Council endorses Recreation Facilities and Programming Plan
City Council endorsed a new 10-year roadmap for recreation facilities, infrastructure and programming in St. Catharines.
Developed through extensive community engagement, the Recreation Facilities and Programming Plan identifies significant investment needs to address aging assets, population growth, and evolving community expectations.
While general in terms of its nature, there were 41 recommendations representing what would be more than $127 million in improvements / investments in everything from potential new aquatics amenities to gymnasiums, arenas and more.
The recommendations will be brought forward through upcoming and future budget processes to balance timing of investments with other City priorities and taxpayer affordability. A list of the 41 recommendations are summarized in the plan, which can be found attached to the staff report Council considered.
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Carlos Garcia Park agreement
Council authorized a License Agreement with the Port Dalhousie Conservancy to facilitate the beautification of Carlos Garcia Park. The next phase of the project would allow private contractors, volunteers, and City staff to complete work on the site to bring the design to fruition.
Older Adult Centre Future Programming
Council received presentations from the St. Catharines Older Adult Committee regarding the draft St. Catharines Older Adult Plan 2026 - 2030: A City for All Ages. Recommendations were referred to staff for consideration in the development and implementation of City programs, services, and work plans.
Council refers amendment to zoning by-law for 263 Pelham Rd. back to staff for further consideration
The report was referred back to staff to work with the applicant to further consider a design that has the driveway access from Pelham Road instead of Trent Court. A Public Meeting to consider the report will be held at a later date. Check the City’s Public Notices webpage for updates.
Safe Drinking Water for Indigenous Communities
City Council has called upon the Government of Canada to accelerate efforts, funding, and infrastructure investments necessary to eliminate all remaining long-term boil water advisories in Indigenous communities across Canada. Council requested that this resolution be circulated to the Prime Minister.
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Niagara Symphony Orchestra Line of Credit Extension Request
Council approved that the Line of Credit (LOC) Guarantee for the Niagara Symphony Orchestra (NSO) at a level of $120,000 be extended until July 31, 2029. Established in 1948 as the St. Catharines Civic Orchestra, the organization has grown from a small community ensemble into a fully professional orchestra of over 50 musicians. The NSO Is dedicated to enriching quality of life in Niagara through diverse programming and educational initiatives.
Request for Federation of Canadian Municipalities to Develop an Anniversary Tree Planting Program
City Council requested that the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) consider developing a program to fund tree planting initiatives that recognize significant milestone anniversaries for Canadian municipalities. Council requested that this resolution be sent to local area municipalities and FCM.
Honorary Street Naming
Council approved the proposed honorary street name, Copernicus Way, for a portion of Facer Street. Nicolaus Copernicus introduced the heliocentric model, which fundamentally changed humanity’s understanding of the universe and laid the groundwork for modern astronomy. Honouring Copernicus through a street name acknowledges his importance to the Polish-Canadian community in St. Catharines while also reflecting the City’s commitment to multiculturalism, inclusion, and celebrating figures of global historical significance.
| | Spotlight on St. Catharines |
Reminder - Look out for the Spotted Lanternfly
The spotted lanternfly is an invasive species that can feed on more than 100 species of trees and plants and poses a significant threat to the grape, tree fruit, wine and ornamental nursery industries.
If you see a spotted lanternfly in St. Catharines, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency is asking that you act quickly:
- Take a photo or video: Get clear images to help confirm the ID
- Capture or kill it: Try to catch the insect or scrape off egg masses. Put it in a sealed container or bag (with alcohol or vinegar to kill it).
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Report it immediately: Report the sighting to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Include details such as location, date, and what plant or object it was on.
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St. Catharines Splash Pads Now Open
The City of St. Catharines operates five splash pads from late May to September.
Catherine Street Park, Pearson Park, Secord Woods, Bogart Street Park and West Park splash pads are open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Hours may be extended 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. during a heat alert.
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Do you want to run for Office? - Nominations for municipal election candidates are now open
The candidate nomination period for the 2026 St. Catharines municipal election is open. Visit our Elections webpage for everything you need to know to register as a candidate or third-party advertiser, get on the voters list and more.
We also update our Registered Candidates daily (usually around end-of-day) with everyone who have filed their nomination papers so far so you can see who is running.
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Reminder - ensure your school support
is up to date before the election
Homeowners and tenants should review their school support designations, and if needed, update them by June 1, 2026, to be accurately included on the Preliminary List of Electors ahead of the municipal and school board elections on Oct. 26, 2026.
MPAC (Municipal Property Assessment Corporation) is legislatively responsible for collecting school support designation data. This information is provided to Elections Ontario to help build and maintain the Preliminary List of Electors.
Visit MPAC's School Support webpage to learn more about school support and how to update your designation.
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Garden City Golf Course enters prime season
Fore! The Garden City Golf Course has officially entered prime season.
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9 Holes: $20.40 walking; $30.40 riding ($21.60 walking; $31.60 riding on weekends / holidays)
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18 Holes: $31.15 walking; $51.15 riding ($33.55 walking; $53.55 riding on weekends / holidays)
The prime season runs until Sept 30.
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Call for artists open for 17th annual juried exhibition
Emerging, student and established artists living in the Niagara Region are invited to submit their work to the 17th City of St. Catharines Annual Juried Art Exhibition, Current.
Niagara is shaped by currents – its waterways, its histories, and the forces that move through the region today. This year’s theme invites artists to explore both the literal flows that define this place and the cultural, social, and global currents influencing our present moment.
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Doors Open 2026
Residents and tourists are invited to explore historic and architecturally significant buildings on Saturday, June 13 during Doors Open St. Catharines.
The 19 participating organizations include the St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre, and Brock University’s Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts. Significant heritage sites will also be open, including the Lake Street Armoury, The Brown Homestead, Ridley College, and Niagara Memorial Masonic Temple Association. The event takes place as St. Catharines proudly marks its 150th anniversary as a City in 2026.
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Enjoy PD Day Fun at the Museum
Visit the St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre on PD Days for seasonal selections of stories, songs, and an exciting activity or craft.
Each PD Day features one-and-a-half hours of interactive and creative activities themed to the season. Activities are best suited for kids ages five to nine years old. No registration required. Programs run from 10:30 a.m. until 12 p.m. The theme for the next PD Day on Friday, June 5 is The Great Outdoors. Kids and families will get a head start on summer with songs and stories about nature and the great outdoors! Participants will have a chance to learn basic knots and take home a special camping-themed craft.
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Get Moving at the Older Adult Centres
The City of St. Catharines offers a variety of recreation and leisure programs at our three older adult centres! Make new friends, get involved, volunteer and keep your mind and body active with our many opportunities.
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June 3 - Toonie Swim!
Come out and join us for leisure swim for only $2 per person!
- This swim takes place in the Leisure Pool.
- Residents can register two days before the program, everyone else can register one day before the program.
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Have your say! Niagara Region updating
its transportation master plan
Niagara Region is updating its transportation master plan and St. Catharines residents can learn about the study, review early findings and offer feedback at a public information centre on Tuesday, June 9.
Staff from the Niagara Region introduced St. Catharines City Council to the Niagara Transportation Plan 2051 update project earlier this month. The Region is seeking input for its transportation needs to best support residents, employers and visitors over the next 25 years. The first public information centre is set for June 9 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Seymour-Hannah Sports and Entertainment Centre in St. Catharines.
VIsit the Region’s project webpage to learn more about the Transportation Master Plan Update.
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PAC offers exclusive first look at the 26-27 season
Members Night is almost here, and the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre would love to welcome you.
PAC Members will gather Thursday, June 4 at 7:30 p.m., for an exclusive first look at the 26-27 season — an evening of surprise live performances, season reveals, a celebratory reception and so much more.
PAC Members receive early ticket booking, member savings, exclusive event invitations like Members Night, year-round member perks and more! Become a member today and don't miss out on Members Night.
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Crossing Guard Appreciation Week
Our dedicated School Crossing Guards are out in all weather, helping kids safely cross busy streets on their way to and from school.
From June 1 to 5, give them a wave or a smile, or you can even download a printable thank you card and give it to a special St. Catharines Crossing Guard this week to say thanks!
Download cards via the below button.
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Holi Festival of Colour
Tickets are now live for the 2026 Holi Festival of Colour presented by Adapt Immigration, returning to Downtown St. Catharines for its fifth year with two exciting festival experiences in one weekend. Join us on June 19 and 20, 2026, for Niagara’s vibrant celebration of colour, culture, music, food, dance, and community.
DAY 1 - Friday, June 19, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Bollywood Party presented by Adapt Immigration
Market Square – 91 King St
Ticketed Event
DAY 2 - Saturday, June 20, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Holi Festival of Colour presented by Adapt Immigration
Meridian Centre Parking Lot – 1 David S. Howes Way
Free Admission
Festival features include colour throws, live music, authentic Indian food, cultural performances, vendors, kids' activities, and more. Festival attendees can also enjoy 15 per cent off accommodations through participating hotel partners. Register and get tickets via the below button.
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OneRead, OneSTC: Terry Fallis and The Marionette
You're invited to join the St. Catharines Public Library and the City of St. Catharines for OneRead, OneSTC!
On June 11, Mayor Mat Siscoe will sit down with award-winning Canadian author Terry Fallis to discuss his latest book - The Marionette. Borrow The Marionette from SCPL and don't forget to register for an evening of conversation and community. This program is free to attend.
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