NewsNow E-Edition June 6, 2024

Escarpment crossing under scope

Residents

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

“Get on with it” was a repeated refrain from the 200-plus Niagara West residents who turned out for a Public Information Centre dealing with the proposed Niagara Escarpment crossing last Wednesday, May 29.

The session, which was held at the West Niagara fairgrounds, was part of the terms of reference development for the project’s Comprehensive Environmental Assessment (CEA).

Scott Fraser, Niagara Region’s associate director of transportation planning handled most of the presentation and fielded many questions from

See CROSSING, Page 8

Grimsby BIA approves autonomy plan in 33-7 vote

The Grimsby Downtown Business Improvement Area board was told by Grimsby council to seek member approval for its proposed financial autonomy plan and that was achieved during a special annual general meeting last week with a

While there weren’t nearly that many voters in the room for the vote, it turned out the BIA board had altered its procedural bylaws to remove protections under its proxy voting procedure to ensure one person had to attend a meeting to cast one vote.

first time one person could carry as many votes as they could gather and members could cast absentee ballots, removing the need to attend a meeting at all when matters are discussed.

“When the BIA Board approved the Procedural By-law on April 15,

2024, any discussion of proxy voting was removed. As a result, and in the absence of a Proxy Vote Policy, it is a grey area and the Board determined how to handle proxy voting,” said Christina Davidson, Town of Grimsby’s communication specialist.

See PROXY, Page 3

Residents scoured maps showing the ecarpment crossing study area at a public meeting last Wednesday at West Niagara Fairgrounds, including (L to R) Ada Jacque, Hilda Stuive and Chuck Bindnar. Williscraft - Photo

PROXY

From Page 1

BIA president Mark Wood opened the financial autonomy portion of the meeting by noting the process was “time sensitive” and, if any questions cannot get asked, they could be answered in discussions after the meeting.

This matter arose later when questions were cut off after only 10 minutes.

Before that, BIA treasurer Daniel Vandersteen outlined the financial autonomy plan highlights, a key action of which he noted was to be able to get payments in the hands of suppliers more quickly.

In the past, it was suggested suppliers were not happy because payments were late. Town staff asked if any supplier with a concern could be passed on to staff to troubleshoot the situation but no information came forward.

At the meeting, Vandersteen acknowledged that no suppliers had every been paid late or were missed.

“The perceived limitations of the

current system is it does have longer lead time but, I want to be very clear, the Town has never missed a payment. There are no outstanding invoices. There has never been a complaint from any vendors that the Town didn’t pay them,” Vandersteen for the first time.

He also outlined during his presentation the series of new, annual expenses which the BIA would incur for services currently performed by the Town on an in-kind basis.

During questions, former BIA president Mike Williscraft asked why the board would want to pay even $100 more for services when there is no need - let alone costs the Town’s finance department estimates could be as much as $16,000$18,000 from the BIA’s $89,000 budget.

Vandersteen said discussions are ongoing with the Town to figure out what that impact will be.

“Don’t you think that is a very important thing to find out before you actually vote (to change the process)?” asked Luca Vitali, who

served multiple terms on the board and acted as its treasurer.

“If the Town decides to no longer offer those in-kind services, it has nothing to do with this. It’s not going to change it,” said Wood.

Williscraft noted there only seemed to be one real change as a result of the new process.

“It seems the only tangible change is that the (BIA) will have a credit card in trade for more responsibility, added annual cost and added liability. I just don’t understand it. Even if it was only $1,000 more per year, is it worth giving money away that the board does not need to give away?’ asked Williscraft.

Although the reimbursement process has been used by the BIA since it was struck in 1970, Vandersteen said continuing with it was “an unsustainable practice”.

Board member Christine Kempf said the credit card was needed so members did not have to put any expense on a personal credit card.

“Ladies Night has a $500 gift card. I go into a store and use my

personal credit card. I then submit it to the Town. I do wait, probably until I get the signatures...I think I waited about three weeks,” said Kempf.

“Should I have to put $500 on my personal credit card?”

Williscraft said he would offer his personal card for all BIA expenditures and absorb any interested incurred himself if it saved the BIA $10,000 or $20,000.

There was no consideration of that offer.

Shortly after this exchange, Wood cut off questions.

“This is an AGM where we’re supposed to have a say,” said Vitali.

“Yes, which I have control over,” said Wood.

“That’s not right,” Vitali interjected. At that point the vote was called.

After the board approved a motion to proceed with the financial autonomy plan, Wood confirmed the vote was 33-7 and he said he was unaware how many votes were cast by proxies. An inquiry to Town staff for the vote breakdown was not answered by press time.

Music at The Manor launches June 23

Nelles Manor Museum will kick off a new concert series June 23.

Join our volunteers for a new and exciting fundraising event to celebrate summer’s arrival.

Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for two hours of restful and refreshing entertainment on the manor lawn. Genres will vary from fiddling, jazz, contemporary and Celtic. Mark your calendars for June 23, Old Tyme Fiddlers; July 7, Michelle Headly; Aug. 5, Shari Vander-

molen Trio; Aug. 18, Natalie Walker from 2-4 p.m. Tickets are: adults $10 per performance or $30 for the full series. Students $5 per performance. Children are free. Light refreshments of lemonade and cookies are included in the price and extra servings will be available for a nominal fee. All proceeds are designated to go to the ongoing maintenance of the Manor. Tickets available at the door or through the Nelles Manor Eventbrite link.

A joint enforcement initiative resulted in nine vehicles being pulled off local roads and multiple charges laid.

On Friday, May 24, Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS), Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS), Hamilton Police Ser-

Housing & Affordability Community Conversation

What is your experience living in Grimsby?

Join us for a community conversation about housing needs, access, and affordability that will inform the Official Plan review.

This event is free and does not require registration.

Date: June 13

Time: 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Location: Elizabeth Street Pump House (447 Elizabeth Street) Visit letstalkgrimsby.ca/officialplan to learn more!

vice (HPS), Ministry of Transportation (MTO) and the Town of Lincoln partnered for a joint enforcement initiative focusing on commercial motor vehicle enforcement.

In response to community concern involving increased commercial motor vehicle traffic in Lincoln and West Lincoln, the focus of this initiative was to identify commercial motor vehicles intentionally bypassing the Vineland Inspection Station and to conduct in-depth vehicular inspections to ensure compliance with road safety standards, as legislated by the Province of Ontario.

In total, 19 vehicles were comprehensively inspected, resulting in nine vehicles being removed from the

highway after significant safety concerns were identified. Out of service defects that were identified include load security, suspension issues, brake defects, as well as charges for weight infractions and improper inspection reports were issued.

The NRPS remains committed to achieving its identified goal of enhancing road safety, as outlined in the 2022-2025 Strategic Plan.

Members of the public wishing to report traffic complaints are encouraged to contact our Traffic Enforcement Unit (TEU) by telephone at 905-6884111, option #3, extension #1025555 or by email at: trafficcomplaints@ niagarapolice.ca

"Zoi and her team were the perfect solution to my house sale challenges. Zoi’s strategic planning and staging, Kate’s attentive and reassuring follow-ups, and Caitlyn’s administrative support made for a quick sale (an offer made in two days) and a relatively stress-free process – it was actually fun! I absolutely recommend Zoi and team for Niagara real estate needs. They were such a pleasure to work with, and my quick sale for just over asking price has allowed me to buy my next home and plan for the next stage in my life. Thank you Team!” - Barbara B.

CROSSING

From Page 1 residents in attendance.

The first draft of terms of reference (ToR) have been finalized and consultation has begun, said Fraser.

As of last Thursday, May 30, the full draft of the ToR can be reviewed on the region’s website, with feedback open until July 12.

“When finalized, an updated report will be shared with regional council after which the terms of reference will be submitted to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks,” said Fraser.

The very first question asked of the presenters hit to the heart of concerns for many as far as the Bartlett option is concerned.

“In the initial directive there was two things mentioned and it was to direct traffic away from residential areas. By using Park (Road), you’re not doing that. There are three large retirement homes there...and new construction that will front onto this (Bartlett),” said one Grimsby resident.

“The Bartlett extension violates that first directive,” added the speaker who noted that the Niagara bound exit off the QEW was not suitable for truck traffic and was “barely suitable for a car.”

Fraser noted that the

speaker’s general assessment was correct and he clarified that a more accurate wording would be to say the goal of an escarpment crossing would be “to limit impact” on residents since, no matter where it went, there would be some impact.

For many in attendance who want to see more action on the file, the length of time it will take to work through the process was of significant concern.

Fraser said the CEA process will take 2-3 years with about eight years behind that, if things go well, before a crossing could get done. The major fly in that ointment is the fact there is currently zero funding from the provincial or federal governments for the project.

“Right now, we’re just spinning our wheels,” said one resident, who noted he wanted to see things planned right so no bumps in the road materialize in 10 years which send the whole thing back to Square 1.

“We talked about this 38 years ago,” he said.

Fraser told the crowd the CEA is a foundational part of the process which should ensure the project is successful down the road.

“We need to complete this study to meet the (planning) tests.” said Fra-

ser, noting Indigenous communities, environmental, area municipalities, and residents will all be part of the consultation process.

“We just don’t want it to be another 15-20 years with nothing being done,” said another speaker, noting that safety in Grimsby and Beamsville are an ongoing problem.

“The challenges that you’ve identified are the impetus for this project,” said Fraser.

“I understand that it is a problem today and this is a long-term solution and longer term than is acceptable for everybody in this room I am sure. That is excellent feedback and something I

will take back.”

Another speaker followed up with a similar opinion.

“I would venture to guess this has been on the books for 50 years. Politicians and bureaucrats keep kicking this football down the road. This is a public safety issue for Grimsby Road 12 and Beamsville,” said the speaker.

“You’re a dog chasing your own tail. You know it’s going to the Bartlett (Road) access. That’s what it was designed for. It’s built and all ready to go. Get this project on the road. Fifteen to 20 years? Most of us aren’t even going to be around to see this concluded.”

“I acknowledge that and

Spring

Into

say thank you,” said Fraser. “Moving this forward is why we are here tonight.”

Another speaker addressed a concern with wildlife that will be displaced no matter where construction goes.

To that, Fraser said consideration for all wildlife along the escarpment will be part of the CEA process. While Bartlett was recognized, generally, as the best option, questions arose why other areas were part of the study process.

The CEA must examine all viable alternative,” said Fraser, of what is considered a “new planning initiative”, adding that “the need must be shown as well.”

Summer!

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appreciation for the year’s $1,625.

Bethesda Community Services – which is dedicated to serving children and youth with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities in our communities - has been named a recipient of Lincoln’s Grow Prosper Belong Fund for a second year in a row.

At Monday’s council meeting, chief executive officer, Paul McGowan voiced his

“On behalf of all of the Bethesda staff, our board of directors, and most importantly, the individuals that we support, I do want to pass along our sincere thank you to you,” he said, adding

that the Town had regularly checked in during the pandemic.

“The simple question of, ‘are you guys okay?’ meant the world to us and it made us feel like we were part of a community. So we thank you

The Grow Prosper Fund provides financial assistance to not-for-profit, community organizations within Lincoln for events, projects, and/ or programs that have a definitive start and completion date within the year of receiv-

Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) in Lincoln

EDUCATIONAL WEBINAR SERIES FOR PROVIDERS

Town of Lincoln Council passed By-law No. 2023-68, a By-law to implement and mandate a 4% MAT on all:

• Traditional hotel accommodations (28 days or less), effective April 1, 2024

• Short-term accommodations (28 days or less), effective July 1, 2024

This tax is to be applied exclusively to the accommodation portion on the guest invoice.

What is MAT?

MAT is a mandatory tax aimed at providing essential funding to support one of Lincoln’s most significant economic sector, tourism, and spur further economic growth and job creation. It will help fund destination marketing and tourism development initiatives. The MAT program, authorized by the Stronger, Healthier Ontario Act 2017, empowers municipalities to levy a transient accommodations tax. The MAT applies to the sale of overnight accommodations only and is paid for by the visitor. The revenues from MAT will help fund the Destination Marketing Organization.

MAT Collection and Remittance Webinars?

To assist our local accommodations providers in better understanding their responsibilities as it pertains to MAT remittance, Town Staff have organized a series of educational webinars with the Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association (ORHMA), Lincoln’s designated collection agent for MAT. The webinars will run on:

• Tuesday, June 11 – 1 p.m.

• Tuesday, June 18 – 1 p.m.

• Tuesday, June 25 – 6 p.m.

The ORHMA team will provide comprehensive training on the remittance activities required by local hotel operators to comply with Lincoln’s newly adopted MAT By-law. Additionally, they will outline a timeline of expected tasks and deliverables leading up to your first remittance date.

Dr. Danielle Harkness Veterinarian

From a young age, Danielle dreamed of being a veterinarian. In grade school, she wrote a letter to her future self expressing this dream.

She forgot about it until her graduation from the Ontario Veterinary College when her father gave it to her.

Dr. Danielle Harkness lives locally with her husband, young daughter, and many pets. She is looking forward to joining our team in July.

Legislation and Regulations

Immigration and Citizenship Veteran’s Affairs

Income Security Programs CPP, OAS, GIS Canada Revenue Agency Commemorative Certificates

NRP identify alleged murderer, no charges laid

Following an extensive investigation, the Niagara Regional Police Service has identified the alleged killer in a Vineland homicide cold case investigation.

On Saturday May 8, 1999, at about 5 p.m., uniform officers responded to the area of Victoria Avenue near Eighth Avenue following reports of a partially dressed woman’s body in a roadside ditch.

Investigation determined that the deceased was a victim of homicide, and she was subsequently identified as 26-year-old Nadine Gurczenski of Toronto. DNA evidence was collected from the victim, however it could not be linked to an individual at that time.

Despite an extensive investigation, no suspects were identified, and the case has remained unsolved since 1999.

The NRPS Homicide Unit considered advancements in DNA technology and implemented the use of Investigative genetic genealogy to further this investigation. These tools, combined with tra-

ditional police investigation techniques, has resulted in the identification of a suspect alleged to be responsible for the murder of Nadine Gurczenski.

Joseph Archie “Raymond” Brousseau, formerly of New Liskeard, ON was 34 years of age at the time of this incident. He died in 2017.

Based on the investigation and evidence collected, if alive today, Raymond Brousseau would have been arrested and charged with second degree murder.

Since the suspect is deceased, no formal charges can be laid, and the matter cannot be litigated at trial, say police. Through the course of their investigation, detectives learned that Brousseau was employed as a truck driver and travelled extensively throughout Canada and the U.S. for work, He also had ties to Quebec.

The Niagara Regional Police Homicide/Cold Case Unit would like to acknowledge the dedicated work of the original investigators in 1999 and others that have contributed to this investigation

over the years.

The Service would also like to express their appreciation to the Toronto Police Homicide - Cold Case Unit, the Centre of Forensic Sciences, Office of the Chief Coroner, and the Ministry of the Attorney General for their invaluable assistance and guidance. The contributions of these law enforcement partners were critical in bringing this investigation to a successful conclusion.

Investigators would also like thank the Gurczenski family for their patience and ongoing support.

Nadine’s husband Paul, daughter Heather, son Nash, and the rest of her family state:

“We want to recognize that Nadine was an incredibly important part of our family. She meant more than a news headline. She was a beautiful young woman inside and out, mother, wife, and now grandmother who had her whole life ripped away from her and everyone who loved her. She is very loved and missed every day.”

LIGHT IN, HEAT OUT

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HAPPENING IN GRIMSBY

~ June 13 - 15 ~ Downtown Grimsby

Tunes & treats all part of Happening fun

Summer cannot be far behind when plans roll out for the annual Happening in Grimsby festivities, which will overtake downtown from June 13-15.

The fun will kick off next Thursday with the Grimsby Farmers Market from 3-7 p.m. and a concert in Coronation Park by Music on The Forty, who will close out the evening. Friday, the Lunch on The Lawn at Coronation Park is always a popular event. That starts at 11:30 a.m.

Main Street will be busy with line dance instruction, inflatables and food trucks starting at 6:30 p.m.

The Country Junkies will take to the Main Street stage at 7 p.m.

The headliner, popular U2 tribute band Desire will take things over at 9 p.m.

All that sets the stage for a very busy Saturday which will include a host of activities from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

The Vendor Alley on Main, between Christie and Patton ia always a big draw. Coronation Park will have entertainment throughout the day as will Main Street between Christie and Ontario streets.

Food trucks, inflatables and live music will be part of the mix throughout the core. See HAPPENING, Page 18

sam.oosterhoffco@pc.ola.org

the taste of Italy

New Features every week

20 20 24 24

THURSDAY JUNE 13TH

3 - 7pm Main Street: Grimsby Farmers’ Market

7 - 9pm Coronation Park: Hamilton All Star Jazz Band

FRIDAY JUNE 14TH

11:30am Coronation Park: Lunch on the Lawn

6:30pm Main Street Line Dancing, Inflatables, Food trucks

7 - 8:45pm Country Junkies

9 - 11pm Desire U2 Tribute Band

SATURDAY JUNE 15TH

10 - 5pm Vendor Alley, Food trucks, Inflatables

10:30 - 3:30pm Coronation Park Pete & anna Music, Calvin the Magician, RDC Dance Studio, Bonnie

11 - 5pm Main Street

BT Big Band, WNSS Drum line, WNSS Big Band, RDC Dance Studio, Kinetic Dance Studio, DJ Tanner

5 - 6pm Hillbilly Creek

7 - 8:40pm Moonlight Company

9 - 11pm Jonesy

Shop

HAPPENING

From Page 15

The Main Street Stage will be non-stop runs from 3-close with DJ Tanner at 3 p.m.; Hillbilly Creek at 5 p.m.; Moonlight Company at 7 p.m. and Jonesy as the show closer starting at 9 p.m.

The Main Street area will be closed from Thursday afternoon to Saturday night and, like last year, it will be licensed for sale of beer, wine and drinks.

A free water stand will also be available in front fo Giant Tiger.,

Lincoln council readies for AMO

By Tara Lindemann For NewsNow

While some are preparing for summer, Lincoln council is strategizing for the Association of Municipalities of Ontario’s (AMO) annual August conference.

At AMO, Council delegates from 444 municipalities network and vie for the brief attentions of - and garner possible support - from provincial ministers and representatives in an effort to advocate for their municipalities.

Director, Economic Development and Communication, Paul Di Ianni, presented a memo to council on Monday to decide on delegation priorities before submitting requests by June 7.

On the docket for

consideration were:

• Niagara Escarpment Commission development application processes;

• Community hub funding possibilities at Beamsville District Secondary School;

• Cyber security and software support, and;

• Infrastructure funding to support growth and non-growth-related projects.

Coun. Lynn Timmers suggested adding heritage to the list to extend time given to municipalities to strengthen property status listed to heritage registers - or risk losing them to development as per Bill 23, the More Homes Built Faster Act.

Di Ianni confirmed it would be added.

MARK WASILEWSKI

Re/Max

Escarpment Realty

Broker

Direct: 905.541.3882

Office: 905.545.1188

Email: marktherealestateguy1@gmail.com 860 Queenston Road Stoney Creek, L8G 4A8

GRIMSBY LEGION

233 Elizabeth St., Grimsby • 905-945-8421 Facebook: Grimsby Legion

June Events

June 14

Karaoke 8-11 pm

June 21

W5 (band) 8-11 pm

Saturday Night Dance

DJ - 9 pm - 1 am

$3 cover

NOTICE OF A HEARING

Enbridge Gas Inc. has applied for a new certificate of public convenience and necessity for the Town of Lincoln

Enbridge Gas Inc. (Enbridge Gas) is asking the OEB for:

• An order cancelling and superseding parts of Enbridge Gas’s existing certificates of public convenience and necessity (certificates) related to the former municipalities that formed the Town of Lincoln and replacing them with a new certificate to construct works to supply natural gas in the current Town of Lincoln. The new certificate is needed to address municipal boundary changes associated with past municipal amalgamations and annexations.

YOU SHOULD KNOW

THE ONTARIO ENERGY BOARD WILL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING

There are three types of OEB Hearings: oral, electronic and written. If you have a preference for the type of hearing, you can write to us to explain why. During this hearing, we will question the applicant about its case. We will also hear questions and arguments from participants that have registered as Intervenors. After reviewing all the evidence, we will decide whether to approve this application.

HAVE YOUR SAY

You have the right to information about this application and to participate in the process. Visit www.oeb.ca/participate and use file number EB-2024-0168 to:

• Review the application

• Apply to become an intervenor

• File a letter with your comments

IMPORTANT DATES

You must engage with the OEB on or before June 17, 2024 to:

• Provide input on the hearing type (oral, electronic or written)

• Apply to be an intervenor

If you do not, the hearing will move forward without you, and you will not receive any further notice of the proceeding.

PRIVACY

If you write a letter of comment, your name and the content of your letter will be put on the public record and the OEB website. If you are a business or if you apply to become an intervenor, all the information you file will be on the OEB website.

LEARN MORE

Ontario Energy Board /TTY: 1 877-632-2727

Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM oeb.ca/participate

This hearing will be held under section 8 of the Municipal Franchises Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. M.55. Ce document est aussi disponible en français.

Enbridge Gas Inc. 1 866-763-5427

Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM enbridgegas.com

Community

Grimsby Legion Supports YOUR Local

NOTICE OF INFORMATION SESSION AND PUBLIC MEETING REGARDING COMMUNITY BENEFITS CHARGES

Take notice that on Monday, June 17, 2024, Council Members from the Town of Grimsby will hold a public meeting regarding the proposed Community Benefits Charges that will be applied to select developments throughout the Town.

It is proposed that enactment of the Community Benefits Charges By-law by Council will occur on a date subsequent to the public meeting of June 17.

Community Benefits Charges is a new source of funding for growthrelated capital expenditures enacted under the Planning Act and these charges can be levied against developments with 5 or more storeys, and 10 or more residential units.

With respect to the Community Benefits Charges Strategy, the Planning Act requires the municipality to consult with such persons and public bodies as the municipality considers appropriate. Public meetings provide the public an opportunity to comment on the Community Benefits Strategy and proposed by-law, both of which were made available on the Town’s website as part of report FIN-24-14 at the May 21, 2024, meeting of Council.

All interested parties are invited to attend the in-person public meeting:

Date: Monday, June 17, 2024 Time: 6 p.m.

Location: 160 Livingston Ave, Grimsby, ON L3M 0J5

Any person may attend the public meeting and make written or verbal representation either in support of or in opposition to the By-law. Written submissions are invited and should be directed to Clerks Department at clerks@grimsby.ca on or before 12 p.m. (noon) Friday, June 14, 2024. Any person who wishes to speak at the Council meeting must complete the Delegation Request Formeforms.grimsby.ca/Delegation-request-form - on or before 12 p.m. (noon) on Friday, June 14, 2024. Written comments received prior to the meeting and submissions made at the public meeting will be considered by Council prior to the enactment of the new Community Benefits Charges By-law. All submissions received become part of a public record.

Town of Grimsby, 160 Livingston Ave, Grimsby, ON L3M 0J5

Grimsby BIA triples contribution to annual Happening event

By Joanne McDonald For NewsNow

During an update of Grimsby Downtown BIA’s Q1 budget at last week special annual general meeting, it was noted the annual contribution to Happening In Grimsby had jumped considerably from its traditional amount of $8,000.

“I understand there was $30,000 budgeted for Happening (in Grims by) this year which, historically, the DIA used to match what the Town put in which was $8,000. We (the previous board) bumped it to $10,000 for the centennial year but I heard it was $30,000 now. What was the rationale for tripling that?”

asked Mike Williscraft, who was president of the board last term.

BIA treasurer Daniel Vandersteen said the contribution went up because the event, which is not run by the BIA, had a hard time getting sponsors.

“The rationale for tripling that was, as discussed in January when we presented this budget, was we really believe in the festival. It has financially struggled a lot and we

Williscraft asked if there was any -

Vandersteen confirmed there was

Grimsby Garden Club 60th Anniversary Garden Tour June 22 2024 10:00am - 4:00pm

Truper McBride named new West Lincoln CAO

Truper McBride has accepted the position of chief administrative officer (CAO) at Twp. of West Lincoln.

His first day on the job will be July 15.

As CAO, McBride will be responsible for the leadership and general management of the corporation, acting as a key advisor and liaison to council, making policy, service level and strategic business planning recommendations and facilitating the implementation of council decisions.

“On behalf of council, I would like to welcome Truper to West Lincoln. His valuable experience and skillset give him a unique understanding of the needs, challenges and opportunities

facing our community. I know he will serve our township well, and I very much look forward to working with him.

TRUPER McBRIDE

I would also like to thank Donna DeFilippis for the great work she has accomplished in the interim,” said Mayor Cheryl Ganann.

In addition to his regular duties, he will represent the township with community partners, external agencies and other levels of government, and champion the programs and policies of council.

“I am thrilled to be joining the Township of West Lincoln team. West Lincoln is in a significant time of transformation, facing

the demands of growth and provincial housing interests while preserving its strong agricultural heritage. Great communities are born through thoughtful vision and intelligent design, and I look forward to collaborating with Council and Staff to build upon the great work they have already achieved,” said McBride.

McBride brings with him more than 21 years of senior leadership experience, most recently at the Municipality of Lakeshore where he held the positions of director of community and development services then CAO since 2019.

HAPPENING HAPPENING HAPPENING ROAD CLOSURE

is not one-sizefits-all, by listening to our clients and asking questions, we can recommend the right solutions for your unique hearing and financial needs.

Road Closure Saturday, June 15 6am-6pm

Closure Thursday, June 13 at 1pm until Sunday, June 16 at 6am Flow of traffic

Public Notice

Notice of Statutory Public Meeting

Regional Official Plan Amendment (ROPA-22-0002) 502 Winston Road, Town of Grimsby

Niagara Region will hold a Statutory Public Meeting for an application to amend the Niagara Official Plan (Application No. ROPA-22-0002) for 502 Winston Rd. in the Town of Grimsby. The purpose of the Statutory Public Meeting is for Regional Council to hear and consider public comments on the proposed Regional Official Plan Amendment (ROPA) in accordance with the provisions of Section 17 of the Planning Act R.S.O. 1990, as amended.

The amendment proposes to redesignate the subject lands at 502 Winston Rd. as illustrated on the location map on the right from ‘Unique Agricultural Area’ to a ‘Rural Area’ designation.

The site is currently occupied by a banquet hall/private club, associated parking lot and tennis court/playground. The banquet hall/ private club is serviced by municipal water and a private septic tank. A concurrent application for a Local Official Plan Amendment (LOPA) has also been submitted to the Town of Grimsby to redesignate the lands in the Town of Grimsby Official Plan. The LOPA and ROPA are being processed concurrently by the Town and Region.

The Statutory Public Meeting is scheduled for: June 12, 2024 at 1 p.m.

Hybrid meeting as part of the Region’s Planning and Economic Development Committee Meeting - in-person and virtual attendance Niagara Region Council Chamber 1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Thorold, ON

Have your say

Your feedback on the proposed amendment is welcomed and encouraged. Any person or agency may attend and make representation at the Statutory Public Meeting and/or make written submissions.

To provide input orally at the public meeting, either online or in-person, please pre-register with the Regional Clerk by sending an email to clerk@niagararegion.ca before 9 a.m. on Friday June 7, 2024.

2022 Niagara Region and its suppliers. Projection is UTM Zone 17N CSRS, NAD83. This map was compiled from various data sources. Niagara Region makes no representations or warranties whatsoever, either expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, reliability, currency or otherwise of the information show on this map.

Regional Official Plan Amendment (ROPA): Location Map

Public Notice

Notice of Statutory Public Meeting Continued

To provide written input to be considered at the public meeting, please either mail your comments to the Office of the Regional Clerk, Niagara Region, 1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Ontario, L2V 4T7, or email to clerk@niagararegion.ca by 9 a.m. on Friday June 7, 2024. Any written comments received either by mail or email and submitted to the Region, will be included in a future recommendation report prepared by staff for Council consideration, and will become part of the public record regarding the Regional Official Plan Amendment application.

To view a livestream of the meeting proceeding, without the ability to provide oral submissions, please visit niagararegion.ca/government/council

More information

Copies of the application and supporting documents for the proposed ROPA is posted on the Region’s website at niagararegion.ca/living/icp/policy-plan under application No. ROPA-22-0002.

For more information about the proposed ROPA, including information on appeal rights, please contact:

Alex Boekestyn, M.Sc.

Development Planner

Niagara Region

1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, PO Box 1042 Thorold, Ontario L2V 4T7 905-980-6000 ext. 3264 alex.boekestyn@niagararegion.ca File Number: ROPA-22-0002

f you need any accommodations for a disability to participate in meetings or events, please let us know in advance so that arrangements can be made in a timely manner.

Special accessibility accommodations and materials in alternate formats can be arranged by contacting Niagara Region’s Accessibility Advisory Coordinator at 905-685-4225 ext. 3252 or accessibility@niagararegion.ca

Legal Notice

The Planning Act

i. If you wish to be notified of the decision of the Council of the Regional Municipality of Niagara on the proposed Regional Official Plan Amendment, you must make a written request to the Clerk c/o Regional Clerk, Niagara Region, 1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, P.O. Box 1042, Thorold, Ontario, L2V 4T7, or email clerk@niagararegion.ca Such requests must include the name and address to which such notice should be sent.

ii. If a person or public body would otherwise have an ability to appeal the decision of the Council of the Regional Municipality of Niagara to the Ontario Land Tribunal but the person or public body does not make oral submissions at the public meeting or make written submissions to the Regional Municipality of Niagara before the proposed Regional Official Plan Amendment is adopted, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision.

iii. If a person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the Regional Municipality of Niagara before the proposed Regional Official Plan Amendment is adopted, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Land Tribunal unless, in the opinion of the Tribunal, there are reasonable grounds to add the person or public body as a party.

iv. Any personal information is collected under the authority of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P. 13 and may be used in an appendix of a staff report, published in the meeting agenda, delegation list and/or the minutes of the public meeting and made part of the public record. The Region collects this information for the purposes of making informed decisions on the relevant issues and to notify interested parties of Council’s decisions. It may also be used to serve notice of an Ontario Land Tribunal hearing. Information collected, used and disclosed is in accordance the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA). Questions about this collection and disclosure should be directed to the Access and Privacy Office at 905-980-6000, ext. 3779 or FOI@niagararegion.ca

Date Issued: May 25, 2024

West Lincoln Mayor Cheryl Ganann addresses the gathering at the Chamber of Commerce’s Mayor’s Luncheon, hosted last Friday at Gizio Recreation and Banquet Hall. Township of West Lincoln - Photo

West Lincoln plans future with 4-pillar strategic plan

While last year a strategic plan for West Lincoln was still on the drawing board, but now its four pillars have been set, Mayor Cheryl Ganann told those in attendance at the annual Mayor’s Luncheon last Friday.

“The first pillar is

ricultural legacy’ - with these first three Build, Champion and Enrich being underpinned by the fourth; ‘Advance organizational capacity and effectiveness’, a pillar that recognizes that we, as a municipality, are first and foremost Service providers to the businesses and residents making up our community,” said Ganann. The event was hosted by West Lincoln Cham ber of Commerce.

Green thumbs will be on display

There are some fabulous gardens managed by homeowners with green thumbs and some of them will be display June 22 at part of Grimsby Garden Club’s 60th garden tour. The tour runs from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and goes rain or shine.

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at eventbrite.ca or cash only at Trillium Hill Greenhouses, Objects to Desire andon the June 22 tour day - at a drive thru in the Grimsby Public Library Adelaide Street parking lot.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING INVITATION

The Board of Directors and Administration of GBF Community Services cordially invites you to join our Annual General Meeting.

DATE & TIME: Thursday, June 20, 2024 @ 6:00PM

LOCATION: St. Andrews Parish Hall, 7 St. Andrews, Grimsby, ON

Pre-register by sending an email to stacy@gbfgrimsby.com or by calling Stacy Elia at 905-309-5664 ext.33.

For those not attending, but wish to receive a copy of GBF’s Annual Report, please send an email to stacy@gbfgrimsby.com.

BEST in the WEST!

BUSINESS AWARDS

Please take a few moments to note your favourite people, businesses, snacks or service in Grimsby, Lincoln, West Lincoln or Winona. You can vote for your faves in dozens of categories, or just a few which you really love. The results of your survey winners will be published in July. Please include your name and address on the form so we know who is voting and nominating, one ballot per person. There is no fee to submit your votes. Drop your entries at NewsNow, 1 Mountain St., Grimsby OR scan/email to BITW@wn3.ca during regular business hours: 10-4 Monday - Friday or through the mail slot at the front door. Originals Only!

Best in The West Customer Service Award

The lifeblood of any business, large or small, is customer service. To recognize this precious resource, NewsNow is initiating a special category as part of its Best In The West readership survey.

Please take a few minutes to nominate someone with whom you had a great customer experience!!

In 200 words or less, please tell us how someone went the extra mile, was very pleasant to deal with (either during a one-time visit or over many years) and why you think this person would be worthy of Niagara West’s Best Customer Service Employee Award. NewsNow will publish the winner and the nominator will receive a $100 gift certificate for any restaurant in Niagara West. Drop your submission off at our Grimsby office, 1 Mountain St. or email it: mike@wn3.ca

OBITUARIES

LittLe, thomas Johnston

Thomas (Tom) Little passed peacefully at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, with his wife Ann, the love of his life, by his side to the very end at the age of 86. Tommy lived a full and happy life in Scotland and Canada, where he was loved and respected by all. Much loved father to Sharon and Tom, father-in law to Greg and Claire. Tommy will be greatly missed by his grandchildren Kirsty (Josh), Jordan (Rachelle), Jonathan and James. He was adored by his great grandchildren Shayleen, Ryland, Kenzie, Levi and the late Nyla. Also missed by brother and sister-in-law Jacky and Helen and by all his nephews and nieces to say nothing of his many good friends in both countries. The family thanks the dedicated staff in Ward C at WLMH and all those that were involved in Tommy’s care. Private cremation has taken place. A celebration of Tom’s life will take place at 417 Main Street West, Grimsby on Sunday, June 23, 2024, from 2-4 p.m. If desired, memorial contributions to McNally House Hospice would be sincerely appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-945-2755. www.smithsfh.com

LAMPMAN, Doris Lorraine (nee Fretz)

August 26, 1937May18, 2024

Predeceased by Husband Lorne. Mother of Jerry (Marion), Dwayne (Deceased), Mark (Deceased), Wayne, Philip (Garril). Grandmother of Christina (Deceased), Jeremy, Steven, Joshua. Sister of Marilyn Konkle (Deceased), Betty Webb (Walt). Survived by many nieces & nephews. Doris Donated her body to McMaster University Education Program in anatomy where she will be teaching doctors for the next 3-10 years. Donations to that program would be greatly appreciated.

OBITUARIES

HAWKINS, joyce

Joyce Hawkins passed away at St. Catharines General Hospital on May 24th, 2024, after just celebrating her 74th birthday.

Joyce was born on May 18th, 1950, to Benjamin and Ethel Craig. She was the youngest of 5 siblings, Phoebe, Meryl, Edward, and Robert. Joyce lived in Orangeville, ON until she moved to Beamsville, ON in 1995 with her husband William Hawkins due to her employment relocation.

Joyce was a Civil Servant with the Ontario Ministry of Transportation for 34 years and retired in 2004. Joyce and William had 2 children, William (Donna) Hawkins, Clint (Shian) Cranwell At her passing, Joyce had 5 grandchildren, Kassie (Jason), Katie, Kolby, Clayton (Reegan), and Brady (Krystal). Joyce also had 6 greatgrandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Joyce was extremely devoted to her kids and especially her Grandchildren. Joyce loved to read and took tremendous pride in her house. Joyce’s athletic prowess was on display with her numerous trophies she accumulated during her life and often took credit for other family members success with the “tips” she provided. Together, Joyce and William were dedicated to supporting their family with whatever they needed and giving them many opportunities.

Later in life, William and Joyce travelled to Myrtle Beach every year where they enjoyed the pool, golf, and the beach. Joyce loved flowers and was happiest when she was in her garden, if there were contests, she would win a trophy for her green thumb.

Joyce was adored by so many people and has left a lasting impression that will last a lifetime. A Celebration of Life for family and friends will be held at Ball’s Falls Conservation Area on June 8th, 2024, from 1pm-4pm. We invite all whose lives were touched by Joyce’s care to join us in honouring her memory. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada or Alzheimer Society of Canada.

In memory of our brother Harry who left the physical world, after many years of suffering, for a better place on April 2, 2024.

A place to go

A place to be Alone at last Now set me free I long to be…..?

An entity

…words written by Louie Zwarts

Rest in final peace Harry, until we meet again!

Love Jasper, Betty & Shirley

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

BIRTHDAY

GARDENING

June 13th

Love to our “Little Dude”, Mommy & Daddy

Love to our "Little Boo", Great-Grandma & Grandpa

cameronsherman796@gmail.com

APT. FOR RENT

GRIMSBy, 1 bdrm apartment, bright, quiet, smoke free, 4 plex. Stove, fridge, heat, water one parking space included. Suitable for mature tenant. References required. 905-9452848

BRIGHT ANd COzy 2

BEdROOM 1100 sq ft apartment downtown Grimsby. 2 min walk from groceries and boutiques. Second floor on a quiet cul de sac. 1 parking spot included. Fridge and stove. No laundry but close to laundromat. No pets due to severe allergies. First and last required. $1800 per month. 289-442-0352

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 905-945-9529

GARAGE SALE

JUNE 6 STREET SALE

Vintners Lane Grimsby Saturday June 8 8am to 10am Household items, some tools etc.. Advertise in the Classifieds or Business Directory. Call 289-235-9500

Field's of Green Landscaping/ Bobcat Service

• Grading

• Retaining Walls

• Driveways

• Walkways

• Asphalt Driveways

GRIMSBY

SpRING CLEAN-

Up, garden design, Garden edging and mulching. trees/bushes trim and cut. Clean gutters and evesdrop. Pressure washing. 289-668-9160

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

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

MASTER MASON: chimney repair, stucco, parging, brick restoration, stone, all cement finish work. Professional, reliable, excellent referrals.

Estimates. Evan 905921-5226

HOME IMpROVEMENTS

• Roofing • Siding

• Eavestrough

• Gutter Guard

• Soffit • Fascia 30 years experience! Mike 905-598-5355

SpECIALIzEd IN CARpENTRy - Painting, Small renovations, Fence & Decks. Hardwood & Vinyl Flooring, Power washing.Senior discounts. Serving all West Niagara. Call Angelo 289-439-1485

Stamped Concrete Exposed Aggregate Driveways, Porches, Patios, Stairs, sidewalks, Garage Floors, Leaky basements. Repairs as well. Serving Niagara Area for over 30 years. LPJ ConCrete ContraCtor Call 905-651-9462

HVAC Licensed Gas Technician • Installation, Service Maintenance

• Heating, Cooling, Gas Lines • Local Free Quotes • References upon request. Call Blake 365-889-7838

WELdING REpAIRS.

All makes, Miller, Lincoln, Esab, Gas, Electric, Diesel. Repaired units in stock. 289933-9330

905-973-3235

VEHICLES WANTED

CARS, TRUCKS, old farm machinery for scrap or repair. We pay cash. Flatbed service. 905-386-6181 or 289-686-5059. We buy Cars

Any year make or model Fair and Honest Top prices paid Call ray 905-321-9121 WWW.WBUR.CA

GREY ROCK MASONRY INC.

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

More chairs

The chairs initially set up for last Wednesday’s Public Information Centre for the Niagara Escarpment Crossing Comprehensive Environmental Assessment, so event organizers wheeled out several more stacks to give those in attendance a seat. Williscraft - Photo

Want to ensure a win? Alter the rules

In another move indicative of a familiar, U.S. pattern, it seems the Grimsby Downtown BIA wanted to ensure they could get what they wanted approved, so they dissolved restrictions on the association’s proxy voting. Prior to last week’s special meeting, which included a vote on a proposed financial autonomy plan, a proxy could cast a vote for one other eligible member; one person one vote. The current board removed all restrictions, so now one person would walk in with 10, 20 or more proxy votes. This is exactly what two people tried to do with the 2023 vote to install the board and they were none too happy when the Town clerk shut them down. So 50 people who never attended a meeting turned out to vote in this board. Now this board gerrymandered the process to suit their needs. M.W.

Let’s get on with it

With right around 200 area residents filling the auditorium West Niagara Fairgrounds, it was a good crowd for the Niagara Escarpment Crossing Comprehensive Environmental Assessment (CEA) public meeting, but I would have thought more would be interested.

You should be.

Next to the rebuild of West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, the crossing will be the single biggest economic driver Niagara West sees in the next 20-30 years - if done right.

More on that later...

At the meeting, there were predictable and 100 per cent correct comments about the use of Bartlett Road in Grimsby going against the grain of what has been built up in the area in the last 20 years.

For the long-term residents and readers of my offerings in this publication and others going back 20 years, you will have read not only is Bartlett/Park where the crossing should go, it should have already been in place for 50 years.

When Ross Hall got the crossing scuttled in the mid-1970s, it opened a time window which allowed subsequent Grimsby councils to approve rezonings and other measures to accommodate development in the Bartlett/Main East area which never should have been built there.

For example, Shalom Manor, as beautiful a facility as it is, should never have been at

that intersection. The office building kitty corner to that was supposed to be a Esso/ Tim Hortons as Beamsville has on Ontario Street.

Council of the day used the hubbub stirred up by neighbours in the area who were on the war path about noise, lights at night and potential littering to kibosh the gas station - which would be ideal for a transportation corridor - in favour of office space.

More recently, as was noted at last week’s meeting, there is a new 100-plus home development at the foot of the escarpment on Bartlett’s west side.

All the concerns about truck traffic being rerouted to the Bartlett route are legitimate. Mitigating concerns is what the new CEA process is supposed to do.

There will be an impact, but (as I type this a dump truck is attempting to stop at the Main Street lights with brakes wailing) it will still be a drop in the bucket to the ongoing impacts of trucks using Mountain streets in Grimsby and

Beamsville today.

Bartlett is set up for fourlane traffic. Any new portion would be designed to handle the vehicles of today extending south to Smithville. Safer. Simpler. Modern - not a make-do situation on roads that were initially horse trails.

What we see today at Bartlett and Main East was put in motion so the exact comments which materialized at last week’s meeting would be in the residents’ quivers when they push Niagara Region to look elsewhere for a truck route.

As noted, what they say makes sense and the Region’s representative at the session, Scott Fraser, did an excellent job of acknowledging those facts - and several others - offered by residents who were clearly agitated.

BUT, and there are always is one, the several people who got up and simply said, “Let’s go. Get on with it”, speak for the majority from whom I hear.

Decades and 10s of millions of dollars have been wasted on needless delay on this project. It should be fast-tracked, if anything. Yes, they need to include other areas to make the CEA legit, but everyone in that hall knew Bartlett will be the landing spot - as it was designed.

Even this CEA was botched in 2017 when it got shelved in a back room, arbitrary decision at Region. NO more. Time to get this project built.

MIKE WILLISCRAFT