Category Archives: Open Air Position 2026 Candidates

Candidates’ answers to the question: As you know, Open Air remains a contentious issue, especially because of Councillor Crain’s motion to not revisit it until the end of this term.

Will you remove barriers that deny people with disabilities equal access to the community when streets are closed during Open Air weekends?

What are the candidates’ position on Open Air? Stephanie Pouget-Papak

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Question: As you know, Open Air remains a contentious issue, especially because of Councillor Crain’s motion to not revisit it until the end of this term. 

Will you remove barriers that deny people with disabilities equal access to the community when streets are closed during Open Air weekends?

Stephanie POuget-Papak answer: Thank you for your patience as I work through my emails.

Open Air is a contentious issue that has left our community divided. The answer to your question is not as simple as “yes” or “no.” I have had the opportunity to experience Open Air from several different perspectives:

– As a family member: I have visited the downtown with my family and enjoyed the activities.

– As someone enjoying an evening out: I have experienced the restaurant scene with my spouse and had positive experiences.

– As a historian: I designed the Sunday Heritage Tours and led several Coffee and Culture discussions that received positive feedback from both tourists and local residents.

– As a business owner (speaking only from my own experience): I witnessed a decline in daytime visitation, difficulties for some seniors in accessing the building, and the financial impact that accompanied those challenges.

– Through an accessibility lens: Having had to learn how to walk again at age 15 following bilateral knee surgery, I understand that accessibility needs are not always visible. There are still days when I experience mobility challenges, and the lack of nearby parking had at times made it difficult for me to reach my former workplace, forcing me to work from home or take the day off. I think people sometimes forget that not everyone with accessibility needs qualifies for, or has, an accessible parking permit.

– As a citizen: I have also experienced the frustration of being unable to access side streets and becoming stuck in traffic on the main road when trying to run unexpected errands.

I have seen the benefits that Open Air brings in the evenings, particularly for our restaurants. These businesses employ many local youth and contribute to job creation in our community. In the tourism and hospitality sector, the revenue generated during peak season often helps businesses survive the slower off-season months. When businesses remain strong, they contribute to the tax base, which helps reduce pressure on residential property taxes.

This weekend I spoke with a family whose grandparent uses a wheelchair. They told me that they look forward to visiting downtown during Open Air because it helps their loved one “get out of the house” and enjoy being around people. At the same time, I recognize that not everyone has the support of a caregiver or the same ability to navigate the event comfortably.

I believe our lived experiences shape our opinions, needs, and emotions. Because of that, Open Air is unlikely ever to be an issue on which everyone agrees completely.

Would I advocate for eliminating Open Air? No. However, I also do not believe the current model fully reflects the diverse needs of our community. I think it can be improved in ways that better support accessibility while continuing to benefit businesses, tourists, and residents who enjoy the program.

Realistically, any new or long-term decision should be informed by a review of the 2026 season’s data, including attendance, economic impact, accessibility concerns, and associated costs. With that in mind, here are a few ideas worth exploring (not promises):

– Keep the same number of weekends, but limit closures to Friday and Saturday evenings, when foot traffic is highest.

– Convert Dalhousie Street to one-way traffic during Open Air, allowing one lane for restaurant patios and the other for accessible drop-off and pick-up areas, subject to safety and cost assessments.

– Reduce the overall number of Open Air weekends to create a stronger concentration of activity and demand, although this option may not adequately address the accessibility concerns being raised.

With more than 23,000 residents, we have more than 23,000 different needs and perspectives. My challenge is not to choose one group over another, but to find a balanced approach that supports accessibility, local businesses, (in this case) tourism, families, youth, elderly, and the overall well-being of the community.

I would be interested in hearing your personal experience and what specifically makes Open Air difficult for you to navigate (for example, the parking, walking, distance etc…) this could help form a better argument should the opportunity arise.

Thank you again for reaching out and sharing your concerns.

Candidates that haven’t answered yet:

Molly Allaire
Frank Cerasa

What are the candidates’ position on Open Air? Saurabh Katara

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Question: As you know, Open Air remains a contentious issue, especially because of Councillor Crain’s motion to not revisit it until the end of this term. Will you remove barriers that deny people with disabilities equal access to the community when streets are closed during Open Air weekends?

Saurabh Katara:

Thank you for reaching out and for asking this important question.

Yes—I will work to remove barriers that deny people with disabilities equal access to the community when streets are closed for Open Air. Open Air is valuable to our community, and accessibility should be part of it—not something residents have to give up for the event to work.

I’m not going to pretend I already know the exact operational solution without first understanding the barriers people are experiencing. During the campaign, I intend to speak directly with residents affected by these closures so I understand what changes would make the biggest difference.

Candidates that have not answered yet are listed below. I emphasize yet since Lena Lazanja incorrectly stated, “I would appreciate you removing my/other candidates names from a “did not respond” section.

As I informed Lazanja, I listed “candidates that haven’t answered to date.”

Candidates that haven’t answered yet:

Molly Allaire
Frank Cerasa
Stephanie Pouget-Papak

What are the candidates’ position on Open Air? Dhaval Prajapati

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Sometimes they play favourites and don’t answer my questions. But I’m continuing the 2014 tradition. For now, I’m only asking about Open Air and will set aside a page just for their Open Air answers – IF they answer.

the burg watch: As you know, Open Air remains a contentious issue, especially because of Councillor Crain’s motion to not revisit it until the end of this term. Will you remove barriers that deny people with disabilities equal access to the community when streets are closed during Open Air weekends?

Dhaval Prajapati: Open Air is clearly an issue that many residents care about. In speaking with people throughout the community, I’ve heard both sides. Some enjoy the atmosphere and activity it brings downtown, while others have concerns that they feel need to be addressed.

As someone running for council, I think it’s important to listen to the people affected, understand the different perspectives, and take the time to review the facts before forming a position.

One of the reasons I am running is because I believe residents want to feel heard and involved in decisions that affect their community. My approach would be to keep those conversations open, listen carefully, and make informed decisions based on what I hear and learn.

What are the candidates’ position on Open Air? Tony Pietrangelo

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Sometimes they play favourites and don’t answer my questions. But I’m continuing the tradition I started in 2014. For now, I’m only asking about Open Air and will set aside a page just for their Open Air answers – IF they answer.

the burg watch: As you know, Open Air remains a contentious issue, especially because of Councillor Crain’s motion to not revisit it until the end of this term. Will you remove barriers that deny people with disabilities equal access to the community when streets are closed during Open Air weekends?

Tony Pietrangelo: As you know I am on AAAC and want nothing more than to help people living with disabilities in Amherstburg.
I have registered to run for town council in our next election. That will be my way of getting things accomplished in a way that is beneficial to all. My insights into accessibility will help me help others. 

the burg watch: You didn’t answer the question. And what, specifically, will accomplish?

Tony Pietrangelo: If I get elected I will help you in any way I can.

the burg watch: You’re not answering the question: Will you remove barriers that deny people with disabilities equal access to the community when streets are closed during Open Air weekends? 

2 weeks later, June 10.

the burg watch: You haven’t answered my original question so maybe you can answer this one: did the Accessibility Committee identify any barriers at Open Air? It’s a simple yes or no question.

What are the candidates’ position on Open Air? Chris Gibb

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Sometimes they play favourites and don’t answer my questions. But I’m continuing the tradition I started in 2014. For now, I’m only asking about Open Air and will set aside a page just for their Open Air answers – IF they answer.

the burg watch: As you know, Open Air remains a contentious issue, especially because of Councillor Crain’s motion to not revisit it until the end of this term. Will you remove barriers that deny people with disabilities equal access to the community when streets are closed during Open Air weekends?

Chris Gibb: As the town’s Accessibility Committee has not identified any barriers, I would need you to be more specific and advise me as to which barriers you have identified. I would then be able to address your concerns.

note: I delegated to council on Open Air barriers; I’ve submitted over a dozen emails to council members and I’ve written several letters to the editor about the exclusion.

the burg watch: Would you direct me to the minutes of Accessibility committee meetings where the committee did not identify any barriers to open air?

Chris Gibb: Sorry but I do not recall the exact date of the particular meeting. Perhaps one of the committee members would be able to help.

the burg watch: I asked Tony Pietrangelo, candidate and accessibility committee member, did the Accessibility Committee identify any barriers at Open Air? It’s a simple yes or no question. 

Pietrangelo did not respond.

NOTE: Gibb answered his wife’s 2022 question about Open Air:

“Personally, I am a huge fan of the Open Air program and I hope to see it continue. I see Open Air as a unique way for the whole “Amherstburg Family” to get together and strengthen our connections with each other, and also develop new connections with new people. If we are going to maintain our small town sense of community as we grow, we have to find ways to gather together and celebrate our fantastic town. We will be seeing a tidal wave of new growth in the next 5 to 10 years with many residents who are new to Amherstburg, if we want to keep our small town charm, we need to have opportunities for those new people to be welcomed into the “Amherstburg Family”, Open Streets is one of those opportunities.”

Open Air barrier follow up with Botsford

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TJ Botsford’s answer to my question about removing Open Air barriers was, “The town of Amherstburg relies on an excellent Accessibility Advisory Committee to look into these matters. It is my understanding that the Accessibility Advisory Committee ensures all events including Open Air are accessible for residents in Amherstburg. If you have concerns, I would suggest that you contact the Accessibility Advisory Committee.”

I reached out on Facebook and followed up with an email:

I asked on your Facebook post about Open Air: what specifically led to your opinion that there is an excellent accessibility committee? Is it your understanding or a fact that the committee ensures all events are accessible?

Botsford: “Residents who wish to serve on the Accessibility Advisory Committee must meet specific eligibility criteria, as required by mandate. It is, therefore, my understanding that those selected possess the knowledge and experience necessary to effectively advise the Town on accessibility barriers and related concerns. I trust that the individuals currently serving on this committee carefully consider the needs of residents and take the time to regularly review and reassess accessibility issues as circumstances and community needs change over time.”

What are the candidates’ position on Open Air? Lena Lazanja

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Sometimes they play favourites and don’t answer my questions. But I’m continuing the tradition I started in 2014. For now, I’m only asking about Open Air and will set aside a page just for their Open Air answers – IF they answer.

the burg watch: As you know, Open Air remains a contentious issue, especially because of Councillor Crain’s motion to not revisit it until the end of this term. Will you remove barriers that deny people with disabilities equal access to the community when streets are closed during Open Air weekends?

Lena Lazanja: In the planning/application stages of public events in Amherstburg, accessibility concerns are addressed by the Accessibility Advisory Committee to ensure that all events (including Open Air) are made accessible for residents/public.

To be clear, to provide “accessibility” (for Open Air) the event organizers should focus on the proactive design and/or modification of products, devices, services, or environments to ensure they can be used equitably by everyone, including people with disabilities.

The purpose of providing an  equitable environment is to remove physical, technological, and systemic barriers, allowing all individuals independent and equal access.
Sometimes, such barriers are not immediately recognized by event planners. For example, socio-ecomomic barriers are often overlooked, due to it being “invisible”.

Many times, barriers are only fully recognized once an event is underway, through lived experience. 

For this reason, it is critical that organizers and committees frequently re-evaluate event plans. refer to the public’s feedback, to fully understand accessibility issues and address them properly, as they come to light.

As a Councillor, I would assume that the Accessibility Advisory Committee was adept at ensuring all events including Open Air are accessible in Amherstburg, because that is their job. However, should new concerns arise, based on evidence and public input, it would be negligent of me if I did not look into the matter further.

Creating and maintaining accessible environments is a team effort, so that everyone is able to enjoy what Amherstburg has to offer.

Linda, I hope this answers your question. 
Also, I would be willing to continue to participate in your blog postings by answering any questions you might have throughout the campaign months ahead. However, I would appreciate you removing my/other candidates names from a “did not respond” section. Campaign time is a very busy time, and sometimes candidates are so inundated with information and requests, that some things slip through the cracks. We are not required to answer blog requests for public posting. Since it is voluntary, I know that we would appreciate not being singled out…as in my case, it makes me appear as though I refuse to reply, rather than a simple oversight.
I appreciate your support on this.
Also, for future reference, my last name is Lazanja (you have misspelled my name on your blog)

the burg watch: I did not include you, as you state, in a “did not respond” section. 

I will not remove your name or other candidates’ names because I reported factually, the “candidates that haven’t answered to date.”

You may not be familiar with my blog but in a 2014 post I acknowledged, “While the candidates have never been obliged to answer, by doing so allows for scrutiny beyond the campaign marketing materials. Some candidates’ answers are thorough, well thought out and responsive; others have ignored requests for specificity and others are misinformed.” 

I will always continue the tradition of naming candidates that aren’t responsive. Readers have a right to know if their concerns will ‘slip through the cracks,’ regardless of the excuse.

I’m sure you can appreciate people not coming to your facebook page and telling you what content you should or should not be sharing with your readers.

I have corrected the misspelling of your name, but I left your misspelling in place – another tradition to record verbatim responses.Answers and questions back from other candidates will be posted in future posts.Candidates that haven’t answered to date:
Frank Cerasa

What are the candidates’ position on Open Air? Bill Petruniak

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Sometimes they play favourites and don’t answer my questions. But I’m continuing the tradition I started in 2014. For now, I’m only asking about Open Air and will set aside a page just for their Open Air answers – IF they answer.

the burg watch: As you know, Open Air remains a contentious issue, especially because of Councillor Crain’s motion to not revisit it until the end of this term. Will you remove barriers that deny people with disabilities equal access to the community when streets are closed during Open Air weekends?

Bill Petruniak: I sent a proposal to council last year as a compromise solution. They did not respond. The reason given is that they could not discuss Open Air until 2027.

I proposed to open up Dalhousie street for one way traffic from North to South and only block off the east vehicle lane. This would allow more parking, access to at least a couple of handicap parking spaces, and make it possible for people who are physically challenged to be dropped off right at Richmond and Dalhousie. I offered to pay for all signage and to even make the sign posts. No reply. This would not satisfy all AODA requirements but at least it would be a start. I asked that a dialogue be started regarding making Richmond more accessible during Open Air but no response either. None of them seem to care. May 25.

Answers and questions back from other candidates will be posted in future posts.

Candidates that haven’t answered to date:
Frank Cerasa

What are the candidates’ position on Open Air? Frank DiPasquale

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Sometimes they play favourites and don’t answer my questions. But I’m continuing the tradition I started in 2014. For now, I’m only asking about Open Air and will set aside a page just for their Open Air answers – IF they answer.

the burg watch: As you know, Open Air remains a contentious issue, especially because of Councillor Crain’s motion to not revisit it until the end of this term. Will you remove barriers that deny people with disabilities equal access to the community when streets are closed during Open Air weekends? May 25.

Frank DiPasquale: yes, will do. May 25.

the burg watch: How will you remove barriers? Haven’t you supported Open Air? May 26.

Frank DiPasquale: Yes I have supported open air . Open Air helped our community through covid, and help redefine Amherstburg. Our community is growing leaps and bounds. Traffic is heavy. It is not wise to shut down streets for entire weekends. If the General Amherst development succeeds can you imagine the bottle necks that will occur. May 26.

Answers and questions back from other candidates will be posted in future posts.
Candidates that haven’t answered to date:

Frank Cerasa

What are the candidates’ position on Open Air? Michael Prue

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Sometimes they play favourites and don’t answer my questions. But I’m continuing the tradition I started in 2014. For now, I’m only asking about Open Air and will set aside a page just for their Open Air answers – IF they answer.

the burg watch: According to the Windsor Star article about Malden Centre Park playground, you said accessible outdoor spaces are important for supporting local families and building community connections. Why did you support Open Air which creates barriers to outdoor spaces? As a mayoral candidate, what is your position on Open Air? May 20. Follow up May 23.

Prue: Open Air is a fully accessible venue, and every effort is made to make it barrier free. As a mayoral candidate I will review the current guidelines for Open Air and vote for appropriate modifications. The new Council – when constituted has this responsibility. May 25.

Answers and questions back from other candidates will be posted in future posts.
Candidates that haven’t answered to date:

Frank Cerasa
Lena Lazanja