Dear Neighbours,

As we move into the fall season, I want to take a moment to thank you for the many conversations we’ve had at community pop-ups, events, and right on your doorsteps. Your stories, concerns, and ideas shape how I approach the work at City Hall and help ensure our neighbourhoods are always at the centre of decision-making.

This month’s newsletter brings a number of important updates from Council and across Ward 3. We are beginning the early discussions for the 2026 City Budget, which is a process that must balance affordability for residents with critical investments in services, housing, safety, and infrastructure. I know this is top of mind for many of you, and I encourage you to get involved in the City’s engagement sessions or connect with me directly at an upcoming pop-up.

We’re also talking about the future of our parks, recreation facilities, and community services. The new Recreation Master Plan Implementation Strategy has laid out the scale of the challenge we face in renewing decades of underfunded assets. As Chair of the Emergency & Community Services Committee, I am committed to ensuring Ward 3 residents continue to have safe, reliable, and accessible spaces to gather, play, and grow.

Closer to home, I’m excited to share progress on projects that matter deeply to our community: the ongoing enabling works for the Hamilton LRT, Good Shepherd’s purchase of 370 Main St.E to expand vital health services, and the long-awaited transformation of a vacant site through the YWCA’s Oakwood Project, which is a true community benefit-driven development. These investments reflect the type of city-building that prioritizes people, neighbourhoods, and long-term well being.

I look forward to seeing you at Open Streets on September 28 and at other pop-up office hours throughout the fall. Together, we are shaping a stronger, more connected, and more caring Ward 3. As always, if you need assistance on a municipal or city service issue, please contact my office at ward3@hamilton.ca or by phone at 905-546-2702.

Yours in community,

Nrinder Nann

2026 CITY BUDGET

Last week, staff reported an early look at the pressures facing the 2026 City Budget and Financing Plan to identify investment priorities and the need to balance taxpayer affordability.

With rising costs and global economic uncertainty, the 2026 budget will look to maintain essential municipal services that residents rely upon while also maintaining affordability for tax and ratepayers.

This would cover the cost of maintaining services, keeping up with inflation and investing in Council priorities like housing, safety, and addressing the infrastructure backlog, as well as, estimates for costs associated with Boards and Agencies.

Based on this outlook the preliminary increase for the 2026 net levy is $131.7 M, which would translate into an average residential tax impact of 8.9%.

Let me be clear, this is ONLY a projection. I understand the need for the 2026 City Budget to balance investments that deliver excellence in outcomes for our neighbourhoods while maintaining tax affordability for our residents.

I've already moved a motion to reduce the budget by directing staff to apply any 2025 surpluses and savings from the capital works currently in progress, with an estimated savings of $14M. This would take roughly 1.4% off the overall levy impact. Council will also receive an update on the Vacant Unit Tax stating that over 6700 homes were either deemed or declared as vacant across the city. About 1700 notices of complaint have been received by those property owners who are contesting the deeming of their properties as vacant. Reminder that majority of the revenue generated will go towards Affordable Housing and offset the 2026 Tax levy impact related to affordable housing. (NOTE: It is anticipated to be in the millions!)

I’ve been asking neighbours at the Ward 3 Councillor Office Pop-ups about their priorities for the upcoming city budget and I look forward to talking with you directly about it at the next and final Open Streets of the year on September 28 from 10am-1pm.

You can also have your say through the City’s central public engagement sessions in person, and online this month and next. Be sure to check out the city’s website for more information.

RECREATION MASTER PLAN IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY

First off, I want to acknowledge Acting Director of Recreation, Steve Sevor, the entire recreation and consultant teams in the extensive and excellent work to develop the Recreation Master Plan Implementation Strategy. As Chair of the Emergency & Community Services Committee, I invited my Council colleagues who don’t serve on the committee to attend the presentation knowing how critical well-resourced recreational and park services and facilities are city-wide.

The report was sobering. It identified a $176.7 M backlog of maintenance and renewal investment (in 2025 dollars) for recreation assets, and a $133.5 M backlog of maintenance and renewal investment (in 2025 dollars) for parks assets. This is strictly for the renewal and maintenance of existing facilities, like for like, and does not capture the costs of any future development.

When asked how the City has come to be in this position, staff clarified that underfunding began in the early 2000’s when Councils of the time chose a 0% increase to property taxes that led to the start of the deficit in our recreational assets.

The report made clear that the status quo model is a liability and risk! Historically, the tendency has been to defer critical investments, which accelerates long term risk. Without intervention, this will inevitably lead to growing repair backlogs, infrastructure failures, facility closures and reduced service levels.

I hear regularly from neighbours across Ward 3 and Hamilton how much they love our parks and appreciate our local recreation programs and facilities. From Camp Kidaca to swim lessons, new spray pads to open gym times, and the ability to get into some greenspace for a break from the demands of everyday life. Parks and recreation, like roads and water services, are squarely the realm of municipal government, and our residents deserve a fiscally responsible approach to ensure a safe, reliable, high quality amenities and services in every neighbourhood.

FORTIFICATION BYLAW

Council endorse a motion to expedite the work staff were already doing to review the City’s fortification By-law. This bylaw includes the use of cameras on your property.

Currently, all property owners are allowed to have cameras on their doors or homes so long as the image captured is limited to your own property and the adjacent roadway/sidewalks. Your camera cannot capture anyone else’s property unless you have consent and have submitted official paperwork with the city in this.

To date, there are about twenty complaints filed on the use of cameras a year, of which about 5 result in violations of the existing by-law. The use of private property cameras is permitted and it seems more residents need clarity on what limitations are in place. That said the review will result in a report back early 2026.

LRT UPDATE

The Hamilton LRT will play a key role in the revitalization of our city's urban environment by transforming how people travel within the heart of Hamilton. Modern light rail service will connect key areas, destinations and institutions along Main Street, Dundurn Street, King Street and Queenston Road, creating a 14-kilometre, 17-stop LRT system that will provide seamless connections to HSR bus service and GO Transit service.

As Chair of the LRT Sub-Committee, I wanted to provide Ward 3 residents with the following update of key areas that the City has been leading or supporting Metrolinx in the shaping and delivery of this project.

Enabling Works

Enabling works are underway, predominantly in Ward 3. The City continues to support Metrolinx with the delivery of essential underground projects in advance of major construction. Some completed and upcoming enabling works include:

Sherman Avenue: Resurfacing, sidewalk repairs and cycling facilities - Completed August 2024
Wentworth Street: Resurfacing and Two-Way Conversion - Completion expected mid-2025
Queenston Road and Nash Road: Valve replacements and lowering of watermain across Queenston Road - Completion expected mid-2026
Main Street East and Rosewood Road: Streetscape, pedestrian, and cyclist prioritization - Completion expected early 2026
Main Street East and Ottawa Street: Sanitary and storm sewer installations expected to begin in early 2026 - Completion expected by mid-2026

Project Procurement

Metrolinx is delivering the LRT Project Package 1 for Civil Works and Utilities and Package 2 for Stops, Rail, Systems (SRS). Procurement for Package 1 is based on an Alliance Contracting Model:

A Request for Qualifications (RFQ) was issued on November 6, 2024. More details can be found here
A Request for Proposals (RFP) was released on May 21, 2025. More details can be found here.
The RFP process is expected to be closed by the end of this year. Once a proponent is selected, the project will enter the Alliance Development Phase.

The schedule for the Implementation Phase will be determined through the Alliance Development Phase. For more information on the development phase, please watch the June 24th Virtual Open House hosted by Metrolinx.

Municipal Betterments

Funded by the City, betterments are enhancements and/or additions to the base scope of the Hamilton LRT project. It is important to note that since the LRT Project was greenlit, the City has new Complete Streets Guidelines that set the consistent standards that will shape what roadways, sidewalks, and public realm adjacent need to look like. It is in our interest to ensure the final design integrates these standards.

The Conceptual Design, which is subject to change and refinement, will form the project’s base scope.
The base scope is funded by Metrolinx.
City of Hamilton staff are currently negotiating the project base scope with Metrolinx which will inform betterments that the City envisions adding to the project.

For City-related inquiries on the Hamilton LRT project, please email Eleni Jalbout, Senior Communications Officer – LRT at: Eleni.Jalbout@hamilton.ca

For project-related inquiries, please email the Metrolinx Community Engagement team at: Hamilton@metrolinx.com

370 MAIN ST. E PURCHASED BY GOOD SHEPHERD

Good Shepherd has confirmed their purchase of 370 Main Street to replace a health program previously offered at 870 King Street East for the past 4 years.

The Good Shepherd Community Health Clinic and Shelter Health Network were expropriated by Metrolinx due to the building of the LRT. Recognizing the need to stay within the lower city Good Shepherd tried to locate this clinic within a walkable distance to the downtown.

Their intention is to relocate the new clinic on the first floor and use the rest of the building as offices for the Good Shepherd and Private Market Tenants. Presently the top two floors are rented to the current tenants.

It is Good Shepherds intention to relocate their Community Palliative Outreach Team, Mental Health Crisis Line operation and housing development office to this location in the future.

They have emphasized to my office that at no time has there been any thought of using this space as a residential building. For more information, contact Good Shepherd directly at 905-528-5877 or email directly from their website.

YWCA OAKWOOD PLACE UPDATE
We’re excited to share important progress on the YWCA’s Oakwood Project on Barton St. E. Demolition began on May 22, 2025 with the smaller building west of Oakwood Place, followed by the larger building. The projected demolition timeline was set at at 12--weeks, and after speaking with the team at the YWCA, I’m pleased to share that work has been completed on schedule.

One question I’ve heard from neighbours is about the iconic sign, I can confirm that the YWCA has in fact preserved it.

The Oakwood Project is a big win for residents near Barton and Ottawa Streets. It will help meet urgent needs in our community while transforming a derelict site that has sat vacant and under-utilized for more than a decade. YWCA Hamilton will bring its expertise in delivering housing for women-led families, while also offering highly sought-after amenities including quality non-profit childcare, employment and training services, and accessible community spaces that foster belonging. This is the type of community benefit-driven development we need more of in Hamilton.

If residents have questions for YWCA Hamilton, please reach out to Andrea Davies, Manager of Administration, at adavies@ywcahamilton.org.

I look forward to continuing to support the Oakwood Project as it moves into the next development stage and to celebrating the positive impact it will bring to our neighbourhood for years to come. For more information on the project, please visit: https://www.ywcahamilton.org/oakwood-place/.

WARD 3 COUNCILLOR POP-UP OFFICE HOURS

We have two more office hour pop-up session remaining for 2026. Drop by to chat about the upcoming City Budget, local issues, get updates, or just say hello! Here’s where you can find us:

September

🚲 September 28 – 10AM-1PM – Open Streets @ the Sherman Hub section between Sherman and Gage on King.

October

🍂 October 7, 3:30PM-5:30PM – Bishop’s Park (Wesley location in case of bad weather)

December

⛸️ December 31 – Community Skate (Time TBC)

We’re looking forward to connecting with neighbours across Ward 3 — see you out there!

CITY OF HAMILTON 2026 BUDGET: HAVE YOUR SAY!

As part of the City of Hamilton’s 2026 Budget process, a series of public engagement opportunities have been set up to provide residents with information about the budget planning process, how programs and services are prioritized, and an opportunity to share your priorities to help guide planning for the 2026 Budget.

From September 15 – October 10, 2025, you can participate directly in the following opportunities:

In-Person or Virtual Budget Engagement Sessions: For Ward 3 residents, we get to join our neighbours either downtown and in Ward 4 on Wednesday Sept 24th 6:30-8pm at Glendale Secondary School or on Thursday Sept 25th 6pm-7:30pm at Hamilton Convention Centre.
2026 Budget Survey
Engage Hamilton: Residents can go online to participate in a variety of interactive tools including the Balancing Act Budget Tool and take quick polls.
Direct Feedback Form: Residents can provide direct feedback using our online form or at an in-person session.
And, there will be two Public Delegation opportunities to the 2026 General Issues Budget Committee in November and January.

Ward 3 Resident Input on the Budget

What is clear is the need for the 2026 City Budget to balance investments that deliver excellence in outcomes while maintaining tax affordability.

I've already moved a motion to reduce the budget by directing staff to apply any 2025 surpluses and savings from the capital works currently in progress, with an estimated savings of $14M. We will also be receiving an update on the VUT and how much will be offset from the 2026 Tax Budget related to affordable housing, as a result. It is anticipated this will also be in the millions!

Neighbours have already begun sharing their feedback directly with me at the Ward 3 Councillor Office Pop-ups. I'd love to talk with you directly about the upcoming budget and priorities from your vantage point. You can talk to me at Open Streets on September 28th from 10am-1pm or at Bishops Park on October 7th from 3:30pm-5:30pm.

All other in person and virtual session details and the survey can be found at engage.hamilton.ca/2026budget.

UNDERSTANDING INDUSTRIAL & COMMERCIAL IMPACTS

The City of Hamilton is testing a pilot project to make it easier for residents to raise concerns about nearby industrial and commercial properties.

Right now, rules for businesses are split between City by-laws and provincial regulations. That can make it confusing to know who to call when there’s a problem like noise, dust, or odours. Through this pilot, Municipal Law Enforcement Officers will review every complaint, investigate if it’s covered under City by-laws, and if not, help connect you with the right provincial agency.

The goal is simple: reduce confusion for residents, ease the burden of figuring out where to go, and let staff use their expertise to get concerns to the right place faster.

If you need to report a concern, you can:
📞 Call 905-546-2782 (option 1)
📧 Email mle@hamilton.ca
💻 Submit an online complaint form

Your feedback will help shape this program. By sharing your experiences, you’ll help the City improve to respond to concerns, consider updates to by-laws, and strengthen relationships between businesses and neighbourhoods. To access the survey, please visit: https://engage.hamilton.ca/industrialcommercialimpacts

VACANT UNIT TAX: NOTICE OF COMPLAINT & APPEAL EXTENDED

If you have received a Vacant Unit Tax bill and believe your property was incorrectly identified as vacant, or you were unable to submit your declaration, you may dispute your VUT bill by submitting a Notice of Complaint or, if applicable, an Appeal.

You may dispute it by submitting a Notice of Complaint. The deadline to submit has been extended by Council to 120 days from the billing date on your VUT bill. For more information, please visit: www.hamilton.ca/vacantunittax.

BEAUTIFUL ALLEYS ANNUAL FALL CLEAN-UP, SEPTEMBER 27

Mark your calendars: Saturday, September 27, 2025 from 9am–12pm is Beautiful Alleys annual Fall Cleanup.

Whether you build your own team or join one on the day, we’ll have everything you need to help Keep Hamilton Clean and Green. All supplies included!

📍 Meet at Powell Park, 56 Birch Ave
✍️ Register at hamiltonalleys@gmail.com or online at www.beautifulsalleys.ca

Come out, pitch in, and be part of this community effort to keep our alleys beautiful!

OTTAWA STREET NORTH SIDEWALK SALE, SEPTEMBER 27

Shop, explore, and support your favourite local businesses during our street-closed Sidewalk Sale.

🎶 Live Music with Folk ‘n’ Spoken Word Fest
🏈 Watch the Hamilton Tiger-Cats Game, 3PM – 6PM
⛸️ On-street activities: roller skating, curling, scavenger hunt, photo booths, and more
🍽 Take a break and enjoy delicious local food & refreshments along the street

Celebrate community and local business while giving back! Donate non-perishable food items or cash for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Ottawa St. N & Edinburgh Ave.

Don’t miss the fun! Come support Ottawa Street North this September 27th!

2ND ANNUAL GREATER GOLDEN HORSESHOE DIVERSITY AWARDS

We invite you to nominate individuals or organizations who have made a significant impact on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Whether through leadership, innovative practices, or advocacy, we want to recognize those who are driving positive change in our region.

Nomination Details:

Nomination Deadline: October 3, 2025
Nomination Form: Submit a Nomination
Early Bird Ticket Price: $85 (until September 30, 2025)
Regular Ticket Price: $95
Event Date: October 29, 2025, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

The Greater Golden Horseshoe Diversity Awards will gather leaders from across various sectors, including business, non-profits, and community organizations. This is an excellent opportunity to publicly acknowledge those who are making significant contributions to creating a more inclusive society.

How to Nominate:

Complete the nomination form: Submit a Nomination
Submit one (1) to two (2) letters of support.
Submit nominations by October 3, 2025.

Don’t miss out on the Early Bird Special—secure your tickets by September 30, 2025 for just $85! Together, let’s celebrate those who are leading the way in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in our communities.

CHILDREN’S GARDEN PROJECT CANADA IS HIRING!

We are looking for a passionate educator to help lead hands-on garden learning experiences for kids and families. This casual, part-time role includes designing and delivering workshops in gardens and schools, with a focus on providing free environmental education to equity-deserving communities.

Join us in growing meaningful programs and fostering the next generation of environmental stewards in our region! 🪴

Please send your resume and any questions you may have to info@childrensgardenproject.com to apply. The deadline to submit is October 1, 2025.

🌸 Let’s grow together!

If you have events or volunteer opportunities you would like the Ward 3 office to get the word out on, please email ward3@hamilton.ca.

Do you have any photos you are proud of from across the ward?

Share your favourite #OurWard3 photos with me by either sending them to ward3@hamilton.ca or by using the hashtag #OurWard3 on social media!