NewsNow E-Edition March 7 2024

> Grimsby resident has warning for anyone needing a paved laneway /Pg 4

> West Lincoln approves 6.55% tax hike Pg 5 > SRH Health puts Grimsby on technology map Pg 10 > Grimsby IC complaint sent for full report Pg 14

Proudly serving Grimsby,

Lincoln,

West

Lincoln & Winona

Thursday, March 7, 2024

Vol. 12

Issue 42

www.wn3.ca

100% Niagara West owned & operated

Circ: 29,006

Smithville native earns four Special Olympics gold

Smithville native earns four Special Olympics gold

Ewen Barclay cleaned up at the Calgary games speed skating oval

Ewen Barclay cleaned up at the Calgary games speed skating oval

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

Basketball played a key role in Ewen Barclay’s path to a quadruple gold performance at the Special Olympics Winter Games in Calgary last week.

“Ewen first got involved in track and field back in 2018, then soccer, then basketball and curling,” said Ewen’s mom, Diane.

“At her very first basketball game, I was looking around in the lobby and saw a poster for speed skating. I said, ‘You’d be good at that because you played hockey for 15 years.”

With that, Ewen, 22, got involved with the Hamilton Speed Skating Club and she was on her way.

“I didn’t know if I was

See GOLD, Page 4

Green light for Grimsby’s Downtown Reimagined

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

Grimsby council gave a green light to the detailed design phase of its Downtown Reimagined project Monday night.

After the project approval was delayed at its Feb. 20 meeting in favour of getting more detail on proposed design elements, the same initially recommended ideas were approved unanimously.

Ewen Barclay kept her focus throughout the Special Olympics Winter Games in Calgary and the results showed it. Jim Barclay – Photo

“The concept for it basically establishes a new cross-section for the road. In approving we

are agreeing to reduce the asphalt platform for the roadway with a focus on wider sidewalks, landscaping and furnishing zones, and we’re also acknowledging that we’ll be prioritizing various elements which we want to see within the cross-section. Things like trees, lighting, landscaping, furniture, active and inviting storefronts, public art, murals and so on,” said Brandon Wartman, Grimsby’s director of public works.

See DOWNTOWN, Page 3

DOWNTOWN

From Page 1

“Also, we are narrowing Ontario Street to two lanes of traffic, so one in and one out, to provide a better pedestrian experience and safety at that intersection. Also, we’re adding a mid-block crossing close to the existing downtown sign, the archway.”

The only decision which had to be made within the recommendation Monday was a direction on one of the two parking options up for final consideration: one model with parking on the north side, including two handicap spots and lay-by parking on the south side, or; a second option with flexible parking on both sides with two handicap spots on the north side.

“Staff, in our report, are recommending that we go with option two, the flexible (parking) spaces,” noted Wartman.

Harold Madi, Grimsby’s director of planning, showcased a lengthy series of slides from

a half dozen communities in southern Ontario which were part of staff’s research for the project.

In them, several slides showed sidewalk cafes right out to the street with the “mountable parking” element Madi had suggested at the Feb. 20 meeting.

While council passed the recommendations unanimously, it did not mean there were not concerns and questions raised.

Coun. Jacob Baradziej questioned Wartman about the style of bollards which may be used to outline pedestrian space along Main Street, suggesting retractable bollards would be worth the investment.

Coun. Reg Freake noted concern with an element he did not see in the proposal.

“Those businesses, that are along there (on Ontario Street) and are part of the DIA (Downtown Improvement Area) have been left out of this whole Downtown Reimagined. I feel like we are slighting them and

leaving out of this whole equation. Can we not include them in this particular project?” asked Freake.

“We had not included them originally in the scope of work.” said Wartman, adding, “This could be looked at as the first phase” and Ontario Street could be Phase II.

For Madi, the key is “baby steps”.

“You’ve got the great bones here in Grimsby for the downtown but the downtown is still fragile,” said Madi.

“I’ve seen these disasters before. Too cataclysmic change would set things off in such a way that it would annoy people. You’ve got to make your downtown worthwhile for people to walk, to park elsewhere and make that walk. Right now, people expect parking to be right within eye view of the door. People are spoiled. They have gotten accustomed to the way things are and you’ve got to get them out of that habit.”

Ages five and up

sewingwithstephanie@gmail.com

From Page 1 going to be any good, but once I got out there, I thought I could do it,” said Ewen.

Soon, the Smithville native switched to the Niagara club. Now, she works out with both clubs for different reasons.

“Niagara is very technical and focused on technique,” said

Ewen.

“In Hamilton, they they try to push me to see how fast I can go. It’s about speed. The Hamilton coach is an elite level coach, he really pushes. My parents thought it was a bit much at first, but I like it.”

After qualifying for Team Ontario late last summer, Ewen ramped up her training with three twohour practices a week.

Once she arrived in Calgary and at the Olympic oval, it took her a beat to acclimatize.

“I was a bit nervous but focused. I knew there was a reason I was there,” she said.

“Whenever I went out on the ice, I was just focused on what I was doing. I said good luck to whoever I was racing, but then I zoned out and focused just on me.”

That focus remained even after her first gold medal performance in the 777mseven laps around the 111m oval.

“That was a wave of emotions. I had never done anything like that before. There was lots of happy tears,”

said Ewen.

“Once I was on the bus ride back to the hotel, that was in the past, I had a bunch more races to think about. I just let that go away and turned my focus to the other ones. I thought, “Ya, I did that, but tomorrow is another day.”

After subsequent wins in the 500m, 1,000m and 1,500m, Ewen summed up her accomplishments in a very unassuming manner.

“It was a cool experience to talk to people from other provinces. Everyone was really nice, so it was a lot of fun,” she said.

To reach her goals on the ice, Ewen put in a lot of work, but she noted there was also a great deal of support from friends, family, her coaches and Team Ontario officials.

Hamilton coaches

Mike Murray and Rebecca Simmons were at the top of the list.

“It was so cool, a once in a lifetime moment. I got on the long track to feel how that feels. Then we practiced on the short track and we got to skate with some of the na-

tional team. That was a great experience, too,” said Ewen, who is a St. Martin Catholic Elementary School in Smithville and Blessed Trinity Catholic Secondary School in Grimsby graduate.

Now, she turns her sites on Special Olympic World Games to be held in Turin, Italy in 2025.

“Organizers choose who will be on the team, so it will be a while before we hear,” said Diane.

Meanwhile, Ewen will keep skating, always looking to improve.

Ewen Barclay and her four gold medals. Jim Barclay - Photo

West Lincoln approves 6.55% tax hike

West LIncoln council approved a 6.55 per cent tax hike for the municipality’s portion of the property tax bill at its Feb. 26 meeting.

The 2024 budget supports apabout $10.3 million in capital and special projects, to be completed this year, and $21.8 million in operating expenditures funded by property taxes, user fees, grants and reserve transfers.

The Township budget is supported with a general tax levy of more than $9.7 million, after factoring in assessment growth - down from the preliminary 9.14 per cent increase, presented Feb. 5. The overall tax bill, which includes all three taxing authorities, will increase by approximately 5.53 per cent for an average single family home in West Lincoln.

The hospital levy of $226,500 for the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital and Urban Service Area levy of $186,320 were also approved.

The average West Lincoln homeowner will see an impact (based on 2016 property assessments), of

$101.10, or $8.43 a month.

When including the hospital levy, the annual increase is estimated at $109.53, or $9.13 per month. The Urban Service Area levy for 2024 decreased from 2023, meaning residents in the Urban Service Area of Smithville will pay, on average, $1.88 less in 2024 than they did in 2023.

The budget also provides funding for enhanced service levels while also continuing to build reserves and supporting Township infrastructure.

The Capital Budget includes:

• $700,000 towards hard topping Vaughan Road, from Wellandport Road to Heaslip Road

• $1.83 million in road resurfacing projects

• $5.15 million for water main and sanitary sewer replacement projects

• $806,000 investment towards parks, libraries, recreation facilities and programs, which includes the reconstruction of the Murgatroyd trail and replacement of the Leisureplex playground.

Sub-par paving proves caveat emptor

By Joanne McDonald For NewsNow

Gary Kay thought he was getting a paved driveway when he agreed to an offer from a man who approached him from the road in front of his Grimsby home.

“I’ve got extra asphalt and can give you a good deal. I’ve got to use it up,” was the friendly sales pitch.

Less than three hours later, the driveway was done and Kay had paid in full. But it wasn’t the work he expected.

Kay said it caught him off guard when he was approached by the man Jan. 30, offering to pave his driveway. “He offered me a great deal and promised how good it’s going to look.”

They struck a deal at $3,500 and 30 minutes later a four-man crew showed up with equipment and a dump truck of asphalt.

Kay had a change of heart before they arrived and he texted the contractor, “Do not want my driveway paved.” The text was not answered, meanwhile the work crew arrived, and Kay agreed to go ahead with the job.

He paid half of the bill as the work got underway and the remainder a short time later when the ‘contractor’ said he had to leave for another job site.

Meanwhile, “I noticed there were lines and creases and uneven rolling and the driveway was soft and spongy,” Kay said.

“I said you’re not done yet, this isn’t what was promised and they ignored me.”

They loaded up and left.

Kay called the number on the business card but got no answer. He sent a number of texts that afternoon and evening.

“I’m really disappointed with the job. The driveway is soft and spongy….I sure hope you honour the warranty.”

“You said it was going to be a good job and look good I expect you to come back and give me some money back.”

He did receive a call from a different number the next day with a promise to meet up, talk about the money and fix the driveway.

“He said he would call back by the end of the week.” But that was the last Kay heard from him.

The invoice signed by Kay and contractor specified a list of work to be done including “pave driveway/ parking lot with two to three inches of compressed asphalt” and “all work fully guaranteed for 5 years.”

It seems the contractor

had a different definition of the word ‘paving’ as specified on the invoice, said Kay.

Kneeling in the driveway, last Thursday, Kay easily scoops a hole in the asphalt with his mittened hand.

He’s had to lay two sheets of plywood in front of the garage door. He can’t turn the wheels of his truck in the driveway as it churns up loose gravel.

“It’s just loose black gravel,” he said.

This is a cautionary tale. A consumer paid for a service he thought he was getting and not necessarily what he agreed to. And while Kay feels he should’ve known better, he’s not alone.

WARNINGS

A recent Niagara 411 Facebook post warned Wainfleet and Dunnville area residents.

It included a photo of an individual going door to door, a photo of his license plate, and a photo of the same

business card that was given to Kay in Grimsby. It stated that OPP had been notified and were investigating.

A comment on the post warned it was also happening on Grimsby mountain and in the Smithville area.

Two week ago, Kay went to the local police detachment hoping to file an incident report, but said instead, he only got a lecture from staff at the front desk.

The Better Business Bureau has given the company an ‘F’ rating, typically attached to companies that fail to deal with customer problems.

Kay and his wife are retired and living on a fixed income. They volunteer their time to work with seniors in the community.

“They took our pension money. It burns me up inside,” Kay said. “The first week I tried to hide it and not tell people that I got scammed.”

Kay is not naïve. He still can’t believe how the ‘scammer’s’ pitch caught him off guard.

He has decided to go public with the hope others with the same experience will contact him and, together, they can plan some recourse. He can be reached at 905-870-4156.

Kneeling in his driveway, Gary Kay easily scoops a hole in the surface with his mittened hand. Others who have experienced “driveway scams” can contact him at 905-8704156 to work discuss possible recourse. McDonald – Photo

MEMBER OF THE TORONTO BOARD,

CONTACT ME FOR A FREE CONSULTATION AND MARKET UPDATE ON THE CURRENT VALUE OF YOUR HOME!

AFFILIATE MEMBER

A SLICE OF HEAVEN ON OVER 2 ACRES

Beautifully updated Century home, in the Heart of Niagara's fruit belt. ADDITIONAL LUXURIOUS SECOND RESIDENCE ON THE PROPERTY, IDEAL

This 2700 square foot custom home is a dream retreat for those seeking tranquility & luxury. Nestled amidst mature trees, flourishing fruit orchards, and the lush greens of the neighbouring golf courses & only minutes from all conveniences. Breathtaking views that change with the seasons. Begin your day by watching the sun's gentle ascent from the private deck adjoining the master suite. Covered patio with gas fireplace off the kitchen. Welcome to your own slice of paradise! $2,199,000

RAISED BUNGALOW NEXT TO PARK

Lovely raised bungalow in quiet area next to Centennial Park, in fabulous Fenwick. Almost 3000sqft of finished family living. 3 +1 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms. Finished lower level with a wet bar and walk-up to the gorgeous professionally landscaped private backyard. Spacious great room with vaulted ceilings & large windows with California shutters. Inside entry to double garage. Separate dining room, large eat-in kitchen with double patio doors to the raised deck. This home has everything you've been looking for and more! $874,900

WELLAND

GRIMSBY

CHARMING RAISED BRICK BUNGALOW

Spacious 3+1 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom home with 2 Full kitchens, perfect for in-law accommodation! Abundance of natural light. Open concept living area with family room, dining area, and large kitchen with abundant cabinetry. Fully finished walk-up basement, with full kitchen - great for in-laws, guest space, home office - the possibilities are endless! Two-tierd backyard deck and lovely backyard for gardening, barbecues, or simply relaxing. 1.5 car garage. $724,900

FOR LEASE OR FOR SALE: GREAT

OPPORTUNITY IN GRIMSBY'S VIBRANT DOWNTOWN CORE!

Beautifully maintained 2.5 storey large brick building with DMS (Downtown Main Street) Zoning, offering numerous uses with excellent storefront exposure. Ample parking, full of character throughout. Nine foot ceilings, C/Air, 200 Amp service, new roof shingles 2023, fully finished attic, new forced air gas furnace 2023. For Lease: $2,000/Month + Taxes & Utilities.

For Sale: $849,900

"Zoi and her team guided us through the whole process from start to finish, ending with outstanding results. Their professionalism, dedication, and attention to accuracy and detail was paramount in the selling of our house. This team is incredibly organized and operated at the highest standard of integrity. They went above and beyond. Due to these exceptional abilities, we had complete confidence in Zoi and her team. We are thrilled with the exemplary outcome, thank you so much!” - Reg & Gail M.

Niagara Region’s red light cameras began enforcing red light running offences starting yesterday, March 6, at three locations across the region.

The remaining seven cameras will be coming online and actively enforcing in the following weeks.

The Region has been installing and testing the cameras over the last several weeks in preparation for the start of the program.

Red light cameras (RLC) are active in four locations in Niagara Falls now.

The remaining locations will become active in phases over the following weeks:

Grimsby

• Christie Street (Regional Road 12) and South Service Road (Regional Road 40)

Lincoln

• Ontario Street (Regional Road 18) and South Service Road (Regional Road 40)

Pelham/WestLincoln

• Hwy. 20 (Regional Road 20) and Victoria Avenue (Regional Road 24)

A map of the locations of which cameras are currently active is available on Niagara Region’s website for reference anytime.

Regional Council approved the use of RLCs at 10 signalized intersections throughout Niagara.

RLCs have a proven history of improving intersection safety through a reduction in the frequency and severity of collisions, say regional officials.

They are particularly effective in reducing right-angle collisions, which more commonly result in injuries, fatalities, and high societal costs.

The RLC program is an important component of the Region’s Vision Zero initiative which is focused on the reduction and eventual elimination of serious injuries and fatalities on the Regional road network. Learn more about Vision Zero in Niagara.

PREMIUM RAVINE LOTS & URBAN TOWNS IN PARIS

Life on the Riverbank is timelessly and elegant. Wrapped by the woods and the Nith River, this extraordinary setting will be home to a collection of detached homes on 46’-50’ lots, urban townhomes, and a rare offering of Losani Premium statement homes.

MODERN FARMHOUSE TOWNHOMES IN BEAMSVILLE

Nestled within Vista Ridge in Beamsville, Ontario, Benchmark stands as a testament to modern farmhouse living at its finest. This community not only captures the essence of rural charm but also offers a host of key features that make it a truly unique and coveted place to call home.

LIFE HERE IS A WALK IN THE PARK AT UPPER STONEY CREEK

Here where the trees soar overhead, the water splashes, and the trails always lead you home. The grass is greener, the backyards are bigger, and nature is quite literally right next door. This is life on Maplewood Park.

FARMHOUSE & STACKED TOWNS IN LOWER STONEY CREEK

SweetBerry a new community located in Lower Stoney Creek at Barton and Glover, minutes from the QEW. This vibrant community offers escarpment views from its modern farmhouse and stacked townhomes, providing a variety of housing options for families and individuals.

ROBERT JAMES, Sales Representative

Office: 905-945.1234

Email: robertjames@royallepage.ca

SRH Health Foods launches innovative 24/7 product kiosk

By Mike Williscraft For NewsNow

Few may consider Grimsby a hotbed of technological innovation, but Adil Gill is looking to change that one happy customer at a time.

Gill is the owner of SRH Health Foods at 80 Main St. W. right across from Coronation Park in downtown Grimsby.

Last fall, a vision he had back in 2005 finally came to life in the form of a 24/7 kiosk which can service customers with up to 1,500 products.

“In the store we have more than 4,000 SCUs and we have set up the kiosk with 500 of our most popular items,” said Gill, noting the unit

has a capacity for up to 1,500 items.

“It is all about convenience for our customers combined with great quality products. We have brands such as AOR, Platinum and CanPrev, which are very

popular, all stocked.”

The new kiosk system is one-of-a-kind so very unique which makes education its only stumbling block.

“Education is the key as this is brand new technology. People do

not expect something like this to have been done by a small, independent store,” said Gill.

Consumers can go on srhhealth.ca - click on “kiosk” in the top right corner and set about placing their order. They will be emailed a six-digit code which they would input at the store and their order will come out.

“We will have an app so orders can be submitted from phones, too,” said Gill.

On top of convenience, Gill noted that all items in the kiosk are discounted to save shoppers money.

“A $90 item in the store is $80 in the kiosk. How can you go wrong?” said Gill.

Grimsby Mayor Jeff Jordan, left, helps SRH Health Foods owner Adil Gill officially launch his innovative 24/7 product kiosk. Questions about the kiosk can be directed to 905-945-8951.

Calling All Carriers!!

NewsNow is looking for carriers to fill newspaper routes in All its communities.

• Grimsby • Beamsville • Vineland

• Jordan • Smithville • Winona

Be first in line to have a route in your neighbourhood!

Each edition would be delivered to your home on Wednesdays for distribution that week.

We are also looking for drivers to make those deliveries from our depot to carriers’ homes. Flyers may be included.

We have had many calls about this in the last couple of years and have kept contact information for all inquiries, but feel free to contact us again if you are still interested.

We are researching now to assess interest from the community. To be clear, we will make the best choice on how NewsNow arrives at your door no matter what!!

Canada Post has done a good job for us, but if creating our own carrier force once again proves a better model, we are there for you readers!!

Once we have compiled a roster of interested carriers much more detail will be provided to all at that time.

To get your name on our list, contact Catherine at: catherine@wn3.ca include name, address and phone number.

1 Mountain Street, Grimsby • 289-235-9500

In observance of the United Nations’ World Water Day, Niagara Region is offering a tour of Grimsby’s Water Treatment Plant on March 22.

Niagara Region protects public health and the environment by providing award-winning drinking water for the communities we serve. Niagara Region operates six water treatment facilities that produce 155 million litres of safe and reliable drinking water each day.

On this tour, a water treatment operator will walk participants through the plant to explore the various phases of water treatment at the Grimsby Water Treatment Plant from Lake Ontario to the tap.

The tour will start at 11 a.m. at the plant, 300 North Service Rd., Grimsby.

Registration is required. Participants will be required to sign a waiver before the start of the tour. Visitors must be 12 years of age or older and be able to walk up and down stairs to participate. Closed toe shoes are required.

Space is limited, so sign up by Friday, March 15 to secure your spot.

For more information, or to register for the free tour, please contact: Amanda Deschenes, engagement and education coordinator, waterwastewater services division: amanda.deschenes@niagararegion.ca

We’re collecting food donations for Community Care of West Niagara

Help us Block hunger.

Help us Block hunger.

March 1, 2024 – March 27, 2024. Bring in donations during office hours and receive $10 OFF your tax preparation fee when you file at H&R Block in Beamsville as a thank you for supporting our community.

We’re collecting food donations for Community Care of West Niagara

The foodbank is in need of:

• Baking ingredients – small sizes of flour, sugar, brown sugar

• Canned soup – vegetable & cream of mushroom

We’re collecting food donations for Community Care of West Niagara March 1, 2024 – March 27, 2024. Bring in donations during office hours and receive $10 OFF your tax preparation fee when you file at H&R Block in Beamsville as a thank you for supporting our community.

March 1, 2024 – March 27, 2024. Bring in donations during office hours and receive $10 OFF your tax preparation fee when you file at H&R Block in Beamsville as a thank you for supporting our community.

• Canned beef stew or chili

The foodbank is in need of:

The foodbank is in need of:

The foodbank is in need of:

• Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, boost, gatorade, juice

• Baking ingredients – small sizes of flour, sugar, brown sugar

• Cooking oils – olive, vegetable, canola etc.

• Baking ingredients – small sizes of flour, sugar, brown sugar

• Baking ingredients - small sizes of flour, sugar, brown sugar

• Canned soup – vegetable & cream of mushroom

• Dish soap, laundry soap & cleaning supplies

• Canned soup – vegetable & cream of mushroom

• Dish soap, laundry soap & cleaning supplies

• Canned beef stew or chili

• Canned beef stew or chili

• Hamburger helper

• Canned soup - vegetable & cream of mushroom

• Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, boost, gatorade, juice

• Canned beef stew or chili

• Instant potatoes - scalloped & mashed

• Cooking oils – olive, vegetable, canola etc.

• Hamburger helper

• Instant potatoes - scalloped & mashed

• Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, boost, gatorade, juice

• Condiments: mayo, salad dressing, etc.

• Dish soap, laundry soap & cleaning supplies

• Cooking oils – olive, vegetable, canola etc.

• Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, boost, gatorade, juice

• Hamburger helper

• Toilet paper, kleenex, paper towel, wipes

• Dish soap, laundry soap & cleaning supplies

• Condiments: mayo, salad dressing, etc.

• Hamburger helper

• Instant potatoes - scalloped & mashed

• Cooking oils - olive, vegetable, canola etc.

• Condiments: mayo, salad dressing, etc.

• Instant potatoes - scalloped & mashed

• Toilet paper, kleenex, paper towel, wipes

• Condiments: mayo, salad dressing, etc.

• Toilet paper, kleenex, paper towel, wipes

• Toilet paper, kleenex, paper towel, wipes

4549 Ontario Street, Beamsville ON (905) 563-1677

4549 Ontario Street, Beamsville ON (905) 563-1677

Grimsby council sends complaint to Integrity Commissioner

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

A complaint to Grimsby’s Integrity Commissioner (IC) by Mayor Jeff Jordan originally filed Dec. 18, 2023 was formally sent back to the IC for adjudication at Monday night’s council meeting.

In a Feb. 16 report, IC Michael Maynard noted he was not able to in-

vestigate the matter based on current procedures in place which keep him from investigating matters of decorum unless council as a whole makes such a request.

At issue in Jordan’s complaint was as series of comments made by Coun. Veronica Charrois at the Nov. 20, 2023 meeting of coun-

cil where she eluded to a possible conflict of interest for the mayor in relation to a development before council for consideration.

“So this is directed to the Mayor. I am just wondering if you consulted with the Integrity Commissioner given your donation from the party we’ve voted on,” said Charrois at the

time.

On Monday, while the matter of whether or not council should pursue the matter by voting in favour of having the IC follow through with an investigation, Charrois claimed she did not say Jordan had a conflict.

“When I had asked the question, I had actually never said you

Solar Eclipse Contest

Shine a spotlight on your favourite business and win a unique outing at one of the best spots in Canada to view the April 8 eclipse!

What business shines brightest to you, eclipsing all the others?

Send your nomination for the West Niagara business of your choice for a chance to win 2 tickets to Vineland Estate Total Solar Eclipse Celestial Celebration Luncheon on April 8 2024. (Value of $400)

The prize includes: a sparkling reception, a themed 3-course gourmet lunch, paired with premium wines, a take home commemorative labeled wine, themed jewelry, a special keepsake booklet & eclipse viewing glasses. Time 1-4:30 pm

You can nominate a business because of great service, its providing of varied products and/or a long-standing commitment to its community.

Try to keep your submission under 300 words. The successful nominated business will also be a winner - receiving 2 full-color Quarter Page ads in NewsNow in 2024*.

(Value about $800)

Submit your nomination of 300 words or less explaining why this business eclipses all others and deserves to be recognized.

Send it to eclipse@wn3.ca along with your contact info by Friday, March 22 at 5 pm to be eligible for the draw. Good Luck!

had a conflict of interest. So I just want to clarify that. I had asked if you had sought advice. I am actually not allowed to ask for advice for another member, so that is why I had asked if you had asked that question,” said Charrois.

For other councillors, the matter came down to spending tax dollars to reach a resolution or not.

“Being accused of a conflict of interest is probably one of the most serious allegations that any person, in any organization, at any level can be accused of, especially an elected official. An assertion of this type should not be left in limbo. It needs to be resolved. It leaves too much doubt and public distrust. Due to this breach of our code of conduct, it is very disappointing that it wasn’t resolved because of a technicality,” said Freake, adding he was concerned it took 2.5 months to get to this point.

Coun. Nick DiFlavio said he understood the IC to say he did not have jurisdiction on the matter and, based on that, he did not want to proceed. He asked for clarification, noting he may change his view if the IC had jurisdiction.

“It is not my position that I do not have jurisdiction to deal with this issue. I just do not have jurisdiction to deal with it as it was sent to me by an individual,” said Maynard, noting he

needed direction in the form of a motion from council.

DiFlavio did not change his view and voted to oppose pursuing the complaint.

Coun. Lianne Vardy, picking up on a point from Freake that it is very difficult for a chair or mayor to control what is said in a meeting, said the matter needs follow through.

“Rules have no meaning if there’s not repercussions when they’re broken,” said Vardy.

“My feeling, my interpretation when those remarks were made, was it was as an accusation. This is my own interpretation. It may not have been how you intended it but that is how I took it.

So, if you wanted to publicly apologize to the mayor, for how you said that, then I could support that but if you cannot find it within yourself to do that, then I think we should pursue this and have a third party look at it.”

Responding to a question from Coun. Jacob Baradziej about whether a conflict existed at all in the first place, Maynard said, “It is a lawful campaign donation.

With Freake, Vardy, Baradziej, Jordan and Coun. Delight Davoli voting in favour of the IC investigating - and Charrois, DiFlavio and Coun. Don Howe voting to halt the process, the motion to proceed was approved 5-4.

TOWN OF GRIMSBY PLANNING DEPARTMENT

File

Notice of Public Meeting

Applications have been received by the Town of Grimsby for an Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-law Amendment for the lands known as 540-544 North Service Road

The proposed development consists of two separate residential towers containing 548 residential units (326 units within the “West Tower” and 222 units within the “East Tower”. Each tower proposes a 6-storey podium containing residential uses and amenity space. The West Tower is proposed to be 22 storeys and the East Tower is proposed to be 16 storeys. Five levels of underground parking are proposed containing 606 motor vehicle parking spaces and 417 bicycle parking spaces.

The purpose and effect of the proposed official plan amendment is to redesignate the subject lands from Mixed Use – Medium Density to Mixed Use – High Density within the Winston Road Secondary Plan, and permit heights of 22 storeys and 16 storeys respectively for the affected buildings.

The purpose and effect of the proposed zoning by-law amendment is to amend the

Town of Grimsby Zoning By-law 14-45, as amended, through rezoning of the lands from the Service Commercial Zone (CS) to Mixed Use High Density Residential (MHD) Zone with site-specific modifications that include adjusted minimum front and rear setbacks, maximum heights, minimum parking requirements, and lot coverage.

A public meeting for these applications/this application is scheduled as follows:

Date: Wednesday, March 27th, 2024

Time: 5:00 p.m.

Location: Council Chambers (160 Livingston Avenue) and via Zoom

The meeting can be attended in-person or via Zoom. If you wish to appear as a delegation at the meeting via Zoom, please register with planning@grimsby.ca. Note only those individuals that register will be given the Zoom link. If you do not wish to speak, our meetings will be livestreamed at https://www.grimsby.ca/livestream/.

Additional information regarding the applications, including information about appeal rights, is available on the Town’s website at www.grimsby.ca/currentplanningapplications, at Town Hall during normal business hours (8:30 to 4:30), or you may contact:

Town of Grimsby, Planning Department

160 Livingston Avenue, Grimsby, Ontario L3M 0J5

Telephone: (905) 945-9634, Fax: (905) 945-5010

Email: planning@grimsby.ca

An information report regarding these applications will be available at Town Hall and on the Town’s website at www.grimsby.ca by 3:30pm on March 23rd, 2024. Following a staff review of these applications, a staff recommendation report will be presented at a subsequent meeting of the Planning & Development Committee.

BLACK, Jean Marie

With deep sadness, we announce the death of our mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She passed away peacefully at her home, on Friday, March 1, 2024, in her 98th year, surrounded by her children and other family.

Beloved wife of the late Stanley Black (1993). Loved mother of Murray Black (Anne), Sharon Matthews (David Welch), Roger Black (Kim Voaden), Janet Romagnoli (Nello), Dale Whyte (Doug) and Ruth Todd (William). Cherished and adored grandmother of Meaghan McCormack (Mark), Amy Garbett (Scott), Wesley Black (MacKenzie), Anne Matthews (Iavor), Jane Matthews (Brendan), Jaclyn Davie (Kevin), Katelyn Cruz (Eddie), Maria Romagnoli, Donelda Funk (Michael), Julia Romagnoli (Tamara), Amanda Romagnoli, Matthew Whyte (Jillian), Carter Whyte (Kimberly), Eric Whyte, Holly Todd and Garrett Todd. Loving great-grandmother of Kalen, Quinn, Rowan, Nolan, Elise, Theo, Aiden, Madeline, Zoe, Samson, Noah, Ari, Avery, Hana, Nathan, Ryker, Mason, Adrianna, Haisley, Leah, Keira, Georgia, Everett and Otto. Predeceased by her sister Frances Sherritt. Special thanks to Dr. Krista Margeson and Dr. Richard Scott for their care. Visitation at STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755) on Thursday, March 7, 2024 from 3 - 7 p.m. The Memorial Service will be held at St. Ann’s Community Church, 5425 Regional Road 69, St. Ann’s, on Friday, March 8, 2024 at 11 a.m. Private family burial at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens before the Service. If desired, memorial contributions to West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation would be sincerely appreciated by the family.

www.smithsfh.com

Dennis, Helen Doris

Passed away at Deer Park Villa, on Friday, March 1, 2024, in her 98th year. Beloved wife of the late George Jakolev and the late Alfred Dennis. Loved mother of John Jakolev (Patti) and Susan. Cherished grandmother of Deryn Jakolev, the late Sean Campbell and the late John Campbell and great-grandmother of Tristan and Shayla. Loving nanny of Diva and Paul. Cremation has taken place. If desired, memorial contributions to the Canadian Cancer Society would be sincerely appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905-9452755. www.smithsfh.com

Christina Ten Years Gone

Changes fill my time, baby, that’s alright with me

In the midst I think of you, and how it used to be

Through the eyes an’ I sparkle Senses growing keen

Taste your love along the way

See your feathers preen

Kind of makes me feel sometimes Didn’t have to grow

We are eagles of one nest

The nest is in our soul

SENIORS SERVICE

JACkie’s senior CAre Offering care for Senior’s in their own home. Call 226938-1457 for details.

VEHICLES WANTED

CArs, TruCks, old farm machinery for scrap or repair. We pay cash. Flatbed service. 905-386-6181 or 289-686-5059.

JSG Home Assist Hey Stoney Creek and Grimsby residents! Need help with various home improvement jobs? Not comfortable doing or don’t have the time to do it yourself? Senior’s welcome. We can help with: painting, lighting, drywall repair and fixture replacement, (bathrooms, kitchens). No stress, No pressure, competitive pricing. Please call or text 416-879-8059, or email: jsg335@hotmail.com

CONCRETE

Regular Concrete Color Concrete 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 905-961-4946

LANDSCAPING

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

YARD CARE

GArden CleAnuPs * Weeding * Pruning * Tree Trimming * Shrub Removal * Edging Mulching * Free Quotes * Insured * Call Chris 289-407-2325

COLLECTIBLE CARPENTRY

TURN YOUR STASH INTO CASH!

I will appraise and buy any old coins/currency based on true value (no need to go to those Travelling Roadshows)! I also purchase gold, silver and a variety of other collectibles. I am a collector with over 60 years experience and I’m a local. Please call/text for an appointment and I will come to see you!

John @ 905-577-7539

SPeCiALized in CArPenTry - Painting, Small renovations, Fence & Decks. Hardwood & Vinyl Flooring. Senior discounts. Serving all West Niagara. Call Angelo 289-439-1485 rUBBiSH & JUnK reMOVAL. Call Ken 905-973-3235

HEATING/COOLING

HVAC

•

•

Advertise in the Classifieds or Business Directory. Call 289-235-9500

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

Call Blake 365-889-7838 PAINTING

Me And My Wife PAinTinG. We Paint Your Home ~ Like it’s Our Home. Residential Painting, Door Spraying. Shiplap Wall Treatments, Ceiling Fans. Light Fixtures, Refinishing & Painting Household Furniture. Specializing in Small Residential Jobs. Call/Text us for a Quote Today. Doug & Sylvana • 905-979-2151

•

•

•

•

•

18.Yakowenko,

19.

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

This one needs to go to the mat

This was one of those weeks, good reader, when I needed three of me.

There are several solid stories I simply could not get to for this week’s edition and I apologize for that. Be ready for some key articles next week, particularly from Lincoln, as I play catch up.

Why I Love My Community Winners

NewsNow presented winners of its Why I Love My Community promotion last week with Diana Richardson of Vineland taking first prize. She chose a $100 gift certificate from her fave, Just Cooking, presented by NewsNow general manager Catherine Williscraft.

It is funny how we can scramble at times for news copy and - usually once the nice weather hits - all heck breaks loose and I could fill a 48 pager no problem, if we could just handle the volume. It’s always about balance and we do our best but you will see a lot of great info in this week’s pages.

That said, let’s cover some ground.

Grimsby council returned to some of its “mired-inprocess” ways Monday night dealing with an Integrity Commissioner complaint.

The complaint was filed by Mayor Jeff Jordan against Coun. Veronica Charrois regarding comments made in November regarding what she alleged may be a conflict of interest for the mayor.

While Michael Maynard, Grimsby’s Integrity Commissioner, said Monday campaign donations which are properly reported are not considered a conflict, that is almost secondary to the debate conducted Monday.

Monday’s discussion centred around an interim letter from Maynard which noted he could not - according to current guidelines - investigate the initial complaint as it dealt with decorum of council. As it arose several

times during the last term of The Gong Show Grimsby council, council needs to vote as a body, to send a matter of decorum to the IC.

Charrois took the “What’s all the fuss about?” approach.

Coun. Nick DiFlavio took the all-too-easy “I don’t want to spend taxpayers’ dollars on an investigation” approach.

And Coun. Jennifer Korstanje rode DiFlavio’s coattails on that notion.

Coun. Don Howe said he preferred the two would meet up, have a discussion and come to a resolution on the matter.

Those were the four dissenters in a 5-4 vote to continue with the IC investigation.

Given that Coun. Lianne Vardy gave Charrois an out - suggesting she issue a public apology to Jordan and retract her initial statement but Charrois did not take that bait on Monday - it seems unlikely Charrois would not have any interest in such a resolution.

The heart of it all is, should

the mayor have an opportunity to clear up - on the record - a serious allegation of impropriety.

And make no mistake, Charrois claimed Monday she did not say the mayor had a conflict, but she painted around the edges enough in her comments to be able to see the whole picture.

It is a little like the line lawyers legendarily ask at times to agitate a witness, like “do you still beat your wife?”

There could be zero basis in fact, as is the case with this conflict red herring, but once the comment is made, it burns into the psyche.

That was a point made by Coun. Reg Freake who noted his dismay with Maynard’s comments that a meeting chair or mayor should be able to control what is said at a meeting. I’m here to tell you, there is zero chance of Jordan getting any kind of a muzzle over the mouth of anyone who has sat on Grimsby council over the last two terms. Decorum is gone, long gone.

It becomes, do you put up with crap, or stand your ground and put a fight.

I contend, if such an allegation was made at any other member of Grimsby council they would want their name cleared by a professional, third party investigation - and that includes Nick DiFlavio. No citizen who puts their name in the box to run for elected office should be expected to tolerate unfounded accusations and the Town should be prepared to defend council members.

MIKE WILLISCRAFT

(Right) Cameron and Annabelle Nixon got second spot and chose Monk’s Chocolates and 270 Bench Kitchen for their $40 gift certificates. Rosemary Sustersic of Grimsby chose Giant Tiger for her $50 prize.

Dear Editor,

I feel certain that emotions are fouling a lot of thinking. In the present name is the word ‘Memorial’.

Great!

That means remembering all the people and organizations that made a dream come true. So now, focus on the logic of having ‘West Lincoln’ in the name. Where is this place? I sure don’t know.

Lincoln was incorporated as a town by the Ontario Government in 1970 and is comprised of the area known as Beamsville plus two

Visioning stage lacks vision: writer

Dear Editor,

Maybe it’s just me, but I don’t get calling a project Downtown Reimagined when one small component, albeit major, is the only area considered.

The proposal is window dressing and lacks true vision sadly. Better luck in 50 years.

Dave Garvin, Grimsby

Letters

small communities bordering it. Lincoln, originally was a County in Western Ontario, I think people in this area are still confused by its use. Personally, I

don’t know why it emigrated from Lincolnshire, England because its only “claim to fame” is that it contains within its boundaries a town called Grimsby.

Research the history of Grimsby, Ontario. This hospital, logically, will be servicing a large portion of the

West Niagara region, so CALL IT THAT! Not WLMH but WNMH.

Let this wonderful newspaper get on with more important issues!!

Gord Edgar, Grimsby (Editor’s Note: Lincoln County was the original name of Niagara Region dating back to 1771.)

St. Andrew’s Church Quiet Time

Monday’s, Wednesday’s and Friday’s from 12 noon-1 pm

The church will be open, everyone is welcome

156 Main Street West, Grimsby

PRODUCE:

GOLDEN DELICIOUS APPLES LOCAL..................................$0.99 LB

GALA APPLES 3LB BAG LOCAL............................................$2.99 EA

ASPARAGUS...............................................................................$1.49 LB

BROCCOLI BUNCH...................................................................$1.99 EA

STRAWBERRIES 1LB...............................................................$2.44 EA

CELERY BUNCH.........................................................................$1.99 EA

GREEN OR RED SEEDLESS GRAPES...................................$3.99 LB

JUMBO CAULIFLOWER...........................................................$4.99 EA

PRODUCE FROZEN:

1 KG FROZEN BRUSSEL SPROUTS......................................$4.49 EA

1 KG FROZEN CALIFORNIA MIX...........................................$5.49 EA

1.81 KG FROZEN RED SKIN GARLIC MASHED POTATOES.......$13.99 EA

GROCERY:

HOURS:

MON-SAT: 7:00AM-6:00PM

SUN: CLOSED

432 Highland Rd. E., Stoney Creek (Highland & Tapleytown ytown

BAKERY:

BRIOCHE BAGELS 4PK.....................................................2/$3.00 or $1.99 EA

ITALIAN PANINI ROLLS 6PK...................................................................$3.49 EA

ASST. STORE BAKED MUFFINS 6PK....................................................$6.99 EA

IN-STORE - BRICOCHE DINNER ROLLS 6PK..............2/$3.00 or $1.99 EA

DELI:

HIGHLAND BLACKFOREST HAM.....................................................$1.32/100G

HIGHLAND VEAL, BEEF & GARLIC BOLOGNA..............................$1.32/100G

SAPUTO MOZZARELLA CHEESE.......................................................$1.95/100G

FROZEN:

FROZEN ASST. BOREK TWISTS, FAMLY SIZE, 908G $8.99 EA

FROZEN IMITATION CRAB CHUNKS, 200G $1.49

CAFE:

THURSDAY ONLY

DUTCH SAUSAGE WITH SAUERKRAUT, MASHED POTATOES AND POP OR WATER........................................................................................$7.99

VEAL PARMAGIANA ON A BUN WITH POP OR WATER........................$9.99

SATURDAY ONLY

HIGHLAND HOT DOG ON A BUN WITH FRIES, POP OR WATER.........$5.00

WE