Familiar names vying to be Fort Erie’s next mayor

By looking at Fort Erie’s registered candidates page, it might appear that only one is running, but that individual will not be uncontested.

As of Friday afternoon, Regional Councillor Tom Insinna was the only name listed as a mayoral candidate in the 2026 municipal elections. However, Fort Erie Mayor Wayne Redekop said he does intend to run for re-election.

“I love what I do, and it’s something that I’m really quite anxious and eager to continue to do,” Redekop said.

It’s just a matter of filing the paperwork.

Candidates have until August 21 to either file or withdraw their names for election.

Both candidates come with a love of their hometown and report cards reflecting their service to the community.

Redekop was a councillor in Fort Erie from 1991 until 1994, then spent almost 10 years as mayor from 1997 until 2006. His current stint as mayor began in 2014.

A former RCMP officer of 30 years, Insinna has held his spot representing the Town of Fort Erie at regional council since 2018.

He chuckled as he shared how he can be a stickler when it comes to numbers and is constantly asking questions at regional council, always searching for the reasons behind any decision.

That’s a tenacity he said he’s bringing with him if elected mayor. He’s also bringing his drive for transparency, honesty and integrity–three qualities he holds in high regard.

His goal is to understand the way the town is spending money and make sure savings are happening wherever they can.

“I think some of my previous work experience makes me want to ask the question why. Why are we doing this?”

Growth for the town alongside protecting its heritage is another item on his mind. He sees many opportunities in Fort Erie for employment, education and infrastructure and for the community to ultimately thrive if they can get around roadblocks.

“I really want to represent Fort Erie. I really want to be mayor. I really want to show people there are ways to move forward,” he said.

Redekop also sees himself as a strong contender to marshal the town into the years to come.

“It’s a particularly important time in the community’s history, and some of the issues are issues that are going to determine how Fort Erie prospers in the future,” he said.

He added how experienced leadership is key for navigating topics like the Douglas Memorial Hospital and health care, infrastructure needs to remain competitive, and even the changes at the regional level.

The province changed regional council’s structure for the upcoming term, slashing the number of councillors to leave only the mayors as representatives for the 12 local municipalities.

“We need a strong voice at the region to make sure the interests of Fort Erie are protected and advanced,” Redekop said.

Apart from wanting to continue the work he’s done over his current term as mayor, Redekop said his drive to run for re-election stems from being taught about the importance of community service.

“It’s important to contribute to life in your community.”

Voters will go to the polls starting in October with internet and advanced polling. Election day falls on October 26.

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