higher levels of government d) And such other complimentary purposes that are not inconsistent with these purposes Home / About / Meet our Directors Stuart McCormack President/Chair Steve Hardaker Vice-Chair Ron Simkus Administrator Governance Bylaw 1 Privacy Policy Conflict of Interest Policy Norm Arsenault Treasurer Andrea Leja Secretary Peter Neame Director At Large Members code of conduct! Volunteer Management Policy Duties of Secretary Duties of Treasurer Bette Ann James Director At Large
- Join Us | Notl Res. Assoc.
Home / Get involved / Join Us / Become a part of our expanding membership and gain access to the latest events, news updates, and more! Lend your voice to Niagara-on-Lake’s unique association that unites residents from all parts of our town and rural areas to advocate collectively on the issues that matter most to you Join our Membership! * First name * Last name * Email * Phone * Address Line 1 Add PO box if applicable * Town * Province * Postal code How did you hear about us? * What area of NOTL are you from Check here if you wish to volunteer Submit
- Contact Us | Notl Res. Assoc.
Home / Get involved / Contact Us / Send us a message and we’ll get back to you shortly. First name Email* Subject Write a message Send
- Old Donate | Notl Res. Assoc.
Home / Old Donate / The NOTL Residents Association is a non-profit community organization that relies on the generosity of our members to cover our ongoing costs. All donations are gratefully acknowledged. Please note that we are not a charitable organization. Donations are NOT tax deductible. Please follow the instructions below. We accept e-transfers made out to notlra2025@gmail.com . E-transfers will be deposited automatically. Click on the icon below that corresponds with your banking institution and proceed to process your e-transfer. WE will also accept cheques made out and mailed to the following: NOTLRA, 3 Tuscany Court, Niagara-on-the-Lake, On, L0S 1J0. CIBC Tangerine Simplii Meridian Cu
- Queenston | Notl Res. Assoc.
Home / Queenston / QUEENSTON Village of Queenston
- Agriculture | Notl Res. Assoc.
Province commits to irrigation infrastructure upgrades to 'do more' with dwindling water supply! The Niagara Irrigation Initiative Project Steering Committee announced that up to $1.8 million in total funding has been secured to advance the Niagara Irrigation Initiative Project. Read more
- Committees | Notl Res. Assoc.
Members Engagement! Home / Get involved / Committees / COMMITTEES OF NOTLRA! Jan 25 - Cmte Structure Jan 21, Cmtee Roll Out Mtg! Apply for Cmtee Position Candidates FAQ's Planning, Development & Land Use Committee Planning, Development & Land Use Committee Helping shape how Niagara-on-the-Lake grows This committee focuses on how planning and development decisions affect residents and the long-term character of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Members review community-wide planning issues such as growth management, housing, heritage protection, and significant development proposals, and help identify where resident perspectives should be thoughtfully brought forward. Why this matters Planning decisions shape neighbourhoods, infrastructure, and quality of life for decades. This committee supports balanced, informed dialogue about how the town evolves. Helpful perspectives include Interest or experience in planning, housing, architecture, heritage, sustainability, or community development. Professional expertise is welcome but not required. What this committee is not It is not a forum for individual development disputes or appeals. The focus is on broader community considerations and forward-looking solutions. Members * Peter Neame Board Liaison * Gordon Stratford * Lidija Biro, Chair * Vince Peca * David Jones * Brian Marshall * Vacant * Steven Gregg Environment, Climate Resilience & Infrastructure, Committee Environment, Climate Resilience & Infrastructure committee focusing on systems that support daily life and future resilience This committee looks at infrastructure and environmental systems that affect safety, mobility, and long-term resilience, including stormwater and flooding, transportation, climate impacts, and major capital projects. Members help identify patterns, risks, and priorities, and support evidence-informed advocacy related to infrastructure planning and environmental resilience. Why this matters Infrastructure decisions directly affect safety, property impacts, mobility, and municipal costs. Proactive planning helps reduce risk and build long-term resilience. Helpful perspectives include Interest or experience in infrastructure, environment, climate adaptation, transportation, or public works, as well as lived experience with local infrastructure challenges. What this committee is not It does not manage projects or replace technical staff. Its role is advisory and community- focused. Members * Steve Hardaker Board Liaison * Vacant * Phil Bergen, Secretary * Richard Connelly * Kate Sullivan * Chris Earl * Kip Voege * Dr. Rod Tennyson Members Community Services, Quality of Life & Tourism Management Committee Community Services, Quality of Life & Tourism Committee Supporting livability, balance, and resident well-being This committee focuses on everyday life in Niagara-on-the-Lake, including community services, accessibility, recreation, seniors’ supports, and the impacts of tourism and events on neighbourhoods. Members help surface trends and priorities, explore service gaps, and consider constructive ways to balance community well-being and economic activity. Why this matters Quality of life depends on how services, amenities, and tourism are managed for residents year-round. Helpful perspectives include Interest in community well-being, accessibility, recreation, seniors’ services, cultural life, or tourism impacts. Diverse lived experiences are valued. What this committee is not It is not a complaint-resolution body or a forum for individual issues. The focus is on community-wide improvement and feasible solutions. * Andrea Leja Board Liaison * Brenda Tipper * Kim Friesen * Suzanne Hebert * Debi Pratt * Michael Ennamorato * Teri Andrusiw * vacant Governance, Finance & Civic Engagement Committee Governance, Finance & Civic Engagement Committee Strengthening accountability, transparency, and participation This committee focuses on governance practices, municipal finances, and civic engagement, including budget processes, accountability tools, and public participation in local democracy. Members support informed discussion around governance and financial stewardship and explore ways to strengthen transparency and civic involvement. Why this matters Strong governance and sound financial practices help build trust, fairness, and long-term sustainability in local decision-making. Helpful perspectives include Interest or experience in governance, finance, public policy, ethics, or civic engagement. Analytical thinking and sound judgment are helpful. What this committee is not It does not audit the Town or replace elected officials. Its role is advisory and focused on best practices. Members * Stuart McCormack Board Liaison * Bob Bader * Steve McGuinness (on Leave OA) * Alan Young, Chair * Tony Varga * Terry Davis * Lauren Davidson * Caroline Polgrabia
- Master & Strategic Plans | Notl Res. Assoc.
<<<BACK Town Strategic Plan Sept 23, 2025 Strategic plan update! FD Master Plan 2021 Irrigation Master Plan 2021-2025 Strategic Plan <<<Back Dock Area Masterplan Dock Area masterplan update!
- Home | Notl Res. Assoc.
Photo by Rene Bertschi Become a member! $$$ Donate Now! GET INVOLVED! Mission and Vision Welcome to the Niagara-on-the-Lake Residents Association. Connnecting Residents. Shaping Our Future. We're a community of neighbours working together to keep Niagara-on-the-Lake vibrant, and welcoming. Whether it's sharing ideas, staying informed, or speaking up on local issues, we're here to make sure your voice matters. Here is what we are currently focused on! Our Positions Our Committees Amalgamation Information! STAY INF0RMED! Local News Outlets April 23, 2026 Bill 100, Better Regional Governance Act, 2026 View News Releases April 2, 2026 Niagara's Mayors Welcome Provincial Action on Regional Council Reform Local Events March 30, 2026 Niagara Governance Review isn't over!
- Join US (Item) | Notl Res. Assoc.
Become a part of our expanding membership and gain access to the latest events, news updates, and more! Lend your voice to Niagara-on-Lake’s unique association that unites residents from all parts of our town and rural areas to advocate collectively on the issues that matter most to you Email Phone First name Last name Street Address PO Box If applicable City Province Postal code Indicate what area of town you live in (Old town. Virgil, St Davids, Queenston, Glendale, or Rural) Do you wish to volunteer? Yes. Let me know how I can help! Privacy Policy Sign Up Thank You for Joining NOTLRA! Have a question or suggestion? Reach out! Social Media notlra2025@gmail.com First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thanks for submitting!

