Local politicians share their non-political resolutions for 2025

Fort Erie town council members are beginning the second half of their term in 2025 and have plenty of issues on their plate.

Healthcare services, affordable housing, and managing growth are all matters the town’s local politicians will be tackling.

But they are also human beings with their own lives and personal agenda items to consider.

Recently, Fort Erie Radio reached out to Mayor Wayne Redekop, all six members of council, as well as Regional Councillor Tom Insinna to ask what their New Year’s resolutions are, ones that are non-political and have nothing to do with files they are working on as elected officials.

All but one municipal councillor shared what their plans are for the year and answers touched on things such as weight loss, tidiness around home, and the importance of family.

Mayor Redekop said he “won’t be giving up anything” in 2025, but that he will probably be taking on more.

“However, one thing I am committed to is not taking anything for granted,” said Redekop.

“Not my health, not my family and friends, not the daily occurrences in life, not how people should treat each other,” he added.

Ward 1 Councillor George McDermott said he plans to spend more time enjoying the Fort Erie Race Track. Another thing he plans to do is “eat less chocolate” and to become a better “straightman” for Fort Erie Radio host James Culic, as he is a regular guest on his weekly show.

Nick Dubanow, councillor for Ward 2, said dropping weight he gained during the COVID-19 pandemic and getting his “ass back into shape” are his priorities.

Ward 3 Councillor Darren Flagg said he and his family plan to “do things rather than buy things,” adding that “life gets too busy and we get swept up.”

This will involve making time to create memories as simple as game or movie nights.

“All too often we live life rather than experience and enjoy it,” said Flagg.

Ward 4 Councillor Joan Christensen said her resolution is a bit “silly,” and is one she’s been meaning to get to for some time.

“I have a lot of artwork that has been sitting on the floors of my living and dining rooms since I moved into the house almost eight years ago,” said the Ridgeway councillor.

“My 2025 resolution is to actually hang them,” she told Fort Erie Radio.

Tom Lewis, who represents Ward 5 and the Crystal Beach area of town, said his resolution is to practice more intentional self-care.

“It’s easy to overlook our own well-being while focusing on work and family and others, but it’s essential to prioritize ourselves, too,” he said.

“As I grow older, I’ve come to cherish the importance of nurturing my mind, body, and spirit. This year, I’m committed to making time for myself and embracing habits that keep me healthy and balanced,” added Lewis.

Ward 6 Councillor Ann-Marie Noyes was unable to respond to Fort Erie Radio’s inquiry for this story prior to publication.

Insinna, Fort Erie’s regional councillor, said he is going to take time to “smell the roses” in 2025.

“As we get older, it feels the time is going by much faster,” he said.

He told Fort Erie Radio it is time for him to “enjoy the moment,” also throwing a line in his statement that he wants to see a plan for the old Gilmore Lodge property come together.

Stay Informed

Events, offers, contests, and breaking news, all delivered straight to your inbox.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

Subscribe