NewsNow E-Edition July 30 2026

BUY CANADIAN

Proudly serving Grimsby, Lincoln, West Lincoln & Winona

Deluge douses drainage systems

By Mike Williscraft NewsNow

There was no controlling Mother Nature last Tuesday when a torrential rainfall caused many areas of roadway and neighbourhood flooding, but municipal officials say the reaction

and follow up efforts of staff helped mitigate more damage and problems.

“What we saw on July 21 was unprecedented in the amount of rainfall Lincoln saw. Within roughly an hour and a half, Lincoln saw over 100-plus mm of

precipitation, which is considered over a 100-year storm,” said Paul DiIanni, Lincoln’s director of economic development and communications.

“The Town’s infrastructure performed well considering the severity of the

but no system is designed to withstand that much rain in such a short period of time. When we say it performed well considering the amount of rain, what this means is that when weather conditions reach the 100-year storm

level, widespread flooding conditions can be expected. When this occurs, the infrastructure and the community is designed to have overflow along routes, such as roadways, to flow away from homes towards larger drainage outlets, like creeks.”

In Grimsby, Environment Canada showed Grimsby Mountain recorded nearly 109 mm of rain that day.

“Most reported impacts occurred in the eastern portion of Grimsby, where the heaviest rainfall was experienced. Several areas, including Terrace Drive, Main Street East, Muscat Drive, Bartlett Avenue, Tomahawk Drive, Centennial Park, and Arrowhead Park, experienced significant localized flooding,” said Thomas Hodgson Grimsby manager of operations and compliance.

“The significant volume of rainfall over a short period of time, combined with debris carried by runoff, created challenging conditions in these and other areas of the community. In some locations, stormwater systems were temporarily overwhelmed by the combination of intense rainfall and debris, resulting in localized flooding. At the See FLOOD, Page 3

FLOOD

From Page 1 height of the storm, rapidly rising water levels, fast-moving flows, and ongoing heavy rainfall created conditions where it was not always safe for crews to access affected areas immediately.”

There was no way for existing infrastructure to keep up with waterflows, but as issues arose, staff reacted immediately.

“Staff from Public Works, Parks, Facilities, and the Grimsby Fire Department were actively responding to changing conditions across the community. Crews monitored conditions, responded to calls for service, cleared catch basins and drainage infrastructure where it was safe to do so, removed debris, inspected roads, implemented traffic control where required, and addressed immediate safety concerns,” said Hodgson.

“Staff remained in the field throughout the event and have continued cleanup and inspection efforts in the days following the storm to restore normal operations, remove debris, assess infrastructure, and identify any repairs that may be required.”

Still, public works staff are continuing to assess the impacts of the storm on municipal infrastructure, including stormwater management facilities, drainage infrastructure, parks, and roads affected by the flash flooding.

Assessments are ongoing to determine the full extent of any damage and identify any required repairs. As part of these efforts, Park Road between Bell Avenue and Ridge Road remains temporarily closed while staff complete inspections and undertake the necessary work to ensure the roadway can be safely reopened.

“I want to recognize and

thank the Town of Grimsby staff for their hard work, quick response, and dedication in helping protect our residents, roads, and infrastructure,” said Grimsby Mayor Jeff Jordan.

In Lincoln, Beamsville felt the biggest wrath of that storm.

“Both Vineland and Jordan did see flooding as well, but not as much as Beamsville,” said Di Ianni, who added the Town has contacted Niagara Region to ensure they are as prepared as possible in the future, but noted, “With climate change, we are seeing more storms like this.”

Dave Graham, Lincoln’s director of planning confirmed the QEW Ontario Street Beamsville ramp was closed due to flooding in that area.

The Town does work yearround to prevent flooding. This work includes routinely inspecting catch basins and sewer systems to ensure there are no obstructions, with additional maintenance in advance of significant weather where possible.

West Lincoln had some issues, but they did not get the same rainfall levels and did not have to contend with Niagara

Escarpment run-off, either.

“We were quite fortunate here in West Lincoln during that storm event. The majority of the rainfall happened in the Northwest corner of the Township (Fulton hamlet). Luckily, the heaviest part of the storm only tracked over that area, so we didn’t receive much rainfall throughout the rest of the Township,” said Tray Benish, West Lincoln’s manager of operations.

“We had three roads in the Fulton area that flooded due to the amount of rain accumulation over such a short period of time. Two of them were Township roads, one was Regional. Both flooding areas had driveway culverts that weren’t draining properly, causing the water to surge over the road. Our staff were able to get the culverts opened up that day, and we will be replacing both of them with new culverts in the next couple of weeks.”

Juice has retired after 50 years

I would like to thank all my customers and friends for all their support over the years and for making my Retirement Party such a memorable event. It meant so much to me and my family to see you all there.

I would also like to thank my dedicated staff, Reg Kruse and Dan Hannah for their professionalism over the years. Always going above and beyond for our clients.

After 50 years of serving the community my customers were like friends and family. (This was the best part of my job.)

I am happy to announce Tintern Auto has been sold to Tim Buitenwerf owner of Mark’s Automotive located at 3245 Victoria Avenue, Vineland. A new building is being built there for Tintern Auto where Dan and Reg will be staying on to continue to serve your automotive needs.

Just call the same phone number 905-563-7961 for great service!

Sincerely,

• Acne

• Allergic rhinitis • Aphthous Ulcers (canker sores) • Candidal stomatitis (oral thrush) • Conjunctivitis (bacterial, allergic and viral)

• Dermatitis (atopic, eczema, allergic and contact) • Diaper dermatitis

Recreation and social opportunities for older adults in West Lincoln just got a boost.

The Township has received a $16,000 Ontario Seniors Community Grant.

The funding will support the introduction of new programs and equipment at the West Lincoln Community Centre, helping seniors stay active, connected and engaged.

As part of the project, the Township will purchase 13 seated bicycles to launch a new twiceweekly Sit and Cycle program designed specifically for older adults. The grant will also fund additional

social programming that encourages connection and helps reduce isolation.

“The opportunity to purchase this new equipment will enable older adults to exercise while in a seated position, which increases accessibility to fitness and fun. Older adults of all fitness levels and capabilities can work out together during guided Sit and Cycle programs,” says Cynthia Summers, director, community and protective services.

“This funding allows West Lincoln to introduce new experiences that support both physical well-

ness and social connection.”

The Ontario Seniors Community Grant, funded by the Province of Ontario, supports community-based projects that promote healthy aging and help older adults live independently, stay safe, build social connections and remain active in their communities. Since 2018, the grant has supported more than 2,100 projects in communities across Ontario.

More information about the new senior programs will be available in the coming months through the Township website: westlincoln.ca

GARDEN CENTRE & LANDSCAPE SERVICES

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• Tick bites, post-exposure prophylaxis to prevent Lyme disease

• Dysmenorrhea • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) • Hemorrhoids • Herpes labialis (cold sores) • Impetigo • Insect bites and urticaria (hives)

• Musculoskeletal sprains and strains • Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy • Pinworms and threadworms • Urinary tract infections (uncomplicated) • Vulvovaginal candidiasis (yeast infection) & more. Minor ailments are described as health conditions that can be managed with minimal treatment and/or self-care strategies.

Inaugural Golden Hour huge success raising $65K to support conservation

The inaugural Golden Hour - hosted by Niagara Peninsula Conservation Foundation (NPCF) - proved a major success.

The event - in support of the NPCF’s efforts to restore and sustain the Niagara Peninsula watershed’s natural spaces - generated more than $65,000 last Friday.

Hosted at Ball’s Falls Conservation Area, the programming generated the funds via a combination of event ticket sales, sponsorships, a silent auction, raffle, and on-site donations throughout the eve

ning.

“The strong support from our sponsors, community partners and attendees all contributed to the event’s success,” said said Jacob Pozzobon, NPCA communication assistant.

“The event was a resounding success! We surpassed expectations. While we are still tallying some numbers up, we are happy to report that we have raised over $65,000 in support of the NPCF’s efforts.”

4 BR, 3 bath home on large property (100’x178’) with manicured grounds, picket fence, spectacular rose gardens, numerous cherry trees, large barn with loft & 2 PC bath. Fabulous summer kitchen with double French doors opening at poolside. Separate (50’x100’)

Zoi, I want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank you for all your work and support in selling our home. You were marvelous people to work with! You were easy to deal with and very professional. Thank you sooooo much!! ~Ross What our Clients are Saying... What our Clients are Saying... Saying...

The Royal Canadian Legion Centennial Branch 612

5545 Reg. Rd. #81

Beamsville, ON, L3J 1N7

Phone: 905-563-4612

Email: rclbr612@cogeco.net

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 612 in Beamsville wish to extend a heartfelt Thank-You to all the volunteers who worked diligently to ensure the Royal Canadian Legion’s 100th Anniversary Celebration at our Legion was a successful event.

Without the hard work, time, effort and dedication that the close to 30 volunteers put forward, we would not have been able to celebrate this milestone anniversary!

We also wish to recognize the many who contributed to the day’s event:

Monetary Sponsorships were received from: Veterans Affairs Canada through the Commemorative Partnership Program and from The Town of LIncoln.

In-kind donation Sponsorships were provided by: Beamsville Bakery, Hildreth Farms, Beamsville Sobeys and Highland Meats.

Support was generously given from our local MP Dean Allison and Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff.

Local organizations attended to provide information and share the Legion message. These supporters were: McNally House Hospice, Community Care Niagara, Rose Cottage Visiting Volunteers and Village of Hope.

Entertainment was provided by Branch 163 Pipes and Drums, Lincoln Concert Band and DJ Perry. It was obvious by the smiles on the faces, that the day’s entertainment was enjoyed by every spectator. We wish to also thank 88.5 The Lake for attending the event and spreading the word to the community and their listeners.

Once again...Thanks to All from the Royal Canadian Legion 100th Anniversary Celebration Planning Committee at Branch 612

Grimsby Transportation Master Plan withdrawn

A proposed Grimsby Transportation Master Plan (TMP) has been withdrawn.

In a notice issued July 24, project manager Brandon Quigley said a revised TMP would be issued, but no timeline was given.

“The Town of Grimsby wishes to ad-

vise the public, Indigenous Nations, and interested stakeholders that the 30-day public review period for the Transportation Master Plan (TMP), originally issued on July 10, 2026, has been withdrawn,” said Quigley in a release.

“During the re-

view process, the Town identified the need for additional updates and refinements to the TMP to reflect new considerations. As a result, the current version of the TMP will be revised prior to completion of the review process.”

A custom-built 4,100 sqft home on a 5-acre plot in Niagara Bench. It features a spacious sunken family room with a cozy fireplace, a gourmet kitchen with a breakfast area and a generous family-sized island, and top-tier appliances. There are 3+1 bedrooms, including a double-sized primary bedroom with a full 5-piece ensuite bathroom and walk-in

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Low maintenance landscape features

While a simple deck or patio might once have been the norm, outdoor entertaining spaces have now evolved into multipurpose spaces fea-

turing full kitchens, living rooms equipped with televisions, and areas to gather around a fireplace or built-in firepit.

While hardscaping garners considerable attention when planning an outdoor entertaining space, landscaping should not be overlooked. Many homeowners want to enjoy their outdoor entertaining spaces without having to spend too much time tending to the surrounding grounds, which can make these low-main-

tenance landscape features the perfect fit.

• Native plants: Native plants are low maintenance because they are naturally adapted to the local climate.

That means homeowners won’t have to expend extra effort and energy watering plants or amending the soil. Non-native species may provide some bold colors, but that comes at the cost of additional maintenance.

• Perennials: Homeowners looking to accent their outdoor en-

tertaining areas with flowers can choose perennials over annuals. Perennials live for three or more years, and some species can even live for a decade or more.

• Tolerant plants: Plants that can tolerate the local climate generally fall under the native category. But it’s especially important that homeowners who don’t want to expend much effort on landscape maintenance look for plants that can tolerate drought.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Incorporating nature into outdoor space

The outdoor living boom is a testament to the allure of nature, and homeowners can incorporate the beauty of the great outdoors when designing outdoor living spaces:

• Consider the sightlines when laying out new spaces. When determining where to position an outdoor kitchen, an outdoor living room and additional features of an exterior living space, consider existing landscape features.

• Utilize nature to create privacy. Fencing is many homeowners’ first thought when seeking to create privacy in an outdoor living space. While fencing is undeniably effective as a privacy screen, it may not ac-

commodate homeowners who desire an outdoor living space that reminds residents and guests of the beauty of nature.

Consider privacy trees when designing an outdoor living space. The right choice of tree depends on local climate and additional variables unique to a property, so work with a landscaping professional to identify the best options for your space. Trees can even be planted in front of existing or newly installed fencing to create a more naturallooking perimeter.

• Prioritize yard space. It’s tempting to go big on hardscaping when designing an outdoor living space. However, the cost of hardscap-

ing is among the expensive components of a deck or patio renovation project. Eliminating yard space also can make it hard to establish a nature-first vibe.

OBITUARIES

VanStaalduinen, Hendrika

Peaceful with her loving family at her side Henderika Van Staalduinen (nee Gerritsen) went to be with her Lord and Saviour in the early morning of July 22, 2026 in her 93rd year. Predeceased by her loving husband Johan (John) in 2014.

Loving mother of Hilda (Jim Annable), Marion (Herman Dyk), Sandra (John DeVisser), Mark John+, David (Diane Leclerc Medeiros).

Loving Oma of Jennifer, Kaleena, Timothy (Justine), Calvin+, Michael (Sharise), Jesse+, Julie (Daniel), McKinzie, Jeffrey (Samantha), James (Melissa), Jordan (Adam), Emma.

Loving Great Oma of Lucas, Steven, Tyler, Dominic, Rosalie, Adriana, Gregory, Parker, Rymiena, Wesley, Addison, Ellis, Benjamin, Noa!!

She deeply loved all her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren and always wanted to know how they all were doing and loved hearing about them and seeing pictures. She will be sadly missed.

Loved sister and sister-in-law of Jerry & Alice Gerritsen, George+& Grace Gerritsen, Johan Gerritsen, Gerda+ & Joe+ Boers, John+& Lena Louter, Alida & Jerry Slagter.

She was also Tante Ria to many Nieces and Nephews.

The family received visitors at Providence Christian Reformed Church, 4845 King Street, Beamsville from 6pm-8pm on Monday July 27, 2026.

Memorial Service was held at Providence Christian Reformed Church on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 at 11:30 am.

Private family interment preceded the service. If desired memorial donations can be made to McNally House.

Online condolences at tallmanfuneralhomes.ca.

christopoulos, rosa

OBITUARIES

In loving memory of Rosa Christopoulos It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Rosa Christopoulos, a beloved mother, grandmother, wife, sister, friend, and inspiration to all who knew her. After a courageous and determined battle with pancreatic cancer, she passed away peacefully on July 25th.

Rosa was, above all else, devoted to her four children, who were the pride and joy of her life. She taught her children the values of perseverance, kindness, hard work, and resilience through both her words and her example. Even throughout her illness, she approached each day with strength and courage.

Beyond her strength, will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, quick wit, and ability to make people feel welcome and cared for. She created a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support, leaving a legacy that will continue through her children and all whose lives she touched. Greece held a special place in her heart. It was where she was married and where she spent countless cherished summers with family and friends, especially on her beloved island of Zakynthos, a place that brought her great joy and many treasured memories.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband of 57 years George, her four children, Elena, Constantine (Lindsay), Alex and Katharine (Nelson), her grandchildren Natasha, Olivia, Chloe, George, Dean and Lucas, her brother Erich (Hedy) and their children James, Kristian, Caroline and Elizabeth, her sister-in-law Elfrida and her children Monica, Richard and Jason, brother-in-law Lucky (Christina) and their children Constantine and Eleni and other family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

Visitation to took place at Merritt Funeral Home, 287 station street, Smithville on Tuesday, July 28, with Vigil prayers taking place afterwards. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at Merritt Funeral Home, on Wednesday, July 29 at 12:00 p.m.

If desired memorial donations to McNally House Hospice can be made by contacting the funeral home (905)957-7031.

HARPER, Jennifer Lynn Skrydstrup (nee Miller)

Passed away peacefully, as she wished in Grimsby, at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital on Monday, July 27, 2026. Born January 10, 1998 at Oshawa General Hospital. Left to mourn are her Mother Diane and Step-Father Roger Bain and Brother and Sister-in-Law David and Lindsy Miller. Predeceased in heaven by her Father Robert Miller, her Husband Robert Harper, Grandparents LeRoy and Grace Skrydstrup, John and Evelyn Miller, Douglas and Ada Bain and numerous Aunts and Uncles. Survived by Aunts and Uncles Sharon (late Calvin) Glasser; Brian (Monika) Skrydstrup, Walter (Marg) Miller, John (Betty) Miller, Ivy (Dave) Smart, Dennis Bain, Cheryl Bain, Lawrence (Trisha) Bain, Joanne (Ken) Hale, loving cousins Shawn, Carol Ann, Adam (Amanda), Sarah S, David (Jen), Sarah I, Christopher (Rachel), Michael (Katrina), Alexandria (Jesse), Laura (Ulas), Victor, Andrew and Allyson. Missed by numerous other cousins, as well as friends Joyce and Keith, Katie and Chris, Debbie, Sandy, Leanne and Louise, to just mention a few of the 120 contacts on her phone. Jennifer went to various schools in St. Catharines and Ross MacDonald School for the Blind in Brantford. Her most favorite thing was talking on the phone, then music - whether listening to the oldies, playing the keyboard, dancing or singing karaoke watching DVDs of her old favorites and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Of course, anything blue or purple with sparkle and bling! Our world will not be the same but we know she is a better place where she can see again and sing her big heart out with all the angels gone before her. Visitation at StonehouseWhitcomb Funeral Home, 11 Mountain Street (905-945-2755), Grimsby on Friday, July 31, 2026 from 3:00 to 5:00 and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Visitation 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. prior to funeral on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Christ Our Saviour Lutheran Church, 448 Main Street West, Grimsby. Burial to follow at Grimsby Mountain Cemetery with reception at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Christ Our Saviour Lutheran Church or West Lincoln Memorial Hospital Foundation.

Fly with the angels Jen, until we meet again. www.smithsfh.com

OBITUARIES

young, Linda Marie

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Linda Marie Young (née Cossitt) at Marotta Family Hospital on July 21, 2026, at the age of 76. Born on July 13, 1950, in Hamilton, and residing in Grimsby for all her life, Linda lived a life defined by kindness, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family. She was the beloved wife of Harry Young, with whom she shared 57 wonderful years of marriage. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, hard work, and cherished memories, creating a family that was always at the centre of everything they did. Linda is predeceased by her parents, James and Florence Cossitt. She will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Harry Young, her daughters Shelley Young (Rick) and Patricia Young (Jean LeBlanc), her grandchildren Katelynn Croft, Breanna LeBlanc, Kiara LeBlanc, and Aidan LeBlanc, her siblings Walter Cossitt and Kathy McQueen, and all of her extended family and friends who were blessed to know her. Nothing brought Linda greater joy than watching her family grow. She treasured every visit, celebration, and moment spent together. Her greatest accomplishment was the family she and Harry created, and her love will continue to live on through each of them. Linda found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved swimming, spending time up in the North, and enjoying the peace and beauty that came with being surrounded by nature. She also enjoyed spending time on her computer playing Pogo, a pastime that brought her entertainment and reflected her playful spirit. Linda will be remembered for her independence, quiet strength, kind heart, humour, and unwavering love for those closest to her. She led by example, teaching the importance of putting family first. Though she will be deeply missed, the love she gave so freely and the memories she created will continue to live on through the family and friends she loved so dearly. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. The family received friends and loved ones at STONEHOUSE-WHITCOMB FUNERAL HOME, 11 Mountain Street, GRIMSBY (905-945-2755) on Friday, July 24, 2026 from 4-7 p.m. Funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Helen’s Roman Catholic Church, 4106 Mountain Street, Beamsville on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at 12 noon. Cremation followed with burial at Queen’s Lawn Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Canadian Cancer Society in support of cancer research.

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CELEBRATE RECOVERY

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“Celebrate Recovery (CR)” 12 step Christian Recovery for Healing, Help and Hope. All Welcome! Wed. at 7 pm. Forestview Church, 132 Lake St, Grimsby. For info. or help, CR@forestviewcommunitychurch.ca 905-945-9529

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private certiFieD psw - To provide personal care for seniors in the comfort of their home. References available. Call 289-7839593/289-783-9683.

CLEANUP/REMOVAL

Deck restaining/oiling. Power washing. Free Quotes. Call Chris. Licensed & insured. 289.407.2325

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on behalf of Robert L. Martin application will be made to the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario for an Act to revive Martin Farms Limited.

The application may be considered by the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs. Any person who has an interest in the application and who wishes to make submissions, for or against the application, to the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs should notify, in writing, the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, Legislative Building, Queen’s Park, Toronto, Ontario, M7A lA2.

Dated at St. Catharines, this 9th day of July, 2026.

(person, etc. making application or signing on behalf of applicant).

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licenseD & insureD Raking • Pruning • Trimming • Mulch • Weeding • Edging • Fertilizing • Seeding. Reliable, affordable service. Serving Grimsby & Beamsville. Call or text Chris: 289.407.2325

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t&g lanDscaping Lawn Maintenance, Sod and Lawn Work, Top Seeding Aerating & Fertilizing, Fences and Decks, Snowplowing, Fire wood for sale. Leaky Basement. Frank tirimacco 905-651-4410 tgland@hotmail.com

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ron’s tree & shrub service Removal, pruning, stump grinding, shrub care. Call Ron 905-563-4593

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is looking for a driver (contractor) to deliver papers to carriers’ homes and business drops in Grimsby once a week. Must be available, typically, from 8 am-2 pm every Wednesday and have a valid driver’s licence. Some knowledge of Grimsby streets would be an asset.

Contact Catherine Williscraft by email at catherine@wn3.ca or call or text Catherine at 289-442-0352.

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Official Plans need to keep teeth

As promised, a few words on Grimsby’s Official Planwhich was approved July 13 - are offered here.

First off, it is always odd to see a bunch of hangwringing about small details of such a wide-spread document.

A one and a two....

Lo Lye, 11, tries stand-up paddle boarding for the first time in Jordan Harbour - if he can get on.... The harbour and Charles Daley Park were busy places on the weekend. Loree - Photo

Flooding brought crazy scenes

There were a lot of crazy scenes in a very short amount of time last week when that flash storm hit Niagara West. We had water seeping into the north end of our building and the power knocked out in the middle of press deadline - always fun.

We all lost work we had on the go at the time, too, which set us back about an hour. Outside, well, it was a pretty bizarre scene when one could consider heading over to the lake or just casting a fishing line on King Street.

As noted at Lincoln council on Monday night, 110mm ( or roughly 14 per cent of the normal annual rainfall fell in a one hour span.. That’s bananas. We better watch out or Trump will tariff us for putting too much water into Lake Ontario... or is that Lake America...matter of time there, I guess. M.W.

This is not to say anything in print should not be given due attention but, especially these days when the planning landscape can change considerablly with one press release from the provincial government, OPs are a rudder to steer a municipal ship in a general direction.

In that context, the new plan does an excellent job. It was a disservice to the community as a whole to hear Coun. NIck DiFlavio posturing and pining for the days of old when he was on council the first time - and planning chair at one point - when 14 storeys was approved in 2009.

The reason his comments this month were completely irrelevent is the GO station was not on the radar in 2009.

It has been noted over and over, in countless meetings, that the territory inside the 800m radius of the GO at Casablanca and South Service Road is pretty much carte blanche when it comes to height and density.

That area, dubbed Major Transit Station Areas (PMTSAs) are defined areas within up to 800 metres from station, or roughly a 10 minute walk, is basically sacrificed in the name of creating as high a density

community as close to the transit hub as possible.

You cannot have one without the other.

That has been crystal clear from the start.

Given the groundbreaking for the GO was the week before the opposition to max development in the area is even more out of place.

Yes, it is going to be big.

Yes, It will dominate that corner of town.

Yes, everyone in town knew it was coming.

So, what’s the issue?

For the other hot spot, downtown, the Town has a bit more control. They were on top of things to get the final plan to include a four-storey maximum in what has been established as the historic downtown - Main Street east of Christie/Mountain. West of that intersection the maximum height goes up to six - just as it is in the “Health Centre” of Main East by West Lincoln Memorial Hospital.

Now, Grimsby invested about three full years working through preparation of this Official Plan. While that

may seen like a long time, one has to consider that there was a stretch of about two weeks where three different, major changes to provincially designated planning principles were changed.

In speaking with several lower tier municipal contacts and staff at Niagara Region’s planning department, not a single person was sure which way was up. Knowing what the type says in a release explaining a new density or height guideline and how the new rule would be interpretted if or when it showed up on an Ontario Land Tribunal docket are two very different things.

Those changes were leading to developers who had asked for an eight- or 12-storey approval getting handed 10- and 15-storey wins at hearings. it made no sense to planners but it made lots of cents for developers.

And that is the key. The greased track of development in the name of creating more housing has seemed like a good idea because the issue was acute. From what I see, the massive push to build as many units as possible with little forethought for planning will catch up to us one day - and not in the too distant future, either.

That is why the planning worked through in the new Grimsby Official Plan is sound. It is only hoped that provincial guidelines leave it with some teeth to be able to steer the local planning process.

Unplugged

Ludovic Agassiz - on vacation from Switzerland - tries his hand fishing the waters of Lake Ontario from the shore near Jordan Harbour on Saturday afternoon.

Loree - Photo