2025 Annual Report
Welland at a Glance
A vibrant Niagara community offering opportunity, connectivity, and quality of life
Welland is a dynamic and welcoming city in the heart of the Niagara Region. Our community benefits from a unique mix of waterfront recreation, strong education assets, and strategic location advantages that support residents, students, businesses, and investors. Known for our canal, recreational trails, and growing economy, Welland continues to build opportunity and quality of life for all who live, work, and invest here.
2025 by the Numbers
| 55.8K Population |
| 272 Acres of waterway |
| 24 Kilometres of trail |
| 400+ Acres of parkland |
| $50.9M Capital spending |
| $277.3M Building permits value |
Mayor and Council
From the Mayor
In 2025, Welland celebrated countless community moments, from our beloved summer festival series Concerts on the Canal and award-winning events to milestones, that showcase our culture and unity. Our city has not simply grown in numbers, it has grown in strength, creativity, and connectedness.
We have continued investing in infrastructure and quality of life. With more than $1 million in federal support for new multi-use trail links, we are expanding spaces that bring residents together and make active living more accessible. These vibrant trails will connect neighbourhoods and offer new ways to enjoy our remarkable city.
Leadership stability and strategic direction remain a priority. Our dynamic leadership team reinforces our commitment to sound governance and service delivery as we continue to advance the priorities that matter most to residents.
Welland’s efforts to exceed provincial housing targets earned significant provincial funding, enabling essential infrastructure that supports responsible growth and housing development. This progress reflects our shared vision of a city where people can live, work, and thrive.
Our fiscal stewardship ensures that every tax dollar is used wisely to maintain the services residents rely on while planning for future needs. From economic development and employment lands acquisition to affordable housing and innovative programs such as our physician recruitment program, we are building a foundation for long-term prosperity.
Communication and engagement with residents have never been more central to how we lead. We continue to expand opportunities for community voices to be heard and for local perspectives to help shape our collective path forward.
Looking ahead, I am confident that Welland’s momentum will carry us into a future defined by inclusivity, resilience, and shared achievement. Together we are building a city that is vibrant, connected, and a place we are all proud to call home.
Thank you for your ongoing support, engagement, and confidence in our community.
Frank Campion, Mayor
Welland City Council
Our mission is to inspire and promote an active, resilient, and sustainable community delivering the best quality of life possible for all. We respond to the diverse needs of our community in a timely, innovative, and effective manner through teamwork and partnerships.
Back row, councillors from left: John Chiocchio (W3), Tony Dimarco (W4), David McLoud (W2), Bryan Green (W4), Claudette Richard (W5), Graham Speck (W5) and Leo VanVliet (W2). Front row, councillors from left: Adam Moote (W1), Jamie Lee (W6), Sharmila Setaram (W3), Mayor Frank Campion, Mary Ann Grimaldi (W1) and Bonnie Fokkens (W6).
Chief Administrative Officer
As I begin my first year as Welland’s Chief Administrative Officer, I am proud to continue serving an organization and community defined by momentum and opportunity. This annual report highlights the progress made over the past year and the strong foundation we are building for Welland’s future.
Our greatest strength is our people. I have been consistently impressed by the professionalism, innovation, and dedication of staff across the organization. Supported by the strategic leadership of Council, their commitment to public service has delivered meaningful results. Together, we have advanced priority initiatives, strengthened service delivery, and made measurable progress on our Strategic Plan.
Over the past year, we invested in our workforce by enhancing workplace culture, expanding professional development, and prioritizing employee well-being. Through collaboration, we defined our shared values of respect, teamwork, and flexibility, fostering an environment where employees feel empowered to perform at their best.
Our Strategic Plan continues to guide decision-making, with a focus on health and well-being, economic growth, environmental stewardship, and livability. We remain committed to accountability and transparency through our Strategic Plan dashboard, which tracks progress and performance for Council and the community.
As Welland continues to grow, we are taking a disciplined approach to ensure growth supports growth. Strategic investments in infrastructure, services, and amenities are building a more connected, inclusive, and resilient city.
With a strong foundation, clear direction, and a dedicated team, Welland’s future is bright. I look forward to working alongside Council, staff, and the community as we continue shaping a city where everyone can thrive.
Thank you for your continued support.
Jessica Ruddell, CAO
Welland Strategic Plan 2023 to 2026
Guiding our shared vision and priorities for a strong and sustainable future
2025 Progress Update
Clear priorities. Measurable progress. Real results.
The City of Welland’s 2023–2026 Strategic Plan provides a clear roadmap for building a strong, resilient, and thriving community. Guided by four strategic priorities, Council and staff continue to advance economic opportunity, environmental responsibility, community well-being, and overall livability. As of December 2025, the Strategic Plan is:
This progress reflects Council’s commitment to delivering measurable results while adapting to evolving community needs and external pressures.
Strategic Priority One: Economic Growth
Creating a diverse economy through partnerships and emerging markets to ensure sustainable growth and quality employment. In 2025, the City strengthened Welland’s economic foundation by advancing initiatives that support investment attraction, business retention and expansion, workforce development, and sector diversification.
Key highlights
- Attracting new businesses and supporting existing employers
- Strengthening regional and local economic partnerships
- Supporting emerging industries and innovation
- Expanding quality employment opportunities
Economic Growth remains one of the strongest-performing priorities in the Strategic Plan.
Strategic Priority Two: Environmental Stewardships
Protecting the ecosystem through responsible decision-making, professional processes, incentives, policies, and operational practices. In 2025, the City advanced sustainability through improved policies, strengthened operational practices, and environmental considerations embedded in planning and infrastructure.
Key highlights
- Environmentally responsible planning and policy development
- Operational practices that reduce environmental impact
- Long-term resource management and sustainable growth
- Community awareness and stewardship initiatives
Welland continues building a more sustainable future.
Strategic Priority Three: Health and Well-being
Promoting personal health and well-being by offering diverse recreational opportunities, advocating for improved healthcare access, and supporting safety and security. In 2025, investments in recreation, healthcare advocacy, and community safety strengthened quality of life for residents across the city.
Key highlights
- Expanded recreational programming and facility access
- Strengthened access to primary care services
- Community safety initiatives
- Inclusive programming reflecting diverse needs
Health and Well-being show strong and sustained momentum.
Strategic Priority Four: Livability
Creating a sense of belonging while enhancing mobility, housing options, recreation access, and community connectivity. In 2025, Livability initiatives focused on strengthening neighbourhoods, enhancing mobility, and supporting vibrant public spaces.
Key highlights
- Supporting diverse housing development
- Improving access to recreation and community events
- Enhancing transportation efficiency and mobility
- Encouraging neighbourhood job growth and vitality
Progress continues steadily as Welland builds a more connected and accessible city.
Looking ahead
As the Strategic Plan enters its final year, Welland remains focused on delivering measurable outcomes that strengthen the community today and position the city for long-term success. With the majority of initiatives either completed or on track, the 2025 update reflects strong forward momentum. Council and staff will continue working collaboratively to ensure strategic priorities translate into tangible results for residents, businesses, and the broader community.
Community Services
Supporting wellness, connection, and belonging across our community
Welland Community Centre
Between 2023 and 2025, the Welland Community Centre significantly expanded programming and service delivery, supporting wellness and connection across all age groups. Growth was evident across program volume, enrolments, and specialized offerings, reflecting increased capacity and utilization.
The Welland Community Centre continued to serve as a hub for nourishment, culture, and community support throughout the year. The Canal Bistro provided homemade meals for members and visitors, while the Canalside Players presented Five Alarm, selling nearly 400 tickets. The Centre also operated as a warming and cooling centre as needed, offering a safe and welcoming space for residents during periods of extreme weather.
| 220 Programs offer ▲ 57% |
| 2.2K Active members ▲ 2% |
| 4.8K Spring/summer registrants ▲ 118% |
| 4.8K Pavilion bookings ▲ 66% |
| 1.2K Open therapy participants ▲ 28% |
Recreation, Sport and Culture: 2025 at a glance
Concerts on the Canal earned a Top 100 Festivals and Events in Ontario award, while Welland Girls Sports Day received the IDEA Award from Parks and Recreation Ontario for Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility.
| 260 Events delivered |
| 474 Total event days |
| $368K Invested through community grants |
| 23 Community organizations supported |
Community grants
Launched for the 2025 grant year, the Community Grants Program supported not-for-profit groups and individuals who enhance social, cultural, and recreational life in Welland. Grants supported initiatives delivering social, cultural, and recreational benefits, focusing on collaboration, capacity-building, and community impact
| $368K Distributed |
| 30 Organizations funded |
Neighbourhood associations
In 2025, Council adopted the Neighbourhood Association Policy, formally recognizing neighbourhood associations as valued partners in community building and local engagement. The policy provides a clear framework for sustainability, accountability, and equitable access to City support. Associations held their first collective meeting later in the year, marking an important step toward shared learning and coordinated neighbourhood engagement.
Event growth
Event programming continued to expand significantly between 2023 and 2025, reflecting increased participation and demand across the community.
Growth included City-hosted programming, markets, waterway events, free skates, committee-led activities, third-party events on municipal property, and events supported by City teams throughout Welland.
Space and facility rentals
Facility rentals remained strong in 2025, with increased use across most facility types. Slight declines in waterway rentals reflect the rotational scheduling of certain events, rather than reduced demand.
| 15.2K Hours booked on the waterway ▼ 2.5% |
| 27.9K Hours booked in multi-purpose rooms ▲ 2.7% |
| 7.7K Hours booked on sports fields ▲ 35.2% |
| 9.5K Hours booked for pavilions ▲ 38.2% |
| 2.5K Hours booked at Welland arenas ▲ 13.3% |
Camps and youth recreation
A long-standing community program serving families for over 40 years. This nine-week program fosters skill development, social connection, and a love of learning, making it a cornerstone of summer experiences in the community for 871 campers. Activities included STEM, sports, crafts, yoga, guest speakers and local excursions.
Welland Sportz Camp
A multi-sport day camp fostering physical literacy, confidence, and teamwork in a fun, supportive environment. Over the eight-week program, 142 campers enjoyed multi-sport activities promoting fitness, social skills, and mental well-being, with an mphasis on teamwork, confidence, and a lifelong connection to sport.
There was strong participation throughout the summer season, providing accessible recreation opportunities for all ages.
Rec Rentals at the Docks
| 793 Kayak rentals |
| 494 SUP rentals |
| 112 Canoe rentals |
| 86 Hydro bike rentals |
| 61 Pedal boat rentals |
Empire Sportsplex
| 445 Court rentals |
| 220 Walk-in rentals |
Parks and open spaces
In 2025, the Park Project Highlights included more than 300 trees planted by City staff and an additional 1,842 trees planted through capital projects and partnerships, along with multiple park, trail, and facility renewals citywide, as well as accessibility, safety, and amenity upgrades across the system.
2025 Signature Project: The Cove – Rob Fulbrook Park
Opened in July 2025 in Dain City West in partnership with Precedent Land Co. (formerly Empire Homes), the park reflects the City’s commitment to growth paying for growth. Named in memory of Rob Fulbrook, the park serves as both a community gathering space and a lasting tribute. Features include playgrounds, splash pad, universal washroom, picnic areas, trails, amphitheatre, and connections to the Welland Recreational Canal.
Parks and open spaces
In 2025, the City advanced park improvements and community enhancements across Welland’s park system. More than 300 trees were planted by City staff, with an additional 1,842 trees planted through capital projects and partnerships, including 70 large-caliper trees along Kingsway supported by $14,300 in Niagara Community Foundation funding.
Upgrades included gateway signage and landscaping, the NWBIA pavilion along the Recreational Canal, new 1812 Trail signage and an online Trail Story Map, baseball infield conversions, dog park enhancements, pedestrian bridge repairs, sport field and fencing upgrades, sanitation improvements, and landscape renewals citywide.
Accessibility, safety, and amenity upgrades were completed across multiple parks, along with 89 cemetery foundation restorations and new memorial benches and trees.
Community-focused additions included the installation of a Wind Phone in partnership with Hospice Niagara and a sharps container at the Ontario Road parkette to enhance public safety. Staff capacity was strengthened through mental health awareness and de-escalation training for 65 team members, supporting safe and welcoming public spaces throughout the city.
Facilities
In 2025, the Facilities Division delivered major infrastructure, accessibility, and safety upgrades across City facilities. Projects included roof replacements at City Hall and the Welland Community Centre, Courthouse boiler upgrades, Museum elevator modernization, asbestos abatement at the Municipal Service Centre, and demolition of the Burgar Park gatehouse and Lyons Avenue Fire Station.
Accessibility improvements advanced citywide, including a new Maple Park Pool ramp, automatic door operators, accessible parking, and additional AODA enhancements.
Arena building envelope and refrigeration upgrades were completed, and an Arena Feasibility Study was launched to guide long-term planning.
Safety initiatives included CPTED audits, emergency procedure training for Council, and collaboration with Niagara Regional Police Service on surveillance enhancements.
Strategic planning progressed through the Cooks Mills Community Centre and Park Needs Study and Merritt Island Community Centre design work.
Corporate improvements included Council Chambers upgrades, facility branding installations, completion of Fire Station #3, and 1,723 work orders completed through CityWorks, strengthening service delivery and preventative maintenance across the city.
Bylaw, Parking and Emergency Services
Ensuring safe, accessible, and well-maintained public spaces
Bylaw and Parking
In 2025, the Parking and Bylaw Division enforced City regulations and property standards, supporting public safety, community upkeep, and compliance with municipal by-laws.
$319,230 of work completed on non-compliant properties, including grass cutting, refuse and tree removal, and vacant building board-ups
Bylaw Enforcement
| 1.9K Investigations conducted |
| 475 Penalty notices issued |
| $264.2 Enforcement work revenue |
Parking Enforcement
| 11.7K Penalty Notices Issued |
| $391K Penalty Notice Revenue |
Welland Fire and Emergency Services
In 2025, WFES responded to 3,175 emergency calls, a 14 per cent increase from 2024, while continuing to enhance staffing and modernize facilities. Five additional full-time firefighters joined, bringing the complement to 17 per platoon. Fire Station #3, named for Captain Craig Bowman, opened in December 2025, and a new training tower at Fire Station #1 is underway to strengthen firefighter skills.
Fire prevention programs successfully brought properties into compliance with the Ontario Fire Code and delivered engaging fire and life safety education to the community.
Planning and Development
Shaping growth that supports strong neighbourhoods and a livable city
The Planning Division oversees applications under the Planning Act, prepares agreements and bylaws, and provides support for mapping, property matters, studies, and community programs. In 2025, the Division processed a variety of planning applications, supported development incentives, and monitored construction activity across the city, contributing to Welland’s ongoing growth and livability.
In addition, there were seven site plan exemptions, four extensions of draft approval, and two plans of condominium/exemption requests.
2025 Planning applications
| 9 Zoning bylaw Amendments |
| 4 Plan of Subdivision |
| 6 Official Plan Amendments |
| 19 Consents |
| 38 Minor Variances |
| 21 Site Plan Control Applications and Exemptions |
Community Improvement Plan (CIP) Applications
Downtown and Health & Wellness Cluster
| 8 Applications received |
| $1.06M Total estimated grant value |
| $4.2M Total estimated construction value |
Brownfield
| 3 Applications received |
| $41.6K Total estimated grant value |
Gateway
| 2 Applications received |
| $26.2M Total estimated construction value |
| 135 Jobs created |
Affordable Rental Housing
| 3 Applications Received |
| $172.5K Total estimated grant value |
| $1.6M Total estimated construction value |
| 29 Affordable rental units created |
2025 Building Permits and Construction Value
| 653 Permits Issued |
| $169.5M Residential |
| 482 Residential units |
| $58.7M Commercial |
| $21.4M Industrial |
| $26.7M Institutional |
| $818.7K Agriculture |
Economic Development
Helping our community grow through investment, jobs, and opportunity
Welland’s economic development efforts focus on building strong partnerships and supporting business growth across multiple sectors. Strategically located within the Niagara Region and supported by strong transportation infrastructure, the city is well positioned to attract manufacturing and supply chain investment while also enabling growth in the commercial and health and well-being sectors. Through a proactive development approach and the availability of shovel-ready employment lands, Welland offers a competitive environment for businesses to locate, expand, and innovate, supporting a balanced and resilient local economy.
2025 Highlights
| 5 New Manufacturing and Industrial Businesses |
| 19 New Downtown Businesses |
| 15 New Commercial Businesses (excluding downtown) |
| 3 New Medical Clinics |
| 5 New Family Physicians |
Industrial and Manufacturing Developments
In 2025, Welland welcomed five new and expanding industrial and manufacturing businesses, reflecting continued investment across the city’s employment areas. Highlights included the expansion of Dermablend in the River Road Business Park, and new facilities such as Vaultra Storage and Marty’s Heating and Air Conditioning. Collectively, these investments strengthen Welland’s industrial base, support local employment, and reinforce the city’s appeal as a destination for business growth.
Commercial and Retail Development
Welland experienced continued commercial growth in 2025, with 15 new businesses opening outside the downtown core. New establishments included restaurants, quick-service food, retail, personal services, and neighbourhood amenities, with a mix of national brands and locally owned businesses. Notable openings included Pet Valu, Taco Bell, Wendy’s, and Firehouse Subs, alongside La Gabella Deli, Everest Rasoi, and Ma’s Soups and Sandwiches. These additions expand local services, create employment opportunities, and support complete communities across the city.
Downtown Commercial Development
The downtown core continued to see strong growth in 2025, with 19 new businesses opening across retail, food and beverage, personal services, and professional uses. New establishments included Bomb Bish Bakery, Il Forno Restobar, Barber Nation, Welland Indian Bistro, and Big Carm’s Italian Market, alongside service-based and creative enterprises such as Sage Counselling Niagara and Love and Truth Tattoo. Together, these businesses enhance downtown vitality, support employment, and strengthen Welland’s role as a destination for residents and visitors.
Health Care and Physician Updates
In 2025, Welland expanded access to health care and wellness services with three new family practices and medical support clinics. New and expanding providers included community pharmacies, family practices, walk-in clinics, and mental health services, such as Welland Family Doctors and Walk-In Clinic, Crowland Medical Centre, Bridgeview Medical, Sage Counselling Niagara, and Reflect Reset Renew. In addition, 5 new family physicians joined the Welland roster, improving access to primary care and supporting community well-being.
Finance
The finance department is focused on stretching tax dollars so the City can continue providing quality programs and services to the public.
Distribution of tax dollars for an average residential property assessed at $232,000
- Education $354.96 | 8.05%
- Niagara Region $2,126.19 | 48.20%
- City of Welland $1,930.48 | 43.75%
City of Welland 2025 Operating Budget $80,582,627:
| Budget Breakdown | $ | % |
|---|---|---|
| Parks, recreation, pools, arenas, Welland Community Centre | $13,060,165 | 16.21% |
| Administration, Clerks, Legal, Finance, Human Resources | $15,314,083 | 18.99% |
| Fire protection | $13,740,932 | 17.05% |
| Roads, sidewalks, street cleaning, winter control, streetlights | $12,447,250 | 15.45% |
| Debt | $6,234,403 | 7.74% |
| Contribution to capital projects | $7,888,395 | 9.79% |
| Community planning, building, and Economic Development | $5,793,886 | 7.19% |
| Library services | $2,801,670 | 3.48% |
| Operating grants | $440,547 | 0.55% |
| Contribution to reserves | $2,156,868 | 2.68% |
| Other grants (permissive and contractual) | $704,428 | 0.87% |
Library and Museum
Connecting our community through learning, culture, and shared stories
Welland Public Library
In 2025, the Welland Public Library strengthened access to resources, services, and programs for the community while preparing for future growth with a Strategic Plan guiding operations from 2026–2030. In-person visits rose 4.3 per cent, materials usage increased 8.15 per cent, and 45,447 residents participated in 1,731 programs, events, and activities. Each dollar invested generated an estimated — a 909 per cent return.
Investments in physical and digital spaces included new accessible public computer stations at the Main Branch, an expanded service point at Seaway Mall, and preparations for a mobile service point launching in 2026 to bring services directly into the community. Staff also continued to expand social programming, community-led service development, and partnerships with local organizations.
| 25.8K Library Cardholders |
| 195K In-person Visits |
| 121.8K Items in Collection |
| 213K Items Borrowed |
| 1.4M Online Catalogue Visits |
| 37K Reference Inquiries |
Welland Public Library
Investments in physical and digital spaces included new accessible public computer stations at the Main Branch, an expanded service point at Seaway Mall, and preparations for a mobile service point launching in 2026 to bring services directly into the community. Staff also continued to expand social programming, community-led service development, and partnerships with local organizations.
| 103.4K Internet/Wifi Sessions |
| 1.7K Library Programs |
| 45.4K Program Attendance |
| 1.99M Website Visits |
| 143K Social Media Visits |
| 22.5K Items exchanged through LiNC |
Welland Museum
In 2025, the Welland Museum continued to strengthen its role as a community hub, offering engaging opportunities for residents and visitors to explore Welland’s heritage. Through interactive exhibits, educational programming, and community partnerships, the Museum delivered inclusive, accessible experiences that supported lifelong learning, cultural understanding, and civic pride.
The Museum welcomed thousands of visitors through a mix of on-site, off-site, and outreach programming that expanded access to local history and culture. Temporary exhibitions included The Underground Railroad, the Princess Elizabeth Public School Art Show, the Francis Turnbull Art Exhibit, and Historic Maps of Welland. Permanent gallery enhancements included the dedication of the Wayne Campbell Gallery, featuring expanded interpretation of the Welland Tribune and downtown business history.
| 7K In-person Visits |
| 155 Programs Delivered |
| 285 Student Visits |
| 12K Website Views |
| 1.9M Social Media Views |
Welland Museum
Family and youth programming remained a core focus, with Messy @ the Museum, school programs, and seasonal camps offering hands-on, curriculum-linked learning. Adult programming continued through talks, workshops, special events, and the return of walking tours highlighting downtown buildings and murals.
Outreach and partnerships broadened the Museum’s reach through city-wide festivals, pop-up exhibits, and collaborative initiatives with community and educational partners, including the DSBN Heritage Fair. Ongoing collections and research work supported public access to historical information while ensuring responsible stewardship of the Museum’s holdings.
Corporate Communications
Always inviting people to join the conversation
City of Welland staff continue to find new ways to connect and engage with citizens and gather public feedback. With people always changing, their needs are also evolving; therefore, our team aims to leverage the right channels to reach and communicate with a broader audience. At our core is the belief that listening is the essence to better communication.
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