The newest member of Canada’s centenarian club, Bernie Prevost, who also happens to be Grimsby’s last surviving WWII veteran, gets congratulations from Lincoln and Welland Band Drum Major Todd Scotney during an event planned at Grimsby’s Royal Canadian Legion in his honour on Saturday. For full details, please turn to Page 3. McDonald - Photos
Bernie Prevost’s 100th
ByJoanne McDonald For NewsNow
Pte Bernie Prevost was just 19 when he landed at Juno Beach with his regiment - rifles held high over their heads in plastic bags as they waded to shore –June 6, 1944, D-Day, during the Allied invasion of Normandy in the Second World War.
Prevost was wounded in action that day, losing a finger and sustaining shrapnel over his eye. He was evacuated to England and after he recovered, served as a military driver.
Decades would pass before Prevost would speak of the memories of war.
His son-in-law Rob Termor-
shuizen said it was at least 35 years before he heard his father-in-law mention the war. It was too painful. “He didn’t want to talk about it.”
Now Grimsby’s last remaining Second World War veteran, it was a true privilege Saturday for the family and friends who packed the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #127 to celebrate Prevost’s 100th birthday.
The centenarian said he was amazed that so many people were there to celebrate the milestone. It was after all, his fourth birthday party of the week.
The Lincoln and Welland Band opened up the ceremo-
ny, local dignitaries lined up to wish Prevost well and there were hugs all around from some of Prevost’s five children, seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren at the party.
“He was an amazing father,” said daughter Cindy Termorshuizen. It was always a busy
household that also made room for foster kids. “He was always very patient.”
Representatives from Quilts of Valour Canada presented a beautiful handcrafted quilt. “We are honoured to present this Quilt of Valour to Bernard (Bernie) Prevost with his family and friends here to honour him and recognize his service to Canada,” said Quilts of Valour rep Shirley Hoad with Lil Budden.
“Our mission is to ensure that injured Canadian Forces members, past and present, are recognized for their service and commitment to our country through the presentation of quilts that we like to call ‘Hugs of Comfort.’ To date, 23,919 quilts have been presented across Canada.”
Bernard Kenneth Prevost was born September 13, 1924, in Cornwall, Ontario. He enlisted as a Private in the Stormont, Dundas, and Glengarry Highlanders when he was 17 years old.
An active member of the Grimsby Legion for many years, Prevost is a familiar face every November 11 at Remembrance Day services at the Cenotaph. Prevost now lives at the Maplecrest Village Retirement Residence in Grimsby. The twinkle in his eye says he enjoys life to the fullest.
Grimsby Seniors Club wil host a presentation next week to help residents maximize medical visits.
Shelley Sinclair, Rose Cottage Visiting Volunteers’ client care and education manager will lead the talk on “The ABC’s of talking with your doctor: How to make the most of your healthcare experience.”
The event is set for Monday, Sept. 23 at 1:30 p.m. at the Livingston Activity Centre, located next to Shoppers Drug Mart in the Grimsby Square Plaza, 18 Livingston Ave.
Admission is free, but organizers ask for a call to confirm attendance at 905-3092075.
By Mike Williscraft NewsNow
Despite a builder which “abused the process”, it appears an oversized home at 30 Viking Drive is going to be permitted by the Town of Grimsby after a host of residents opposed variance applications and Committee of Adjustment rejected all of them.
At Grimsby council’s Sept. 5 meeting – at the very end of a nearfour-hour-long session – Grimsby council rose from closed session to approve a motion which allows its planning department recommendations to be used as the basis for a settlement with the builder.
At the July 16 COA meeting, the variances requested - after the home’s frame was in place - included front yard setback, rear yard setback, rear yard encroachment for a chimney breast and maximum lot coverage.
As COA member Kevin Antonides said at the time, “
“The cumulative impact of the three variances, or four, combined with the fact that he is pushing the en-
velope with the height; it doesn’t match the average grade. It isn’t appropriate for the development use of the property. It isn’t minor in nature. It doesn’t meet the initial intent and zoning bylaws, so I can’t support it at all,” said Antonides.
“He’s flagrantly abused the process.”
Later, Grimsby council agreed.
However, the builder appealed the decision to the Ontario Land Tribunal.
Although Antonides said it was the process which was abused, the residents feel like they are the victims in all this.
“They never applied for permits for anything other than to build on the existing foundation. That plan went south, said the builder’s consultant at the COA meeting, when the foundation was found to be damaged beyond possible use.
At that point, the old foundation was removed and new build went up – fast.
While the build was underway, residents say repeated calls and inquiries to town hall
went unanswered.
“We were only told it was incumbent on the builder to contact the Town. Well, we can see how that went,” said neighbour Kevin Humston.
Now, with council’s support of a settlement, neighbours say the builder, St. Joseph Homes, has gotten everything they want without any prior approvals.
“We’re now told they have to conform to the rules of the Town. How do you conform to the rules of the Town when you’re going to get variances after the fact? That makes zero sense. The rules are 25 per cent lot coverage. This is 32 per cent,” said neighbour Mike Esch.
Humston noted the situation is a series of double standards.
“We put a swim/spa in our backyard and we had to get three permits and three inspections. These guys did nothing,” said Humston.
“The builder knew exactly what he was doing. I guess that’s the way now, just do what you want,” added Esch.
“If this stands, all of a sudden, there’s no permits required for anything in this town.”
The Town and Coun. Jennifer Korstanje, who the group said has been very helpful, do not agree with that assessment.
“One of the most important, is that the builder does not bypass the proper process and that it is still ongoing. He is not getting away with anything, he’s ac-
tually made it more difficult for himself. A proper permit for the construction still has to be applied for and granted. If it is a new build (not an addition to the existing foundation) it is more costly. There are also some additional administrative costs applied and cannot be contested,” wrote Korstanje to the group in an email after the council meeting.
“The house will still have to follow all requirements of zoning
and the building code. It is not exempt and it will be inspected. Some of which you can imagine will be costly given the current situation. Nothing will be bypassed and everything will still be checked and have to be proven as per the process...Going to the OLT is only to get the minor variance of lot coverage that he needs.”
Council approved a motion “that council instruct the Town’s legal counsel to reach a
settlement with the appellant accepting the planning staff recommendation contained within the planning staff report regarding Minor Variance Application A-22-24 and present such a settlement to the Ontario Land Tribunal.”
Coun. Lianne Vardy, Veronica Charrois and Korstanje opposed the motion. Couan. Jacob Baradziej, Reg Freake, Delight Davoli, Nick DiFlavio and Mayor Jeff Jordan voted in favour.
Impeccable inside and out! Open concept design. Features include: 3 bedrooms, C/Air, C/Vac, newer roof shingles, gas fireplace, fridge, stove, washer/dryer, shed, fully fenced yard. Spacious primary bedroom with ensuite privilege. A pleasure to show!
$699,900
4387 Tamarac Ave, Beamsville
"Love working with Zoi and her team! Zoi is always responsive, professional and has wonderful insight into the real estate market as well as things to look for in homes. She does a fantastic job of preparing homes for sale as well and goes the extra mile to ensure the home sells for the best possible price. Highly recommend to anyone who needs a realtor!"
- Taylor S.
$5/PERSON OR
Tickets
We offer a variety of free employment services including resumes, interview skills and local job postings on our job board.
Walk in or call us today to get a team of employment experts on your side.
OCT 4
Tree: Free | Limit 1 per household PICK UP DETAILS
Jordan Lions Arena
2767 Fourth Ave., Jordan
Tree Pick Up: 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Rain Barrel Pick Up: 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Rain Barrel: $53.10 + tax | Limit 2 per household
The tree giveaway is open to Lincoln residents only. Identification with proof of residency such as a driver’s license or recent utility bill will be required upon pickup. Orders with billing addresses that are not located in the Town of Lincoln will be cancelled. Registration will close as stock is reserved. Visit Lincoln.ca/RootedInLincoln to reserve.
SEPT 25
Fleming Centre 3 - 5 p.m.
5020 Serena Dr., Beamsville
Walk together, reflect togetherIn partnership with the Niagara Regional Native Centre, join us on a community walk to honour the children who never returned home & the survivors of residential schools. Wear orange to show your support
• 3 - 4 p.m. Land Acknowledgment & Community Walk
• 4 - 5 p.m. Educational & Learning Opportunities
LEARN MORE
Please consider bringing a food donation to the Niagara Regional Native Centre. Most-needed items include cereal, peanut butter, juice boxes, rice, canned pasta, canned fruit & vegetables, and canned meat & fish.
Lincoln.ca/2024CommunityWalk
The third annual Grimsby Arts Walk - set for this Saturday, Sept. 21 - is an event that has something for everyone.
Interactive art programs, music, crafts, food trucks and a ton more all within walking distance among four locations: Nelles Manor Museum, Grimsby Museum, Coronation Park and Grimsby Public Art Gallery.
The event runs from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and admission in all locations is free. Tours at Nelles Manor are donation only.
“There are plenty of things to see and do at every location and each spot is unique,” said Melissa Rusich, Grimsby’s special events coordinator.
By Mike Williscraft NewsNow
Grimsby Council brought a major piece of administrative change to its members with little advanced notice and no staff report to support - much to the chagrin of several councillors at its Sept. 5 meeting.
Under a “mid-term review, major changes to its procedurual bylaw and Code of Conduct were introduced with items ranging from add controls on the recording of meetings to added liability for social media comments.
While Coun. Jennifer Korstanje and Coun. Veronica Charrois had a series of concerns with different components, Coun. Nick DiFlavio was more concerned about how the information was presented.
“When I saw the agenda and glanced through this, and I apologize for not reading it more thoroughly, I was under the impression we would have a presentation tonight that would show a matrix that would show changes being made,” said DiFlavio.
“Traditionally, when we make these types of changes you get a chart that shows before and after so we can compare what we have currently and what we’re going to. That’s why I voted for a deferral tonight, because I saw there was no such presentation. I wanted to give staff a chance to prepare something.”
A presentation would have smoothed much of the process as a great many questions were up for debate that could have been pre-emptively explained via a staff report on the changes.
The changes were many and complex as exemplified by the multiple references from both the clerk and CAO that the Town’s legal counsel had thoroughly vetted all the adjustments.
A point of contention was new controls put on recording meetings and the lack of having advisory committees electronically recorded at all. That, coupled with having no recorded votes at advisory committee meetings was inadequate, said Charrios.
“If we’re talking about a committee that does not have video, and then we’re also talking about not recording votes, how do you then prove conflict of interest or anything if you have no...see what I’m saying?” said Charrois.
“Conflict of interest is on, I believe the third item on every agenda. So if a committee member declares a conflict of interest, we would put it both on the agenda, or if it’s after we would put it in the minutes. We also have a form on our website where it gets registered,” answered clerk Vicki Steele.
As part of the changes, council approved banning use of recording devices with media approved only if a written request is submitted to the clerk to do
so. As well, signs, banners, flags and such are also banned from council chambers.
A section putting social media posts and personal texts from council members was also put in play for possible Code of Conduct violations, but that portion of the changes was ultimately removed after debate.
At several points, the sheer volume of changes and lack of prior discussion was brought up.
“I don’t know how we can approve this - “there are so many changes to this. This isn’t just one or two items that have changed. There are significant amounts that have changed. It is a complete revamp and we just got it,” said Charrois.
When concerns about compliance arose, CAO Sarah Kim stepped in.
“The clerk made it clear in the beginning that this was vetted by legal, so if you do have any concerns that it is breaching legislation, our legal has ensured that this is in compliance. If that is your stance, the best recommendation at this time is that you ask for a deferral,” said Kim.
A motion to defer was conducted with only Charrois, Korstanje and DiFlavio supporting it. A separate motion to record all advisory committee meetings was also defeated.
The package of changes was eventually approved with some revisions with Korstanje and Charrois the only ones opposed.
19, 2024
Once of Niagara West’s most enduring events - Pioneer Days - is set for this Saturday, Sept 21 at the Lincoln Museum & Cultural Centre.
For decades this has been a “can’t miss” event.
This is the 58th annual event, returning with many of our favourites: historic crafts demonstrations such as a blacksmith, steam engines, beekeepers, and more. There will be live music, artisans, and apple fritters, of course” said Olivia Rozema, Lincoln Museum’s curator of education and engagement.
There will be no onsite parking available,
but ample close by at Jordan Fire Station, 3763 Nineteenth St, Jordan - behind the station.
Additional free parking and a shuttle bus will be provided from:
• Jordan Arena: 2767 Fourth Ave., and;
• Immanuel United Reformed Church: 2900 Fourth Ave, Jordan Station.
Admission cost $5/ person four years and older or $20/family. Tickets at the gate.
Attendees can also bring a non-perishable food donation for Community Care of West Niagara.
Pets are not permitted at the Harvest Pioneer Day except for valid service animals.
Whether it is old-fashioned laundry, basketmaking or apple peeling, there will be all kinds of heritage displays at Pioneer Days.
Councillor Dianne Rintjema & Councillor Adam Russell
Oct 3 6:30 - 8:30
Join us for an open agenda meeting to discuss what matters most to you in Ward 1 and throughout Lincoln. This is an open agenda/question and answer style meeting with open discussion specifically arranged to listen to and talk with residents. A few members of senior staff will also be in attendance to help answer any questions you may have. As always, please feel free to contact us at:
Councillor
South Shore Search And Rescue kicked off its annual recruitment drive this week to fill a higher than expected need.
The volunteer marine rescue organization has set a goal of landing at least 10 new members to replenish the crews.
“We are looking for capable, committed volunteers for our most important role: saving lives on the water,” said director of membership David Rohr.
The 2024 boating season, which ends in November, has seen an unusually high rate of membership turnover, Rohr noted, resulting in a constant juggling of crew schedules and reduced crew sizes.
“There’s no single factor,” he said. “There was illness, career challenges, injuries — the normal things in life. We just seem to have more this year.”
Replenishing the membership is a priority for the fall, Rohr added.
Information sessions for interested applicants will be held over the next two months. The successful candidates will begin classroom training early in January with the goal of being ready to join a crew for the next boating season.
South Shore Search And Rescue crews are on 24/7 stand-by during the boating season, ready to aid mariners in distress anywhere on West-
ern Lake Ontario. The group maintains a rescueready boat at Fifty Point Marina and has already been dispatched to more than 25 rescue missions so far this season.
The group needs assistance with fundraising, community events and other activities where volunteers can pitch in.
Membership represents a real commitment.
“One evening a week during winter training becomes one evening a week of on-water training during the season,” Rohr said.
“In addition, members assigned to a crew are on-call one weekend each month, which usually means training or being on patrol each day during that weekend. Membership is a real commitment.”
The group welcomes applications from individuals over the age of 18 years. Candidates must be physically able to function in a difficult marine environment and commit to obtaining their Transport Canada-approved Pleasure Craft Operator Card prior to getting on the water. Training is provided. Those interested can call Rohr via gamru.ca/contactus .The group will host information nights on Monday, Oct. 21; Monday, Oct. 28 and Monday, Nov. 11. in Stoney Creek. A session on Monday, Nov. 4 in St. Catharines is also planned.
road closure will take place as noted below.
These track repairs are necessary to increase public safety and improve transportation throughout Lincoln.
at the CN Rail Crossing between Greenlane and Greenlane from Monday, Sept. 23 at 7 a.m. to Friday, Sept.
September 12, 1937September 13, 2024
In his perfect timing, the Lord called to himself his child and our dear father and Opa, David VanAmerongen Sr. on September 13, 2024, the day after his 87th birthday, and only a few weeks after his dear wife.
David was born in Den Haag, the Netherlands on September 12, 1937, the eldest child of Hendrikus and Cornelia VanAmerongen. He moved to Canada with his family in 1958. A year later he married Jacoba Vroegop and they were blessed with six children. For many years Dave owned and operated Budget Used Appliances in Grimsby.
David will be missed by his children Rick VanAmerongen, Rob and Joyce VanAmerongen David and Pam VanAmerongen, Connie VanAmerongen, James and Linda VanAmerongen, and Jennifer and Ed VanderVegte, as well as his 22 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren.
He is survived by his brothers and sisters in law Klaas Visser, John and Margriet VanAmerongen, Anne VanAmerongen, Jenny and Henk VanVeen, Valerie VanAmerongen, Diane Stroop, Anna and Charlie Piper, Catja Vroegop and Jan Rijdes, Hans and Magteld Vroegop and Maarten Taal.
He was predeceased by his wife Jacoba, his granddaughters Arielle and Amanda VanAmerongen, his brothers Henk and Bert VanAmerongen, sisters Joanne Visser and Willy Ludwig, brothers in law John Ludwig and George Stroop, Adrie Taal, Cor and Alie Vroegop, and Dirk and Tiny Vroegop.
Visitation was held at GRASSIE CANADIAN REFORMED CHURCH. Private interment at Union Cemetery in Smithville preceded a Memorial Service.
“By day the LORD commands his steadfast love, and at night his song is with me, a prayer to the God of my life.”
Psalm 42:8
After a short, but courageous battle with cancer, Joe passed away September 1, 2024, in his 49th year, with his supportive and loving family by his side. Joe leaves behind his adoring wife Kym Calder, his precious son Tye, very loved stepson Justice Knechtel, and his fur babies he loved so much, Marley and Bentley. Joe will be missed by his cherished mother Joan (Margaret) Delaney (Rutkowsky), his loving mother and fatherin-law Roger and Beverley Calder, sisters Sandi Rutkowsky and Donna Upfold-Payne, stepbrother Warren Delaney, and stepsister Charlotte Webb. Joe will be dearly missed by his sister and brother-in-law, Allison Calder and Steve Gregory, many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and countless friends who he called family. Joe worked for many years at Maple Manufacturing in Smithville, Ontario, where he met a great group of friends he enjoyed spending time with ATVing up north in Dorset, Ontario, where he traveled often to meet up with his lifelong friends Dale Webb and Shane Roper. There are many stories of the times they shared, with pictures and videos to prove their shenanigans. You know who you are boys and Tye, and I thank you for making such great memories with Joe that we can look back on and smile. Joe was very family and friend oriented, and it showed to all who had the privilege to meet him. “Hold my beer” (which was 100% of the time empty) could always be heard coming from his mouth when he was having the time of his life around the campfire. ATVing, Snowmobiling, tinkering with his RC’s, Saturday Euchre, listening and dancing to music on Friday nights in the kitchen with Kym were among his favorite pastimes. One more favor to ask of you my angel, let us know when you’re watching over us and give us the courage and strength that we will need now more than ever. In Joe’s memory, and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or a charity you hold dear to your heart. In keeping with Joe’s wishes there will be no funeral service or visitation. There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date. Date and time to follow. We all love you dearly and you will be missed until the end of time. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755 www.smithsfh.com
Passed away peacefully at home in Grimsby, on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, in her 90th year. Reunited in Heaven with her beloved husband, Frederick “Fred” (2010). Loving mother of Bill (Cheryl) of Vineland, Joanne Harvey of Winnipeg, Linda Moroz (John) of Hastings, and Robert and his family of Waterloo. Proud grandmother of Meaghan Moroz (Jordan Sampson), Rebecca Moroz, Nicole and Julia Harvey. Cherished great-grandmother of Jack and Rosie Sampson. To honour Sonia’s wishes, a private Service of Remembrance was held at STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (905-9452755), followed by interment at Queen’s Lawn Cemetery. If desired, memorial contributions to the Humane Society of Greater Niagara would be sincerely appreciated by the family. www.smithsfh.com
I NTEGERBOOKS .
B OOKKEE p ING services available for small to medium size businesses. Specialized in Service industry and property management. Please Contact Shushma. Email: integerbooks4@gmail. com phone number 647-221-5569
CELEBRATE RECOVERY STRUGGLING WITH HURTS, HANG-UpS OR HABITS? “Celebrate Recovery (CR)” 12 step Christian Recovery for Healing, Help and Hope. ALL WELCOME! Wednesdays at 7 pm. Forestview Community Church, 132 Lake St, Grimsby. For info. or help, CR@forestviewcommunitychurch.ca 905945-9529
MASTER MASON: chimney repair, stucco, parging, brick restoration, stone, all cement finish work. Professional, reliable, excellent referrals. Estimates. Evan 905921-5226
T&G LANdSCApING
Lawn Maintenance, Sod and Lawn Work, Top Seeding Aerating & Fertilizing, Fences and Decks, Snowplowing, Fire wood for sale. Leaky Basement. Frank Tirimacco 905-651-4410 tgland@hotmail.com
CONCRETE Regular
Concrete, Colour Concrete, Stamped Concrete, Exposed Aggregate Driveways, Porches, Patios, Stairs, Sidewalks, Garage Floors, Leaky Basement. Repairs as well.
Serving Niagara Area for over 30 years. LpJ CONCRETE CONTRACTOR Call 905-651-9462
NICK ELIA RENOVATIONS
Over 40 years of experience in painting, flooring, basic plumbing, landscaping, deck and fences. Certified home inspector. Free estimates 905-741-6695 905-730-1387 nickanthonyelia@ gmail.com www.nickelia renovations.com
Duna Handyman
Professional Painting flooring and a lot more. Removing popcorn ceiling and replacing with California knockdown or smooth ceiling. Most of your home needs. dunajozef6@gmail.com 905-730-1387
GARdEN CLEANUpS
* Weeding
* Pruning * Tree Trimming * Shrub Removal * Edging
* Mulching * Free Quotes * Insured • Landscape design. deck repairs/ construction 289.407.2325 Based in Grimsby
SpECIALIzEd IN CARpENTRy - Painting, Small renovations, Fence & Decks. Hardwood & Vinyl Flooring, Power washing. Senior discounts. Serving all West Niagara. Call Angelo 289439-1485
HVAC Licensed Gas Technician • Installation, Service Maintenance
• Heating, Cooling, Gas Lines • Local Free Quotes • References upon request. Call Blake 365-889-7838
• Roofing • Siding
• Eavestrough
• Gutter Guard
• Soffit
• Fascia 30 years experience! Mike 905-598-5355
RUBBISH & JUNK REMOVAL. Call Ken 905-973-3235
Offering Housekeeping, Haircuts, Personal and Respite Care. Call 226938-1457 for details.
ELVIS, TOM JONES ANd CHEER. Casablanca Hotel Grimsby Nov. 3rd. Tickets for dinner and show $86.95 + taxes and fees. 647-688-4822
We buy Cars Any year make or model Fair and Honest Top prices paid Call ray 905-321-9121
WWW.WBUR.CA
CARS, TRUCKS, old farm machinery for scrap or repair. We pay cash. Flatbed service. 905-386-6181 or 289-686-5059.
Established 1841
Services include traditional ground disposition, cremation ground burial, scattering garden, columbarium inurnment, pet section and natural green burial.
O % financing available
St. John’s Public Cemetery is a non-profit, non-denominational historic public cemetery serving Ontario.
Superintendent Brian G. Culp 905-641-5945 (Cell) bculp2@cogeco.ca
100% Niagara owned & operated
Our Team:
Publisher - Mike Williscraft
mike@wn3.ca
289-442-4244
General Manager - Catherine Williscraft
Sales Consultant - Erica Huisman
Graphics - Donna Wisnoski
NewsNow is owned & operated by 1602207 Ontario Ltd.
Office Location
1 Mountain Street, Grimsby, ON, L3M 3J6 Ph: 289-235-9500 Ph: 289-235-7848
NewsNow is published EVERY Thursday & delivered to all homes & businesses in Niagara West, 29,006
Will that be one or two
Fundraising to give back to local charities in the community, the St. Helen of the Cross Knights of Columbus Council 15999, with help from the St. Helen Parish CWL, has a busy September with community barbecues planned at local elementary schools including last week at St. John Catholic Elementary School. (L-R) Knights Tom Shepherd, George Savage, Kevin Kiley, Grand Knight Ray Francoeur and students Finley Roddick, 7, and McKenna Roddick, 11. McDonald - Photo
Grimsby Fire will kick off the fire prevention season with its open house planned for this Saturday, Sept. 21 at Station 2 at 167 Mountain St.
Lincoln and West Lincoln will follow, but Grimsby launches the series of events with demonstrations, a live burn, fire safety lessons plus face painting, BBQ and cake, balloon animals and much more - plus the trucks. Always a fun - but highly informative event for young and old a like. See you there!
M.W.
It took me a solid seven hours to work my way through Grimsby’s Sept. 5 council video - going back and forth to match up topics of conversation to points in written reports and other details from previously written stories.
In the end, the vast majority of that time - say, all but 90 minutes - was a waste of time, but still needed to be done to either understand or be able to process the topics.
The trio of councillorsVeronica Charrois, Jennifer Korstanje and Nick DiFlavio - were 100 per cent right, for different reasons, that the mid-term report and boat load of administrative changes should have been deferred to allow for proper processing and vetting.
No, not vetting by legal counsel - as was noted repeatedly throughout the meeting - but by councillors themselves and the public, to some degree.
DiFlavio’s reasoning, as noted in the Page 12 story, was the most on point. A staff report, from the podium, with overheads, going through before/afters on each point was needed. Really, it should have had a special, one-topic meeting set up in its honour.
To be clear, there is nothing bad, sneaky or underhanded in any of the changes. They are all wellintentioned, but it did need changes.
The problem, as this council has repeated like a skipping record, is many of
the changes are being put in place to try to streamline its processes due to the actions of one councillor.
But that issue is a microcosm of why many of these other issues were pushed through. It created a Catch 22 in that they didn’t want to extend more time invested in measures designed to streamline.
So, to summarize, the changes weren’t horrible, but the process was poorly executed. I mention this with great caution, as today’s administration is doing good things, but bringing a major document direct to council with no proper review smells of the Harry regime too much. Nobody wants any part of that, so better planning needs to be done for major initiatives. With that, I’ll move on.
At the very end of the near-four-hour meeting, after a lengthy closed session, council voted to support the planning department’s report - which was not made public - and to push for a settlement in the
matter of 30 Viking Drive. Here’s my issue on that. The only decision that needed to be made on the property should deal with having one or two bulldozers level it.
Kevin Antonides, former Committee of Adjustment chair summed things up nicely.
“I’m disappointed to hear that Council decided not to support and defend the decision of the Committee of Adjustment, which is comprised of five citizens that they appointed to independently hear all the evidence when considering a request to amend the provisions of the Bylaw. In the case of 30 Viking Dr., the Committee not only heard evidence from Town staff in person and from their written reports, but also considered the concerns raised by no less than 6 abutting neighbours who are / will be most affected by the decision if this house were to legally remain as it was constructed. Any reasonable person would agree that the decision to deny the requests for the four (4) variances (front yard setback, rear yard setback, rear yard encroachment, and lot coverage) was an appropriate one. The Committee felt that, in aggregate, the requested variances did not meet the four tests of the Planning Act, specifically that it “be desirable for the appropriate development or use of the land, building or structure”.
About 200 volunteers will be hard at work this Saturday to help pull off the annual Beamsville Lions Food Drive in support of Community Care of West Niagara.
On Sept. 21, the two organizations will team up to cover every address in the municipality which leaves a donation at its door with scores of volunteers who will drive routes, pick up goods, sort and ship in the neighbourhood of 25,000 lbs of food - if this year’s results approach those from 2023.
Five key areas of need this year are: kids’ snacks for school (peanut free); toilet paper; cooking oil; pasta sauce and; baking items (flour, sugar, etc.)
With about 200 volunteers needed to pull off the event, register now to help on: communitycarewn.ca
Trivia buffs can try their hand at Grimsby’s Knights of Columbus (KofC) Our Lady of the Lake 4917’s Trivia Knight Game Night at Mountain Ridge Community Centre, 105 Mountain Rd. this Saturday night, Sept. 21. Participants can enter on their own or with a team. The cost of the event is $25 per
person with tables of eight costing $175.
As part of the event, there will also be raffles, a penny sale and 50/50 tickets. The KofC will also have food and a cash bar available for attendees. The event runs from 7-10 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. For tickets, call Bell at 289-696-5171.
