Community Open House: Smiths Falls Youth Arena Feasibility Study

As part of the Youth Arena Feasibility Study conducted by Nustadia Recreation Inc., the Town of Smiths Falls is excited to host a Community Open House to discuss proposed building options for the Youth Arena. This event will provide an opportunity for community members to learn more about the study’s insights, review potential design options for the facility, and share their feedback to help shape the future of our recreation infrastructure.

Date: Wednesday, January 29th, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Smiths Falls Community Centre Hall

What to Expect:
• Displays showcasing design options for the arena, including renovation and new-build possibilities.
• Opportunities to speak with Town staff and project consultants to gather your valuable input on priorities for the arena.

Your voice matters!

Join us to ensure that the Smiths Falls Youth Arena continues to meet the needs of our growing and diverse community.

South East Health Unit Media Release

Jan. 16, 2025

Eastern Ontario public health units address growing crisis of food insecurity

EASTERN ONTARIO - Public health units across eastern Ontario are collaborating to raise awareness about the growing problem of food insecurity, which is having a profound impact on individuals and families in the region. Food insecurity is the inadequate or insecure access to food due to financial constraints. This issue not only threatens the physical and mental health of both adults and children, but also places increased pressure on health-care services.

Food insecurity is a widespread issue that is increasingly being seen at the regional, provincial, and national levels. In 2023, nearly one in four households (24 percent) experienced food insecurity in the eastern region of Ontario, a significant rise from 16 percent the previous year.

Public health units across the province monitor food affordability by comparing the costs of food and rent to various individual and household income scenarios. Findings from these scenarios show that an individual receiving Ontario Works in eastern Ontario struggles to afford both food and rent, with a monthly deficit ranging from -$263 to -$795. Data collected also indicates that low-income households face similar challenges and are unable to meet their basic needs after paying for rent, utilities, transportation, clothing, medications and other essentials.

Food insecurity is not a budgeting or lack of food skills issue; it is a direct result of inadequate income. Poverty is the root cause and addressing food insecurity requires systemic, income-based solutions to ensure people can afford the basic essentials of life. Income-based solutions could include: 

• Indexing social assistance rates to the cost of living, ensuring benefits keep pace with inflation and rising living expenses.
• Reassessing the existing income support programs for individuals with low-incomes, including child benefits and disability benefits.
• Expanding tax filing programs to ensure households living with low-incomes have access to eligible government subsidies.
• Enhancing employment standards to improve benefits and ensure livable wages for all workers.

Learn more about food insecurity and effective responses by visiting: https://proof.utoronto.ca/

For more information from your local public health agency, visit:

• Eastern Ontario Health Unit
• Ottawa Public Health
  • South East Health Unit, formerly:
  • Hastings Prince Edward Public Health
  • KFL&A Public Health
  • Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit

For interviews, contact:

• Eastern Ontario Health Unit – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• South East Health Unit, formerly:
  • Hastings Prince Edward Public Health – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
  • KFL&A Public Health – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
  • Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.g
• Ottawa Public Health – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Township of Drummond/North Elmsley will soon have a second brand-new plow truck clearing the roads. The Township is thrilled to announce the addition of 2 new plow trucks to its fleet, bringing the total to six. The new trucks will replace a contracted plow route as well as an older unit, enhancing our winter maintenance capabilities.

This new chassis is a 2025 International truck, plow and harness built by Tenco and outfitted and supplied by Oakes Truck Sales right here in Drummond North Elmsley Township. It is currently being equipped with GPS, and the sander/salter is being calibrated to our specific needs. The trucks will be operational this month.

These new additions to our convoy will enhance efficiency during critical storm events, ensuring the safety of our residents and drivers when it matters most. By improving our winter maintenance capabilities, we are committed to providing better service and fostering a safer community for everyone, says Reeve Fournier.

The trucks are used extensively in the summer to apply water and gravel to the road network to support our grading operations.

Tom Oakes presented Reeve Steve Fournier with the keys to the newest addition to the Township’s fleet. And yes, it is red! The Public Works Manager subsequently removed the keys from Fournier’s hand in case he had any ideas of test driving the truck.

Detail Design and Class Environmental Assessment for the Reconstruction of Highway 7 in the Town of Perth, G.W.P. 75-99-00 

THE PROJECT
The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has retained the services of Egis (formerly McIntosh Perry Consulting Engineers Ltd.) and LEA Consulting Ltd. Joint Venture (Egis-LEA Joint Venture) to carry out the Detail Design and Class Environmental Assessment for the reconstruction of Highway 7 in the Town of Perth from approximately 1.3 km west of County Road 511 easterly to Wayside Drive West, approximately 4.5 km, County of Lanark. The study is following the approved planning process for a Group B undertaking in accordance with the Class Environmental Assessment for Provincial Transportation Facilities (2000), with the opportunity for public input throughout.

The Study includes:

• Resurfacing of the highway throughout the project limits;
• Widening of Highway 7 between County Road 511 and Perth Mews Mall and between Wilson Street and Drummond Street, approximately 2.5 km to accommodate a continuous two-way left turn lane;
• Construction of dedicated left turn and right turn lanes at the following intersections: County Road 511, Perth Mews Mall, commercial property at Wilson Street, Drummond Street West and Wilson Street;
• Construction of a left turn slip around for vehicles turning left in mainline Highway 7 onto Dufferin Road;
•  Construction of a centerline left turn lane east of Drummond Street in an eastbound direction only to various businesses;
•  Providing upgraded commercial entrances as required throughout the project limits;
• Closing Dufferin Road at Drummond Street West and Morris Road South at Highway 7;
• Construction of a new municipal roadway from Dufferin Road Southerly to Highway 7 with a new intersection at Highway 7; and
• Intersection improvements and widening at County Road 511.

Additional detailed information including plan drawings are available for viewing at www.highway7improvements.com.

TRANSPORTATION ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY REPORT ADDENDUM

The purpose of this notice is to inform the public that an addendum to the Transportation Environmental Study Report (TESR) for the Preliminary Design and Class Environmental Assessment for Highway 7 from west of County Road 511 to Wayside Drive West, Town of Perth, GWP 75-99-00, May 2009, has been prepared to document changes to the Preliminary Design such as additional property requirements. A copy of the TESR Addendum will be available from November 28^th, 2024 to January 10^th, 2025 for a 30-day comment period at www.highway7improvements.com. If you have any accessibility needs to review the TESR Addendum, please contact one of the project team members below.

COMMENTS
Interested persons may provide written comments to our project team by January 10^th, 2025. All comments and concerns should be sent directly to one, or both, of the project team members listed below.

Mr. Bob Boutilier
Project Manager
Egis
516 O’Connor Drive
Kingston, ON K7P 1N3
tel: 343-344-2638 or
toll free: 1-888-348-8991
e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Mr. Chris Belanger
Senior Project Manager
Ministry of Transportation – Project Delivery East
1355 John Counter Boulevard
Kingston, ON K7L 5A3
tel: 613-583-4573
e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

In addition, a request may be made to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks for an order requiring a higher level of study (i.e., requiring an individual/comprehensive EA approval before being able to proceed), or that conditions be imposed (e.g., require further studies), only on the grounds that the requested order may prevent, mitigate, or remedy adverse impacts on constitutionally protected Aboriginal and treaty rights. Requests on other grounds will not be considered. Requests should include the requester contact information and full name for the ministry. Requests should specify what kind of order is being requested (request for additional conditions or a request for an individual/comprehensive environmental assessment), how an order may prevent, mitigate, or remedy those potential adverse impacts, and any information in support of the statements in the request. This will ensure that the ministry is able to efficiently begin reviewing the request.

The request should be sent in writing or by email to:

Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks
Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks
777 Bay Street, 5th Floor
Toronto, ON M7A 1P5
e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Director, Environmental Assessment Branch
Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks
135 St. Clair Ave. W, 1st Floor
Toronto, ON M4V 1P5
e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

A copy of the request should also be sent to the project team members listed above by mail or by email. All information/comments will be maintained on file during the study and may be included in the study documentation. Information will be collected in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record.

If you have accessibility requirements in order to participate in this project, please contact one of the project team members listed above.

NOTICE ISSUED ON: NOVEMBER 28^th, 2024

Township of Drummond North/Elmsley Approves 2025 Budget

At its meeting on December 10^th, 2024, Township of Drummond/North Elmsley Council gave final approval to its 2025 budget.  The 2025 budget translates to a 5.9% residential tax rate increase.
This fiscally responsible budget allows the municipality to maintain the services the community relies on while working to finalize the long-term plan in 2025 for maintaining, repairing and keeping all assets in good working condition.  This approach will ensure that the Township remains well-positioned to meet current needs while preparing for future requirements.

A 5.9% residential tax rate increase equates to an approximate increase of $75.35 on a residential property that is assessed at $300,000.

The total 2025 tax requirement of $5,593,856 is $405,416 more than was required in 2024.
The largest operating budget pressures the Township faces for 2025 include the annual bridge loan repayment; increased compensation and benefit costs for staff; increased fire service costs, increased policing services, additional funds to reserves and reduced revenue from Provincial Offences Act offences.

Capital projects for 2025 include:

• Road Design & Engineering – for future construction projects $170,000
• Spot Paving & Crack Sealing – throughout the Township $140,000
• Generator Repairs/Installation $60,000
• Street Light Installation $10,000

For further information, please visit www.dnetownship.ca

For further information contact:

Angela Millar, Treasurer
Township of Drummond/North Elmsley
310 Port Elmsley Road, Perth, ON, K7H 3C5
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.           
613-267-6500 x 215

MEDIA RELEASE
Dec 6, 2024

Boards for Hastings Prince Edward, Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox & Addington and Leeds, Grenville and Lanark vote to merge to form the South East Health Unit
For immediate release:

The boards of health for Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH), Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox & Addington Public Health (KFLAPH) and Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit (LGLDHU) have voted to merge to form the South East Health Unit.

All three boards met this week, and all voted unanimously to merge. As such, the South East Health Unit will come into being on Jan. 1, 2025.
The Ministry of Health has committed to provide funding for the first three years of the transition process.

“We are very pleased that we’ll be able to reach the goal we’ve all been working towards for more than a year now,” said KFL&A Board Chair Wess Garrod. “The merger will ensure we have the skilled personnel needed to deliver the highest quality and most effective public health services to our communities.”

The new health unit will serve the existing geographic boundaries of the KFLA, HPE, and LGL, covering a nearly 20,000 square kilometre area, and serving more than 550,000 residents.
“A merger of our three agencies will strengthen capacity and local public health programs and services, resulting in overall healthier communities across the South East region,” said HPEPH Board Chair Jan O'Neill.

Dr. Piotr Oglaza will be the Medical Officer of Health and CEO for the merged agency, while Dr. Ethan Toumishey and Dr. Linna Li will both be named Deputy Medical Officers of Health who will respectively cover two vast geographic regions. Dr. Li will be supporting the LGL region and Frontenac County, while Dr. Toumishey will be supporting the HPE region, L&A County, and the City of Kingston. Dr. Hugh Guan will maintain his role as Associate Medical Officer of Health supporting the whole merged agency. A board of health will be in place with representation from across the new geographic region in the new year.

The new governance structure will ensure that the entire South East region has the benefit of four experts guiding public health issues locally, while still ensuring that each geographic area retains local leadership during the transition to a larger agency.

“Although there is still a lot of work to be done, all three agencies, leadership teams and boards have been working tirelessly to prepare for the merger. Speaking for all the Board Chairs, we want to extend our gratitude and thanks to all those who have been preparing behind the scenes so that our agencies can come together as the South East Health Unit in the new year,” said LGLDHU Board Chair Peter McKenna.

Collaboration with local partners will continue as each office works with their communities to ensure a smooth transition to a merged entity and to maintain appropriate services and supports across the South East region.

Partners and members of the public should continue to engage with their local public health offices as usual until otherwise directed.

For media inquiries, contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

TOWNSHIP OF DRUMMOND/NORTH ELMSLEY
NOTICE OF PASSING
DEVELOPMENT CHARGES BY-LAW

TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Township of Drummond/North Elmsley passed a municipal-wide Development Charges By-Law No. 2024-036 on November 26, 2024
under section 2 (1) of the Development Charges Act, 1997, S.O. 1997c. 27, as amended;
AND TAKE NOTICE that any person or organization may appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal under section 14 of the Act, in respect of the Development Charges By-Law,
by filing with the Clerk of the municipality of Drummond/North Elmsley on or before January 6, 2025 a notice of appeal setting out the objection to the By-Law and the reasons supporting the objection.
The schedule of development charges imposed by the By-Law, which will come into effect on December 1, 2024, is as follows:

No key map has been provided as the by-law applies to all land located within the municipal boundaries of Drummond/North Elmsley.
A copy of the complete By-Law is available for examination at the Municipal Office and on the Township website
https://www.dnetownship.ca/township-services/reports-studies-and-policies#development-charges
Dated this 27 day of November 2024

Cathy Ryder, CAO/Clerk
310 Port Elmsley Road
Perth, ON K7H 3C6
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
613-267-6500 ext 220

MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
November 19^th, 2024

Applications Are Now Open for Starter Company Plus Program

Empowering Local Entrepreneurs with Training, Coaching, and Funding Opportunities

Smiths Falls, ON – The Small Business Advisory Centre (Smiths Falls/Lanark County/North Leeds Grenville) is excited to announce that applications are now open for the next cohort of the Starter Company Plus program. Funded by the Ontario Government, this program is in place to provide support to entrepreneurs looking to start, grow, or purchase a business that is less than five years old.

Participants will benefit from:

• Training and Mentoring in essential areas like business planning, marketing, and financial management from industry experts so that they can refine their business strategies.
• The chance to pitch their business plan to a grant committee for a non-repayable grant of up to $5,000.

“The Starter Company Plus program has played a pivotal role in helping many local businesses thrive and grow since 2017. It is a unique opportunity to gain expert guidance, build a solid foundation, and pitch for potential funding to bring your business goals to life,” says Cindy James, Manager at the Small Business Advisory Centre.

Numerous businesses across sectors such as food, retail, trades, and services have been successful in accessing the training and funding. Janice Boychuck, owner of Clayton Creative Chocolates https://claytoncreativechocolates.ca and successful SCP participant says, “The Starter Business Program was an absolute game changer! The mentors provided exceptional leadership and guidance, equipping us with all the essential tools to elevate our businesses - covering everything from finances and marketing to goal setting and accountability. The program has completely transformed my small business, providing me with clear direction, enhanced productivity, and a strong financial foundation.”

Key Program Details:

• Application Deadline: December 5th, 2024, at 12 PM- noon.
• Training Start Date: January 13^th, 2025 (includes a 4-day bootcamp)
• Eligibility: Open to start-up businesses who are generating revenue, businesses under five years old looking to expand, or recent business purchases within the Small Business Advisory Centre’s service area.

Spaces are limited, with only a select number of participants accepted per cohort. To apply or learn more about the program, visit: https://smallbizcentre.ca/starter-company-plus/.

For additional information, please contact:
Cindy James
Small Business Advisory Centre (Smiths Falls/Lanark County/North Leeds Grenville)
613-283-0062
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
www.smallbizcentre.ca
Facebook: @smallbizcentre | Instagram: @smallbusinesscentre_sf_lc

About the Small Business Advisory Centre

The SBAC offers free business advisory services for anyone interested in starting or expanding a small business. We run programs such Summer Company and Starter Company Plus, plus many webinars/workshops throughout the year. The Centre is an initiative of the Ontario Government and partners with the Town of Smiths Falls, the County of Lanark and Leeds Grenville (northern portion of the County). A business advisor is available (free) by appointment for one-on-one sessions.

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Enbridge Gas Inc. (Enbridge Gas) is proposing to construct the Lanark and Balderson Community Expansion Project (the “Project”) to supply the Townships of Lanark Highlands, Tay Valley and Drummond/North Elmsley with affordable natural gas.

The Preliminary Preferred Route connects to existing natural gas infrastructure at Highway 511 and Crain Drive. This route is approximately 25 kilometers (km) of natural gas pipeline including approximately 15 km of 4-inch and 6-inch supply lateral pipeline along Highway 511, and approximately 3 km of 2-inch distribution pipeline at various locations along the supply lateral. This route also includes approximately 9 km of 2-inch distribution pipeline within the community of Lanark.

The alternative routes include three potential locations for crossing the Clyde River, located in the community of Lanark.
The proposed pipeline routes were developed for the purposes of an assessment of potential environmental and socioeconomic impacts and do not represent the final Project scope or design. For further details, please refer to the map. Consultation and engagement with Indigenous communities, landowners, government agencies, the public, and other interested persons is an integral component of the Project’s planning process. As such, two Public Information Session options will be held:

In-Person Public Information Session:
Lanark and District Civitan Club
December 4, 2024, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
2144 Pine Grove Road.
Lanark, ON. K0G 1K0

Virtual Public Information Session (online):
December 2, 2024 to December 16, 2024
https://www.solutions.ca/LanarkBaldersonER

A copy of the presentation from the Public Information Session will be available for viewing on the Enbridge Gas project webpage provided below. A questionnaire will also be available as part of the Public Information Session, and you will have the opportunity to provide comments or ask questions about the proposed Project. Input received during the Public Information Session may be used to develop site-specific environmental protection and mitigation measures for the Project. Input and comments about the Project are requested by January 6, 2025.

As part of the planning process, Enbridge Gas has retained Stantec Consulting Ltd. (Stantec) to undertake an Environmental Study for the Project. The Environmental Study will fulfill the requirements of the Ontario Energy Board’s (OEB) “Environmental Guidelines for the Location, Construction, and Operation of Hydrocarbon Projects and Facilities in Ontario, 8th Edition (2023)”. It is anticipated that an Environmental Report for the Project will be completed in Q2 2025, after which Enbridge Gas plans to file a Leave to Construct application for the Project with the OEB. Pending receipt of all approvals and permits, construction is anticipated to commence in 2026.
For any questions, comments or input regarding the Environmental Study for the proposed Lanark and Balderson Community Expansion Project, please contact:

Laura Hill M.Env.Sc.
Project Manager
Stantec Consulting Ltd.
Telephone: (613) 784-2256

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Or visit the project webpage at: https://www.enbridgegas.com/about-enbridge-gas/projects