Since being elected in 2022, Hamilton City Councillor Ted McMeekin has been a fierce advocate for making significant investments in public safety and recreational infrastructure in Flamborough.
McMeekin recently announced a new combination police and fire station to be built on 12 acres of land at the corner of Highway 6 and Parkside Drive. McMeekin says, “When the building is completed in 2026, it will be the base for 40 police officers and additional full-time firefighters to complement the existing crew. Response times will be enhanced with a deeper sense of the Waterdown-Flamborough community being a more safe and secure place to live, work, and raise a family.”
Additionally, a new Emergency Medical Services building will be constructed adjacent to the police/fire compound. McMeekin adds, “Dispatch will be quicker and more unified to ensure the best possible emergency response times for the community. I recognize the critical role that paramedics play in saving lives and improving health outcomes in emergency situations.”
Investments in recreation
In addition to prioritizing public safety, Councillor McMeekin believes investing in a recreational centre is a priority to promote community health and well-being. The proposed $20 million recreational centre will be built adjacent to the Harry Howell Arena. The centre create a vibrant and inclusive space where individuals and families can engage in leisure activities, community events, and cultural celebrations, fostering a sense of belonging and community pride. Councillor McMeekin says, “These investments not only address immediate needs but also lay the foundation for a healthier community for generations to come.”
Councillor McMeekin’s advocacy for substantial investments in police, fire, paramedics, and a recreational facility reflects a commitment to enhancing public safety and improving the health and quality of life for residents of Flamborough. By prioritizing these essential services, Flamborough can create a safer, healthier, and more vibrant community.
Community Council
Councillor McMeekin believes local residents are the best source to identify and resolve the most pressing issues in the community. He organized a group of 40 caring and committed citizens who meet every other month to discuss issues around road safety, infrastructure, and community services. McMeekin says, “About 54% of the calls I receive in my office relate to traffic safety, speed bumps, and potholes. The Community Council is my commitment to engaging members of the community. If you want to know if the shoe fits, you should ask the person who wears the shoe, not the person who made it.”
Connecting with the community is very important to Ted McMeekin. At a recent meeting organized to discuss policing, about 100 residents attended. The Community Council is a valuable resource offering various perspectives and expertise on matters of local importance. Through regular meetings, the Council can identify areas of improvement.
Upcoming Meetings:
- Thursday, March 28th – Fire and EMS issues (postponed)
- Thursday, April 18th - Good Roads and Safe Streets
McMeekin says, “At these meetings we’re seeing a real engagement in the community. The Community Council provides a platform for residents to voice their concerns, share insights, and offer suggestions regarding public safety and road safety improvements.” To enhance engagement, Councillor McMeekin has encouraged the group to make decisions on how contingency funds are spent. The establishment of the Community Council underscores Councillor McMeekin’s commitment to inclusive and participatory governance and by working together they can effectively address challenges and make tangible improvements that benefit everyone.
Extensive political experience
Councillor Ted McMeekin has extensive political experience. Prior to being elected to Hamilton City Council, he served as an MPP in the former Liberal government at Queen’s Park for 18 years, including 12 years as a cabinet minister in various portfolios. His knowledge and connections can help navigate complex issues from infrastructure development to capital investments in schools.
Two of his other top priorities are building a new public elementary school in the southeast corner of Waterdown and getting the construction of the Waterdown Bypass moving again. Councillor Ted McMeekin says, “I have extensive experience in municipal affairs and community service. I want to take that experience to build a more caring and compassionate city that I love.”
Contact Councillor Ted McMeekin at (905) 546-2713, via email: [email protected] or connect with him online here.