Q4

Reflections on the Last Quarter of 2025

It’s been quite the year.

Accountability, Integrity, and Transparency

Over the past months, I’ve faced multiple Integrity Commissioner investigations — all launched by the same individual — as well as a Superior Court case brought forward by that same person. Each matter was ultimately cleared, with the courts receiving a notice of abandonment from the plaintiff. While the outcomes speak for themselves, the reality is that these processes cost the taxpayer, even when allegations prove unfounded.

Navigating Negativity

Alongside this, the personal attacks on social media have gotten out of hand. Yet when you look closely, it’s often the same handful of people repeating the same rhetoric. More concerning, however, were the threatening letters sent to family members — a line no one should ever cross. The police were involved, and I’m grateful for the strong support I received from the Lord Mayor and my Council colleagues through it all.

I’ve been asked, even by my own daughter: “Mom, why do you still do it?”

Why I Serve

The answer came to me a few weeks ago, on Friday, September 19th, when I sat in a community centre filled wall-to-wall with residents. That night, Team Pilsy celebrated an incredible milestone: raising $1 million for Terry Fox.

That room was electric with community spirit. It was filled with people who live and breathe what Niagara-on-the-Lake truly is — neighbours supporting neighbours, working together to make life better for the next generation. That’s why I ran for Council. That’s why I continue to serve.

Heritage, Development, and Fairness

I know some residents were upset that I voted in favour of rezoning the old Parliament Oak School property. Their concern was heritage. Yet, Parliament Oak is not formally designated. At the same time, we are now facing an application to demolish two homes that are heritage listed — and on that, I have heard hardly a peep from those same voices.

I’ve reached out, asked for feedback and support, and too often the response is silence. That silence speaks volumes. It tells me to stay the course — to keep doing what is fair, consistent, and in the best interest of all residents of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Looking Ahead

Public service is not easy. It requires resilience, perspective, and above all, a commitment to community over personal noise. My pledge is to remain focused on the work that matters — protecting our heritage, supporting responsible growth, and building a vibrant future for the next generation.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not about the politics, the noise, or the criticism.

It’s about community. Always.

—

Councillor Maria Mavridis

Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake