Issuu

> Lincoln eyeing 1.9% budget increase with operations coming in at 0.9% /Pg 7 > Photographer Mitch Brown helps GBF Pg 6 > Beamsville manufacturer gets $2 million grant Pg 14 > Readers chime in on super school issues Pg 19 Thursday, January 28, 2021 Vol. 9 Issue 41

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Cost overrun causing mixed DSBN signals

Did they or didn’t they? Trustees offer opposing views on school board’s level of contamination knowledge

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow Who knew what when? That is a question which summarizes a whole lot of calls, email, and texts over the last several weeks since NewsNow broke the story on District School Board of Niagara’s $12.4 million cost overrun on the planned new super school, which will amalgamate the now-closed South Lincoln High School, Grimsby Secondary School and Beamsville District Secondary School with an opening still scheduled for Fall 2022.

In a Jan. 21 story, DSBN’s chief communications officer, Kim Sweeney, said significant soil contamination did not arise until Fall 2019, while site preparation started in May 2019. “During the process of removing the fill -through constant inspection, testing and reporting -- it was discovered that additional quantities of fill over and above what was originally estimated would have to be removed,” Sweeney said. Last week’s story also referred to an August 2019 email from Lincoln/Grimsby Trustee Elizabeth Klassen to Vineland resident Bob Thompson

in which Klassen noted, “The soil remediation is on schedule and I am not aware of any delays. Findings were only some construction items such as wood in the soil that we must remove.” However, in an email Monday from West Lincoln/Wainfleet Trustee Doug Newton to Caistor Centre resident Nicole Scime, those details were refuted. In response to Scime’s question, “Can the DSBN prove they did not know the land was contaminated before they purchased?” Newton wrote, “The See COST, Page 2

Signed, sealed, delivered:

Region commits 21%

of local spend for WLMH’s rebuild

First of many...

The first baby of 2021 has arrived at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital - a most welcome sight for parents Connie and Mark Sandercock of Grimsby as well as everyone at WLMH. Colton, weighed in at 7 lbs. 9 oz, is a new sibling for older brother Caleb. Colton was born Jan. 5 at 10:07 a.m.

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow It is official. Niagara Region has approved support for West Lincoln Memorial Hospital’s rebuild to the tune of 21 per cent of the $60 million local share of costs. That translates into 12.6 million reasons to smile for Niagara West’s residents and elected officials alike. There had been lengthy debate both at the Dec. 21 full meeting at council where the financial commitment was given as part of the regional budget process and at the Dec. 14 budget review session. Support for the $12.6 million funding level escalated from 16-9 at the

review session to 20-6 last week. While much of the debate was focused on how much financial support WLMH should receive, a great deal of time went to a new funding matrix devised with the help of a consultant. Staff recommended 18 per cent - $10.8 million - of the local share be the threshold for hospital support and, when the matrix process was included, that would have been further reduced to 84 per cent of that - or $9.07 million. West Niagara representatives presented a strong case for why See WLMH, Page 3

Page 2 • News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021

COST

From Page 1 DSBN and the Ministry of Education have always known that the land was contaminated based on reports received from environmental consultants and the Ministry of the Environment.” While speculation regarding the state of the land on Hwy. 8 near Durham Road has been rampant for decades there are incidents where concerns have been registered on the public record going back many years. Minutes from a Lincoln council meeting April 3, 1978 reveals: “Mrs Martin Hildreth, acting as a spokesman for a large delegation of ratepayers from the Durham Rd. area appeared before the council and presented a lengthy list of objections to the filling of the former Grimsby tile property with a waste oxide material from Dofasco in Hamilton. The delegations were concerned about the possibility of the soiling of the area, costly cleanup of roads, water pollution and the loss of income from non saleable fruit caused from the trucking of the material from Hamilton. Mrs Hildreth presented about 75 letters of objections from other property owners in the area. • Moved by Ald A. Savage and Ald. J. Thomas that this Town of Lincoln after studying the pros and cons of filling of the brickyard site (Durham Rd) with flue dust, do not consent, to the approval of the use of said material and that Enzo Trucking be so notified.” Answering why the project went so far over

budget, – initially set at $5 million for site preparation and $42.5 million for building construction – spending $17.4 million on remediation and preparation to date, Newton noted, “The environmental cleanup and scope of the remediation work was tendered based on the reports of the Ministry of the Environment and environmental consultants. During the remediation process it was identified by the consultants that additional quantities, over what was originally estimated by the consultants, would have to be removed.” Despite that financial setback, Newton told Scime the new school is still expected to open as planned in Fall 2022. He also refuted Scime’s claim “that this new school will cost well over the original budgeted costs to “repair” the three original high schools?” Newton told her, “That this is not the case. In a note to Newton from NewsNow it was noted, from a DSBN Sept. 28, 2016 newsletter: “Additionally all three schools are projected to required significant renewal work. In the period between 2016-2020 BDSS will need over $26 million in renewal, Grimsby over $19 million and South Lincoln over $7 million worth of upgrades and repairs,” Newton was informed, noting the total would be $52 million. “The super school, again my (NewsNow’s publisher) understanding, is: • $42.5 million for construction • Acquisition, remediation and site preparation, $17 million • An Internal report states another “$3.3 million in remaining work is currently outstanding” - this

Sam Oosterhoff, MPP Niagara West

905-563-1755 | sam.oosterhoffco@pc.ola.org Unit M1, 4961 King Street East, Beamsville, ON L0R 1B0

has been refuted somehow.” “Without the additional $3.3 million, the costs are now estimated to be $59.5 million for the super school vs fully updating all three west-end schools for $52 million. At this point, with South Lincoln already closed, BDSS and GSS could be renovated for $45 million for further savings.” Newton has not provided further comment. To Scime, earlier in the day, Newton refused to provide details on the cost to purchase the land, noting “All land transactions are matter of public record at the land registry office.” As well, when Scime pointed out minutes for DSBN’s finance committee from May 2018 to current do not appear to be posted, Newton pointed out. “The minutes of all public Finance meetings have always been included in the Board Agenda package and posted online.” Grimsby Coun. Dave Sharpe said Monday he wants an investigation into the super school problems and added remedies to keep existing high schools in their communities should be considered. “I will make a Notice of Motion asking the Province to investigate the $12 million cost overruns on the environmental remediation work at the proposed new high school property on King Street near the traffic circle,” said Sharpe. “And further, asking the Province and DSBN to investigate alternatives that could keep the high schools within the established communities by renovating the existing schools in Grimsby and Beamsville to attract more students and by offering more course selection.

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WLMH

News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021 • Page 3

From Page 1 the reduced rate of support would not be fair or equitable based on 2007 support levels Niagara Region gave St. Catharines’ new hospital. “Consultants make recommendations. We make decisions,” said Mayor Jim Diodati. “Health care is the number one concern for everyone. The (WLMH) staff are amazing, but that facility is old. We have one of the oldest populations, and we need to focus on what people want,” Diodati added, noting Niagara Region “spent over $50 million on a bridge in St. Catharines that most people will never use.” As he did at the budget review meeting, Grimsby Mayor Jeff Jordan noted the 21 per cent ask was the same that St. Catharines hospital got when $21 million was committed

towards what was a $100 million local share in 2007 before that local share escalated to $116.9 million in 2009. “It would have been better if the matrix was developed long before WLMH came on stream, not the last six weeks,” said Jordan. “Yes, it’s going to cost a lot of money. Fairness and equity is the region’s domain. I feel we should do what we did in the budget committee and approve the $12.6 million and 21 per cent.” West Lincoln Reg. Coun. Albert Witteveen noted staff had already confirmed the point regional council members were trying make regarding the matrix itself. “Staff did say the matrix was subjective,” noted Witteveen. That subjectivity, combined with structural flaws in the formula itself made the

matrix a non-starter for Lincoln Reg. Coun. Rob Foster. “The matrix failed in this case,” said Foster, noting it did not take into account, among other things, the lengthy regional support with Deer Park Villa for which “not a penny” has changed hands. At the budget review session, West Lincoln Mayor Dave Bylsma has asked if the matrix was ever run with the assets and programs of the St. Catharines hospital. He noted, if that was to be held up as the maximum standard, it should support the 100 per cent outlined in the matrix. The answer to that question was no, it had not been run. While West Niagara representatives provided plenty of justification, some on regional council simply weren’t having any of it. “The Region should

not be involved, said St. Catharines Reg. Coun. Brian Heit, noting health care is a provincial responsibility. He added, if regional council continues to ante up for hospitals it will face “6-8 per cent budget increases a year.” St. Catharines Reg. Coun. Kelly Edgar was right there with Heit. “I loved the matrix. It made sense to me. You want to throw it away for an arbitrary number?” Fort Erie Reg. Coun. Tom Insinna said he was not interested in setting the matrix aside as he did not want to waste the estimated $15,000-plus it cost “for a number pulled out of a hat”. Niagara Falls Reg. Coun. Peter Nicholson said the matrix could prove beneficial but required adjustments. “We all read the reports...ultimately we are

the decision makers. That’s what we did at the budget review committee,” said Nicholson. Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton said the matrix can be part of future processes, when it is fine tuned. “It is an excellent idea, but I think we can agree we learn and improve by the processes we engage in. It may not be not possible to agree with all elements of it,” said Easton. “I am very proud to have been defending this.” The 20 representatives voting in favour of the $12.6 million funding commitment were: Grimsby Mayor JeffJordan, Lincoln Reg. Coun. Rob Foster, Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton, West Lincoln Mayor Dave Bylsma, West Lincoln Reg. Coun. Albert Witteveen, Grimsby Reg. Coun. Wayne Fertich, Pelham Mayor Marv Junkin, Pelham Reg. Coun. Diana Hu-

son, Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati, Welland Mayor Frank Campion, Welland Reg. Coun. Pat Chiocchio, Welland Reg. Coun. Leanna Vilella, Niagara Falls Reg. Coun. Peter Nicholson, Niagara Falls Reg. Coun. Barbara Greenwood, Thorold Reg. Coun. Tim Whalen, Niagara-on-the-Lake Mayor Betty Disero, Wainfleet Mayor Kevin Gibson, Thorold Mayor Terry Ugilini and St. Catharines Reg. Coun. George Darte and St. Catharines Reg. Coun. Tim Rigby. Those six opposed, with three conflicts of interest declared, were: Port Colborne Reg. Coun. Barb Butters, St. Catharines Reg. Coun. Brian Heit, St. Catharines Reg. Coun. Laura Ip, St. Catharines Reg. Coun. Kelly Edgar, Niagara-on-the-Lake Reg. Coun. Gary Zalepa and Fort Erie Reg. Coun. Tom Insinna.

It’s time to give the condo Status Certificate the status it deserves! When purchasing a resale condominium, a common clause that your realtor may include in your offer to purchase is a condition relating to the condo’s status certificate. The clause can be standard wording, conditioning that the offer is subject to the purchaser’s solicitor reviewing the status certificate. Too often, I see condo buyers who entrust the condo’s status certificate review to their solicitor - not taking the time to read it themselves before they sign off on that condition. I understand, there is a sense of comfort in knowing that your lawyer is going to read the document on your behalf, but there could be information in that document that your lawyer may not be aware of that will impact your day-to-day enjoyment of the condo.

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The information contained within the status certificate and the accompanying documents are vital from a purchaser’s perspective in fully understanding both the status of an individual unit, and the overall operation of the condominium corporation. Status certificate content includes many important items, including the following: • Copy of the current declaration, by-laws and rules; • Number of units leased for the fiscal year preceding the status certificate date. Rules define condo living. For example, the status certificate rules section usually contains rules on quantity and/or size of a pet; restrictions on short-term and/or longerterm rentals; restrictions on visitors’ use of the pool, rooftop patio, or other amenities. The number of units leased is also very important to know, prior to waiving the condition, as rental units have an adverse effect on condo property values. This is especially important in smaller complexes, for example, a condo townhome complex with just 20 units - and you discover from the Status Certificate that currently, 8 of those units are rented. For more information, please contact me. I welcome any opportunity to earn your business!

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Page 4 • News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021

Strategic Accomplishments 2020 UPDATE

COUNCIL STRATEGIC PRIORITIES: 2019-2022

Council’s strategic priorities are focused on preserving and protecting what matters most to residents — Grimsby’s distinct natural setting, heritage, culture and character

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

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We build trust with our community through meaningful communication, transparency, leading financial management and responsible service

We welcome, nurture and support business to contribute to the financial sustainability of our Town and create opportunities for residents

We are committed to growth that prioritizes the distinct character, natural setting, culture and heritage that makes Grimsby special and puts our residents first

We are an inclusive community that considers the needs from all generations, backgrounds and abilities

GOALS Encourage Development that Reflects the Aims and Priorities of the Community

Foster a Vibrant Business Environment in Grimsby

Build Trust and Confidence in the Town’s Operations and Services, and Establish a Strong Reputation for the Corporation

Provide Safe and Efficient Transportation Options Throughout Grimsby

Protect, Preserve and Enhance Grimsby’s Distinct Heritage and Culture

Protect and Preserve Grimsby’s Distinct Natural Setting and Become a Municipal Leader in Sustainability

Provide Adequate and Quality Amenities to Serve Grimsby’s Growing Population

News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021 • Page 5

Advancement of Council’s 7 Strategic Priority Themes 1

BUSINESS ATTRACTION, GROWTH & RETENTION

RESPONSIBLE DEVELOPMENT • Development Charge Study Completed • Grimsby Beach Study Launched

• Grant Funding Dedicated to Business Retention and Expansion Initiative

HERITAGE & CULTURE

ACCOUNTABILITY & TRANSPARENCY • Committee of the Whole Introduced • Council Meetings Livestreamed

TRANSPORTATION & ROAD SAFETY • Flashing beacons installed at Christie/Ontario/Maple Diamond • Continued advocacy for all day GO service to Grimsby Station

ENVIRONMENT • First Local Ride Sharing Service Introduced, with Grimsby Representing over 60% of Ridership • 20 New Garbage/Recycle Receptacles Added To Parks

• Brought Forward 6 Designation Reports • Land Use Planning Study to be Conducted for Main Street East Area

Council and Town Staff Initiated All 22 Initiatives Outlined Under the Seven Strategic Priority Themes

COMMUNITY AMENITIES • Grimsby, Lincoln, West Lincoln, Niagara Region and the WLMH Foundation Committed to the Local Contribution of the West Lincoln Memorial Hospital with construction to begin in 2022

*For a comprehensive review of all accomplishments, please visit the Town’s Website

COMMUNITY SUPPORT IN THE MIDST OF COVID-19 FEED HOPE

MASK SUPPLY

PARADE

NOV. 11

41,970 lbs food collected $30,000 in financial support

Secured 186,000 masks for GBF, local businesses and Town staff

Safe and accessible Santa Clause Parade and food drive

Live stream Remembrance Day celebration with 21 bells heard from the Town

SERVICES

PUBLIC RELATIONS

FINANCIAL

RECREATION

Self-service tools for the public with modified, virtual services introduced

Compliance through education

*For a comprehensive review of all COVID-19 community supports, please visit the Town’s website

Tax payer relief on late payments

Modified summer camps ran for 8 weeks at a 91% capacity rate

Page 6 • News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021

Local photographer donates proceeds from firefighter calendar to GBF

By Tristan Marks NewsNow Veteran photographer Mitchell Brown has found a way to give back to the community, while making use of his passion for taking photos of firefighters in action. Teaming up with the Grimsby Firefighters Association, Brown created a calendar from his library of photos from his body of work and has been selling copies of it to raise money for the community. At $20 per calendar, Brown has already raised more than $700, all of which he said he will give to the Grimsby Benevolent Fund (GBF). Brown’s motivation was simple. “During the lockdown I was bored stiff,” he said, adding that he wanted

West Niagara-based photographer Mitchell Brown made use of the vast collection of photos he had taken of Grimsby firefighters in action to create a 2021 Calendar as a way of staying busy during the Covid shut downs. He gave every dollar earned from this project to the Grimsby Benevolent Fund.

to make something to help the community. It was not a hard deci-

sion for Brown to team up with the Grimsby Firefighters. In more

Thank You

than 30 years of photography, he has taken a number of pictures of

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firefighters in action. “My niche is firefighters,” he said. “I’ve been taking photos of them for years and I have thousands of pictures.” The decision to donate the calendar proceeds to GBF was of equal importance to Brown, who wanted to support its mental health programs. “GBF has had a good mental health focus and that’s important to me since I live with mental health,” he said. “I’m still looking for more sales, since the more sales there are, the more GBF can get.” To order one of Brown’s calendars, email him at mitchell@mitchellbrown.ca. He is selling them for $20 each, and will sort out the order details upon being contacted.

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News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021 • Page 7

Lincoln considers 2021 operating budget By Tristan Marks NewsNow The Town of Lincoln unveiled its draft 2021 operating budget, which comes in with a 0.9 per cent rate increase. This budget, when added to the 0 per cent capital budget and the 1 per cent special infrastructure levy gives a total budget levy of 1.9 per cent rate for the municipality. The blended rate, combined with the Regional levy and the education fund comes to 1.75 per cent. This would come to a tax increase of $0.24 per day or $88.33 for the year for an average assessed home value of $399,000. Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton said she was happy how staff worked hard to produce a budget that

fulfilled Council’s edict of keeping the Town’s tax rate under 2 per cent in 2021. “It’s a strong budget, the sort of flexible budget municipalities want in this kind of year,” Mayor Easton said. Di Ianni explained in comments after the meeting that staff had to find that happy medium of keeping the budget within the Council’s limits, while avoiding ‘cutting’ anything from the Town’s services. “Our focus was on how to deliver on what our residents expect, while maintaining a low tax,” he said. Part of this process was finding alternative sources of income apart from taxation. Some of the budget will be made up from long term borrowing over the

next four years moving forward to 2025, although this year the borrowing will be lower than even 2020. Still, the projected rate of borrowing is not expected to pass the Town’s self-imposed limit of 10 per cent of the total budget. Other costs will be drawn from the Town’s existing reserve funds, which Di Ianni said were put aside for “a rainy day”. “And in the pandemic year, we’re in a rainy day,” Di Ianni said. The budget will go to the Committee of the Whole on Feb. 3 for one more consideration. Town Council will officially ratify the operating budgetand thus the entire 2021 budget- at their Feb. 8 meeting.

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Page 8• News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021

We are our own worst enemy

Notice of Intention to Designate TAKE NOTICE THAT the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby intends to designate 8-10 Ontario Street to be of cultural heritage value or interest under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. 8-10 ONTARIO STREET THE REASON for the proposed designation is to recognize the architectural value of the building in context of its contribution to the heritage character of the Town of Grimsby. The building has elements of Italianate architecture, which was typical of Victorian Era homes in Canada. The dwelling at 8-10 Ontario Street has direct associations with James H. Wells. Wells was a member of the Masonic Lodge and was associated with both the Lodge and the commercial advancement of the Town. During the 19th Century Ontario Street supported a large portion of the fruit industry. The character along this corridor contains a collection of multi use residential, commercial, and a few remaining industrial buildings. The dwelling at 8-10 Ontario Street is important in illustrating the industrial development along this significant streetscape. This residence is one of the last of its kind along Ontario Street, and speaks to the volume of housing that was required to support such a successful fruit industry. The dwelling at 8-10 Ontario Street is visually linked to its surroundings by its architecture and aesthetic style, and is historically linked to the surroundings by the associations with James Wells and the industry along Depot Street. Purpose built duplexes were uncommon in the late 1800’s. ANY PERSON may within thirty days of the publication of this notice, send by registered mail or deliver to the Town Clerk of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby his or her objection to the proposed designation, together with a statement of the reasons for the objection and all relevant facts. When a Notice of Objection has been received, the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby will refer the matter to the Conservation Review Board for a hearing and report. FURTHER INFORMATION respecting the proposed designation is available from the municipality by contacting Bianca Verrecchia, Heritage Planner: Email: bverrecchia@grimsby.ca Phone: (905)945-9634 Ext. 2122 THIS NOTICE PUBLISHED on the 28th day of January, 2021. Sarah Kim, Town Clerk Town of Grimsby 160 Livingston Avenue Grimsby, ON, L3M 4G3

Do you remember Pogo Possum, the wonderful philosophical cartoon strip created by Walt Kelly? It ran in daily newspapers from 1943 until about 1975. Over those years, Pogo made many wise comments, or posed questions that got readers thinking. One that I remember is “We have met the enemy and it is us.” That wasn’t original to Pogo. It was a message sent by Oliver Hazard Perry to MajorGeneral William Henry Harris after the Battle of Lake Erie in 1812. It’s a message that’s as meaningful today as it was in 1812 or 1950. Covid-19 has given us the opportunity to look at ourselves and ask “What do we want for our future?” and “How many of Planet Earth’s present problems are caused by us?” and “What can we do about it?” Since we are the only ones here, we have to

A Small Drop of Ink

By Dorothy Turcotte take responsibility for all the bad stuff – polluted oceans, lakes and rivers; melting icecaps; overbuilding on farmland; over-development in cities. If all of that is really what we want, so be it. However, if we don’t, we have to be willing to give up some of the things we have become accustomed to and rely on. For example, onetime use plastic. Then there are fossil fuels. President Biden is making important steps towards a better future environment. One of those steps, the cancelling of the Keystone Pipeline, is making many people very happy. At the same time, it is upsetting most of the province of Alberta because their economy depends on the fossil fuel industries. That’s a

huge issue, but one that all of Canada will have to deal with. Alberta has many other assets that could be developed to provide jobs and trade. I hope they will focus on them instead of whining about Keystone. We’ll all be better off for it. I can remember a time about 40 years ago when Alberta had so much money in the till that they were sponsoring cultural projects right and left. Perhaps they should have devoted some of that cash into developing alternative resources. But then, who thinks into the future? Rachel Carson did, back in the 1950s with her book Silent Spring but no one listened to her. In 2006, Al Gore did it with An Inconvenient Truth; again, not much enthusiasm. Pogo was right. We have seen the enemy, and it is us.

Notice of Intention to Designate

TAKE NOTICE THAT the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby intends to designate 104 Main Street East to be of cultural heritage value or interest under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act:

TAKE NOTICE THAT the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby intends to designate 130 Main Street East to be of cultural heritage value or interest under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act:

104 MAIN STREET EAST

130 MAIN STREET EAST

THE REASON for the proposed designation is to recognize the architectural value of the building in context of its contribution to the heritage character of the Town of Grimsby. The land that 104 Main Street was constructed on was originally part of a much larger piece of land that incorporated Centennial Park. In the late 1970’s an ancient burial ground was discovered in Centennial Park. The discovery allowed the community to gain an understanding of the teachings, beliefs, and activities that had been a part of this land long before the United Empire Loyalists arrived.

THE REASON for the proposed designation is to recognize the architectural value of the building in context of its contribution to the heritage character of the Town of Grimsby. The home at 130 Main Street East is an Italianate architectural style residence. The historic dwelling displays a high degree of craftsmanship and artistic merit.

The home at 104 Main Street East is constructed in the Italianate architectural style. This style traditionally features a projecting frontispiece with rooflines dressed with decorative eaves, both of these architectural features can be seen on 104 Main Street East. The frontispiece features a broken pediment with a lunette window, the roof line follows the gable with cornice returns. The windows throughout the structure feature a curved arch above each of the window openings.

James Balfour is recognized as the architect associated with the design of 130 Main Street East. James was a successful architect from Hamilton, who is credited with building many beautiful structures during the 1800’s.

The dwelling at 104 Main Street East is significant in supporting the character of Main Street. The scale, materials, and setbacks of this historic site contributes to the style of Ontario farm houses that are historically found along the historic Main street corridor. 104 Main Street East is physically linked to this property, as it helps to demonstrate the original lot fabric of Centennial Park. ANY PERSON may within thirty days of the publication of this notice, send by registered mail, or deliver to the Town Clerk of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby his or her objection to the proposed designation, together with a statement of the reasons for the objection and all relevant facts. When a Notice of Objection has been received, the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby will refer the matter to the Conservation Review Board for a hearing and report. FURTHER INFORMATION respecting the proposed designation is available from the municipality by contacting Bianca Verrecchia, Heritage Planner: Email: bverrecchia@grimsby.ca Phone: (905)945-9634 Ext. 2122 THIS NOTICE PUBLISHED on the 28th day of January, 2021.

The home at 130 Main Street East was built circa 1880 by Walter Henry Nelles, and sits along a road named after the Nelles family. The Nelles family is one of the most well-known families in the Town of Grimsby. Walter Henry Nelles was the great nephew of Robert Nelles.

The home at 130 Main Street East was associated with the establishment of the fruit industry in Grimsby. The family home at 130 Main Street East was sold to the Danish Lutheran Church in 1969. The Danish Lutheran church supported many members of the community during its use within the historic dwelling. The dwelling at 130 Main Street East is physically, functionally, visually and historically linked to its surroundings as it contributes to the Council endorsed Cultural Heritage Landscape along the historic Main Street corridor. The scale, mass, form, and set back of the historic dwelling contributes to the cohesive collection of traditional farm house estates that continued to fill the significant streetscape as Main Street developed. This vestige of the past depicts the successful tender fruit farming industry that contributed to the prosperity of the Town of Grimsby. ANY PERSON may within thirty days of the publication of this notice, send by registered mail or deliver to the Town Clerk of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby his or her objection to the proposed designation, together with a statement of the reasons for the objection and all relevant facts. When a Notice of Objection has been received, the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby will refer the matter to the Conservation Review Board for a hearing and report. FURTHER INFORMATION respecting the proposed designation is available from the municipality by contacting Bianca Verrecchia, Heritage Planner: Email: bverrecchia@grimsby.ca Phone: (905)945-9634 Ext. 2122 THIS NOTICE PUBLISHED on the 28th day of January, 2021.

Sarah Kim, Town Clerk Town of Grimsby 160 Livingston Avenue Grimsby, ON, L3M 4G3

Virtual PIC for Smithville master plan Feb. 11 The Township of West Lincoln will host a virtual public information centre (PIC) regarding its Smithville Master Community Plan (MCP) and Subwatershed Studies on Feb. 11 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Additionally, West Lincoln will open an online engagement platform for the MCP, which will be available for residents starting Feb. 4. Residents can reach this platform by visiting: plansmithville.ca. West Lincoln is currently in the process of completing its MCP study to plan for future growth in Smithville.

This study will identify preferred areas for expanding Smithville’s urban boundaries. This first PIC will present the purpose and scope of the study, describe existing and future study area conditions and present the preliminary land use concept options. A subwatershed study is also being undertaken to address environmental and stormwater considerations associated with the Twenty Mile Creek watershed and to support the MCP by identifying areas of concern. The final MCP will in-

clude the locations of roads, distribution and density of land uses, water and wastewater (including stormwater) servicing, environmental protection and sustainable design policies. The plan will identify the preferred approach to steps that will guide future development and address all infrastructure requirements for the selected urban expansion areas. To attend the virtual PIC, register with Ryan Lavender via email at ryan.lavender@aecom.com or by calling his number at 647394-5055.

Calling small business owners

News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021 • Page 9

Notice of Intention to Designate TAKE NOTICE THAT the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby intends to designate 141 Main Street East to be of cultural heritage value or interest under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act: 141 MAIN STREET EAST THE REASON for the proposed designation is to recognize the architectural value of the building in context of its contribution to the heritage character of the Town of Grimsby. The home at 141 Main Street East was built circa 1907 on the property originally owned by J.A. Nelles. The home was owned by Benjamin Cook, a local farmer from Scotland in the early 20th century. The home was then sold to local Grimsby resident Osric G.W. Neal in 1910. Osric and his family lived in the home for nearly 30 years and was sold to his son George Neal in 1930. In 2002, the Devries family purchased the property at 141 Main Street East. This purchase was to expand the Cole’s Florist business. Cole’s Florist’s has been a staple in the community since 1891, at one point becoming the largest floral company between Toronto and Niagara Falls. 141 Main Street East is important in supporting the character of the Main Street East corridor. With the removal of many historic structures, 141 Main Street East is representative of the vernacular architectural style that was historically found along the historic streetscape and is an important component of the Council endorsed Cultural Heritage Landscape. ANY PERSON may within thirty days of the publication of this notice, send by registered mail or deliver to the Town Clerk of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby his or her objection to the proposed designation, together with a statement of the reasons for the objection and all relevant facts. When a Notice of Objection has been received, the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby will refer the matter to the Conservation Review Board for a hearing and report. FURTHER INFORMATION respecting the proposed designation is available from the municipality by contacting Bianca Verrecchia, Heritage Planner: Email: bverrecchia@grimsby.ca Phone: (905)945-9634 Ext. 2122 THIS NOTICE PUBLISHED on the 28th day of January, 2021. Sarah Kim, Town Clerk Town of Grimsby 160 Livingston Avenue Grimsby, ON, L3M 4G3

COVID-19 support could be available to you.

• Grants of up to $20,000 through the Ontario Small Business Support Grant • Up to $1,000 in support for purchasing PPE through Ontario's Main Street Relief Grant • Rebates for property tax and energy costs

Notice of Intention to Designate TAKE NOTICE THAT the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby intends to designate 147 Main Street East to be of cultural heritage value or interest under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act: 147 MAIN STREET EAST THE REASON for the proposed designation is to recognize the architectural value of the building in context of its contribution to the heritage character of the Town of Grimsby. The home at 147 Main Street East was built circa 1907 on the property originally owned by J.A. Nelles. The home was also owned by Jane Pettit. The Pettit family were United Empire Loyalists who were a very prominent family in the Town of Grimsby. In 1918, the house at 147 Main Street East was sold by Jane Pettit to Harriet Anne Mabel Pettit Biggar making Harriet the second Pettit family member to live in the house. The Heritage home was purchased by Brigadier General Vernon “Uncle Bill” Hodson and his wife Jeanne Neel Hodson in 1944. At this time the house underwent extensive renovations by the Shafer Brothers. The Shafer Brothers were highly regarded in the Town of Grimsby and went on to build many custom homes, commercial buildings, and numerous renovation projects throughout the Town of Grimsby. Norman Edward Cole purchased the home in 1971. Norman was the son of Albert Edward Cole, founder of Cole’s Florist. Norman bought the company from his father in the early 20th century. In 1986, “Cole’s Florist” moved into the historic dwelling.

We’re working to ensure small businesses can keep employing people and serving their communities now and when COVID-19 is behind us.

147 Main Street East is important in supporting the character of the Main Street East corridor. With the removal of many historic structures, 147 Main Street East is representative of the vernacular architectural style that was historically found along this historic streetscape and is an important component of the Council endorsed Cultural Heritage Landscape.

Visit ontario.ca/COVIDsupport to apply

FURTHER INFORMATION respecting the proposed designation is available from the municipality by contacting Bianca Verrecchia, Heritage Planner: Email: bverrecchia@grimsby.ca Phone: (905)945-9634 Ext. 2122

ANY PERSON may within thirty days of the publication of this notice, send by registered mail, or deliver to the Town Clerk of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby his or her objection to the proposed designation, together with a statement of the reasons for the objection and all relevant facts. When a Notice of Objection has been received, the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Grimsby will refer the matter to the Conservation Review Board for a hearing and report.

THIS NOTICE PUBLISHED on the 28th day of January, 2021.

Paid for by the Government of Ontario

Sarah Kim, Town Clerk Town of Grimsby 160 Livingston Avenue Grimsby, ON, L3M 4G3

Page 10 • News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021

thank you for being a

GREAT BIG FRIEND

“Because of the GBF and its volunteers, my holidays were happier. Because of the GBF, I don’t feel left out or alone. Thank you!” – Dennis

Huge thanks to a Great Big Friend of the GBF, Harley Valentine! Harley, the vice-president of CastlepointNUMA, was instrumental in donating and renovating 19 Elm to meet the urgent need of space during COVID to carry out the long-standing Christmas Hamper program and provide incubator space for the GBF Wellness Hub.

We are especially thankful for our generous sponsors:

Because of you, Christmas came to our community! Thank you to all who opened their hearts to empower our neighbours in need. The compassion and dedication that is so eagerly expressed by the community means more neighbours can confidently and optimistically look to a brighter future in 2021. GBF is committed to best practices and this shows the real beauty of Grimsby. We are a community where people genuinely care about one another. – Stacy Elia, GBF Chief Executive Officer and Irene Podolak, President

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News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021 • Page 11

Page 12 • News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021

4th Annual

Volunteer Pay Subscription Drive

“What a newspaper needs in its news, in its headlines, and on its editorial page is terseness, humor, descriptive power, satire, originality, good literary style, clever condensation, and accuracy, accuracy, accuracy! Joseph Pulitzer Dear Reader,

I think NewsNow delivers on the above quote from the fellow for whom the Pulitzer Prize is named. Without NewsNow, Niagara West readers have no understanding of the impact of Grimsby’s biodigester project or council shenanigans. There would be very little knowledge of the lengthy and serious issues which have plagued West Lincoln Memorial Hospital in recent years - although the corner seems to be turned of late. More recently, nobody would be aware of the $12 million in cost overruns for a super school which has not even seen its construction start. And this is nothing to say of the countless items of community support out team rolls out every week. These next few months will be make or break. If you can, and choose to do so, please consider supporting NewsNow.

Based on the excellent feedback from previous years’ volunteer pay subscription drive, we are launching Year 4! Is NewsNow’s independent, accurate voice in the community of value to you? Would you like to support NewsNow in its efforts? This is your opportunity.

If yes, we have set up an infrastructure to allow for a Volunteer Pay System

Simply, this means, rain (or snow) or shine, you will always – each and every week – receive your copy of NewsNow. That will NOT change!!!!

Subscriptions: 3 Months - $15 suggested • One Year - $40 suggested

We will back HST out of each payment to make things as simple as possible. You can pay by cheque (bring into the office or mail), credit card (call Catherine or Rose at 289-235-9500) or e-transfer (send to: subscriptions@wn3.ca - make security answer - newsnow ) For more information, please do not hesitate to call, email or drop in. All inquiries are welcome!! Thanks very much for your time and Happy New Year to all,

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Mike Williscraft Publisher

News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021 • Page 13

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

The DeVries family (in a 2019 photo) - Nancy and Harry, centre, with Curtis, left and Dave - are preparing for the future at a new site for their Cole’s Florist operation. When it happens, the transition will be seamless, says Harry.

Cole’s open and ready to serve Yes, the future for Cole’s Florist will be at a new location, but in the short-term, the team is ready to serve the community and its customers. “When people found out we had sold the land, they thought we were closing; not at all,” said Harry DeVries, owner of Cole’s Florist since 1986. “We are open now for curbside service and we will be moving to a new location when we’re ready for that transition.” The business itself is in a transition as Harry’s sons Curtis and

Dave have been brought in to help run the operation. “We are building for the future,” said Harry. Currently, Cole’s is open 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday for pick-up and delivery. Customers are asked to call ahead to place their order or go online. “We’d like to thank our customers for their support through COVID and especially over the years which gives us the opportunity to rebuild and grow,” said Dave.

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West Lincoln Chamber of Commerce

West Lincoln’s small and locally owned businesses are woven into the fabric of our community. You can help your community get through this difficult time by supporting local stores, restaurants and services. Be sure to observe all Niagara Public Health guidelines and stay safe.

Page 14 • News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021

From the Town of Lincoln e: 1 lin 02 ad , 2 De . 15 b Fe

Grant Opportunities Available!

Ophardt gets $2 million grant Ophardt Hygiene Technologies Inc. received a $2 million grant to expand their soap and sanitizer dispenser

manufacturing capacity from the provincial government. With Ontario’s support, Ophardt will ex-

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pand its facilities and move the manufacture of soap and sanitizer dispensers from overseas to its Beamsville location. The company will increase production to 300,000 dispensers and one million dispenser drive modules per year in Ontario. This will help deliver convenient and precise hygiene solutions to high-traffic areas including airports, shopping malls and medical facilities. “Premier Ford said ‘Never again; we’re not going to be caught short.’ So we put together a $50 million fund called the Ontario Together Fund. That is used to help manufacturers pivot to help supply PPE in Ontario that we were desperately missing,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. Ophardt, a global manufacturer of dispensers of soap, sanitizer, paper towels and toilet paper, is investing $7 million in this expansion as well, which includes purchasing molding, automation and bottle making equipment. “Companies IS MY B R SMILElike “YOU Ophardt Hygiene have stepped up to the plate throughout the pandemic, showing the Ontario spirit and creating important sanitizing equipment for use in medical, industrial, and many other settings,” said Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff. Ken Friesen, Ophardt’s general manager, said it was a team effort. “I’d like to thank the Ophardt team for their tireless work throughout this pandemic,” said Friesen.

News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021 • Page 15

HOME IMPROVEMENT Choosing the right kind of lighting for any room

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When choosing lighting for their homes, homeowners must walk a fine line between appearance and functionality. A fixture in the foyer that instantly impresses visitors likely won’t prove as awe-inspiring if it’s installed in the living room. When choosing lighting for a home, some general rules about what works in each room can help homeowners make the most informed decision. Kitchen Kitchens are often the busiest room in a home, so lighting here can be especially important. A kitchen often benefits, both practically and aesthetically, from different types of lighting. For example, pendant lighting above kitchen islands can make meal preparation easier and safer, but such lighting likely won’t work in breakfast nooks and informal dining areas in the kitchen. Recessed lighting works best in such areas. In kitchens with no island, under-cabinet lighting can be used to illuminate countertops and simplify meal preparation. Formal dining room Many people enjoy the look of chandeliers in formal dining rooms, and such fixtures can be installed directly

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Please call to place your Classified Ad

289-235-9500 obituarIES

ARKELL, Jacqueline Elizabeth Jane

It is with heavy hearts, the family of Jackie Arkell (nee Constable) announce the passing of their beloved Mother and Grandmother. She went peacefully on January 15, 2021, in her 91st year at Tabor Manor in St. Catharines. Predeceased by her loving husband, Ron Arkell (2008), and her brother & sister-in-laws Bus (Neddie) Arkell and Bob (Flo) Arkell. Jackie leaves behind her adoring children Elizabeth, Bill (Sharon), Jane (Ed), Tom (Pat) and Mary (Mark). She was the cherished grandmother of Spencer, Sophie & Kent Arkell; Evan & Allison Whitworth; Andrew, Stephen & Adam Arkell; and Billy Akeroyd. (as well as her many precious grand dogs) Jackie and Ron raised their family in Grimsby Ont., where Jackie had moved to with her parents (Bert & Ruby Constable) as a teenager. It was in Grimsby that they met their lifelong friends (affectionately known as ‘The Gang’) and remained their valued support group and entertainment for years. Jackie was a proud graduate of Hamilton General Nursing school in 1952. Her fellow classmates maintained a lifelong bond that was always near and dear to her. Education was important to her and she instilled that value in her children. As busy as life was, Jackie always managed to complete courses in order to upgrade her skills as well as for recreation and general interest. Forever a keen student; Medical secretary, sailing, computers, … well, she loved to learn. Jackie will be remembered as an avid reader and animal lover, bridge player, Conservative Party volunteer & coffee connoisseur. Our mother has left us all with so many memories like Cline Road, Oriole Crescent, the factory/Arkell Foods, road trips to Florida in the station wagon, Puddicombe Farms, Hagar School, the Constable’s home, and Sunday brunch at Gert’s with the whole Arkell clan. May Jackie’s pretty blue eyes shine brightly in a better place. A Life Well Lived! We would like to extend our gratitude to the staff at Tabor Manor. Their ongoing compassion, care and support of our mother was extraordinary. A Celebration of Life will take place later as permitted when it is safe to gather in person. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tabor Manor (www.radiantcare.kindful.com) or to a charity in Jackie’s memory that is important to you. Arrangements entrusted to STONEHOUSEWHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, GRIMSBY, 905945-2755. For online condolences, please visit Jackie’s webpage at www.smithsfh.com.

BAKKER, Adam Lambertus May 14, 1931 - January 19, 2021

SadlySadly, after a battle with a myriad of health issues, Adam finally succumbed at Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital, in Burlington on Tuesday, January 19, 2021 in his 90th year. A long time resident at Albright Centre, in Beamsville, Adam was born and raised in St. Catharines to Lambertus, and Sytje Bakker. Adam is now with his very loving late wife, Caroline, as well as older brother, John. He is survived by his sister, Martha Deeker. Along with his first wife, Ester Douglas, he was the deeply loved father of Carolyn Burgess (Bill), Mark (Carol), John, and James (Fe). He will also be sadly missed by grandchildren Barry (Natalie), Brian (Wendy), Michael (Teresa), Matthew, Jordan, and Chelsea (Eric), as well as great grandsons Brayden, Barron, and Carson. He is also survived by his nephews Colin and John, niece Janet, as well as stepson, Steven (Peggy), and granddaughters Katie, and Heather. A penchant for humour in various forms, he was especially fond of word play, utilizing his extensive vocabulary to hone his craft to an acute perfection, complemented with a gleam in his eye, and a mischievous grin. Adam was a Constable in the Grantham Township police force and retired from General Motors of Canada, St. Catharines, after 30 years of service. Due to Covid, cremation has taken place and there will be no service. A celebration of Adam’s life will be held when gathering restrictions have been relaxed. Online condolences at tallmanfuneralhomes.ca.

help wanted Farm Help. Seasonal full time from March to November 2021. Req’d for orchard and vineyard trimming, planting, thinning, harvesting and preparing fruit for sale. Work is outdoors and physical in nature. No experience or education required, but an asset. Own transportation required. Wage $14.39/ hr. Fax resume to 905643-7271 or email info@ puddicombefarms.com. to J.B. Puddicombe, 1468 Hwy. #8, Winona.

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News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021 • Page 17 318 Canborough St. P.O. Box 400 Smithville, ON L0R 2A0 T: 905-957-3346 F: 905-957-3219 www.westlincoln.ca

PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE # 1 SMITHVILLE MASTER COMMUNITY PLAN – TOWNSHIP OF WEST LINCOLN

The Study The Township of West Lincoln (or the Township) is currently in the process of completing a Master Community Plan Study to plan for future growth in the Community of Smithville (see figure for study area). A subwatershed Study is also being undertaken to address environmental and stormwater considerations associated with the Twenty Mile Creek watershed and support the Master Community Plan Study, including the identification of the preferred area(s) for urban boundary expansion. The Master Community Plan Study was formally introduced to the public at an introductory public information centre (PIC) held on January 30, 2020. Planning Framework The Master Community Plan is being developed under the Planning Act and is integrated with the infrastructure planning in accordance with the requirements of the Municipal Engineers Association’s Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Water, Wastewater and Roads (as amended in 2015) Master Plan Approach #4. This approach is desirable for long term planning where interdependent decisions which impact servicing and land use are being made and the range of servicing alternatives needs to be addressed in an integrated fashion, so as to recommend the best overall solution for the community. Together with the Environmental Assessment Act, the Master Community Plan will include the location of arterial and collector roads, distribution and density of land uses, water and wastewater (including stormwater) servicing, environmental protection and sustainable design policies. The Plan will identify the preferred approach to phasing that will guide future development and address all infrastructure requirements for the selected urban expansion area(s). The Plan will also support amendments to the Regional Municipality of Niagara and Township of West Lincoln Official Plans. How to Participate in Public Information Centre (PIC) # 1 The Township invites anyone with an interest in the Study to have an opportunity to provide input and help inform the decision-making process. All consultations are being held virtually to protect the health and safety of participants and the project team due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There are two ways to participate in PIC #1: 1. Join the PIC #1 virtual information meeting (note: registration is required) There will be a Live Information Meeting held on February 11, 2021 from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. The study team will provide an overview presentation of the project and will answer your questions. Individuals can participate online or by phone. PIC #1 will present the purpose and scope of the Study, describe existing and future study area conditions and present the preliminary land use concept options. Register for the Meeting by contacting: Ryan Lavender Communication and Community Engagement Specialist AECOM Canada Ltd. T. 647.394.5055 ryan.lavender@aecom.com 2. Join the online virtual engagement platform Join the online virtual engagement platform: Plansmithville.ca. Content will be available starting February 4, 2021. The online platform will summarize study area conditions and the preliminary land use concept options. The online platform will include an opportunity to provide feedback. If you require alternative formats, have comments, require further information or would like to be added to the Study’s mailing list to receive future notifications, please contact: Gerrit Boerema Planner II Township of West Lincoln 318 Canborough Street Smithville ON gboerema@westlincoln.ca

Raymond Tung, BES, MLA, MCIP, RPP Urban Planner AECOM Canada Ltd. 105 Commerce Valley Dr W Markham, ON raymond.tung@aecom.com

With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record of the Study. The Study is being conducted according to the requirements of the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment, which is a planning process approved under Ontario’s Environmental Assessment Act. This notice first issued on January 28, 2021

Page 18 • News Now • Thursday, January 28, 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.

West Lincoln shines

The Township of West Lincoln revealed the winners of its inaugural ‘West Lincoln Shines’ Christmas lights competition in the waning days of 2020. Pictured here is Best Urban Lighting winner, 24 Autumn Circle in Smithville, in all its dazzling glory. Other categories included Best Rural, Best Commercial and Best Not-for-profit. Photo courtesy of Bill Reilly.

Region makes right call It is easy to spend $12.4 million when it is not coming directly out of your budget. But Niagara Region committing that amount to West Lincoln Memorial Hospital last week through its 2021 budget process was the right thing to do. Aside from getting into the health care motherhood issue, simply on the face of comparing apples to apples, the 21 per cent support on the $60 million local share of the $200 million construction costs, matches what was done in St. Catharines in 2007. Regional staff did everything possible to muddy the waters of that reality even using the $21 million regional contribution in St. Catharines against a later local share figure of $116.9 million. The issue was, the $21 million was committed at the same point in time in their process where WLMH is at. At that point, their budget was $100 million locally, making it 21 per cent. And none of this gets into a flawed, quickly devised matrix which left out several major factors. When these factors are considered, approving the $12.4 million was the right call. M.W.

Province needs to step up It may seem odd to quote a Niagara Falls mayor - from a completely separate issue - regarding a Niagara West matter which had nothing to do with the comment’s origin save for one critical area. Last week, Jim Diodati, regarding Niagara Region support for a 21 per cent funding level on the local share of new build spend for West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, said, “Consultants make recommendations. We make decisions.” This is the kind of separation District School Board of Niagara trustees should have used years ago when considering the super school plan which will ultimately lead to the demise of three storied secondary school institutions - not one, not two, but three local schools. It has been said before in this space, many years ago going back to when the Accommodation Review Committee (ARC) process was first announced, and it will undoubtedly appear again in the future - this whole project was a mistake waiting to happen from the get-go. Going back a decade, I had a large group of Grimsby Secondary School teachers giving me details on how the facility was being eroded from the inside out, the end result of which was a dwindling student population. Absolutely none of that matters. It is done. It is now in the past. What does matter is how taxpayer funded institutions conduct themselves. In that regard, I ask you to set aside the issue of site contamination and the ridiculous financial price paid by the DSBN to remediate the land. What the provincial gov-

MIKE WILLISCRAFT ernment needs to do in this instance is act, decisively, to protect taxpayers. Mistakes happen, sure. Options were few for a high school site, so DSBN decided to bite off clearly more than it could chew. Now, it appears there is a discrepancy regarding what school board officials knew and when with trustees telling residents two very different stories. Regardless of even that, the provincial government cannot allow the withholding of information, the “ask for forgiveness, not permission” approach of the DSBN to perpetuate a day longer. One could argue all day whether the super school should have floated in the first place, whether the Hwy. 8 site should have been chosen at all, or if site contamination was too massive a hurdle to clear in the planning process. However, when millions of taxpayers’ dollars were gushing out the door over the span of many months, someone had to approve the work. Someone had to approve payments. Many must have turned their heads and held their collective noses at the stench of the rot this process was oozing. I know the deputy minister of education either has

or plans to place a phone call to DSBN to issue some level of censure or condemnation, but when one looks at the impact this project will have on the community, the government owes it to the Riding to go further. Why? Here’s the nut of it. All governments are tight for cash. If the Ministry had known the site and preparation (about $20 million once finally ready) on its own would cost nearly 50 per cent of the construction budget ($42.5 million), would the green light have been given at all? When they were looking at approving an all-in cost of about $47.5 million from DSBN projections, the cost overrun will equate to nearly 1/3 of original budget...and that is if the rest of the project stays on its original budget. Somewhere along the line, DSBN officials had to knowingly look the other way. They had to purposefully NOT report the escalation of the contamination found. They had to not seek approval for the additional $12.4 million (and more) in remediation costs. On no planet can that be tolerated. For that reason, the whole affair should be halted and immediately reviewed to reassess its need and validity. If DSBN officials will go so far as to deceive the Ministry of Education, how can earlier parts of the process be considered credible. We’re just the lowly taxpayers who want the best for our communities. We get lied to all the time under the banner, “we know what’s best for you.” So when it is the Ministry of Education that is made a rube of, well, if that does not escalate ramifications and penalties, what can?

News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021 • Page 19

Super school cost overrun: “What a Sad day at a sad time: writer colossal waste of money”: reader Dear Editor, I see the DSBN super school site is in the news again. They knew the site had issues. Everyone knew! Anyone over the age of 60, local to the area, would know the history of the property. If issues of the property had not been disclosed, the seller would be on the hook for failing to disclose. I’m certain that they did. What stupidity. What a colossal waste of money. What happened to Buyer Beware? Among the most dangerous words in the English language, “I’m with the government, we’re here to help you”. Anytime you hear that, you know they are going to spend YOUR money! Most of the time a LOT of money. The way we are going, everyone will have their hand out. If it’s handed out this easy, there must be something there for me! The government need only to create the environment in

LETTERS which we can work and live our lives, not to be their minions or revenue source. They forget they are our public servants, they are NOT our public bosses! If those who pass our laws were equally as impacted as the public who pay them, we’d have a lot less government. When the taxpayer suffers, government and bureaucrats should suffer alongside them. Are they suffering during COVID? Nope, highly unlikely. Their pay continues, unlike those in retail, restaurant and other personal service industries. Their lives have been turned upside down. Try and get a doctor’s in-office appointment, highly unlikely. Dentists and others in private practice are doing all they can to keep things moving. I could go on. Keep writing! Fred Vandervelde West Lincoln

Dear Editor, I get what MPP Sam Oosterhoff has said about the horse being out of the barn as far as reversing the DSBN’s super school plan. That said, the current U.S. political drama does draw parallels. One side says let it be in the name of unity. The other says a brief but tumultuous short-term must take place to right the ship and ensure a solid future. The latter is what I think needs

to take place here. There needs to be a reckoning of these types of administrative practices when tax dollars and major processes are so flawed it costs taxpayers countless millions and, in this case, a genuine part of their communities core. It is a sad day at a sad time, but some good could come from it. The Province needs to do what’s right and stop it. Stephen Owen, Grimsby

Even Province kept in dark Dear Editor, You know the old movie where the guy sticks his head out of the window and shouts, “I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it any more”? That’s how I feel. I just don’t get how this kind of thing can happen in this day and age. I get there were limited options for locations for the new high school but anyone with

any level of knowledge of the community would have known there were issues with that site. If that is where they chose, fine, but the school board’s research and planning should have nailed down every environmental matter, the Province should have been advised and a decision made. This new high school is a debacle on too many levels. Alice Erb, Grimsby

Find your Why...

DSBN misses an opportunity Dear Editor, It is hard to believe the stories coming out of DSBN these days about the new high school site. It was also hard to believe anything they said back when they first started selling the idea of how a new high school - at the cost of three local high schools - would be a good thing for anyone other than board managers who want to cut ad-

ministrative costs. I get some of the carrots they waved in our faces could have appeared beneficial at the time, but if the high schools had been properly maintained and been renovated to prepare for the future they could have been great for all involved. What a missed opportunity. Dave German Beamsville

The Hat Trick tradition continues Dear Editor, Nice to see that Hat Trick Hockey has made it back during these covid times. This year our entries are up to six - three from Hearst and three from Beamsville. All in family fun. The Rollers from Beamsville and from Hearst the Grattons

and me. Prizes are secondary but a couple of years ago my six-year-old grandson won it all. Hoping that we have a good start to the season that we have and ending without disruption to the pool. Thank you for this tradition. Alan Jansson

Inspiring students to love, learn, and lead together in God's world! Sign up now for a February 1st virtual site visit at www.cairnchristianschool.ca/whycairn

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Page 20 • News Now • Thursday, January 28, 2021

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