• Remembrance Day at the West Hamilton Cenotaph
• Ward 1 Townhall - Budget Edition 
• National Housing Day
• Churchill Park Construction Notice
• Victoria Park Tennis Court Renewal
• Strathcona Community Council AGM
• First 2026 Budget Public Delegation Opportunity 
• Notice of Meeting for Official Plan Amendments
• Nominations Now Open for the Order of Hamilton
• Changes to the City of Hamilton's Yard Maintenance By-law
• Events

Remembrance Day at the West Hamilton Cenotaph

November 11 is a solemn day of remembrance for people across Canada, serving as a time to reflect on the over 100,000 men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Among those fallen were thousands of Hamiltonians who served in World Wars One and Two, seeing action at Vimy Ridge, Normandy, and Dieppe. Across Hamilton, memorials to those residents who never returned remind us of their sacrifice in the name of freedom, democracy, and peace.

One of these memorials is the West Hamilton Cenotaph and Memory Garden located at St. George's Church, 134 Emerson St, in Ainslie Wood. The West Hamilton Cenotaph memorialises the 29 residents who fell in the line of duty. The main stone of the cenotaph, commemorating those who died in World War One, was laid in 1925, and a second stone for those who passed in World War Two was added in 1988.

This year, the West Hamilton Cenotaph and Memory Garden marks its 100th anniversary. A commemoration takes place every November 11, but this year's gathering holds special significance as the community marks 100 years of this important memorial that honours the sacrifices of brave members of the West Hamilton community. For a century, this cenotaph has encouraged quiet reflection and commemoration.

I welcome all Ward 1 residents to join me on November 11 to both remember West Hamilton's fallen and mark this important milestone for the West Hamilton Cenotaph and Memory Garden.

Other ceremonies across Hamilton

Ward 1 Town Hall - 2026 Budget Edition

Join us for the Ward 1 Town Hall - BUDGET EDITION, a hybrid event taking place on November 20th at 7:00 PM.

Key Topics:

• Overview of the proposed budget
• Discussion of key priorities and investments
• Q&A session with city officials

Date: Thursday, November 20, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM

Hybrid Meeting

• In person: McMaster Innovation Park, 175 Longwood Rd, S, Hamilton OR
• Online via Zoom

Registration in advance is appreciated to ensure the room size is suitable.

This is your opportunity to learn more about the budget and share your thoughts and concerns. 

Link to City's 2026 Tax and Rate Budget

National Housing Day

The City of Hamilton's Housing Services Division and the Housing Secretariat Division will host a National Housing Day Event on Friday, November 21, 2025. National Housing Day, officially recognised by the Federal Government of Canada in 2000, acknowledges the ongoing efforts to improve access to safe and affordable housing across the country. This day highlights the achievements and challenges in addressing housing issues. This year’s event theme will be The Latest in Safe and Affordable Housing, with a special presentation by community partner Shawn MacKeigan of Mission Services, highlighting the work they are doing to move people along the housing continuum. Other presentations include updates from the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation, the City’s Housing Secretariat, the Housing Services Divisions, and the Licensing and By-Law Services Division. We invite you to attend this event, which recognises the efforts of the City, housing partners and the community in addressing housing and homelessness issues. If you would like to attend, please email [email protected].

• November 21, 2025, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Location: Hamilton City Hall, 71 Main St W

Churchill Park Construction Notice

Phase 3 of the construction at Churchill Park is underway. The primary focus of this work is to finish the north staircase at Parkside Drive and Kipling Road before winter. Work on other sections of the project may progress over the winter, weather depending. All works will be complete in spring 2026. The park will remain open during construction, but some areas will be fenced off and inaccessible. 

This work represents the final stages of a multi-year plan to renew and revitalise this vital community asset in Westdale. 

Victoria Park Tennis Court Renewal

On November 4, 2025, the tennis courts in Victoria Park were closed to facilitate their renewal. These popular courts have seen much use over the years and are in need of a refresh. Throughout the winter and spring, the existing courts and lighting will be removed and replaced to meet the community's needs. This work is anticipated to be complete on May 24, 2026, weather permitting.

During construction, some sections of Victoria Park may be temporarily fenced off or restricted during daytime hours, Monday to Friday, to ensure work can be done as safely and quickly as possible. All other sections of the park, including the playground, open spaces, and paths, will remain open and accessible for residents to enjoy.

Strathcona Community Council AGM

Strathcona residents are invited to join the Strathcona Community Council (SCC) for their Annual General Meeting.

The meeting will be held on Monday, November 17, 2025, from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Erskine Church, 19 Pearl St N (parking lot entrance). Check out the agenda ahead of time on the SCC's website and join your neighbours on the 17th!

First 2026 Budget Public Delegation Opportunity

The first opportunity for residents to delegate on the 2026 Budget is coming up. Any residents wishing to participate in the budget delegation process can join the General Issues Committee meeting on Monday, November 17, 2025, at 3:00 PM. This will be the first opportunity to delegate before the presentation of the water budget on November 24 and 28, 2025.

Residents interested in participating in budget delegation can register on the City of Hamilton website.

Notice of Public Meeting for Official Plan Amendments

Residents are invited to attend and participate in a Public Meeting before a decision is made on the City-initiated Official Plan Amendments.

The City is proposing to amend the Urban Hamilton Official Plan, former City of Hamilton Official Plan, and former Region of Hamilton-Wentworth Official Plan to conform with Planning Act legislation and Provincial Planning Statement Policies regarding designated Employment Areas. At this meeting, planning staff will present a report that provides information on the application, addresses issues raised during the review, and offers a recommendation on the proposal. 

This meeting will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 9:30 AM in the Council Chambers of City Hall. More information on the meeting is available on the City of Hamilton website.

Nominations Now Open for the Order of Hamilton

Nominations are now open for the 2026 Order of Hamilton.

The Order of Hamilton recognises the exceptional voluntary contributions of individual Hamiltonians, building a better and improved Hamilton. Individuals residing in the City of Hamilton at the time of the awarding of the Order must have demonstrated an exceptional voluntary contribution to community building and/or service in the City of Hamilton. Their contributions must be determined to have gone above and beyond their professional contributions to the City of Hamilton.

Nominations must include a nomination form, at least one letter of recommendation from someone other than the nominator, and the signed agreement of the individual being nominated. Forms can be submitted directly on the Order of Hamilton page on the City of Hamilton's website.

The nomination period closes on December 2, 2025, at 4:00 PM.

Changes to the City of Hamilton's Yard Maintenance By-law

In June 2024, Hamilton City Council approved the Biodiversity Action Plan. This initiative seeks to guide strategic actions related to biodiversity improvement. Biodiversity means "the variety of life on earth" and is critical to human survival, ensuring we have good food, water, soil, and medicine available now and for future generations.

One of the recommendations in the Biodiversity Action Plan was to update the City of Hamilton's Yard Maintenance By-law to clarify regulations related to naturalised areas of private yards. Through the Engage Hamilton portal, the City conducted an engagement survey of residents relating to naturalised gardens. Residents of Ward 1 were the largest group of participants and 90 per cent of respondents were found to possess knowledge of naturalised gardens.

On October 21, Hamilton City Council's Planning Committee voted in favour of amending the Yard Maintenance By-law. These amendments include adding definitions for naturalised areas and turfgrass and adjusting sections of the by-law to reflect the differing maintenance needs of naturalised areas.

These amendments bring the City of Hamilton's policies in line with best practices relating to naturalised gardens and helps advance the Biodiversity Action Plan.

Events - Ward 1

Hamilton Museums - Naval History Tour

• Sunday, November 9, 2025, 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
• Location: Hamilton Cemetery, 777 York Blvd (across from the parking lot entrance to Dundurn Castle)
• What mysteries lie at the bottom of the sea, and how do they connect to Hamilton? The Hamilton Cemetery is full of many untold stories, including those of people who were casualties in naval disasters such as the sinking of the Titanic and Lusitania. Join The Hamilton Military Museum and Cemetery Chronicles Tours for this free event to discover how the fascinating history and tragedy of those lost at sea connect to Hamiltonians. Participants are asked to meet their tour guide at The Hamilton Cemetery Gatehouse. 

Kirkendall Neighbourhood Association's (KNA) Holiday Crafting Party

• Saturday, November 29, 2025, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
• Location: Blessings Christian Church, 115 Stanley Ave (corner of Stanley Ave. and Locke St. S)
• Drop by the KNA's Holiday Crafting Party on Saturday, November 29! The event is open to all ages and is FREE! All materials to make ornaments, wrapping paper, decorate cookies and more are provided. Light refreshments will be served. A donation for the Locke St. Community Fridge is appreciated. Visit www.kirkendallhood.ca for more information.

The First Day of Christmas at Dundurn

• Sunday, November 23, 2025, 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Location: Dundurn National Historic Site, 610 York Boulevard
• Celebrate the magic of the season at Dundurn Castle for the first day of our Victorian Christmas, and best of all—it's FREE! Step into the festive spirit as you walk through the beautifully decorated home of Sir Allan MacNab and his family. The Castle will be adorned with cedar boughs, ribbons, and dried flowers, courtesy of the Garden Club of Hamilton, creating a truly enchanting holiday atmosphere. Bring your loved ones and create lasting memories as you participate in this cherished Hamilton tradition. Don’t forget to bring a non-perishable food item to help support local food banks. 

The Rain Ready Rebate Fall Showcase

• Monday, November 24, 2025, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Location: Fairweather Brewery, 5 Ofield Rd
• The Rain Ready Rebate Program, delivered by Green Venture and funded by the City of Hamilton, has supported residents in installing approved Low Impact Development (LID) projects such as rain gardens, permeable paving, and other stormwater management features. Residents are invited to the 2025 Rain Ready Rebate Fall Showcase at Fairweather Brewery to learn about this year's achievements, hear from program participants, and connect with residents committed to sustainable stormwater management.

Victorian Christmas at Dundurn

• Monday, November 24, 2025, to Wednesday, January 7, 2026
• Location: Hamilton Municipal Cemetery Gates, 777 York Blvd
• Step into a world of festive charm and history this holiday season at Dundurn Castle! Experience the magic of a Victorian Christmas on a guided tour of the grand home of Sir Allan MacNab and his family, beautifully decorated with cedar boughs, ribbons, and dried flowers by The Garden Club of Hamilton. Discover how Christmas was celebrated in the 19th century, from Victorian traditions to Canadian holiday customs. Bring your loved ones and share in this beloved Hamilton tradition as you enjoy the sights, sounds, and spirit of a Victorian family Christmas. 

Events - Explore Your City

A Christmas for the Ages at Whitehern

• Saturday, November 29, 2025, to Sunday, January 4, 2026
• Location: Whitehern Historic House and Garden, 41 Jackson St W
• Enjoy Christmas for the Ages as we explore how different generations of the McQuesten family celebrated Christmas. The historic home is fully decorated, including three Christmas trees complete with period toys and beloved artefacts nestled underneath. The dining room table is beautifully set with the original china the family used for Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. Come to Whitehern and experience the holidays as they were celebrated in the 1850s, 1870s, and 1930s. 

Greener Ward 1

Let's do our part in Ward 1 to create healthy, biodiverse neighbourhoods for all living things! Check out Greener Ward 1!

Ward 1 Infrastructure Updates

For up-to-date information on all the infrastructure projects happening in Ward 1, check out our Ward 1 Infrastructure Projects webpage.

Ward 1 Development Information

Here you can find general information on developments and their status in the planning process.

Follow along for timely Ward 1 Updates via:   

• Email: [email protected]
• Tel: 905-546-2416
• On social media: