The Northern Ontario Women’s (NOW) Caucus began as a conversation over a year ago between two mayors, both women and both elected to serve their community. Mayor Michelle Boileau of Timmins and Mayor Cheryl Fort of Hornepayne recognized that the support they were looking for as municipal leaders, was a shared experience for women in office.
NOW has since grown to over 21 participants, all mayors of Northern Ontario communities. Formal membership is currently being offered to elected officials in Northern Ontario, who identify as women, and who want to lead the conversation on priorities and issues that are directly affecting women in the northern region.
The group recently met at the Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) conference in Toronto to establish the caucus’ terms of reference, mission and vision. The mission – to create an alliance of women municipal representatives across Northern Ontario, [and] to create and preserve space for women in municipal politics, as every voice matters.
NOW’s membership includes women with diverse professional backgrounds in economic development, locomotive engineering, skilled trades training, health care, employment services, marketing, business management, and more. Many have multi-year experience on municipal council. The opportunity to support each other professionally, to develop leadership skills, and to increase the number of women participating in local politics, is invaluable. It sets a foundation from which NOW can advocate, support, and improve the quality of life in Northern Ontario.
NOW’s goal is to not only amplify the voice of women in Northern Ontario, but to speak as one voice that is focused on building positive relationships for the communities it represents. The group is looking to work together and with federal and provincial partners to bring women’s perspective to the challenges and opportunities facing each community.
Moving forward, NOW is expected to meet quarterly. The group is working to formalize membership, an election procedure for an executive committee, and to develop a strategic plan that identifies common priorities. With a vision of becoming, “a strong network of women shaping the future of Northern Ontario communities”, NOW is gaining momentum and has the motivation to legitimize the role of women in politics.
Quotes:
“Strong and resilient women applaud, uphold, and have other each others’ backs. Impact happens when entire societies celebrate women and stand with them in equality. NOW is committed to forging women's economic empowerment; supporting women and girls into leadership; designing and building infrastructure that meets the needs of women and girls; and, helping women and girls make informed decisions about their health. We can make Northern Ontario one of the best places to live for women!” ~ Mayor Cheryl Fort, Hornepayne
“There is power in standing together as women, united in our commitment to serve and represent our respective communities. The female voice in politics is important because it reflects the unique challenges and opportunities women and girls experience. It’s invaluable to bring that perspective forward, and to bring that perspective into focus. NOW allows municipal leaders to work together to inform decision-making and help develop policies to improve, not only the lives of women in Northern Ontario, but the quality of life for all residents. I’m excited to see what NOW can accomplish. Let’s be heard. Let’s make change. Let’s celebrate our success.” ~ Mayor Michelle Boileau, Timmins
Amanda Dyer
The City of Timmins extreme cold weather alert continues for Friday, February 16, 2024. Temperatures are expected to drop to -26 overnight (inclusive of wind chill) Risk of frost bite.
Exposure to extreme cold temperatures can cause serious and sometimes even life-threatening health problems. Protection from extreme cold conditions includes avoiding wind exposure, dressing in warm layers, and covering exposed skin.
People requiring emergency shelter can attend the location at 316 Spruce St. S. for assistance.
Amanda Dyer
Monday, February 19, 2024 is Family Day.
The following municipal services will be closed or unavailable:
- Service Timmins and the Provincial Offences Office
- The Timmins Public Library and C.M. Shields Library branch
- Timmins Museum: National Exhibition Centre
- There will be no Timmins Transit bus service
- Deloro Landfill
- There will be no household waste and recycling collection. Residential waste and recycling collection that falls on Monday will be collected on Tuesday, February 20, 2024.
For more information about municipal services visit www.timmins.ca or call Service Timmins at 705-264-1331.
Amanda Dyer
The City of Timmins is issuing an extreme cold weather alert for Thursday, February 15, 2024. Temperatures are expected to drop to -26 overnight (inclusive of wind chill) Risk of frost bite.
Exposure to extreme cold temperatures can cause serious and sometimes even life-threatening health problems. Protection from extreme cold conditions includes avoiding wind exposure, dressing in warm layers, and covering exposed skin.
People requiring emergency shelter can attend the location at 316 Spruce St. S. for assistance.
Amanda Dyer
February 13, 2024 – Ottawa, Ont. – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
Local Canadian Army Reserve units are training in multiple locations in Northern Ontario in the upcoming weeks. Dates include February 15, February 22, and March 7, 2024. Most training will be done in the evening hours of the dates specified.
33 Canadian Brigade Group’s Northern Tactical Group, consisting of soldiers from The Irish Regiment of Canada (Sudbury) and The Algonquin Regiment (North Bay & Timmins) will conduct this infantry navigation training using official Land Use Agreements in the following locations:
• Sudbury: Kivi Park & Crowley Lake Outpost;
• North Bay: Laurier Woods Conservation Area; and
• Timmins: Hersey Lake Conservation Area.
Members of the public may see Canadian Army soldiers in uniform with their service weapons, and military vehicles on local roads and highways.
No ammunition of any kind will be present.
This training is practice for later activities at Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) bases and ranges and allows these units and personnel to confirm skills locally before firing live ammunition at approved training facilities.
This important exercise also prepares Canadian Army Reserve members to operate in various weather conditions and maintain fitness and stamina while carrying their equipment. Regular, scheduled training keeps our soldiers and units ready to respond to missions in Canada like floods and wildfires and support international stability operations with partners and allies. All Canadian Army Reserve members train regularly to maintain and further develop their skills in safe and effective operations, and to test discipline, safety, and effectiveness.
All measures are being taken to ensure minimum inconvenience in these areas during the exercise dates, and members of the public are asked to use extra caution when approaching military vehicles and are thanked in advance for their understanding and co-operation.
Amanda Dyer
The City of Timmins is issuing an extreme cold weather alert for Tuesday, February 13, 2024. Temperatures are expected to drop to -26 overnight (inclusive of wind chill) Risk of frost bite.
Exposure to extreme cold temperatures can cause serious and sometimes even life-threatening health problems. Protection from extreme cold conditions includes avoiding wind exposure, dressing in warm layers, and covering exposed skin.
People requiring emergency shelter can attend the location at 316 Spruce St. S. for assistance.
Amanda Dyer
Night Time Snow Removal 9:00 pm to 7:00 am
From February 9 to February 16, 2024, the Public Works Department wishes to inform the public that crews will be doing night time snow removal in the areas listed below.
Sunday February 11, Starting 9:00 pm:
Timmins: Norman, Riverside, Connecting Link
Monday February 12, Starting 9:00 pm:
Timmins: Denise, Suzanne, Lonergan
Tuesday February 13, Starting 9:00 pm:
Timmins: Connecting Link, Royale, Riverside
Wednesday February 14, Starting 9:00 pm:
Timmins: Riverside, Shirley, Park
Daytime Snow Removal 7:30 am to 4:00 pm
From February 9 to February 16, 2024, the Public Works Department wishes to inform the public that crews will be doing snow removal in the areas listed below.
Friday February 16, Starting 7:30 am:
Timmins: Churches and Storefronts
South Porcupine: Churches and storefronts
Note on the Plan:
The above plan or parts of the plan may be changed at any time and/or delayed if a winter storm is in effect or related to mechanical issues. The snow removal crew will change to a snow plowing operation. Those streets that may not be completed will be completed on the next available snow removal shift.
Illegal placement of Snow from Residential Property onto Sidewalk and Road:
A reminder that City BYLAW 1993-4162 does not allow a person to place snow from a person’s property and place onto the road or sidewalk.
Posted No Parking Signs Advising Winter Maintenance:
Public Works would like to remind residents that yellow No Parking Signs will be posted to notify that Winter Maintenance will be taking place for daytime operations. Vehicles not complying with these No Parking signs will be ticketed and towed to allow for Snow Removal Crew to advance.
Winter Parking Ban:
A reminder that the Winter Parking Ban is effect and parking on the street is not permitted on any day, between the hours of 11:30 pm to 7:30 am, from November 1 through April 30.
Priority Sequence for Snow Removal Operations:
Day Operation:
Snow removal is never done in the area where Sanitation is taken place.
High density residential areas (Older Section of City: one-ways, narrow streets);
Low density residential areas
Night Operation:
Highway sections;
High density commercial sections;
Main Arterial Routes.
Safety:
A reminder to respect safety signage as the safety of workers is very important.
We thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
Public Works
Becky Cashmore
The City of Timmins is honouring three exceptional community volunteers with the first Heart of Gold Civic Awards, a new recognition program that celebrates individuals and groups for their outstanding accomplishments and contributions to the community.
The recipients awarded at Tuesday night’s council meeting are:
Ron and Lucille Moisan (Volunteer and Community Service) – Ron and Lucille Moisan were nominated for their over 20 years of volunteer service to the South Porcupine Food Bank, and for their work on the Bannerman Park Porcupine Restoration Committee. They are credited with being a “community-minded couple” who are well-known for helping anyone in need for over 60 years.
In 2003, recognizing that Bannerman Park was underused and could use some rehabilitation, Ron and Lucille formed a committee of residents who wished to assist with restoration of the park. Through their leadership, a park design was approved and reconstruction of the gardens, lighting, pathways, and gazebo was completed over several years. Efforts included significant fundraising for the upgrades and on-going maintenance of the park. Bannerman Park is now a popular space for weddings, picnics, and summer concerts on the shores of Porcupine Lake.
Cameron Grant (Volunteer and Community Service) – Cameron Grant was nominated by the 2022-2023 Board of Directors for Mount Jamieson Resort for his outstanding contributions to the organization. He is commended for his work on rebranding the snow resort, rebuilding its reputation as a pillar of sports and community excellence, and helping to create a viable and sustainable recreation facility for Timmins and area.
Through Grant’s stewardship as a member of the Board of Directors, he is credited with creating a space that celebrates innovation, supports diversity, equity, and inclusion, and remains accessible to residents in Timmins and the region.
“We at Mount Jamieson cannot stress enough our appreciation and recognition of his tireless hours of commitment, dedication, expertise, and experience, as well as his love and passion for the sport [of skiing] … and to ensure that the appropriate mechanisms are in place to secure [the resort’s] longevity and success well into the future.” ~ Mount Jamieson Board of Directors 2022-23
Recipients of the Heart of Gold Recognition Program are recognized once a month during a regular meeting of council. Residents are encouraged to nominate someone they know who has made a positive impact on the community or achieved outstanding accomplishment in the following categories:
• Volunteer and Community Service
• Youth Community and Civic Engagement
• Achievement in Sports
• Achievement in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics)
For the nomination form and program eligibility, visit: https://www.timmins.ca/our_services/city_hall/mayor_and_council/heart_of_gold_civic_recognition_program
Amanda Dyer
Beginning Monday, February 12, Timmins’ paratransit service will transition to an automated mobility management system called Timmins Transit On-Demand. The new software platform is powered by Spare, and includes an easy-to-use app that will make booking an accessible ride fast and convenient.
On Monday, paratransit users will be able to request and pay for shared-ride, curb-to-curb service through the Timmins Transit On-Demand app. The app eliminates the need for advanced booking and provides real-time trip notifications, making it easier to plan travel. The paratransit service area is also being expanded. Coverage will extend north to areas off Laforest Rd., with service to the Timmins Victor M. Power Airport; south to areas around Goldmine Rd.; east to the Hallnor Rd. and Hwy 101 E. intersection; and, west to Kamiskotia Rd., with service to Mount Jamieson Resort.
The Timmins Transit On-Demand app is available to download now from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store. Paratransit users are encouraged to download the app, create an account, and familiarize themselves with how to book, pay, and confirm their ride.
Timmins Transit On-Demand is one way the City is looking to modernize public transportation in Timmins. Plans are underway to pilot a microtransit system in Porcupine and South Porcupine that will expand the current transit service area, using the City’s paratransit buses. Microtransit solutions allow cities to fill gaps in their fixed-route network by connecting riders to existing conventional transit. That means, riders in Porcupine and South Porcupine, including Connaught Hill, who do not live near a static bus stop will be able to use Timmins Transit On-Demand to catch their bus. More information about the expanded microtransit service will be available soon.
Paratransit is an accessible transit solution that requires registration. Current registered users are already pre-approved for use of the app. New users can register by filling out an application available online at Timmins.ca. For assistance, visit the Timmins Transit main terminal on Spruce St. S. or call 705-360-2600 ext. 3504.
Delivering a modern, efficient, and convenient public transportation network is Timmins Transit’s main goal. New technologies are being put in place to help move more people and make better use of Timmins Transit resources.
Amanda Dyer
File No. Z-2023-02
TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the City of Timmins will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, City of Timmins, 220 Algonquin Boulevard East, Timmins, Ontario, to gather public input regarding a proposed Zoning By-law Amendment under Section 34 of the Planning Act, R.S.O 1990, c. P. 13, as amended.
THE PURPOSE AND EFFECT of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment is to regulate storage containers within the City of Timmins. The following changes are proposed:
A storage container shall be used as an accessory building or structure in all zones subject to the following conditions:
Residential Zones - NA-R1, NA-R2, NA-R3, NA-RM1, NA-RM2, RD-WN, RD-MHP, RD-RE1 and RD-RE2
a. a storage container shall conform to the accessory building or structure requirements of the zone in which it is located.
b. a storage container shall require a peaked or sloped roof with a minimum six inch (6”) overhang and an exterior cladding such as vinyl, aluminum or wood type siding shall be installed over the exterior of the storage container. The storage container can match the exterior finish and roof slope of the main building provided it conforms with the accessory building or structure requirements of the zone in which it is located.
c. a maximum of one (1) storage container per property.
Commercial Zones - EA-CG, EA-CH and EA-CR
a. a storage container shall conform to the accessory building or structure requirements for the zone in which it is located.
b. a storage container may match the exterior appearance of the main building regarding roof slope and exterior finish or shall be painted a neutral colour without any markings (including letters, numbers, decals, stickers, symbols or rust) visible on the exterior or have vinyl, aluminum, or wood type siding on the exterior.
c. a maximum of two (2) storage containers per property.
d. stacking shall not be permitted.
Institutional Zone – NA-IN
a. a storage container shall conform to the accessory building or structure requirements for the zone in which it is located.
b. a storage container may match the exterior appearance of the main building regarding roof slope and exterior finish or shall be painted a neutral colour without any markings (including letters, numbers, decals, stickers, symbols or rust) visible on the exterior or have vinyl, aluminum, or wood type siding on the exterior.
c. a maximum of one (1) storage container per property.
Rural Zones – RD-RU, RD-OS, RD-HAZ
a. a storage container shall conform to the accessory building or structure requirements for the zone in which it is located.
b. a storage container may match the exterior appearance of the main building regarding roof slope and exterior finish or shall be painted a neutral colour without any markings (including letters, numbers, decals, stickers, symbols or rust) visible on the exterior or have vinyl, aluminum, or wood type siding on the exterior.
c. a maximum of one (1) storage container shall be permitted on property zoned as RD-OS and RD-HAZ.
d. a maximum of four (4) storage containers shall be permitted on property zoned as RD-RU.
In all Industrial Zones, Extractive Industrial Zone or lands used for a mineral mining operation, the storage container shall conform to the accessory building or structure requirements for the zone in which it is located.
A storage container shall be used exclusively for the storage of goods and materials and may not be used to accommodate work areas, shops, office uses, retail uses, showrooms or human habitation.
Where the area of the storage container is equal to 15 square metres (161.4 square feet) or greater, a building permit shall be required. Where the area of the storage container is less than 15 square metres (161.4 square feet), a “Small Accessory Structure Permit” shall be required from the City of Timmins By-Law Services Department.
The proposed amendment is general in nature and applies to various properties throughout the City of Timmins, therefore no key map has been provided in this notice.
ANY PERSON may attend the public meeting and/or make written or verbal representation either in support of or in opposition to the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment.
If a person or public body would otherwise have an ability to appeal the decision of Council of the City of Timmins to the Ontario Land Tribunal but the person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the City of Timmins before the by-law is passed, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision.
If a person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting, or make written submissions to the City of Timmins before the by-law is passed, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Land Tribunal unless, in the opinion of the Tribunal, there are reasonable grounds to do so.
If you wish to be notified of the decision of the City of Timmins on the proposed zoning by-law amendment, you must make a written request to Steph Palmateer, City Clerk, City of Timmins, 220 Algonquin Boulevard East, Timmins, Ontario, P4N 1B3.
For more information about this matter, including information about appeal rights, contact the Planning Division, City of Timmins, 220 Algonquin Boulevard East, Timmins, Ontario, P4N 1B3, telephone number 705-360-2624 or via email.
Dated at the City of Timmins this 6th day of February, 2024.
David St.Onge
|