Weekly Digest (3/9 - 3/15)
Timmins Ends Significant Weather Event Advisory
Date: 2025-03-10
The City of Timmins Public Works has announced the end of a Significant Weather Event advisory as of March 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. This advisory was initially issued according to the Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways (O.Reg 239), which guide the city in maintaining road safety during severe weather conditions.
While specific weather conditions that prompted the advisory were not detailed, such notices typically relate to concerns like heavy snowfall or iced roads that can im
Ontario Implements 25% Surcharge on Electricity Exports to U.S.
Date: 2025-03-10
The Ontario government has implemented a new 25 per cent surcharge on electricity exports to the United States effective immediately. This surcharge is in response to tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Canadian goods. The additional charge applies to electricity supplied to approximately 1.5 million homes and businesses in Michigan, Minnesota, and New York, with an expected financial impact of up to $400,000 per day .
According to official statements, the surcharge is currently set at $10 per mega
Doug Ford Congratulates Mark Carney on Liberal Leadership Election
Date: 2025-03-10
Premier Doug Ford has released a statement congratulating Mark Carney on his recent election as the leader of the Liberal Party of Canada. Carney is set to assume the role of prime minister. In his statement, Ford highlighted the necessity of collaboration among various levels of government to tackle economic challenges, which have been impacted by external tariffs.
Ford underlined that such cooperation is vital for addressing the economic issues currently facing the administration. The develo
Health Canada Issues Warning on Fire Hazard Candles Available on Etsy.ca
Date: 2025-03-10
Health Canada has issued a warning concerning relight candles sold on Etsy.ca. The candles have been identified as a fire hazard and are in violation of the Candles Regulations under the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act. As a result, Health Canada has removed these products from sale on the online platform and contacted the foreign third-party seller.
Consumers are advised by Health Canada to immediately stop using the relight candles. This advisory is part of Health Canada's commitment to e
Residents Invited to Provide Input on Hazardous Waste Disposal
Date: 2025-03-11
The city is seeking feedback from residents regarding the handling of household hazardous waste. A survey has been made available from March 10 to March 21, 2025, intended to gather information on improving the hazardous waste disposal event, enhancing communication efforts, and determining the preferred time for such events.
Participation in the survey is encouraged for residents wishing to contribute their views on the effective management of hazardous waste. The city's initiative highlights
Canada Participates in Commonwealth Day Under 'Together We Thrive' Theme
Date: 2025-03-11
March 10, 2025 - Global Affairs Canada issued a statement in Ottawa marking the observation of Commonwealth Day. The announcement included messages from the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development. This year's theme is 'Together We Thrive.'
The statement outlined Canada's participation with the Commonwealth's 56 member countries, emphasizing shared commitments to democratic values and good governance. The them
Recall of Yardworks Snowblowers Expanded for Shock Risk
Date: 2025-03-11
The Government of Canada has issued an expanded recall for Yardworks 15-amp, 22-inch electric corded snowblowers due to a risk of electric shock. The recall involves models with the number 060-0583. Health Canada advises consumers to stop using these snowblowers immediately and return them to any Canadian Tire Store for a full refund.
Smooth Rock Falls Regular Council Meeting on March 17th
Date: 2025-03-11
The Regular Council Meeting for the Town of Smooth Rock Falls is scheduled for March 17th, 2025, at the Town Hall starting at 6:30 pm. Residents have the option to participate in the meeting virtually via a Zoom link provided by the Town council.
Details and instructions for virtual participation have been outlined by the council, ensuring residents can attend remotely. The agendas for the meeting will be published online through the Town of Smooth Rock Falls portal, providing further informat
Electric Power Selling Price Index Shows January Trends
Date: 2025-03-12
Statistics Canada has released the Electric Power Selling Price Index for January 2025, providing key insights into the fluctuations in electricity prices for commercial and industrial consumers across the country. This monthly index is compiled by Statistics Canada and tracks variations in electricity pricing, offering data broken down by regions and provinces in addition to the national overview.
For the Northeast of Ontario, these statistics may hold particular value as they reflect price t
Flood Preparedness in Northeast Ontario: Causes and Awareness
Date: 2025-03-12
Flooding is a common concern in Ontario, with various natural phenomena contributing to its occurrence. According to the Corporation of the Town of Smooth Rock Falls, floods can result from rapidly melting snow, ice jams obstructing waterways, elevated lake levels, or storm surges. Additionally, heavy rainfalls and thunderstorms are significant contributors to potential flood situations.
Flood incidents are not limited to specific seasons; they can happen at any time throughout the year. The T
Snowmobile Ski Kits Recalled Over Safety Concerns in Ontario
Date: 2025-03-12
The Government of Canada has issued a recall for Kimpex Rush and Kimpex Arrow II ski kits due to a safety hazard. The recall affects ski kits that contain 3/8-16 imperial bolts, which may break and cause the skis to detach from snowmobiles. Such a failure can lead to a loss of vehicle control and potentially result in injuries.
This recall is significant for snowmobile users in the Northeast of Ontario and other regions where these products are in use. Owners of these ski kits are advised to c
Northeast Ontario Prepares for Weather Shift Amid Snow Removal Efforts
Date: 2025-03-12
In the Northeast of Ontario, including Timmins, residents are advised to prepare for changing weather conditions expected by the end of the week. According to the Weather Network, warm temperatures are anticipated, which may lead to a mix of slush, snow, and potholes on the roads.
Local Public Works departments are actively engaged in snow removal operations following a recent late winter storm. Residents are reminded that pushing snow from private driveways onto public roads violates the Onta
Severe Cold Alert Issued for March 11 in Northeast Ontario
Date: 2025-03-12
An extreme cold weather alert is in effect for Tuesday, March 11, 2025, in the Northeast Ontario area, including Timmins. Temperatures are forecast to fall to -28 degrees Celsius, taking wind chill into account.
Authorities have indicated that exposure to these frigid conditions can lead to severe health issues such as frostbite and hypothermia. They advise the public to take necessary precautions by avoiding direct wind exposure, dressing in warm layers, and ensuring all exposed skin is cover
Canada Invests $1.1 Million to Support Northeast Ontario Workforce Needs
Date: 2025-03-12
The Government of Canada has announced a funding initiative totaling $1,125,000 through FedNor to support workforce development in Northeastern Ontario. Specifically, this funding will support the North Bay and District Chamber of Commerce in launching the North Bay and Area Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) program.
The announcement was delivered by Anthony Rota, a Member of Parliament for Nipissing—Timiskaming, representing the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services a
Timmins Public Works Revises Snow Removal Plans for March 8, 2025
Date: 2025-03-13
The City of Timmins Public Works has announced a disruption in the planned snow removal schedule for the week of March 08, 2025, due to operational issues. Areas that were initially scheduled for snow clearing will experience delays and will be rescheduled for a later date. Public Works is addressing these operational concerns, which have impacted their ability to adhere to the original schedule. Residents are encouraged to check for further updates from the City of Timmins Public Works regardin
Smooth Rock Falls Announces Organizational Restructuring Due to Financial Strain
Date: 2025-03-13
The Town of Smooth Rock Falls has announced an organizational restructuring due to financial constraints. These changes come in response to increased costs related to insurance, services from Ontario Provincial Police, and the Cochrane District Social Services Administration Board, as well as a rise in material costs.
As part of this restructuring, the position of Protective Services Coordinator has been eliminated. Responsibilities from this role will be reallocated among other positions, and
Black River-Matheson Announces Advisory Committee Meetings
Date: 2025-03-13
The Township of Black River-Matheson has announced upcoming meetings for the Accessibility Advisory Committee and the Senior Advisory Committee. These sessions are scheduled to take place at the Vern Miller Arena's Upstairs Hall. The Accessibility Advisory Committee will meet on Monday, March 17, 2025, at 4:30 PM, followed by the Senior Advisory Committee on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at the same time. Details about the agendas for these meetings are available on the municipality's portal.
Statistics Canada Reports on Journeypersons’ Earnings and Mobility
Date: 2025-03-13
Income and Mobility Analysis for Journeypersons in 2022
According to recent data from Statistics Canada, newly certified journeypersons in 2022 earned a median income of $56,580 one year post-certification, reflecting a 1.0% increase from the previous year.
The report highlights variations across different trades. For instance, welders have seen their incomes surpass pre-pandemic levels, an indication of specific demand in the labor market. In contrast, ironworkers and early childhood educat
Timmins to Hold Community Consultations on Rural Waste Collection
Date: 2025-03-13
The City of Timmins is organizing community consultations to evaluate rural curbside waste collection options as part of a broader review of waste management services. This initiative is according to a statement released by the City. The review aims to address current waste management practices and gather resident feedback.
A significant focus of the consultations will be on residents utilizing the German, Evelyn, and Thornloe Township landfill sites. This group represents about 320 residents.
Black River-Matheson Seeks Development Proposals for Surplus Property
Date: 2025-03-14
The Township of Black River-Matheson is currently accepting proposals for development of its surplus property located at 1175 Highway 11 South. Interested parties are required to submit their full proposals by April 15, 2025, as stated by the township.
This municipal property has been declared surplus, and the township seeks proposals that outline potential development plans. It is important that applications are submitted in full to be considered.
Canada Introduces Reciprocal Tariffs on U.S. Imports Amid Trade Dispute
Date: 2025-03-14
The Government of Canada has outlined its response to the newly imposed U.S. tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum products. According to the Department of Finance Canada, the U.S. has implemented a 25% tariff, which the Canadian government views as unjustified.
Surge in Measles Cases Noted in Ontario
Date: 2025-03-14
Recent data from the Ontario public health authorities report a significant increase in measles cases within the province. Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health, revealed that 173 new cases have been identified, bringing the total number to 350 since the beginning of 2024. The current situation has resulted in 31 hospitalizations.
According to Dr. Moore, this marks the highest incidence of measles in Ontario in over ten years. He highlighted the essential role of vaccination and pu
Cochrane to Host Special Council Meeting on March 17
Date: 2025-03-14
A Special Council meeting is set for Monday, March 17, 2025, taking place at 5:00 p.m. The location for the meeting is the Council Chambers at 171 Fourth Avenue, Cochrane, Ontario.
The meeting will be accessible both in-person and online for attendees. It is organized pursuant to section 9 of the procedural by-law 1526-2022.
Timmins Schedules Snow Removal for March 15-21, 2025
Date: 2025-03-14
The Public Works Department has announced that both night-time and daytime snow removal operations will take place in Timmins from March 15 to March 21, 2025. Nightly operations are scheduled from March 16 to March 20, beginning at 9:00 pm and concluding at 7:00 am, and will focus on roads such as Harold, Bruce Avenue, Main, HWY 101 East/Algonquin, and Riverside in areas including South Porcupine and the Connecting Link. Daytime operations are planned from March 17 to March 21, from 7:30 am to 4
Timmins Police Execute 69 Warrants During Initiative
Date: 2025-03-15
From January 28 to February 23, 2025, the Timmins Police Service conducted a warrant initiative focused on executing outstanding arrest warrants. This operation, integrated into regular patrol duties, involved coordination with the Crown Attorney's office to first prioritize cases deemed high priority before addressing other warrants. The initiative led to the successful execution of 69 arrest warrants, according to Timmins Police Service officials. Acting Inspector Tim Chalmers noted the role o
Suspect Apprehended in Timmins for Robbery
Date: 2025-03-15
The Timmins Police Service reported the arrest of a suspect involved in a robbery that took place on March 14, 2025. The robbery occurred in the 500 block of Algonquin Boulevard East, and the suspect was apprehended shortly thereafter in a nearby parking area. The victim described being threatened with a knife, leading to the arrest by the police.
The suspect, identified as Jerome Fireman, aged 18 and a resident of Timmins, is now facing multiple charges. These include three counts of robbery