April 3, 2025 - The future of Hamilton Bike Share is on the line. On April 9th, Hamilton City Council’s General Issues Committee (GIC) will decide on funding that is essential to keep Bike Share rolling. Without this support, Hamilton risks losing an affordable, accessible, and sustainable transportation option.
The recommendation is that the annual budget be increased by $258,000 for a total of $744,000 to support the operating costs of the Hamilton Bike Share system be approved, endorsed and referred to the 2026 and 2027 Operating Budgets; and that upon approval by Council of the budget enhancement identified, that Council authorizes, directs and delegates authority to the General Manager, Planning and Economic Development Department to execute, on behalf of the City of Hamilton, the necessary agreements to amend and extend the existing contract with the current not-for-profit operator, Hamilton Bike Share Inc., to extend term of the agreement from December 31, 2025 to December 31, 2027.
You can view the City report that will be discussed at the meeting here and check out our summary post on Instagram here.
The City of Hamilton Sustainable Mobility team has prepared a report, but we’re concerned Councillors may not approve the proposed funding model. We encourage Hamiltonians to delegate and speak up for HBS! Keep reading to learn more and act today!
Ways to Take Action
Call Your Councillor / Leave a message
• Ask them how they are supporting Hamilton Bike Share. This is especially crucial if you live in Wards 5-14.
• Find your councillors number here.
Email Your Councillor
• Express your support and ask about their stance on Hamilton Bike Share.
• Find your councillors email here.
• Use our email template here.
Delegate in Person on April 9
• We are aiming for 30+ delegates to speak in favor of Hamilton Bike Share. Anyone of any age can delegate.
• Register for in-person or virtual delegation here. (Registration closes April 8 at noon.)
Scroll down and select General Issues Committee
Where it asks, “Will you be requesting funds from the City?” select No
Where it asks, “Submitting a formal presentation?” select Yes (You can change your mind later.)
Complete the form and click Submit
Submit a Pre-Recorded Delegation
• A great option if you can’t attend in person. Registration closes April 7 at noon.
• Register here.
Scroll down and select General Issues Committee
Complete the form and click Submit
Email your recording to clerk@hamilton.ca
• Note: In-person delegations are more effective. If you’re unsure, you can submit a pre-recorded delegation as a backup. If you decide to delegate in person, just let the Clerk’s Office know before the meeting.
Submit a Letter of Delegation
• Write a short letter about why HBS is important to you or your business.
• Email your letter to clerk@hamilton.ca and specify that it is for the April 9 GIC meeting in support of HBS.
Not Sure What to Say?
• Keep it personal—share YOUR story!
• Include your name and ward
• Explain why and how you use HBS
Sign up to delegate here.
Find your Ward Councillor here.
Our Efforts
Cycle Hamilton has been actively advocating and supporting Bike Share through this period of uncertainty. Read below to familiarize yourself with our efforts so far.
Community Information Sessions:
We hosted two community sessions in February and March to inform local leaders and businesses about the importance of delegating for HBS.
Outreach Efforts:
We have compiled a comprehensive list of businesses, organizations, and members and continue to reach out individually to encourage their support through a delegation.
Meetings with City Officials:
We’ve met with City staff and Councillors to discuss the best ways to advocate for HBS.
For more on Cycle Hamilton please click here.
For more on Hamilton Bike Share please click here.
