Hillier wins appeal over dismissed Charter challenge to Ontario lockdowns
Regional - Staff Writer
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
The Ontario Court of Appeal has overturned a lower court ruling that dismissed former MPP Randy Hillier’s Charter challenge to the province’s COVID-19 lockdown regulations, which were in effect during spring 2021.
The decision, released Monday, allows Hillier to proceed with arguments that Ontario’s public health orders unjustifiably infringed on his right to peaceful assembly under Section 2(c) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Hillier had been ticketed for attending outdoor protests in Kemptville and Cornwall, where he publicly criticized lockdown measures and their broader social impacts. At the time, Ontario prohibited even two people from gathering
outdoors — a restriction not seen in other provinces, which allowed five to 10 people to assemble.
The Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms (JCCF), which is supporting Hillier’s case, said prosecutors in several jurisdictions — including Peterborough, Belleville and Smiths Falls — are awaiting the outcome of the Charter challenge before proceeding with similar charges. Some charges have already been stayed or withdrawn elsewhere in the province.
Hillier discussed the ruling during a podcast with broadcaster Shadoe Davis the following day. He said that leading up to the 2022 Freedom Convoy in Ottawa, he was charged 25 times by the Ontario government “for the audacity of being outside, meeting with peo -
ple, hugging them, shaking hands and opposing COVID mandates.”
He claimed each charge carried a maximum fine of $100,000 and up to a year in jail. He credited the JCCF for being “instrumental in backstopping me in my challenges to COVID.”
Although the JCCF has represented him in Charter-related cases, Hillier said he is representing himself in the criminal proceedings linked to his role in the Ottawa convoy. “But that’s a different story, for a different night,” he said. Hillier said he is “on top of the world because the JCCF and their powerful arguments and advocacy has resulted in the very first Constitutional victory in our courts in Canada over the COVID mandates and lockdowns.”
Continues on page 2
Roundabouts proposed as cost-effective traffic solution for Carleton Place
Carleton Place - Heddy Sorour editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Lanark County staff are proposing to install two new roundabouts in Carleton Place — one at Lake Avenue and another at Townline Road — to deal with projected traffic congestion.
“The conventional approach to expanding twolane arterial roads involves converting them to four lanes. In examining the northern segment of the project from Lake Avenue to Townline Road, significant costs arise from twinning the existing bridges,” said Sean Derouin, manager of public works at the county, in his presentation to county council on March 18.
Instead, the county’s consultant, Bytown Engineering, suggested widening Coleman Street to Lake Avenue to four lanes and installing roundabouts at Lake
Avenue and Townline Road over the next few years.
The rationale is that roundabouts offer better traffic capacity and fewer delays for drivers at intersections, and ultimately are a more affordable solution.
The plan is to install the roundabout at Lake Avenue in 2026, followed by one at Townline Road in 2028.
The Lake Avenue roundabout is estimated to cost approximately $8 million — considerably less than the $25 million needed to twin the McNeely Avenue bridges.
Initial resident reaction on the Living in Carleton Place Facebook page was less than enthusiastic. Several residents commented that the issue is that people don’t know how to use roundabouts in Ontario.
However, Lanark County councillors point out that roundabouts are safer and
more efficient.
“You are never going to have a head-on collision with a roundabout, you’re going to reduce speed, and reduce congestion,” said County Councillor Christa Lowry, mayor of Mississippi Mills.
The town does not have a say in the decision beyond its representation on Lanark County council. Carleton Place Mayor Toby Randell is the current county warden.
“This will not be coming to town council, as the town does not have a say in these projects. These are County of Lanark projects, and it is the approval authority for them. County staff did circulate a copy of their presentation at County Council to town staff, who in turn forwarded the information to town council for
their information,” clarified Diane Smithson, Carleton Place CAO.
There are other benefits to roundabouts, according to Derouin, including easier and faster emergency vehicle access, less idling, smoother traffic flow, and encouragement of active transportation. A public session will be convened and publicized before the project receives final approval.
Randy Hillier celebrates a major win as the Ontario Court of Appeal rules COVID-19 lockdowns restricting peaceful assembly were unconstitutional. Photo credit: Screengrab.
A rendition of proposed roundabout at McNeely Avenue and Lake Avenue. Photo credit: Screengrab.
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Jonsson's ALMONTE & SMITHS FALLS
Regional - Staff writer editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Red dresses will once again sway in the spring breeze at the Smiths Falls bandstand — each a haunting symbol of the Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people who are missing or murdered.
Hosted by Flora Mesher Riley, this year’s eighth annual Red Dress Day cere-
mony takes place Saturday, May 10 at 2 p.m., in the same public space where dozens of red garments hung in silent tribute last year.
For Riley, the event is deeply personal. A native of Paradise River, N.L., her Inuit roots are woven through the stories she shares — including the tragic loss of her sister, Daphne Mesher Brown, who was murdered
Letter from the Publisher: What does ‘support local’ really mean anymore?
We hear it everywhere: “Support local.” It’s on shop signs, in council speeches, on social media, and in every small business campaign worth its salt. And it’s a message we at Hometown News believe in — deeply.
But lately, I find myself asking: what does supporting local actually look like?
Because if we’re being honest, the landscape for local media has changed dramatically. Fewer people pick up a paper these days. Readers want immediacy, relevance, and the kind of engagement that only digital platforms can provide. We’ve adapted. We’ve built a strong online presence, a large following on social media, a well-read weekly newsletter, and a website updated daily — all created right here in Lanark County, by people who live here and care deeply about our communities.
Our monthly print edition is just one part of that evolving ecosystem. It’s supported by timely stories online, vibrant community conversations on social media, and local news that reflects the heart of this region — from Westport to Perth, Smiths Falls to Carleton Place, Mississippi Mills, and several villages in between.
While we’re not the only media outlet serving this area, Hometown News is the only locally based print newspaper east of the Village of Lanark. Our team lives here, works here, and genuinely cares about what happens across all of Lanark County. We know the backstories, we recognize the faces in the crowds, and we take our responsibility to local journalism seriously. Yet when it comes to municipal advertising and communications — the
kind that helps keep local media alive — we often find ourselves overlooked. Sometimes, in favour of publications with no meaningful ties to this region, and in some cases, with histories that should raise questions.
We're not asking for charity. We’re asking for alignment.
If your messaging is “support local,” then that needs to extend beyond shopping and into the communications strategies that reflect who we are as a community. When taxpayer dollars fund advertising, those dollars should be spent in a way that genuinely benefits local economies, fosters trust, and amplifies real voices from within.
Because what we print — and post, and publish — isn't filler between ads. It’s the fabric of our towns: your neighbours' stories, your
local businesses, your council meetings, your hockey games, your milestones. We’re proud to be part of this community. We’re proud of our team, our writers, and the work we do. And we’ll keep doing it — but we’d like to know that the communities we serve are willing to stand behind us in more than just words. Thank you for reading, and for continuing to believe in the power of local stories.
Supporting local means all local. Even — especially — your local newsroom.
Patricia
Krotki Publisher, Hometown News
Red dresses will drift again in Smiths Falls
a tribute to lives lost and voices raised
more than 50 years ago.
“This is about remembering all of them — my sister, Loretta Saunders, and so many more,” Riley said. “We use our voices for those who no longer have one.”
Red Dress Day is part of a Canada-wide movement launched in 2010 by Métis artist Jaime Black, who began collecting red dresses as a visual reminder of the women and girls who are no longer present. The empty garments represent lives taken and futures lost and are displayed publicly to raise awareness and call for action.
Last year, about 30 people gathered at the bandstand for the ceremony, including members of the Lanark Drum Circle, local emergency services, politi-
cians, and members of the community. Riley offered a heartfelt thanks to the Town of Smiths Falls, her husband Michael, and everyone who made the gathering possible.
Statistics shared by Sgt. David Laviolette of the Indigenous Policing Bureau underline the gravity of the issue: Indigenous women are six times more likely to be victims of homicide than non-Indigenous women in Canada.
In 2022, they represented over 26 per cent of female homicide victims.
Youth are at even greater risk, with Indigenous female youth 3.1 times more likely to experience violent victimization.
This year, the ceremony will again feature smudg-
ing, song, and personal storytelling — all intended to create space for grief, healing, and resolve.
Riley began hosting private Red Dress events at her home in Montague seven years ago. In 2023, she chose to bring it to the heart of town.
“I wanted more people to see it, to understand,” she said. And so, on Saturday, the dresses will rise again — stark red against the green of the trees, the blue of the sky, and the silence that begs us to listen.
Hillier wins appeal over dismissed Charter challenge to Ontario lockdowns
Continued from page 1
In 20 of the 25 jurisdictions, Hillier said the Crown withdrew or stayed the charges. “The remaining five would not budge,” he said. “They wanted their pound of flesh from me.” He said he wasn’t going to back down: “It was going to be ‘withdraw, or piss off.’” His defence included
four expert reports, notably one by Dr. Kevin Bardosh, who detailed the negative impacts of prolonged lockdowns on Canadians’ mental and physical health, including increased rates of depression, suicidal ideation, substance use and unemployment.
Hillier had initially lost his case in November 2023, when Ontario Superior Court Justice Joseph Callaghan ruled against the
Publisher: Patricia Krotki
Charter challenge. According to the Justice Centre, Callaghan dismissed Bardosh’s evidence, stating without explanation that he was “not a public health expert,” and did not engage with the report’s data on lockdown-related harms.
Hillier filed a notice of appeal in December, arguing that Justice Callaghan erred in applying the Oakes test — a three-part framework used to determine whether a
Charter infringement can be justified in a free and democratic society. The appeal focused on whether the regulations minimally impaired Hillier’s Charter rights.
“It is refreshing to see a court do its job of protecting our Charter freedoms by holding government to a high standard,” said JCCF president John Carpay. “There was no science behind Ontario’s total ban on all outdoor protests.”
Hillier also faced criminal charges in March 2022 in connection with the Ottawa convoy protest. He was charged with nine offences, including assaulting a peace officer and obstructing a public official. In November 2024, those charges were stayed due to delays in the court process.
Next steps
According to the JCCF, the case will now return to a lower court for a full hearing on the merits of the Charter challenge (jccf.ca). The court will examine whether Ontario’s lockdown rules in 2021 unjustifiably violated the constitutional right to peaceful assembly. The outcome of this hearing could influence outstanding cases in jurisdictions where prosecutors have put charges on hold pending the results. No date has been set for the next stage of the proceedings.
Photo credit: Laurie Weir.
Your candidates for Leeds– Grenville–Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes
Regional - Staff writer
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Canadians return to the polls on April 28 in a snap federal election called by Prime Minister Mark Carney. Advance polls are open from April 18 to 21 — falling over the Easter weekend — and voter information cards are now in the mail.
In the riding of Leeds— Grenville—Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, voters will decide who will represent them in Parliament. On the ballot:
• Conservative Party of Canada: Michael Barrett (incumbent)
• Liberal Party of Canada: Lorna Jean (LJ) Edmonds
• New Democratic Party: Paul Lancione
• Green Party of Canada: Randi Ramdeen Michael Barrett is the Conservative incumbent, first elected in a 2018 by-election after the passing of long-time MP Gord Brown. He has since won re-election in both 2019 and 2021. A former coun-
Meet your 2025 federal election candidates for Lanark–Frontenac
Regional - Staff writer
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Canadians will head to the polls on April 28 for a snap federal election, triggered by Prime Minister Mark Carney.
In the newly redrawn riding of Lanark—Frontenac, voters will choose their next Member of Parliament following national electoral boundary changes that carved Kingston-area communities out of the former Lanark—Frontenac—Kingston district. The revised riding now spans rural parts of both Lanark and Frontenac counties.
Advance polls open April 18 and run through April 21. Voter information cards have been mailed.
Three candidates are officially on the ballot:
• Conservative Party of Canada: Scott Reid (incumbent)
• Liberal Party of Canada: Michelle Foxton
• New Democratic Party: Danielle Rae Scott Reid has represented this region since 2000 and is seeking another term under the Conservative banner. With more than two decades on the Hill, Reid has worn many hats, including Chair of the Conservative Caucus, Deputy Government House Leader, and Chair of the Subcommittee on International Human Rights. Outside politics, he's Chair of the Board of Governors for Giant Tiger, the family-run retail chain. He lives in Perth. Michelle Foxton , the Liberal challenger, brings 25 years of legal experience as a lawyer and per diem Crown Attorney. She was elected the youngest councillor in South Frontenac Township during the 1998 ice storm. Fox-
ton now runs her own law practice and remains active in local organizations like the Fort Henry Guard Foundation and Hartington Community Association. Her priorities include tackling climate change, supporting rural economies, and improving healthcare. She lives in Hartington with her husband and two children.
Danielle Rae, representing the NDP, hails from Pakenham. She holds political science degrees from the University of Ottawa and McGill, with a specialization in Middle Eastern politics. Rae has worked on several NDP campaigns in Ottawa and now splits her time between jobs as a legal assistant and restaurant worker. She's focused on affordable housing, rural infrastructure, and building stronger grassroots support across the riding.
cillor in Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal, Barrett previously served in the Canadian Armed Forces as a telecommunications lineman and later worked in human resources. In Ottawa, he’s held key roles in the Official Opposition, including Shadow Minister for Ethics and Health, Deputy Opposition House Leader, and Co-Chair of Question Period Planning. He lives in Spencerville with his wife and children.
LJ Edmonds, the Liberal candidate, brings more than three decades of experience in education and global health, including senior roles like Vice Provost of Global Affairs at Ohio University. She was raised in Ottawa and Pike Lake near Westport, and now calls Hartington home. Edmonds holds degrees from Queen’s University, the University of Ottawa, and a PhD from the University of East Anglia. A mother and grandmother, she is focused on strengthening rural communities and advancing a sustainable, secure future for Canadians.
Paul Lancione, running
for the NDP, is a recent graduate of the University of Toronto with an Honours BA. He currently works in the financial services sector. Lancione is advocating for economic recovery, job protection, and stronger support for vulnerable populations. He backs NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh’s worker-first platform and is pushing for more government accountability and results-driven policy.
Randi Ramdeen, repre-
senting the Green Party, was born in Prescott and studied in Brockville, with strong ties to the region. She has previously run for the Greens at both the federal and provincial levels. Ramdeen is a passionate advocate for the environment, social justice, and equity, with a background in diversity and inclusion. Her priorities include sustainability, empowering marginalized voices, and creating a more equitable society for all.
Conservative Party of Canada Scott Reid
Liberal Party of Canada Michelle Foxton
New Democratic Party Danielle Rae
Conservative Party of Canada Michael Barrett
New Democratic Party Paul Lancione
Liberal Party of Canada Lorna Jean (LJ) Edmonds
Green Party of Canada Randi Ramdeen
Smiths Falls fire chief hopes to reignite automatic aid agreement
Smiths Falls - Laurie Weir editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Can a new fire service agreement for automatic aid be reignited between neighbours?
Smiths Falls fire Chief Rick Chesebrough is hoping to negotiate a new fire services agreement with the Township of Rideau Lakes after the township announced it would end its $82,000 annual contract in December this year for automatic aid.
The decision to cancel the agreement followed the opening of Rideau Lakes’ new fire station on Otter Lake Road, which provides closer coverage for areas mutually served by Smiths Falls. While the mutual aid agree-
ment will remain in place, the automatic aid contract— which ensured Smiths Falls responded automatically to emergencies in South Elmsley Ward—will not be renewed. Unlike mutual aid, where assistance is requested on a case-by-case basis, automatic aid ensures immediate response based on predetermined coverage areas. This system has been in place for nearly 20 years.
Even though the town received 12 months’ notice of termination, Chesebrough told Smiths Falls council on Monday, March 23, that he remains hopeful an alternative agreement can be reached.
Mayor Shawn Pankow expressed openness to a modified arrangement. “Just
recognizing the merits of having the closest fire service respond to calls, when you think of Rideau Lakes, it’s on our borders,” Pankow said.
Smiths Falls Fire Department responded to 73 calls in Rideau Lakes in 2018. That number dropped to 67 in 2019 and has averaged 50 calls annually over the next four years. In 2024, there were 58 calls. He spoke of a recent life-threatening situation where a person in Rideau Lakes was helped by the Smiths Falls Fire Department — who was there first — after a call for help. It could have ended tragically if not for the automatic aid of the SFFD.
Chesebrough stressed that Rideau Lakes residents near the Smiths Falls border should continue to receive timely service. He said a modified automatic aid agreement could be beneficial, ensuring that fire crews respond based on proximity. “We can’t just go out there without an agreement or without the endorsement of council,” he noted.
The fire chief also said during a meeting last December that they’re looking to replace its 31-year-old tanker truck at a cost of $800,000
Carleton Place updates procurement policy to favour Canadian suppliers
Carleton Place - Heddy SorOur editorial@pdgmedia.ca
At its March 25 committee of the whole meeting, Carleton Place council approved updates to the town’s procurement policy, aligning it with recent efforts to buy Canadian in response to cross-border trade tensions.
“You’ve already passed a motion about shopping Canadian, due to the tariffs, so this is timely,” said Trisa McConkey, the town’s treasurer.
The previous policy was last updated in 2017, and as McConkey noted, it was well past time for a refresh.
One of the key changes makes mid-level purchases “invitational only” rather than open to a broad international field.
“So, we can ask Canadian or local suppliers to provide quotes. We still get a competitive process but don’t have to open it up to Korea or the U.S.,” McConkey explained.
New language has also been added to exclude trade partners not acting in good faith. If a country fails to honour trade agreements, its suppliers could be barred from bidding. The policy also promotes participation in group procurement programs, such as those run by the provincial government.
“It should be noted that almost everyone at the municipal and even the state level are up in arms about this too,” said Mayor and Lanark County Warden Toby Randell. “This garbage that’s going on is af-
fecting the U.S. as much as it’s affecting us.”
However, CAO Diane Smithson raised a concern about fire trucks — most of which are manufactured in the U.S. She noted that in such cases, the town may have little choice but to look south of the border.
Council members were largely supportive of the changes but raised flags around upcoming large-scale infrastructure needs, especially the water and wastewater expansion project.
Smithson pointed out that for these major undertakings, the town would issue tenders to general contractors, who would then select their own sub-contractors and suppliers — a step removed from the town’s procurement process.
Another area of concern was staff’s delegated authority to make purchases up to $100,000 without council approval.
“I’d like it highlighted that when we’re looking at more money as a result of federal discourse, that we have the final decision,” said Deputy Mayor Andrew Tennant. “I’m trying to avoid a situation where we delegate authority and it ends up costing us tens of thousands more.”
In response, Smithson committed that any deviation of 10 per cent or more in pricing would trigger a return to council for approval.
She also reassured members that U.S. purchases are minimal. Of the town’s $42 million in total spending
which has been flagged as a liability by fire underwriters. The truck was originally purchased in a cost-sharing agreement with Rideau Lakes, with both municipalities contributing $38,000.
“The cost of our operation there doesn’t even come close to $81,000 for the year,” Chesebrough said at that December meeting. He noted that Rideau Lakes has been “compensated very well” for wear and tear on equipment and staffing costs.
Chesebrough said his department remains committed to exploring a new agreement that serves both municipalities effectively.
When contacted by Hometown News, Rideau Lakes chief administrative officer Shellee Fournier said this was something that would need to be considered by council. “As always, staff would take this type of proposal forward to council for their consideration,” she said.
Rideau Lakes fire Chief
Gene Richardson said he hasn’t spoken with Chesebrough about this yet and can’t say what is on the table as far as a new agreement is concerned. “We still have our mutual aid,” Richardson told this publication on Tuesday morning, regarding coverage of the South Elmsley Ward. “And that doesn’t cost anything.” As far as the expiring automatic aid agreement, Richardson said that would ultimately be council’s decision.
last year, only $12,000 went to U.S. goods.
“We’re trying to do what’s best for Carleton Place in this case,” said Randell. “We don’t have a beef with the 17 states along the border. People on both sides of the border are hurting.”
Rideau Lakes updates emergency response plan
Regional - Laurie Weir
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Rideau Lakes Township is updating its emergency response plan to strengthen preparedness and response measures in case of a crisis.
At a recent municipal services committee meeting, fire Chief Gene Richardson presented the proposed changes, recommending that council repeal the existing plan and adopt a new version.
Key updates include relocating the primary emergency operations centre from the Elgin Municipal Complex to the Chantry municipal office, incorporating volunteer groups into emergency planning, and introducing a disaster recovery strategy for IT systems. The plan also enhances evacuation protocols, details emergency assistance for people with disabilities, and designates a single deputy mayor as the mayor’s alternate instead of using a rotational system.
As part of the updates, council appointed Coun. Deborah Anne Hutchings as the alternate member
for the head of council for the remainder of this term, ensuring stronger oversight of the township’s digital infrastructure and emergency response capabilities.
“If you can teach an old dog a new trick, then I’ll do it,” Hutchings said of her appointment to the municipal emergency control group as an alternate member for the head of council.
Richardson said there is both an online and in-person training component.
“You have to take basic management training, and other training … if there is an emergency and the may-
or isn’t around, then you would be called in,” he said.
Coun. Sue Dunfield asked if the deputy mayor’s position lasts six months, then all members of council should be trained in the emergency response plan.
Chief administrative officer Shellee Fournier said they were looking for one appointee rather than a rotation, for better continuity.
“We’re recommending that it not be the deputy mayor,” she said. “Because the rotation makes it too difficult. Similarly to the county, they don’t accept rotations. They require one
person per term to be alternate to the head.”
Council will also appoint an alternate member to the municipal emergency control group to act on behalf of the head of council when needed. The new plan ensures compliance with provincial emergency management requirements while improving operational clarity and response effectiveness.
The updated emergency response plan was passed by the committee and will move forward for final approval at an upcoming council meeting.
Rideau Lakes fire Chief Gene Richardson (left) and Smiths Falls fire Chief Rick Chesebrough. Photo credit: File photos.
Photo credit: Rideau Lakes Fire and Rescue facebook photo.
Carleton Place posts $7.8M surplus, but council says hold the spending
Carleton Place - Heddy SorOur editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Carleton Place is projecting a $7.8-million surplus for 2024 — a windfall that town staff attribute to both planned and unexpected savings.
These are preliminary results, subject to change following an audit by the town’s external auditors.
“We anticipated that we were going to have a $5.4-million surplus, and half of that was to go into the water and sewer reserve,” town treasurer Trisa McConkey told council.
The funds being funnelled into the water and sewer reserve are earmarked for critical infrastructure work. The town’s underground water and sewer systems were last updated in 1980, largely with support from upper-tier governments. Those pipes, said McConkey, will soon need to be replaced at a projected cost of more than $100 million.
“So we need to be saving money for that — that’s why
we plan for that surplus every year,” she said. “We had also planned to contribute $2.8 million to the asset management reserve, and that’s what we did.”
In addition to the expected surplus, the town realized a further $2.18 million in unexpected funds.
These extra dollars came from several sources, including higher-than-expected bank interest, an unspent child-care grant from the county, unused Community Improvement Plan funds, increased Parks and Recreation revenue due to staffing changes, and a winter control operations surplus from last season.
“I did, as per our reserve policy, have a look at our winter control reserve, but it was already at the target we set, so I didn’t make any more adjustments to that or any of the other operational reserves. I didn’t need to,” said McConkey. She suggested using the unexpected surplus to pay down unfunded debt from a recent land purchase.
But several councillors weren’t ready to commit.
“I don’t like making a financial decision this big not at budget time,” said Deputy Mayor Andrew Tennant. “That’s when we’re weighing things against each other. I personally would like to deposit this unexpected surplus into the strategic reserves and sit on it until budget, and then decide what we would like to do.”
Councillors Jeff Atkinson and Sarah Cavanagh agreed.
“We don’t know what costs will come up between now and then,” said Cavanagh. “As you said, you’re funding the debt internally now, so there’s no real urgency to make a decision in this moment versus a few months from now.”
As per council’s decision, the unexpected reserve will be deposited into the strategic reserve until budget time, which begins in October for council members prior to staff’s budget presentations scheduled for November, according to McConkey.
How much did Rideau Lakes councillors receive in 2024?
More than $200,000 paid to 8 councillors, mayor
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
The remuneration numbers for 2024 are in, revealing that the Township of Rideau Lakes paid its councillors honorariums ranging from $16,387 to $28,368. These amounts do not include additional expenses for training, mileage, or other costs, which totalled nearly $220,000. Here is the breakdown for the eight councillors and the mayor:
Jeff Banks: $17,592 + $632 for benefits, $113 for training and conferences, $2,452 for mileage, $660 for mileage (additional), $18 for other, totalling $21,468. He also received a $490 stipend for his external duties as the RVCA representative, plus
$70 for mileage.
Paula Banks: $16,845 + $1,447 for benefits, $379 for training and conferences, $3,511 for mileage, $19 for other, totalling $22,202.
Linda Carr: $18,288 + $569 for benefits, $1,300 for mileage, $880 for technology, $47 for other, totalling $21,083.
Joan Delaney: $18,981 + $582 for benefits, $140 for training and conferences, $3,214 for mileage, $715 for technology, totalling $23,633. As the council representative for the CRCA, she received $59 for mileage expenses.
Sue Dunfield: $17,749 + $578 for benefits, $2,870 for training and conferences, $3,701 for mileage, $660 for technology, $19 for other, totalling $26,580.
Rideau Lakes approves speed sign installation at Chaffey’s Lock
Regioanl - Laurie Weir editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Rideau Lakes municipal services committee has approved traffic calming measures for Chaffey’s Lock, opting to request Parks Canada to purchase a digital speed sign while township staff complete the installation.
Deborah Anne Hutchings: $18,749 + $578 for benefits, $1,713 for training and conferences, $614 for mileage, $220 for technology, $19 for other, totalling $21,895.
Marcia Maxwell: $16,387 + $532 for benefits, $258 for training and conferences, $2,689 for mileage, $110 for technology, $19 for other, totalling $19,997.
Ron Pollard: $18,288 + $569 for benefits, $3,569 for mileage, $825 for technology, totalling $23,250.
Mayor Arie Hoogenboom: $28,386 + $766 for benefits, $172 for training and conferences, $8,054 for mileage, $1,176 for technology, $84 for other, totalling $38,640.
Coun. Jeff Banks inquired about the mayor’s payout from the United Counties of Leeds Grenville. Township acting treasurer Dave Schur said that information is available through the county, not the township.
Schur noted that the mayor and councillor honorariums, along with expenses for meetings, conferences, mileage, and technology/ connectivity, are governed by Council Bylaw 2018-18. The bylaw also includes a schedule of stipends.
The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority and the Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority provided remuneration and expenses to the appointed councillors for attending meetings of their respective boards.
At the Monday, March 23 municipal services committee meeting, staff presented three options to address safety concerns raised by Parks Canada over vehicle speeds near the lock station. Council selected Option 2, which involves reducing the speed limit and installing a digital speed sign at no cost to the township.
Parks Canada staff expressed concerns about vehicles crossing the locks at high speeds, endangering workers and pedestrians.
Township staff met onsite to discuss solutions, which included speed reductions and new signage.
Under the approved plan, the speed limit will be lowered from 50 km/h to 20 km/h between 1752 and
1776 Opinicon Rd. It will remain at 50 km/h from 1776 Opinicon Rd. to Indian Lake Rd., where there is high pedestrian and cycling traffic from the Cataraqui Trail. A digital speed sign will be installed between 1752 and 1776 Opinicon Rd. to alert drivers as they approach the locks.
Staff also explored the possibility of installing speed bumps or humps, which would be temporary and re-
moved in the fall for snow removal. However, council opted against this measure, as it would have required additional budget considerations of $4,000 to $5,300. Several years ago, a temporary speed bump was installed at this location but was stolen after only a few days. The digital speed sign installation was approved and will move forward following final council approval.
Regional - Laurie Weir
Township of Rideau Lakes municipal offices. Photo credit: Laurie Weir.
Rideau Lakes Township’s municipal services committee has approved traffic calming measures for Chaffey’s Lock after a request from Parks Canada to purchase a digital speed sign. Township staff will complete the installation. Photo credit: Screengrab.
Childcare closure and new subdivision discussed at Carleton Place council
Carleton Place - Heddy Sorour
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
From taking a stand on international trade to endorsing staff-friendly policy shifts and approving long-awaited housing developments, Carleton Place council powered through a hefty March 25 agenda with a focus on local and national priorities.
Elbows Up
The Town of Carleton Place is throwing its support behind Team Canada
in the face of U.S. tariffs.
At its March 25 meeting, council passed a motion echoing Lanark County’s stance, pledging to adopt a buy-Canadian approach, support reciprocal measures taken by provincial and federal governments, back efforts to reduce interprovincial trade barriers, and request that the province remove regulatory roadblocks that prevent municipalities from favouring Canadian companies.
“We’re expressing our support for all of Canada with the ongoing tariffs on Canadian goods. Let’s hope cooler heads prevail and that the tariffs, which truly support nobody — not Canadians and not Americans — end sooner rather than later,” said Mayor Toby Randell. “Let’s get our house in order, get interprovincial trade going, and support each other through the vast goods, services and natural resources Canada
already has here at home.”
New Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan Adopted Council adopted a new Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan following a presentation by Stephanie Gray, coordinator of the Lanark County Situation Table. The plan, which involves 36 partner organizations, is regional in scope. Once approved by all participating municipalities and Smiths Falls, an action plan will be developed for implementation over the next four years.
“The implementation plan will break down tasks more specifically for each municipality or sector. Anything we plan will benefit the whole region,” said Gray.
Childcare Services to Add Summer Closure
Beginning in 2026, Carleton Place Childcare Services will implement a one-week summer closure, proposed for the week before the August long weekend. The move is intended to guarantee summer time off for staff, achieve cost savings, and allow for maintenance and upgrades when no children or staff are present.
Facility manager Tracey Freill noted that since 2011, the only annual
closure has been between Christmas and New Year’s, a time when contractors are also typically off.
“The closure has been vetted through Human Resources. Several daycares in the area have closure weeks — it’s not uncommon,” she said.
The proposal has overwhelming support, with 96 per cent of staff in favour.
“I think anytime you get 96 per cent of any group agreeing on something, you’re doing something right,” said Randell. “The idea of facility upgrades as well is a great use of the time, and we’re giving users a full year and a bit of notice — which is ample.”
Coleman Subdivision Moves Forward
After more than a decade of waiting, the Coleman Subdivision is finally entering into an agreement with the town.
“We’ve got 101 units total, we have a contract that’s pretty much ready to be signed,” said Niki Dwyer, director of development services.
Originally given draft approval in August 2012, the subdivision faced 56 conditions to be satisfied, and has gone through five renewals. Most have now been met, with just one Mississippi Valley Con-
servation Authority condition remaining.
Deputy Mayor Andrew Tennant raised concerns about traffic impacts during construction, especially given the simultaneous work on the Lepine building nearby.
“We’re still going back and forth on what our preferred routing is, and we’re trying to minimize traffic on Henry. We will continue to monitor when traffic is heaviest and work out the best route,” said Dwyer.
Construction is expected to begin within weeks.
Council Remuneration Report Released
Carleton Place treasurer Trisa McConkey has completed the town’s annual council remuneration report, which is available to the public on the municipal website. The report is a provincial requirement and lists each councillor’s honorarium and any expenses claimed in the course of their duties.
“For those that do a deep dive, you might notice council expenses — Andrew Tennant and myself charge expenses at the county first and then it comes to the municipality, and that’s the difference,” said Randell, who also serves as Lanark County Warden.
Photo credit: Submitted.
community
RJ McLaren Ball Diamond renovation scores, despite budget bunt
Carleton place - Heddy Sorour editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Continuing with the rehabilitation of the RJ McLaren Ball Diamond, the Town of Carleton Place is preparing to install a new fence this year ahead of the ball season. Last year, the town worked on the infield, replacing the hard, compacted crushed stone with a baseball mix. The fencing is a continuation of that work.
“The work at the ballpark was designed to take place over two years. This would allow us not to interrupt the users’ season by trying to accomplish everything at once,” Mayor Toby Randell told Hometown News.
The ball diamond is a well-used town asset, primarily for softball and lob ball leagues, but is also used by the town at times as an extension for events
held at Riverside Park. The high school also uses the space on occasion for physical education classes, Randell explained.
“The diamond is used four to five nights per week and on weekends for tournaments,” said Joanne Henderson, manager of recreation and culture.
Built in the late ’70s, the McLaren Ball Diamond has been in constant use since, Henderson said. The existing fencing is more than 40 years old, just four feet high, and was showing its age.
“A six-foot chain link fence will be installed with yellow premium-grade poly cap. The backstop will be re-fenced, and mesh will be added to the top of the backstop,” Henderson told Hometown News.
The new fencing will cost just under $68,500. The town had originally budget-
ed $50,000 for the project.
“The prices came in higher than what we had budgeted,” Henderson told council at the committee of the whole on March 25. “We were fortunate to recover some funds from participating groups that did some fundraising.”
The Carleton Place Civitan Club, the Arena Staff Association, and a group of ball users raised a total of $5,411 through various initiatives. Added to the original budget, this brings the total to $55,411, requiring a budget deviation of just over $13,000. That amount will be drawn from parkland reserves.
The town received two bids for the work and will award the contract to Troy Property Maintenance—a company the town has not previously worked with.
“We had a recommenda-
Perth council pay for 2024 revealed
Perth - LAURIE WEIR
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Perth councillors collectively earned more than $179,000 in salaries, expenses and per diems in 2024, according to a mandatory annual report tabled at the April 8 council meeting.
Mayor Judy Brown topped the list with $35,957.76, including nearly $35,000 in base pay and $664 in expenses.
Deputy Mayor Ed McPherson followed
with $28,509.08, while Coun. David Bird came in third at $25,185.07, including over $6,000 in reimbursed expenses.
Coun. Gary Waterfield billed the most in per diems at $1,125, and also submitted an additional hotel expense of $1,432.10 for an AMO conference. The lowest-paid member of council was Coun. Barry Smith, with a total of $19,654.64.
Coun. Isobel Anne McRae: $24,415.60, includes
$18,913.70 salary, $675 in per diems, and $4,826.90 in expenses, and Coun. Jim Boldt: $21,890.27, which includes $18,913.70 salary, $675 in per diems, and $2,301.57 in expenses.
Under Ontario’s Municipal Act, municipalities must publicly report council remuneration and expenses by March 31 each year.
The report was received for information only, with no changes proposed to the current pay structure.
tion from the Township of Lanark Highlands. [Troy] had done some projects for them, and they highly recommended the company,” said Henderson.
According to Henderson, there’s a bit of a time crunch to get the fencing installed.
The area will be used as a
staging ground for construction upgrades to the Water Filtration Plant, and the fence must be completed before that work begins.
The only other bid came from Cavanagh Construction, at more than $80,000.
“Under the current circumstances, with every-
thing coming in more expensive than anticipated, the users have contributed funds, so this is another collaboration that gets things done,” Randell said.
“This is an asset that’s heavily used, and it’s not a large sum. So, it’s a good expenditure at this time.”
Fast Eddie’s to demolish home in Rideau Lakes due to contamination
Regional - Laurie Weir editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Rideau Lakes Township is set to demolish a home it purchased for nearly $1 million last year after discovering contaminated water linked to the nearby Portland Landfill Site on Old Kingston Road. The demolition marks the latest step in addressing long-standing environmental concerns affecting neighbouring properties.
Fast Eddie’s Auto Recycling submitted the winning bid for the teardown at $30,000 plus the township’s portion of HST.
The property, a log home built by Gerald and Brenda Haughian in 1980, sits on a four-acre waterfront lot downhill from the nowclosed landfill. Water testing in 2012 revealed elevated levels of alkalinity, boron, hardness, nitrate, manganese and
total dissolved solids, exceeding provincial regulations. By 2018, the Ministry of the Environment and Parks informed the Haughians that their well water contained high levels of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of persistent and potentially harmful chemicals.
In response, the township installed a water treatment system, and the Haughians relied on bottled water for years. However, with continued pressure from the ministry, the township and the homeowners reached a purchase agreement last year for nearly $1 million. The couple has since relocated near Lanark.
At the March 23 municipal services committee meeting, Coun. Sue Dunfield raised concerns about the removal of contamination and oversight during the demolition.
Steve Holmes, the township’s manager of parks and facilities, clarified that contamination on-site is limited to asbestos in sink glazing and silica-containing materials in plaster, cement and masonry. “They will just put the sink in a bag and take it off-site,” he explained, adding that Fast Eddie’s has the necessary equipment to process and transport silica materials safely.
Holmes also confirmed that he intends to be on-site during the demolition.
The $30,000 cost will be pre-approved in the township’s 2025 budget, with final approval pending at an upcoming council meeting.
An environmental report on the property by Skootamatta Environmental Consulting Inc. is available for public review on the township’s website.
Carleton Place extends validity of development permits to 7 years
Carleton Place - Heddy Sorour editorial@pdgmedia.ca
The Town of Carleton Place is going ahead with a development permit bylaw amendment that largely addresses the length of time a development permit remains valid without renewal.
The amendments to the bylaw were posted on the town’s website, and a public meeting was held in March, but the town received no feedback from the public or any agencies on the nature of the amendments.
In the past, development permits were only valid for one year, with a maximum
six-month extension.
“From the date that council makes a decision to grant an application, the applicant will now have up to three years to clear all the conditions that we levy and execute the development agreement,” said Niki Dwyer, director of development services.
After three years, applicants may renew their permit for one year, up to a total of seven years from the date of initial approval.
“We did have a discussion with legal, and Diane [Smithson, chief administrative officer] and I agreed that it’s probably in the best interest of the town to have
a limiting period at some point,” said Dwyer. If a developer reaches the end of that seven-year period, they would be able to reapply for a development permit, and council would adjudicate its fit for the community. Dwyer noted that if a development permit didn’t have a limiting period at all, and the official plan changed, or development charges changed, or social factors changed, a 15-yearold permit may no longer be a good fit for the community. Having a limiting period allows council to review an application that’s been in the works for a while.
A facelift if coming for McLaren Ball Diamond. Photo credit: Submitted.
Leisure Days boosts Old Home Week support with major donation
Smiths Falls - Laurie Weir
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
The Smiths Falls Old Home Week organizing committee received another financial boost on March 19, as Leisure Days RV Centre Smiths Falls joined as a community partner.
General manager Dan Butler presented a cheque, along with the use of five RVs for the duration of the week-long festival from Aug. 2 to 9, 2025. It marked a $10,000 partnership with the special summer event.
The RVs will be set up as comfort stations throughout town for the committee and entertainment providers.
Shelly Bradley and Christa Dales Donnelly, co-chairs of this special event, say they are “really busy” as they finalize plans for the centennial celebration in 2025.
“I was a young person enjoying it in 1976, then my kids enjoyed it as youngsters in 2000, and now this one,” Bradley said. In 1975, the town celebrated its 150th anniversary, so Old Home Week was moved to the following year.
This tradition has brought residents and visitors together for more than a century. This year’s cele-
bration promises a mix of nostalgia and new experiences, embracing the town’s rich history while offering fresh attractions for all ages.
One of the most exciting new events is a drone show replacing traditional fireworks. Bradley said it will showcase the town’s history with approximately 200 drones taking to the sky at Lower Reach Park for an extravagant display on Aug. 2. In case of inclement weather, the show may be rescheduled later in the week.
An estimated 30,000 people are expected to visit Smiths Falls for the event, with some former residents planning their summer vacations around the festival.
Old Home Week dates back to the early 1900s, initially created to bring former residents back to their hometown. Over time, it evolved into a community staple featuring parades, live entertainment, sporting events and social gatherings. Families reunite, school alumni reconnect, and local businesses showcase their contributions to the town.
Through the decades, Old Home Week has grown to include carnival rides, talent shows and historical exhibits celebrating Smiths
Falls’ heritage. Settlers Days, which spun off from the 1976 event, continued through the 1990s, said Dales Donnelly.
“Old Home Week is more than just a festival; it’s a homecoming,” said Laura Newans, a committee member coordinating partnerships with local businesses. “It reminds us of our roots and allows us to celebrate the town’s legacy together.”
With excitement building and preparations underway, Smiths Falls is ready to welcome back old friends and create new memories.
Whether it’s a first-time experience or a return to beloved traditions, Old Home Week remains a vibrant part of the town’s identity.
“Some of our newer residents haven’t experienced an Old Home Week celebration,” Newans said. “Now that we’re into 2025, things are picking up.”
Bradley noted the festival’s uniqueness. “We haven’t found another one that is held every 25 years,” she said. “This is special for our community.”
Some of the confirmed events include:
Aug. 2: Opening parade, 1:30 p.m. with the theme, Our Roots, Our Present, Our Future. Starts at Smiths
Falls Youth Arena.
Aug. 3: Wellnessfest: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Lower Reach Park; Drone Show, 8 to 10 p.m.
Aug. 6: Pickleball Tournament: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Memorial Centre; Youth Talent Show, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Smiths Falls Station Theatre.
Aug. 7: Night Shirt Parade from 5 to 11 p.m. starting from the Memorial
Centre; Movies Under the Stars from 9:30 to 11 p.m. at Centennial Park.
Aug. 8: Riverbank Musicfest: 1 to 6 p.m. on Riverdale Avenue. Entertainment by King of Swingers, Roger Plant Trio, 3 to Go, Henry Norwood with Shawn McUllogh, Campbell Woods, Danielle Hewitt, Maeley “Paris Healey”, The Family Name, Tom Watson, Smiths Falls Concert Band
Small Town Charm, Timeless Home Designs
and more to come.
Aug. 9: DSFBA Summer Social, 11 a.m.; Farewell Concert at Lower Reach Park, 4 to 9 p.m. Lineup coming soon. Visit the Old Home Week website for more information and to see all the community sponsorships. Also, if you are looking to volunteer, visit the website for details on how to help.
Old Home Week committee chairs Christa Dales Donnelly (seated left) and Shelly Bradley (back left) solidify their partnership with Leisure Days RV Centre Smiths Falls general manager Dan Butler and service manager Candace Hall-MacGregor on March 19 at the showroom on Lombard Avenue. The donation of five RVs for use during Old Home Week, taking place Aug. 2–9, 2025, was also part of the partnership package with the Leisure Days RV Group. Photo credit: Laurie Weir.
community
Lanark and Smiths Falls release updated 4-year safety and well-being plan
Regional - Heddy Sorour editorial@pdgmedia.ca
A new Community Safety and Well-Being (CSWB) plan for Lanark County and Smiths Falls has been released, replacing the 2019 version. The plan is mandated under the Community Safety and Policing Act, 2019, which requires every municipality to complete one. In the fall of 2023, the CSWB Advisory Committee for Lanark County and
the Town of Smiths Falls provided an update on the 12 identified risk areas and the actions taken under the 2019 plan.
“Over the last four years, we have made progress in all of the identified risk areas, but there is more work to be done,” said thenSmiths Falls Deputy Police Service Chief Jodi Empey, who co-chaired the advisory committee at the time. Empey is now the police chief in Smiths Falls.
“A number of programs and services have been created or expanded to meet needs and fill gaps, and our community agencies continue to show remarkable collaboration in order to get important work done.”
Among the highlights of the first plan were the creation of programs such as the Mobile Crisis Response Team, the Lanark County Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, Lanark County’s Homelessness Response Team, a victim advocate position, the Inclusive Voices video series, and the See It, Name It, Change It campaign.
Like its predecessor, the
Backyard hen pilot project divides Smiths Falls council
Smiths Falls - Laurie Weir editorial@pdgmedia.ca
The backyard hen pilot project has ruffled some feathers around the horseshoe in Smiths Falls. During a committee of the whole meeting on Monday, March 23, fire Chief Rick Chesebrough presented a revised report to council for further consideration. His recommendation was not to proceed with the project at this time, citing concerns about avian flu as the primary reason.
Council first discussed the program in July 2024 when it decided to explore permitting backyard hens within town limits. The proposal followed several discussions, including a planning advisory committee vote in favour of zoning bylaw amendments in December 2024.
Staff outlined potential challenges, including limited training and resources, veterinary access, carcass disposal, enforcement difficulties, and logistical issues. There were also concerns about increased wildlife presence and the risk of avian influenza.
The program was proposed as a one-year pilot, with budgetary implications to be determined.
Coun. Chris McGuire said the risk level associated with backyard hens did not justify a 24/7 response, as indicated in the proposed bylaw, which was modelled after Carleton Place’s regulations.
“If we’re concerned about staff resources, there are ways to adjust the bylaw to reduce the impact,” he said. “Back-
yard hen owners shouldn’t be held to the same standard as dog or cat owners. The risk posed by a neglected dog or cat in the community is far greater than that of chickens.”
He added that requiring stringent oversight for an animal that relies on its owners for survival was excessive. He supported moving the bylaw forward under a complaint-driven process and without a licensing requirement.
Coun. Jay Brennan said he had never supported the project and never would.
“The avian flu risk only reinforces my opposition,” he said. “Even without that, I still wouldn’t support it. Livestock like chickens, cows, horses, and pigs belong in rural areas, not in town. Period.”
Coun. Dawn Quinn also opposed the project, citing her experience raising chickens for eggs and meat.
“There isn’t enough room in town for backyard hens without impacting neighbours,” she said. “We don’t have the infrastructure to manage a backyard chicken program. Chickens are meant to be in the country.”
Quinn also noted the town already struggles to manage its feral cat population.
Coun. Peter McKenna agreed with McGuire, suggesting the project move forward as a small pilot without excessive regulation.
“I don’t support hiring new bylaw officers,” he said. “I don’t think that’s necessary. Let’s start small and see how it goes.”
Mayor Shawn Pankow acknowledged the com-
new plan engaged community partners from various sectors, including local government, climate and environmental organizations, justice, community groups, youth, health care, education, social services, and victim services.
“Building off the previous plan was a key first step toward creating the updated plan. The new version works from the base provided by the previous plan and adds current data and information while reflecting how the world has changed since 2019,” said Stephanie Gray, coordinator of the Lanark County Situation Table and CSWB plan. “The updated plan identifies new issues and some new pillars, but the main risk categories highlighted in the previous plan provide a baseline for the themes, pillars, goals, and strategies in the new plan.”
Two new issues were identified based on feedback from numerous surveys and focus groups: climate change and inclusivity and diversity.
According to Gray, the advisory committee reviewed the 12 previously identified risk areas and established four new theme areas for the updated plan: health; affordability and quality of life; violence against persons; and priority populations. These
plexity of the issue but said he preferred enabling new initiatives rather than prohibiting them outright.
He noted that the health unit has received 50,000 avian flu vaccines.
“That’s a proactive step,” he said, adding that federal support would be crucial if avian flu became a broader concern.
“I’m undecided on this,” he said. While he acknowledged potential challenges, he pointed out that many municipalities permit backyard hens.
Although Pankow did not see the project as a significant cost-saving measure after the initial investment in chickens, feed, and a coop, he said it provided residents with more control over their food supply.
“It gives people the freedom to choose how they get their eggs and what type of eggs they eat.”
Pankow said he would like to see insights from other municipalities on how they manage backyard hen programs.
Council directed the fire chief to gather feedback from municipalities that allow backyard hens and to revise the bylaw accordingly. Coun. Jennifer Miller, who chaired the meeting, supported moving the project forward.
“We’d like to see the bylaw proposal again before making a final decision on the pilot,” she said.
Miller also requested an operational plan and further feedback from municipalities with similar programs.
themes are supported by several pillars.
“The pandemic has helped shape many of the themes and pillars in the new plan. The affordability and quality of life theme in particular reflects some of the impacts from the pandemic, including issues related to housing, income, and food security. The belonging and civic engagement pillar addresses issues around social isolation and encourages more engagement in the community.
Evidence shows families have been struggling since the pandemic, and the plan aims to increase connections between families and the supports they may need,” Gray explained.
Regarding climate change, the committee identified its negative effects on those exposed to the elements, as well as its serious impact on mental health. Surveys and focus groups revealed heightened concerns about natural disasters, extreme weather events, power outages, loss of shelter, and air and water quality. Recommended solutions are advocacy and education.
The CSWB plan applies to the entire county and Smiths Falls; however, individual municipalities have the option to develop their own plans. Regardless, each municipality must approve a plan before
next steps can be taken. Currently, Gray is presenting the 2025-2029 plan to area municipalities for approval. Once approved, the advisory committee will begin working on an action plan.
“[This] will include a work plan and identifying teams most suited to working on specific goals. We hope to begin this work in late spring,” Gray said.
While the Community Safety and Policing Act, 2019, does not require municipalities to track progress or provide updates, the local CSWB advisory committee chooses to do so and releases annual reports to the public.
A copy of the progress report from the previous plan is available at https:// lanarkkids.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ CSWB-Plan-for-LC-andSF-Progress-Report-2020condensed-final.pdf
Like its predecessor, the new plan is a living document that will guide the advisory committee over the next four years.
“A lot of the plan is based on the idea of making progress. We’re not going to solve poverty, but it’s about making a difference,” Gray concluded.
A copy of the 2025 CSWB plan can be viewed on municipal websites as Gray presents it to local councils.
Town of Perth welcomes Nev Jande New Director of Corporate Services
Perth - Submitted editorial@pdgmedia.ca
The Town of Perth is pleased to announce the appointment of Nev Jande as the new Director of Corporate Services/Treasurer. A Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA) with more than two decades of experience in the public and private sectors, Nev brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to this vital role in the municipality.
“Nev’s extensive experience in strategic planning, financial oversight, and leadership makes her a fantastic addition to our team,” states Michael Touw, CAO. “Her
collaborative spirit and deep understanding of municipal needs will support our ongoing efforts to grow and serve our community with integrity and care.”
Nev has spent much of her career in senior leadership roles with PwC and KPMG, where she managed complex audit and assurance engagements and led teams supporting public sector clients, including municipalities. She is deeply committed to building relationships, strengthening internal controls, and driving operational excellence. Her areas of expertise span budgeting and reporting, procurement, risk management, human resources, and
policy development.
A long-time Perth resident, Nev is actively engaged in the community through volunteer roles with the Perth Lanark Minor Hockey Association and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lanark County, and previously served with The Table Community Food Centre. Her dedication to both professional and community leadership will be an asset as the town continues to grow and evolve. Nev’s first day with the Town of Perth was April 7, 2025. We are excited to welcome her to the leadership team and look forward to the positive impact she will have on the organization and community.
Hometown News caught up with Stephanie Gray, coordinator, Lanark County Situation Table, Community Safety and Well-being Plan as she made her presentation at Montague council on March 18. Photo credit: Heddy Sorour.
Nev Jande. Photo credit: Submitted.
lifestyle
Tick season returns: Blacklegged ticks active again in Eastern Ontario
REGIONAL - Laurie Weir
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Eastern Ontario’s tiniest bloodsuckers are back— and they’re not here for dance videos.
As temperatures climb above 4°C, blacklegged ticks in eastern Ontario are becoming active, and with them comes the risk of serious tick-borne illnesses.
“We want people to enjoy the benefits of being outdoors, whether they’re
hiking, gardening or cleaning up yard debris,” said the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit. “But we also want residents to take the proper precautions to reduce their risk of tick bites and tick-borne diseases.”
Blacklegged ticks in the region may carry bacteria and microscopic organisms that cause Lyme disease, as well as anaplasmosis and babesiosis, two diseases that became reportable to
the health unit in July 2023.
According to health untario, eastern Ontario is considered an established risk area for blacklegged ticks due to favourable conditions and ongoing surveillance. Across the province, Lyme disease has increased significantly in recent years, with more than 1,000 cases reported in Ontario in 2017 alone, a major jump from the previous five-year average of
Rideaus fall short in 7–6 thriller as Rockets take EOSHL Championship
Smiths Falls - Laurie Weir
editorial@pdgmedia.ca
The North Dundas Rockets brought the fireworks and hoisted the hardware Sunday night after a nail-biter at the Smiths Falls Memorial Community Centre, edging the Rideaus 7–6 on April 6 to clinch the 2025 EOSHL Championship, four games to one. They played in front of a large crowd of 1,350 fans.
It was a rollercoaster finish to a hard-fought series, with the Rockets exploding for three unanswered goals in the second period to break open a 2–2 tie and fend off a late Rideaus comeback.
And in the middle of the mayhem? Michael Mcnamee, who turned in a sixpoint performance that would make even Wayne Gretzky raise an eyebrow — two goals, four assists, and the well-earned first star of the game.
The Rideaus struck first
with Spenser Cobbold finding the net in the opening frame, but the lead didn’t last. Mcnamee, Derek Froats and the rest of the Rockets answered in kind. A first-period flurry ended 2–2 after a power-play goal by Andrew Sprague gave Smiths Falls some early hope. Then came the second-period onslaught.
North Dundas dominated the middle frame, outshooting the Rideaus 14–5 and potting three goals courtesy of Fabian Walsh (twice) and Chris Kushneriuk. Suddenly, it was 5–2 for the Rockets — and the Rideaus were reeling.
Mcnamee struck again early in the third to extend the lead to 6–2, seemingly putting the game — and the championship — out of reach.
But someone forgot to tell the Rideaus.
Down by four with under 15 minutes to play, Smiths Falls mounted a furious
comeback. Goals from Tate Leeson, Theo Todd (twice), and David Bennett — the last on a power-play with the goalie pulled — brought the home crowd of 1,350 to its feet, clawing the game back to 7–6 with just over a minute remaining.
Smiths Falls called a timeout at 1:35, and with the net empty again, pushed for the equalizer — but time ran out.
Smiths Falls' Theo Todd was named second star with two goals, while Rockets forward Fabian Walsh earned third-star honours with a pair of goals and an assist.
In total, Mcnamee figured in on six of the Rockets' seven goals — a postseason performance for the ages.
With the win, the North Dundas Rockets claim the Eastern Ontario Super Hockey League title, marking a fitting end to a wild ride through the playoffs. The final shot tally: Rockets 32, Rideaus 24.
313. Nationally, there were more than 5,200 reported cases of Lyme disease in 2024, according to preliminary data from the Public Health Agency of Canada.
“Even if you’ve had Lyme disease before, you can be re-infected,” the health unit added. “Ticks don’t care about your past medical history.”
Precautions That Could Save Your Health
The health unit encourages everyone to take the following steps to avoid infection:
• Dress in light-coloured clothing to help spot ticks more easily.
• Use insect repellents containing DEET or Icaridin—safe for use on skin and clothing.
• Wear clothing that contains a built-in tick repellent if possible.
• Put outdoor clothes into a hot dryer for several minutes to kill any ticks.
• Use a stiff-bristled brush on pant legs, sleeves, and footwear before going indoors.
• Shower and scrub well after outdoor activities to remove unattached ticks.
• Perform a full-body
tick check. If possible, ask someone to check hard-tosee places. Don’t forget to check pets, too.
• Promptly remove attached ticks using fine-tipped tweezers or a tick twister.
A tick’s ability to transmit disease depends largely on how long it’s attached: Lyme disease and babesiosis typically require a tick to be attached for at least 24 hours, while anaplasmosis can be transmitted in as little as 12 hours.
“Fat ticks are particularly concerning,” the Health Unit noted. “They’ve likely been feeding for a longer period, which increases the risk of infection if the tick is carrying disease.”
What to Watch For Lyme disease often begins with flu-like symptoms: fever, headache, fatigue, and joint pain, as well as a possible bull’s eye rash at the site of the bite. Symptoms may appear anywhere from three to 30 days after the bite.
Babesiosis and anaplasmosis can cause similar early symptoms, including fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, and fatigue. In
severe cases, these illnesses may result in long-term complications or require hospitalization.
“If you’ve been bitten by a tick and it was attached for more than 12 hours, consult your health care provider. In the case of Lyme disease, some pharmacists may also provide preventative treatment in certain situations,” the health unit advised. Tick specimens are no longer accepted by the health unit for disease testing, as ticks themselves are not used to diagnose illness. However, residents can submit photos of ticks for identification through eTick.ca For more information, visit the Insect Bites and Diseases section at healthunit. org, call 1-800-660-5853, or email contact@healthunit. org. You can also follow @ LGLHealthUnit on Facebook and X, or @lglhealthunit.z on Instagram.
The Smiths Falls Rideaus played a hard-fought series with the North Dundas Rockets. Photo credit: Screengrab.
Smiths Falls Rideaus team photo. Photo credit: Smiths Falls
The Travelling Sommelier Food & Drink
sipping through sydney, perth and beyond
Column by Brian Preston | brianpreston@hotmail.com
Greetings readers!
I am writing this from the Island Princess on its World Cruise 2025. I am taking two segments (54 days) from Sydney, Australia, to Rome, Italy. We are docked now for two days in Athens, Greece, and before I can go out for a traditional Greek supper feast with traditional costumed dancers, drinking ouzo and a variety of Greek wines, and breaking plates to the cry, 'Oopa', I must get this article in before the deadline!
In Sydney, we enjoyed a variety of dining venues, including the revolving restaurant atop the Sydney Eye tower. I had a lovely Stone & Wood Pacific beer done in the American Pale
Ale style. It was distinctly hopped but not strong with too much Cascade hops and others that Pacific beers in the USA can sometimes be. I don't like pine splinters in my cheeks! This one was a great accompaniment to the delicate Australian barramundi fish and the lightly curried chicken and rice dish.
When we sailed to Perth in Western Australia, I took a wine tour of Swan Valley River, stopping at several wineries and a gin distillery! The second oldest winery in Australia, Olive Farm Estates, served several lovely whites and reds. Their family was of Italian origin, as several vineyard owners are in the valley. We were particularly impressed with Nikola Estate Winery, where we dined al fresca overlooking their vineyards, enjoying a wine tasting and lovely 3 course lunch in the shade. It was in the high 20s with relatively high humidity—a far cry from the crazy Canadian winter we are having this year! They had several exceptional wines including a killer Chenin Blanc, famous in South Africa, which I will visit next and
write about next month. It tasted of fresh yellow tree fruit with tropical notes and finished clean and fruity. A perfect accompaniment to the fruit wine/olive oil infused Greek salad with feta cheese—no vinegar to conflict with the wines! With the main course, their Italian-blend red wine was perfect with the lamb. I tried a sample and bought a bottle of their single-varietal Negroamaro. On board it was great with several meals. This grape variety has lovely, light reddish hues on the edge of the glass and looks like a Barbaresco. But the aromas of earthy red fruit and plums gave way to soft tannins with a smooth, mouth-filling texture and a full, rich replay of ripe red fruit and dark berries. Very well made and tasty!
Next on our tour we stopped for fudge and chocolate at Perth Chocolate Factory, and then made a final stop at Sin Gin Distillery set in a market mall. Fabulous ambiance with vendors selling all manner of really local (less touristy junk). The distiller must be part chemist as there are over 12 flavours of infused gin, most made in the dry gin style. Some were sweeter and could be served with a light fruit dessert! I sampled about eight small versions, ranging from traditional dry gin with about five botanicals to a wild 12 botanical version of strawberry gin that was more like a wine as you discovered the layers of different flavours each lent to the concoction. I told you the distiller was a chemist! Too bad we don't get some of these in Canada.
Well, I better wrap up this story and get ready to pro-
vide a further travelogue as I taste my way around half the world. After all, I am not referred to as The Travelling Sommelier for nothing, right? I do have a request for you, my readers. Please let me know if you like this variation on the usual columns describing local and LCBO offerings. I am assuming that you like a little variety, and rest assured that upon my return, I will be revisiting some of the local regional wineries, breweries and distilleries of Eastern Ontario to keep you updated on what they are producing. Please drop me a note or, better yet, a letter to the editor, so that I can meet your expectations in this column, or even to answer any questions you may have. My email is at the top banner. Cheers!
Brian Preston
The Travelling Sommelier
Perth's Festival of the Maples returns April 26
Perth - Laurie Weir editorial@pdgmedia.ca
Get ready to pour it on thick — the 49th annual Festival of the Maples returns to downtown Perth on Saturday, April 26, and it's shaping up to be the tastiest event of the season.
Presented by the Perth & District Chamber of Commerce, this year’s festival will transform Gore Street, Foster Street, and the Tay Basin into a maple-lover’s paradise. The sweet spoils of sugar season will be front and centre, with local syrup producers, taffy-on-snow, and everything maple under the sun.
But it’s not just about the syrup — families can also enjoy a petting zoo, Ry-J’s Climbing Adventures, live music, antique cars, and the always-entertaining Sap Tapping and CrossCut Saw Competitions. Over 200 vendors and artisans will round out the day with food, crafts, and small-town charm.
Admission is free, and
downtown will be bustling from morning to late afternoon. Vendor spots are sold out, but a wait list is available by contacting maple@perthchamber.com or calling 613-267-3200. Visit festivalofthemaples. com for more on the event. So come hungry, bring the kids, and celebrate the sticky stuff that makes Canada sweet.
Gin distillery in Swan Valley, Western Australia Photo credit: Brian Preston
Our wine tour lunch overlooking Nikola Estate Winery vineyards. Photo credit: Brian Preston.
Photo credit: Brian Preston
Maple taffy on snow. Photo credit: Perth Tourism [facebook.com/ Perthtourism]
FINANCIAL MATTERS: A formula for peace of mind in this crazy world
Has the quick and steep decline in the financial markets and the economic fallout from the Trump tariffs elevated your concern about your long-term financial security?
Are you fearful of the possibility of a global recession and this new era of uncertainty will have a long-lasting effect on your retirement savings?
You are not alone.
The steep decline in global financial markets April 3-4, including a 9.7% drop in the Dow Jones Industrial Average and an 8% correction on the TSX Composite Index may be the start of a deep bear market. There was no escape as financial markets around the world followed similar patterns.
It is best to avoid glancing into your rearview mirror for answers. The markets go through their cycles on a very frequent basis and rarely does a year go by without periods of comparable decline and high volatility. The question before us is, what comes next?
It is time to ask ourselves if we are prepared for ongoing volatility and possibly deeper declines and what impact this may have on our long-term financial security, especially if we are retired, or nearing retirement.
Retirement plans forecast future cash flows based on all sources of income and targeted rates of return on investments.
Comprehensive plans also examine the potential impact of various risks that could derail your longterm security, including greater longevity, higher rates of inflation, lower than forecasted rates of growth on your investments, and most importantly now, the impact of a steep decline in financial markets in retirement.
One of the most important components of a retirement plan is the future values of your investments. Annual review of these milestones helps you understand if you are on track for a lifetime of income security. If you are ahead of these milestones
today, it can give you the peace of mind knowing what is happening in today should not have a material impact on your long-term security. If you are behind, you may want to reduce or delay spending for a period of time.
Applying the lens of retirement planning to your investment portfolio provides guidance to your asset allocation, and by having sufficient amounts of fixed income investments to meet cash flow needs for a minimum of two to three years, you can have the patience needed not to panic as your equity holdings are in free fall.
Now is also an important time to ensure your portfolio reflects your overall tolerance for risk, your time horizon and your objectives; especially if you have not reviewed this in recent years.
Additionally, with very positive returns from equities, now is an important time to review the asset allocation in your investment portfolios to ensure that you have appropriate
By Shawn Pankow
diversification. Portfolio shift is common when equities outperform fixed income over time, or when certain sectors become a larger proportion of a portfolio after a period of outperformance.
Rebalancing to your appropriate portfolio mix can help reduce your overall risk. With the outperformance of the U.S. market over the past 15 years and with growth-focused equities outperforming value, it is important to take a deeper look into your holdings and ensure your portfolio reflects where you need to be. Although value has been out of favour over this period, it has outperformed growth over the longer term, and traditionally comes into favour during periods of challenging economic times.
Despite the protectionist agenda rolling out of the White House and global tariff war we see emerging and evolving every day, now is not a time for panic. It is a time for a thoughtful examination
of your all the factors that contribute to your longterm financial security, and some professional oversight and advice.
Shawn Pankow is a Certified Financial
with Pankow