Author: Mohsin Abbas

By: Mike Su, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

The Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent is set to undergo a major upgrade and expansion, doubling its size and introducing much-needed transformation in the care for children with physical, developmental, and communication challenges.

 

When the centre was built in 1984, it was designed for a much smaller community. Today, the demand is overwhelming. The facility currently serves more than 5,000 patients, with over 1,000 children on the waitlist. The region has outgrown the old building, and this expansion comes at a crucial time.

 

The new 58,000-square-foot facility, slated to open in early 2026, promises to create a welcoming, inclusive space that meets the growing demand for services and sets a new standard for accessibility and care.

 

Designed by Montgomery Sisam Architects, the core concept focuses on inclusivity, a connection to nature, and strengthening community bonds. Shannon Wiley, principal architect at Montgomery Sisam Architects, emphasized that the inclusive design goes beyond accessibility standards, ensuring the building accommodates the unique needs of all users. The spaces are adaptable, offering a sense of agency and choice for children and their families. This flexibility is reflected in the universal design of features such as gender-inclusive change rooms and private, accessible cubicles that promote safety and comfort.

 

Wiley said that upon entering the new facility, it won’t feel like a hospital or institutional building. “It’s designed to feel like home,” she said. “We want to understand that everyone experiences the world differently. There are different ways to encourage a sense of agency through design, flexibility of choice, and creating a building adaptable to different needs. It’s a place where kids and families can feel safe, supported, and connected to nature.”

 

The building design connects indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly. Therapeutic gardens, a playground, and outdoor therapy areas will make it easier for children to benefit from nature as part of their treatment.

 

Other features include sheltered parking for children with mobility challenges and welcoming lobby spaces for calming or interactive experiences. The indoor therapy pool will feature specialized systems to help children in wheelchairs transition easily into the water.

 

Mike Genge, president of the Children’s Treatment Centre Foundation, said the new centre will meet the needs of children with physical, developmental, and communication challenges.

 

“This building is really a home,” Genge said. “The kids that come here don’t get judged. They come in with disabilities, and this is their space, a home where they feel comfortable, welcomed, and supported.”

 

The facility will also include a Family Resource Centre where parents and caregivers can connect, share experiences, and access reliable information. Social and recreational spaces, along with youth programs like cooking classes, will support a holistic approach to care. Parents will benefit from thoughtful design features such as a kitchenette in the waiting area, where they can prepare food or work between appointments.

 

“Parents often need accurate information and a place to share experiences with others going through similar challenges,” Genge said. “This centre is designed to provide that, alongside critical respite services.”

 

Other services will include speech-language pathology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, audiology, Ontario Autism Programme services, and more. One notable addition is the Snoezelen room, a multi-sensory space that helps children with autism regulate their emotions. Accompanied by a new music therapy program and other recreational activities, the room will include calming elements like lights, water features, and soothing sounds, offering kids a safe space to slow down and relax.

 

In addition to serving the community, the new building will be environmentally friendly. It will feature geothermal heating, energy-efficient windows, and durable materials that require minimal maintenance. The overall layout also leaves room for future growth. Sitting on six acres of land, the facility will have space for expansion as the community’s needs continue to evolve.

 

“The building is designed to last,” Wiley said. “We’ve chosen materials that will still look great 20 years from now, and the geothermal system will help keep operational costs low.”

 

The centre’s development has been a collaborative effort, with more than $10 million raised locally to complement provincial funding.

 

“This project shows how much Chatham-Kent cares about its kids,” Genge said. “The community has stepped up in a big way, and that support has made all the difference.”

 

The staff and families who use the centre have been deeply involved in the planning process. From attending design meetings to providing feedback on layouts, their input has helped shape a facility that truly meets the needs of the people it serves.

 

“This isn’t just a building to them, it’s their second home,” Genge said. “Their dedication and input made it clear how personal this project is to everyone involved.”

 

Construction is well underway, and if all goes as planned, the facility will open its doors in spring 2026. Steel frames are already rising on the six-acre site, and the foundation is in place.

Families are counting down the days until the new centre opens, knowing it will provide better access to care, shorter wait times, and a sense of community.

 

By: Mike Su, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

Farm Lending Canada (FLC) has announced a new commercial arrangement with BMO to support its AgriRoots Diversified Lending Fund LP, a fund that manages a portfolio of real estate-secured mortgages with a focus on agricultural assets.

“We’re thrilled that BMO has joined our network of supporters who have placed their trust in our fund and our goal to support Canadian agriculture by providing options for securing alternative capital for farms and agri-businesses,” Robb Nelson, CEO of Farm Lending Canada, said in a release.

“Having versatile and sustainable financing choices is critical for a healthy future for Canadian farmers,” Nelson said.

FLC manages the AgriRoots Diversified Lending Fund LP, an exempt market investment available to accredited and eligible investors through the AgriRoots Diversified Lending Trust. Investors can participate in both registered and non-registered funds.

“There are tremendous opportunities for investors in the Canadian agricultural space,” Nelson added. “At the same time, you are helping to serve growth and expansion in one of Canada’s most important sectors.”

The partnership with BMO is expected to significantly expand the fund’s footprint in the Canadian alternative agricultural mortgage market in 2025, supporting FLC’s mission to promote sustainability and long-term growth for farmers transitioning to conventional lending facilities.

Founded in 2019, Farm Lending Canada provides tailored mortgage solutions to Canadian farmers and supports rural communities and agricultural businesses nationwide.

BMO Financial Group, North America’s eighth-largest bank by assets, reported total assets of $1.41 trillion as of Oct. 31, 2024. With a 200-year history, BMO serves more than 13 million customers in Canada, the United States and selected global markets, offering a comprehensive range of banking and investment services.

By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

Jack Manidokaa Bradley’s journey reflects his deep connection to his Anishinaabe heritage and his dedication to creating positive change within his community. From his early days as a student with the Lambton Kent District School Board to his current role with Atlohsa Family Healing Services and a proud graduate of John McGregor Secondary School, Jack has forged an academic and professional path that continues to leave a meaningful impact on Indigenous communities.

Currently, he works with Atlohsa Family Healing Services as part of the Giwetashkad Indigenous Homelessness Strategic Plan, an initiative addressing the urgent issue of Indigenous homelessness in London, Ontario. Although Indigenous people represent only 2.6% of the city’s population, they account for 30% of its homeless population. Grounded in community-driven, Indigenous-led, and culture-based engagement, the Giwetashkad Plan prioritizes Indigenous experiences, local knowledge, harm reduction, and cultural practices. Jack supports this transformative approach by presenting solutions rooted in Indigenous ways of knowing and leadership.

Jack had also a role at Health Canada as a Policy Analyst in the Office of Indigenous Affairs and Engagement. There, he conducted policy research, collaborated with national Indigenous organizations, and contributed to ministerial briefings. However, Jack ultimately left the federal environment, seeking a more direct impact through work with an Indigenous-led organization.

Jack’s academic achievements include an Honours Specialization in English Language & Literature from Western University, where he focused his thesis on Niizh-Manidoowag (Two-Spirited) Indigenous identities in modern Turtle Island literature. His studies also explored Critical Race Theory, Feminist Theory, Environmental Justice, and Indigenous Literatures. As the first in his family to attend university, Jack overcame significant barriers, earning the prestigious Beryl Ivey Scholarship, valued at $72,000. He also served as President of the Arts & Humanities Students’ Council, showcasing his leadership and advocacy skills.

Jack’s creative talents extend to the arts. He is an emerging fashion photographer and visual artist. From January 13 to February 14, 2025, his work will be featured in the Red Visions exhibit at Casa Loma in Toronto, which celebrates Indigenous heritage and identity. Jack’s featured projects blend traditional storytelling with modern techniques, including Ojibwe Odyssey, Medicine Wheel, and Sky Woman. His Sky Woman series highlights collaborative efforts with fellow First Nations creatives, uplifting diverse Indigenous narratives through visual expression.

Jack credits his success to key mentors at John McGregor Secondary School, including Mme. Sandra Rodriguez, who fostered the Gender & Sexuality Alliance, and Ms. Regan, who encouraged him to pursue the Western National Scholarship. Teachers Jenn McQuade, Karen Locke, and Devin Pearson significantly influenced his interests and academic growth. Looking ahead, Jack plans to pursue further education through McMaster University’s Indigenous Studies Master’s program, aiming to integrate theory with community practice.

Jack Manidokaa Bradley exemplifies the power of blending culture, advocacy, and art to drive meaningful change, making a profound difference in Indigenous communities and the broader Canadian landscape.

By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

The Chatham Capitol Theatre will host a dynamic and powerful performance by YAMATO: The Drummers of Japan on Jan. 18. The acclaimed Taiko troupe will bring its new show, Hito no Chikara—The Power of Human Strength, to the stage. Known for its electrifying energy and extraordinary precision, YAMATO has captivated nearly eight million people worldwide and performed more than 4,500 times in its 32-year history.

In every program, the drummers play 35 to 40 different Japanese drums. “YAMATO believes that the drumbeat, like the heartbeat, is the very pulse of life and the epitome of the Japanese spirit,” said Masa Ogawa, YAMATO’s founder and artistic director.

Based in Asuka-mura, Nara Prefecture—regarded as the birthplace of Japanese culture—the troupe embodies the spirit of its motto: “We go everywhere when somebody needs YAMATO! Bringing energy to people living in the world!”

The centrepiece of their performances is the legendary Odaiko drum, carved from a 400-year-old tree. Measuring approximately two metres in diameter and weighing 500 kilograms, the Odaiko is just one of more than 40 drums that form the ensemble’s rich soundscape.

The group’s new program, Hito no Chikara—The Power of Human Strength, explores humanity’s complex and evolving relationship with technology and artificial intelligence, weaving this theme into its signature “physical music.”

The word “performance” cannot fully describe YAMATO’s Taiko work. They create a sensory experience that immerses the audience in sound, emotion, and rhythm. Renowned for blending intensity with delicacy, the troupe takes audiences on a journey that is as emotional as it is exhilarating.

The physicality of the drumming is as awe-inspiring as the music itself. Members of YAMATO undergo rigorous training to perform on these massive instruments, pushing their bodies to their limits. The acoustic pressure generated during their shows is extraordinary, leaving audiences both breathless and deeply moved. Audience participation is a key element of YAMATO’s performances.

Chatham residents and visitors alike will have the chance to witness this once-in-a-lifetime event, which will bring the spirit of Japan to life through the powerful sound of Taiko drums.

By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

In its fifth and final major announcement, the Bank of Canada (BoC) reduced its key interest rate from 3.75 percent to 3.25 percent to support the Canadian economy. This decision was announced after Canada’s unemployment rate rose to 6.8 percent, the highest rate since 2015, excluding the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts had predicted a minor reduction, but the BoC took a more significant step and lowered the rate by 0.50 percent to stimulate growth and keep inflation within the target range.

After the rate cuts, consumer spending and housing activity have started to increase, offering some relief for Chatham-Kent residents, especially those in the housing market. With inflation hovering around the 2 percent mark and a softened economic outlook, many people in Chatham-Kent are now finding it easier to manage their mortgages and other household expenses.

The Chatham-Kent area residents see the interest rate cut as an opportunity to ease the financial burden of rising home prices and high living costs. Mark Johnson, who sold his property in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and purchased a home in Chatham-Kent, expressed some relief at the prospect of lower mortgage rates. “The high cost of living had become unbearable for him in the GTA,” said Johnson.

“The reduced interest rates have provided me with some relief. Now, I can easily manage my budget and daily affairs. Though this relief is minimal, my quality of life will improve. I may focus more on enjoying my life than just working to pay my mortgage,” he added.

While many in the area have welcomed the rate cut, some are still concerned about the pressures of inflation. Sarah Peterson, who has lived in Chatham-Kent for over a decade, said: “While I’m relieved a little bit that interest rates have lowered, I still feel that groceries and rent are a major burden on my budget. Though the rate cuts continue to have a positive effect, I think we still have a long way to go in managing our domestic budgets.”

“The recent interest rate cut by the Bank of Canada is certainly a positive step for Chatham-Kent’s housing market, and it’s encouraging to see many residents benefiting from more manageable mortgage payments. Lower rates provide relief for buyers, especially those who’ve made the decision to leave the high cost of living in the GTA for a more affordable life in Chatham-Kent,” said Jamie Bumbacco, a local realtor with Jump Realty.

For many, he believes this means more financial flexibility and an opportunity to settle into a community with lower living expenses, which can make a world of difference.

“While there’s still some concern about inflation, these rate cuts are a much-needed breath of fresh air for homeowners and those looking to enter the market. I anticipate we’ll see continued interest in Chatham-Kent, especially as more people look for stability and affordability in their housing costs,” Bumbacco added.

The BoC’s move to reduce its key interest rate by 50 basis points is part of an effort to encourage the economy. The BoC’s primary goal is to support growth while keeping inflation within the 1-3 percent target. As Canada faces challenges like rising rent and grocery prices, these rate cuts offer a small glimmer for Chatham-Kent’s homeowners, allowing them to better manage their finances.

The Bank of Canada’s next rate update is scheduled for 29 January, 2025.

By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

Tilbury-area residents are set to benefit from new energy efficiency programs launching this month, offering rebates for home upgrades. The Ontario government is rolling out two initiatives aimed at helping homeowners and small businesses improve energy efficiency and reduce utility costs.

One initiative, the Home Renovation Savings Program, will roll out Jan. 28. It offers up to 30 per cent rebates for energy-efficient home upgrades, such as installing new windows, doors, insulation, smart thermostats, heat pumps, and solar panels.

This program is a game-changer for Chatham-Kent resident John Dawson, who lives in Tilbury area and owns a 109-year-old home.

“My great-grandfather built this home, which has been in my family for generations. Since this home is airy and big, keeping it warm in the winter is costly. With the rebates, I plan to insulate the walls and upgrade the windows to make the home more energy-efficient. After the provincial government announced the rebate, people like me are happy to invest in our heritage homes,” Dawson said.

The program will also bring relief to residents facing financial challenges. Bhupinder Kumar, a Chatham-based taxi driver, expressed his gratitude.

“This relief by the government means a lot to me. I live paycheque to paycheque with three school-aged kids, and the rebates will help me afford improvements like a heat pump to save on my electricity bills. This program allows people like me to improve basic things in our homes to stay warm in this chilly weather. It’s about survival for many of us,” he said.

The province is also expanding its Peak Perks program to small businesses. It offers incentives such as a $75 virtual prepaid credit card for each eligible smart thermostat connected to a central air conditioning system or heat pump. Business owners will receive an additional $20 each year they remain in the program.

Energy Minister Stephen Lecce emphasized that the Home Renovation Savings Program will provide immediate and long-term savings.

“A family upgrading their insulation, windows, and doors could receive a rebate of up to $8,900 for insulation and $100 for every door and window replaced,” Lecce said.

For larger energy-efficient upgrades, the rebates are even more significant.

“Take, for example, a homeowner investing $15,000 in a new heat pump. They could see a $4,500 rebate upfront while benefiting from ongoing savings of up to 50 per cent on the heating portion of their electricity bill,” Lecce said.

The government has committed approximately $900 million annually for the next 12 years to energy efficiency initiatives, a significant increase from the $342 million average annual spending over the past 13 years. The Home Renovation Savings Program alone will cost about $60 million annually during its initial phase, while the new Peak Perks program for small businesses will require approximately $18 million annually.

Residents of Chatham-Kent and surrounding areas are hopeful these changes will enhance energy efficiency, reduce utility costs, and provide financial relief for households and small businesses.

By: Muhammad Aamir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

The Chatham-Kent Police have made significant strides in crime prevention and enforcement, with notable arrests, drug and weapons seizures, and community initiatives in recent days. A significant drug investigation led to the seizure of $13,000 worth of drugs, firearms, and ammunition. At the same time, collaborative efforts with other law enforcement agencies resulted in arrests related to theft, mischief, and outstanding warrants. The department also celebrated Crime Stoppers’ success in 2024 with a ceremonial flag-raising.

POLICE SEIZE DRUGS, WEAPONS IN MAJOR INVESTIGATION

The Chatham-Kent Police Service Intelligence Unit, with assistance from the Emergency Response Team, arrested a 42-year-old man during a traffic stop related to a drug investigation. The stop involved a black Volkswagen Tiguan SUV, and officers executed a previously obtained search warrant.

Inside the vehicle, police discovered a loaded .40 calibre Glock handgun, 129 grams of cocaine, six oxycodone tablets, and a digital scale.

The Intelligence Unit then executed a search warrant at the man’s residence on Pearl Crescent in Chatham. During the search of the home, officers found a loaded .22 calibre revolver handgun, 8 grams of methamphetamine, 0.7 grams of fentanyl, 1.4 grams of cocaine, 15 codeine tablets, 26 clonazepam tablets, 47 tabs of lysergic acid, debt lists, and numerous rounds of ammunition. The total street value of the drugs seized is estimated at $13,000. The man was arrested and remains in custody pending a bail hearing.

ARRESTS AND WARRANT CASES

The police made seven arrests, including individuals wanted on outstanding warrants, failure to comply, and domestic-related offences.

One case involved the Toronto Police Service notifying CKPS about a 31-year-old Brampton man in custody for an endorsed warrant for theft and possession under $5,000. The man was released with a court date under Form 10 provisions.

HIGHWAY TRAFFIC ACT VIOLATION

In Wallaceburg, officers conducted a traffic stop on Lisgar Street for a Highway Traffic Act (HTA) infraction. During the stop, a 26-year-old male was found breaching the curfew condition of his release order. The individual, who already faces three outstanding matters, was arrested and held for a bail hearing. The police remain committed to community safety and encourage anyone with information about ongoing investigations to contact them.

MAN ARRESTED FOR TRESPASSING AND MISCHIEF

A 31-year-old male has been arrested for mischief following repeated incidents of trespassing at a discount retail store on Grand Avenue West in Chatham.

The arrest came after three calls to police regarding ongoing issues with the individual at the location. The store’s owner provided a statement supporting charges against the suspect. Further investigation revealed the man was wanted under a Reasonable and Probable Grounds (RPG) warrant for failing to attend court. He was taken into custody and held for a bail hearing. Authorities are working closely with the business to address the recurring issues at the store.

CK CRIME STOPPERS MARKS SUCCESSFUL 2024

Chatham-Kent Crime Stoppers had a productive year in 2024, assisting local police and government agencies in seizing over $170,000 worth of illicit drugs and stolen property and contributing to 43 charges being laid.

A flag-raising ceremony was held at Chatham-Kent City Hall to commemorate the program’s ongoing success. The event highlighted Crime Stoppers’ nearly 40 years of dedicated service in supporting the Chatham-Kent Police Service in its efforts to combat crime.

Crime Stoppers board president Angie Shreve, program coordinator Erica McIntosh, and Inspector Mathew Stezycki were in attendance. The event showcased the continued collaboration between the community and law enforcement to ensure public safety.

WANTED SUSPECT ARRESTED

A 33-year-old male wanted for home invasion and robbery in Windsor was apprehended by police after being located in Wallaceburg.

The Repeat Offender Parole Enforcement (ROPE) Squad received information that the suspect, believed to own a sawed-off shotgun, was hiding at a property on Old Glass Road. After several unsuccessful callout attempts, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) initiated the application for a Feeney Warrant to enter the premises.

ROPE called the Chatham-Kent Police Service’s Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) and Police Dog Service (PDS) to execute the warrant. CIRT and PDS secured the area containing the property to ensure public safety.

ROPE officers contacted the suspect hiding in a recreational vehicle (RV) on the property. The suspect was arrested without incident.

Following the arrest, Chatham-Kent police coordinated with Windsor police officers to facilitate the suspect’s transfer to Windsor Police Station, where he will face home invasion and robbery charges.

Authorities commend the collaboration between ROPE, OPP, and Chatham-Kent Police in ensuring a safe and efficient resolution to the case.

By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

In response to rising housing challenges, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent is conducting a Housing Needs Assessment to better understand the needs and experiences of residents, including those in Tilbury. The assessment aims to identify strategies to address housing gaps and affordability issues, with the findings set to guide future policies and initiatives that will improve housing accessibility, quality, and overall living conditions across the region.

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent is inviting residents to participate in a confidential and anonymous online survey as part of an ongoing Housing Needs Assessment. The survey, which is available until January 26, aims to gather input on the housing needs and affordability challenges facing residents throughout Chatham-Kent.

Tilbury is experiencing notable housing challenges. The local housing market has seen a significant increase in property prices, making homeownership less accessible for many residents. This trend has been particularly challenging for younger adults and seniors seeking affordable housing options. Additionally, the demand for rental properties has outpaced supply, leading to higher rents and increased competition among potential tenants.

“As a long-time resident of Tilbury, I’ve noticed the rising challenges in the housing market firsthand. Property prices have skyrocketed, making it incredibly difficult for younger adults, like my children, to afford homes in the area. It’s also concerning to see seniors struggle with finding affordable housing options. With the demand for rental properties surpassing supply, rents have gone up, and it’s becoming increasingly difficult for families and individuals to find suitable living spaces. I’m hopeful that the upcoming Housing Needs Assessment will bring attention to these issues and help us find solutions to make housing more accessible and affordable for everyone in Tilbury,” said Karen Johnson, a Tilbury West resident, in an interview with the Tilbury Times.

The Housing Needs Assessment will provide a detailed analysis of housing requirements and identify strategies to address housing gaps in the region. It will also evaluate the specific needs of various sub-populations, including younger adults, seniors, the unhoused, individuals needing supportive or assisted living, and those seeking non-market housing solutions.

“The Housing Needs Assessment is an important opportunity for us,” said Ray Harper, Director of Housing Development. “The report will help Council understand the housing landscape across Chatham-Kent and guide future housing initiatives using current data. Everyone’s input is valuable and appreciated.”

Residents are encouraged to share their experiences and thoughts on their current housing situation in the municipality. The survey is available through the Let’s Talk Chatham-Kent website and will be open until January 26, 2025. The findings will be presented to Council in mid-March 2025.

For more information or to complete the survey, visit www.letstalkchatham-kent.ca/housing-needs.

By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

A new $172-million battery storage project near Tilbury is expected to help meet Ontario’s growing electricity needs and create more than 120 local jobs.

Boralex Inc. and its partner, Walpole Island First Nation, have announced the successful closing of $172 million in financing for the development of the Tilbury Battery Storage project in Lakeshore. The 80 MW / 320 MWh energy storage facility is expected to be operational by the fourth quarter of 2025.

The financing package, secured through a banking syndicate consisting of the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC), Fédération des Caisses Desjardins du Québec, and the Royal Bank of Canada, includes a $120 million construction loan that will convert into a five-year term loan with a 20-year amortization period after the project’s commercial launch. Additionally, a $45 million bridge loan will finance investment tax credits (ITC) to which the project is eligible, and a $7 million letter of credit facility has also been included.

“Today’s financing announcement is a milestone for the Tilbury Battery Storage project, reinforcing our commitment to offering sustainable and innovative energy solutions,” said Bruno Guilmette, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer at Boralex. “I would like to salute the exceptional work of our teams and financial partners. This financing testifies to the company’s financial strength and the lenders’ confidence in a structured, promising project.”

The government launched the largest battery procurement framework in Canadian history early last year, securing nearly 3,000 megawatts of storage capacity to expand Ontario’s clean, reliable, and affordable energy grid. The project was awarded in 2023 as part of the government’s first procurement for new clean energy storage resources and is expected to be completed by late 2025.

Leela Thomas, Chief of Walpole Island First Nation, expressed optimism about the project’s development: “We are pleased to reach this major milestone for the Tilbury Battery Storage project and our community. We look forward to the continued development of this site and thank Boralex for their commitment to being a sustainable partner of the Walpole Island First Nation.”

The Independent Electricity System Operator says Ontario will need at least 60 per cent more energy over the next 25 years. To meet this growing demand, battery storage facilities will store clean power and deploy it as needed, further advancing the province’s clean energy advantage.

Legal and financial partners played a crucial role in facilitating the financing. Plan A Capital Inc. acted as financial advisor, while Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP, Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP, and Mshkawzi Law LLP provided legal counsel for the borrower, lenders, and Walpole Island First Nation, respectively.

The Tilbury Battery Storage project marks another step in Boralex’s expansion in Ontario, following recent financing for the Hagersville storage site. These initiatives further cement the company’s role as a leader in energy storage within Canada.

Boralex highlighted its ongoing strategy of fostering partnerships with local Indigenous communities as a core element of its mission to deliver clean energy solutions.

By: Muhammad Aamir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

The Chatham-Kent Police Service is asking for the public’s assistance in locating a missing 27-year-old female.

Taiylor Whiteye was last seen in the area of Dufferin Ave. in Wallaceburg on Jan. 4, 2025, at approximately 11:30 p.m. She was reported missing early the next morning, at approximately 4:40 a.m.

Taiylor is described as an Indigenous female, approximately 5’7″ in height with a slender build, long black hair, and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a black t-shirt, black Lululemon tights, and possibly beige UGG boots.

The Chatham-Kent Police Service is concerned for Taiylor’s well-being and is urging anyone with information about her whereabouts to come forward.

Anyone who has seen Taiylor or has information that could assist in this investigation is urged to contact the Chatham-Kent Police Service immediately at 519-352-1234.Missing Person: Taiylor Whiteye