Weekly Digest (4/6 - 4/12)
Scheduled Road Closures in Timmins for Manhole Repair on April 7, 2025
Date: 2025-04-08
The City of Timmins Environmental Services Department has scheduled road closures for a manhole repair on April 7, 2025. Affected roads include:
- Brunette Rd. from Algonquin Blvd. E to James Ave.
- All of James Ave from Lakeshore Rd. to Toke St. and Sixth Ave.
- Lakeshore Rd. from John Ave. to James Ave.
Motorists and residents in the area are advised to expect temporary detours and potential delays due to the roadwork, as informed by the
HMCS Ville de Québec Begins Operation HORIZON Mission
Date: 2025-04-08
The HMCS Ville de Québec has departed for the Indo-Pacific region as part of Operation HORIZON. The vessel set sail from His Majesty’s Canadian Dockyard Halifax in Nova Scotia, where the crew bade farewell to family and friends.
Operation HORIZON involves participation in combined exercises to promote maritime security and collaboration with the United Kingdom’s Carrier Strike Group. These exercises are intended to enhance interoperability among allied naval forces.
Lieutenant-General Steve
Timmins Public Library Announces Easter Weekend Closure
Date: 2025-04-08
The Timmins Public Library has announced its closure schedule for the upcoming Easter weekend. Residents should note that the library will be closed on Friday, April 18 for Good Friday, Sunday, April 20 for Easter Sunday, and Monday, April 21 for Easter Monday. Residents are encouraged to plan their library visits around these dates.
Ontario Unveils $11 Billion Economic Relief Plan
Date: 2025-04-08
The Ontario government has outlined a significant financial initiative to support the province's workers and businesses amid ongoing economic challenges. The plan involves an allocation of approximately $11 billion in relief measures. According to the government, these measures aim to assist during a period impacted by economic uncertainties and U.S. tariffs.
Part of the relief includes deferring certain provincially administered taxes for six months starting April 1, 2025. This deferral is pr
CFIA Recalls M&M and Marc Angelo Products Over Wood Contamination
Date: 2025-04-09
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a recall for M&M Food Market brand Brazilian Style Picanha Steaks and Marc Angelo brand Carnitas due to the potential presence of pieces of wood. Consumers are advised to check the packaging of these products against information provided by the CFIA to determine if they are affected by this recall.
The affected products were identified as part of the CFIA's routine food safety testing. The agency recommends that consumers either dispose of
Cochrane Seeks Water and Wastewater Operator
Date: 2025-04-09
The Town of Cochrane, located in Northeastern Ontario, is currently hiring for the position of Water and Wastewater Operator. This position is a part of the Infrastructure Services Department, which manages the town's water and wastewater services.
The responsibilities for the role include operating water and wastewater treatment plants and maintaining both distribution and collection systems according to a rotational schedule. Strong collaboration and communication skills are essential for th
Timmins City Council Develops New 10-Year Culture and Tourism Strategy
Date: 2025-04-09
The Timmins City Council has formulated a new 10-year strategy to enhance the local culture and tourism sectors. This strategic plan expands on objectives initially set forth in the 2014 Culture, Tourism, and Recreation Master Plan.
The plan is structured into a Culture Master Plan and a Tourism Master Plan. According to Karen Bachmann, Director of Cultural Services, the Culture Master Plan, which includes 27 recommendations, is aimed at refining policy, increasing community engagement, and de
Smooth Rock Falls Council Finalizes 2025 Budget and Policies
Date: 2025-04-09
The town council meeting held on April 7th, 2025, focused on several key administrative actions:
- 2025 Budget Approval: The council approved the final presentation of the Operational and Capital Budget for 2025.
- Recycling Policy Update: Current recycling services for non-eligible sources continue through 2025. Starting January 1, 2026, these sources will be responsible for their own recycling costs.
- Industrial Park Project Extension: An ame
Timmins Council Approves Three-Year Plan for Road Repairs
Date: 2025-04-09
The City Council of Timmins has approved a significant financial allocation targeting road improvements over the next three years. The plan, put forth by Scott Tam, Director of Growth and Infrastructure, secures $5 million annually to manage and repair municipal roads impacted by harsh winter conditions.
Scott Tam emphasized the recurring issue with potholes, stating, "Potholes are a big problem," particularly after enduring the freeze and thaw cycles typical in northern regions. This funding
Council Schedules Vacancy Appointment Meeting for April 9
Date: 2025-04-09
A council vacancy appointment meeting will occur on April 9, 2025, from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. This meeting is set to take place in the Council Chambers.
The council has confirmed that the meeting will be recorded and livestreamed, following the standard practice for council meetings.
Northeast Ontario Seeks Municipal Prosecutor
Date: 2025-04-10
The Provincial Offences Office in Northeast Ontario has announced an open position for a Municipal Prosecutor. This role involves prosecuting municipal by-law violations and matters under the Provincial Offences Act (POA) on behalf of the municipality.
Key responsibilities of the Municipal Prosecutor include reviewing evidence, negotiating resolutions, and conducting trials. The position also entails providing legal advice to enforcement officers and municipal staff, as well as representing th
Reorganization in Black River-Matheson: Gilles Giguere Appointed Town Manager
Date: 2025-04-10
The Township of Black River-Matheson has announced a restructuring within its senior management team. Gilles Giguere, previously the Director of Public Services, has been assigned as the new Town Manager. This announcement was made by the township council, highlighting adjustments aimed at enhancing service delivery.
Alongside this appointment, Hongji Lei will continue in his capacity as Municipal Clerk while taking on additional duties as Deputy Town Manager. These management roles have been
Timmins Volunteers Enhance Local Sports and Live Music Scene
Date: 2025-04-10
In Timmins, community volunteers have been instrumental in enhancing local sports inclusion and entertainment. The recent Heart of Gold civic awards acknowledged key contributors who have significantly impacted these areas.
Among the honorees is Julia Romauldi, who is particularly active in advocating for sports inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her involvement spans support for the Special Olympics, collaboration with the Canadian Down Syndrome Societ
Ontario Teams with First Nations for Hydroelectric Projects in Northern Ontario
Date: 2025-04-10
The Ontario government is collaborating with Taykwa Tagamou Nation (TTN) and Moose Cree First Nation (MCFN) to explore the development of new hydroelectric stations in Northern Ontario. The project aims to produce an estimated 430 megawatts (MW) of electricity, which could power approximately 430,000 homes. Proposed sites include the Nine Mile Rapids Generating Station, capable of producing 256 MW, and the Grand Rapids Generating Station, with a potential output of 174 MW.
Smooth Rock Falls Announces 2025 Budget Plans
Date: 2025-04-10
The Town of Smooth Rock Falls has released its 2025 municipal budget, detailing the allocation of funds across essential sectors for the coming year. This budget, approved during the town's regular council meeting, outlines several significant financial plans.
The budget places a priority on infrastructure development, with a particular focus on road repairs and improvements to public facilities. These projects have been highlighted as critical to the town’s commitment to maintaining service l
Ontario Proposes Expansion of 'Strong Mayor' Powers to More Municipalities
Date: 2025-04-10
The Ontario government has proposed an expansion of 'strong mayor' powers to include the heads of council in 169 more municipalities across the province. This expansion is scheduled to take effect on May 1, 2025.
The move is intended to assist in meeting provincial priorities, which include the development of housing, transit, and infrastructure. The initial rollout of such powers began in larger cities, and the current proposal aims to broaden the scope across Ontario, potentially affecting v
IQF Cilantro Recalled for Wood Contamination via CFIA Alert
Date: 2025-04-10
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced a recall of SupHerb Farms brand IQF Cilantro Large due to contamination by wood pieces. This recall is specifically affecting batches distributed in Ontario.
The recall involves Caldic Canada Inc., the company responsible for this brand, following the identification of extraneous material in the product. This situation has been classified under a Class 3 recall, which involves a remote risk of adverse health effects according to the CFIA
Rod Reimer Appointed to Northeast Ontario Council
Date: 2025-04-10
On April 9, 2025, the council of Northeast Ontario conducted a meeting to fill a council vacancy. Mr. Rod Reimer has been appointed to the position and will complete the current term running through 2026.
The decision was finalized during the official council proceedings, effectively addressing the vacancy left within the council structure. Mr. Reimer's appointment ensures that the council panel remains complete for the remainder of the term.
Accessibility Advisory Meeting Announced for Black River-Matheson
Date: 2025-04-10
An Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting is set to take place in Black River-Matheson on Monday, April 14th, 2025. The event will be held at the Vern Miller Arena's Upstairs Hall, beginning at 4:30 PM. Residents are welcome to attend and observe the proceedings.
The agenda for the meeting is publicly accessible via the municipal portal at https://blackriver-matheson.civicweb.net/Portal/. This resource allows interested individuals to review the meeting topics in advance.
This announcement
Ontario Announces Plan to Boost Primary Care Access
Date: 2025-04-10
The Ontario government has initiated a proposal process to create and expand up to 80 new primary care teams, with the aim of connecting an additional 300,000 residents to family doctors and primary care services within the year. This effort forms part of the plan to provide primary care access to all residents of Ontario by 2029.
The initiative includes a call for proposals that is expected to impact districts across the province, including the northeastern areas such as Timmins. It is design
Timmins Allocates Additional $100K for Safety Improvement Grant
Date: 2025-04-11
An additional $100,000 has been allocated by Timmins City Council to the Safety Improvement Grant. This funding is part of the Downtown Community Improvement Plan (CIP), aimed at aiding commercial, industrial, and institutional businesses in bolstering security measures across their properties.
The grant covers up to 75% of costs with a ceiling of $7,500 per recipient. Unique among CIP streams, the Safety Improvement Grant is available beyond the downtown areas designated in the CIP, following
CFIA Recalls JHAÖQIA Rice Crackers Due to Undeclared Peanuts
Date: 2025-04-11
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a recall for JHAÖQIA brand Taiwanese Style Rice Crackers, specifically the Egg Yolk Flavor, due to undeclared peanuts. This recall has been initiated to caution consumers who may have allergies to peanuts, as the allergen was not listed on the product's label.
This product has been distributed across Canada, including areas in Northeastern Ontario. Consuming this product could pose a serious health risk to individuals with peanut allergies.
Canada to Enforce Countermeasures on U.S. Auto Tariffs
Date: 2025-04-11
The Canadian government will put into effect countermeasures against American tariffs targeting the Canadian auto sector. These measures were confirmed by Minister of Finance François-Philippe Champagne, and they are scheduled to commence at 12:01 a.m. on April 9. The government states these counteractions are in response to tariffs from the United States, which Canada deems as unjustified.
These countermeasures reflect ongoing trade disputes between Canada and the United States, highlighting
Decision on 647 Searles Road Consent Application Announced
Date: 2025-04-11
A decision has been made regarding Consent Application No. B2025-02, which was submitted to the Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board. The application concerns the property at 647 Searles Road, detailed legally as South Part Lot 3, Concession 5, Lamarche, situated in the Town of Cochrane. This application process takes place under the legislative framework of Section 53 of the Planning Act of Ontario, R.S.O. 1990, c.P. 13. The property holds the roll number 5639 030 001 17100 0000 for identificat
Job Opening in Northern Ontario for Guest Services Team Leader
Date: 2025-04-11
Job Opening in Northern Ontario for Guest Services Team Leader
A new employment opportunity has opened up in Northern Ontario for the position of Guest Services Team Leader. This role involves leading the guest services team to ensure efficient operations at the facility.
Key responsibilities include welcoming guests, managing admission sales, and providing necessary visitor information. The team leader will also oversee product orders and displays in the gift shop, handle guest communicatio
Planning Board Releases Decision on CGV Developments Application in Cochrane
Date: 2025-04-11
The Cochrane and Suburban Planning Board has issued a decision concerning Consent Application No. B2025-01, submitted by CGV Developments. This application is processed under Section 53 of the Planning Act of Ontario.
The application applies to lands described as Part Lot 19 and Part Lot 20, Concession 2, Glackmeyer, within the Town of Cochrane. Identified by Roll Numbers 5639 010 005 28200 0000 and 5639 010 006 13105 0000, the decision relates to land use and property division requests as out
McIntyre Community Centre Receives Cultural Heritage Designation in Timmins
Date: 2025-04-11
The McIntyre Community Centre in Timmins has been officially designated as a property of cultural heritage value or interest by local authorities. This designation recognizes the centre's historical significance, particularly its connections to several notable NHL players, including the Mahovlich brothers, Bill Barilko, Paul Harrison, Allan Stanley, Dean Prentice, Murray Costello, Les Costello, and Steve Sullivan.
Commonly referred to as 'the Mac,' the centre plays a vital role in community li
Scheduled Snow Removal in Timmins for April 2025
Date: 2025-04-11
The Public Works Department in Timmins has scheduled snow removal operations for the week of April 13 to April 17, 2025. These operations are intended to keep roads clear following recent snowfall.
Night-Time Snow Removal (9:00 pm to 7:00 am):
- April 13: Crews will focus on street widenings along designated routes.
- April 14: Work will proceed in the downtown core, addressing primary streets.
- April 15: Operations will move to residential a
New Executive Coordinator Job Available
Date: 2025-04-11
A new job opportunity has been announced for the role of Executive Coordinator. The position requires providing executive and administrative support to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and the General Manager/Deputy CAO. Responsibilities include creating content and managing the Town's website and social media platforms as stated in the official job announcement.
The Executive Coordinator will handle a range of tasks essential to maintaining effective town operations and communication st
Public Assistance Sought by Timmins Police in Search for Missing Alicia
Date: 2025-04-12
The Timmins Police Service is seeking assistance from the public to locate a missing person named Alicia. They have reported Alicia as missing and are appealing for any information that might help determine her whereabouts.
The police have stated that Alicia was last seen in the local area, and there are significant concerns regarding her safety. Authorities are encouraging anyone with relevant details to provide them to aid in the investigation.
While the search continues, public involvemen
Special Council Meeting Set for April 14 in Cochrane
Date: 2025-04-12
A Special Council meeting is scheduled to take place on Thursday, April 14, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. This meeting, announced in accordance with section 9 of procedural by-law 1526-2022, will be held at the Council Chambers located at 171 Fourth Avenue, Cochrane, Ontario. Participants have the option to attend the meeting in person or join virtually.
These meetings are a regular part of the council's procedural duties, offering council members a platform to discuss community affairs and legislative m
Timmins Easter 2025 Service Schedule Changes Announced
Date: 2025-04-12
Timmins will adjust its municipal service schedules during the Easter holiday weekend from April 18 to April 21, 2025. The adjustments include temporary closures and service modifications.
Service Timmins and the Provincial Offences Office will remain closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday, reopening after the holiday weekend. The Timmins Museum: NEC will not be operational on Good Friday, Sunday, and Monday, but it will open on Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Timmins Transit will sus