 By: Joe Gaetan BGS
March 25th, 2026
Second in a Four-Part Series
Municipal governance in Ontario entered a new era under the Strong Mayors, Building Homes Act.2022 A mayor now holds a suite of executive-style tools more commonly associated with corporate leadership than with council chambers. These powers include shaping and tabling the municipal budget, vetoing certain council decisions, requiring a supermajority to override that veto, hiring or dismissing senior administrative leadership, and delegating – or reclaiming authorities at will.
In the private sector, similar powers operate within clear chains of accountability: shareholders and/or customers deliver rapid feedback when leadership overreaches.
In municipal politics, elections are held every four years, making the fit tenuous. A sharper look at these powers reveals both their practical impact and the risks they pose to collective governance.
Delegation: Uncertainty Under the Guise of Collaboration:
Subject to any prescribed limitations, the head of council may delegate their powers and duties. While the mayor can temporarily assign authorities to council or staff – budget preparation to council, administrative functions to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) – any or all of those powers can be withdrawn at any moment. The ability to withdraw delegations seems to be the least productive aspect of strong mayor powers.
Delegation can become a lever for control
This creates uncertainty, complicates human-resources relationships, and blurs lines of accountability. When authority over staff roles and municipal operations can shift unpredictably, decision-making becomes cautious and constrained, rather than efficient. In the wrong hands, delegation can reward compliance and suppress dissent, turning a tool meant to foster collaboration into a mechanism for centralizing power.
Veto Powers and Supermajority Voting: The Tilted Scale:
The dual concepts of veto authority and supermajority highlight how council’s traditional decision-making role can be undermined. Even if council disagrees with a mayoral decision, overturning a veto often requires a significant bloc of members to unite. In smaller councils (Burlington has 7 members), achieving that supermajority may be nearly impossible.
A few votes can override collective council judgment
Combined with other strong mayor powers, this dynamic gives the mayor outsized influence over policy, budget priorities, and municipal initiatives. Decisions that were once a shared responsibility now hinge on a single political office.
Budget Authority: Control Over the Public Purse:
Strong Mayor budget powers allow the mayor to set the agenda, table the budget, leaving council with limited practical influence. The final authority rests with the mayor, who can also veto amendments.
Budget control under SMP can put a few councillors in the driver seat.
This concentration of power risks prioritizing political objectives over long-term community needs, especially when council lacks the leverage to redirect spending without meeting a supermajority threshold.
 HOC is the Head of Council, the Mayor. With a seven-member Council, controlling what happens is in the hands of the Mayor, along with just three other members of Council. Hiring and Firing Senior Administration: HR Tampering with High Stakes:
The HR aspects of the powers reveal the risk of centralizing authority over the municipal administration. Decisions over staffing, organizational structure, and leadership continuity – including the hiring and firing of the CAO – can shift back and forth at the mayor’s discretion.
Is authority over staff roles strategic or unpredictable?
This is not just about management style. It has real implications for morale, institutional knowledge, and continuity in service delivery. Staff and council alike must navigate a governance system where executive discretion can alter the internal balance of power at any time.
Key Takeaways: Build Homes Faster or Weaken Democracy:
Delegation, vetoes, supermajority thresholds, budget control, and administrative authority may appear to offer flexibility or efficiency. In reality, they risk concentrating power in one office while creating confusion for council and staff.
Governance systems should be designed for the worst-case scenario, not the best. With voters only able to intervene every four years, it is fair to question whether these discretionary powers under the Strong Mayors, Building Homes Act, 2022 and the Municipal Act, 2001 will actually build homes faster, strengthen municipal governance – or centralize it with questionable benefit.
 Joe Gaetan is a Burlington resident and a frequent contributor on civic issues. He graduated from Athabasca University with a Bachelor of General Studies in Applied Studies.
 By Gazette Staff
March 24th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
 Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns Burlington Ward 2 Councillor, Lisa Kearns will make an announcement regarding her intentions to run, and in which capacity, in the Oct. 26 municipal elections.
Kearns was first elected to Burlington City Council in 2018 and re-elected in 2022 serving the residents of Ward 2 with distinction and strong community support.
Kearns holds an Honours B.A. in Political Science from the University of Western Ontario, and has also obtained the Institute of Corporate Directors designation.
 Councillor on a walking tour of her ward. Known for her many community engagement programs such as downtown walking tours, town halls, safety forums, and regular ward information sessions, Kearns also recently visited Ghana at the invitation of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ “Partnerships for Municipal Innovation – Women In Local Leadership” program.
Kearns serves on the City’s Audit committee, Halton Services Police Board, Burlington Public Library Board, Art Gallery of Burlington, Burlington Downtown Business Association, and the United Way Cabinet.
Her council priorities are focused on community engagement, climate resiliency, local business support, and complete communities.
Questions will be taken at the event. Opportunities for one-on-one interviews will also be available.
This media release was embargoed until Tuesday March 24th, 2026 at 11:30am.
 By Pepper Parr
March 24th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Lisa Kearns will have announced that she is throwing her hat into the race for the Office of Mayor by the time this gets to you.
 Lisa Kearns was in pre-election mode during the Mayor’s State of the City address, during which she made no mention of Kearns. Kearns advised the media that she would be making an announcement, but embargoed that notice until a few minutes before she is to speak from Civic Square today at 11:30.
Why the embargo – everybody who follows city news knew she was going to run for Mayor.
What the public will want to hear is what kind of Mayor does Kearns want to be: A Rob MacIsaac or a Walter Mulkewich?
MacIsaac gave the city the Pier, the Performing Arts Centre and a number of other bold initiatives. Mulkewich kept taxes at close to zero throughout his terms of office, leaving the city with an infrastructure deficit the city is still paying for.
Budgets then are going to be a big, big issue – the 40% plus increase in taxes over the eight years the current council has been in place can’t be repeated.
Citizen engagement has to be revived, and the Procedural by-law has to be rewritten.
Kearns was the Council member who challenged Mayor Meed Ward on any clapping being done in the Council Chamber. Turned out there was nothing specific in the Procedural by-law about clapping.
Among the challenges Kearns faces once the election officially starts on May 1st is clearing up the last few remnants of the changes to the Official Plan.
 Curt Benson: His appointment as the CAO comes to an end when a new Council is elected. That Council will then have to decide if they wish to reappoint him. She has to decide who she will recruit as a Chief Administrative Officer.
She will have to pull together a team to serve with her in the 8th-floor City Hall office.
Questions: Will Kearns be the Mayor that finds herself serving a city where young people cannot buy a house?
There are several massive developments proposed. When will they get to the shovels in the ground stage and will young people be able to afford them?
The seven tower development planned for Fairview close to the GO station is in some kind of limbo
Bronte Creek Meadows is about to get underway.
The Alinea King Road development is stalled. She needs to work with both Planning and Legal to untie the knots for a site that will shift ground zero more to the west.
The Art Gallery crowd have convinced themselves that they need a new building – Kearns hasn’t said she wasn’t on for that idea. She serves as the Council representative on the Art Gallery Board.
Lisa Kearns became a member of Council with an impressive background. While in the private sector she served in senior capacities with large corporations. She knows and understands numbers and can wade through the dense Staff reports and get to the meat of them quickly.
She has a wicked sense of humour and likes working with people.
She studied political science at Western University, where she took part in her first political campaign.
She earned the Certified Corporate Director (ICD.D) designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management. This certification indicates completion of the ICD-Rotman Directors Education Program and signifies a commitment to effective corporate governance. She also paid the very hefty fee, and was chosen as the valedictorian for her class.
Two children whom she has made a point of keeping out of the limelight.
 It has never been a matter of confidence – it’s the concern that she is going to get it right. The downside, and it is something she is going to have to work at, is the anxiety that creeps in from time to time.
One can, and should, imagine what Kearns will ask her Council colleagues to work with her on are the Directions Council gives the CAO.
What will Kearns do with the strong Mayor Powers? They call for her to prepare a budget. Will she look for a way to give all the Council members the opportunity to take a meaningful part?
There will be at least one new member of Council; the Ward 2 seat will be open.
There are high hopes for a new candidate in Ward Six.
Will she begin working with her colleagues on creating a bigger Council? Mayor Rick Goldring loved the seven member make up – it hasn’t served the citizens of Burlington very well.
Will Kearns be able to do what Meed Ward has not been able to do – create a Council that is more unified. At this point, we have a Mayor with close to control over Sharman, Galbraith and Bentivegna – four votes locked in on a seven-member council.
 Paul Sharman hasn’t been rock solid about running in October. She will not need Councillor Sharman as her numbers person – she understands the working of municipal finance as well as he does.
If Kearns becomes the Mayor of the city, Sharman won’t have the clout and influence he has with Meed Ward. He wasn’t rock solid about running next October again.
He once told me that Kearns would be a good Mayor.
Interesting times ahead of us.
Kearns has the desire to be Mayor; does she have what it takes to pull it off?
First opportunity to see how she handles herself will be today – when she makes her announcement in Civic Square at around 11:30 am
 By Gazette Staff
March 24th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
The school year calendar is developed with input from the School Year Calendar Committee consisting of representatives from the school communities including parents/guardians and employee groups. The Trustees of the Halton District School Board and Trustees of the Halton Catholic District School Board approved the calendar dates for the 2026-2027 school year during their respective Board meetings in February.
The calendar outlines the Professional Activity days (PA) for staff when schools will be closed to students, as well as school breaks and holidays. The first day of school for the 2026-2027 school year is Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2026.
These dates will be shared with families and are also posted on each school board’s website.
To view the 2026-2027 school year calendar, visit:
By Søren Frichs
March 24th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
The Rise of Digital Transformation in Local Communities
Homeowners associations (HOAs) have long been the cornerstone of neighbourhood governance, balancing residents’ needs with the realities of managing communal resources. In recent years, digital tools have revolutionized this sector by streamlining administrative tasks, enhancing communication, and fostering community engagement. Across many communities, local boards are now leveraging technology to facilitate transparent financial reporting, schedule maintenance, and even host virtual meetings. For those interested in the evolving nature of HOA community management, this digital wave represents not just a technological upgrade, but a complete transformation in how neighbourhoods operate.
The challenges faced by traditional associations—from cumbersome record-keeping to slower decision-making processes—have driven many boards to invest in new systems. Digital solutions simplify routine operations and empower homeowners with real-time access to information. Whether it’s tracking community budgets or streamlining service requests, these innovations are enhancing operational efficiency and building trust among residents.
Integrating Innovative Technologies for Enhanced HOA Operations
 The challenges faced by traditional associations—from cumbersome record-keeping to slower decision-making processes—have driven many boards to invest in new systems. As digital tools become a staple in community management, HOAs are increasingly exploring integrated solutions that merge administrative tasks with engagement options. Boards that once relied on paper records and face-to-face meetings are now embracing comprehensive software that provides dashboards for financial management, event planning, and even online voting.
Beyond civic tools, digital entertainment has also become part of how many Canadians spend their downtime at home. Online gaming platforms and casino guides have seen significant growth in recent years, with residents increasingly turning to resources like the Valencia Bonita HOA guide to explore their options. As internet access improves and digital literacy grows, more Canadians are comfortable navigating these platforms from the comfort of their own homes.
The adoption of digital tools for HOA management has led to significant improvements in transparency and accountability. For example, many associations now offer residents secure online portals where they can view governing documents, meeting minutes, and financial reports. These systems not only reduce administrative delays but also allow members to provide feedback and participate more actively. As communities become increasingly tech-savvy, focus is shifting from reactive problem-solving to proactive planning—a move that bodes well for long-term community development.
Benefits of Digital Tools for Traditional HOAs
The integration of digital tools into HOA operations is yielding numerous benefits. One of the most significant improvements is the acceleration of decision-making processes. With real-time data readily available, boards can quickly assess budgetary concerns, monitor compliance issues, and schedule maintenance before problems escalate.
Furthermore, digital tools have broadened the communication channels between board members and homeowners. Systems that support instant messaging, surveys, and virtual town hall meetings are fostering a more engaged and informed community. This enhanced interaction not only boosts resident satisfaction but also facilitates more efficient dispute resolution.
In addition to more efficient management, digital systems play a pivotal role in ensuring regulatory compliance. Increasingly stringent requirements from state and federal authorities demand that HOAs provide transparent, accessible records. By automating document management and communications, associations are better equipped to meet these standards while reducing the administrative burden on board members.
Research indicates that digital platforms can reduce process times and improve transparency in financial operations; a report by Deloitte’s Digital Transformation Insights underscores these benefits and reinforces the case for digital adoption in community management.
Overcoming Challenges in the Digital Transition
Despite the apparent advantages, embracing digital tools is not without challenges. Many HOAs face hurdles such as limited budgets, resistance to change among long-standing board members, or concerns over the security of online systems. These obstacles must be addressed carefully to ensure a smooth transition from traditional methods to digital solutions.
 Comprehensive training and educational programs for board members are essential in this transition. By partnering with technology and digital management experts, HOAs can gradually introduce new systems and ensure that all stakeholders become comfortable with them. Moreover, providing clear guidelines and protocols around data security can mitigate concerns regarding cyber threats. A McKinsey article on leadership and digital transformation offers practical strategies to help community associations navigate these challenges successfully: McKinsey’s Leadership and Digital Transformation Insights.
In many cases, small-scale pilot projects have proven effective in demonstrating the long-term benefits of digital tools. These initiatives allow HOAs to test the waters, adjust systems based on feedback, and gradually scale up implementation. This careful approach minimizes disruption and builds confidence among homeowners, ensuring that the move to digital management is both inclusive and well-supported.
Community Impact and Looking Towards the Future
The most transformative aspect of embracing digital tools in HOA community management lies in the empowerment of residents. With user-friendly online systems, homeowners have greater opportunities to be involved in decision-making. The transparency fostered by digital management leads to more collaborative relationships between board members and residents.
As communities experience increased engagement, local governments and community news outlets are recognizing these trends. An examination of community updates from the Burlington Gazette community updates illustrates how technology is beginning to influence even the most traditional areas of civic life.
Looking forward, the integration of advanced digital tools such as artificial intelligence and predictive analytics holds remarkable potential for the future of HOA management. By harnessing these sophisticated technologies, associations can forecast maintenance needs, optimize energy consumption, and customize services to better suit individual community requirements. This evolution will inevitably lead to smarter, more sustainable communities well-prepared to tackle future challenges.
Moreover, as regulatory pressures continue to evolve, HOAs that proactively adopt digital solutions will be better positioned to comply with new guidelines. This proactive approach not only fosters greater accountability but also creates a resilient framework capable of adapting to a rapidly changing technological landscape.
Conclusion: Transforming the Fabric of Neighbourhood Management
The shift towards digital tools for HOA management is more than a mere trend—it is a necessary evolution reflecting the growing expectations of today’s homeowners. Through streamlined operations, enhanced communication, and robust security measures, digital transformation is helping communities not only to survive but thrive in an increasingly digital world.
 By addressing challenges through targeted education and strategic implementation, HOAs pave the way for enhanced community involvement and better-managed neighbourhoods. By addressing challenges through targeted education and strategic implementation, HOAs pave the way for enhanced community involvement and better-managed neighbourhoods. As innovative solutions continue to emerge, the future of community management looks promising. Digital transformation is forging stronger, more transparent partnerships between residents and board members, ensuring that every neighbourhood benefits from the efficiencies of modern technology.
In this dynamic era, communities willing to invest in digital tools are setting new standards for governance. The thoughtful integration of technology secures not only operational improvements but also fosters trust and inclusivity among residents. With ongoing advancements, HOA management is poised to become a model for effective, future-ready community governance.
By Pepper Parr
March 24th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Ward 1 Councillor Kelvin Galbraith told BurlingtonToday that he intends to run for City Council again. It will be his third term if he is re-elected, which is almost a certainty. He might even be acclaimed,
 Galbraith also serves as Deputy Mayor for Business and Red Tape Reduction.
Gailbraith is a small businessman who operated a gymnasium and began accumulating pieces of land close to the gym before he found himself selected as the candidate for ward 1 in a nomination meeting that had 13 candidates.
He entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Emshi Developments Inc., a Burlington based firm specializing in commercial plazas and residential buildings. Notable projects in their portfolio include the Fairview Medical Arts Centre, Brantview Plaza, and the Burloak Common developments. Emshi owns a small plaza to the west of the Galbraith properties.
 Galbraith owns A, C and D. Emshi owns A. B is a garage that may or may not be part of the MOU. That property ownership puts him in a Conflict of Interest which Galbraith declares each time developments close to his holdings are on an agenda.
Declaring the conflict and not taking part in the voting is all Galbraith has to do. He doesn’t take part in the discussions related to property that is close to his holdings.
Galbraith has done nothing illegal.
However, when there are developments that do require a Council member to speak up for the residents in the ward, they, in effect have no representation.
That is the issue before Galbraith. He will say that he can represent the views of the residents of the ward on all the issues.
That just isn’t true. Nor is it what the democratic process is all about.
 Galbraith owns the two lots south of the land Indwell is expected to develop. He also owns the gymnasium (the white graphic in the center) The public has every right to know what Galbraith thinks about the Indwell development that is going to be developed on three lots to the immediate north of the two lots Galbraith owns on Waterdown Road. At this point the development isn’t controversial – it is certainly different and a welcome addition to the very affordable housing the city needs.
Should, and I say this very delicately because I have no reason to suspect there will be any issues with the Indwell development, but if there are Galbraith can’t talk about what is being done.
Galbraith in effect, has a hobble on what he can say. A council member who is limited on what he can say on an issue in the ward he represents should not be a member of Council.
Kelven Galbraith is a decent person; personable and honest; he once said he thought he would like to be Mayor.
I had lunch with Galbraith (he picked up the bill), and I asked if he had given any serious thought to running for Mayor this time around. His response was that he was comfortable with Mayor Meed Ward and would not run against her.
Galbraith has voted with the Mayor on just about every issue.
 The list of candidates was very long – Ward 1 citizens went for Kelven Galbraith – few outside the ward knew who he was. There are some people in Ward 1 who are not that keen on the Councillor, but one would be hard pressed to find more than a handful of people who don’t want him as their Council member.
This is the issue the residents of Ward 1 face. It is something they have to deal with. The 13 people who sought the nomination in 2018 proved the interest is there. Now is the time for it to come to the surface.
 By James Smith
March 23, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Once upon a time in Burlington-by-the-bay, the wise council of the Burlington Burghers, (not to be confused with the much heralded Hot-dogs of Easterbrooks), happened upon some gold the upper tiers of governance of the Fair Domain were willing to gift to the happy citizens of Burlington-by-the-bay to make it a more glad and pleasant part of the realm. The wise council proposed to use this gold to improve a Park honouring the illustrious Spencer the Smith.
As a very wise council indeed, they decided to make the gift of gold accomplish two things at one time; take an idle once loved train station of the Freeman, the village owned and that was slowly falling into rack and ruin, and move it to the Park honouring the illustrious Spencer the Smith. Thereupon, the once loved train station would be once again used, but now as a place of delight, information and as an accessible room o’washing.
 The Freeman station got moved around a number of times while the city figured out what it wanted to do with the thing. When city council failed to come up with a solution citizens found a home. So with the promise of gold from on high, the wise council hired architects to go about their arts by drafting blueprints for a renovation of the once loved train station and move it to a new location where it could once again have a new use and a new life serving the Burghers of Burlington. Plans were put to velum, and the wise council were on the verge of having the town crier proclaim the once loved station’s new use.
But then a storm clouds appeared! Evil trolls who dwelled in the dark towers opposite the Park honouring the illustrious Spencer the Smith and who despised fun and glee clicked and clattered their keyboards. “How dare the Burghers of Burlington take this gold and spoil our view of the billowing lake! A pox on their fun and gayety and on all that is jolly!” grumbled the oleiferous trolls.
The trolls did what trolls always do, they plotted and schemed on how to best stop the wise council’s wish to repurpose the once loved station. The trolls in their coven plotted and schemed and found a weak link in the wise council.
That weakness was found in none other than the Lord Mayor his ownself.! So disguised as poor and humble peasants, they convinced His Lord Mayorness not to use the gold to relocate and renovate the once loved train station to the Park honouring the illustrious Spencer the Smith. So due to the Lord Mayor’s eyes being deceived, the once loved station was left to rot next to the fire brigade’s barracks.
 Sitting on some “cribbing” with a sign badly in need of several coats of paint, the Freeman Station gets ready for its big move. As the years passed, the once loved train station’s fate grew more and more dire and a new wise council with a new Lord Mayor wanted rid of it and told the Burghers of Burlington as much. “As I come from ye olde England, where we have real heritage I say, this not be a structure of significance and heritage, so away with it!” Cried one member of the new wise council clutching his abacus with glee.
“Oh Vandals! Oh Philistines!” cried many Burghers of Burlington (including your humble ballad-monger), “the once loved train station should be saved, if not by you, oh wise council, then by us, its friends!” So the wise council gave their blessing to these Friends of the Station of Freemen to restore, move and renovate the once loved Freeman Train station. Bravely, two of the wise council, Meed-Ward and Lancaster came forward to mentor these Friends of the Station of Freemen. But since the talons of the evil trolls were long, the wise council forbid these friends of the once loved Freeman Train station from moving the station to the Park honouring the illustrious Spencer the Smith.
So the friends of the once loved Freeman Train station set about their work. They listened to many and discovered almost any location in Burlington-by-the-bay would not only cost tens of thousands of dollars to move, but would also cost even more money to move the many electrical and telegraph wires that crisscrossed the roads of Burlington-by-the-bay. Oh whine and pout! Any location is out of our means! Whatever shall we do?
 Freeman Train station commenced moving and renovating the station and collecting olde time train memorabilia. But then a wise friend of the once loved Freeman Train station looked carefully at a property next to the fire brigade’s barracks and wondered “why can’t we use that vacant lot?”. As the lot was separated from an owner’s factory by high transmission wires it was unusable by the factory. Upon approach, it seems the factory owners were all too happy to rent the land to the friends of the once loved Freeman Train station for a loonie so the once loved train station could be moved and renovated.
And so it was that the friends of the once loved Freeman Train station set about raising tens of thousands of dollars (as upper tiers of governance of the Fair Domain had long since spent the gold on more deserving villages).
As the donations came in, the friends of the once loved Freeman Train station commenced moving and renovating the station and collecting olde time train memorabilia.
As some of we former friends of the once loved Freeman Train station cautioned, a structure needs a use. Without a use, it will not thrive. While “locus in quo!” may be the cry of the Agents of Estates Real howsoever, and sadly, without a purpose or a programme even the most efficacious edifice set upon a busy thoroughfare and owned by the citizens of a village will eventually sit idle and slowly slide back into ruination.
 While lovingly restored and with a fine collection of fragments of things of trains and railways past, a collection without a programme is just a collection. The once loved Station of Freemen might end at this point. While lovingly restored and with a fine collection of fragments of things of trains and railways past, a collection without a programme is just a collection. While your humble bard no longer lives in Burlington-by-the-bay, it’s up to new friends to emerge with a new and exciting use for the once loved station of the Freemen.
Oh, and maybe paint over that badly conceived and poorly executed black and white carbuncle of a “mural” slap-dashed upon the wall that only makes the structure look even more abandon and forlorn while you’re at it. Then all of the good Burghers of Burlington-by-the-bay might live happily ever after.
 James Smith on the left, sitting through a council meeting with his FOFS colleagues. It’s been a decade since James Smith lived in ‘Burlie’. He doesn’t read the Gazette all that often. On the weekend he was reminded of the sad news of the Freeman Station being shuttered in a recent article. As a former president of The Friends of Freeman Station, I felt motivated to draft the attached. Smith also ran for the Ward 5 Council seat. Burlington would have been a different city had he won.
 By Pepper Parr
March 23rd, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
The New Democrats believe they have their teeth in Doug Ford’s ankles, and they are not about to let go.
 Premier Doug Ford seated in the Legislature Today Ford is trying everything to distract from his phone records
With Doug Ford eyeing Billy Bishop Airport for his latest use of Bill 5,
Ontario NDP Shadow Minister for Democratic Reform Chris Glover says the Premier is again trampling on the rights of Ontarians to hide his phone records. With Doug Ford eyeing Billy Bishop Airport he is attempting to distract the public from the concern over his use of a personal telephone for government business.
“Doug Ford is going to great lengths to distract from his most recent scandal,” said Glover. “As the Ontario Legislature returns from another extended break, the Premier is using his latest land grab in an attempt to change the channel from his phone records. Ontarians aren’t falling for it.
“The Premier says he consulted with the waterfront community — that’s not true. He says he has respect for environmental laws, but if he did, he wouldn’t give himself permission to break them with Bill 5.
“Bill 5 allows the Premier and his cabinet to break any provincial or municipal law anywhere, any time in Ontario. What environmental, safety, and labour laws are they planning to break at Billy Bishop Airport?”
“What is in his phone records that he’s so desperate to hide? Ontarians deserve the truth.”
The RCMP have questions they have yet to ask as well
By Gazette Staff
March 23, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
 These are the bookmarks you can pick up at any one of the library branches The 2026 Burlington Library Bookmark competition was a huge success.
The individual winners:
Here are the stats:
Bookmark submissions:
0-5 = 45 submissions; 6-8 = 221 submissions; 9-12 = 198 submissions; 13-17 = 11 submissions; 18+ = 59 submissions
534 total submissions
Total votes received: 3,101
 Joe Gaetan
March 23, 2026
Part one of a four-part Series
The Made-in-Canada Housing Crisis
Ontario’s housing crisis – and the introduction of Strong Mayor Powers (SMPs) – did not emerge overnight. They are the product of decades of federal and provincial policy choices. Beginning in the 1980s, the federal government steadily reduced its role in social housing. In 1993, it ended funding for new social housing altogether. By 1996, responsibility for housing had largely been downloaded to provinces, many of which lacked the fiscal capacity to sustain previous construction levels.
Fast forward to the pandemic era: ultra-low interest rates and a record population surge collided with a depleted housing supply. In 2023, Canada added 5.1 new residents for every housing unit built – the highest ratio in modern history – transforming a long-standing shortage into a national emergency.
The Ontario Housing Affordability Task Force Report
In 2022, the Ontario government struck the Ontario Housing Affordability Task Force, which released its report on February 8, 2022.
The report contained 55 major recommendations, including:
- A bold target of 1.5 million homes over 10 years;
• “As-of-right” zoning to allow housing to be built without discretionary approvals;
• Uniform urban design standards;
• Limits on abuse of heritage designations;
• Restrictions on appeals used to delay projects
• Creation of an Ontario Housing Delivery Fund to reward compliant municipalities and penalize non-compliance;
• Improved municipal financing tools; and
• Measures to address labour shortages.
Click HERE to access full report
Were Municipal Councils the Problem?
 The Task force looked at a number of causes, effects and the possible solutions to the housing problem, from cutting red tape – to investing in municipal infrastructure – to fixing the Ontario Land Tribunal. The reports’ view of municipal councils’ role in housing approvals was largely negative – not because councillors oppose housing in principle, but because electoral incentives often push them to prioritize vocal local opposition over broader housing needs. It describes a politicized planning process in which even proposals supported by professional staff are delayed or rejected to appease existing residents.
While the report stops short of explicitly endorsing Strong Mayor Powers, it clearly points toward removing or constraining council discretion – through as-of-right zoning, mandatory delegation to staff, and cost consequences for overturning staff recommendations – as the preferred solution.
In effect, the report frames reduced council control, rather than enhanced council leadership, as the pathway to accelerating housing supply.
Strong Mayor Powers – Genesis?
When voters went to the polls in 2022, they had no way of knowing that the mayor they elected would soon wield Strong Mayor Powers. The reason is simple: Premier Ford never disclosed his intention to fundamentally restructure municipal governance during the campaign.
The Housing Affordability Task Force made no mention of SMPs as a solution to the housing crisis. Nor did the province meaningfully consult local governments, municipal associations, or planning professionals before imposing these powers. In fact, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) urged the province to consult widely, warning that extending such powers could produce unintended consequences.
The concept of “strong mayor” powers in Ontario did not emerge by accident. It reflects a long-standing political view that municipal governance should concentrate authority in the office of the mayor rather than distribute it across council. As legal scholar Alexandra Flynn notes in her analysis of Ontario’s strong mayor framework, the argument has often been framed around the idea that accountability is clearer when power rests with a single elected leader. In 2014 Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed this view directly when discussing municipal governance, stating:
“If I ever get to the provincial level of politics, municipal affairs is the first thing I would want to change. I think mayors across this province deserve stronger powers. One person in charge, with veto power, similar to the strong mayoral systems in New York and Chicago and LA. I would want our mayors to have strong powers but to be held accountable; if the voters don’t like the job he or she is doing, they can fire that mayor in four years. That’s how it should work.”¹
By 2022 that philosophy would form the foundation of Ontario’s strong mayor legislation – powers that have been granted to municipalities like Burlington, and whose practical use and implications will be examined in this series.
Summary
Strong Mayor Powers were introduced as a tool to fix housing. Whether they will actually do so – and at what cost to local governance – remains an open question.
This Series, will examine:
Will the Ontario Housing Affordability Task Force’s fifty-five housing recommendations – or Strong Mayor Powers – actually result in more homes, or an erosion of democracy? The answer to these questions matter – not just for housing policy, but for the future of local governance itself.
Here is what’s next:
Article 2. Strong Mayor Powers – How They Actually Work
Article 3. Strong Mayor Powers – The Institutional Verdict
Article 4. Strong Mayor Powers – A Burlington Case Study
¹ Alexandra Flynn, “Un-Democratizing the City? Unwritten Constitutional Principles and Ontario’s Strong Mayor Powers,” The Supreme Court Law Review: Osgoode’s Annual Constitutional Cases Conference 115 (2024)
 Joe Gaetan is a Burlington resident and a frequent contributor on civic issues. He graduated from Athabasca University with a Bachelor of General Studies in Applied Studies.
 By Tom Parkin
March 23rd, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Will the coming price shock be contained to fuel costs? Or “leak” into other products, maybe bringing damaging Bank of Canada rate hikes?
War, what is it good for?
Not the price of bonds, and that’s a prediction of job losses for Canadian workers unless the coming wave of inflation can be contained, or at least contained just to oil prices.
A deep drop in the price of Government of Canada two year bonds drove yields way up last week, Bank of Canada data shows. The two-year bond is considered a strong predictor of where traders think the Bank’s key rate is headed.
Data from the London Stock Exchange Group now points to a 75 basis point increase to the central bank’s key overnight rate, rising from its current 2.25 per cent to 3.00 per cent by year end. But the LSEG data still only assigns a 20 per cent chance the Bank of Canada will start this rate increase next month.
Interest rate hikes would kill jobs at a dangerous time
Interest rate hikes add costs for households and businesses that hold loans, shrinking the money available for purchasing and investment. Their entire point is to cut aggregate demand by killing growth and jobs.
Heck of a way to run an economy.
It’s always damaging. And this timing is terrible. StatsCan’s Labour Force Survey for February shows Canada lost 110,000 jobs since December. The country is under an attack of “economic force” from Donald Trump as he attempts to deindustrialize us. And though some provinces and the federal government are fighting back with a major projects agenda, and the Carney government deploys defence Keynesianism, those shifts will not deliver in the short-term.
On the other hand, higher interest costs will start inflicting economic damage almost immediately.
Interest rate hikes can kill jobs but can’t create oil
The possibility of rate hikes arises from the attacks on oil production facilities in Iran, Kuwait, UAE, Saudi and Bahrain, and on tankers in the Persian Gulf, have pushed up the global price of oil.
Though the fuel Canadians buy today was probably refined from crude before the war, prices at the pump are already way up.
The price hike is driven by a supply shortage. But hiking interest rates will do nothing to create more oil and therefore will be ineffective at pushing down oil prices.
U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell said his central bank might be able to “look through” the fuel price hikes, accepting the impact, which would be a hard hit, but just one-time. However, Powell expressed concern fuel price hikes might “leak” into other areas. It’s those other price increases that can be affected by turning down economic growth using rate hikes.
This time, can oil inflation be contained?
The previous wave of inflation took off when sanctions on Russia over its attack on Ukraine hiked oil prices. It was pushed higher by interrupted production of key products, like computer chips, and supply chain break-downs, particularly trans-pacific shipping.
But cost increases were not contained to those items. As work by Canadian economist D.T. Cochrane shows, domestic companies used the opportunity of external price shocks to add to their mark-ups, spreading inflation. The Bank of Canada originally believed inflation was “transitory.” But when it clearly had been allowed to become generalized the Bank pushed up rates, with the predicable damaging results.
To the degree Canadian governments can moderate an oil price surge or contain it —by prevent businesses from taking the opportunity to hike prices — the Bank’s intervention will be less. And the damage to Canada at this dangerous time will be less.
It should be a priority of governments to arm themselves with tools to prevent inflation’s “leak,” which will hurt the spending power and the jobs of Canadian workers at a time they are already under attack from out enemy in the White House.
By Pepper Parr
March 22, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
A Council Chamber is where the elected officials gather to conduct the city’s business in a public setting.
The Burlington Council Chamber is so drab-looking.
When James Ridge was City Manager, major changes were made to the Council Chamber.
When compared to Council Chambers in other parts of the province, the Burlington Chamber looks like something from IKEA – done on the cheap.
Compare Burlington with some of the other cities in the province.
 Drab, cheap-looking with an AV system that doesn’t work far too often.  Council Chamber before the renovation.
 The Kingston, Ontario Chamber is a magnificent space.
 The Oakville Council Chamber at least looks decent.
 The Guelph Council Chamber leaves people feeling they have walked into an important room.
 Mississauga parades its history and origin in a nicely proportioned public seating area.  In London Ontario, Councillors know the public is watching.
 By Gazette Staff
March 22nd, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
March 28th – BIG protest Day.
Burlington it would appear is not part of the event. Why?
It’s happening on March 28 all across Ontario. A province-wide show of force against Doug Ford and the conservatives. All across Ontario, people will stand together against corruption and breakdown of Ontario.
From small towns to bustling cities.
More and More cities are being added. Find out more on Fighting Ford (Protest Ford) Facebook group.
If you’ve been frustrated with healthcare, schools, or the cost of living — this is your chance to be heard.
It looks like no one in Burlington wants to Fight Ford.
 By Ray Rivers
March 22, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
All but wiped out as a political force in the last election, the NDP are looking for a saviour to take them out of the backwoods. So they are choosing a new leader by the end of March to replace Mr. Singh, who lost his party’s official status and even his own riding in last year’s election.
 Federal MP, Heather McPherson  Former journalist and filmmaker, Avi Lewis. There are five candidates offering lots of choice with a diversity of experience and background. And the front runners appear to be current Edmonton area federal MP, Heather McPherson and former journalist and filmmaker, Avi Lewis.
 Lewis, like Justin Trudeau is the son of a political dynasty, his lineage traces back to Stephen and David Lewis and tangentially to the origins of the CCF, the precursor to the NDP. He is a strong progressive, an author of Canada’s Green New Deal and the radical Leap Manifesto, which just about tore the party apart on the issue of energy policy.
 Lewis has made promises that would take the party further to the left. Lewis has made promises that would take the party further to the left of where it had been even with Mr. Singh. Clean energy, an end to fossil fuel extraction, more equitable income taxation, free public transportation and public housing are among other planks in his campaign. The NDP under Lewis would likely find it hard to support Mr. Carney’s Liberals on many fronts, particularly as Carney may have won as a Liberal but is perceived as governing more as a Conservative, having embraced many of the opposition leader’s proposals.
The NDP has traditionally been the most progressive of political movements – socialist if you like. The CCF led the way to universal health care, Mr. Singh’s marriage at the hip with Justin Trudeau gave us our current child care, dental care and pharmacare programs. It is arguable whether any of these would exist today were it not for the NDP and their ability to influence the government of the day.
 McPherson: a moderate who came into office in 2019 and survived the purge of NDP candidates in the last federal election. She supported the TMX pipeline despite her party’s official policy, and was an active foreign affairs critic. McPherson is a moderate who came into office in 2019 and survived the purge of NDP candidates in the last federal election. She supported the TMX pipeline despite her party’s official policy, and was an active foreign affairs critic. Having a seat in Parliament is an advantage even though the NDP has lost its official party status.
McPherson’s campaign seems mainly focussed on rebuilding the party and without the kind of earth shattering proposals of Avi Lewis. She presents more like former leader Mulcair than Tommy Douglas. Her leadership is likely to be somewhat Carney-light compared to Mr. Lewis who is significantly to the left. The chance of either of them getting to PM seems pretty remote, from today’s starting point.
Most likely the future for the NDP will be influencing and not governing. In that role it’ll be in good company. The Bloc Quebecois’ sole function is advocating for what it believes will benefit Quebecers most. The Greens were formed to promote pro-environment policies, an issue that has almost vaporized in this new Trump era.
And to the extreme right is the People’s Party, headed by former Conservative Minister and leadership candidate Maxime Bernier. Though yet to gain a seat in Parliament that party’s positions, which can best be described as populist and reactionary, include sharply curtaining immigration, ending dairy supply management and withdrawing from the global climate accord.
 For a Lewis not to be able to speak French is astonishing. The saddest thing about this NDP leadership contest is that none of the candidates can communicate effectively in French. It’s been almost half a century since Canada first declared as bilingual and yet, of the federal party leaders, only Pierre Poilievre is fluent, though Yves-François Blanchet, Elizabeth May and Mark Carney are considered to be functionally bilingual.
The bottom line is that Canada will be largely unaffected in the short run by whoever wins the NDP leadership race on the 29th of March. But Avi Lewis promises to be much more interesting and would definitely liven up federal politics were he the winner – and were he able to win a seat in Parliament and become fluent in Canada’s other official language.
 Ray Rivers, a Gazette Contributing Editor, writes regularly applying his more than 25 years as a federal bureaucrat to his thinking. Rivers was once a candidate for provincial office in Burlington. He was the founder of the Burlington citizen committee on sustainability at a time when climate warming was a hotly debated subject. Ray has a post graduate degree in economics that he earned at the University of Ottawa. Tweet @rayzrivers
Background links:
NDP Race – McPherson – Lewis – Leap Manifesto – Lewis Policies – Language –
 By Sadie Smith
March 23rd, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
Today, the online gambling industry is filled with slots featuring surreal storylines, impressive graphics, and multi-layered bonus features. However, not all of them manage to combine an engaging theme with strong winning potential. One game that achieves this balance is Lucky Penny by 3 Oaks Gaming.
This is not just another Irish-themed title but a real magical journey into the world of legends. Released in 2024, the Lucky Penny slot quickly gained popularity among players at casinos such as https://westace.com/ca/, thanks to its high RTP and a maximum win of up to x20,000. The game also offers a clear interface, minimalist visuals, and free spins with additional features.
Features of the Lucky Penny Slot
 High volatility means that while wins may be less frequent than in other titles, they can exceed all expectations. Lucky Penny is a true gem among slots, offering a unique blend of classic Irish themes and modern technology. Here are its key features:
- High RTP and volatility. The Lucky Penny slot’s key technical stats are strikingly balanced. An RTP of 95.6% makes it attractive to players at Westace casino online and other leading gambling site High volatility means that while wins may be less frequent than in other titles, they can exceed all expectations.
- The 6×5 playing field of Lucky Penny provides ample opportunity to create winning combinations. The betting range from 0.2 to 8.6 coins makes the game accessible to both beginners and experienced gamblers.
- A solid maximum win of x20,000. Players can win this prize even after a single successful bet.
As for the interface, the provider has demonstrated true mastery. Even beginners can master the controls in just a few minutes. The buttons are logically arranged, and their design fits harmoniously into the slot’s overall style.
Lucky Penny Slot Symbols
 Westace casino online has an interesting cascade of payouts. When you launch the Lucky Penny slot at Westace casino online, you’ll see the following symbols:
- This is the highest-paying symbol, awarding wins of 10x to 100x for combinations of 8 to 12 symbols, respectively.
- Glass of beer. A well-known symbol of Irish hospitality, awarding wins of 4x to 40x the initial bet.
- Smoking pipe. This classic Irish symbol pays out 3x to 30x when forming a winning combination.
- Bag of gold. This is a leprechaun’s treasure, worth 2x to 20x.
- Precious stones of various colors (orange, red, green, blue, purple). These are the most common symbols, with payouts of 0.4x to 10x.
Every detail of the slot is so carefully designed that you feel as if you can step into this fairytale world. A musical score with traditional Irish motifs complements the gaming experience.
Mechanics and bonus features in the Lucky Penny slot
Another feature of the Lucky Penny slot, appreciated by Westace casino online gamblers, is its cascading payouts. This means that the symbols that formed part of a winning combination disappear, and new ones appear in their place. This creates the opportunity to form another combo or hit a multiplier. This system, like an avalanche, can lead to multiple wins in a single spin.
The Lucky Penny slot’s bonus features don’t end there. The following are worth mentioning:
Overall, Lucky Penny from 3 Oaks Gaming is a slot that successfully combines simplicity, atmospheric design, and impressive winning potential. It’s suitable for both those new to online slots and experienced gamblers looking for a game with the potential to win a truly big prize.
By Pepper Parr
March 21st, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
One of the Gazette’s features is the comments section, where people can react to a news story.
They are not always kind – part of the process.
Earlier today one reader summed up the way things get done by the MAyor when he said:
 It was designed as a pledge people would sign. “As usual, what we see is confusion, inconsistency, and a process that clearly didn’t work the way it should have. Whether it’s poor communication, flawed execution, or a breakdown between staff and Council, the end result is the same.
But what’s most telling is what happens next.
“Instead of clear accountability, we get the usual pattern from MMW and Council: explanations, process reviews, and perhaps an apology — but no one truly owning the outcome.
“The responsibility for all these failures rests with MMW. People should be tired of her trying to minimize issues at City Hall.. She should be a “leader”and ensure the systems, oversight, and accountability are in place before problems occur.
“This pool allocation is simply another example of a leadership culture where mistakes are managed, not owned.
“All the while there is no shortage of messaging from the Mayor about the importance of “respect.” Once again I say ….”respect isn’t demanded — it’s earned.” And it’s earned through accountability, transparency, and a willingness to take ownership when things go wrong.
“What happens to “respect” when nothing changes ?”
By Pepper Parr
March 21st, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
The first solid clue that there was going to be a race for the office of Mayor of Burlington next October was when Mayor Meed Ward totally ignored any mention of Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns during the Chamber of Commerce State of the City occasion at the Convention Centre.
Lisa Kearns is working the room at the State of the City event.  Kearns, decked out in clothing appropriate for a Mayor was networking the room.
There were signs that the two women were going to have a go at it during council meetings. Close to catfights on occasion.
Kearns is good with numbers; she understands finance. Meed Ward has never understood numbers. During her recent town hall-style meetings, she made a point of having Councillor Sharman beside her to explain what the numbers meant
During those town hall-type meetings, Kearns had the cheek to show up and ask questions. Something that appeared to startle the Mayor.
 Photo ops appear to be political coinage in Burlington. Enough of them can actually get you elected. Citizens seem content with that. Is Kearns going to run for the Office of Mayor? Probably. She will announce when she is ready to announce. In the meantime, she will serve as a ward Councillor and probably continue with the photo ops.
When asked if she would be running for Mayor Meed Ward demurred and said she didn’t have anything to say at the time. Is she “considering her options”? Could be – there aren’t that many options available to her.
 Marianne Meed Ward was just a citizen when this picture was taken. She went on to serve as a Councillor for two terms and was elected Mayor in 2018. Will Meed Ward wait until she has a clearer sense as to which way the wind is blowing – and if the prospects look weak bow out saying she is leaving the city in better shape than it was when she was elected Mayor in 2018?
Meed Ward was first elected as a city Councillor for Ward 2 in 2010. She was a brilliant Councillor – she taught her fellow Councillors to understand what the words transparency and accountability meant.
Councillors Craven, Lancaster and Sharman made her life very difficult for the two terms she served as a member of Council.
When the Chain of office was draped around her neck during the swearing-in – we began to see a different Marianne Meed Ward. Power does reveal.
Meed Ward still has her supporters, but not as many as she had in 2028.
The 2022 COVID election almost didn’t count. The public was in a close to survival mode; wearing masks, which Meed Ward didn’t think were necessary at first.
 When it became clear that the virus was airborne, Marianne Meed Ward began to wear a mask. When it became clear that the virus was airborne, she began to wear a mask.
People stayed home, went out only if they had to.
If there is to be a contested election for Mayor we will see just what Meed Ward is made of.
.
 By Pepper Parr
March 21st, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
OPINION
I am somewhat surprised at the number of people taking issue with the Gazette’S position on the way swimming pool time was allocated in the recent past.
 Cody Bradt, GHAC spokesperson, addressing the Audit Committee meeting. One comment in the Gazette asked why we refused to meet with the lawyer representing GHAC. We had asked the GHAC leadership to meet with them at their pool premises and ask questions.
They said they were prepared to meet with us at their lawyer’s Hamilton office.
Lawyers are not interested in finding a common ground or in dealing with facts that are uncomfortable for their clients.
One hires a lawyer when you want your side of the story told; if the discussion is taking place in a courtroom the lawyer representing you is there to win. That’s why you hire them.
The Gazette has always taken the position that Burlington city Councillors were elected by the people of Burlington to represent the interests of the citizens of the city. Not the interests of a regional swimming club that wants to operate in Burlington using Burlington swimming pools.
The Gazette is dismayed at just how uninterested the current Council is in resolving the issue. With the exception of Councillor Kearns, Council is happy with the decision made to allocate space to Golden Horseshoe Aquatic Club (GHAC) and leave the Burlington Aquatic Devilrays (BAD) scrambling to find space to continue with their program.
 Councillor Kearns chairing a meeting of the Audit committee. Councillor Kearns has come to the conclusion that there isn’t anything to be done at this point. “Sometime in the future” she said, “we might be able to change what is in place.”
The City Auditor was asked to review the agreement that was in place. In a long, very long report filled with minutiae, the Auditors said the city had followed the various protocols in place to manage procurement agreements. The question the auditor didn’t answer, because no one asked him for an answer: was procurement the best way to allocate swimming pool time.?
What is in place could be changed in minutes, at the stroke of a pen. All Mayor Meed Ward has to do is issue a direction under the Strong Mayor Powers she has, directing the Chief Administrative Officer to revoke the agreement and give BAD the space it needs; anything left over can be given to GHAC if they want it. My understanding is that there is a provision in the agreement in place for this kind of action.
Would GHAC sue? Probably – and the city would have to defend a decision that is weak to begin with. The city administration made a mistake – fix it and move on.
The city could be generous and allow GHAC to continue for the season they are about to go into – but would not be able to operate under the provisions of the agreement for years three and four of what I understand is a four year agreement.
The city has been less than transparent on this one. Documents that would shed light on just what has been agreed to have not been available.
Quite why the Mayor has become mute on this issue is hard to understand. It will be a tough stand to explain come the municipal election in October.
By Gazette Staff
March 20th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
 Moved and completely refurbished the Freeman station now had a padlock on the door. If you had planned on visiting Freeman Station on Fairview Street, next to the Fire Station, you would have found the doors locked.
The place hasn’t been open to the public for more than a year.
The Gazette understood that the administration of the station was in the hands of Museums Burlington. In an interview with Kimberly Watson, Director of Museums Burlington, we learn that was not the case.
Decision related to Freeman Station were now in the hands of the city – and the city doesn’t appear to have any plans. All the city is doing at this point in time is checking to see that no damage has been done to the property.
The only news in more than a year was the cock-a-mammy idea Ward 5 Councillor Paul Sharman has to move the station from its present location to Ireland Farm on Guelph Line. It was clear that Sharman had never visited the site; had he done so he would have been aware of the diorama created in the basement, paid for by a Teachers Association. They might want to know what was being done with their very generous donation.
 Jane McKenna was a Progressive Conservative member of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario from 2011 to 2014 and again from 2018 to 2022, on hand for a photo op at a Freeman Station event. Allan Harrington did a nice piece on just how stupid the Sharman suggestion was – link below on that article.
The men (and a few women) who put in thousands of hours and raised thousands of dollars to completely refurbish the Station are ticked at the way the city is treating the gift those people gave the city.
Council members and other ‘dignitaries were quick to show up when there was a photo op.
Related news story:
Moving Freeman Station to Ireland Farm
 By Gazette Staff
March 20th, 2026
BURLINGTON, ON
 Grace a BAD swimmer, made the most of the week-long training camp in Spain. Maybe the rain will have stopped by the time the Burlington Aquatic Devilrays (BAD) return to Canada from their week-long training session in Spain.
When in Spain, there was no limit on the amount of pool time – it could have been 24/7 if that’s what the swimmers wanted.
One parent has suggested to the Gazette that “Regional clubs like Golden Horseshoe Aquatic Club (GHAC), in their efforts to displace long-standing community clubs such as Burlington Aquatic Devilrays (BAD), overlook the importance of stability for young swimmers. With over 40 years of developing Burlington youth, community programs like BAD play a vital role, and undermining them ultimately does a disservice to the sport.”
BAD was certainly serving their Youth members very well while in Spain.
 Training means practicing, practicing and practicing.
The team concluded their training camp in Calella, Spain, where those values were on full display. On the final day, despite a chill in the air, swimmers gathered at the beach after practice—sharing laughter, taking photos, and reflecting on their time together. In a moment that captured the spirit of the group, the coach was the first to run into the cold water, prompting others to follow.
 Yes, it was cold. It was a simple but powerful scene—one that reflected not just a training camp, but the essence of a team: commitment, resilience, camaraderie, and the quiet pride of progress earned together.
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