Grey Bruce News | April 2025
- Chris Herbert
- 5 days ago
- 12 min read
Hand picked and summarized articles on and about Grey and Bruce counties from various sources including but not limited to local media. To learn why we post and publish content about Grey and Bruce Counties, read this please. - Chris Herbert, Mi6 Founder and Managing Partner.
Previous Updates: Apr 2
Apr 9 Update
Want to sponsor these updates? Contact us.
Regional Job Market Outperforms Provincial Average
Grey Bruce’s unemployment rate dropped to 4.6% in March, outperforming Ontario’s 6.7% average. This marks the lowest regional rate since last summer and reflects a net gain of 1,700 jobs in the area. Sectors showing growth include health care, social assistance, and construction.
Actionable Insight: Entrepreneurs and local businesses should assess hiring opportunities in rebounding sectors and leverage the region’s workforce stability to scale operations. | Read more
Youth Wellness Hubs to Boost Mental Health Access in Grey Bruce
A regional effort is underway to launch Youth Wellness Hubs in Grey Bruce, aimed at improving mental health and social services access for those aged 12 to 25. Spearheaded by Keystone Child, Youth & Family Services and funded by the province, the initiative will consolidate services into a single, youth-friendly location.
Actionable Insight: Businesses and community leaders can partner with wellness hubs to support youth engagement and workforce readiness programs. | Read more
Horticultural Group Digs Into Plant Photography for Community Engagement
At its April meeting, the Kincardine Horticultural Society hosted a workshop on plant photography led by local expert Candace MacDonnell. Members learned techniques to enhance visual storytelling through images, with a focus on using smartphone cameras. The session aimed to improve documentation of gardens and boost social media presence.
Actionable Insight: Small businesses and nonprofits can leverage visual content training to enhance digital outreach and audience engagement. | Read more
Want to sponsor these updates? Contact us.
Youth Theatre Brings Bold Creativity to Alice in Wonderland JR.
The Roxy Young Company's latest production, Disney’s Alice in Wonderland JR., features 29 young actors aged 7–18 in a whimsical, high-energy show directed and choreographed by Carrie Cathrae-Keeling. With vibrant sets, blacklight effects, and a cast of mostly first-time performers, the production doubles as both a theatrical debut and a community-building exercise.
Actionable Insight: Local businesses can boost visibility and goodwill by sponsoring youth arts programs that foster creativity, teamwork, and community engagement. | Read more
$1M Federal Grant Powers Youth Leadership Through Mentorship
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Grey Bruce & West Simcoe has secured over $1 million in federal funding to launch “Youth for Change,” a program offering paid training and leadership development for youth aged 12–30. The initiative supports three volunteer streams—community-based, school-based, and youth-led civic projects—aimed at fostering engagement, mental health literacy, and inclusive leadership.
Actionable Insight: Nonprofits and local businesses can model scalable youth engagement by blending training with service to build future-ready leaders. | Read more
Meaford Council Preserves Patio Season, Commits to Safety Upgrades
Meaford Council unanimously rejected a proposal to pause the downtown restaurant patio program for 2025, opting instead to address accessibility, safety, and compliance concerns while allowing the program to continue. With patio season weeks away, the move safeguards restaurant revenues and jobs while directing staff to enhance regulations and infrastructure for 2026.
Actionable Insight: Entrepreneurs should proactively align seasonal operations with evolving municipal standards to secure long-term viability and community support. | Read more
Want to sponsor these updates? Contact us.
MPP Paul Vickers Appointed Parliamentary Assistant for Agriculture and Agribusiness
Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Paul Vickers has been named Parliamentary Assistant to Ontario’s Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. The appointment positions Vickers, a lifelong dairy farmer, to support provincial strategies focused on food security, farming innovation, and rural economic growth. His hands-on agricultural background is expected to inform policy direction and stakeholder engagement.
Actionable Insight: Agri-entrepreneurs should monitor provincial initiatives for new funding, innovation partnerships, and rural development programs under Vickers' influence. | Read more
Grey Sauble Conservation Office Relocates During Major Renovations
Grey Sauble Conservation Authority is temporarily relocating its administrative office to the Stone Tree Clubhouse in Owen Sound starting April 15, 2025, to allow for extensive renovations at its Inglis Falls site. The project will improve accessibility, energy efficiency, and functionality while preserving the heritage of the original building.
Actionable Insight: Businesses undergoing facility upgrades should communicate early and clearly with stakeholders to maintain service continuity and support public confidence. | Read more
Grey-Bruce Avoids Measles Spread Amid National Concerns
Grey-Bruce has reported no new confirmed cases of measles as of early April, despite a rise in cases nationally. Public Health emphasizes the importance of vaccination, noting that immunization rates remain below optimal levels for community protection. Officials continue monitoring and outreach efforts, particularly among school-aged children and travelers.
Actionable Insight: Businesses and event organizers should review health policies and encourage staff vaccination to minimize potential disruptions and maintain safe operations. | Read more
Want to sponsor these updates? Contact us.
Bruce Power’s Unit 5 Refurbishment Cleared to Proceed in 2026
The IESO has approved Bruce Power’s plan to begin the Unit 5 Major Component Replacement in 2026, marking the fourth of six planned refurbishments. Backed by a $10B/year economic footprint and 22,000 jobs, the project reinforces Ontario’s clean energy capacity, energy independence, and medical isotope production, while integrating new investment tax credits to lower ratepayer costs.
Actionable Insight: Energy-sector businesses should explore partnership or supply chain roles in nuclear refurbishment to access long-term growth and innovation opportunities. | Read more
Nuclear Innovation Institute Highlights Community and Industry Impact in Annual Report
The Nuclear Innovation Institute’s 2024 Annual Report emphasizes its role in driving regional economic growth, workforce development, and industry innovation. Key achievements include expanding the Clean Energy Frontier program, supporting local skills training, and fostering collaborative R&D initiatives. The report showcases the institute’s dual focus on advancing nuclear technologies and strengthening community partnerships.
Actionable Insight: Entrepreneurs and local leaders should explore collaboration with innovation hubs to access funding, talent pipelines, and industry-aligned research. | Read more
Drug Crisis Tackled Head-On in Bruce County Town Halls
At a recent Port Elgin town hall, police, health, and social service experts outlined the urgent realities of drug use and trafficking in Bruce County. Saugeen Shores police and Grey Bruce Public Health emphasized harm reduction, mental health support, and community reporting. Initiatives like naloxone distribution and resilience-building were highlighted as key strategies in preventing overdoses and supporting recovery.
Actionable Insight: Community leaders and businesses can strengthen local resilience by promoting harm reduction awareness and supporting mental health and housing initiatives. | Read more
Want to sponsor these updates? Contact us.
Loss of Adult Protective Services Sparks Urgent Calls for Action in Grey-Bruce
The sudden end of the Adult Protective Services (APS) program in Grey-Bruce has left 160 vulnerable adults without critical support. With no transition plan in place, emergency services are absorbing the fallout. Local advocate Jennifer Miller and MPP Paul Vickers are pressing for swift action as the province works to identify a new service provider.
Actionable Insight: Nonprofits and care providers should assess capacity to fill service gaps and engage with policymakers to co-create sustainable, community-based solutions. | Read more
Tripsy Launches in Owen Sound, Disrupts Local Transport with Hybrid Ride-Hailing Model
Tripsy, Owen Sound’s first app-based ride-hailing service, combines taxi reliability with ride-share tech. Founder Pradeep Duggirala uses company cars, hired drivers, and “gig” workers to address long-standing cab wait times. The app offers transparent pricing and real-time tracking, with expansion planned across regional Ontario.
Actionable Insight: Entrepreneurs in underserved markets can gain early traction by merging tech with local needs—offering reliability, flexibility, and customer-centric solutions. | Read more
Grey County Applauds OSHaRE’s Expanding Community Impact
Grey County has formally recognized OSHaRE (Owen Sound Hunger and Relief Effort) for its growing role in addressing food insecurity and supporting vulnerable residents. In 2023, the organization served nearly 80,000 meals and expanded outreach with services like mobile meal delivery and a pay-it-forward café, enhancing both dignity and accessibility.
Actionable Insight: Social entrepreneurs and local leaders can replicate OSHaRE’s model by integrating dignity-focused services with scalable community outreach to drive lasting impact. | Read more
Want to sponsor these updates? Contact us.
Meaford Seeks Public Input on Future of Food Truck Licensing
The Municipality of Meaford is inviting residents, business owners, and vendors to share feedback on proposed updates to its food truck licensing bylaw. The consultation aims to balance support for mobile food vendors with the interests of brick-and-mortar restaurants and community events.
Actionable Insight: Entrepreneurs in the food industry should engage in policy consultations to shape fair regulations that foster innovation while protecting local commerce. | Read more
Bruce County Allocates Over $1M in Development Charges to Fuel Growth Projects
Bruce County has amended its 2024–2025 budgets to redirect over $1 million from its Development Charges Reserve toward growth-related capital projects like road upgrades, trail resurfacing, and a paramedic station. The move eases pressure on levy funding while supporting infrastructure expansion aligned with new residential and commercial development.
Actionable Insight: Developers and local businesses should track infrastructure investments funded by development charges to identify emerging growth zones and opportunities. | Read more
Volunteers Boost Local Ecology with 60,000 Rainbow Trout Release
Over 100 volunteers helped release 60,000 rainbow trout into the Sydenham River, supporting conservation efforts led by the Sydenham Sportsmen’s Association. The annual fish stocking initiative enhances biodiversity, boosts sport fishing tourism, and contributes to long-term watershed health in Owen Sound and surrounding areas.
Actionable Insight: Tourism operators and local businesses can align with environmental initiatives to strengthen community ties and attract eco-conscious visitors. | Read more
Want to sponsor these updates? Contact us.
Opioid Survivors Gather in Owen Sound to Mourn and Mobilize
Dozens gathered in Owen Sound for a somber event recognizing the lives lost to the opioid crisis and amplifying calls for systemic change. Organized by the Grey Bruce Community Drug and Alcohol Strategy, the gathering featured testimonies from survivors and advocates urging greater investment in harm reduction, housing, and trauma-informed care.
Actionable Insight: Business and civic leaders should support local harm reduction efforts and mental health initiatives to help stabilize communities and retain workforce potential. | Read more
Owen Sound Reaches New Deal with Outside Workers Union
The City of Owen Sound has finalized a four-year agreement with CUPE Local 1530, representing its outside workers. The deal includes annual wage increases, benefit enhancements, and improved job security provisions, helping to stabilize essential services like roads, parks, and waterworks.
Actionable Insight: Business owners and contractors working with municipalities should monitor labour agreements to anticipate potential shifts in service timelines, costs, or partnership opportunities. | Read more
Apr 2 Update
Want to sponsor these updates? Contact us.
Collaboration Over Competition: A Blueprint for Community-Driven Growth
Jen Shaw Christie emphasizes the power of intentional collaboration over competitive silos in community building. By shifting from scarcity mindsets to abundance thinking, entrepreneurs and community leaders can co-create shared value. She highlights practical strategies like initiating low-stakes partnerships, aligning on shared values early, and building trust before scaling efforts.
Actionable Insight: Business owners should foster collaborative ecosystems by starting small, communicating transparently, and prioritizing aligned relationships for long-term resilience. | Read more
Paisley Group Seeks Members to Strengthen Local Economy
The Paisley Community Working Group is actively recruiting new members to drive economic revitalization through inclusive collaboration. Their goal is to leverage local talent, ideas, and volunteer energy to support business growth and tourism in the village. The initiative underscores the importance of community-led planning in rural economic development.
Actionable Insight: Entrepreneurs in smaller markets should engage with local development groups to influence policy, access support networks, and co-create business-friendly initiatives. | Read more
New Doctor Enhances Rural Health Services in Northern Bruce Peninsula
Dr. Claire Bodkin will join the Peninsula Family Health Team in May, bringing expertise in substance use disorders, gender-affirming care, and mental health. Her addition expands care for unrostered patients and strengthens emergency and hospitalist services at Brightshores-Lion’s Head. With academic roles at McMaster and rural locum experience, Bodkin enhances both clinical reach and research capacity in the region.
Actionable Insight: Rural entrepreneurs should leverage improved healthcare access to attract and retain talent in underserved communities. | Read more
Public-Private Partnership Targets Affordable Housing in Port Elgin
Habitat for Humanity Grey Bruce, the Town of Saugeen Shores, and Wilson Developments have signed an MOU to co-develop 28 townhouse units, offering a mix of affordable and below-market housing. Five homes will be sold through Habitat’s equity-based model, with two allocated to municipal affordable housing. This project aims to become a replicable housing model across Ontario.
Actionable Insight: Developers and municipalities can drive housing affordability through structured partnerships and mission-aligned development models. | Read more
Want to sponsor these updates? Contact us.
Saugeen Shores Tree Sale Goes Digital to Boost Community Greening
The Town of Saugeen Shores is launching online ordering for its annual tree sale starting April 7, offering native species like sugar maple, red oak, and white pine. Aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and beautifying private properties, the initiative supports local biodiversity and climate resilience efforts.
Actionable Insight: Local business owners can align with municipal greening programs to enhance CSR efforts, improve curb appeal, and connect with eco-conscious customers. | Read more
Bruce County Focuses on Sustainable Tourism to Balance Growth and Conservation
At a Huron Bruce Nature meeting, Bruce County’s economic development team highlighted efforts to promote sustainable tourism through the "Explore the Bruce" initiative. With 2.9 million visitors in 2023, the county is working to balance ecological preservation with economic opportunity by spotlighting diverse attractions and collaborating with local businesses for responsible tourism development.
Actionable Insight: Tourism-based entrepreneurs should align offerings with county sustainability goals to tap into promotional support and attract mindful travelers. | Read more
Kincardine Prioritizes Capital Projects with Facility Performance Review
Kincardine Council reviewed a comprehensive assessment of 15 municipal buildings to support capital project planning. Five facilities, including the Tiverton Arena and Victoria Park Gazebo, were rated in poor condition, with $2.35M in immediate repair needs. The review supports asset management compliance and helps prioritize infrastructure investments within long-term financial strategies.
Actionable Insight: Business leaders should monitor municipal infrastructure plans, as upgrades can impact local services, tourism, and investment opportunities. | Read more
Extradition Hearings Begin for UK Men Charged in Sharif Rahman Case
A preliminary extradition hearing is set for April 3 in Scotland for three UK men charged in the 2023 death of Sharif Rahman, an Owen Sound restaurateur. Canadian authorities seek their return to face charges including manslaughter and accessory after the fact. The high-profile case continues to resonate locally, with strong community support for Rahman's family.
Actionable Insight: Community solidarity in the wake of tragedy underscores the importance of local brand trust and ethical leadership in small business resilience. | Read more
Want to sponsor these updates? Contact us.
Bird Flu Confirmed Near Bruce Power, Prompts Public Health Advisory
Lab tests confirmed H5N1 avian influenza in dead waterfowl found near Bruce Power, triggering a regional health advisory. Though human infection risk remains low, residents are urged to avoid contact with wild birds, follow proper hygiene, and protect pets and poultry. Bruce Power's collaboration with wildlife authorities reflects proactive corporate responsibility in public health and environmental monitoring.
Actionable Insight: Businesses near natural areas should integrate environmental health protocols into risk management and community communications strategies. | Read more
Student Innovation Shines at Grey Bruce Regional Science Fair
Over 175 students from across Grey Bruce showcased creative, research-driven projects at the regional science fair in Owen Sound, with hopes of advancing to nationals. Topics ranged from water bottle insulation to genetics and taste perception, demonstrating problem-solving skills and STEM curiosity despite school disruptions.
Actionable Insight: Business leaders can tap into youth innovation by partnering with schools and fairs to foster local talent and explore fresh problem-solving perspectives. | Read more
Ripley’s Edible Gardens Offer Blueprint for Food Security and Community Resilience
Bruce Botanical Food Gardens (BBFG) in Ripley, Ontario, is tackling rural food insecurity through a “living marketplace” model—where visitors harvest produce by donation or in exchange for volunteer time. The not-for-profit also preserves endangered heirloom plant species, hosts educational programs, and supports local food banks. With plans to expand, BBFG seeks private funding to stabilize operations and realize its vision of a community-driven food forest.
Actionable Insight: Entrepreneurs can adopt BBFG’s donation-based and partnership models to build food-secure, community-engaged, and environmentally conscious ventures. | Read more
Tom Thomson Gallery Showcases Student-Led Sustainability Through Art
The Tom Thomson Art Gallery is featuring 20 student artworks from East Ridge Community School as part of the Upcycling TOM initiative. Inspired by Thomson’s Sunset Sky and crafted entirely from recycled materials, the pieces blend environmental awareness with creative expression. The exhibit aims to shift perspectives on waste and promote sustainable thinking through artistic engagement.
Actionable Insight: Businesses can foster brand loyalty and community goodwill by supporting local, sustainability-focused youth initiatives. | Read more
Want to sponsor these updates? Contact us.
Community Hub Springs to Life with Meaford Hall’s Seasonal Programming
Meaford Hall is ushering in spring with a vibrant mix of arts and cultural programming, including concerts, theatre, and community events. The venue aims to serve as a gathering place that supports local artists and draws visitors downtown. Its seasonal lineup highlights the role of arts spaces in driving local tourism, economic activity, and social connection.
Actionable Insight: Entrepreneurs can partner with cultural venues to co-host events or cross-promote products, tapping into engaged, experience-driven audiences. | Read more
Knox Bells of Praise Celebrates 40 Years of Community Harmony
The Knox Bells of Praise handbell choir in Meaford marks its 40th anniversary with a special concert, celebrating decades of musical collaboration and community spirit. Founded in 1985, the group has become a local cultural fixture, performing in churches, care homes, and public events, showcasing how arts initiatives enrich small-town life and intergenerational connection.
Actionable Insight: Business owners can align with long-standing cultural groups to build community goodwill and increase visibility through sponsorship or joint events. | Read more
Port Elgin’s Lakeshore Triathlon Opens Registration, Boosting Local Tourism and Wellness
Online registration is now open for the Lakeshore Triathlon, set for August 31 along Port Elgin’s scenic waterfront. The event offers multiple race categories for all ages and skill levels, aiming to attract athletes and spectators while promoting health, community, and economic activity. Proceeds support local recreation programs, further embedding the triathlon in Saugeen Shores’ community development goals.
Actionable Insight: Local businesses can leverage event tourism by offering race-day promotions or partnerships to engage health-focused consumers. | Read more
Brightshores Foundation Launches New Identity and Vision for Healthcare Philanthropy
The Owen Sound Hospital Foundation has rebranded as the Brightshores Health System Foundation, aligning with the regional health system’s updated identity. The foundation will continue supporting essential hospital equipment and upgrades while expanding its fundraising reach across Grey Bruce. The rebrand reflects a broader vision for collaborative, community-funded healthcare improvements.
Actionable Insight: Businesses can amplify community impact and brand alignment by supporting health-focused foundations that reflect evolving regional identities. | Read more
Want to sponsor these updates? Contact us.
Tariff Relief Offers Short-Term Breather, But Uncertainty Looms for Grey-Bruce Industries
Grey-Bruce businesses, especially in wood manufacturing and agriculture, are feeling marginal relief after the U.S. spared Canada from the harshest new tariffs under Trump’s “Liberation Day” plan. Yet, ongoing uncertainty and sector-specific duties are prompting companies to pivot—investing in U.S.-based assembly, renegotiating supply deals, and exploring alternative markets despite rising costs.
Actionable Insight: Entrepreneurs must embrace collaborative, proactive strategies and diversified trade planning to withstand global trade volatility. | Read more
Comments