> Mayor’s powers reduced in Grimsby procedural bylaw changes /Pg 18 > College St. zoning reviewed Pg 6 > D-Day vet Prevost honoured with Lanc flight Pg 8 > Region extends mask bylaw to April 21/21 Pg 16 Thursday, September 24, 2020 Vol. 9 Issue 22
www.wn3.ca 100% Niagara owned & operated.
Proudly serving Grimsby, Lincoln, West Lincoln & Winona
Circ: 26,529
Renegotiations give Century Condo green light By Mike Williscraft NewsNow In the words of the Grateful Dead, “What a long strange trip it’s been.” For many, it does not matter how Grimsby council and developer Gabe DeSantis arrived at their destination last Tuesday in a meeting which spanned a total of nearly six hours - covering two major issues - they reached a unanimous decision which
A splash of colour
will see Century Condos proceed. The condo project proposed for the old Roxy Theatre site at 21 and 23 Main St. E. and 6 Doran Ave. has had fits and starts, ups and downs, bitter debate and now, finally, approvals for a major step in the process. Key aspects of the project which were approved include: PROPOSED RESIDENTIAL DETAILS
Niagara-based artist Dan Kozina has brought his psychedelic tattoo style to downtown Beamsville at the request of the Beamsville BIA. See Page 2 for more details. Marks - Photo
• Maximum 87 units; • 22 visitor parking spaces; • 131 tenant parking spaces, plus 10 tandem spots which are not included in the formula to meet parking requirements, and; • 1.5 parking spaces per unit. COMMERCIAL/RESTAURANT ZONING • 10 spaces commercial / 17 spaces restaurant (spaces for 93m2 minimum public restaurant area (1,000 of the 3,000 sq ft proposed, and; • If the number of residential units decreases, the 1.5 parking spaces dedicated to each of the removed units may be dedicated to increase the commercial floor space. After getting rejected at a special meeting held Aug. 27 - four days before a self-imposed negotiation deadline for an agreement, the project and its related land ownership debate over a right-of-way seemed destined for expensive litigation. Well beyond the 11th hour, cue Coun. Reg Freake. Freake, as one member of council who voted in the majority to reject the proposal on the table Aug. 27, got Coun. Lianne Vardy to second his motion to have council reconsider the motion, which included the Aug. 31 deadline for negotiation. Requiring a two-thirds majority and then a second motion to reconsider a settlement agreement, the project survived a major debate just to be revived for the lengthy discussion about the wants and needs to get enough votes to eventually be approved. In the end, it was clear for Freake, who opened his comments by noting the lengthy and ongoing confusion regarding various proposals at the Main Street site going back decades. “This is the first development which this town council has really had the ability to deal with. A lot of the previous ones were dealt with by the old council. I think it is safe to say, Mr. DeSantis, we want downtown to have a signature building, a building that is really going
to mean something; the best building in town, practically,” said Freake. “There are just a few concerns left, parking, obviously, is one of them. For me, I’d like to see a maximum of 87 units. I’d like to see 1.5 parking spaces per unit....no tandem parking.” “We still would like to see a restaurant there, with ample parking. The laneway is the legal thing we will have to deal with at some point in time. They are not big ‘asks’ and I don’t think I am speaking out of turn with anyone else in this room. These are my asks. I don’t know if any of them are surprises to you.” When the dust settled, the project had the approval of Freake and all members of council. “In light of my asks, and Mr. DeSantis has met everyone one of my asks... you have met my wish list and I will definitely move for this going forward,” said Freake. LENGTHY DISCUSSION In between those comments, was a long, detailed debate which proved progressive and fruitful. The Town’s legal counsel for this project, John Doherty, provided some background and history to set the course for the meeting’s discussion. Doherty said the project was initially proposed to council back in May 2018, but it was rejected then as well precipitating DeSantis to appeal. Aside from planning matters, Doherty noted the crux of a major concern for many - ownership of a right-of-way which runs through the heart of the land - “has been unresolved for over a century.” The last registered owner of the land, James Doran, died in 1912. With both Town of Grimsby and DeSantis applying to the courts for ownership, nothing has been resolved to date. “While we’re confident in our case in Superior Court, we did enter in negotiations,” said Doherty. See CONDO, Page 4
Page 2 • News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020
Lincoln’s Pioneer week starts this Saturday Lincoln’s Pioneer Day is going to look a little different this year. For starters, it is going to be Pioneer Week. The Lincoln Museum has planned a mix of virtual and in-person activities for Pioneer week, which runs from October 3 to 10. Each day, the @culturelincoln account
will post new videos to Facebook and Instagram that feature pioneer craft demonstrations and museum artifacts normally present on Pioneer Day of other years, as well as educational interviews. Additionally, there will be in-person events. Craft days for kids, which
take place on Oct. 3, 4 and 10, will consist of four crafts throughout the day, with two indoor and two outdoor. These pioneer crafts include candle-dipping, nature crafts and more. Registration for kids craft days cost $15 per one adult and one child. Adult events span a number
of activities, including Fraktur Folk Art, Rug-hooking, as well as educational lectures. Costs vary per event. Additionally, the museum will be selling Pioneer Craft Kits for fun at home. These take-home packages will include a variety of early settler handicrafts .
Craft kits can be pre-purchased for $10 per kit online at lincoln.ca and will be available for pick-up from the Lincoln Museum on Saturday, Oct. 3. To view a full schedule of events during Pioneer Week and to register visit: lincoln.ca.
A burst of colour in Beamsville By Tristan Marks NewsNow Beamsville has a brand features that is sure to add some colour to its downtown. For the past two weeks, Niagara Fallsbased artist Dan Kozina has been working hard on beautifying the alleyway between King Street and North Lane with a giant mural that stretches across both walls. “This is by far the most extensive job technically and size-wise I’ve
ever done,” said Kozina. Indeed, mural stretches from one wall to the next and two-thirds up the building walls at parts. The painting features important aspects of Lincoln, rendered in Kozina’s colourful, psychedelic style. Details include artistic renditions of Beamsville farm fields, a portrait of Beamsville founder Jacob Beam, and magicallooking horses just to name a few. Kozina is primarily a tattoo artist, and that
is reflected in his style. However, his work on other buildings like the Black Sheep Cafe in Welland is what drew the attention of the Beamsville Business Improvement Area board. “As a tattoo artist, I’m used to applying my style for fulfilling what client wants,” he said. “I’m trying to have as much fun as I can while keeping it in what the town wants. It makes me happy when people are happy with my work.
Artist Dan Kozina shows off a colourful section of his downtown Beamsville mural. Marks - Photo
News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020 • Page 3
Lincoln Council to consider new truck traffic safety motion By Tristan Marks NewsNow Lincoln Council will examine a motion that would expand the Town’s response to traffic issues. The motion was introduced by Coun. Dianne Rintjema at the Sept. 15 special council meeting and deferred for consideration at the next meeting. Rintjema’s motion calls for the Town to take a number of actions. These include: Directing the CAO and Town staff to begin discussions with the Niagara Region to review which regional roadsor parts
thereof- in Lincoln’s borders that could have their ownership transferred to the Town so as to locally manage traffic and safety issues; • Directing the CAO and Town staff to present council on a report regarding these discussions, along with any capital and operating costs for such transferrals; • Following up with the Region to establish community safety zones on Mountain St. nearby St. Mark School and on King St. nearby Jacob Beam School; • Requesting the Niagara Regional Police continue to enforce municipal
and especially local laws regarding traffic safety and vehicle noise; • And pursuing discussions with the Region to allow Lin-
coln to participate in any available pilot projects that use electronic technology to combat speed offenses. Rintjema said that
Banquet of Champions
Niagara Special Olympics athlete Ben Posavad was one of 68 athletes who participated in the Special Olympics Drive-Thru Banquet on Saturday. The organization’s annual Athletes Banquet was cancelled due to COVID-19, but organizers found a way to capture some of the celebration and camaraderie. Marks - Photo
the items included in her motion offer a wide-reaching response to complaints from residents regarding unsafe traffic. “This motion is a comprehensive, high-level, forwardthinking approach to improving road safety and general traffic issues,” said Rintjema. However, much of the council agreed that they needed more time to review the motion and the large number of recommendations it made. Coun. Tony Brunet, in particular, questioned the wisdom of adding to the existing list of
truck safety measures waiting to be implemented already. He noted his disappointment on the Town’s lack of progress with its existing Truck Safety Plan. “I’m very disappointed in the way we’ve moved forward on this,” said Brunet. Coun. JD Pachereva noted that motion made a lot of requests of the Region. “There’s a lot of direction here, but we need to look internally first,” said Pachereva. Lincoln Council will consider the motion once again at its next meeting.
Can you afford your home once you retire? The key is to start planning early - before you actually retire!
Here are three ideas to investigate now, while you are still working: • Be proactive - Set up a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC). Once you have the HELOC, you will not be required to re-qualify if/when you eventually need this credit. The HELOC interest rate will fluctuate in accordance with the financial institution’s Prime lending rate. The current Prime rate for most institutions is 2.45%, so your HELOC rate could be in the range of 2.95% to 3.45%, as most lenders charge the Prime rate plus a small surcharge.
Better things with a Desjardins Agent My service extends far beyond an initial conversation - I’m here for you every step of the way as your life and your needs change.
1410005CN.1
Craig Budd Insurance Agency Ltd Craig Budd, Agent 49 Main St W Grimsby, ON L3M 1R3 905-309-4440 www.craigbudd.ca Desjardins Insurance refers to Certas Home and Auto Insurance Company, underwriter of automobile and property insurance or Desjardins Financial Security Life Assurance Company, underwriter of life insurance and living benefits products. Desjardins, Desjardins Insurance and related trademarks are trademarks of the Fédération des caisses Desjardins du Québec, used under licence.
• Restructure your existing mortgage with a 30-year amortization, and go with a 5-year fixed-term or longer, so that you are insulated from possible future interest rate increases. The current 5-year fixed-term rate for a refinance-type application with a 30-year amortization is hovering around 2%. • Look at converting your existing mortgage to a Reverse Mortgage; No repayment is required, and you will never be forced to move or sell your home. The proceeds of a Reverse Mortgage are tax-free, and you can opt for lump-sum payment or smaller advances throughout the year. Reverse mortgage rates are typically three percent higher than regular mortgages, currently hovering around 5.09%. We can look at refinancing an existing mortgage, or borrowing additional funds that you can invest now so that you can earn investment income in retirement. For more information, please contact me. I appreciate the opportunity to help you make your home-ownership more affordable.
Margo Wynhofen, B.A.Econ., CPMB Principal Broker Verico
One Mortgage
Corp.
Each Verico Broker is an Independent owner operator ™ Trademarket of Vercio Financial Group Inc.
Verico One Mortgage Corp. FSCO Licencer #10460
7 Livingston Avenue, Grimsby, ON L3M 1K4 Tel: 905.309.8850 Toll -Free 866.864.9595 Fax: 866.210.3533 email: margo@mymortgageadvisor.ca www.mymortgageadvisor.ca
Page 4 • News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020
CONDO
From Page 1 As a result of those discussions, there was agreement on the right of way proposed Aug. 27 and it remains a key part of what was approved last week. The Town obtains an easement out to Doran, built at the expense of DeSantis and the Town receives $100,000 toward legal expenses for costs for the Superior Court action, said Doherty. “To try to move the matter forward, it would be helpful if council could provide staff and consultants with clear information and specifics about its intentions and wishes for this development that might meet with approval,” noted Doherty, so goals for negotiations would be known at the start. WISH LIST Freake did exactly that, outlining the minimum requirements council needed, which all ended up delivered on in the end. The four councillors who voted for what others called an incomplete proposal back on Aug. 27 - John Dunstall, Kevin Ritchie, Dave Kadwell and Randy Vaine - made many of the same comments they raised last month speaking in favour of DeSantis’s proposal as previously outlined. Dunstall said the proposal which was recommended Aug. 27 by Town staff and an independent planner should have been sufficient and, if tandem parking fits requirements, it should be considered valid. Dunstall went so far as to claim other municipalities are reducing parking requirements for developers “in order to get people to stop owning so many darn cars. We’ve just got to get out of our cars and start using other modes
of transportation. If we don’t give it up, we’re going to be in a gridlock.” Vaine, who on occasion has stated he defers his opinion to staff and Town experts, chose not to accept the recommendation this night made by Doherty that the Town’s case was strong. “I agree with Coun. Dunstall...We have no guarantee,” said Vaine. “There’s a good chance the developer is going to win.” Vaine also added, “As a representative of a lot of the businesses in the area, they strongly support this and want it to go forward.” Kadwell said he was listening to the night’s discussion “but not agreeing to all of it.” Regarding parking, he said he understood the Aug. 27 plan met the parking requirements. “I’m happy about it,” said Kadwell of the previous proposal. Ritchie reiterated Dunstall’s belief that the Aug. 27 proposal - which staff said met parking requirements under the Town’s bylaws - should have been enough to gain approval. “They always stated they were going to provide adequate parking,” said Ritchie. He also noted that improvements to the laneway which comes off Ontario Street are also important improving safety and accessibility. Coun. Dave Sharpe reiterated he was not prepared to change his vote to support the condo project as the debate opened. Among things he wanted to see was the proposed 3,000 sq. ft. of restaurant space split on a two-thirds front of house, one-third back of house “as per industry standards”. This would mean boosting the required parking for this change
from 17 to 34 for the restaurant. If there was not enough space on-site for these parking spots, DeSantis should consider a cash in lieu of parking for off-site parking. He said staff would have to determine what an appropriate value would be for the cash-in-lieu of parking values. Regarding relinquishing ownership of the right-of-way, Sharpe asked, “What are we getting?” Sharpe likened the proposed tandem parking to the situation with townhouses in subdivisions off Livingston Avenue. “They all have two parking spaces, one in the driveway, one in the garage. We have these streets full of parking, parked vehicles. The people are not parking back to back. They’re not parking one in the garage and one in the driveway. They’re parking one in the driveway, one in the street,” said Sharpe. “Now I get calls from these residents, five, 10, 15 years after the development and they say, ‘Listen, I have a problem with the amount of street parking. We want to change it. ...The answer I have to give them is, ‘There’s nothing I can do’.” “This same question is what residents are going to ask me, similar to the Winston Road neighbourhood where we have parking problems. Residents are going to start parking in the visitor spots and we’re going to get people calling and the condo boards calling and saying, ‘How do I enforce this?’.” “They’re going to ask us to hire another bylaw officer.,” added Sharpe, noting extra staff have already been hired to enforce bylaws in the Winston Road corridor. Coun. Lianne Vardy opened her comments
by clarifying a rumour. “I’m not anti-developer. I don’t hate developers..but I do care about what gets built in our town.” PROJECT VITAL FOR DOWNTOWN Vardy noted what happens with Century Condo is vitally important in the long run for downtown as it is just a starting point. “It would come as no surprise if you (DeSantis) have other aspirations for other parts of downtown because there are a lot of older properties that could be developed, so this is a really important building that you are building. It’s not just a building. This is the building that is going to set the town for the future,” said Vardy. “It’s a huge responsibility and a huge privilege on both of us, both on the developer and on council, that we get it right.” “The big issue is parking. We know that the parking downtown is insufficient. We hear that all the time from building owners....That’s without building your building. We need to have the required number of parking spots, including those for residents, visitors, retail and restaurant,” said Vardy, noting with no overlap, no sharing of uses.” Coun. Dorothy Bothwell cited several concerns regarding the project, the process and items which had long been part of the ongoing review for the development. “I am very supportive of a development there,” said Bothwell, but she cited earlier motions approved by council which required, among other things, that a cultural heritage report be updated and “prior to the adoption of the Official Plan amendment and approval for the zoning bylaw, the entirety of property covered by the
application be merged into one lot.” This would mean the right-of-way ownership issue had been settled. Bothwell’s concerns remained centred around the right-ofway ownership and the settlement agreement itself. “The ownership of the laneway is paramount.” Dunstall took a second shot at summarizing his thoughts with a lengthy and rambling statement which included a history of DeSantis’s recent development projects in Grimsby. Dunstall said DeSantis is looking to make a large investment in the downtown core and “We’ve got to go ahead and let him do that.” Sharpe was not interested it giving Dunstall’s suggestion of allowing fewer than needed parking spaces at Century Condo as a way of pressuring residents and potential retail visitors to walk or take alternative transportation as opposed to driving. “All this talk about the future and the Jetsons,” said Sharpe, adding council needs to live by today’s requirements. “Mr. DeSantis’s demographic he is selling to is first-time home buyers, both work. It’s a fantasy world we’re talking about with autonomous vehicles. That is not the reality...and we should not be planning on decisions that are not real. As the initial round of comments from council wrapped up Kadwell shouted out from his seat that he would like to hear from Mayor Jeff Jordan on what he thinks about the project. Jordan was glad to comment. “I am not against development by any means and I think this can be a great development for the downtown core. I tend to agree with Councllor Bothwell, that we
need to determine the (ownership of) the laneway.” “The parking has its limitations. Tandem spots and shared spots are an issue. “We’re being a little bit naive to think they are not going to be an issue.” Jordan noted that at the Winston Road area of town, the number one issue is parking. “Each developer reduced their parking a little bit and we have an area which is missing parking. We have cars being towed out of visitor spots,” noted Jordan. “Parking is the number one problem in the Winston Road area. Do we want to make the same mistake twice? We want a great development and it has the potential to be a great development.” “The laneway decision is problematic, too, because we had COVID in the middle of this. I think we are close. I think we’ve done really well tonight.” At that point, council took its first of three recesses on the night to allow for Team DeSantis to consider concessions based on what council had outlined as its needs to gain an affirmative vote. RESPONSE FROM TEAM DESANTIS DeSantis’s lawyer, Calvin Lance, opened the second phase of the Century Condo reconsideration discussion by putting to rest virtually all of the concerns council had outlined. “The comments and discussion were very helpful and it has informed some of the decisions we were able to make very quickly in the room during the recess,” said Lance. He noted all on Team DeSantis agreed with council that the condo project would be an important “landmark building” in the downtown core. See CENTURY, Page 5
CENTURY
FROM PAGE 4 “We’re confident we can deliver that,” said Lance. Lance noted that several councillors noted they wanted certainty on the issue of laneway ownership. He noted, such a deal had been negotiated with John Doherty, and it would “provide ownership certainty”. He also noted a contribution to the Town of $100,000 had also been negotiated to defray town costs related to the Superior Court action. As well: “We have talked with our team and we’re committed to put a cap on the number of units at 87, so maximum of 87 units for this development,” said Lance. “We heard a lot about the parking. We’re committed to provide parking at 1.5 parking spaces per unit, excluding tandem spaces.” “We are going to meet the zoning requirement for commercial parking.” “We’re going to meet the zoning requirement for the restaurant (use) and maintain 93 sq m as a cap for the public restaurant space.” “Also, with respect to parking, we’d like to confirm that there will be no shared parking.. With all this in place, Lance said the developer has delivered on all that was asked. DeSantis agreed saying at one point when it was suggested further concessions may be needed, “I think I did what was asked of me.” For Lance, he said their deliberations during the recess allowed them to devise a proposal which covered all bases. “We believe these changes and concessions on behalf of Homes By DeSantis address the concerns that have been raised through the course of this public meeting tonight and prior public meetings,” said Lance.
News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020 • Page 5 The (development) is going to bring the needed intensification to the downtown and it’s going to bring $7.6 million of community benefits to this town over the next 10 years.” Project consultant John Ariens spoke in support of many of the comments Lance had made, in particular the team’s desire to create a statement building for the downtown. Noting he had been part of the planning and design work at DeSantis’s Aqua Blu and Aqua Zul projects in the Winston Road area, “Aqua Zul won best midrise in all of Canada,” he pointed out. “That is the level of architectural development that Mr. DeSantis will bring. We look forward to the fine tuning of the site plan.” Ariens also outlined his company’s experience in dealing with establishing parking levels for restaurant projects. “At IBI Group, we have the pleasure of being on the roster for Tim Hortons and we do all of the McDonald’s Restaurants across Canada. It is common to accept a floor area cap based on parking; whether I am in Calgary, whether I am in Vancouver, whether I am in St. John’s Newfoundland,” said Ariens. “If we have 17 spots available for parking, that limits the amount of floor space. What’s left over will be the washrooms, the vestibules, the kitchen, the cooler, the storage areas. Sometimes it is two-thirds of the floor area, sometimes it’s more, sometimes it’s less. The floor area cap sets the tone based on parking. It is a very common practice.” He pointed out that while a series of parking concerns had been noted during the night’s proceedings, they should no longer be a worry. “We’ve heard there is insufficient parking in the downtown. These 87 units
are not going contribute to that problem because they are going to be able to walk to Teddy’s. They’re going to be able to walk to the TD Bank,” said Ariens. “There’s no need for cash-in-lieu for parking because we are going to be fully compliant with your parking requirements.” As well, their new proposal included a parking bonus. “We will not count the tandem spaces. The tandem spaces will be an extra,” said Ariens. QUESTIONS FROM COUNCIL At that point in the evening Sharpe simply was not buying what Team DeSantis was selling. “It looks like no change,” he said. “Eighty seven units, it was already 87. Parking for the restaurant is still based on one-third front of house. We’re not changing,” said Sharpe of council’s stance. Noting he would want to make sure parking spaces on-site were “signed” for visitor and commercial uses, Sharpe added, “What’s the difference from what I already said no to?” Ariens clarified concessions which had been made earlier in the evening. “There’s a substantial change here councillor. It’s a cap of 87 units. That’s the maximum. In order to comply with parking, it will likely be 83 units, 84 units or 85 units. We have to strike a balance between the available parking, the commercial, the retail, the restaurant and the number of units,” noted Ariens. “The number of units will be at 1.5 which is a pretty substantial parking requirement considering that in Aqua Blu and Aqua Zul it’s 1.25.” Ariens noted the limit of 87 units residential units would provide the baseline for establishing parking needs. “The bylaw has a cap
of 87 units. It will likely be much less than that in order to meet that balance,” noted Ariens. Regarding the split on the 3,000 sq. ft. of restaurant use, Ariens said how it gets designed would be up to the restaurant owner and chef who take over the space, but “It has a maximum of 1,000 sq ft for front-of-house.” He said washrooms will take 600 sq ft for washrooms, which leaves 1,400 sq feet for the rest of restaurant floor plan. “How they design it, we don’t know but we do know that the public floor area will not exceed 1,000 sq ft,” he said. “That will be in your bylaw and you can control that.” Freake asked a few questions about the $100,000 contribution to legal costs and how the ownership of the laneway would be settled. Doherty told Freake a “Consent Order” would be requested of the court by both Town of Grimsby and DeSantis “to settle right of way issue”. Doherty noted the redone laneway would be “six times the size of the current laneway” built at developer’s cost. “The key element is there will be public use through and out to Doran Avenue,” said Doherty. In clarifying questions about the changes which had been made during the night’s discussion, Ariens told those on hand the plan now will include: • 131 residential parking spots • 17 restaurant parking • 10 retail parking • 158 in total • the visitor requirement of .25 parking spots per residential unit will be covered within the 1.5 spaces per unit breakdown with the residential component being 1.25 units. “That is what your bylaw would stipulate. The building would be designed to those parameters,” noted Ariens. SECOND RECESS
At that point, council took its second recess of the evening to allow for any touch-ups and finalizing of details. Lance opened the next phase by circulating a print out of the details to which commitments had been made. As well, Lance suggested to council they look into revising their downtown parking requirements. “We’d like to encourage the councillors to do two things in addition to supporting this settlement proposal put forward here and Master Settlement Agreement,” said Lance. “We’d also like to encourage the Town to bring forward a new zoning standard for parking in the downtown. Use this project as an example of the standard that other developers in the downtown need to meet.” “That’s a separate task, but we’d encourage council to take those steps.” Freake said, given other things which will be taking place downtown, that suggestion made sense. “(The condo build) will probably be happening at the same time as the downtown watermain replacement,” said Freake of a major overhaul of Niagara Region’s plan to update sewer and watermains in the downtown core likely in 2023. Freake asked that DeSantis’s team work with Town and Region staff to “plan to work around that.” “I think we’ve forgotten it is going to happen around the same time. As Mr. Lance just mentioned, I think we should definitely do a study and come up with some sort of a parking standard for downtown because it is going to be more and more developed. Parking is going to be more a premium downtown. Bothwell wanted to confirm the settlement agreement could and would be made public when finalized.
“There’s nothing in the settlement agreement that is confidential,” said Lance, noting it is very longa and full of legalese, but it is out there with “nothing to hide” Doherty agreed. In summing up that portion of the agenda, Jordan noted how pleased he was that the two sides could work out all details on the project when in the room together. “I want to commend the DeSantis team for working with us and I want to commend council for moving forward on this negotiation,” said Jordan. “This is a project which spans between the old council and new council. A lot of the things that the new council is languishing over is what we inherited from the previous council. Whether that be Official Plan, zoning bylaws and, again, with the Region with their new Official Plan moving forward, this is the time we will be able to look at the Town of Grimsby’s Official Plan.” Jordan said council should take the opportunity to review its situation. “I really think that we need to update it (the Official Plan) and make it so it is a better working document so we can move forward and move forward with a downtown that is historic and vibrant,” said Jordan. “This is the keystone of our downtown right now,” added Jordan about Century Condos. “We’ve done our due diligence on this project. We really want to get the best for our town and sometimes getting the best is a compromise. The developer has done a lot. THIRD RECESS At that point, council took its third recess on the night to allow for time to work through the writing of the motion which council would end up approving in unanimous fashion, which drew applause from those onhand in the council chamber.
Page 6 • News Now • Thursday, September 24 2020
8 YEARS IN A ROW!
Ranked “Highest in Investor Satisfaction with Full-Service Brokerage Firm,” 8 Years in a Row.
Edward Jones received the highest score in the J.D. Power 2013-2020 Canada Full-Service Investor Satisfaction Studies of investors’ satisfaction with their full-service investment firm. Visit jdpower.com/awards. Study based on responses from 4.328 investors who make some or all of their investment decisions with a financial advisor regarding their investment account, based on 8 factors. The study was fielded between November 2019 through January 2020. Rating may not be indicative of future performance or results.
West Lincoln considers “proactive” zoning change for College Street School property By Tristan Marks NewsNow The Township of West Lincoln is considering redeveloping the property at 132 College St. in Smithville. Currently, the 1.6-hectare site is home to College Street School, a property that the District School Board of Niagara (DSBN) has identified as surplus to be sold at a future date. In anticipation of future development and in accordance with the Smithville Urban Boundary study, the Township has earmarked the site for intensification. A virtual open house was held on Sept. 3 for members of the public to review zoning bylaw and Official Plan (OP) amendments the Township is considering for the property. The was followed-up with a
public meeting at Monday’s Planning Committee meeting. Although the DSBN has not yet initiated the process of selling the College Street property, West Lincoln director of planning Brian Treble said the draft zoning bylaw and OP amendments are an exercise in “proactive planning”. These draft amendments aim to convert the site for high density zoning of 40 residents per hectare, or as Treble explained, “about 180 units” altogether. The draft zoning proposal includes high density residential zoning throughout the DSBN property, along with part of an undeveloped lot just to the South. There would also be lower-density mixed residential/commercial zoning along a strip bordering Morgan Avenue to the
North. The draft includes two street access points: one along the North opening onto Morgan Ave, and one to the West opening on to College Street. It also proposes the possibility of a pedestrian access that heads South towards St. Catharines Street through an “irregularly-shaped” parcel of land. While West Lincoln Council stressed that no decision had been made, Treble noted that the Region was “generally favorable” in its comments regarding the draft proposal. Coun. Mike Rehner was especially in favour of the Township’s intent to develop existing urban land in Smithville. “It’s nice to see that we’re utilizing property within the Town without sacrificing agricultural land,” Rehner said.
Business Directory This Space Is Available
Marc L. Seguin
Joel Davis
Financial Advisor
Financial Advisor
37 Main Street East, Grimsby, ON L3M 1M7 905-309-7566
To Advertise Please call
289-235-9500
MERRITT
FUNERAL HOME 287 STATION ST., SMITHVILLE
“Serving Families For 4 Generations Since 1921” Director: Thomas C. Merritt CANADIAN - INDEPENDENT GROUP OF FUNERAL HOMES
905-957-7031
www.merritt-fh.com
Stan Macievich Frank Veldman
(owner)
286 Main Street W., Grimsby On L3M 1S4 Cell: 905.325.1266
Bathrooms Basements • Sheds Decks • Trim Work • Drywall
Blue Ribbon Painting
In business locally for over 25 years
High Quality Craftsmanship expert residential painting
905-945-1543
SEAN D. HEELEY Barrister & Solicitor
SZPIECH, ELLIS, SKIBINSKI, SHIPTON
Wills, Family, Real Estate 107 Griffin Street South, Smithville, Ontario L0R 2A0
905-957-7898
414 Main St. East, Hamilton
905-524-2454 sheeley@sesslaw.ca
Leave It 2 Me Roofing & Painting
PHIL NIEMI
OWNER/CRAFTSMAN
Call for a Quote! (289) 668-2728 leave.it@inbox.com
News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020 • Page 7
Lincoln strikes tourism MOU with St. Catharines St. Catharines and the Town of Lincoln’s economic development and tourism departments have begun the process of recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic through formalizing a sub-regional tourism marketing partnership. “Partnerships such as this are a well-established way of driving business in our region,” said St. Catharines Mayor Walter Sendzik. “For more than a decade economic development and tourism in the Niagara region has relied upon collaborative marketing and advertising.” “The Town of Lincoln is excited to be entering into this partnership to move our collective tourism sectors forward as we recover from the effects the pandemic has had on our businesses”, said Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton. “Our two tourism sectors combined will provide a multifaceted experience for visitors showcasing
(L-R) Town of Lincoln economic development officer Paul Di Ianni, Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton, St. Catharines Mayor Walter Sendzik and St. Catharines director of economic development and government relations Brian York were present at St. Catharines City Hall to sign a tourism MOU between the two municipalities. the best of our communi- nicipalities’ capacity to mar- kets in both the City of St. ties.” ket to a broader audience Catharines and the Town The partnership has been and combine a shared rural of Lincoln. Many businesses finalized through the estab- and urban tourism experi- and attractions have suflishment of a Memorandum ence. fered significant economic of Understanding (MOU) The global COVID-19 pan- loss, festivals and events between the City of St. demic has had a profound have been cancelled and Catharines and the Town of impact on the tourism, lei- the movement of people Lincoln to expand both mu- sure and hospitality mar- and goods has significantly
Dean Allison Member of Parliament for Niagara West Contact Dean’s office for inquiries & assistance with: Federal Programs Legislation and Regulations Immigration and Citizenship Veteran’s Affairs Income Security Programs CPP, OAS, GIC Canada Revenue Agency Commemorative Certificates Constituency Office 4994 King Street, Box 880 Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0 905.563.7900
It’s Fall Great Time To Plant
Th e O r ig in a l 76 S in c e 19
Good Selection of Plants Available
cOMPETITIVE
CERTIFIED PRIcING ARBORIST AVAILABLE FOR YOUR TREE PLANTING/ PRUNING QUESTIONS & NEEDS.
Greenlane
JohnH
QEW
Victoria
info@deanallison.ca | www.deanallison.ca
VINELAND NURSERIES
Martin
Toll Free 1.877.563.7900
slowed. “Coming together to support our businesses and grow tourism in our communities through a shared service such as tourism marketing, will help stimulate and grow our economies,” said Lincoln’s economic development officer Paul Di Ianni. “This partnership will mean complimentary, aligned destination messaging to promote the best of what St. Catharines and Lincoln have to offer,” said St. Catharines director of economic development and government relations Brian York. “From picturesque trails, historic architecture and beaches, to world-class live entertainment and a growing craft beer, wine and culinary scene, it’s all here to enjoy.” The MOU will also look at coming together to form a joint Destination Marketing Organization to assist with destination marketing and management.
N
4540 MARTIN RD., VINELAND STATION
(Just West of Victoria Ave.)
905-562-4836
HOURS: Mon. to Fri. 10 AM to 5 PM; Sat. & Sun. 9 AM to 4 PM
Page 8 • News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020
Grimsby veteran honoured with flight in “the”Lancaster By Tristan Marks NewsNow World War II veteran Pvt. Bernie Prevost was thrilled to the nines for his birthday present: a chance to
fly in the Canadian Warplane Museum’s resident Lancaster bomber plane. “Am I looking forward to it?” said Pvt. Prevost.
“I haven’t closed my eyes since 4 a.m. today!” Prevost, a resident of Grimsby’s Maplecrest Village Retirement Community, arrived at the museum bright and early with his personal support worker (PSW), Melanie Selby last Saturday. It was her who arranged this flight for Prevost’s birthday. Selby would wheel Prevost out to his balcony to watch every single time the Lancaster flew by for the
One of the museum staff explains the Lancaster’s safety procedures to Pvt. Bernie Prevost and his PSW Melanie Selby before the flight. She passed her with aircraft,” he said. 25 years she worked idea along to her suPrevost was only as his PSW. “I thought, ‘wouldn’t pervisors at Maplec- 20 when he and the it be nice to give Ber- rest and worked with other members of nie the chance to ac- them to raise the the Stormont, Duntually fly in it?’,” said $1300 needed to pur- das and Glengarry The Lancaster Bomber flies overhead in Saturchase a ticket to ride Highlanders regiment Selby. day morning’s clear, calm sky. Marks - Photos in the plane. stormed the beaches This was their spe- of Northern France. cial gift for Prevost’s Although he was 96th birthday, which injured by shrapnel he celebrated a week from a blast, Prevost before on September was one of the sur13. vivors of that battle Prevost was born which proved pivotal in 1924 and fought for the War. for Canada in Sec“It was rough, really ond World War. He rough that day,” said was one of the survi- Prevost. “But I lived. The vors of the Normandy Beach Landings on D- Good Lord didn’t want Day and recalled see- me yet, or else the ing the Lancasters fly devil weren’t ready.” “It was a war that overhead then, too. “It was a dark, had to be fought, but cloudy day and the we lost a lot of good Bruce Cloke (Left) listens to Bernie Prevost recount some memories as the plane readies to fly. Marks - Photos sky was pretty black men.”
|
905-945-0188
www.GolfiTeam.com
News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020 • Page 9
Reopening schools safely matters to everyone (L-R) Jordan Lions Ron Woodcock, Mike Mahood and Marty Dykstra sort out an order at last Friday’s wing drive through at Lions Park in Jordan. The event started at 5 p.m. and sold out by 7 p.m. Marks - Photo
One more Lions Club wing night to go By Tristan Marks NewsNow The Jordan Lions have one more Wing Night Take Out night, scheduled for October 16. Their new, drive through format was been well-received, said Jordan Lions president Bill Elsliger, with their latest monthly event on September 18 selling out and making close to $3000 gross income. “These drive through have been doing pretty good for us,” said Elsliger. The proceeds from the evening’s net income will go towards supporting the Lion’s community and charity projects, as well as going to help support Village of Hope.
After October, the Lions have no other events planned for the remainder of 2020, with both their annual Wild Game Dinner and Swap Meets having been
cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “We haven’t begun to discuss wether we’ll have a Santa Claus Parade this year,” Elsliger added.
That’s why the government of Ontario has worked with health officials, school boards and educators to develop a comprehensive plan to keep kids and staff safe. • Physical distancing measures will be implemented such as desk separation, signs, floor markings and one-way hallways. • Face coverings will be required for staff and students in Grades 4-12. • Hand hygiene will be enabled with hand sanitizer and hand washing. • More nurses will be in schools. • School cleaning will be enhanced.
Doug Pollard (Left) get his order chicken wings hand delivered by Lion Ray Dykstra.
Harvest Routes arrives October 2 and 3 Registrations has already opened for West Lincoln’s Harvest Routes events. Three sites across the Township will be hosting special cottage craft workshops on October 2 and 3. The locations and their respective workshops are as follows: • Watering Can workshops at the West Lincoln Community Centre; • My Painted House workshops at the Wellandport Community Centre; • And, Malowany Paint Party work-
shops at the Caistor Community Centre. There will be three time slots for the workshops each day: 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Workshops are $10 per person on the day of the event and must be registered for ahead of time by calling 905-957-3346 ext. 4682 or emailing recreation@westlincoln.ca. Face coverings are required, food and drink will not be provided. Participants may register for only one workshop due to limited space.
Visit ontario.ca/ReopeningSchools Paid for by the Government of Ontario
Page 10 • News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020
AMIR TREE SERVICES
TREE SERVICES WITH A HEART
Certified Arborist, Insured, WSIB Registered, Local
647-780-5234
amirtreeservices.com
amir@amirtreeservices.com
K9 Kouture GroominG inc. Your K9 Spa
LET YOUR PET SHINE!
Serving Niagara for over 30 years!
BEAMSVILLE DENTURE CLINIC Joseph Formicuccia, D.D. Denturist
Looking forward to serve you soon!
Precision, Complete & Partial Dentures Implant Supported Over Dentures Repairs • Relines • Soft Liners Anti-Snoring Devices • Teeth Whitening FREE CONSULTATIONS All Dental Plans Accepted R “YOU
SMILE IS MY BUSINESS”
BEAMSVILLE DENTURE CLINIC 4440 Ontario St., Beamsville, Ontario
905-563-5134
NATURALLY GAS LTD. NATURALLY GAS LTD.
2020
IN THE
BEST WEST DIAMOND AWARD
905-945-8493
TSSA Member
• Gas Furnaces • BBQ’s • Installation • Dryers
• Central Air • Pool Heaters • Ranges • Sales • Service
Fall is Here!
Upgrade your Heating and Cooling System today and save up to $1200 per year on utilities www.naturallygasltd.com
breakfast. Recently she petitioned the Town of Lincoln to put up a sign to thank the essential workers. The Town agreed to the request and last Friday they unveiled the new sign, which sits near the entrance of the truck stop. “A few weeks ago, I got a call from Marion explaining what she was doing and requesting the sign,” said Lincoln economic development officer Paul Di Ianni, who was present for the unveiling. “Marion and her kindness are a reflection of the sentiment of our town in appreciating our essential workers.” The sign, which says “Thank You to our essential workers” will remain up for however long the pandemic lasts, at least. Call for personalized in home, no cost estimates.
2017
BEST WEST
IN THE
A Division of K9 Kare Professional Pet Sitting Services
By Tristan Marks truckers would be to serve NewsNow them some home-packed There really is such thing meals. And every morning as a free lunch. since May, she has shown Every morning since May, up at the Prudhomme Lincoln resident Marion truck stop with containMcQueen has shown up at ers full of her home-baked the Prudhomme’s Landgoods, store-bought ing truck stop in Vineland snacks and sometimes M S I Y E B L I U M S INESS S to serve lunches even local R ” produce. “YOUpacked to the truckers who stop “I get up and make evthere for a rest. To her, it is erything in the morning, just a way of showing apthen I come down here,” preciation to the essential said McQueen. “You never workers keeping the supknow how many truckers ply line alive. you’ll see.” McQueen, who has lived Although she has “never in Lincoln for 80 years, said seen the same trucker she had tried to find ways twice”, McQueen said she to show support for varialways “gets a kick” out of ous essential workers since serving them each day. the beginning of the CO“I love doing it, they’re so VID-19 pandemic. appreciative,” she said. “Then I saw the truckers However, McQueen’s here,” she said. support for the truckers McQueen thought the does not stop at keeping best way to help out the them well-fed with free
DIAMOND AWARD
2014/2013 2016
BEST WEST
IN THE
Cell: 905-309-0047 | K9KoutureGrooming@cogeco.ca 45 Main Street W., Grimsby
DIAMOND AWARD
Get your Furnace tuned up today!
2015
BEST WEST
IN THE
*some restrictions apply.
Lincoln resident serves essential truckers free meals
DIAMOND AWARD
2019
HEATING SPECIALIST
BEST WEST DIAMOND AWARD
2014/2013 2013/2014
BEST WEST
IN THE
Your monthly membership allows you unlimited bathes!* Call or text today to book!
IN THE
Join our monthly Tub Club!
Lincoln resident and charitable soul Marion McQueen convinced the Town to put up a ‘Thank you’ sign aimed at truckers stopping at Prudhomme’s Landing. McQueen has been packing and delivering free meals for truckers since May. Marks - Photo
DIAMOND AWARD
31,750
2020 GRAND CARAVAN $ PREMIIUM PLUS
+ HST
STOCK #N20202
421 South Service Road, Grimsby (just west of Casablanca Blvd.) •
(Right) Tenya (Left) and Julia Huelin worked in the receiving team, placing food items and other donations into crates which would be passed down a sorting conveyor belt. (Below) Physicallydistanced groups of volunteers sort out food donations as they move down the conveyor belt which snaked its way through the Great Lakes Christian High School gym.
(Just west of Casablanca Blvd.)
www.grimsbychrysler.com
905.945.9606 • www.grimsbychrysler.com
Lions Food Drive great success Story and photos by Tristan Marks The 31st Annual Lions Food Drive on Saturday was “big time” successful, collecting nearly 32,000 lbs. of food- and countingfor the Community Care of West Niagara (CCWN) food bank. This was all in spite of having a “scaleddown” operation due for COVID-19 safety said CCWN executive director Carole Fuhrer. “It is truly humbling to witness such generosity and kindness,” said Fuhrer after the event. “We are very grateful.”
Grimsby Chrysler
421 South Service Road, Grimsby
News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020 • Page 11
Mario Durand (Left) and Yvette Rath push some crates down the sorting line.
Mike Wosley unpacks a Sprinter van full of canned good donations.
(L-R) Lions Casey Dol and Les Vail work hard on the hotdog grill to keep everyone fed.
Lincoln Councilors (L-R) Paul MacPherson, Tony Brunet and JD Pachereva were also on hand to help pack food to be transported to CCWN.
2020 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE ALTITUDE $
0 5 9 , 3 4
Grimsby Chrysler
+ HST
STOCK #N20344
421 South Service Road, Grimsby (just west of Casablanca Blvd.) •
421 South Service Road, Grimsby (Just west of Casablanca Blvd.)
www.grimsbychrysler.com
905.945.9606 • www.grimsbychrysler.com
Page 12 • News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020
WEEK
OCT
OCT
3 10
The 53rd annual Pioneer celebrations are back! This year we are celebrating history with Pioneer Week. Join us at one of our Pioneer Week events - with fun pioneer themed workshops for adults and kids, video content, and take-home craft kits, there is something fun for everyone.
Pioneer Kids Craft Day
Rug Hooking Basics with Betty Calvert
Bring history to life at a Pioneer Kids Craft Day. Register for one of the fun sessions to create four wonderful pioneer crafts, from candle dipping to nature crafts and more!
Rug hooking is the traditional craft of making rugs by pulling loops of yarn or fabric through a stiff backing. In this hands-on class, learn the basics of rug hooking while you work on your own small project. All materials provided. Beginners welcome.
Registration: Each registration includes 1 child and 1 accompanying adult. Register at lincoln.ca to reserve your spot, pre-registration required.
Dates
Time
Cost
10 a.m. - noon
$15 - Includes four crafts
Oct. 3 Oct. 4 Oct 10
Pioneer Craft Kit | all ages Celebrate Pioneer Day from you own home! Take home a craft kit to try your hand at fun early settler handicrafts. Pick up supplies on Oct. 3 from 1 - 4 p.m. Cost: $10/child | Registration: lincoln.ca (pre-registration is required)
Registration: lincoln.ca (pre-registration is required)
Dates
Time
Cost
Oct. 3
1 - 4 p.m.
$35
Fraktur Folk Art: Watercolour Painting Join us to learn about Fraktur Folk Art. Fraktur is a highly artistic and elaborate illuminated folk art created by the Canadian Mennonite settlers between 1780 - 1860. Drawn in ink and watercolour, Fraktur means ‘broken script’, named for its unique calligraphy style. Learn about this distinctive art form and try your hand at Fraktur Drawing! Registration: lincoln.ca (pre-registration is required)
Dates
Time
Cost
Oct. 4
2 - 4 p.m.
$25
2020 RAM NIGHT EDITION $
8 9 4 , 3 5
Grimsby Chrysler
+ HST
STOCK #N20234
421 South Service Road, Grimsby (just west of Casablanca Blvd.) •
421 South Service Road, Grimsby (Just west of Casablanca Blvd.)
www.grimsbychrysler.com
905.945.9606 • www.grimsbychrysler.com
News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020 • Page 13
Registration:
Register for Pioneer Week events at lincoln.ca For more information, please visit lincoln.ca/pioneerweek All events are held at the Lincoln Museum & Cultural Centre: 4996 Beam St., Beamsville
Follow along with virtual content @CultureLincolnON
Embroidery Club Meeting
Willow Wreath Making
The Embroidery Club is meeting at the Museum. Each member will be working on their own project. Come check out the wide variety of techniques on display!
Early settlers decorated their homes with what they found and what they made. Transform your home for the fall with a stunning willow wreath. Learn how to weave your wreath and decorate it with fall foliage and accents. All materials provided. Beginners welcome!
Registration: lincoln.ca
Dates
Time
Cost
Oct. 6
10 a.m. - noon
FREE!
Early Settler Home Remedies Join us at the museum to learn about the history of household remedies and the Canadian hospital system. Explore the remedies from your grandmother’s recipe book. Then, try your hand at mixing some of your own early settler remedies. All materials provided. Beginners welcome! Registration: lincoln.ca (pre-registration is required)
Dates
Time
Cost
Oct. 5
10 a.m. - noon
$25
Registration: lincoln.ca (pre-registration is required)
Dates
Time
Cost
Oct. 9
7 - 9 p.m.
$45
Invisible Pioneers | Youth / adult Explore the voices and stories of the women that came to the Lincoln area in the early 1800s. Historically overlooked, these women share an experience that is now being uncovered and explored. Presented by the Friends of Lincoln’s History. Registration: lincoln.ca (pre-registration is required)
Dates
Time
Cost
Oct. 7
7 - 8:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.)
Monetary donation appreciated
2020 RAM CLASSIC $ NIGHT EDITION
0 5 9 , 9 3
+ HST
STOCK #N20369
421 South Service Road, Grimsby (just west of Casablanca Blvd.) •
Grimsby Chrysler
421 South Service Road, Grimsby (Just west of Casablanca Blvd.)
www.grimsbychrysler.com
905.945.9606 • www.grimsbychrysler.com
Page 14 • News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020
Healthcare’s forbidden fruit: Struggling with Lyme Disease in Ontario By Tristan Marks NewsNow Imagine the pain: a chronic headache; stiff, sharp pain in the joints; eyes constantly burning. Imagine suffering this and more every day for close to a decade. What’s worse is the inability to find a doctor willing to diagnose, let alone treat, this condition. And being forced to travel to another country and pay for expensive medicine and care. This has been the struggle of Grimsby resident Larry Whan since he was infected with Lyme Disease by a tick bite in 2016. To Whan, many Ontario doctors act as though the disease is a “forbidden fruit”. He said much of his present suffering could have been avoided with early treatment- treatment that many doctors were either unwilling or unable to give him. “Many doctors refused to see me after I told them I had Lyme Disease,” said Whan. “Many of them have no experience with the illness. It’s so steeped in controversy that they have no guidelines.” After symptoms began to appear, Whan went to a number of doctors in Ontario to get tested. All but one of the tests returned a negative, despite his symptoms. This is a common occurrence, said Ellen Hohs, president of Lyme Ontario, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to increasing awareness of Lyme disease. “It’s almost impossible to get a positive diagnosis in Ontario and across Canada due to the case definition,” said Hohs. According to the official case definition used in Ontario as of 2019, a potential case has a number of specific requirements. First, the subject must have visited or lived in a location with a known,
endemic population of disease-bearing ticks. Subjects must also have a “bull’s eye rash”, so-called for a red ring around an inflamed bite mark. The definition also states that the disease can also be confirmed by testing a tissue sample from a tick or person, although it admits that such procedures are “low-yield”. Furthermore, Hohs said that Canadian labs only test for one of the four strains of Lyme known to exist. However, Hohs points out that ticks carrying the bacteria that cause Lyme Disease can be encountered anywhere. Furthermore, the bull’s eye rash “only occurs in about 50% of cases”. Whan recalls having such a rash, but said he did not realize the significance at the time. At any rate, he explained that the symptoms of the illness did not begin to occur until a year after he was bitten. He decided to follow the advice given by CanLyme, an organization connected to Lyme Ontario that operates federally, and was tested by two American labs. Both confirmed the presence of not only Lyme Disease, but also a co-infection of a disease called Babesia. Hohs said that co-infections are also common. “Ticks are like nature’s dirty needle,” she said. “ I’ve never seen a patient with just Lyme Disease.” Getting a physician trained for Lyme to treat you long-term is hard,” said Hohs. She explained that while antibiotics can help fight the disease, the guidelines set for Canadian doctors only allow for treatment of the disease for up to 14 days, despite evidence that chronic cases can last well beyond that window. “There’s no testing to see if the bacteria is diminished and there’s no way
to prove that the 14 day treatment worked,” said Hohs. To make matters worse,
Whan refers to Lyme as the “Forbidden Fruit” for Canadian doctors. However, his experience
Grimsby resident Larry Whan said the Ontario healthcare system treats Lyme Disease like a “forbidden fruit.” Photo courtesy of Larry Whan. doctors who decide to treat Lyme beyond the two-week limit risk “harassment” and even having their practice shut down. “Several doctors over the last two decades were harassed by their respective provincial Colleges. The medical grapevine works very well so all doctors are leery of becoming known as a knowledgeable Lyme disease doctor,” said Jim Wilson, president of CanLyme. Whan himself encountered this, when the one doctor willing to treat him, Dr. Jodie Bowle-Evans had her practice shut down while treating him. He also said that other doctors refused to see him when they found out that he was coming to them for Lyme Disease treatment. It is for this reason that
has been worse with doctors who do not believe his diagnosis. Whan recounted one doctor who, after administering a test that returned negative for Lyme Disease, prescribed penicillin without even giving a clear diagnosis at all. “It’s like the doctors are guessing ,” said Whan. “I don’t want someone guessing at my well-being. Here we are in Canada, one of the most advanced countries in the world, fumbling about in the dark over Lyme Disease.” Whan said he lodged a complaint against the doctor with the Ontario College of Physicians and Surgeons. This was dropped, as the College found the doctor in question was following the existing guidelines. Whan said this behaviour
is dangerous, as it holds victims of Lyme disease from even understanding their condition, let alone treating it. “A lot of people suffer needlessly in silence, not knowing what’s going on in their body,” said Whan. Many Ontario doctors may prefer to act as though Whan’s illness does not exist, but it reminds him that it is there every day. “I had to learn to live with the constant head pain, one blurry left eye and both eyes burning in their sockets, the incredible fatigue and joint pain,” said Whan. “The brain pain comes with short term memory loss, concentration, brain fog and it never goes away. On a scale of one to 10, when at 10, it’s hard to function and I take numerous sleeping aids.” Whan said that willpower, faith and hope are the only things keeping him going these days. Fortunately he has made some progress. He’s contacted a Lyme doctor in the United States who comes recommended by CanLyme. Whan can now access much needed treatment, although at a great financial cost. Furthermore, he has written to his political representatives and received a letter of support and encouragement from MPP Sam Oosterhoff. Those who have been bitten by a tick should attempt to remove it with the head and body intact, and save it to be tested for any disease. Also take a picture of any rash that may appear. CanLyme. com has a number of other instructions to carry out in the case of a tick bite. However, Hohs said the most important thing one can do is perform a tick check from head to toe after time spent in parks, trails or anywhere one might suspect ticks.
• News Now • ••Thursday, 15 • ••September •• 24,•2020•• Page • •• •• •• •• ••• • •• • • • • • • •• • ••• • • •
• • • • •• •• • • • • •• • •• • • • • • •• • • •• • •• •• • •• • • • • ••• • • •• • • •• • • • • • • ••• • • • • • •• • •• • • • • • • •• • • • • • • • ••• • • •• •• •• • • •• • • • •• • • • • •• • •• • • • •• • • • • •• •• • • • • •• • • •• • • • • • •• • • ••• • •• • •• • • • • • • •• • •• • •• • • ••• •• •• •• • •• • • • • • • •• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •• • • • • •• •• • • •• • • • • •• ••• •• ••• •• •• • •• • ••• • • •• • • • • • •• •• • • • •• • • •• •• ••• • ••• •• •• •• •• • • • ••••• • •• • • • •• • ••• • • •
• • • • •• •• • • • • •• • •• • • • • • • ••• • •• •• • • •• ••
•• ••• • •• • • • • • • •• • ••• • • •
ht
Page 16 • News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020
Regional council extends face-covering by-law to April ’21 As part of its continued response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Niagara Regional Council voted last Thursday to extend Niagara’s temporary face-covering bylaw to April 1, 2021. The bylaw requires masks in all enclosed public places in Niagara, and was set to expire on Oct. 1, 2020. Council’s decision to
extend the bylaw recognizes the long-term nature of the pandemic, and the continued importance of following public health measures – such as physical distancing, proper hand hygiene, and wearing a mask in public. “It is clear that the COVID-19 pandemic is not over, and will continue to affect our
communities into next year. Regional Council’s decision to extend the Face-covering Bylaw reflects Niagara’s united commitment to safeguarding the health of our communities by following established public health advice,” said Jim Bradley, Niagara Regional Chair. Since the bylaw came
into effect on July 31, the Region’s approach has been to educate the public and gain voluntary compliance. Since the by-law came into effect on July 31, the vast majority of both businesses and residents have embraced the requirements. BYLAW REMINDERS The by-law applies only to enclosed public places. It does not
apply to outdoor locations or to indoor locations accessible only to staff. While the by-law sets minimum requirements for face-coverings, individual businesses may implement their own policies that exceed the requirements of the by-law The by-law includes a number of exemptions. Not everyone can wear
a mask and many disabilities are invisible. There’s no requirement for people to prove they are exempt. COVID-19 questions? Residents can learn more about Niagara’s Face-Covering By-law on our website, or call Niagara Region Public Health’s COVID-19 Info Line at 905-688-8248 or 1-888-505-6074, and press 7.
TOWNSHIP OF WEST LINCOLN 2019 FINANCIAL STATEMENT This is to advise that the Township of West Lincoln’s 2019 Financial Statements have been posted on the Township’s website at www.westlincoln.ca under “Township Office > Budgets and Finances > Financial Statements” or a hardcopy may be picked up from the Township Administration Building at 318 Canborough Street, Smithville, during regular working hours being 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Donna DeFilippis, Treasurer/Director of Finance 318 Canborough Street Smithville, Ontario L0R 2A0 (905) 957-3346
Picture it, if you will
Grimsby photographer Ken Cherney stands next to some of his work that is currently on display at the Grimsby Public Art Gallery’s ‘Silver Linings Exhibit’. Thanks to a grant from Canadian Council for the Arts, these works will go up online alongside the rest of the exhibit. Marks - Photo
Are You Having Trouble Hearing?
Smithville Hearing Clinic can help!
• Hearing Evaluations • Custom Hearing Protection Hearing Aid Fitting and Repairs • NO doctors referrals needed We will match our competitors pricing
905-957-0235 #12-249 St Catharines St. Smithville, ON www.smithvillehearingclinic.com
Karrinna Bourne-Cadman
Owner of Smithville Hearing Clinic
News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020 • Page 17
ADD YOUR VOICE TO NIAGARA’S OFFICIAL PLAN NIAGARA IS GROWING! The region is forecasted to grow to a minimum of 674,000 people and 272,000 jobs by the year 2051. To guide this growth, Niagara Region is creating a new Official Plan. The Niagara Official Plan will set out objectives and policies to shape Niagara’s physical development, while protecting what’s valuable. It will cover topics like: • • • •
Niagara’s natural environment and needs Growth allocations Housing Transportation
• • • •
Urban design Employment lands Agriculture and more
YOU’RE INVITED Attend a series of virtual public information centres to learn more about key directives and core policy information that will inform the Niagara Official Plan. Get informed, ask questions to staff, and provide your input on how Niagara should grow. If you require any accommodations for a disability in order to attend and participate in meetings or events, contact the Niagara Region’s Accessibility Coordinator at 905-685-4225 ext. 3252 or accessibility@niagararegion.ca. Information will be collected in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record. If you are not able to attend, you can provide input or ask questions by emailing makingourmark@niagararegion.ca, or contact David Heyworth, Official Plan Policy Consultant at 905-980-6000 ext. 3476
niagararegion.ca/official-plan makingourmark@niagararegion.ca
VIRTUAL PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRES Register for each of the following sessions at niagararegion.ca/official-plan. Video recordings will also be available online following the sessions.
Wednesday, Oct. 7 6:00 p.m. Topic: Growth Management - Growth Allocations, Settlement Area Boundary Review, Regional Structure, Land Needs, Housing
Thursday, Oct. 8 6:00 p.m. Topic: District & Secondary Plans, Urban Design, and Employment Lands
Tuesday, Oct. 20 6:00 p.m. Topic: Rural & Agriculture, Mineral Aggregate Resources, Archaeology & Culture
Wednesday, Oct. 21 6:00 p.m. Topic: Infrastructure, Water and Wastewater, Stormwater, Transportation
Page 18 • News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020
New procedural bylaw limits public discourse By Mike Williscraft NewsNow Grimsby council approved a new procedural bylaw at a special meeting Sept. 17 to usher in its new committee of the whole (COTW) format. The new bylaw includes a litany of changes to the public delegation process, limits an elected official’s officials’ ability to bring up new matters before council and reduces the powers of the mayor. Many of the changes in the delegation process constitute a major shift in thinking from what council’s direction was immediately after being elected in 2018. Among the changes, public delegations will not be able to get on the agenda to address matters already approved by council; “Delegations related to a previous decision of Council shall not be considered by Committee or Council within the term of Council unless there is a motion to reconsider.” On matters of policy, the moratorium is now four months. Coun. Lianne Vardy used the Town’s firearms bylaw - which was approved with council’s knowledge that it would need amending - to speak against this aspect. She also mentioned the Town’s fill bylaw. As well, when council approved its code of conduct at the first meeting at which it was presented in January - and with no public input - it was noted by Coun. Kevin Ritchie at the time it was a working document which would evolve and would need changes. The inclusion of this no-comment clause in the new bylaw does not allow for any delegation to speak to the code of conduct bylaw. “We make policy decisions which we come to understand were either the wrong decision or the decision needed refinement. We need to be able to come back and make whatever changes are necessary,” said Vardy. On matters of policy, Ritchie approved of reducing the window to four months. “Twelve months is a little long, but council has made a decision and we don’t want any knee jerk reactions and have delegations come to the next meeting,” said Ritchie. The four-month option was approved 5-4 with Councillors John Dunstall, Dave Kadwell, Ritchie, Dave Sharpe and Randy Vaine voting in favour. Opposed were Councillors Dorothy Bothwell, Reg Freake and
Vardy as well as Mayor Jeff Jordan. All votes taken were recorded. Another aspect supported by the same 5-4 vote split - a common theme for the procedural bylaw was: “Delegations must abide by the rules of procedure and public conduct at meetings. They will accept any decisions of the chair and not enter into cross debate with members, other delegations, or staff. Any disclosure between members and the delegation will be limited to members asking questions for clarification and obtaining additional, relevant information only without debate.” Those opposed noted interaction with delegations will be greatly limited if this was approved. “We, as council, should not be in debate with them,” Ritchie contended. Vardy disagreed. “I think debate is a very healthy part of discourse,” said Vardy, adding, it is important to “engage in a respectful debate. Respectful debate should be encouraged.” These measures could effectively end on-the-record debate between constituents and council and end residents’ ability to comment on a decision council has taken warned opponents of this limitation. These new policies are in stark contrast to the platforms outlined during the election run of opening up council to more accountability and transparency. “I think it is very important with the language that we use so that we are not excluding residents from being able to give an opinion as an issue evolves. We’ve seen many issues come many, many times back,” said Vardy. “I am not in favour of putting up a fence or a barrier.” There was consideration to completely remove the clause which reads: “Delegations related to a previous decision of council shall not be considered by COTW or council within the term of council unless there is a motion to reconsider.” This would have allowed open comment on the decisions of council regardless of timing. A motion to remove this was voted down 5-4 with Dunstall, Kadwell, Ritchie, Sharpe and Vaine voting in favour of maintaining this limitation, while Bothwell, Freake, Vardy and Jordan voted for it to be removed. Council also considered an item
which would remove their option to debate either a delegation or a member of staff during a meeting. This matter arose as recently as the last month when planning staff presented reports to council regarding the Century Condo project in which several councillors noted a lengthy series of shortcomings. If this component was approved, it would remove council’s ability to question staff on opinions given or reports submitted. Dunstall Ritchie and Vaine supported including this limitation, while Bothwell, Freake, Kadwell, Sharpe, Vardy and Jordan voted in favour of deleting it. There was also consideration of limiting council’s ability to revisit past decisions for either a year or six months as minimums. Sharpe said this change was far too limiting and the need to revisit an item can be serious and pressing. “To reconsider you need two-thirds majority, so you’re not just flipping votes,” he said. “We want to be able to reconsider. New information does come up. It also has to be someone who voted in the majority (who moves to bring an item back). I think we need to leave it open.” The example Sharpe cited is exactly what council used as a tool to get Homes By DeSantis’s Century Condo back on the operating table just a couple of hours later in the same meeting - with positive results. Councillors Kadwell and Ritchie voted to implement limiting the opportunity to revisit decisions, while Bothwell, Dunstall, Freake, Sharpe, Vaine, Vardy and Jordan voted to strike that portion. As well, one of the key concerns Bothwell had with the change to a COTW format from the outset of discussion was the length of meetings and the ability of council to give key topics their due via analysis and debate. Where delegations are concerned, they will now be only on a first come, first served basis based on the length of the agenda and limited to a maximum of five. The clerk has discretion to allow more. REDUCED POWER OF THE MAYOR Council will now have the ability to override the control which has always rested with the chair – typically the mayor in the COTW format – to eject members of council from the chamber.
This has come up a couple of times in the first two years of this council during debates when councillors got out of line and refused direction of the mayor. Now: “Any Member may appeal the Chair’s ruling through a majority vote when a Member is ordered to vacate the Council Chambers, and the Chair shall call a recess, prior to taking the vote.” Ritchie said the recess before the vote “to allow heads to cool off a little bit. Then members have an opportunity “to come forward with an apology and, if an apology is there, that allows them to come back.” Vardy, who has been on the receiving end of several attacks at the council table had several problems with the proposed amendment. Asking for clarification of what an appeal means Vardy said, “I want to understand what it means by ‘appealing the chair’s ruling’. Does that mean overturn the chair’s ruling? If appeal means overrule, I don’t agree. If appeal means ask the chair to reconsider, then I think that’s fine.” “As for allowing a member to apologize and return, I think sometime apologies are hollow...They come out of a practicality or a means to do or say whatever you want, then be able to say you’re sorry and then you get away with it. I do think, sometimes, there should be sanctions.” “Apologizing is fine, but I don’ t think that should necessarily allow the member to return.” Vaine, who has had issues with Vardy and had many heated exchanges disagreed. “I think, contrary to what Coun. Vardy is saying, I think as adults that we can all have heated moments and I think to disqualify someone from the chair is not only unfair to individuals but unfair to the constituents that they represent,” said Vaine. “Let’s just be adults about it and apologize, if required, and move on. Freake, who has also been the target of some on council - both Ritchie and Vaine were recently found to be in breach of the Town’s Code of Conduct by Integrity Commissioner Charles A. Harnick - also noted the mayor should have control of the council table. “Yes, we are adults. We are not kids. As kids, maybe you can forgive them because they are kids. We’re not kids. We’re adults and we know what See BYLAW, Page 19
BYLAW
From Page 18 the rules are. We know what the procedures are. We know what the Code of Conduct is, so when we come to this chamber after a year of being here, we should know what’s right or wrong and, if you did something wrong, why should you be allowed to vote to go back? I think that person should not be allowed to go back into the chamber.” As proposed, the offending member of council would be able to cast a vote as to whether their appeal was upheld or not. Sharpe asked clerk Sarah Kim for clarification as there were several moving parts to the appeal of the chair/mayor’s ruling. “The chair would make a ruling. Then the majority would overrule, no, overturn the decision of the chair,” said Kim. In the end this, too, was approved in a 5-4 vote with Dunstall, Kadwell, Ritchie, Sharpe and Vaine voting for and Bothwell, Freake, Vardy and Jordan voting against. Council added some flexibility to the procedural bylaw where making a delegation at a public meeting - such as a statutory open house - by approving: “Delegations will be permitted without prior registration during any public meeting as required by the Planning Act. Delegations are strongly encouraged to register before the delegation deadline.” Kim noted registering ahead of time to speak allows for more accurate planning for the public meetings themselves, meeting length; room size, etc. “This still allows people who have not registered to participate,” said Bothwell, noting not all residents are familiar with the details of making a delegation before council. Bothwell, Freake, Sharpe, Vardy and Jordan voted to allow non-registered speakers at public meetings. Dunstall, Kadwell, Ritchie and Vaine opposed. At the tail end of the bylaw discussion, Ritchie spoke to a series of new changes he supported. “There are a couple of components here that wasn’t there at the first ‘goabouts’ on this,” said Ritchie of the bylaw debate. “One was the defin..., the situation with the mayor and it is stated that the mayor shall act as a chief executive officer (CEO). I think that should be also included ‘the mayor shall act as the chief executive officer of the municipality as defined by the Municipal Act. So there’s clarification for that matter.” As well, Ritchie said he believed Grimsby should do away with the “New Business” portion of council agendas. New Business has been a
News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020 • Page 19 tool used in Grimsby and most municipalities for council members to bring up matters which others may not be aware or came up on short notice. Ritchie said he wants all topics at council controlled through a position on each agenda. “The second thing, with New Business, I’d like to bring that forward to a vote. I think that having New Business in there, I don’t want it to be confused that New Business is allowing for new motions or anything of that sort, or a Notice of Motion in that situation,” said Ritchie. “That is why the approval of the agenda should also include New Business and we should be looking at calling that section something else – Added Items or Additional Items. If we had Additional Items and Announcements, that is where we can get into some confusion of people bringing possible Notice of Motions without notifying the clerk.” “I also think we should put in this bylaw - I know you have worked very long and hard on this clerk, thank
you very much - but we have also all agreed that was a working document, or it was always my interpretation of it, I think that we should be looking at a review in six months.” Freake disagreed noting New Business is a “distinctive and useful tool which should remain as part of future agendas. “Most municipalities have that in their agendas. I believe we should have it in ours,” said Freake. One of the last things Freake said was “Announcements are announcements.” Ritchie jumped on this single comment. “One of the key things that I heard there was announcements. If it’s announcements we’re looking for then I think we should have a section called announcements. I think that’s a lot better. When I think of New Business...there’s a lot of things that can happen there,” said Ritchie. Kim clarified that there is already a spot built in for announcements, prompting Ritchie to say, “There is no need for New Business then.”
Sharpe somewhat disagreed citing examples of when New Business items need to be brought up on short notice. He outlined a recent need to submit a letter to the provincial government regarding rent relief. “That was new business,” noted Sharpe. “Certain business should require a Notice of Motion. Certain things come up and should be under New Business. It’s not a matter of budget. It’s not about asking staff for a report.” Kadwell picked up on Ritchie’s point about tightening the definition of “mayor”. “What is the difference between the CAO and a CEO?,” asked Kadwell. “The CAO (chief administrative officer) has more power than the (CEO). That is the clarification I was looking for.” Harry Schlange is the Town’s CAO. All Ritchie’s suggestions were approved in a 5-4 vote with Dunstall, Freake, Kadwell, Ritchie and Vaine voting in favour. Bothwell, Sharpe, Vardy and Jordan opposed.
Niagara REGION is
here for you COVID-19 has hit our community hard.
Let us know how we can serve you better
take the survey by Oct. 5, 2020:
NIAGARAREGION.CA/budget
Page 20 • News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020
Please call to place your Classified Ad
289-235-9500 OBITUARY
COOK, Derek Jonathan It is with broken hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved Derek. He has gone to be with His Lord and Saviour, too soon, at the young age of 36. Derek leaves an aching hole in the family and friends he leaves behind. He leaves behind his best friend, the love of his life, Hali, and his daughter Lylah, his heartbroken parents: Dave and Tricia Cook, siblings: Brian and Jess Cook, Janine Cook, Jeliesa and Mark Tiersma, nephews: Cohen and Luke Tiersma. Beloved son in law to Darlene Levinski and Ron Grenier. Loved by his Pake and Beppe, Peter and Maaike Brouwer, and his Opa and Oma, Dick and Cathy Kok. He will be terribly missed by many Uncles, Aunts, cousins, and friends including his work family at PostTime. Psalm 34:18 - “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Friends were received at Providence Christian Reformed Church on Friday, September 11, 2020 A Funeral Service was held at the church on Saturday, September 12 at 11:30 am. A live stream of the service is available at www.livestream. com/accounts/15586648/events/9300216/videos/210878030. A private interment took place at Lane Cemetery. Donations to the GoFundMe in support of Hali and Lylah can be made at https:// gf.me/u/yw55h3.
APT. FOR RENT Grimsby. Bright 1 bedroom apartment in an extremely quiet smoke free building. Stove, fridge and 1 parking space included. References required. Call 905-945-2848 to view
CLOCK REPAIRS
Clock Repairs
All makes and models, guaranteed workmanship, pick-up and delivery, specializing in Grandfather clocks.
905-935-1962
harrissonclockrepairs.com
COMING EVENTS Fundraiser vendor event and pick your own grapes. Sat. & Sun 10 am-3 pm. Every weekend thru October. 275 Ridge Rd W. Grimsby
HANDYMAN SERVICES RUBBISH AND JUNK REMOVAL. Call Ken 905-973-3235
ROOFING ROOFING Over 25 years of experience. Shingles and Flat warranty. Call Ken 905973-3235.
“The Golden Years” How do you want to spend your time after work? Travel to new places, take up a hobby, play with your grandkids, volunteer at the local hospital, pick up kayaking, learn Spanish? Do you know if you can afford your Golden Years lifestyle? Unsure? With our expertise and experience, we can help you explore and evaluate your retirement lifestyle financial goals. A plan developed by our CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER Will ensure you can enjoy your golden years. CONTACT THE VAUGHAN TEAM
Contact info: 120 King St. W., Suite 210, Hamilton, Ontario L8P 4V2 Phone: 905 570 1200/ 1 877 992 9978 ext. 230 • Fax: 905 570 1270 vaughan.team@dfsin.ca vaughanteam.ca PUBLIC NOTICE
VEHICLES WANTED CARS, trucks, old farm machinery for scrap or repair. We pay cash. Flatbed service. 905-386-6181 or 289686-5059.
Wanted - Scrap Cars and Trucks Cash paid Same day pick up Lampman Salvage
Used Auto Parts For Sale
905-957-2193 YARD WORK
Yard work helper required part time Grimsby area immediately, ideal for retiree, contact 905-3090090 or dwalton@ sympatico.ca
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF GRIMSBY 160 LIVINGSTON AVENUE, GRIMSBY, ON L3M 4G3 905-945-9634
2020 FINAL TAX BILLING
FINAL INSTALLMENT DUE OCTOBER 2, 2020 The amount of this installment is shown on the second stub of the bill mailed out in July. If you did not receive a tax bill, please contact the tax department at 905-945-9634 for further information. Failure to receive a bill does not excuse the payment of taxes. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are currently not accepting tax payments at Town Hall. Payments can be made at most financial institutions or by telephone and internet banking. Installments can also be paid by postdated cheques provided the taxes are paid by the regular due dates. No credit card payments are accepted at Town Hall. Please visit our website at www.grimsby.ca for further details on credit card payments. Please note: o Tax payments can be deposited in the Town Mail slot at the front entrance of Town Hall. Cheque payments only. o Penalties will be waived up to September 30, 2020, for current (2020) taxes only. All prior years’ arrears will be subject to a 1.25% interest charge for unpaid taxes. S. Gruninger, CPA, CGA Director of Corporate Services/Town Treasurer
HELP WANTED
TREE CARE
Poultry Technician
Full-time and part-time, daytime hours Catching and vaccinating poultry
No experience necessary, we will train. Face paced, hand-eye co-ordination needed. Must have transportation to Grimsby. Starting rate rate $20 $12 per per hour hour while while training Starting training Apply by email to: cicen@vaxxine.com
To Advertise in the Classifieds Call 289-235-9500
Fully Insured
Councillors “power plays” not needed: writer Dear Editor, Re: Grimsby:is your councillor working for you? It use to be that I would cringe whenever I read about Donald Trump’s actions or statements. These days, I am appalled by the behaviour of “the Grimsby 5”. In particular this week, I view Randy Vaine’s attempt to publicly shame Lianne Vardy’s support of a constituent’s request for a public meeting is nothing short of contempt of the open and transparent process he pro-
LETTERS fesses to support. He and Kevin Ritchie seem to suggest that a Zoom meeting is sufficient and they hide behind COVID as an excuse to prevent full and open access for all citizens of the proposals and plans for the latest Casablanca project. He seems to spit in the face of integrity and deserves to be reprimanded...PRIVATELY and
definitely FINANCIALLY ... but I know many are hoping PUBLICLY as that seems to be the way he handles others. Like the “Dump Trump” campaign, I hope constituents dump the “boys club” in the next election and get some new blood in there to ensure improved operations of council. There are more important issues that council needs to handle rather than the power plays of those five councillors. Stella Morettin, Grimsby
Councils should slow process during COVID Dear Editor, I am writing to voice my displeasure about certain building projects happening or being proposed to council. I, as a Grimsby citizen, am opposed to oversized, over populated buildings. 20-storey buildings have no place
in our town especially while blocking the view of the lake. I have watched what I feel is the destruction of the very core of Grimsby, that being a small town. We are not a big city, nor do we want to be. I was born and raised in Grimsby
and have watched the evolution and not in a good way. Our past council has allowed the builders to have full control of what they want to build and that is not the way it is supposed to work. We are a democratic society and therefore,
Mask letter writer off base: reader Dear Editor, In her letter, the writer stated that we have the right to choose not to wear a mask and that our governments are stepping above the law by requiring us to wear masks. She stated that “There are many randomized studies from scientists and doctors that indicate that wearing a mask is not safe.” As a Holistic Nutritionist she may have access to studies that we may not be aware of. She offered to supply a list of these studies. Yes, please. As an educated person, I, and per-
Starting October 19, 2020
haps other readers, would like assess the validly of these studies. The argument that the requirement that we wear masks in public, unless we have a valid medical reason, is beyond the pale is a fallacious argument. One could argue too that forbidding smoking indoors is an attack on our right to choose what do with our bodies. Both smoking and COVID however, can cause illness in, not just the individual, but those around them. Paul Magowan Beamsville
Changes are coming to waste collection
people should have a say. I personally have an email from the Honourable Premier Doug Ford stating it is up to council guided by the citizens as to what happens in our town. I will share that email if you wish, however I have already posted it to social media so people see that they have a voice. Your responsibility is to listen to the people and make wise decisions based on the information and input by said town residents. I would like to see a halt put on any building approvals and or sale of town property until this pandemic is under control and we as citizens may participate in any town meetings. I look forward to your response. Chris Jack, Grimsby
News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020 • Page 21
WINDOWS & SIDING SINCE 1966
Call 905.562.5831 for a FREE Estimate Visit us at: www.louwes.ca or 3435 King Street • Vineland
We Pay Top $$ For Scrap Vehicles Used Auto & Truck Parts 9530 Silver St., Caistor Centre 905-957-8111 www.plazek.com
ROBERT BRYER, BROKER ·Personal, skillful, and attentive service “Bob Bryer is the ultimate seasoned professional! He looks after your interests. He has an incredible memory for details about your goals and properties.” -Rob N.
CALL: 905-339-7078 rpbryer@gmail.com
Apex Results Realty Inc., Brokerage
R.C.L Branch 612 Beamsville
Haddock Dinner
Friday, September 25th 4:30-7:00 pm
Doors Open at 2:00 pm
$10 for one piece, $13 for two. Served with fries and coleslaw Eat inside, on the patio or take out 5545 Regional Rd. 81, Beamsville, Ont.
Learn more at niagararegion.ca/waste Waste Info-Line 905-356-4141 | 1-800-594-5542
Page 22 • News Now • Thursday, September 24, 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 NewsNow is owned & operated by 1602207 Ontario Ltd. Office Locations Grimsby Office Beamsville Office 1 Mountain Street, P.O Box 614 Grimsby, ON, L3M 3J6 Beamsville, ON, L0R 1B0 Ph: 289-235-9500 Ph: 289-235-7848 NewsNow is published EVERY Thursday delivered to homes in West Niagara & Winona, 26,529.
Smithville helps out
John Leith (Left) donates some funds to the West Lincoln Community Care (WLCC) Thanksgiving Campaign. Pierre Paradis (Right) and some of his fellow Knights of Columbus members were out in front of Smithville Foodland last Saturday gathering money and food donations for WLCC. Mayor Dave Bylsma and township staff run this weekend’s drive on Saturday, Sept. 26, and Wayne Schilstra of Re/Max Realty will be up to bat the Saturday after that. Marks - Photo.
Charitable policy needed Somebody needs to help some members of Grimsby council realize that the municipality is not a charity piggy bank. This has come up several times in this term of council where - sometimes out of the blue - a request will be made to make a donation to a charitable organization. Monday night it came up again when a mental health organization submitted a request for a second year. Clearly, there are exceptions. All our groups are great and needed, but other levels of government have the funds to support them - like Niagara Region or the Province of Ontario. Yes, Grimsby has a fund pooled from hydro stipends not taken. Great! Those are either personal funds or monies returned to the Town. If you want to give money away, yes, you need a policy for application and contribution. M.W.
Big week for Grimsby & downtown It was an epic week for Grimsby council and the start of something cool for downtown. It was a Titanic struggle and on life support at times but, finally getting all the players in one room regarding the Century Condo project has paid off. The meeting went very well despite covering such a complex topic which came fully armed with significant baggage on both sides of the matter. Most if not all that was put aside, a professional meeting ensued and a deal got done. Sincere congratulations to all involved. This project will be absolutely massive and it will be the tail that wags the dog in downtown Grimsby. Downtown just needs to be ready for it. No more time for whining or complaining. Gabe DeSantis was asked for concessions and he delivered. Good on him. The key to last Thursday’s special meeting of council was that the members who tend to muck up debates were marginalized considerably since they had already voted to support the previous plan which had insufficient parking, a half-baked plan to deal with the right-of-way through the site and concern around the restaurant use split. In fact, even while positive negotiations were underway last week, it was noted by a couple of them they wanted the previous one approved. For that reason, their opinions this night were inconsequential. This proved fortuitous for all. I won’t go through much of that since I went the extra mile and then some to make sure the community knows exactly how the events of debate unfolded. Yes, you can say it’s too big. Yes, you can say you don’t like its visual
MIKE WILLISCRAFT impact (which remained to be determined). However, the developer is playing by the rulebook and that is all we can ask. Nobody in this area made up that rulebook, but we have to live by it just the same. With this project, the major sewer/water upgrade plan by Niagara Region and some consideration for an Ontario Street “renovation” (for lack of a better term) all potentially evolving in the next 3-5 years. Council was right when they spoke of the importance of Century Condos being a starting point. This is a time when proper planning can make downtown Grimsby a destination anyone would want to visit. It all starts now. Conversely, we have Winston Road et al. Between the Century Condo debate and consideration Monday night about selling off pieces of town-owned land around town - including a parcel on the North Service Road right across from the old Fifth Wheel site - the problems in the Winston Road area got a lot of air time at council. Monday night, a presentation for the proposed Losani Homes project at Fifth Wheel came up. It was largely considered “premature” by council and was sent back for revisions and more detail on several points to come back in about two months. My point on that topic -
talking the Losani project now - is why stop at 20 storeys. Look at that area now. The land is zoned for 12 storeys, but limiting the Fifth Wheel site to that is a pipe dream given the surroundings. I say to 30, pump the density BUT maximize the waterfront and parkland WITH ample parking. This does not mean dancing on the guidelines. Let the developer go high enough so he can make enough money to include a parking garage above and/or below ground. With less land used, more would be available for parking and public use. Yes, there are still traffic issues and other items to be considered but Fifth Wheel is unique. There is no other residential nearby, so one or three towers that Fred Losani and his team want to build won’t have shade impact or other impacts on any residences. Anyone who does buy in there will clearly know what they are getting, so take the wraps off and go. There is homework to do, for sure, it’s not like Losani should be handed carte blanche, but managing the project to maximize the opportunity could go a long way to help that area. It would be nice to see 200 public parking spaces out there and businesses sure would love it. Now, just to wrap up, a quick note on the councillor emails from last week. You may wonder why I published those. Simply, people don’t believe me fully when I try to explain to them just how bad council behaves, some of them, anyways. Printing those emails, in their own words, no edits, provides a glimpse. I regularly hear from people who have questioned councillors about things to be told, “You’re only getting half the story” or some such. Well, the whole story was right there. Make of it what you will.
News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020 • Page 23
Consituent disappointed by conduct of councillors (Editor’s Note: The following was sent to Mayor Jeff Jordan and Councillors Kevin Ritchie, Randy Vaine, Lianne Vardy and Reg Freake.) I read with interest the latest dialogue between Councillors Vardy, Ritchie and Vaine. Then I shook my head in disbelief. General Principles: They are expected to be mindful of the importance of their duties and responsibilities, to take into account the public character of their function and to conduct themselves in a way that maintains and promotes the public’ s trust in the Town of Grimsby. To answer the question: Grimsby: is your councillor working for you? In my ward, the answer is: NO. Is this the same Kevin Ritchie who waxed so eloquent just a few weeks ago about how you ALL need to get along, interspersed with platitudes of working together etc?? Mr. Ritchie should hardly be lecturing anyone about integrity and code of conduct, although he is becoming somewhat of an expert in this area. “Further to that we as individual councilors should not be directing staff. We only have powers when we act as a council and pass decisions as a whole council. In my perception of this email I am asking you to apologize for accusing staff in acting as supporters of the developers. This is an attack on their integrity and any comments that attacks ones integrity goes against our code of conduct.” Councilor Vardy did NOT accuse anyone of acting as supporters of the developers, nor did she direct
LETTERS staff to do anything. The letter I read said “I am ASKING our CAO Mr. Schlange to follow up”. How is that directing? Dictionary: ASK (verb) – try to get information. Mr. Ward is the one who so stated “It is disheartening (sic) to see the Planning Department acting as supporters of the developers rather than protectors of the Town’s interests”… Not Councilor Vardy. She simply agreed that “that it is inappropriate for planning staff to advocate on behalf of developers”. But Councilors Ritchie and Vaine jump the gun and ‘make stuff up’ (again). Ritchie: “In my perception”. Frankly Mr. Ritchie, your perception is of no interest to the average citizen who sees this as just another opportunity to bash fellow councilors. So much for your speech. Let’s not forget you were censured for your own accusations and behaviour. Then Vaine elaborates and puts in his OWN words…. “Not only have you publicly accused our planning staff of being; In my interpretation of your email, “Untrustworthy, unprofessional, biased, and showing favoritism,” and this can be deemed as defamation, harassment and abuse towards our staff, but you have also clearly and publicly shown a contempt and hostility towards our planning staff. There is nothing to interpret here Councilor Vaine. It is clear that you are not fond of Councilor Vardy. I read and then sat through the entire Integrity
Commissioner reporting of all the various accusations flying around. Of course, none of this analysis is done for free. We (the concerned citizens) of Grimsby will just be billed in next year’s taxes. Did you two gentlemen read a different email? You felt obligated to apologize for something that wasn’t said? You are basing your accusations on ‘your perceptions and interpretations”. In a real business – this kind of nonsense would not be tolerated. But we are stuck with this crap for another 2 years. Sigh. We really need to cut it out and focus on getting this town back on track. We didn’t elect you to waste the money of our citizens on childish school-yard bully techniques. Please get FOCUSED on running the town. If this wasn’t such a waste of time it would be comical. Meanwhile, my taxes have risen hundreds of dollars based on historical mistakes. Next year we will be adding more money into the tax base to address all the legal expenses for the finger pointing that has gone on throughout 2020. Mayor Jordan – surely there must be some Municipal policy that allow you put these truant children into separate corners for a timeout? Or are we truly stuck with this foolishness until October 24, 2022? If council worked half as hard at fixing things as they do at finger pointing we would be in a much better place. Instead, we are bracing for yet another round of Integrity Commissioner bills methinks. Just. Plain. Sad. I am a concerned and disappointed resident. Mark Radey, Ward 1 Grimby
Nobody has right to risk well-being of others, says writer Dear Editor, Firstly, let me say thank you for the “Newsnow” a local newspaper to be proud of. Now I have to respond to the last letter in the paper from Linda Murphy. I was somewhat incensed and felt I had to say something. So here goes: Dear Linda, It is not your “right”
to risk my health and well being. I can provide you with solid, factual, evidence based information that shows that mask wearing is our most safe, practical, cost effective way to help manage the spread of this deadly disease vs your rantings from the internet. So please wear a mask as this is my precious like that we’re
talking about. Oh, by the way, should you need surgery in the future I’d
Dear Editor, Re: Mask bylaw does not supercede Constitution Wow! I wear a mask to protect my neighbor against the deadly Covid and perhaps a small amount of personal protection. Maybe I am a little more well-
meaning and less well-educated as you say you are. I am an average Joe that believes these masks save lives. I have noted your RHN (registered holistic nutritionist) is a registered trade mark only. I do believe an employer has
into your open wound. Thank you. Susan Oliver
OPEN
Brokerage
SHOP LOCAL SINCE 1989 Home Office
bilko@rgcmail.com www.bilko.ca
Main Office
18 Albert St. E., Thorold, ON L2V 1P1 T: 905-227-3777 • F: 905-227-5988 E: youngmcnamara@hotmail.com
905-562-3000
3915 21st Street, Jordan
Larry
“BILKO”
Bus. 905-563-3330
Bilkszto
Sales Representative
IN THE
BEST WEST DIAMOND AWARD
CALL US FOR
Your Local Audiologist
Never feel disconnec ted again.
Glenn’s Painting Services
ü ear wax removal ü hearing tests ü hearing aid (sales, repairs, supplies) ü home visits and more!
Interior Painting
905-563-0011
Established in 2000
2020
a right to protect his employees and patrons and insist on masks being worn in his shop. There are many circumstances that allow us to supersede the Constitution. Get someone to shop for you. John Begin, Grimsby
NOW
Garden City Realty Inc.,
Barristers • Solictors • Notaries J. Christopher Young
Grimsby T: 289-205-1265 • F: 905-227-5988
you are not concerned with him/her breathing, coughing or sneezing
Employer has right to protect employees: reader
YOUNG MCNAMARA Specializing in Family Law, Real Estate, Corporate and Wills & Estates
be happy to let your surgeon know that he/she does no need a mask as
Call Anne
905-945-3782
www.glennspaintingservices.com
Locally Owned | Our office is safe and sanitized!
11-5041 King Street, Beamsville www.premiumhearingclinic.com
We accept WSIB, VAC, Greenshield and other insurances.
Page 24 • News Now • Thursday, September 24, 2020
WE SUPPORT OUR LOCAL
FARMERS !!
& 432 Highland Rd. E., Stoney Creek
(Highland & Tapleytown Rd.)
BAC AVA IL
Hours: Mon/Tues/Wed. 7 am-6 pm Thurs: 7 am-6 pm • Fri. 7 am-6 pm Sat: 7 am-6 pm • Closed Sun
PRODUCE: BUY FRESH, BUY LOCAL
FRESH LEAN GROUND BEEF, PORK or MIX
4.99qt ASS’T SqUASH................................................ 99¢lb CAULIFLOWER .................................... $2.99ea COOKING ONIONS 10 lb Bag ... $5.99ea NEW GREEN CABBAGE ................ $1.99ea MUSHROOMS ......................................$3.99qt ASS’T APPLES 5 lb ............................$5.99ea PEARS 2 L. Basket................................ $4.99ea LEEKS ...............................................................$2.79ea WHITE POTATOES 10 lb Bag .... $3.49ea LOCALLY GROWN
STRAWBERRIES ...............................
$
2
LOCALLY GROWN
$ 99
LOCALLY GROWN LOCALLY GROWN LOCALLY GROWN LOCALLY GROWN LOCALLY GROWN LOCALLY GROWN LOCALLY GROWN
BAKERY:
STORE BAKED
ASS’T TURNOVER Pkg of 3 ..................... $3.49ea STORE MADE
LARGE CREAM HORNS ...........................$1.29ea D’ITALIANO
ORIGINAL BREAD .................................. $2.99ea LOTS OF ASS’T
LA ROCCA CAKES AVAILABLE .........$22.99ea DELI:
HIGHLANDS
COOKED HAM 100 gram .............................$1.34
/lb
CUDDY OVEN
ROAST TURKEY BREAST 100 gram ............. $2.63
6.60 KG.
SALERNO
BRICK CHEESE 100 gram ...........................$2.31 FISH:
FROZEN
SHRIMP RING 284 gram ........................ $5.49ea FROZEN
BAY SCALLOP 400 gram......................... $7.99ea
LOCALLY GROWN
FROZEN
3.99ea $ ........ 2.99ea $ ............ 4.99ea $ .................... 4.99ea
DICED BUTTERNUT SqUASH 1 kg. FROZEN J.J. WILK
CAFE
KRANSJKA SAUSAGE ON A BUN, FRIES, POP OR WATER ...........................$5.99ea
$
THURSDAY ONLY:
ASS’T PEROGIES 907 gram FROZEN
VEAL PARMIGIANNI ON A BUN .. $7.99ea
WHOLE CRANBERRIES 1 kg. FROZEN DOULBE STAR
STEAK CUT FRIES 5 lb.
SATURDAY ONLY:
PORKETTA ON A BUN APPLE BUTTER, COLESLAW, POP OR WATER .............. $7.99ea
thanksgiving
FRESH CHICKEN DRUMSTICKS 3.95 kg. .
HIGHLANDS NATURALLY SMOKED
OLD FASHION HAM WHOLE OR HALF
8.80 kg.
3
$ 99
lb
1
$ 79
lb
FRESH WHOLE FRYER CHICKEN 6.15 kg. .
2
$ 79
lb
$ CAPON ........ 7.69 lb................. FROZEN
905-662-8396
will soon be here!!
HIGHLANDS
SWEET PICKLED COTTAGE ROLL 7.69 kg.
3.49
MANY MORE IN-STORE SPECIALS
3
$ 49
Specials effective Thursday, September 24 - Wednesday, September 30, 2020
lb.
lb.
please order your turducken, fresh turkey, butter ball turkey, pork crownroast, fresh lamb, goat, bbq pig, spiral sliced ham or prime rib roast
OLIEBOLLEN
AND APPLE FRITTERS
EVERY SATURDAY FROM 11-3 PM
www.highlandcountrymarkets.com