Port Colborne City Council officially proclaimed April 28, 2026, as the National Day of Mourning during its March 24 meeting to honour workers who have been injured or killed on the job.
The annual observance aims to highlight the importance of maintaining safe workplace conditions for everyone. According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, there were 1,057 workplace fatalities across Canada in 2023, along with more than 274,000 accepted claims for time lost due to work-related injuries or illnesses.
During the same meeting, council members received an update regarding ongoing infrastructure work at the Sugarloaf Marina. As one of the largest municipally owned and operated marinas in Ontario, the facility features more than 700 slips, including 500 reserved for seasonal users and the remainder for daily or transient visitors. Director of Development and Government Relations Gary Long reported that rehabilitation work is currently underway on Wharfs 18-1, 18-2, and 18-3, with the city continuing communications with the Seaway regarding the project.
The meeting also featured a presentation titled Igniting Potential Through Partnership from the YMCA of Niagara. The charity currently operates the local facility within the Vale Health and Wellness Centre and is a partner in the development of a new $2.75 million child care centre located at 76 Main Street West.
Mayor Bill Steele also used the opportunity to highlight local successes, including the annual Polar Plunge held on March 22, 2026, which raised more than $24,000 to support Special Olympics Ontario. Additionally, the Mayor recognized municipal staff for winning the United Way Municipal Cup, with staff member Annie Beck recognized for her contributions to the campaign.
More information on these initiatives and the full record of the March 24, 2026, meeting is available on the City of Port Colborne website.
