Author: Mohsin Abbas

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

Chatham-Kent council has unanimously reaffirmed its opposition to a proposed landfill near Dresden, following the passage of Ontario’s controversial Bill 5.

At a council meeting on June 10, elected officials directed municipal administration to continue efforts to oppose the York1 Environmental Waste Solutions Ltd. project at 29831 Irish School Rd.

The motion outlines a multi-pronged approach that includes engaging provincial and federal agencies, commissioning independent environmental and traffic impact studies, and formally requesting a federal review under the Impact Assessment Act.

Mayor Darrin Canniff said the message from residents has been overwhelmingly clear.

“The people of Dresden, Indigenous Nations, and our entire community have spoken with one voice: this project is not welcome in our community,” Canniff said.

“Council stands 100 per cent united in our opposition, and we will continue working to ensure that environmental protections, community health and Indigenous rights are not disregarded.”

Canniff added that while Chatham-Kent remains open to investment, the potential environmental and social consequences of the project are too great to ignore.

“Chatham-Kent has a history of being welcoming and open to investment, but this project will undoubtedly have negative impacts on our residents, infrastructure and environment, so we cannot support it,” he said.

The municipality’s formal position now includes a request for the Ontario government to reverse its decision to exempt the project from a full environmental assessment. Failing that, council is asking the province to require the same level of studies and public consultation as would occur under the Environmental Assessment Act.

These include studies on environmental, geotechnical, air quality, noise, socio-economic and traffic impacts, as well as formal engagement with affected Indigenous Nations.

Council also resolved to pursue a federal review under the Impact Assessment Act, which allows the federal government to assess the potential environmental and health effects of major projects that may have interprovincial, national or Indigenous implications.

The renewed opposition comes shortly after the Ontario government filed Ontario Regulation 284/24 on June 28, 2024, mandating a comprehensive environmental assessment for the landfill project before it can proceed.

Under this regulation, the proponent must identify potential impacts, propose mitigation measures and demonstrate meaningful public consultation before receiving approval from the minister and the lieutenant-governor in council.

According to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, a comprehensive environmental assessment for a project of this scale includes the submission of a detailed terms of reference, which outlines the scope of the assessment, consultation methods, proposed alternatives and rationale.

Once the terms of reference are approved, the proponent must conduct the full assessment, evaluating effects on groundwater, surface water, species at risk, air quality and climate change. It must also address socio-economic concerns such as traffic, noise, odour, agriculture and property values.

The assessment must consider impacts on the built and cultural environment, including Indigenous archaeological resources, land use compatibility and transportation networks. Public and Indigenous consultation is required at multiple stages, including public comment periods and opportunities for mediation or hearings.

The landfill proposal has sparked widespread concern across Chatham-Kent and beyond. Local residents and advocacy groups, including Indigenous communities, have expressed alarm over potential health risks, traffic increases, groundwater contamination and the broader environmental footprint of the project.

Public opposition has coalesced around the online platform www.DefendDresden.ca, where residents can access information, submit comments and stay informed.

Chatham-Kent council will now work with legal and environmental experts to determine all avenues of appeal and public challenge, including legal opposition to Bill 5 and related regulatory exemptions. The municipality is also exploring opportunities to align with other jurisdictions facing similar waste disposal proposals.

In reaffirming its stance, council emphasized that a comprehensive environmental assessment is not just a regulatory formality but a critical safeguard for community health, environmental protection and Indigenous consultation.

Municipal officials have committed to keeping residents informed as the matter progresses, with updates to be shared through the municipal website and other official channels.

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

Chatham-Kent has officially adopted its updated Community Safety and Well-Being Plan (CSWB) for 2025–2029, reinforcing its commitment to building a safer, healthier and more inclusive community. The move follows a provincial mandate that requires every Ontario municipality to develop such a plan under the Community Safety and Policing Act, 2019.

The plan, endorsed by Chatham-Kent Council on June 9, was informed by a combination of survey data, stakeholder engagement, and research from provincial and federal sources. Input from more than 350 residents and local leaders across sectors—healthcare, education, social services and emergency response—shaped the priorities and framework of the plan.

The goal of the CSWB Plan is to create a community in which residents feel safe, connected and supported, while ensuring that services are accessible and equitable. It emphasizes a proactive and integrated approach to address social issues that affect safety and well-being, rather than relying on incident-based responses alone.

Central to the plan is a planning framework that includes four areas of intervention: social development, prevention, risk intervention, and incident response. While each area plays a role, the plan calls for most resources and investments to be directed toward social development initiatives—long-term, proactive strategies that improve outcomes across the population.

The plan outlines six priority areas of focus: substance use, mental health, housing and income security, public safety, community belonging, and children, youth and family wellness.

Work in each of these priority areas will be led by dedicated action teams composed of local partners. These teams will be responsible for designing and implementing targeted strategies, engaging the public, tracking progress and adapting approaches as needed. Collaboration among agencies and improved data-sharing will be key to measuring impact and refining the plan over time.

Key commitments include reducing stigma and systemic barriers associated with substance use, improving access to mental health supports, expanding housing and financial security options, enhancing public safety, and strengthening social ties within neighbourhoods. Investments will also be made in youth programming and initiatives that support healthy family dynamics.

A major component of the plan’s development was a community survey conducted in March 2025. Over a four-week period, 350 residents responded, providing valuable insights into local needs and perceptions.

According to the survey, 70 per cent of respondents reported a sense of belonging in their communities, and more than 81 per cent said they had positive relationships with neighbours. While 65 per cent of people felt safe walking in their neighbourhoods after dark, nearly 80 per cent said they believed crime had increased over the last four years.

Other findings highlighted concerns about unsupervised outdoor play for children, particularly among parents of children aged 5 to 12. Respondents identified substance use, criminal activity, mental health, physical activity, poverty, and education and employment as top community priorities.

Municipal officials say the survey results, while informative, will be interpreted alongside broader datasets from Statistics Canada, Public Health Ontario and local partners such as the Chatham-Kent Ontario Health Team, Linck, Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, and emergency service providers.

The next steps include sharing the full CSWB Plan with the public in summer 2025 through online platforms and printed copies at local libraries. Community members will continue to be invited to participate in consultations, strategy development, and ongoing feedback sessions.

Planners also aim to establish sustainable funding sources, consult residents on specific action items, and build an evaluation strategy to monitor outcomes. The ultimate vision is a long-term reduction in systemic risk factors and improved coordination among services.

For more information or to get involved, residents can visit www.letstalkchatham-kent.ca/community-sw.

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

The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) is launching public consultations to help shape the future of a 47-kilometre multi-use trail that would stretch across Essex County along the former Canada Southern Railway corridor.

The proposed CASO Greenway Trail would convert the long-dormant rail line—spanning from Tilbury through the towns of Lakeshore, Essex, and Tecumseh—into a continuous trail for walking, cycling, and active transportation.

The corridor was secured for public use in late 2022 through a multi-partner agreement involving ERCA, the County of Essex, and the municipalities of Tecumseh, Essex, and Lakeshore, with funding support from Environment and Climate Change Canada.

June is Trails Month, and ERCA is marking the occasion by hosting three public open houses to gather community feedback on the trail’s design and development. An online survey is also available until June 30.

In an interview with the Tilbury Times Reporter, ERCA’s director of communications and outreach services, Danielle Stuebing, said the trail project will require significant fundraising and extensive public engagement before construction can begin.

“Preliminary engineering estimates suggest this will be a $14-million project, so we’ll be launching a fundraising campaign through the Essex Region Conservation Foundation in the coming months,” said Stuebing.

She added that accessibility will be a key priority. “We’ll be working closely with the Essex County Accessibility Advisory Committee to ensure this trail is safe and accessible for everyone, just as we’ve done with previous Greenway developments.”

The open houses will take place June 16 at the Essex Centre Sports Complex, June 17 at the Libro Community Centre in South Woodslee, and June 23 at the Royal Canadian Legion in Comber. Each session runs from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Stuebing said public feedback will be carefully reviewed and will help shape the final design of the trail. ERCA plans to present the findings to its board this fall.

She also noted that trails like this one offer important economic and tourism benefits, especially for rural areas.

“We’ve heard from businesses near the existing Greenway system that trails have become an important part of their business model,” she said. “And with the opening of the Gordie Howe Bridge, this trail will be a key part of our region’s cycle tourism network.”

Environmental concerns associated with the conversion are expected to be minimal, she added, with routine brush clearing planned in winter months to avoid disturbing local wildlife.

For more details or to complete the survey, residents can visit: www.essexregionconservation.ca/CASOSurvey.

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

King George VI Public School has been selected as one of 30 schools across Canada — and one of just 11 in Ontario — to receive a $20,000 grant from the Indigo Love of Reading Foundation.

The grant, spread over three years, will support the Lambton Kent District School Board school’s efforts to build a stronger library collection and foster a lifelong love of reading among students.

The Indigo Love of Reading Foundation, launched in 2004, provides resources to schools in high-needs communities. With support from Indigo and its customers, the foundation has invested more than $36 million into 3,600 schools across the country, reaching over one million students. King George VI’s selection recognizes its strong commitment to literacy and student engagement.

“We are absolutely thrilled and incredibly grateful to receive this $20,000 Indigo Love of Reading Grant,” said principal Danielle Maryschak. “This generous funding will be a game-changer for our school library, allowing us to acquire a diverse collection of new books and resources that will ignite a passion for reading in our students.”

Maryschak said the school’s goal is to create an inclusive and engaging library by updating non-fiction titles, expanding high-interest fiction options and ensuring representation of diverse voices.

“A strong library is the heart of a thriving school,” she said. “This grant will empower us to provide our students with the tools and inspiration they need to become lifelong readers.”

The school is one of just two recipients outside the Greater Toronto Area in Ontario to receive the grant this year.

The school community extended special thanks to staff members Emily Dixon and Heather Josling for their letters of support, which contributed to the success of the application.

The three-year partnership with the Indigo Love of Reading Foundation is expected to have a lasting impact on literacy development and academic opportunities for all students at King George VI.

 

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

A Tilbury woman with decades of volunteer service has been nationally recognized for her contributions to the community.

Katharine Smyth was among 64 recipients of the Governor General’s Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers, which honours individuals who have made exceptional and sustained volunteer contributions in Canada and abroad.

Smyth, who runs Katharine’s Bed and Breakfast in Tilbury with her husband Doug, has long been a fixture in the community. The couple, married for decades, raised four children and are now grandparents to nine.

Smyth’s roots in volunteerism trace back to her youth, when she joined the Kent County Junior Farmers and reported for CFCO Radio’s Harold Smith show. Her service continued through her adult life, including involvement in Scouts, Girl Guides, and at the local ball diamond.

Even while raising a young family, Smyth found time to give back. After a period at home with her children, she returned to the workforce as a medical laboratory technologist, beginning as a volunteer phlebotomist at St. Joseph’s Hospital before earning a full-time role.

In retirement, her commitment to service only grew. She served as treasurer of the Tilbury Chamber of Commerce and BIA for six years, joined the Chatham-Kent First Impressions Exchange program through OMAFRA, and worked on the Tilbury Revitalization Committee.

A passionate gardener, Smyth joined the local Horticultural Society—serving as a past president—and became a certified floral judge through the Ontario Horticultural Association (OHA). She eventually served as District 11 Director, vice-president, and president of the OHA, and still sits on several of its committees. She was instrumental in producing the Garden Ontario Journal on Vegetables.

Smyth has also trained as a culinary judge, volunteering at numerous agricultural fairs.

Her work with Communities in Bloom began in 2008. As a judge for more than 10 years, she has helped evaluate communities across Canada and internationally based on criteria including tidiness, heritage conservation, urban forestry and floral displays. Chatham-Kent was named a national winner in 2010.

Smyth’s dedication doesn’t stop there. She has served on boards for United Way of Chatham-Kent, St. Paul’s Congregational Church, and Chatham-Kent Tourism. She’s also a long-standing member of the Chatham-Kent Heritage Committee and has been part of Beta Sigma Phi, a cultural and service organization, since 1965.

In 2018, she co-chaired the beautification committee for the International Plowing Match in Chatham-Kent and helped lead the Tilbury Nine-Hole Ladies Golf Group.

Her wide-ranging interests include gardening, canning, photography, birding, sewing, quilting and baking specialty cakes. She also enjoys welcoming guests at her bed and breakfast.

Smyth said she was overwhelmed with emotion upon learning she had received the honour. She encouraged others to recognize volunteers in their own communities.

“There are so many deserving people who help run our local organizations,” she said. “They deserve to be nominated too.”

Nominations for the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers can be submitted at https://caring.gg.ca.

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

A series of arrests across Chatham-Kent over the weekend and into early June have led to multiple criminal charges, including impaired driving in Tilbury, weapons possession, and breaches of court orders.

Tilbury traffic stop leads to impaired driving charges

A 51-year-old man from Leamington faces impaired driving charges after police responded to a report of a vehicle driving erratically on Wheatley Road in Tilbury East shortly after midnight on May 31.

The vehicle was located parked at the roadside, with its lights off. The driver showed signs of impairment and was arrested. Breath tests indicated his blood alcohol concentration was 150 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood—almost twice the legal limit.

He was charged with impaired operation and operating with a blood alcohol concentration over 80, and released with a court date scheduled for June 16.

Convenience store theft ends in arrests, weapon seizure

On June 2, Chatham-Kent police responded to a theft in progress at a convenience store on Grand Avenue West in Chatham around 8:17 p.m. Two suspects were seen leaving the store without paying for several items.

Officers located both individuals—a 28-year-old man and a 19-year-old man, both from Chatham-Kent—nearby. The 19-year-old fled on foot, prompting a short police pursuit before his arrest. A weapon was found in his possession. The 28-year-old suspect was arrested without incident, and the stolen property was recovered.

The older suspect is charged with possession of property obtained by crime. The younger man faces several charges, including theft under $5,000, possession of stolen property, escape lawful custody, obstructing police and breach of probation. Both were released with conditions and are scheduled to appear in court on July 14.

Wallaceburg man arrested on outstanding warrants

A 44-year-old Wallaceburg man was arrested May 30 after failing to attend court on previous convictions for mischief, theft, and failing to appear. Officers located him in a parking lot and confirmed the outstanding warrants. He was taken into custody and later released with a court date set for June 2.

Suspect turns himself in on long-standing mischief charge

A 22-year-old Chatham man turned himself in to police on June 1 in connection with a 2024 mischief investigation. He had been accused of damaging two vehicles with a baseball bat following a neighbour dispute and had failed to attend several court dates.

Police confirmed an outstanding warrant and arrested the suspect, who was originally charged in 2024.

Sarnia man arrested after breaching no-contact order

A 27-year-old Sarnia man was arrested on May 30 after violating the terms of his release related to a domestic violence case. He had previously been charged with multiple counts of assault and was ordered not to contact the victim.

Despite the conditions, the man was observed near the victim’s residence, prompting a warrant. He was located by Sarnia police and turned over to Chatham-Kent officers, where he remains in custody pending a bail hearing.

All accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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

The Ridge House Museum opened for the 2025 summer season on June 1, offering visitors a chance to step back into 1875 and take part in two milestone celebrations: Ridgetown’s 150th anniversary and the museum’s 50th.

This year’s featured exhibition, Making the Map: The Settlers of Ridgetown, explores the stories of four founding families — William and Sarah Marsh, James and Sophia Watson, Edmund and Mary Mitton, and Ebenezer and Jane Colby — who were granted the original 100-acre lots that would become the town.

“The exhibition showcases original artifacts, including two of the original land grants,” said Lydia Burggraaf, curator of the Ridge House Museum. “Visitors learn about these families’ experiences clearing the land and building the community. A firsthand account of Ridgetown in 1875 reveals how quickly the area transformed within a few decades.”

Guided tours of the historic home highlight what middle-class life looked like in the late 19th century. Many furnishings and artifacts were donated by local families, churches, and service clubs. “Unlike many heritage houses that focus on prominent individuals, Ridge House portrays a more general middle-class experience,” Burggraaf said.

In the Discovery Den — a play-based learning space for all ages — visitors can join in the museum’s birthday celebration with themed toys and drop-in activities. “The birthday party theme includes a cake sensory bin, a play kitchen, a tea party set and more,” Burggraaf said. The museum also offers Creative Kids workshops and other family programming throughout the summer.

Outside, the Pollinator Patch offers a peaceful garden experience, featuring a mix of native plants and heritage flowers planted in partnership with the Ridgetown and District Horticultural Society. “The society created the garden plan, secured sponsors, produced a brochure and continues to maintain the space,” Burggraaf said. “It provides meaningful learning opportunities and enhances the museum grounds.”

On select dates — July 19 and 20, and Aug. 16 and 17 — the museum will close to host Escape the Ridge House: Happy Birthday Ridgetown, an immersive escape room experience. “We introduced the escape room after a successful trial at Milner Heritage House,” Burggraaf said. “Participants solve puzzles, crack ciphers and find clues in a fun, themed setting.” Registration is available online.

The Ridge House Museum is open to drop-in visitors from June 1 to Aug. 31, Wednesday through Sunday. Admission is by donation. For details, visit chatham-kent.ca/ridgehouse or follow @CKMunicipalMuseums on social media.

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

The Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation Board of Directors is pleased to announce Brock McGregor as its new Executive Director, effective June 9, 2025. McGregor will succeed Jodi Maroney, who is retiring on June 27, 2025, following a thorough recruitment process led by Logic Executive Search and Workplace Solutions.

Since 2014, Brock has served as a Municipal Councillor for Chatham-Kent, holding leadership roles such as Chair of the Board of Health and Chair of the Budget Committee. Known for his calm and analytical approach, he is praised for strong communication and collaborative leadership focused on system improvements.

“Brock’s long-standing commitment to volunteerism and community engagement makes him an ideal leader to carry forward the Foundation’s mission of raising funds and awareness for Chatham-Kent Hospice,” said Marian Redford, Chair of the Foundation Board.

McGregor expressed enthusiasm about his new role: “I look forward to supporting the sustainability and growth of Chatham-Kent Hospice. Compassionate care profoundly impacts families, and I am eager to help advance this vital work in our community.”

The Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation is responsible for fundraising efforts that sustain the Hospice, requiring $182,000 monthly to cover operating costs. The Hospice itself is a 10-bed residential facility providing end-of-life care and bereavement support. Since opening in April 2016, it has cared for over 1,578 families and supported more than 2,239 individuals through grief services. The facility depends on community donations for 58% of its annual budget.

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

The Chatham-Kent Local Immigration Partnership (CK LIP) is now accepting applications for its Immigrant Advisory Group (IAG), a committee of newcomers who help shape local strategies to improve settlement and integration across the municipality.

“Joining IAG is a great way to become more involved in the community and share your thoughts as a new immigrant to Chatham-Kent,” said current member Bookie Oludotun. “It’s a valuable space to exchange ideas, learn more about the area and meet others from diverse backgrounds.”

The group serves as a consultative resource to the CK LIP council and provides insight into the challenges and opportunities immigrants face after arriving in Chatham-Kent. Members must be 18 or older, have immigrated through any stream, and currently live in the municipality. They serve a three-year term and attend four in-person meetings annually.

The call for applications comes at a time of growing diversity in Chatham-Kent. According to the 2021 Census, more than 6,800 residents in the municipality identify as immigrants, with recent arrivals from countries including India, Mexico, the Philippines and Syria. Many newcomers contribute to the local economy through agriculture, health care and small business, particularly in communities such as Chatham, Blenheim, Tilbury and Wallaceburg.

“Diverse voices. Stronger CK,” said Lara Olukolu, project coordinator with CK LIP. “We’re looking for individuals with a range of experiences and perspectives. Your contribution can help shape how Chatham-Kent supports newcomers today and in the future.”

CK LIP brings together local stakeholders to design and implement strategies that help immigrants settle and thrive in the community. The council includes service providers, employers and residents, working together to create a more inclusive and connected Chatham-Kent — whether you’ve just arrived in Wheatley, Comber, Tilbury or have called the region home for years.

Chatham-Kent’s immigrant population has seen notable growth. According to the 2021 Census, the total immigrant population was 9,240, accounting for 9.1 per cent of the total population, up from 8.7 per cent in 2016. Between 2016 and 2021, 845 immigrants settled in the area, marking a 44 per cent increase from the previous five-year period. Recent immigrants have diverse origins, with significant numbers from India, Mexico and Syria. The municipality has also seen an increase in racialized communities, with a 47.7 per cent rise in their numbers from 2016 to 2021.

Applications are open until June 27, 2025, on the Let’s Talk Chatham-Kent website. More details, including current member profiles and past highlights, are available at www.chatham-kent.ca/cklip. You can also follow CK LIP on Facebook and Twitter, or contact the team directly at cklip@chatham-kent.ca.

By: Isabelle Bujold, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

Erie Shores HealthCare has announced the recipients of its 2025 Excellence in Service Awards, recognizing outstanding staff and volunteers who have gone above and beyond in delivering exceptional patient care across Essex County.

The awards were presented during Hospital Staff Appreciation Week and Nurses Week to individuals who exemplify the hospital’s core values of compassion, teamwork and excellence.

“This year’s recipients represent the very best of Erie Shores,” said Kristin Kennedy, president and CEO of Erie Shores HealthCare. “Their dedication to patients, their colleagues and the community reminds us why we do what we do. They inspire all of us to strive for excellence.”

Located in Leamington, Erie Shores HealthCare serves a wide region including Kingsville, Essex, Comber, Tilbury and surrounding rural communities. With more than 500 employees, professional staff and volunteers, the hospital offers specialized acute and complex continuing care, as well as allied health and ambulatory services.

This year’s honourees are:

• Employee of the Year – Teresa Coppola, honoured for more than 40 years of service and compassionate patient care.

• Physician of the Year – Dr. Christopher Anderson, recognized for his leadership and commitment in emergency medicine.

• Nurse of the Year – Kristin Spicer, celebrated for her mentorship and role in developing the Admission Discharge Unit.

• Leader of the Year – Patti Fields, praised for steady leadership and coordinating hospital-wide patient flow.

• Volunteer of the Year – Shelly Dobson, commended for her generosity and unwavering support for staff and patients.

• Program of the Year – Diagnostic Imaging Booking Office, recognized for reducing patient wait times by ensuring appointments are booked within eight days of receiving a requisition.

The awards are based on peer nominations and reviewed by a hospital-wide selection committee. This year saw a record number of submissions from across all departments and locations, including staff and volunteers who support care in Comber, Tilbury and beyond—reflecting the hospital’s deep regional roots and commitment to service.