Looking back to forge ahead

As we close out 2024, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been a transformative year for the City of Welland. This year, we focused on establishing a strong foundation—ensuring the necessary frameworks are in place to support sustainable growth and effective governance. These foundational efforts are essential to any municipality's future success, and while there’s always more to do, we’ve made tremendous progress.

2024: Building the Foundation

This year was all about addressing core needs and stabilizing operations to ensure a stronger future for Welland:

• Strategic Planning and Good Governance: We aligned our goals with the community’s needs and updated key policies, compensation structures, procurement processes, and the procedural bylaw. These efforts ensure transparency, fairness, and efficiency in all we do.
• Reestablishing Key Partnerships: Strengthening our connections at the provincial and federal levels has positioned us to better advocate for Welland and access critical resources.
• Key Infrastructure Achievements: The reopening of the Forks Road Bridge and the grand opening of Memorial Park Pool are prime examples of transformative projects completed this year. These milestones enhance connectivity and provide top-tier recreational opportunities for residents.
• Community Events: From concerts on the canal to tree and tulip giveaways, we brought the community together in meaningful ways while fostering environmental stewardship and sustainability.
• Leadership and Recognition: New leadership appointments have brought fresh perspectives to our team, and programs like the CAO Awards of Excellence celebrated the incredible contributions of City staff who support our shared goals, fostering employee satisfaction and team building.

Through these efforts, we’ve built a solid foundation to grow and achieve even more in the years ahead.

2025: A Year of Performance and Progress

As we look forward to 2025, we’re shifting from planning to action. It’s time to make great things happen for our city. Some key focus areas include:

• Delivering Results: Initiatives set in motion this year will bear fruit in 2025. From infrastructure enhancements to exciting new programs, these projects will improve the quality of life for everyone in Welland.
• Empowering Staff: Behind the scenes, our skilled professionals are driving progress. By investing in their development, we’re investing in a brighter future for our community.
• Engaging the Community: Community input and collaboration will remain at the heart of our efforts. In 2025, we’ll refine how we engage with you to ensure your voices are heard and that we’re working together to shape Welland’s future.

A Note on Progress

No system is perfect, but our collective efforts are making a meaningful difference. Progress is a journey, and this past year has proven that we’re on the right path.

As we step into 2025, I encourage you to stay engaged and optimistic about what’s to come. Let’s build on the momentum we’ve created and make 2025 a year where Welland truly shines.

Thank you for your support, enthusiasm, and pride in our city. Together, we’re shaping the future of Welland.

Rob Axiak
Chief Administrative Officer
City of Welland