2024 will be a year of modernization for Timmins Transit. The City’s public transportation system will be updated with four (4) new conventional buses, a new fare box system, and the introduction of a microtransit pilot project for riders in Porcupine and South Porcupine.
At last night’s council meeting, council approved the purchase of 4 news buses, covered in part by the City’s Investing in Canadian Infrastructure Program (ICIP) funding. The new buses will replace others at the end of their useful life under Transit’s asset management plan.
The same funding stream will also allow for the purchase of new fare boxes. Council’s approval for twenty-five (25) fare boxes will not only improve Transit’s data collection on routes and ridership, but will give riders the option of modern electronic payment methods, like paying with debit, credit, smart phones, or reloadable bus passes. The City intends to cover our portion of fare box replacement with provincial gas tax funding, which means the update will have no impact on residents’ property tax bill.
The purchases support Timmins Transit’s plan to move to a microtransit system, beginning with a pilot project in February for users in the east end of the City.
Microtransit is an emerging public transportation system that connects people in low-density areas to existing transit. The City’s current transit system is fixed route; designed to move a large number of people in conventional buses from one place to another. A microtransit system is a smaller, shared transit option that runs on-demand using smaller-scale vehicles, like the City’s current para-transit buses. At last night’s council meeting, Timmins Transit’s current para-transit system was re-branded Timmins On-Demand and the user fees for para-transit riders were updated to prepare for the introduction of microtransit.
In February, the City will begin testing microtransit for riders in Porcupine and South Porcupine. Through a new Timmins On-Demand app, currently in development, residents who live outside of main bus routes or at a distance from a fixed transit stop, can request a ride. One of the City’s smaller para-transit buses will pick that person up and transport them to the nearest fixed stop along the main bus route. Microtransit connects more people to public transportation and makes better use of current transit resources.
Current clients of the para-transit service will now be able to request service on-demand as well, through the app, and without the need for advanced booking. More information on Timmins On-Demand, how to download and use the new app, and what areas are included in the pilot project will be available soon. In the meantime, Transit staff and management are working hard to update and improve the current transit system to one that is modern, efficient, and convenient for all residents.
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Quotes:
“The City is actively working to improve Timmins Transit so that it’s reliable, convenient, and efficient for current and future riders. Public transportation can connect our residents with community support, employment opportunities, education, and more. During our series of ward meetings, we heard from residents in Porcupine, South Porcupine, and Schumacher who wanted better access to public transportation. We are fortunate to have an investment from both the federal and provincial governments that allows us to upgrade our buses, our fare systems, and explore solutions to expand transit access across the city.” ~ Mayor Michelle Boileau
“The changes being made to Timmins Transit this year will prepare us to serve a greater number of residents in the future. The addition of microtransit will expand the Transit system responsibly, with service based on demand. Payment options will be simplified. Access for para-transit customers will be faster and more convenient. It is a year of modernization, and Timmins Transit is happy to implement new systems and strategies that will make public transit a more viable transportation method for more people in our community.” ~ Ken Krcel, Director of Public Works and Environmental Services
Amanda Dyer
2024 will be a year of modernization for Timmins Transit. The City’s public transportation system will be updated with four (4) new conventional buses, a new fare box system, and the introduction of a microtransit pilot project for riders in Porcupine and South Porcupine.
At last night’s council meeting, council approved the purchase of 4 news buses, covered in part by the City’s Investing in Canadian Infrastructure Program (ICIP) funding. The new buses will replace others at the end of their useful life under Transit’s asset management plan.
The same funding stream will also allow for the purchase of new fare boxes. Council’s approval for twenty-five (25) fare boxes will not only improve Transit’s data collection on routes and ridership, but will give riders the option of modern electronic payment methods, like paying with debit, credit, smart phones, or reloadable bus passes. The City intends to cover our portion of fare box replacement with provincial gas tax funding, which means the update will have no impact on residents’ property tax bill.
The purchases support Timmins Transit’s plan to move to a microtransit system, beginning with a pilot project in February for users in the east end of the City.
Microtransit is an emerging public transportation system that connects people in low-density areas to existing transit. The City’s current transit system is fixed route; designed to move a large number of people in conventional buses from one place to another. A microtransit system is a smaller, shared transit option that runs on-demand using smaller-scale vehicles, like the City’s current para-transit buses. At last night’s council meeting, Timmins Transit’s current para-transit system was re-branded Timmins On-Demand and the user fees for para-transit riders were updated to prepare for the introduction of microtransit.
In February, the City will begin testing microtransit for riders in Porcupine and South Porcupine. Through a new Timmins On-Demand app, currently in development, residents who live outside of main bus routes or at a distance from a fixed transit stop, can request a ride. One of the City’s smaller para-transit buses will pick that person up and transport them to the nearest fixed stop along the main bus route. Microtransit connects more people to public transportation and makes better use of current transit resources.
Current clients of the para-transit service will now be able to request service on-demand as well, through the app, and without the need for advanced booking. More information on Timmins On-Demand, how to download and use the new app, and what areas are included in the pilot project will be available soon. In the meantime, Transit staff and management are working hard to update and improve the current transit system to one that is modern, efficient, and convenient for all residents.
____________________________________________________________________________
Quotes:
“The City is actively working to improve Timmins Transit so that it’s reliable, convenient, and efficient for current and future riders. Public transportation can connect our residents with community support, employment opportunities, education, and more. During our series of ward meetings, we heard from residents in Porcupine, South Porcupine, and Schumacher who wanted better access to public transportation. We are fortunate to have an investment from both the federal and provincial governments that allows us to upgrade our buses, our fare systems, and explore solutions to expand transit access across the city.” ~ Mayor Michelle Boileau
“The changes being made to Timmins Transit this year will prepare us to serve a greater number of residents in the future. The addition of microtransit will expand the Transit system responsibly, with service based on demand. Payment options will be simplified. Access for para-transit customers will be faster and more convenient. It is a year of modernization, and Timmins Transit is happy to implement new systems and strategies that will make public transit a more viable transportation method for more people in our community.” ~ Ken Krcel, Director of Public Works and Environmental Services
Amanda Dyer
The Timmins Marlins Swim Club are hosting a swim meet this Saturday, January 20 and Sunday, January 21, 2024 at the Archie Dillon Sportsplex Pool.
All swimming lessons and programming are canceled.
Thank you for your understanding.
Amanda Dyer
City Council has approved the 2024 taxation fund budget with a 3% increase over last year, which covers the City’s operating budget to maintain services and direct investment in capital. Council worked with Administration and Finance to allocate $260,000 of the City’s reserves to drive the total increase down to 3% and a final net expenditure of $47.1 million.
The taxation fund budget represents the City’s portion of the overall municipal budget. This total is combined with the approved budgets from agencies, boards, and commissions, like Timmins Police Service Board and Cochrane District Social Services Administration Board, and school board and MPAC assessments to arrive at the final property tax rate. Council is expected to approve the 2024 tax rates by April.
2024 Operating Budget:
The 2024 net operating budget is $36,741,667. The operating budget covers the cost of daily municipal services such as maintenance of city roads, public transit, garbage collection, snow removal, and parks and arena maintenance.
2024 Capital Budget:
The 2024 capital budget includes a gross expenditure of $38,908,193; however, with funding and reserves, the portion covered by the tax levy, which impacts the final property tax rate, will be $10,365,307. Capital funds support the creation, repair, or replacement of municipal assets that are required to deliver daily services to the community, including infrastructure like roads. This amount does not include capital expenses related to water and wastewater, which are approved as part of the separate utilities fund budget.
This year’s capital budget includes:
• $2.1 million for road repair through the City’s grind and pave program
• $3.5 million (offset by funding) for upgrades to the Mattagami and Porcupine bridges as part of Connecting Link rehabilitation
• $2 million (offset by funding) for repairs to the Mattagami boat launch pier and retaining wall
• $1.7 million in fleet purchases for the Timmins Fire Department
• $5.6 million for Porcupine River Bridge construction (offset with reserve and funding)
The funds will also be used to continue Golden Manor redevelopment and the final downtown segment of the Connecting Link, with plans to begin implementing some of the recommendations from the updated Recreation Master Plan.
For more information on the 2024 budget, visit: https://www.timmins.ca/our_services/finance/city_budget_2024
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Quotes:
“City Council began this year’s budget process with a commitment to engage and listen to residents on how we can work to improve the quality of life in Timmins. This is reflected in the City’s approved operating and capital expenditures for 2024, and the decisions made that will help deliver an efficient, affordable, and sustainable city for all residents. The budget will support a variety of projects and programs that will rehabilitate necessary infrastructure, prioritize community safety and well-being, and encourage growth and development.” ~ Mayor Michelle Boileau
“Preparing a balanced budget during a period of hyperinflation when costs have increased across all departments, in addition to being tasked with maintaining aging infrastructure, is challenging. City Council worked diligently with Administration and staff to deliver a budget that works for today and plans ahead for tomorrow. The City’s taxation fund outlines how we plan to spend and invest tax revenues. The next step is confirming 2024 school board and property assessments, and approved budgets for the City’s service partners and provincially mandated programs, before approving the final tax rates for 2024.” ~ Natalie Moore, Director of Finance
“The City’s goal is to deliver a citizen-oriented, municipal system that is modern, effective, and efficient. We are focused on meeting residents’ daily needs, and making long-term plans that will move Timmins forward with room for expansion and development. We recognize that our financial resources are finite, and have worked diligently to balance service delivery with capital demand, such as road and infrastructure upgrades. Through the leadership and direction of City Council, coupled with the expertise of our staff, we have arrived at a budget that will work for all residents.” ~ Dave Landers, Chief Administrative Officer
Amanda Dyer
The City of Timmins’ extreme cold weather alert will continue for Wednesday, January 17, 2024. Temperatures are expected to drop to -36 overnight (inclusive of wind chill). Risk of frostbite.
Exposure to extreme cold temperatures can cause serious and sometimes even life-threatening health problems, such as frostbite and hypothermia. 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
The City of Timmins’ extreme cold weather alert will continue for Monday, January 15, 2024. Temperatures are expected to drop to -32 overnight (inclusive of wind chill). Risk of frostbite.
Exposure to extreme cold temperatures can cause serious and sometimes even life-threatening health problems, such as frostbite and hypothermia. 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 January 14 to 18, 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 January 14, Starting 9:00 pm:
Timmins: Downtown BIA – Spruce (Sixth to Kirby), Pine (Sixth to Kirby), Cedar (Sixth to First).
Monday January 15, Starting 9:00 pm:
Timmins: Downtown BIA – Third, Second, Balsam (Fifth to First).
Tuesday January 16, Starting 9:00 pm:
Downtown South Porcupine: Bruce (Legion to Lakeview), Golden (Legion to Evans), Main (Strachan to Shamrock), Crawford (Golden to Shamrock), Powell (Legion to Crawford).
Wednesday January 17, Starting 9:00 pm:
Timmins: Downtown BIA – Birch (Fifth to First), Maple (Fifth to Second), Elm (Fifth to Second).
Daytime Snow Removal 7:30 am to 4:00 pm:
From January 15 to January 19, 2024, the Public Works Department wishes to inform the public that crews will be doing snow removal in the areas listed below.
Monday January 15, Starting 7:30 am:
Timmins South: Elm (Second to Dead End), Maple (Second to Dead End), Birch (First to Ogden).
Schumacher: Father Costello, Croatia (To Boundary), Grant, Vipond.
Tuesday January 16, Starting 7:30 am:
Timmins North: Fifth (Cedar to Mountjoy), Cedar (Fifth to Jubilee), Balsam (Fifth to Dead End).
Schumacher: Dwyer, Les Hall, Hollinger, Fourth (to Boundary), Boundary.
Wednesday January 17, Starting 7:30 am:
Timmins South: First (Mountjoy to Pine), Balsam (First to Ogden), Cedar (Kirby to Ogden).
South Porcupine: Bloor, Shamrock, Dome.
Thursday January 18, Starting 7:30 am:
Timmins North: Cherry (Seventh to Eighth), Cherry (Murdock to Empire), Cherry (Eighth to Dead End), Murdock, Empire.
Schumacher: Templeton, Battochio, Aura Lake, Lions Crest, Croatia (Brundy).
Friday January 19, 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’ extreme cold weather alert will continue for Saturday, January 13 and Sunday, January 14, 2024. Temperatures are expected to stay below -25 overnight (inclusive of wind chill) for the weekend. Risk of frostbite.
Exposure to extreme cold temperatures can cause serious and sometimes even life-threatening health problems, such as frostbite and hypothermia. 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
The City of Timmins has issued an extreme cold weather alert for Thursday, January 11 and Friday, January 12, 2024. Temperatures are expected to drop to -32 overnight on Thursday (inclusive of wind chill), with cold weather continuing through Friday. Risk of frostbite.
Exposure to extreme cold temperatures can cause serious and sometimes even life-threatening health problems, such as frostbite and hypothermia. 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
The City of Timmins has issued an extreme cold weather alert for Monday, January 08, 2024. Temperatures are expected to drop to -26 overnight (inclusive of wind chill).
Exposure to extreme cold temperatures can cause serious and sometimes even life-threatening health problems, such as frostbite and hypothermia. 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
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