Author: Mohsin Abbas

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

CKTransit has announced adjustments to its fare structure, including phased-in fare increases that aim to balance the sustainability of public transit with affordability for riders. The new fares will take effect July 1, 2025.

Riders using a Cash Pass will receive discounts off the exact cash fare on all Ride CK services. The new fares are as follows: $2.28 for all Chatham urban services ($1.87 on Chatham’s fixed routes during off-peak hours), $2.28 for all Wallaceburg urban services, and $4.28 for all inter-urban routes.

The 30-Day Urban Pass will increase to $82.45 for adults, and to $64.78 for seniors (65+) and students (ages 6–17). This pass is valid on all Ride CK Chatham and Wallaceburg urban services, including specialized transit.

The 30-Day Urban Pass for low-income residents under the Affordable Bus Pass Program will rise to $41.23. This pass is also accepted on all Ride CK Chatham and Wallaceburg urban services, including specialized transit.

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

The Chatham-Kent Community Leaders Cabinet has announced the graduation of the first cohort from the Leadership-Chatham-Kent Program, a leadership development initiative aimed at inspiring and equipping emerging leaders to make a lasting impact in their community.

Launched on October 2, 2024, the nine-month program brought together a diverse group of participants for one full day of learning each month. The program culminated in a graduation ceremony on June 4, 2025, marking a significant milestone in community leadership.

The program was developed by the Chatham-Kent Leaders’ Cabinet in collaboration with the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and supported by the Chatham-Kent Community Foundation. It focused on unlocking leadership potential and building the skills necessary to drive meaningful change across the Municipality.

Participants came from a wide range of sectors, including education, healthcare, nonprofit, construction, post-secondary institutions, and municipal services, reflecting the diversity and collaborative spirit of Chatham-Kent.

A key element of the program was the creation of legacy projects—community initiatives designed and led by participants to create lasting, positive change. These projects not only demonstrated the participants’ commitment to civic engagement but also delivered tangible benefits to residents across Chatham-Kent.

“This program is about more than leadership—it’s about building a stronger, more connected community,” said Michael Duben, CAO of Chatham-Kent. “We are incredibly proud of our graduates and the legacy they are already creating.”

The Municipality looks forward to continuing the program in the years ahead, nurturing a new generation of leaders dedicated to shaping a vibrant, inclusive, and resilient future for all.

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

Heat warning issued for Chatham-Kent as first major wave of season begins this weekend

Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for Chatham-Kent starting this weekend, marking the first significant heat wave of the season. Forecasters are warning of dangerously high temperatures and humidity expected to persist into next week.

In extreme heat, the body can struggle to cool itself, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Symptoms may include red or hot skin, dizziness, fainting, nausea, rapid heartbeat, extreme thirst, and decreased urination. Health officials urge anyone experiencing these symptoms to move to a cool or shaded place, drink water, and rest—and to contact a health provider, friend, or family member.

“Heat stroke is a medical emergency,” the municipality stated in a release. “Call 911 if someone has a high body temperature, is confused, or loses consciousness.” While awaiting help, officials recommend cooling the person with cold water, fans, or ice packs.

Those at greatest risk include older adults, young children, people with chronic illnesses, and those without air conditioning. Even healthy individuals may be at risk if they engage in strenuous outdoor activity without taking proper precautions.

To prevent heat-related illness, residents are advised to:

Stay hydrated, drinking water regularly

Avoid strenuous activity between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Seek air-conditioned spaces, such as community centres or libraries

Check on vulnerable neighbours, friends, and family

Wear lightweight, loose clothing and avoid using ovens or heavy meals

Keep blinds closed during peak heat hours

Take cool showers or use wet towels on skin

The use of fans alone may not be effective, especially in extreme conditions. People without adequate shelter, water, or food face increased vulnerability, and are encouraged to call the Homeless Response Line at 519-354-6628, available 24/7.

Cooling spaces are available at municipal centres and public libraries. For locations and hours of operation, visit:

Municipal Services

Library Branch Info

For more updates, follow local alerts and visit weather.gc.ca.

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

Police responded to more than 800 calls and made over a dozen arrests during a busy stretch from June 12 to 15, with officers dealing with several high-profile incidents including drug seizures, assaults, and probation violations.

Between Friday and Sunday, the Chatham-Kent Police Service handled 617 calls for service, including 182 emergency transfers through 911 dispatch. Officers laid 13 arrests across multiple investigations.

A 28-year-old Chatham man is facing charges of obstructing and assaulting a peace officer after police say he threw an object at an officer during an unrelated arrest on Queen Street on June 13. The officer sustained minor injuries. The man fled on foot but was quickly apprehended. He was released with conditions and is scheduled to appear in court July 22.

The next day, officers responded to a call about a man possibly breaking into a trailer on Woods Street in Chatham. Police say the 46-year-old suspect provided a false name, though further investigation revealed he had permission to be on the property. The man was wanted on warrants related to weapons offences and court absences. He was charged with two counts of obstructing police and remains in custody pending a bail hearing.

On Sunday, officers responded to a property dispute in Chatham that resulted in an assault charge. Police say a 63-year-old man was struck above the eye by a 50-year-old woman during a confrontation. The man did not require medical attention. The woman was arrested at the scene and released with a court date set for July 24.

Earlier in the week, police made additional arrests connected to drug trafficking and weapons investigations.

On June 12, a 32-year-old man was arrested following a search warrant related to a road rage incident in May. Officers reportedly seized drugs, prohibited weapons and cash. The man was released with a court date of July 24.

A 29-year-old woman from Chatham later turned herself in and was charged as a co-accused in the same case. She faces multiple trafficking and weapons charges and is scheduled to appear in court July 17.

Also on June 12, a 45-year-old Wallaceburg man was arrested for allegedly breaching probation orders by sending threatening communications. He remains in custody and was scheduled for a video court appearance on June 13.

In a separate June 11 drug investigation, Chatham-Kent police executed a Controlled Drugs and Substances Act search warrant at a Park Street home. Five individuals—two men and three women, all from Chatham—were arrested after officers seized fentanyl, methamphetamine, hydromorphone, and cocaine worth an estimated $81,000.

Weapons including BB guns, a conductive energy weapon, and a baton were also recovered. One of the suspects faces additional charges related to a weapons prohibition.

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

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has opened applications for its 2026–2029 Together CK Core Grant Program, offering non-profit and charitable organizations a chance to secure long-term operational and program funding to help meet community needs and build organizational capacity.

Applications are being accepted until Monday, June 30, 2025, at noon, for the four-year grant cycle. The program supports Chatham-Kent-based non-profit corporations and registered Canadian charities through a competitive process. Successful applicants will receive funding to help deliver programs and services aligned with Chatham-Kent council’s term priorities, which include service excellence, community well-being, environmental sustainability and growth.

“Past organizations supported through Together CK Core Grants include senior and youth centres, local youth camps, music and arts groups, and social services organizations,” said Peter Sulman, co-ordinator of community grants with Community Culture and Connections.

“This stream is distinct from the annual Together CK Events and Community Projects streams, which are designed for short-term or one-time initiatives.”

Sulman said the Core Grant program is a strategic tool used to invest in initiatives that demonstrate alignment with municipal priorities and contribute positively to the community.

“The Core Grant Program uses council term priorities as a framework,” he said.

“It’s important that applicants clearly show how their organization’s services align with these goals. It strengthens the application and better illustrates the community impact of their work.”

The Core Grant stream remains unchanged in terms of eligibility and guidelines, though Sulman emphasized a key distinction: only incorporated non-profits or registered charities are eligible, unlike the more flexible requirements for annual project-based grants.

Virtual information sessions about the program were held in May.

Sulman also had advice for smaller or newer organizations in Chatham-Kent. He noted that neither size nor longevity affects an organization’s ability to qualify for Core Grant funding.

“We encourage all applicants to highlight the real impact their work has on the lives of Chatham-Kent residents,” he said.

“Using data, testimonials and community feedback to demonstrate need is incredibly helpful. Emphasizing how their work addresses gaps or unrecognized needs is key.”

The Together CK Core Grant program has long been instrumental in enabling community groups to grow their services and reach, including in smaller communities like Tilbury.

“This funding is open to all eligible organizations, regardless of where they’re located in the municipality,” Sulman said.

“The goal is to support the incredible efforts of local volunteers and service providers who are making a difference in every corner of Chatham-Kent.”

Applications and full funding guidelines are available online at letstalkchatham-kent.ca/togetherck-coregrants.

Applicants who need support or accommodations to complete the application process can call 519-360-1998 or email TogetherCK@Chatham-Kent.ca.

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

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent says it remains confident in its ability to continue supplying safe drinking water to Tilbury residents, despite ongoing reliance on a temporary water system in Wheatley following a fire at the Wheatley Water Treatment Plant.

Since the September 2023 blaze forced the shutdown of the facility, the Chatham-Kent Public Utilities Commission has been operating a temporary water treatment system in Wheatley and implemented outdoor water restrictions to manage supply.

“With the current extra demand on the Wheatley water system, we are experiencing a critically low amount of water in our reservoirs and water towers and are asking all customers to eliminate all outdoor water usage,” Karen Burgess, director of operations for water and wastewater, said in an April 25 statement.

The restrictions — which included a ban on lawn watering, washing vehicles, filling pools and outdoor construction — were lifted on May 13 for customers in both Wheatley and Tilbury.

However, a lawn watering restriction remains in place and officials are asking residents to continue complying voluntarily.

Burgess told the Tilbury Times Reporter the quality of drinking water has not been affected, and that the PUC continues to meet all provincial guidelines for treatment, disinfection and monitoring while the temporary system is in operation.

If the rebuild of the Wheatley plant — targeted for completion by August — is delayed, the municipality says contingency plans are in place to ensure a continued water supply for Tilbury.

“We will continue to utilize the temporary water treatment system that has been set up in Wheatley,” Burgess said.

“As a contingency, we can acquire water from the South Chatham-Kent Water Treatment Plant in Blenheim, along with water from the Leamington distribution system. Hauling water from the Chatham Drinking Water System to Tilbury has also been used in the past.”

She said the municipality is confident its current infrastructure and emergency supply plans will maintain safe and stable water service for the community.

Updates from the CK PUC are available on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CKPUC.

By: Shazia Nazir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

Crews are continuing to remove debris and stabilize the area at 47 and 49 Queen St. N. in Tilbury as the Municipality of Chatham-Kent responds to ongoing safety concerns and public speculation about the site.

The municipality says a large portion of the debris has already been cleared and that building permits have been issued. Structural work is expected to begin soon.

Paul Lacina, director of building development services and chief building official for the municipality, told the Tilbury Times Reporter in a statement that representatives for the neighbouring properties at 45 and 55 Queen St. N. have submitted plans to address structural issues identified during the demolition of 47 and 49.

Fencing remains in place, and the sidewalk along Queen Street is open and safe for public use. Officials continue to monitor site conditions to ensure public safety.

Structural issues at the site first surfaced in 2022, when complaints were filed about a collapsing building. A structural engineer hired by the municipality later confirmed a partially collapsed roof and other major failures at 47 and 49 Queen St. N., deeming the buildings unsafe and unfit for occupancy.

An order to remedy the unsafe conditions was issued, but when the property owner failed to complete the required repairs, demolition was ordered. During the process, engineers identified structural defects in the neighbouring buildings at 45 and 55 Queen St. N., prompting a pause in demolition work.

Stabilization efforts were required before demolition could continue. The municipality then issued additional orders to remedy and prohibit occupancy at the affected properties.

Lacina said property owners have since submitted work plans, allowing remediation to proceed.

“We appreciate the community’s cooperation and want to assure everyone that safety remains the top priority,” he said.

In an April 25 update to the public, municipal officials said they had been in contact with the owners’ insurer to confirm a plan to stabilize 45 and 55 Queen St. as soon as possible.

The municipality says that on Feb. 3, the insurer informed officials it had received an engineering report with recommendations for addressing structural concerns at the neighbouring properties.

Ward 1 Coun. Melissa Harrigan said delays in resolving the issues at 47 and 49 Queen St. have been frustrating, but efforts are ongoing.

“The length of time it has taken to resolve the issues at 47–49 Queen St. has been frustrating for all involved,” she said. “This update clarifies the current state and the complexities involved. I am actively working with staff to ask how Chatham-Kent can expedite a solution for our downtown.”

Chatham-Kent is urging all involved parties to move quickly, citing the high-profile location and ongoing concerns from residents and downtown business owners.

“There has been a lot of chatter on social media about the site,” said Armano Thomos, a local business owner.

The municipality is encouraging residents to visit its website for updates.

By: Shazia Nazir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

A Tilbury woman has been nationally recognized for over three decades of tireless advocacy and fundraising in the fight against cystic fibrosis.

Anne-Marie Beausoleil recently received the King Charles III Coronation Medal during a ceremony in Toronto, honoured for her outstanding contributions to her community and to Cystic Fibrosis Canada.

The medal is awarded to individuals who demonstrate integrity, inspire others, and make significant contributions to their region or country. Beausoleil said she was shocked and humbled when she learned of the recognition.

“It was a wonderful surprise,” she told the Tilbury Times Reporter. “It seemed surreal that a regular person like me and our family from the little town of Tilbury, Ontario would be chosen for such an honour.”

Beausoleil’s journey began in 1992 when her son Christopher was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at age five. At the time, the disease was not widely understood by the public, and information was scarce.

“With no internet, we relied on outdated printed information and the guidance of our CF care team in London,” she said. “All we could do to help was raise funds and awareness.”

Over the years, the Beausoleil family has raised more than $690,000 through local initiatives, including 19 annual yard sales, school events, speaking engagements, and 26 years co-captaining Team Mission: Possible for the Walk to Make Cystic Fibrosis History. Anne-Marie also served as chapter president and board member, coordinated the local parent support group, and co-founded Windsor’s Princess Ball—now known as The Royal Ball.

“Some of the most rewarding moments have come from the unwavering support of friends and family,” she said. “We’ve seen three new miracle drugs approved—helping 85 to 90 per cent of people with CF. Now, we wait for the one that will help our son, and others with rare mutations.”

Christopher, now 38, remains at the heart of the family’s advocacy. A passionate athlete and community leader, he has defied expectations, even after a difficult period of declining health in his twenties.

“He never let CF stop him,” Beausoleil said. “He’s always inspired us with his determination, whether it was through sports, coaching, or his work in the community.”

Today, Christopher is a Deputy Governor for District One Kinsmen, a community rep with Cystic Fibrosis Canada, Co-President of Tilbury Minor Soccer, and a coach. He also recently bowled a perfect 300 game.

“His drive, his ability to fight back and thrive, inspires everyone around him,” she said. “Not only did his decline in health push us to do more, but watching him overcome it changed us.”

Asked what advice she’d offer others trying to make an impact in their communities, Beausoleil emphasized perseverance.

“Never give up. Do what you can and always be willing to help,” she said. “Impact takes time—there’s a snowball effect. It takes years, but it’s worth it.”

With their latest efforts raising another $48,000 for this year’s walk, the Beausoleil family remains committed to the cause.

“The future is bright for people with cystic fibrosis,” she said. “We’ll keep going—until everyone living with CF has access to life-changing treatments. That’s the goal.”

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

Chatham-Kent police made a number of arrests over the past week in connection with incidents involving intimate partner violence, break and enters, assaults and bail violations.

On June 10, police were called to a Chatham home around 9 a.m. for a domestic disturbance. Officers found the front door open and visible damage throughout the residence. A 32-year-old woman reported being assaulted by a 45-year-old man who was under conditions from a prior incident prohibiting him from contacting her. He was arrested and charged with two counts of failing to comply with a release order, assault and break and enter to cause mischief. He remains in custody pending a bail hearing.

On June 9, a 32-year-old Chatham man turned himself in after being seen near a residence he was ordered to avoid. He was charged with breaching both his release and probation orders.

Also on June 9, a 32-year-old woman from Chatham was arrested for breaking into a home while the occupant was asleep and assaulting her. The homeowner managed to remove the intruder before police arrived. The woman was charged with break and enter and assault, and was released with a July 22 court date.

Over the weekend of June 6–8, a 30-year-old woman from Tilbury was charged with impaired driving after allegedly leaving Queen Street North and driving onto private property. Police say her blood alcohol readings were well over the legal limit. She is due in court July 7.

A 52-year-old Dresden man was arrested June 7 for violating the conditions of his house arrest. Police say he left his home without permission and was found to be in breach of a conditional sentence order that included GPS monitoring. He remains in custody pending a bail hearing.

On June 8, a 29-year-old Chatham man was charged with theft and mischief after he allegedly tried to steal a bicycle from a local business and was later caught spray-painting a wall nearby. He was released with a court date of July 14.

Earlier in the week, on June 5, an 18-year-old man from Tilbury was charged with assault after allegedly punching someone in the nose on Sunset Crescent. He was released with a July 9 court date.

That same day, a 32-year-old Chatham man was arrested for uttering threats after becoming aggressive when a co-worker accidentally damaged his vehicle.

Later that afternoon, a 34-year-old Chatham man was arrested for robbery and weapons charges after allegedly brandishing a knife while attempting to leave a department store without paying for merchandise. He was also charged with breaching multiple probation conditions and remains in custody.

Between June 5 and 10, Chatham-Kent police responded to over 1,400 calls for service, made dozens of property checks, and carried out foot patrols across the region. A total of 47 arrests were made during that span.

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

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent says it will continue to oppose a proposed landfill near Dresden despite the Ontario legislature’s recent passage of Bill 5 — legislation local officials say could pose significant risks to the community, other municipalities and Indigenous Nations across the province.

Council and staff say they remain committed to defending Dresden and will continue working with community and provincial partners.

Since York1 filed a notice with the Environmental Registry of Ontario in February 2024, revealing the scope of the project at 29831 Irish School Rd., the municipality, council and community members have raised concerns about its potential environmental and social impacts.

The introduction of Bill 5 has only heightened those concerns. Municipal officials say the legislation could undermine local governance, weaken environmental oversight and bypass meaningful consultation with Indigenous Nations.

Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff said the legislation does not reflect the values or needs of the municipality or the Dresden community.

“We are incredibly disappointed with the passing of this bill, but we are not giving up,” Canniff said. “Our community is resilient. We will continue to stand up and fight for Dresden, for our neighbouring communities, and for Indigenous Nations all over Ontario.

“We urge the Government of Ontario to reconsider the implications of this legislation, to listen to the concerns of communities like ours, and to respect the rights of all Ontarians — especially Indigenous communities, whose voices must not be ignored as stewards of the land.”

Ward 4 Coun. Rhonda Jubenville said she was “truly disheartened” by the passage of the bill, despite opposition from Chatham-Kent, Walpole Island First Nation and other Indigenous Peoples across Ontario.

“I am saddened that our elected MPPs didn’t stand against the portion of Bill 5 that threatened Dresden,” Jubenville said. “I am hopeful that they will still work with us to provide the best possible outcome in this unfortunate situation.”

Jubenville said her biggest concern is the elimination of a full environmental assessment for the landfill, a process she said would have ensured safeguards to protect people, land, farms, tributaries and air quality.

“I will continue to work with Chatham-Kent to oppose this project and give hope to a positive outcome in the end,” she said.

Fellow Ward 4 Coun. Jamie McGrail also voiced her disappointment, saying the municipality must now regroup.

“This is a difficult moment, but also time to regroup,” McGrail said. “I will be taking my direction through municipal administration, but make no mistake — I will continue to engage and fight alongside Dresden and the municipality as we move forward with the environmental compliance approval process.”