A new hotel project in the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, is stirring up concerns among some local residents regarding its potential impact and the handling of the development by the developer and town officials. The proposed Parliament Oak Hotel is set to be built on the grounds of a former public school at 325 King St., just a short distance from the town’s bustling tourist hub. Two Sisters Resorts, the developer behind the project, envisions a four-story hotel with 130 suites, event spaces, a restaurant, bar, and green areas.
However, the developer has encountered multiple bylaw violations during the pre-construction phase, raising worries among residents about potential flooding risks. Retired professional engineer Ron Simkus, along with a group of locals, including another engineer and a hydrogeological expert, conducted their own assessment of the developer’s plans. They expressed concerns about the feasibility of the project, particularly regarding the diversion of underground water into nearby One Mile Creek, which could pose a flooding threat to approximately 90 homes along the creek.
Despite attempts to reach out for comments, Two Sisters did not respond to queries. On their website, the developer assures that their site servicing strategy will prevent any adverse impacts on existing infrastructure. Niagara-on-the-Lake Mayor Gary Zalepa stated that the town’s staff have reviewed the plans and have no significant concerns about the project moving forward.
Residents like Ron Simkus and Lyle Hall, who live in close proximity to the development, have expressed frustration over alleged violations of town bylaws by the Parliament Oak project. The town had issued fines totaling $500 each on ten occasions to the developer for various infractions, including unauthorized excavation and soil removal. Despite these setbacks, the town has now granted a conditional building permit for the foundation, signaling the green light for construction to commence.
Moreover, a community group involving Simkus is calling for an investigation after regional councillors decided to waive nearly $1 million in development charges for the project. The rationale behind this decision was explained by a lawyer representing Two Sisters, citing unexpected requirements for additional underground parking imposed by the town. Although some councillors supported the fee waiver to encourage underground parking construction, concerns were raised about the potential financial burden shifting to taxpayers. The debate continues as residents question the transparency and accountability of the decision-making process regarding the hotel project.
In a letter to Ontario’s ombudsman, the Niagara-on-the-Lake Residents Association raised concerns about the regional council’s decision-making process, alleging misinformation and improper considerations. The ombudsman’s office declined to comment on the matter due to the confidential nature of its complaints process. As the debate unfolds, residents and stakeholders await further clarity on the implications of the development charge waiver and the overall governance surrounding the contentious Parliament Oak Hotel project in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
