The municipal election results are in, and while not elected, my heart is filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude to you for your consideration and your vote. I want to congratulate incumbent Mayor Marvin Junkin on winning his third term in office, as well as Ward 2 incumbents, Brian Eckhardt and John Wink, on their re-election to Council. I wish them and the new Council, all the absolute best as they continue to lead our Town of Pelham.
Deciding to run in this campaign was a massive undertaking for me, but it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. To the residents of Ward 2 who opened your doors, shared your concerns and offered your encouragement to me on your doorsteps—thank you. My campaign literature and our conversations across the Ward was driven by my deep love for this town.
Throughout this journey, I heard your voices clearly. We talked about the real issues facing Ward 2: the ongoing traffic congestion and safety concerns on Highway 20, the absolute need for careful municipal spending and fair taxation, the pressure to protect our unique tree canopy and the necessity for future development to be handled thoughtfully and fairly. To support our downtown tax paying businesses and community, it is imperative to explore creative ideas for relocating Summerfest (e.g., new Klager Park?) to better manage local impacts so that the experience is positive for ALL parties concerned. I also chose to run to ensure that the voice of my neighbour and fellow taxpayer has not been forgot. While I am disappointed that I will not be representing you in Council to address infrastructure and community matters directly, please know that my commitment to advocating for accountability and the protection of Pelham’s unique identity, especially with the threat of looming amalgamation, remains unchanged.
As a retired schoolteacher, who was born on a small farm, considered the outskirts of Fenwick at the time, my lifelong connection to Pelham inspired me to give Ward 2 residents a true, grassroots choice. I am incredibly proud of the campaign I ran.
Thank you, Ward 2 neighbours, for your warm welcome and your continued belief in our community. Our Town of Pelham is a beautiful place because of the people who make it whole and I look forward to continuing to work alongside you, as your neighbour, to keep Pelham, the heart of Niagara, strong.
With my warmest regards and deepest appreciation,
Barb Rybiak,
2026 past Municipal Candidate for Ward 2 Town of Pelham