> GSS girls’ curling team earns Zone 4 supremacy, on to Provincials /Pg 3 > GBF wraps up Fridays in Feburary fundraisers Pg 5 > WL need Santa parade help Pg 7 > GAMRU to host spaghetti dinner fundraiser Pg 10 Thursday, March 5, 2020 Vol. 8 Issue 45
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Hot debate gets Grimsby budget reduced Personality clashes, irate residents and some compromise at lengthy meeting By Mike Williscraft NewsNow In a rollercoaster of a budget debate, Grimsby council whittled its 2020 budget increase to 13.4 per cent on the Town portion - down from a projected 16.7 per cent. The increase represents $137 on an average home assessed at $444,000. When combined with taxes from the Niagara Region and school boards, these investments result in an overall increase of 7.15 per cent for Grimsby taxpayers - comprised of the Town’s tax bill impact comes in at 3.74 per cent and the region’s 3.41 per cent. In the meeting, which spanned more than fiveand-a-half hours, some budget items drew extensive debate, while others passed unchallenged. Some of the items approved, included: • An annual investment as part of Grimsby’s funding commitment to the redevelopment of West Lincoln Memorial Hospital $200,000; • On-demand public transit solutions, developed in partnership with Niagara Region and neighbouring communities - $250,000; • Shoreline protection to maintain and enhance pub-
Gary McClure signs in - with help from a town staffer who did not want to be named - as one of seven delegates in the first “open mic” Grimsby council has ever allowed as part of a meeting. Williscraft - Photo
lic access to the waterfront; • Investments in parks, tree planting, heritage protection and green initiatives - $59,000; • Increase in the legal budget to ensure new development is in the best interests of the community - $250,000; • Enhancements to valued community events like the annual tree lighting ceremony - $13,000; • Financially sustainable
solutions for snow removal - $130,000; • Public safety investments in fire services $91,000; • A dedicated Town economic development function to help Grimsby businesses start, stay and grow in the community $44,000 prorated with a September start date, but a $150,000 annual cost projected in 2021 and beyond, and; • Main Street East Cul-
tural Heritage Landscape Study or Heritage Conservation District Study $100,000. The casualties, either items which were deferred or eliminated, include: • New hire for communications - $113,000; •Infrastructure levy of $125,000 deferred to next year; • Wayfinding study $16,000 - referred to staff to find funding from within existing budgets,
and; • Council facility upgrades (mainly new chairs for council members and a microphone bank for department heads at council meetings) - $35,800. The standing-room-only crowd heard a series of speakers - both through delegations and the inaugural session of an “open mic” format prior to budget discussion. While two residents registered as delegates, seven signed up in the town hall lobby for the open mic. Open mic speakers were given two minutes each to share their thoughts on the proposed budget. Resident George Trifunovic reviewed a lengthy series of numbers to show council the impact to residents is higher than they seem to believe. Quoting a letter from former council member Nick DiFlavio who called council’s budget “unbridled spending”, Trifunovic said council appeared to “rubber stamp the requests of staff.” Coun. Randy Vaine said Trifunovic got stuck on the same information other residents did - the 16.7 per cent increase number - for which he blamed local newspaper coverage. “They didn’t do a proper job,” said Vaine, adding he provided a standard reply to inquiries over the last week to which he got a “Thanks for clarifying” response. Several members of the See TAXES, Page 2
Page 2 • News Now • Thursday, March 5, 2020
TAXES
From Page 1 gallery shouted down Vaine at that point with comments ranging from “Shame” to “Dunstall looks like he’s falling asleep during these council meetings”. Vaine went on to justify his budget position, but Mayor Jeff Jordan interjected with a point of order noting Vaine was off topic if he did not have any questions of the speaker. Vaine shot back that he wanted to lodge a formal complaint on the record about being cut off. At that point, resident Chris Jack stood in the gallery blasting Vaine. “Why don’t you listen to your mayor? I am disappointed in five of you, one I am very disappointed in. Why don’t you get your head out of your #@!es?” He immediately walked out on the meeting. In the open mic portion, former alderman Joanne Johnston was first up, citing her concerns with higher taxes on local seniors and basic affordability for young adults to stay in Grimsby. Gary McClure noted his concern at the little amount of public input into this year’s budget process. Director of finance Steve Gruninger had noted a draft budget was presented at an early committee of the whole meeting and the draft of the initial proposed budget was available online three weeks before the Feb. 18 session, adding there was also a budget survey online which garnered 200 respondents. “I read it in the paper, now there is a vote,” said McClure of how the process looked to him, adding his pension went up $21 in 2019 while his old age security went up $6. Lisa Sesnic signed up but she wanted to address council’s ouster of Coun. Dorothy Bothwell as chair of the Town’s heritage committee in favour of Coun. John Dunstall. The open mic portion was designated specifically to the budget topic, however. COUNCIL DEBATE
Gruninger teed up council for the remainder of the meeting by prefacing debate with an overview of the proposed budget document. Among the items noted, Gruninger said even with the proposed 16.7 per cent increase, Grimsby would still have the second lowest tax rate, $285, in Niagara and it would still be $533 below the regional average. When Coun. Bothwell questioned how some of the items got included since council’s standing committees “had no input” into the document, Gruninger noted the process started with staff meeting to develop the operation budget portion keeping any increase to the rate of inflation, 2.2 per cent. After the list of needs was developed, the first draft went to a committee of the whole meeting and it was also posted online. Coun. Reg Freake set the table for the item by item debate by suggesting council needed to make some tough decisions to better serve the taxpayers. “We cannot and should not try to achieve all of our strategic priorities in one budget. We have to listen to our shareholders,” said Freake. He later moved that council take a 20 per cent pay deduction to show residents they take fiscal responsibility seriously. During debate on that motion - which included claims by Coun. Dave Sharpe that Freake was “grandstanding” - it was noted Grimsby is currently about 10 per cent over the regional average on compensation to elected officials. That motion was defeated in a recorded vote 6-3 with Coun. Lianne Vardy, Bothwell and Freake voting for, while Coun. Kevin Ritchie, Coun. John Dunstall, Vaine, Coun. Dave Kadwell, Jordan and Sharpe opposed. INFRASTRUCTURE Council opted to delay a $125,000 item which would start a long-term plan to close a gap in infrastructure financial planning. While a gap exists and will expand over the long haul if
unattended, Gruninger noted council could delay this item by one year with no serious detrimental impact to their long-term plan. Given that was even one year of flexibility, council took that route but that came in a close 5-4 vote with Jordan, Bothwell, Vardy, Dunstall, Freake voting to remove the item from the 2020 budget, while Sharpe, Vaine, Ritchie and Kadwell voted to keep it. COMMUNICATIONS Calling the development of a communications department “absolutely critical”, CAO Harry Schlange said the Town needs a communications person in place to establish common branding, heighten public engagement and root out available grant opportunities. Sharpe suggested many options - from making the position part-time to delaying the start to reduce financial impact to making it a contract position to sharing services with another municipality. None had any sway with Schlange. Schlange noted Town of Lincoln has 2.5 staff on communications but the municipality was not interested in sharing services. Bothwell noted that a communications position was initially included in the 2019 budget but at a rate of $36,000, asking why the jump to more than $100,000? Schlange said that figure was needed to attract “top talent to do a good job.” After Freake suggested going with a junior communications person to get costs down was rejected, council voted 6-3 to remove the position from the budget entirely. Bothwell, Vardy, Kadwell, Freake, Sharpe, Jordan voted it down, while Ritchie, Dunstall and Vaine supported it. LEGAL Council unanimously opted to keep a $250,000 item for a legal fund in place. Sharpe noted this fund is needed to allow council any ability at all to shape development as it comes down the pipe. Noting the previous coun-
cils would consistently allow six-, eight- and 10 storey structures for “fear of costs” to oppose them, Sharpe said the Town can no longer allow that to happen. “Residents said they would pay to allow us to fight. When some developers come in and want to build twice the height, twice the density or reduce parking...we need to stand up,” said Sharpe. Council fully agreed, supporting this initiative unanimously. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Some members of council were skeptical of the cost for an economic development officer suggested by Schlange, not about the value of such a position. Schlange initially told council the full year salary for the position would be $102,000 and confirmed $17,500 would be set for a budget for conferences and travel. The department, a new one, would have a price tag of $150,000 all in. Schlange told council there are 2,500 businesses in Grimsby and most of a community’s growth comes through expansion, not new business. Getting to network with all the businesses would take a lot of time. Kadwell said he supported the hire, noting the Grimsby Economic Development Advisory Committee, which he chairs, had a survey done of vacant land which revealed 11 properties vacant, although not Town-owned. “This is the right time,” said Kadwell of creating the position. When trying to find an alternative method to cover the position’s cost, Dunstall suggested the Town initiate a business registry which would include a licensing fee, “That could pay for the economic development.” Schlange said that was an option, but it would not cover the cost. “We are looking into business licenses,” said Schlange. Again it was suggested by Freake that council look at other options with hire such as delaying the start time and
contracting the position. Bothwell suggested having a two-year renewable contract with results earning a renewal or the position being made full-time at that point. Vaine rejected the idea of a contract hire. “If you’re a quality person, you’re not taking a two-year contract,” said Vaine. Schlange told council to make the position full-time “or don’t approve it”. The delayed hire suggestion was defeated in a 5-4 vote but a September start, which would save $44,000 in 2020, was approved in a 7-2 recorded vote with only Bothwell and Vardy opposing. PARKS & REC Both new hires - a parks manager and recreation programmer - in the parks and recreation department survived. There was considerable debate for both positions, but council ultimately agreed these positions had been shuffled from year-to-year and were long overdue to be filled. STUDIES While there was some interest noted in doing away with all studies, most of the discussion centred around what to call the Main Street East study. A culture and heritage study for Grimsby Beach was supported unanimously, but a culture and heritage study for Main East survived...barely. Sharpe wanted staff to provide direction going so far as to say, “We’re not allowed to question their advice”, while Bothwell noted the community has spoken up many times saying they want council to have more control and direction for development, adding a culture and heritage study would give them a rudder. “The community wants a heritage district study. There is no ambiguity,” said Bothwell. In the end, the original motion for a heritage study was approved 6-3 with Vaine, Ritchie and Dunstall opposing.
News Now • Thursday, March 5, 2020 • Page 3
GSS girls’ curling team sweeps OSC Championship head. Team skip Abi Salari said the team was confident in their chances after the first game. “After the first win against A.N. Meyer, we knew we had a shot at winning,” said Salari. The girls also competed at the Niagara Region High School Athletic Association (NRHSAA) Zone 4 playoff on Feb. 18 at the St. Catharines Golf & Country Club. They will return there to compete in the Southern Ontario School Sports Association championship on March 5.
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The Mortgage Qualifying Stress Test gets its first tweak but is this newsworthy?
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Recently. the Federal Government announced that, as of April 6th 2020, the mortgage qualifying stress test will be calculated differently. The stress test was initially introduced in 2017 for high-ratio mortgages, and then expanded in 2018 to include conventional mortgages, as a method to ensure that homeowners can sustain higher mortgage payments if and/or when interest rates rise. The Federal Government is preparing to replace the current benchmark rate used with the stress test for both insured and uninsured mortgages with a lower rate that is more in-line with current mortgage rate market conditions, and more representative of the mortgage rates offered by lenders. This is good news for homebuyers; qualifying at a lower rate than the current benchmark rate will allow for a slight increase in borrower purchasing power, but in my opinion, it’s not a significant adjustment as it does nothing to address the issue of affordability. It also does nothing to address the bigger issue of supply of affordable housing - or lack thereof. The benchmark rate currently in-use is 5.19%; Industry analysts are projecting the new qualifying rate will be around 4.89% percent, which is 30 basis points lower than current. So, as an example, a borrower who previously qualified for a 380K mortgage might now qualify for 390K… If you run the numbers for your own financial situation, I think you’ll agree, this stress test adjustment will not have great impact. We need our Federal Government to address affordability in other ways, such as re-introducing longer amortization periods. Or, can all three levels of Government focus their efforts on creating legislation that will open the doors to co-ownership opportunities and multi-generational property ownership, while empowering municipalities to enable the creation of legal multifamily housing units so that housing is once again affordable? Now - that would be newsworthy!
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Page 4 • News Now • Thursday, March 5, 2020 To let us know about your community event, email to: catherine@wn3.ca or call 289-235-9500
West Niagara service clubs, organizations and non-profit groups are welcome to submit meeting dates, fundraising information and invitations to the public in News Now’s Around Town feature. This service is provided free of charge and is done on a space availability basis.
UPCOMING EVENTS Pre-Teen Dance for Students in Grades 4 to 8, Fri., March 6, 7-10 pm. Peach King Arena, Grimsby. $10. at the door MUSIC: by DJ Maurice of RJM Sounds. Door Prize: and Four Dance Prizes. Profit To: Renovate MacKids Paediatric Cancer Ward - Teen Lounge. World Day of Prayer Friday, March 6, 2 p.m. hosted by St. Helen Church, 4106 Mountain St. in Beamsville. Focus this year is on women of Zimbabwe. Global event is led by women of all denominations together in hope, faith, justice, solidarity and respect. Refreshments to follow. All are welcome to attend. ‘SoulSaysYou’ Sara Weiss and Gerard Petcshe – Sunday March 8 will be leading spiritual worship through music at 11 am at the Jordan Station United Church, 4105 Bridgeport Drive, Jordan Station, ON L0R 1S0 phone (905) 562-4454 - ALL ARE WELCOME Meaningful Conversations hosted by the Baha’i community. Wednesdays from 7:30-9 p.m. at the Livingston Activity Centre. March 11 Finding Purpose in our Lives St. Patrick’s Day Community Luncheon March 13 from 11:30am to 1pm, at the LinRob Golfi_NewsNowSPEC.pdf coln Centre (4361 Central ave. 1
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Beamsville) $10/person. Irish stew, dessert, tea and coffee. Info: Gord 905-401-5812 Have lunch with us Sat. March 14 at the First Baptist church, Beamsville (Corner of Mountain St. & Beam St.). Free community lunch 11:30 a.m.1 p.m. All welcome. St-Patrick’s Day event in profit of Rose Cottage Visiting Volunteers March 17th at Smoke and Moonshine restaurant in Beamsville. Half price appetizers from 3 to 6pm and Entertainment by Olearia from 5:30pm to 9pm. Silent auction, $5 tap wine and beer. Receive a coupon for a FREE bag of beignets with a $10 donation to Rose Cottage. Ham & Turkey Roll at St. Helen’s Church, Saturday March 28 at 4106 Mountain St. in Beamsville. Come out to win big! Doors open at 6 p.m., roll begins at 7 p.m. Event is fully licensed and admission is free. Prizes include lottery draws: 1st prize - $1500, 2nd prize - $500 and 3rd prize $200 Declutter and Organize March 21st from 10am-12pm we are hosting a Declutter and Organize Seminar with Professional Organizer, Julie Stobbe, B. Ed., Hons B. Sc. Julie 2019-03-05 12:21 PM will be discussing what’s stop-
ping you from getting organized and the 5 W’s of downsizing. Tickets to the event are $15, with proceeds supporting the continued operation and programming of the museum.This event will be held in the Erland Lee Museum Home’s Carriage House at 552 Ridge Road, Stoney Creek. The Grimsby Seniors Choir celebrates HAPPY - a Showcase of Talent. Friday, March 27 at 7 p.m. at the Livingston Activity Centre, Grimsby. You’ve never heard talent like this before! Tickets $10 in advance or at the door (limited seating). Refreshments during the show, and a Share the Wealth draw. Come out and enjoy an evening of fun and laughter. 2020 Workshop series Acrylics presented by Anne More March 28. All workshops sponsored by the Lakeside Pumphouse Artists’ Association. Session from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Registration fee $50 for LPAA members, $55 for nonmembers. Info: grimsbylpaa. org Giant CFUW Book Sale Sat. April 18 9-1 at the Livingston Activity Centre. Donations gracefully accepted Fri. April 17 9am to 5pm. Info 905-9452433. Proceed to scholarship fund.
Lincoln Mom to Mom Spring Sale – Mar 28 9am – 12pm. Shop 70+ tables. Fabulous door prizes and grand prize to be won. Cash ony shopping. Great Lakes Christian Highschool, 4875 King St. Beamsville Garden Club March Speaker- Paul Bongers. March 30 at the Livingston Activity Centre. Paul Bongers will inform and entertain with his presentation, “As Seen on Pinterest”. Meet and greet at 7 p.m., Speaker from 7:30 – 8 p.m. Public welcome. For info email grimsbygardens@ gmail.com Spring Wreaths - April 4th we will be running a workshop on making wreaths. Participants will pay $35 and be provided all the necessary materials and guidance to create a lovely spring wreath for their homes.This workshop will take place in the Erland Lee Museum Home’s Carriage House from 10am-12pm. Proceeds from this workshop will support the continued operation and programming of the museum. Those interested can email us at erlandleemuseum@fwio.on.ca or call 905662-2691 to preregister. Pancake Breakfast - April 18th from 8am-12pm we are hosting our annual Pancake
For Local Community Events and Non-Profit Groups
Breakfast at Christ Church, 1307 Woodburn Road, Hannon. This is an all you can eat pancake and sausage breakfast, complete with tea, coffee, and juice. Breakfast is only $8, or $15 for those wanting an afternoon tour of the museum in addition to their morning breakfast. The Battlefield Optimists are generously cooking breakfast for us and all proceedswill be going towards the continued operation and programming of the museum. Princess Party Niagara – May 2nd 10am– 12pm or 1pm to 3 pm. Meet and greet with 20 Princesses and characters. Tickets on sale now $25 each. Great Lakes Christian High School Campus, 4875 King St., Beamsville. Visit Facebook. com/princesspartyniagara or email princesspartyniagara2yahoo.ca REVOLVING EVENTS Beamsville Toastmasters Want to know how to speak courageously? Looking to enhance your leadership skills? We can help! Join us every Thurs. 7 pm at Beamsville District Secondary School in Wing #2, Room 117, 4317 Central Ave., Beamsville. Next meeting March 5. Contact Lydia @ 289-241-4705.
News Now • Thursday, March 5, 2020 • Page 5
Fridays in February has firm finish for GBF By Tristan Marks NewsNow The Forty Public House wrapped up its Fridays in February live music series with one last event in support of Grimsby Benevolent Fund (GBF) on Feb 28. As with the previous three weeks, the
house was packed with patrons and GBF volunteers alike. GBF executive director Stacy Elia said she was grateful for what the event and its organizers did for her group’s cause. “I’m glad the Forty House came to us with this opportu-
nity to raise money but also raise awareness of what we do here in the community,” said Elia. Forty House’s owner, Mark Wood, said he was happy he could help provide a platform for local charities like GBF and others. “There are a lot of charities in Grimsby that people don’t normally hear a lot about,” said Wood. “It’s nice to be able to raise awareness for these groups and
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have people in the community come and see what they do.” A final count of the proceeds raised on the Forty Public House’s end was not available at press time. However, GBF also had a silent auction set up during the event with items donated by local businesses. Elia said that the auction raised more than $1000 on its own by the end of the night.
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Smithville Santa Claus Parade needs “elves” for committee Santa needs a few more helpers for the Smithville parade in his honour. After the 2019 edition of the intensely popular event was complete, the organizing committee served notice to the municpality that was it was retiring en masse. There was no hot button issue, it was simply a matter of volunteer exhaustion from the group which had been part of the committee for many years. Of course, the committee and the community as a whole, was handed a serious loss with the sudden death of long-time chair Dave Willis last fall. “Dave did a lot, and kept a lot in his head,” said West Lincoln Mayor Dave Bylsma. “It was all well-organized and we have a trail to follow, so we want to get a committee to take on different tasks after we divide up the work.”
Bylsma said a registration deadine of this Friday, March 6 was set to allow potential new members to step up and help organize the 2020 parade. “We have not had many people volunteer,” said Bylsma. “In speaking to people, it seems many are concerned about being made chair or thinking they may have to take on as much as Dave did.” “We would define roles, so too much does not rest with one person.” Bylsma noted that the organization would parcel up tasks in a “prescriptive” planning format to keep things running smoothly. “It’s the 11th hour right now. We need some volunteers,” said Bylsma about the immediacy of the need. Drop by Town Hall or call to speak with clerk Joanne Scime at 905957-3346.
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(L-R) Patrick Flynn and Cameron Jovanovic intently watch the Peach Kings play at the PKC last Friday. The Peach Kings beat their rivals, the Glanbrook Rangers 2-1. The teams will return to the PKC for game three on Friday, March 6. Marks - Photo
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11. Thibault, Quintyn 1210 12. Granny, Pryde .....1207 13. Graham, Dave .....1205 14. Woodworth, Don1203 15. Houtby, Ron ........1199 16. Snowden, Kyle.....1199 17. Shaw, Diana..........1198 18. Wine Country BBQ 1197 19. Hall, Glory ...........1197 20. Nash, Dana ..........1197
Lincoln Museum set for March Break events The Lincoln Library and Cultural Centre is set for March Break packed full of fun. The museum will present a new event each day at 10 a.m. 12 p.m. from Monday, March 16 to Friday, March 20. Each event costs $8 per attending person. The calendar of events is as follows: • Monday: Art Attack with Creative Bug; • Tuesday: St. Paddy’s Day celebra-
tion; • Wednesday: Bubbling Potions with Mad Science; • Thursday: Under the Big Top Magic Show; • Friday: Join Indoor Campout. The Lincoln Museum is also hosting STEM March Break Camp. Children can spend their week exploring the exciting world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering
and Mathematics) through a variety of exciting hands-on activities and projects. Topics including graphic design, 3D design, video game design, film and photography, coding and robotics and more. Each daily lesson runs from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., with extended care hours from 8 a.m. – 5.30 p.m. Registration costs $300 for the whole week or $60 for individual
days. The STEM camp schedule is as follows: • Monday: 2D/3D Design; • Tuesday: Video Game Design; • Wednesday: Film and Photography; • Thursday: Coding; • Fridays: Robotics. Parents can register their children in person by visiting the Lincoln Museum or the Fleming Centre or online by going to lincoln.ca.
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Rotary at Noon Gala organizers Stephanie Opdam, Carolyn Webb and Sharon Coxon.
Email info@westniagarafair.ca for more info or to arrange a visit: www.westniagarafair.ca
Rotary @ Noon Gala supports McNally Guests met for a glamorous night at the 15th annual Grimsby Rotary Gala on Feb. 21 at Casablanca Inn. Close to 120 pa-
trons came out to the charity gala put on by the Grimsby Rotary @ Noon organization in support of McNally House Hospice.
McNally House Hospice board of directors president Murray Bain addresses the crowd with executive director Pamela Blackwood at his side.
The night consisted of speeches, a silent auction and a dinner accompanied by live music from Riley Michaels and his band. Although a final count of the proceeds to be given to McNally House was unavailable at press time, organizer Sharon Coxon said the night was successful. “Everthing went quite well,” said Coxon. Rotary @ Noon meets every Tuesday at noon at the Judge & Jester in Grimsby to share ideas about improving the community. Coxon said the group is always accepting new members. For more info visit grimsbyrotaryatnoon.ca
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Annual GAMRU spaghetti dinner March 21 The community is invited to GAMRU’s 8th annual All-you-caneat Spaghetti Dinner on March 21 at the Beamsville Legion from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Guests will be able to dine on spaghettimade and served by GAMRU volunteersto their heart’s content. This event is one of the major annual fun-
draisers held by South Shore Search and Rescue (that is, GAMRU) and all proceeds raised through ticket sales for the event will help pay for the rescue organization’s operating budget. “We’re a vital service for anyone who’s
in trouble on Lake Ontario,” said volunteer Andrew Lang. “We really count on support community-wide.” Tickets for the event cost $10 per adult and $5 for kids aged 12 and under and are available either at the door or in advance.
Flippin’ crazy
Ken Pettigrew (Left) and Hank Patkar get photobombed by Mollie Holloway while keeping the meals flowing for Trinity United Church’s Pancake Dinner on Feb. 25. Marks - Photo
NRP launches recruitment drive for new officers A request for the immediate hiring of an additional 40 officers was approved by the Regional Municipality of Niagara Regional Police (NRP) Services Board and Niagara Region. The hiring will be part of their 2020 operating budget. This has commenced an unprecedented recruitment campaign of
police officers for the NRP. The goal is to have identified, processed, and trained the officers to be deployed in 2021. The officers will be assigned to frontline and patrol positions across the Niagara Region. For more information, please visit niagarapolice.ca.
Call For All Your Real Estate Needs! Start Date: April 27
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News Now • Thursday, March 5, 2020 • Page 11
3rd Annual
Volunteer Pay Subscription Drive
“The newspaper is a greater treasure to the people than uncounted millions of gold.” - Henry Ward Beecher Dear Reader,
It is that time of year, again, for us to humbly seek your support. Over the last several weeks, many readers have ventured in our door asking if it was time to renew their volunteer pay subscriptions. It is that time. To be extremely clear, everyone who chooses to should be and continue to receive their weekly edition of NewsNow regardless of any contribution made to support our LOCAL, independent community Newspaper. NewsNow has continued to not only survive but grow slowly in the face of corporate competition and limited digital media pressure and we look forward to serving our dedicated readers and advertisers in the decade to come and long beyond!
Based on the excellent feedback from last year’s volunteer pay subscription drive, we are launching Year 3! Is NewsNow’s independent, accurate voice in the community of value to you? Would you like to support NewsNow in its efforts? This is your opportunity.
If yes, we have set up an infrastructure to allow for a Volunteer Pay System
Simply, this means, rain (or snow) or shine, you will always – each and every week – receive your copy of NewsNow. That will NOT change!!!! The one thing we have adjusted is the suggested amound - but any amount is greatly appreciated - for the suggested donation amount after the vast majority who supported us said, “Why so cheap?” For that reason:
Subscriptions: 3 Months - $15 suggested • One Year - $40 suggested
We will back HST out of each payment to make things as simple as possible. You can pay by cheque (bring into the office or mail), credit card (call Catherine or Rose at 289-235-9500) or e-transfer (send to: subscriptions@wn3.ca - make security answer - newsnow ) For more information, please do not hesitate to call, email or drop in. All inquiries are welcome!! Thanks very much for your time and Happy New Year to all,
1 Mountain Street, L3M 3J6, Grimsby • 289-235-9500
Mike Williscraft Publisher
Page 12 • News Now • Thursday, March 5, 2020
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Betzner, Herbert “Leon” 1928 - 2020
Leon passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 25, 2020 surrounded by loved ones at McNally House Hospice, in his 92nd year. Dearly beloved husband of Ann (nee Gastle) for over 66 years. Loved father of Lynn Betzner (Robert Lyon) and the late David Betzner (2017) (Tanya Purchase). Cherished grandfather of Atticus and Adeleine Lyon and Alexander Betzner. Dear brother of the late Merl Koegler (John) and brother-in-law of Allen Gastle. Raised in Grimsby, Leon was an active member of the community throughout his life. When he began running the family hardware store business, it became known locally as “Betzner” hardware. Leon had a passion for customer service over his 42 years at the hardware store and built many wonderful and long lasting relationships in Grimsby. Leon was a Past Master and Life Member of Union Lodge #7 and a life member of McCallum Chapter #29. Honorary Member of Erie Parish United Lodge #161 Cheektowaga, USA, and member of the Scottish Rite, Hamilton. Upon retirement he was active with the Grimsby Probus Club, Grimsby Curling Club, Grimsby Lawn Bowling Club and continued his engagement with Trinity United Church, Grimsby. Leon will be long remembered by his many friends for his enjoyment of life, work ethic, honesty, charm and good humour. The family would like to thank the staff at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital for the tender care they provided Leon during his final months. In addition, a very special thank-you to Dr. Denise Marshall and her amazing team, whose vision, compassion, and leadership has created a truly wonderful palliative care approach. Cremation has taken place. Visitation took place at STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street GRIMSBY (905-945-2755) on Sunday, March 1, 2020 from 3 - 5 p.m. The Memorial Service was held at Trinity United Church, 100 Main Street West, Grimsby on Monday, March 2, 2020 at 11 a.m. For those who wish, memorial contributions to McNally House Hospice, West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation or Trinity United Church would be sincerely appreciated by the family. www.smithsfh.com
HANDYMAN SERVICES RUBBISH AND JUNK REMOVAL. Call Ken 905-957-5731. Got a story to tell? Call NewsNow 289-235-9500
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OBITUARIES
Culp, R. Marie
On Wednesday, February 26, 2020, Marie Culp (nee Glintz) of Beamsville, aged 83 years. Wife of the late Albert (1998) and mother of Kevin (Kathy) and Brian (Lana). Grandmother of Lauren, Brennan, Braeden, Bryson, Caitlin and Justin. Great grandmother of Ivy, Evan and Nolan. Also survived by siblings Harley, Ken and Barbara. Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held at the Fireside Room of Tallman Funeral Homes, 3277 King St. Vineland, on Friday, March 13, 2020 from 1 – 4 p.m. Private interment later. Online condolences at tallmanfuneralhomes.ca.
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SUPPORT GROUP CR - Celebrate Recovery, a Christ Centred 12 step Recovery Program for any Hurt, Hang-up, or Habit. Every Wed. at 7pm. Confidential and Anonymous. 132 Lake St, Grimsby. All welcome. Info: CR@forestviewcommunitychurch.ca
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ADULT ART CLASSES Study drawing and painting at Grimsby’s premier atelier school. See why some have been coming since 1999! Friendly, small groups of 5-6. All levels and styles. Tailored instruction – work on your own projects! Snack bar, refreshments, make-up classes, parking – all FREE! Spring Session starts Apr 2. Sample art at brunocapolongo.com. Enrich your life with art! For info or to register now. Tel: 289 235 9678 or bc@brunocapolongo.com.
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Page 14 • News Now • Thursday, March 5, 2020
100% Niagara owned & operated Our Team: Publisher - Mike Williscraft mike@wn3.ca 289-442-4244 General Manager - Catherine Bratton Reporter - Tristan Marks Sales Consultant - Erica Huisman, Rose Bayer Graphics - Donna Wisnoski
Despite pain, council collaborated
You know the old Rovers song, Wasn’t That a Party? An industrious type with some musical ability could do wonders with the materials provided by Monday night’s episode of Spouses of Grimsby NewsNow is owned & operated by 1602207 Ontario Ltd. Who Happen to be Elected Officials. Office Locations Wasn’t That a Meeting! Grimsby Office Beamsville Office Six-plus hours of unbridled 1 Mountain Street, P.O Box 614 fun at Grimsby town hall if one Grimsby, ON, L3M 3J6 Beamsville, ON, L0R 1B0 includes the pre-public sesPh: 289-235-9500 Ph: 289-235-7848 sion in camera portion which started at 6:30 p.m. NewsNow is published EVERY Thursday I rolled out of there and home for dinner about 12:25 delivered to homes in West Niagara & Winona, 26,529. a.m. and got home just in time to see Coun. Dave Sharpe losing his mind during, ironically enough, an item dealing with decorum in the council chamSaucy time bers. at the Legion On to the budget festivities. Ken Hunter shows I will attempt to cover a off a cooker full great deal of ground in what is of simmering toa horribly inadequate space for mato sauce that the content, but here goes. went along with the Yes, there were heated dischicken and pasta cussions, aspersions were cast, meal served at the tempers flared...and that was Smithville Br. 393’s just the gallery. community dinner Before I get into some on Feb. 27. Marks detailed budget items, some Photo things need to be made as clear as possible as it is preciously easy to fall into certain traps when talking about municipal budgets. Going chronologically, this council is 100 per cent correct in handing off a significant While full credit must be given to Grimsby Coun. Dave portion of responsibility for Sharpe for leaving it all on the floor of the council chambers dire needs having to be met in in a meeting marathon, he also needs to give his head a the 2020 budget to previous shake at the same time. councils - and by previous I am And wouldn’t be a bad thing if, while shaking his head, he talking four if not five, not just knocked into Coun. Randy Vaine a time or two. the previous term. Simply, the two - on a shockingly regular basis - have zero Past councils had a habit of respect for the mayor’s chair if not Mayor Jeff Jordan himignoring infrastructure needs and long-term planning by simself. They both regularly wander off into tangents and are ply not anteing up for a given given more rope than any other council I have ever seen need or dipping into reserves would ever afford them. Whether it is Sharpe ignoring direct rulings from the mayor so as to not impact the tax levy. and coming within a hair of being expelled from the council As one small example, chamber, or Vaine threatening to sick a lawyer on the mayor anyone recall a stretch back for changing the seating arrangement at the table, their anin summer 2018 when none of tics have been a constant source of embarrassment. the phones worked at Town I would not want them to become more like their compaHall. The archaic system simply triots Coun. Kevin Ritchie and Coun. John Dunstall who rarely broken down. The tech person comment, but they need to learn when to zip it and work who came in reported that the with others, not against. M.W.
Work with, not against
MIKE WILLISCRAFT system should have been replaced about 10 years previous. Infrastructure planning, some of the staff hires and other directional expenditures such as an economic development officer were items shuffled year after year after year. That is one of the reasons it was comical to hear some members of the past council critiquing the current crew. For all their warts, I would take this bunch all day long and twice on Sunday. Yes, they are childish and say and do stupid things, but (I have to hope) the antagonizers will get beyond that and realize they serve the taxpayers, not their own narrow focus of need. The piper got paid in the 2020 budget and while the impact may appear high, taxpayers are getting some very good things for their money. The unfortunate thing is the process put in place to get to Monday night was horrid from a taxpayer viewpoint. When it is explained at council that a draft of the budget was online and there was an online survey as the municipality’s due diligence on transparency of the process, it is a clear and unequivocal comdemnation of that method of dissemination of information when the community uniformly stands up and says, “we didn’t know anything about it.” It would be interesting to know how many different residents took the time to reach
out to their representative or the mayor. I stopped counting after 100 calls, emails and texts, but contact from 150 residents would be a ballpark. I will say here, what I told them: • The money for West Lincoln Memorial Hospital is rock solid and a very good method to generate those vital funds. • The transit investment, also rock solid. The $250,000 to opt into a fixed cost solution is a dream compared to what the previous council would have bungled into a stratosphere of cost-overruns a la the biodigester. The decision the previous council made was to not make a decision on transit. This budget move is a winner costwise. Hopefully it proves to be a long-term solution. • Communications was a pipe dream. It has always been handled by individual departments and give other costs that is good for the immediate future. Grimsby needs to ignore its “keeping up with the Joneses” mentality when it draws comparison to Lincoln. The online stuff is an example. Lincoln lives online these days creating very limited exposure for its initiatives, but they get to control it, so it serves a purpose. Clearly, as noted earlier, connecting with taxpayers online is not a accomplished. • Legal, 100 per cent needed and full marks to council for making this previously masked expense fully transparent. • The Main Street East study...council needs to lock that into a heritage study to avoid the Bentley/Berry protege Coun. Kevin Ritchie from reinstating a Secondary Plan. You really have to watch the video to comprehend how much effort has gone into scuttling the heritage aspect of that item. Simply, Monday’s meeting should have happened Feb. 18. Real passion and actual cooperation - even though it was brought on by public pressure - was evident. I’ll take it!
News Now • Thursday, March 5, 2020 • Page 15
Councillors opt for selective decorum: writer LETTER council chamber. However, decorum did not seem to be an issue for Mr. Sharpe as he was heard to make several disparaging remarks throughout the evening aimed at three certain councillors. I’m sure he thought his wit was in the best tradition of Oscar Wilde. Then Coun. Kadwell started lecturing all and sundry as to proper dress decorum which
his father would have approved of. Then comes the highlight of the evening. Coun. Vaine decided to give an exhibition of Parliamentary decorum that was truly astonising. While Mr. Kadwell was taking a walk down memory lane, Coun. Vaine, in the best Parlimentary tradition, is seen to remove his boot from his foot and proceed to sniff it! I doubt even an august parliamentarian of
the stature of Diefenbaker would have been capable of such a display of parliamentary decorum. Anyone interested in Coun. Vaine’s unique approach to lawmaking can witness it on Vimeo’s recording of this meeting at 6:09. It is a sight to behold for those interested in decorum. For those interested in comedy, it is available free every second Monday at town hall. George Stojanovic
Grimsby met growth targets, cool development jets: reader Dear Editor, density project east of only confirm what we Once upon a time there Casablanca on the lake already know. Take was a “little town called shore) that will soon be a drive from one end Grimsby”. It was a won- developed...more den- of town to the other.... derful place for families: sity to keep the “big we all know what the nestled between the guns” at the provincial community needs. NO beautiful escarpment level happy. MORE DEVELOPMENT and a giant blue lake. Several naysayers ON #81 HWY!!! If offered many things think that “big is better”. There always will be to many people. Over They say we need to be change. However if our time the community like other communities elected politicians can grew. More people, and do what we are told. not stand united togethmore homes, more Enough! er to protect the characschools, more businessNot everyone making ter, integrity and beauty es and services, but still the decisions regarding of our community why a wonderful place for all. the development of our are they there? Perhaps Then things began to hometown cares. Build- they are too busy playchange. Grimsby and ers and developers are ing games, acting like other communities in all business, not com- children in playgrounds the peninsula were man- munity. What will hap- and not committed to dated to expand, and pen if the development getting good jobs done! that we did! Having been raised in and character of the By all accounts Grimsthe “little town of Grimseast end of town are not Please CAREFULLY PROOFREAD and E-MAIL your approval and/or required by has already fulfilled protected immediately? by”, a resident for 68 changes to info@minicucci.ca in order to proceed with printing. the provincial mandate Grimsby will be FOREV- years, I believe a major of expansion for MANY ER changed, drastically disservice to our comyears to come. There and negatively. munity is in the makare several (i.e.( As per newsize) council TooRob much News Now -projects Banner Ad Golfihas ad already size showning. 100%Our actual the yet to be built high been lost. Studies will and town officials must
ARTWORK PROOF - January 16, 2020
e ur at e O s d th o ot t ’s ro ack 40 b 19
realize their decisions are paramount. There is not going to be a second chance to make the right decision regarding the future growth in our community Unfortunately, I believe the die may already be cast... With our 2020 taxes poised to increase approximately 17% it sure looks like our council is banking on continued over development. Good thing it’s not an election year!!! Last year Grimsby was deemed the “2nd best place in Canada to live”. If the people we have voted to take care of business don’t get their act together and work together now, Grimsby will not be #2 for long! Sue Biggs, 131 Main St East, Grimsby
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Dear Editor, Monday’s council meeting went on for over six hours and a few of the councillors were obviously getting grumpy. Coun. Sharpe was disturbed that some in the audience chose to not show their support of several issues up for discussion by clapping or making audible comments. Why, such behaviour by the gallery should not be tolerated in Mr. Sharpe’s hallowed
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3
$ 49
YAM .................................................................. $1.49lb KALE ..................................................... $1.99bunch FROZEN DICED
1 kG.
BUTTERNUT SQUASH .... $3.49ea FROZEN
1 kG.
/lb
STORE bAkED (Swiss Muesli, Honey Flax)
CRanbERRy PUMPKIN SEED BREAD.................. $3.99loaf STORE bAkED (Jalopeno Cheddar)
MInI CROISSanTS ..................................... 79¢ea ASS’T
DONUTS .......................................................99¢ea DELI:
HIGHLANDS
7.70 KG.
1.34 ROAST TURKEY 100 gram ........................ 2.52 SALERNO bRICK CHEESE 100 gram ...........................$2.31 ROSEMARY HAM CUDDY OVEN
100 gram .......................
FROZEN
SMOKED MaCKEREL
$
FROZEN
.......................
SAUSAGE
7.70 kg.
3
$ 49
lb.
pEROGIES, baCOn anD OnIOn ...... $5.49ea FROZEN
SHEPPARD PIE. 3 lb. ....................... $10.99ea THURSDAY ONLY:
VEAL PARMIGIANNI ON A BUN .. $7.99ea
pEaMEaL baCOn
2
$ 99
lb.
$ STRIPLOIN STEAk ...... CUT FROM CANADA GR AA OR HIGHER
905-662-8396
6.99lb 7.99ea
$
CaFE
HIGHLanDS UnCOOKED CURED bOnELESS
6.60 kg.
$
bay SCaLLOp 400 gram. ........................
$ FRESH HOT, MILD or HOnEy GaRLIC or FARMER
$
$
FISH:
4.49ea FROZEN 1 kG. JJ. WILK PEROGIES....... $2.99ea FROZEN 5 Lb. STEaK CUT FRIES ........... $8.49ea WHOLE CRanbERRIES
BAKERY:
HIGHLANDS NATURALLY SMOKED
GERMAN SAUSAGE 9.90 kg.
10.99
MANY MORE IN-STORE SPECIALS
Specials effective Thursday, March 5th - Wednesday, March 11th, 2020
4
$ 49 lb.
lb.
BEEF LIVER
3
49
lb.
HOnEy COMb TRIPE
$
3
49
lb.
OLIEBOLLEN
AND APPLE FRITTERS
EVERY SATURDAY FROM 11-3 PM
www.highlandcountrymarkets.com