More than 80 residents gathered at the Doug Snooks Community Centre on April 24 for the Ward 5 Town Hall, a night dedicated to sharing updates, answering questions, and strengthening connections between citizens and City Hall.
Hosted by Ward 5 Councillors Mandy Samwell and Brian VanTilborg, the event offered residents an opportunity to hear first-hand about key projects and initiatives affecting their neighbourhoods.
City staff provided brief presentations on topics ranging from bylaw enforcement to development, downtown revitalization, road safety, parks, and more. An open Q&A session allowed community members to raise concerns and share ideas.
“We are committed to staying connected with the community and hearing directly from the people we serve,” said Councillor Samwell. “It’s essential to the work we do.”
Among the top concerns raised by residents were upgrades to Earl Haig Family Fun Park, improvements to Brantford’s downtown, infrastructure renewal, and traffic calming.
Councillor Samwell noted that the City is moving forward with several key projects, including full road reconstructions on Division Street and Nelson Street, and watermain work on Drummond Street. Trail improvements and new shade structures are also part of the City’s 2025 parks initiatives.
As for Earl Haig Park, it is scheduled to reopen on May 30 with themed events planned for the summer season.
On bylaw enforcement, the City has introduced an accessible online reporting system and expanded bylaw enforcement hours to 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. daily.
Brantford’s Enforcement Review Team (BERT) is also increasing patrols, monitoring public spaces, and working with Wilfrid Laurier University on crime prevention strategies.
Turning to downtown revitalization, Councillor VanTilborg said the City’s multi-phase project will begin with major underground infrastructure replacement and streetscape improvements in 2025, followed by further work in 2026.
New pedestrian areas, bike lanes, trees, and modern waste solutions aim to create a more vibrant and accessible downtown core.
“Ward 5 residents will see a downtown that’s safer, greener, and more connected,” said VanTilborg. “This project will benefit the whole community.”
Regarding development, several new projects are on the horizon, including Riverwalk Phases 2 through 5 and mixed-use residential developments on Erie Avenue, Birkett Lane, and Bridge Street.
The City’s recently adopted Zoning By-law 124-2024 will guide future growth, promoting intensification and sustainable planning.
On the issue of road and pedestrian safety, city staff outlined initiatives such as automated speed enforcement near schools, expanded red-light camera programs, new traffic calming measures based on community feedback, and lighting upgrades at key crossings.
The Ward 5 Town Hall was seen by many as a strong example of local democracy in action, with residents and officials exchanging ideas to help shape the future of Brantford.
Further information on upcoming city projects and initiatives is available at LetsTalkBrantford.ca.
