Weekly Digest (1/26 - 2/1)
Emergency Watermain Repair on Hellen Ave. in Timmins
Date: 2025-01-26
The City of Timmins has announced an emergency watermain repair on Hellen Ave., affecting the area from Legion to Moore. The Environmental Services Department has informed residents that they will experience low water pressure overnight. Additionally, there may be occurrences of brown or rust-coloured water.
Residents are advised by the department not to drink or wash laundry with discoloured water, as it can stain clothing. The department assures that the discoloured water is not harmful to h
McIntyre Community Centre Closed Due to Watermain Break
Date: 2025-01-27
The McIntyre Community Centre in Timmins has been closed indefinitely following a watermain break, as reported by the City of Timmins' Environmental Services Department. This closure affects the entire facility, including the McIntyre Coffee Shop.
Due to the closure, hockey games that were scheduled to be held at the McIntyre Arena as part of the Porcupine Minor Hockey Association’s Winter Classic Hockey Tournament are being relocated to alternative venues. The city has not provided a specific
MV Northumberland Arrives to Serve PEI to Nova Scotia Route
Date: 2025-01-27
The MV Northumberland, previously known as the MV Fanafjord, has arrived in Canada. According to a government press release, the vessel will operate on the route between Wood Islands, Prince Edward Island, and Caribou, Nova Scotia. This addition aims to enhance the maritime connectivity between these regions, serving both residents and visitors.
The MV Northumberland is expected to commence service soon, contributing to the transportation infrastructure in the area. The government announcement
Timmins Issues Extreme Cold Weather Alert for January 27, 2025
Date: 2025-01-27
The City of Timmins has issued an extreme cold weather alert for Monday, January 27, 2025. Temperatures are expected to drop to -34°C overnight, including wind chill factors, as reported by the city.
Residents are advised to take precautions against the severe cold, which can lead to health issues such as frostbite and hypothermia. Recommended measures include avoiding exposure to the wind, dressing in warm layers, and covering exposed skin.
Emergency shelter is available at 316 Spruce St. S
Canada Launches Immigration Pilots for Rural and Francophone Areas
Date: 2025-01-27
On January 30, 2025, the Canadian government announced the initiation of two new immigration pilots targeting rural and Francophone communities. These initiatives, named the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) and the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP), aim to draw skilled newcomers to specific regions across Canada.
The RCIP is designed to address labor shortages in rural areas by offering a pathway to permanent residence for newcomers who can fill essential job roles. Meanwh
Timmins Police Seek Public Assistance in Locating Missing Person Ecghardt
Date: 2025-01-27
The Timmins Police Service is seeking public assistance in locating Ecghardt, who has been reported missing. The police have not disclosed specific details about Ecghardt's last known whereabouts or physical description in the release.
Residents with any information that could assist in locating Ecghardt are encouraged to contact the Timmins Police Service. The police emphasize the role of community involvement in such cases to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.
Timmins Announces City-Wide Snow Plowing for January 28
Date: 2025-01-28
The City of Timmins Public Works Department has announced that a city-wide snow plowing operation will commence on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, starting at 12:01 am. The operation is expected to continue throughout the day and may extend into the evening.
The snow plowing will cover city streets, rural roads, laneways, and parking lots. Residents are advised to be mindful of the plowing activities and adjust their travel plans accordingly.
This information has been provided by the City of Timm
Timmins Police Issue Warning on Scam Involving False Government Debt Claims
Date: 2025-01-28
The Timmins Police Service has alerted the public to a scam involving fraudsters who falsely claim that individuals owe money to the government or other agencies. According to the police, these scammers use aggressive tactics, including threats of arrest, charges, or fines, to coerce victims into making immediate payments.
Residents are advised to be cautious and not to disclose personal or financial information to unsolicited contacts. The police recommend verifying any claims by directly con
Emergency Watermain Repair Underway Near McIntyre Community Centre
Date: 2025-01-28
The City of Timmins' Environmental Services Department has announced an emergency watermain repair affecting the area around the McIntyre Community Centre. The repair work is taking place on Father Costello Dr. from Vipond to McIntyre Rd., extending down McIntyre.
The repair began immediately and is expected to continue until approximately 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. During this time, residents in the affected area will experience a temporary loss of water service.
Following the
Ontario Announces $325 Million for Water Infrastructure Projects
Date: 2025-01-28
The Ontario government has announced a $325 million investment to support water infrastructure projects across the province. This funding, provided through the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund (HEWSF), aims to assist municipalities in developing and upgrading essential water systems. According to the Ontario Ministry of Infrastructure, the initiative is intended to facilitate the construction of up to 107,000 new homes.
The investment will be allocated to various municipalities to enhance d
Timmins Adjusts Snow Removal Schedule for January 2025
Date: 2025-01-28
The City of Timmins Public Works has announced that there will be changes to the snow removal schedule for the week of January 25, 2025. This adjustment is due to a city-wide snow plowing event.
Residents in South Porcupine should note that snow removal will not occur on Monday, January 27, 2025, in certain areas. The affected streets include Golden (Legion to Evans), Bruce (Legion to Lakeview), Crawford (Golden to Shamrock), Main (Strachan to Shamrock), and Powell (Legion to Crawford). The Ci
Timmins Police Request Public's Help in Locating Missing Person
Date: 2025-01-28
The Timmins Police Service is requesting assistance from the public in locating a missing person named April. She has been reported missing, and the police are seeking any information that could aid in finding her.
Details about April's disappearance have not been disclosed, but the police urge anyone with information to contact them. Community members who may have seen April or have relevant information are encouraged to reach out to the Timmins Police Service.
This appeal is part of the on
Ontario Allocates $1.3 Billion for New School Construction and Expansion
Date: 2025-01-28
The Ontario government has announced a $1.3 billion investment aimed at constructing 30 new schools and expanding 15 existing ones throughout the province. This initiative is projected to create over 25,000 new student spaces and more than 1,600 new licensed child care spaces.
The projects have been selected through the 2024-25 Capital Priorities program, which is designed to address the growing need for educational facilities in rapidly developing areas. The investment also seeks to enhance a
Timmins Opens Applications for Community Improvement Plan Grants
Date: 2025-01-28
The City of Timmins will begin accepting applications for the Community Improvement Plan (CIP) grants, including the Safety Improvement Grant, starting at 9:00 a.m. on February 5, 2025. The CIP is designed to support the enhancement, reuse, and restoration of land, buildings, and infrastructure through municipal incentive programs.
Eligible businesses located in downtown Timmins and certain designated areas can apply for grants such as the Building Improvement Grant, Façade Improvement Grant,
Special Council Meeting Announced for January 28, 2025
Date: 2025-01-28
A special council meeting has been announced by the Township of Black River-Matheson. The meeting is set for Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. It will take place at 171 Fourth Avenue, Cochrane, Ontario, in the Council Chambers.
This meeting is organized under section 9 of the procedural by-law 1526-2022. Attendees have the option to participate either in person or online.
Ontario Invests $1.8 Billion to Improve Primary Care Access
Date: 2025-01-28
The Ontario government has announced an investment of $1.8 billion to enhance access to primary care across the province. This funding aims to connect two million more residents to a publicly funded family doctor or primary care team within four years. The investment includes $1.4 billion in new funding and over $400 million in previously approved funding.
Royal Canadian Navy Reports Death of Sailor in Halifax
Date: 2025-01-29
The Royal Canadian Navy has reported the death of Petty Officer, 2nd Class Gregory Applin following an incident in Halifax on January 24, 2025. The incident occurred during small boat operations in the Bedford Basin while Applin was serving aboard His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Montréal.
Gregory Applin, who held the position of Weapons Engineering Technician, joined the Royal Canadian Navy in 2005. Over his 19-year career, he served nearly 500 days at sea on various HMC Ships, including re
Timmins Secures $9 Million for Housing Development
Date: 2025-01-29
The City of Timmins will receive $9 million from the Ontario government’s Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund to support the expansion of the Melrose Heights subdivision. This funding will facilitate the creation of approximately 257 residential lots.
The project is planned in two phases, beginning with the installation of over 2,100 meters of infrastructure. The funds are allocated for the engineering, design, and construction of water mains, storm, and sanitary sewers.
Scott Tam, Director
HMCS Harry DeWolf Begins Counter-Narcotics Mission
Date: 2025-01-29
His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Harry DeWolf departed from Halifax, Nova Scotia, on January 26 for a six-week deployment. The mission, known as Operation CARIBBE, involves counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. The ship will work alongside the United States Coast Guard (USCG) to monitor and intercept vessels suspected of drug trafficking. Sailors from HMCS Harry DeWolf will support boarding and maritime interdiction operations with USCG Tactical Law En
Extreme Cold Weather Alert Issued for Northeast Ontario
Date: 2025-01-29
An extreme cold weather alert has been issued for Northeast Ontario, effective Tuesday, January 28, 2025. Local authorities report that temperatures are expected to drop to -27 degrees Celsius overnight, factoring in wind chill.
Health officials caution that exposure to these conditions can lead to frostbite and hypothermia. Residents are advised to take precautions such as avoiding wind exposure, wearing warm layers, and covering exposed skin.
Emergency shelter is available at 316 Spruce St
Ontario and Aroland First Nation Sign Infrastructure Agreement
Date: 2025-01-29
Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Aroland First Nation Chief Sonny Gagnon have signed an agreement to enhance infrastructure and economic development in Northern Ontario. The agreement includes plans to upgrade Anaconda and Painter Lake Roads, which are vital connections to the mineral-rich Ring of Fire region.
The Ontario government has committed $70 million towards planning the Greenstone Electricity Transmission Line, in collaboration with First Nations, including Aroland. Additionally, $20 mil
Ontario Invests $9.2 Million in Timmins Water Infrastructure
Date: 2025-01-29
The Ontario government has allocated $9,198,000 for water infrastructure improvements in Timmins. This funding is intended to facilitate the construction of up to 200 new homes in the area. The investment is part of the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund, which provides a total of $325 million to support municipalities across Ontario in building, repairing, rehabilitating, and expanding water infrastructure.
This initiative is part of the second intake of the fund, aimed at addressing critica
Transport Canada Constructs Prototype Building in Eight Days
Date: 2025-01-29
Transport Canada has completed the construction of a prototype building in eight days at the former Killaloe Airport site. The 380-square-foot structure was assembled using pre-fabricated panels from FLEX Structure, a company based in British Columbia. These panels are designed to be insulated, durable, and weather-sealed, contributing to the building's energy efficiency.
The project is part of Transport Canada's exploration of new construction technologies aimed at reducing building times. Po
Minister Blair Announces New Housing Units at CFB Borden
Date: 2025-01-29
The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, announced the construction of new Residential Housing Units (RHUs) at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Borden. This announcement was made during a visit to the base, where Minister Blair provided an update on the progress of the construction. Additionally, a new 350-room training accommodations facility was officially opened during the visit. These developments are intended to support the needs of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members stationed at
Smooth Rock Falls Addresses Key Issues at ROMA 2025
Date: 2025-01-29
The Town of Smooth Rock Falls participated in the 2025 ROMA Conference, engaging with key ministries to address local issues. Representatives met with the Ministry of Infrastructure, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, and the Ministry of Northern Development.
Discussions focused on the impact of reduced funding from the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF) on local projects. The town highlighted the necessity for increased funding for small rural northern communities, parti
Public Meeting Scheduled by Kapuskasing District Planning Board for February 10, 2025
Date: 2025-01-29
The Kapuskasing District Planning Board has announced a public meeting to be held on February 10, 2025. The meeting is set for 6:00 p.m. at the Civic Centre, located at 88 Riverside Drive in Kapuskasing, Ontario.
The focus of the meeting will be a proposed amendment to the Official Plan. Residents and interested parties are encouraged to attend to learn more about the proposed changes and participate in the discussion.
Cochrane Public Meeting Announced for Minor Variance Application
Date: 2025-01-29
A public meeting is set to discuss a minor variance application in Cochrane. The application, labeled A09-2024, has been submitted by J. Bussiere for the property at 311 Tenth Street. The legal description of the property is Lot 25 on Plan 6M494, Roll No. 5639 010 005 28280 0000.
The application seeks to address a deficient lot area and frontage to enable the construction of a duplex dwelling. The proposed lot area is 647.20 square metres, compared to the required 750 square metres. Additional
Ontario Election Scheduled for February 27 After Parliament Dissolution
Date: 2025-01-29
Premier Doug Ford has announced that the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, has agreed to dissolve the 43rd Parliament of Ontario. This decision took effect at 4:00 p.m. on the day of the announcement. The dissolution sets the stage for a provincial election, which is scheduled for February 27.
The announcement was made in Toronto, where Premier Ford outlined the procedural steps leading to the upcoming election. The Lieutenant Governor's acceptance of the premier's advic
City Council Approves 2025 Taxation Fund Budget with 3.43% Increase
Date: 2025-01-29
The City Council has approved the 2025 taxation fund budget, which includes a 3.43% increase from the previous year. This budget is designed to manage the collection, spending, and investment of funds necessary for operating costs and capital projects.
The taxation fund budget is a component of the City's overall municipal budget. It is combined with budgets from the City’s Agencies, Boards, and Commissions (ABCs), MPAC property assessments, and provincial education rates to determine the fina
Smooth Rock Falls Special Council Meeting Set for January 30th
Date: 2025-01-29
The Town of Smooth Rock Falls has scheduled a Special Council Meeting for January 30th, 2025. The meeting will commence at 6:30 pm and will be held at the Town Hall.
The agenda includes a closed session to discuss a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board. This session will be conducted under the authority of section 239(2)(c) & (k) of the Municipal Act, which permits closed meetings for such discussions.
Residents are informed of the meeting
Ontario Allocates Funds for Hospital Beds in Timmins
Date: 2025-01-29
The Ontario government is allocating over $5,949,500 this year to support more than 41 hospital beds in Timmins. This funding is part of a broader initiative aimed at enhancing hospital capacity across the province, which includes a total investment of $257 million to support over 3,500 acute, post-acute, and critical care beds.
George Pirie, Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Timmins, emphasized the importance of this investment for the local community. He stated that this funding will
Timmins Secures $9 Million for Housing Infrastructure
Date: 2025-01-29
The City of Timmins is set to receive $9 million from the Ontario government’s Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund. This funding is designated for the Melrose Heights subdivision expansion, which will transform municipal land into approximately 257 residential lots. The project is planned in two phases, starting with the installation of over 2,100 meters of infrastructure.
The funding will support the engineering, design, and construction of essential infrastructure, including water mains, sto
Timmins City Council Approves 2025 Taxation Fund Budget
Date: 2025-01-30
The Timmins City Council has approved the 2025 taxation fund budget, which includes a 3.43% increase from the previous year. This budget is part of the overall municipal budget that incorporates contributions from city agencies, boards, and commissions, as well as assessments from the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) and provincial education rates. The final property tax rate for 2025 is anticipated to be confirmed by April.
The operating budget for 2025 is set at $38,758,611,
Kapuskasing Planning Board Announces Public Meeting on Zoning Changes
Date: 2025-01-30
The Kapuskasing District Planning Board has announced a public meeting to discuss a proposed zoning by-law amendment. This meeting is set to take place at the Civic Centre in Kapuskasing on February 15, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
The meeting aims to gather public input regarding the proposed changes, which involve rezoning certain areas to facilitate new residential developments. Residents of Kapuskasing and nearby areas are invited to attend and participate in the discussion.
This announcement is p
Health Canada Confirms Safety of Hard Water in Northeast Ontario
Date: 2025-01-30
Residents in Northeast Ontario are informed about the latest update regarding hard water in the region. Health Canada has stated that drinking hard water is safe and does not pose any health risks. The presence of calcium and magnesium in hard water can contribute to the recommended daily intake of these essential minerals.
The Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality do not establish limits for water hardness, as it is considered more of an aesthetic and operational concern rather than
Extreme Cold Weather Alert Issued for January 30, 2025
Date: 2025-01-30
Local authorities have issued an extreme cold weather alert for Thursday, January 30, 2025. Residents in the Northeast of Ontario, including Timmins, should prepare for temperatures that are expected to drop to -25 degrees Celsius overnight, with wind chill considered.
Health officials caution that exposure to these extreme temperatures can lead to serious health conditions, such as frostbite and hypothermia. To reduce these risks, it is advised to avoid wind exposure, dress in warm layers, an
Cochrane Planning Board Approves Land Severance Application
Date: 2025-01-31
The Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board has approved a consent application for land severance in the Town of Cochrane. The application, designated as B09-2024, concerns lands described as Part Lot 7, Part Lot 8, Concession 6, Lamarche Township.
This decision, made under the authority of Section 53 of the Planning Act of Ontario, includes several conditions. These conditions require the applicant to meet municipal requirements, provide a registered survey, and obtain a Zoning By-law Amendment.
Cochrane Committee Approves Variance for Duplex on Tenth Street
Date: 2025-01-31
The Committee of Adjustment in the Town of Cochrane has approved a minor variance application for the property at 311 Tenth Street. This decision, made under Section 45 of the Planning Act of Ontario, R.S.O. 1990, c.P. 13, as amended, allows for adjustments in the lot area and frontage to accommodate a duplex dwelling.
The application, submitted by J. Bussiere, sought approval for a minimum lot area of 647.20 square metres and a minimum lot frontage of 16.18 metres. The Committee's approval co
Statistics Canada Releases July 2024 Labour Statistics
Date: 2025-01-31
Statistics Canada has released its labour statistics for July 2024, showing an increase in payroll employment and a decrease in job vacancies. Payroll employment rose by 32,800, or 0.2%, following a decline in June. Over the past year, there has been an increase of 157,700 jobs, or 0.9%.
Sector-specific changes include a rise in health care and social assistance jobs by 17,600, or 0.7%. Public administration added 8,000 jobs, a 0.6% increase, and retail trade saw an increase of 2,300 jobs, or
Cochrane Releases Mayor's Mid Term Review Videos
Date: 2025-01-31
The Town of Cochrane has released a series of videos as part of the Mayor's Mid Term Review. These videos, available on YouTube, cover several key areas of local governance and development.
The series includes discussions on various topics:
- Accomplishments: Highlights of the town's achievements over the past term.
- Doctor Recruitment: Efforts to bring more medical professionals to the area.
- Housing Development: Updates on residential expa
Statistics Canada Reports Increase in Wages and Decline in Job Vacancies
Date: 2025-01-31
Statistics Canada has released data indicating a rise in average hourly wages for Canadian employees in the second quarter of 2024. The report shows a 5.1% increase in wages compared to the previous year.
The breakdown of wage growth by employment type reveals that full-time positions experienced a 6.6% increase, resulting in an average hourly wage of $28.20. Part-time positions saw a 7.7% rise, with wages averaging $22.50 per hour. Permanent positions increased by 7.2%, reaching an average wa
Smooth Rock Falls Regular Council Meeting Set for February 3rd, 2025
Date: 2025-01-31
The Town of Smooth Rock Falls has scheduled its Regular Council Meeting for February 3rd, 2025. The meeting will commence at 6:30 pm and will be held at the Town Hall in Smooth Rock Falls.
This session is part of the town's routine council meetings, which are open to the public.
Extreme Cold Weather Alert for January 31, 2025
Date: 2025-01-31
A weather alert has been issued for Northeast Ontario, warning of extreme cold conditions on Friday, January 31, 2025. Local authorities report that temperatures are expected to fall to -33 degrees Celsius overnight, including wind chill effects.
Health experts caution that exposure to these temperatures can result in frostbite and hypothermia. Residents are advised to take precautions such as avoiding wind exposure, wearing warm layers, and covering exposed skin.
For those needing emergency
Smooth Rock Falls Marks Black History Month with Flag and Education
Date: 2025-02-01
Smooth Rock Falls will observe Black History Month this February by flying a Black History Month flag for the entire month. The town will also provide educational materials on its Facebook page to inform the community about the contributions and legacy of Black Canadians.
Black History Month is recognized annually across Canada, highlighting the impact of Black Canadians and their communities. This year's theme is "Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future
Canada Delays Capital Gains Inclusion Rate Change to 2026
Date: 2025-02-01
The Canadian government has announced a delay in the implementation of a change to the capital gains inclusion rate. Originally scheduled for June 25, 2024, the change will now take effect on January 1, 2026. This announcement was made by the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs.
The capital gains inclusion rate is the portion of capital gains that is subject to taxation. The planned adjustment will increase this rate from one-half to two-thirds. This c
Smooth Rock Falls February Updates: Family Day Closures and Council Meetings
Date: 2025-02-01
Smooth Rock Falls February Updates: Family Day Closures and Council Meetings
The Town of Smooth Rock Falls has announced that the Town Hall and Arena will be closed on February 17th for Family Day. This closure is part of the town's observance of the holiday.
Council meetings are scheduled for February 3rd and February 18th, both starting at 6:30 p.m. Residents can access these meetings virtually through links provided on the Town's official website.
Additionally, highlights from the regul
Timmins Snow Removal Schedule Announced for February 2-6, 2025
Date: 2025-02-01
The Public Works Department in Timmins has scheduled snow removal operations from February 2 to February 6, 2025. Nighttime operations will occur from 9:00 pm to 7:00 am, while daytime operations are set from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.
The areas designated for nighttime snow removal include:
- February 2, 2025: Algonquin Blvd, Mountjoy St, and Pine St.
- February 3, 2025: Cedar St, Balsam St, and Spruce St.
- February 4, 2025: Maple St, Birch St, and