I’d like to provide some clarification on remarks introduced by the Mayor referencing the loss of his son in 2023 in response to my argument at a Candidates Forum for a strong and consistent commitment to Regional Council responsibilities.
First and foremost, I regret that a deeply private family tragedy has become part of this public discussion. The loss of a child is a profound and heartbreaking experience, and I do not believe anyone should be expected to publicly account for their grief. Personal loss deserves empathy and understanding, regardless of the policy or political issues being discussed. I offer my sincere condolences to him and his family as I and many members of the community did in 2023 when we heard of his passing.
During my speech at the candidates forum, I advocated that the Mayor’s role should be a full-time commitment with regular in-person attendance at Regional Council meetings, highlighting that the Mayor had been absent from one quarter of Regional Council meetings in 2025, while attending a further 50% by Zoom. In 2025, the threat of amalgamation was a very real and current issue on the Regional Council table. In 2026, attendance by Zoom has jumped to over 60%. My comments were not a criticism of personal grief or private circumstances. They were a professional assessment of how an elected representative is fulfilling an important public responsibility at a time when’s Pelham’s voice is critical.
Virtual attendance has an important place in modern public service, particularly when circumstances genuinely prevent someone from being physically present. But it should be the exception rather than the norm. Our community’s voice at Regional Council is facing significant uncertainty, whether through potential amalgamation or weighted voting that could give greater influence to Niagara’s larger urban cities. In that environment, being physically present matters. Relationships matter. Being able to speak directly with colleagues, understand competing perspectives, advocate for our community and build the trust necessary to have our concerns heard matters.
The issue that was raised is whether residents can reasonably expect their elected representative to be consistently present and actively engaged in the role they were elected to perform. That is a legitimate conversation about public service, accountability, and representation, and it should remain focused on those principles. Elections can be challenging for everyone involved, but I believe our community benefits most when the discussion remains respectful, professional, and centered on leadership, vision, and the outcomes we hope to achieve together.
My speech from the forum is also available online in entirety at: Meet the Candidates Forum – Speech – Frank Adamson for Pelham Mayor
