Week of Dec 25
Grey-Bruce Municipalities Seek Equitable Police Funding
Grey-Bruce municipalities are advocating for funding parity between communities with municipal police services and those contracting the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP). Mayors emphasize shared financial and social challenges and highlight the need for equitable provincial support to manage rising policing costs.
Actionable Insight: Municipal leaders should advocate for equitable funding by highlighting shared challenges and the necessity for consistent support across different policing models. Engaging in collaborative lobbying efforts can strengthen their position when negotiating with higher levels of government. | Read more.
Joel Loughead Nominated as Green Party Candidate for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound
Grey Highlands Councillor Joel Loughead has been selected as the Green Party candidate for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound in the upcoming Ontario election. Loughead, known for his commitment to protecting local greenspaces and farmland from urban sprawl, emphasizes prioritizing community well-being over profits.
Actionable Insight: Entrepreneurs and business owners in Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound should monitor Loughead's campaign, as his environmental policies may influence regional development regulations and sustainability initiatives. Engaging with his platform could provide opportunities to align business practices with emerging environmental priorities. | Read more.
100 Women Grey Bruce Donate $29,000 to Wiarton Salvation Army
The philanthropic group 100 Women Who Care Grey Bruce has donated $29,000 to the Salvation Army in Wiarton. This contribution will support the Bruce Peninsula Community Food Bank, fund community meal programs, and provide camp opportunities for children.
Actionable Insight: Business owners can enhance community engagement by supporting local charitable organizations, fostering goodwill, and strengthening community ties. Collaborating with groups like 100 Women Who Care Grey Bruce can amplify social impact and contribute to regional development. | Read more.
Bruce Power and Partners Donate $320,000 to Local Initiatives
Bruce Power, in collaboration with its supplier partners, has contributed $320,000 to various local organizations and initiatives. This funding supports food banks, hospital foundations, and community programs across the region, aiming to enhance community well-being during the holiday season.
Actionable Insight: Businesses can foster community goodwill and strengthen local ties by engaging in corporate social responsibility initiatives, especially during the holiday season. Collaborating with partners amplifies impact and demonstrates a unified commitment to community support. | Read more.
Norwood Sawmills Opens New Showroom in Barrie
Norwood Sawmills has inaugurated a new showroom at 35 Reid Drive in Barrie, Ontario, showcasing its range of portable sawmilling technology. Visitors can explore various models, from high-capacity hydraulic sawmills to compact entry-level options.
Actionable Insight: Grey-Bruce Entrepreneurs in the woodworking and forestry sectors can leverage this opportunity to experience Norwood's latest sawmilling technologies firsthand, facilitating informed investment decisions to enhance operational efficiency. | Read more.
Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound Green Candidate Prioritizes Farmland Protection
Joel Loughead, recently nominated as the Green Party candidate for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound, emphasizes safeguarding farmland, greenspaces, and sensitive watersheds. A Grey Highlands councillor, Loughead criticizes past Conservative and Liberal policies for rising living costs and deteriorating social services.
Actionable Insight: Entrepreneurs and business owners in the region should monitor Loughead's campaign, as his environmental priorities could influence future regulations affecting land use and development. Engaging with his platform may offer opportunities to align business strategies with emerging environmental policies. | Read more.
Safe ‘N Sound Grey Bruce 2024 Year In Review: Fighting Homelessness with Compassion
Safe ‘N Sound Grey Bruce addressed homelessness with essential services like drop-in support, transitional housing, and a winter warming center, serving over 13,800 visitors. Programs bridged gaps in access to food, shelter, and hygiene facilities while promoting housing as a right, not a privilege.
Actionable Insight: Community collaboration and ongoing support are vital to combat homelessness. Entrepreneurs and businesses should consider partnerships to sustain these impactful initiatives. | Read more.
Community Foundation Grey Bruce Grants $100,000 to Local Charities
Community Foundation Grey Bruce (CFGB) has concluded its 2024 fiscal year by distributing over $100,000 in grants to local charities, focusing on food security and housing initiatives.
Actionable Insight: Non-profit organizations in Grey and Bruce Counties should explore partnership opportunities with CFGB to secure funding for projects aimed at enhancing community well-being. Engaging with CFGB can provide financial support and resources to effectively address local challenges. | Read more.
Crime Stoppers of Grey Bruce Restructures to Continue Operations
Crime Stoppers of Grey Bruce has successfully restructured its organization, ensuring the continuation of its crime prevention programs in the community. Facing financial challenges, the non-profit implemented strategic changes and received increased community support to maintain its anonymous tip line and public safety initiatives.
Actionable Insight: Non-profit organizations encountering financial difficulties can consider restructuring and actively engaging with the community to secure support, ensuring the sustainability of their essential services. | Read more.
Local Conservation Award Supports Future Environmental Leaders
The Owen Sound Field Naturalists (OSFN) have established the Lorraine Brown Conservation Award to honor the late Lorraine Brown, a dedicated environmentalist and founding member of OSFN. This annual award provides $1,000 to a local student pursuing post-secondary education in environmental studies, aiming to inspire and support the next generation of environmental champions.
Actionable Insight: Businesses can enhance community engagement and promote environmental stewardship by supporting educational initiatives like the Lorraine Brown Conservation Award. Sponsoring or collaborating on such programs can foster a commitment to sustainability and cultivate future leaders in environmental conservation. | Read more.
Meaford Rotary House: Combating Poverty Through Community Services
The Meaford Rotary Club has launched the Meaford Rotary House, a community service hub aimed at alleviating poverty in the area. This initiative includes the Rotary Thrift Shop, offering affordable clothing and linens, and provides a permanent location for the Meaford Food Bank and Outreach.
Actionable Insight: Local businesses and entrepreneurs can support the Meaford Rotary House by contributing to their fundraising efforts, donating goods to the thrift shop, or volunteering services. Such involvement not only aids in poverty alleviation but also strengthens community ties and enhances corporate social responsibility. | Read more.
South Bruce: A Thriving Hub for Families, Businesses, and Outdoor Living
South Bruce offers an ideal balance of community, opportunity, and quality of life, drawing families and entrepreneurs alike. Known for its tight-knit support network, thriving local businesses, and excellent schools, it provides a welcoming environment for raising children. Affordable living, diverse job opportunities, and year-round outdoor activities make it a top choice for relocation.
Actionable Insight: Entrepreneurs should explore South Bruce for its supportive business climate, while families will value the strong sense of community and affordable lifestyle. | Discover More.
Week of Dec 18
Restoration Progresses at Kincardine's Stoney Island Conservation Area
Restoration efforts continue at Stoney Island Conservation Area after the removal of over 7,300 ash trees infested by emerald ash borer. Current work focuses on trail and forest remediation, with public tree-planting events planned for spring 2025 to further rejuvenate the area.
Actionable Insight: Businesses can boost community engagement by participating in local restoration projects, showcasing corporate social responsibility and improving brand reputation. | Read more.
Bruce Power Partners with Toronto Sceptres to Support Women’s Hockey
Bruce Power is now an Official Partner of the Toronto Sceptres in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL). The partnership includes community outreach, youth engagement, and promotional initiatives, strengthening visibility for women's hockey.
Actionable Insight: Companies can enhance brand recognition and goodwill by sponsoring sports teams, particularly those promoting diversity and gender equality. | Read more.
Measles Cases Confirmed and Resolved in Grey-Bruce
Two confirmed measles cases in Grey-Bruce, connected to the New Brunswick outbreak, have been successfully contained with no further community spread. All cases involved unvaccinated individuals, emphasizing the importance of vaccination in disease prevention.
Actionable Insight: Employers should encourage vaccination and ensure health policies are updated to safeguard workplaces against infectious disease disruptions. | Read more.
Bruce Power Pledges $1.5 Million for Bruce County Housing Initiative
Bruce Power has pledged $1.5 million to support an affordable housing project in Bruce County. This initiative aims to alleviate the regional housing shortage and bolster community growth and economic stability.
Actionable Insight: Businesses can invest in local housing initiatives to address workforce needs, demonstrating corporate leadership and enhancing regional economic sustainability. | Read more.
Guardian Angels Campaign Funds CT Scanner for Brightshores Hospital
The Guardian Angels campaign aims to raise funds for a new CT scanner at Brightshores Owen Sound Hospital, essential for maintaining stroke care services. Donors are urged to contribute online or in-person to ensure timely funding.
Actionable Insight: Businesses can strengthen community trust and visibility by supporting healthcare initiatives that address critical medical infrastructure needs. | Read more.
Grey Bruce Farmers’ Week Prepares for 59th Annual Event
The 59th Grey Bruce Farmers’ Week, running January 8-14, 2025, will feature sector-specific programming for agriculture professionals, with expert-led talks on topics like soil health and livestock management.
Actionable Insight: Businesses in agriculture should attend this event to network, learn industry trends, and explore innovations that can improve operations. | Read more.
Housing Initiative Secures Accommodations for Medical Students in Owen Sound
A partnership between Grey Bruce Health Services and Owen Sound Family Health Team provides housing for medical students completing rotations, addressing a major barrier to attracting healthcare talent.
Actionable Insight: Businesses can support initiatives that tackle housing or resource gaps to attract skilled professionals, improving long-term workforce development. | Read more.
Beaver Valley Developments Face Opposition Over Environmental Concerns
Proposed developments in Beaver Valley, including a 370-home subdivision and mega-spa complex, face scrutiny from local groups and the Niagara Escarpment Commission due to environmental and infrastructure concerns.
Actionable Insight: Entrepreneurs should assess the environmental and community impact of major projects to navigate approvals and build public trust. | Read more.
Students Compete in GIS Story Mapping Contest in Grey and Bruce Counties
Over 300 students participated in the GIS Story Mapping contest, using GIS tools to solve geographic challenges. Winning projects highlighted creative approaches to real-world issues using ArcGIS technology.
Actionable Insight: Businesses can collaborate with schools to promote technical skills like GIS, fostering a talent pipeline for data-driven industries. | Read more.
Coldest Night of the Year Events Scheduled Across Grey-Bruce
The Coldest Night of the Year charity walk will take place February 22, 2025, in Grey Highlands, Meaford, Kincardine, and Saugeen Shores, raising funds to support individuals facing homelessness and hunger.
Actionable Insight: Businesses can sponsor or participate in charitable events like CNOY to strengthen community ties and demonstrate a commitment to social causes. | Read more.
Week of Dec 11
Wellness and Recovery Centre in Owen Sound at Capacity
The Wellness and Recovery Centre in Owen Sound, a 45-bed facility for mental health and addiction support, has reached full capacity. Opened in June 2024, it offers holistic care, including beds for Indigenous and transgender clients, with features like Indigenous art and sacred spaces. The demand highlights the urgent need for expanded services in the region. | Read more.
Postal Strike Impacting Local Charities
The ongoing Canada Post strike, initiated on November 15, 2024, has disrupted mail services across Grey and Bruce counties, significantly affecting local charities. Organizations like the United Way of Bruce Grey and Community Foundation Grey Bruce report delays in donations, leading to underfunded programs during a critical time. | Read more.
Meaford Hospital Foundation Launches TipTap Mobile Giving Platform to Support Local Healthcare
The Meaford Hospital Foundation has introduced the TipTap mobile giving platform to enhance local healthcare fundraising. This innovative system allows donors to make quick, contactless contributions using their smartphones, aiming to increase community engagement and support for medical services in Meaford. | Read more.
Province Boosts Dementia Services in Grey Bruce
The Ontario government is investing $86,100 to enhance dementia care in Grey-Bruce. This funding supports the Alzheimer Society of Grey-Bruce's First Link Care Navigation program, which assists individuals living with dementia and their families in accessing necessary resources and services. | Read more.
Candidates Step Up for Role of Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound PC Nominee
The Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound Progressive Conservative Riding Association has confirmed three candidates for the upcoming nomination meeting on January 18, 2025. The candidates are Owen Sound councillor Brock Hamley, former West Grey Mayor Christine Robinson, and former Meaford councillor Paul Vickers. | Read more.
Conservation Halton and PaRx Join Forces to Boost Health Through Nature
Conservation Halton has partnered with PaRx, Canada's national nature prescription program, to allow healthcare providers to prescribe up to ten free visits to Conservation Halton parks. This initiative aims to enhance physical and mental health by encouraging activities like hiking and wildlife observation. | Read more.
Grey County Trail First in Ontario Available to Snowmobilers
The Grey County CP Rail Trail, a 77-kilometre multi-use path from Owen Sound to Dundalk, is Ontario's first trail permitting both motorized and non-motorized users year-round. Activities include hiking, cycling, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, with ATV access permitted seasonally. | Read more.
Blue Mountains Mayor Andrea Matrosovs Named Grey County Warden
Blue Mountains Mayor Andrea Matrosovs has been acclaimed as Grey County Warden for 2025. She is the third woman to hold this position, emphasizing collaboration among municipalities to address housing, long-term care, and emergency services. | Read more.
Grey Bruce Experiences Second Suspected Fatal Overdose in a Week
Grey Bruce Public Health has reported six suspected drug poisonings, including one fatality, between November 29 and December 2, 2024. This marks the second suspected fatal overdose in a week, with fentanyl identified as a factor in some cases. | Read more.
Grey Bruce Home Sales Rocket Up in November
The Grey Bruce real estate market saw a 32.2% surge in home sales this November compared to the same time last year, signaling market recovery. The average home price for October 2024 was $642,622, slightly down by 0.9% year-over-year. | Read more.
GBPH Scores Big in Attacking Medication Misuse Campaign
Grey Bruce Public Health's "Attacking Medication Misuse" campaign collected over 170 expired or unused pharmaceuticals in exchange for 150 hockey vouchers. The initiative aimed to promote safe disposal practices and prevent misuse. | Read more.
Bruce County Joins Ontario Food Cluster
Bruce County Council has joined the Ontario Food Cluster, a partnership aiming to attract food processing investments. This move is expected to boost the local agri-food sector and support industry growth. | Read more.
Landowners Focus of Stewardship
Local landowners were invited to a December 8 stewardship event at Kimberley Hall. Indigenous youth from the Aki Guardians shared insights from a year-long ecological assessment, promoting sustainable land management practices. | Read more.
Health Board Discusses Addiction Treatment Model
Grey Bruce Health Services highlighted its addiction treatment model, featuring the 45-bed Wellness and Recovery Centre in Owen Sound. Opened in June 2024, the centre provides withdrawal management, stabilization, and holistic care, including Indigenous and transgender-focused supports. | Read more.
Week of Dec 4
Owen Sound Rejects Private Property Tree Policy Proposal
Owen Sound council voted 6-3 against creating a policy to manage mature and native trees on private property, citing concerns about government overreach into personal property rights. Proponents argued for the environmental and community benefits of protecting the urban tree canopy, while opponents emphasized existing tree policies and property owner autonomy. Mayor Ian Boddy encouraged future discussions, suggesting educational rather than enforcement approaches. | Read more.
Farmers Prepare for Potential Tariff Shock Under Trump Administration
Canadian farmers face uncertainty as President-elect Donald Trump signals possible 10-20% tariffs on imports and a reevaluation of trade agreements like CUSMA. Tariffs could undercut Canadian agricultural exports, including beef and pork, forcing price cuts and disrupting cross-border trade. Industry leaders emphasize aligning Canadian policies with U.S. interests to protect vital trade. Experts warn Canada might adopt protective measures, including subsidies and stricter regulations, to mitigate risks. Collaboration with Mexican trade counterparts is also underway. | Read more.
Safe ‘N Sound Secures Grey County Support for Emergency Shelter Funding
Safe ‘N Sound Grey Bruce has gained Grey County's support for a $500,000 federal funding application under the Reaching Home initiative. Aiming to address Owen Sound’s homelessness crisis, the nonprofit plans to establish a 28-bed, low-barrier shelter with 24/7 staff, privacy-focused rooms, and communal spaces. Current services are overwhelmed, turning away individuals nightly. If funded, this project would complement existing county programs and provide vital, dignified housing. | Read more.
Grey Bruce Health Coalition Wins Community Activist of the Year Award
The Grey Bruce Health Coalition earned the 2024 Community Activist of the Year award for its advocacy against healthcare privatization and support for rural hospitals. Key campaigns included a 2022 referendum opposing privatization and organizing protests. Co-chair Brenda Scott highlighted challenges like ER closures and reduced cancer care. The coalition vows to defend equitable healthcare access and uphold the Canada Health Act amidst increasing privatization concerns. | Read more.
NWMO Selects Northern Ontario for Nuclear Fuel Repository
The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) has chosen Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation and the Township of Ignace as Canada’s site for a deep geological repository for used nuclear fuel. Despite a recent South Bruce referendum favoring the project, NWMO prioritized this location, emphasizing consent-driven decisions. NWMO CEO Laurie Swami called it a historic step toward addressing nuclear waste responsibly while advancing climate goals through Indigenous and community collaboration. | Read more.
Marsh Street Rocks Inspires Future Local Rock Stars
The Marsh Street Rocks program in Clarksburg nurtures young musical talent, pairing them with seasoned musicians like Craig Smith. Launched in 2016, it has become a flagship initiative of the Marsh Street Centre, offering kids the tools to realize their rock star aspirations. Alongside concerts and community events, the Centre ensures accessibility through grants and sponsorships. It also supports various arts programs, seniors’ wellness initiatives, and professional recording services. | Read more.
Grey County Shifts to Hybrid Planning Model to Address Municipal Concerns
Grey County is revising its centralized planning proposal, opting to explore a hybrid model that supports some municipalities while allowing others to maintain current planning services. This compromise follows feedback highlighting the need for a phased, adaptable approach. With Ontario's housing goals driving the initiative, the county is also identifying "investment-ready" properties to attract development. Joint sessions and partnerships, including input from EPCOR, aim to streamline future land-use projects. | Read more.
Cyclists Demand Safety Upgrades on Grey Road 1 Amid Rising Risks
Cyclists in Georgian Bluffs are urging Grey County to fast-track reconstruction of an 8-kilometer stretch of Grey Road 1, citing deteriorating conditions and safety concerns. The area, a key cycling route promoted by the county, sees heavy traffic, including trucks, creating hazardous conditions. Grey County’s current plan schedules repairs for 2030, but cyclists warn delays could result in fatalities. Officials support paved shoulders but cite budget and prioritization challenges. | Read more.
Ontario Eases OPP Policing Cost Burden for Municipalities
Ontario has announced $77 million in financial relief for municipalities facing significant OPP cost increases in 2025, alongside continuing $125 million for court security and prisoner transport. Key measures include a 10% reduction in 2025 policing bills and reviews of the OPP billing model. Mayors of affected regions, such as Walkerton and Grey Highlands, welcomed the relief, emphasizing its importance in easing budget pressures for small and rural communities. | Read more.
Ontario Faces Record ER Closures Amid Staffing Shortages in 2024
Ontario’s ER closures reached unprecedented levels in 2024, with rural hospitals like Chesley, Clinton, and Durham particularly affected. CBC's analysis revealed over 93% of disruptions were scheduled reductions in hours, primarily due to severe nurse shortages. These closures disproportionately impact rural communities, leaving residents without timely care. While the province has pledged $500M for nursing education and retention, critics demand urgent systemic reforms to address staffing and restore 24/7 ER access. | Read more.
Crime Stoppers of Grey Bruce Nearing Closure Without Immediate Support
Crime Stoppers of Grey Bruce risks shutting down by March 2025 due to funding and volunteer shortages. Operating since 1987, the program provides anonymous crime tip services, leading to notable recoveries and arrests. Recent donations, including a $500 contribution, have sparked a fundraising campaign. The organization seeks financial support and volunteer board members to sustain operations. Donations and details are available at cstip.ca. | Read more.
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