Category: Uncategorized

By: Pam Wright, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Chatham Voice

 

A multi-pronged motion by North Kent Coun. Rhonda Jubenville that includes examining how harm-reduction supply kits are distributed locally has been referred to the Chatham-Kent board of health. 

 

Brought forward at the Feb. 9 council meeting, the motion included possibly halting the delivery of harm-reduction supplies to residents at Pathways on Park transitional housing. Instead, after much discussion, council voted to send the motion to the board of health for examination.

 

Several deputations, as well as a presentation from C-K Medical Officer of Health Dr. Shanker Nesathurai, made the case that providing harm-reduction supplies helps save lives and is part of Ontario’s public health response.

 

According to Nesathurai, it’s part of a medical officer of health’s job to “faithfully execute” regulations and standards requiring public health to acquire and distribute harm-reduction supplies. 

 

Deviating from the province’s Health and Promotion Act isn’t part of that mandate, the physician told council.

 

“Receiving public health services is the same as receiving fire services or ambulance services,” Nesathurai said. “I think that anything that would impede the equal access to vital life-saving public health services is not consistent with the Health Protection and Promotion Act.

 

“Medicine is about saying the truth and saying uncomfortable things,” he said, adding the board of health is required to deliver services to all people. “It’s not within the purview of myself or the board of health to restrict those supplies, because that’s what the provincial rules require.”

 

As part of his presentation, Nesathurai unveiled the contents of a typical harm-reduction kit. It included clean needles, a cooker, and a tourniquet. 

 

“The reason I show this to you is that we’re not endorsing the underlying conduct,” he said. “What we want people to do is for them to live one more day.”

 

Nesathurai stressed that giving out kits to addicts serves a broader purpose that includes stopping the spread of blood-borne illness such as Hepatitis C or HIV, to non-drug users such as family members. In the last 10 years, 500 people have contracted Hepatitis C in Chatham-Kent.

 

“The fact is that some of them were using drugs,” the doctor said, but added others got the disease from their sexual partners.

 

“When we take away harm reduction supplies, we’re not only affecting the people who are currently using drugs – and those people aren’t all homeless – we’re also affecting their sexual partners. We’re taking away from them, something medicine can do to prevent them from getting sick.”

 

That includes babies in utero, he explained.

 

While holding up a condom, which public health distributes for free, Nesathurai stated that handing out condoms doesn’t enable people to have sex, it simply prevents pregnancy and the spread of disease.

 

Council also heard that contracting agencies to distribute harm reduction supplies, such as Reach Out Chatham-Kent (R.O.C.K.) Missions does at Pathways on Park, is common for Ontario’s health units. As part of the local public health response, harm reduction kits can also be obtained by calling public health through its Positive Pathways service which delivers right to the user’s door.

 

Pharmacies and other health-care institutions also distribute kits, council learned, and some deliver.

 

C-K board of health chair and Chatham Coun. Brock McGregor said the benefits of harm reduction are evidence based.

 

“We’ve had those conversations around the table many, many times,” McGregor said, noting the board is glad to again examine the harm-reduction issue.

 

He added the public health approach is evidence-based, not reliant on one “anecdotal story” or comments on social media.”

 

In her comments prior to the vote, Jubenville said she wasn’t trying to get rid of harm-reduction supplies altogether.

 

“I just want to be clear, because I think there are some misconceptions, that this motion does not restrict or remove access to those who are living at Pathways on Park to harm-reduction supplies,” Jubenville told council. “This motion merely asks for the cessation of delivery of said supplies to Pathways on Park, which is a drug-free municipal housing complex.”

 

Jubenville said she supports the C-K Drug Strategy and some aspects of the harm-reduction pillar, but doesn’t believe that “having an overabundance” of supplies like “needles and pipes” helps addicted people move towards recovery.

 

By: Pam Wright, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Chatham Voice

 

Chatham-Kent has taken a major step towards implementing an N-13 renovictions bylaw. 

 

On Feb. 9, C-K council approved a motion from Chatham Coun. Marjorie Crew directing administration to explore the issue and return with a report and draft bylaw in June. 

 

Council chambers were packed as many came out to support Crew’s bylaw proposal, including residents of Chatham’s Terrace Forty apartment building. Older residents – some in their 90s – braved the subzero temperatures to attend the meeting, with a few using walkers.

 

In January, all 40 residents at the Chatham complex were served N-13 notices by landlord Rex Brondial stating they need to leave for eight months so work to address asbestos and lead concerns can be completed. All of the tenants have been offered a $5,000 cash-for-keys deal to end their tenancy and move out by the end of March. 

 

Currently, under an N-13 notice, landlords give tenants a notice stating they must vacate their apartment so work – such as asbestos abatement – can be completed. Tenants are asked to voluntarily move, sometimes prompted by a cash for keys deal. However, tenants who relocate have first right of refusal to return after work is completed, paying the same amount of rent as when they left.

 

Critics say renovictions are a ploy to get rid of tenants paying modest pre-Covid rents, in order to maximize profits by charging market-level rents – often double or triple what the tenants are currently paying. They’re in favour of an N-13 bylaw to try and stop unscrupulous landlords from evicting people under the guise of renovations. 

 

Crew said she was encouraged by the show of support at council.

 

“I’m happy we’re moving on to the next step,” Crew said following the meeting, noting staff will be looking at best practices in other jurisdictions, including Toronto and Hamilton where N-13 bylaws are in place.

 

 “We’re going to be engaging with others,” she added. “We hope this will take care of the loopholes that allow bad-faith landlords who take advantage of vulnerable tenants.”

 

According to Crew, an N-13 bylaw will be aimed at bad actors only, not good landlords who comprise the majority.

 

Under other Ontario N-13 bylaws, landlords who insist that dwellings be vacant to complete work must apply for a license from the municipality and get building permits. They must also get certification from a professional, such as an engineer, that the work is necessary. Landlords breaking the rules face heavy fines.

 

Deputations by Chatham-Kent Legal Clinic housing stability paralegal Jeff Wilkins and Advocacy Centre for Tenants Ontario representative Doug Kwan, as well as Terrace Forty resident Gord Harvey were among those to address council.

 

According to Harvey, the N-13 notices came as a shock to tenants.

 

Many said they would “end up on the streets,” Harvey explained, as they have nowhere to go.

 

“For all of us at Terrace Forty, receiving an eviction notice wasn’t an inconvenience, it was in fact, a crisis,” he told council. “Without challenging these evictions, it means scrambling to find housing in a market with low vacancy rates and rapidly rising rents.”

 

Harvey pointed out the intent of a renoviction bylaw is not to stop lawful renovations but to introduce “clarity and transparency” to the process, ensuring tenants are informed of their rights.

 

Most of Terrace Forty’s tenants are opting to stay put and are working with the C-K Legal Clinic to do so legally.

 

It has been reported by other media outlets that Brondial is behind similar N-13 actions at a complex in Sarnia and a building in Tillsonburg. However as of press time, The Voice has not been able to speak with Brondial or any of his associates.

 

By: Pam Wright, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Chatham Voice

 

Two long-serving Chatham councillors have been chosen to serve on the municipality’s newly formed Encampment Advisory Committee.

 

Marjorie Crew and Michael Bondy were named to the committee by council in an acclamation of sorts at the Feb. 9 council meeting. The two were the only councillors remaining after four other councillors who had been interested withdrew their names.

 

Council also appointed other community members to the committee with names gleaned from an application process. Joseph Vandermeer, Claire McDowell, Renee Geniole, Meghan Bradley, Andrew Thiel and Lynn O’Brien are on the roster, along with C-K director of housing Kim Crew and health and human services general manager Jodi Guilmette.

 

The idea of forming the Encampment Advisory Committee came about last November, following the relocation of the downtown homeless encampment to the greenspace at the C-K water treatment plant on Grand Avenue East in Chatham. The move sparked a backlash from residents and business owners worried about the impact of drug addiction and crime on the neighbourhood.

 

The terms of reference for the committee state that the body must include people with lived experience, as well as members of the Northside Neighbours Association, homeowners who live near the current encampment. Its goal is to fairly represent stakeholders and to ensure transparency in communication.

 

According to Chatham-Kent communications co-ordinator Eric Labadie, next steps for the committee include setting up a first meeting and agenda. Updates will be provided to council as they become avail

 

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

 

The Atlas Tube Centre will be buzzing with energy this weekend as nearly 600 figure skaters from across Ontario arrive in the municipality for Provincial Series Competition #15, hosted by Skate Lakeshore from February 20 to 22, 2026. The event marks one of the largest gatherings of young skating talent in the region and reflects the rapid growth of the sport within the community.

 

Organizers say this year’s competition represents a major milestone for the local club.

 

“Thanks to the success of our first competition last year, this year’s event has nearly doubled in size,” said Danielle Stuebing, Skate Lakeshore Competition Chair. “We are so excited to have expanded the categories to include Star 1–4 and synchronized skating, which allows even more of our Skate Lakeshore athletes to compete on home ice.”

 

The Skate Ontario Provincial Series is a key pathway for athletes hoping to qualify for the Skate Ontario Provincial Championships, making this weekend an important stop for skaters, coaches, and families from across the province.

 

The Municipality of Lakeshore is embracing its role as host community, highlighting both the economic and cultural benefits of welcoming hundreds of visitors.

 

“On behalf of Lakeshore’s communities, we are thrilled to welcome figure skaters from across Ontario as they compete for a spot at the Provincial Championships,” said Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey. “Thank you to the hardworking members of Skate Lakeshore who helped bring this event to our municipality. We hope that all skaters, along with family, friends, coaches, and volunteers, enjoy everything Lakeshore has to offer.”

 

Behind the scenes, the competition is powered by an impressive volunteer effort. Skate Lakeshore says the response from the community has been overwhelming.

 

“It takes many hands to put on an event of this caliber,” Stuebing noted. “We are so grateful to the more than 100 volunteers who have signed up to support this event. Their dedication makes it possible for us to host a competition of this size and quality.”

 

Spectators are invited to attend throughout the weekend. The event runs 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $10 per person, with seating available on a first‑come, first‑served basis.

 

Skate Lakeshore, a not‑for‑profit organization, continues to grow its presence in the community. Operated by a small but dedicated team of volunteers, the club offers skating programs for participants ranging from age 3 to adult, with a mission to make skating accessible, enjoyable, and development‑focused for all.

 

As hundreds of athletes lace up for a weekend of competition, camaraderie, and personal bests, Lakeshore is poised to shine as a welcoming hub for skating excellence—both on the ice and in the community that supports it.

 

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

 

Chatham-Kent residents are invited to lace up and step out for a milestone moment as registration officially opens for the 10th Annual Hike for Hospice, presented by Title Sponsor Battery Boy. The signature community event will take place on Sunday, May 3, 2026, along the scenic Mud Creek Trail in Chatham.

 

This year’s hike carries special significance as Chatham-Kent Hospice marks 10 years of providing compassionate, residential end‑of‑life care at no cost to local individuals and families. Organizers say the anniversary offers an opportunity not only to celebrate a decade of service, but also to honour loved ones and ensure support continues for future families.

 

Participants are encouraged to begin collecting pledges ahead of the event using either the online fundraising system or traditional paper forms. The Hospice Foundation has set a fundraising goal of $160,000, with every dollar staying in Chatham-Kent to support local hospice care.

 

Event-day activities begin at noon, offering a full afternoon of community connection before the hike officially departs at 2:00 p.m. Attendees can enjoy live music, memorial activities, lawn games, children’s programming, and other family-friendly features designed to bring people together in a spirit of remembrance and generosity.

 

“We invite people of all abilities to sign up, collect pledges and enjoy time together as a family,” said Rebecca Smyth, Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation Board Member. “As we celebrate 10 years of hospice care in our community, Hike for Hospice is a meaningful way to remember loved ones who have passed and honour them by paying it forward to other families in Chatham-Kent.”

 

Registration is free, and participants may choose to purchase a commemorative T‑shirt or a personalized memorial sign featuring the name and photo of a loved one. Memorial signs will be displayed along the Mud Creek Trail beginning April 27, offering a touching tribute throughout the week leading up to the main event.

 

While the official hike takes place on May 3, participants are welcome to complete their walk anytime between Monday, April 27 and Saturday, May 2, allowing for flexible participation while still supporting the cause.

 

For more information, to register, or to begin collecting pledges, visit www.hikeforhospiceck.com.

 

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

 

Tuesday afternoons at the Chatham Branch of the Chatham-Kent Public Library are set to deliver a cinematic escape throughout March, offering visitors a chance to unwind, connect, and enjoy a diverse selection of films. Screenings begin at 2:00 p.m. each Tuesday, with the exception of March 17, when no movie will be shown. This month’s lineup is designed to stir emotions and take audiences on journeys filled with humour, heart, and powerful storytelling.

 

The March series opens on Tuesday, March 3, with the uplifting crowd‑pleaser “Eddie the Eagle” (PG), starring Taron Egerton, Hugh Jackman, and Tom Costello. The film follows the remarkable true story of Eddie Edwards, the unlikely British ski jumper who captured the world’s attention with his determination and underdog spirit. Known for its charm and feel‑good energy, the movie sets the tone for a month of engaging and emotional viewing.

 

On Tuesday, March 10, the library will screen “Roofman” (14A), featuring Channing Tatum, Kirsten Dunst, and LaKeith Stanfield. This dramatic crime‑tinged story offers a shift in tone, drawing viewers into a world of tension, character complexity, and unexpected twists. With a cast known for their dynamic performances, the film promises an afternoon of gripping entertainment.

 

After a brief pause on March 17, the series resumes on Tuesday, March 24, with “The Great Escaper” (NR), starring Michael Caine, Glenda Jackson, and Danielle Vitalis. Inspired by true events, the film follows an elderly veteran who embarks on a heartfelt journey to honour his past. With acclaimed performances from two legendary actors, the movie blends humour, nostalgia, and emotional depth.

 

The month concludes on Tuesday, March 30, with “The Friend” (R), featuring Bill Murray, Naomi Watts, and Cloé Xhauflaire. This emotionally charged drama explores themes of loyalty, compassion, and the bonds that carry people through life’s most difficult moments. With its powerful cast and intimate storytelling, the film offers a poignant finale to the March movie series.

 

The Chatham-Kent Public Library welcomes all community members to attend the Tuesday afternoon screenings. Registration is not required, and seating is available on a first‑come, first‑served basis. A suggested donation of $2.00 at the door helps support library programming and community events.

 

For more information about upcoming programs, events, and services at the Chatham-Kent Public Library, visit www.ckpl.ca.

 

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

 

Chatham-Kent Public Health is urging community members to seek medical advice after identifying significant lapses in the sterilization and reprocessing of medical equipment at a private Chatham clinic. The alert, issued last Thursday, concerns procedures performed at the Chatham Skin Clinic, operated by Dr. Queenette Emem Asuquo, located at 125 Keil Drive South.

 

According to Public Health, the infection control lapse occurred over an extended period, from October 1, 2024, to January 30, 2026, and may have exposed patients to blood‑borne illnesses, including HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. The clinic performs a range of medical and cosmetic procedures, including skin biopsies and other treatments that require strict sterilization protocols. Public Health officials say the lapses identified during their review could potentially increase the risk of transmission of blood‑borne infections for individuals treated during that time frame.

 

In its advisory, CK Public Health emphasized the importance of individual assessment, noting that risk varies depending on the type of procedure performed and the equipment used. “Speaking with a healthcare provider can help you understand your personal risk for blood-borne infections, and determine if testing for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or HIV would be beneficial,” the statement read.

 

Public Health is recommending that anyone who received procedural treatment at the Chatham Skin Clinic during the affected period contact their health care provider as soon as possible. Those without a primary care provider are encouraged to visit a walk‑in clinic for evaluation and guidance. Health professionals can help determine whether testing is appropriate and provide follow‑up support if needed.

 

Dr. Queenette Emem Asuquo, the practising physician at the Chatham Skin Clinic, is also available to address patient questions and provide clarification regarding the situation. Public Health has not released further details about the nature of the lapses but says the investigation is ongoing and additional updates will be provided if necessary.

 

CK Public Health continues to stress that early consultation and testing, when recommended, can offer reassurance, ensure timely care, and help protect both individual and community health.

 

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

 

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has announced a significant shift in how Special Needs Resourcing (SNR) will be delivered in licensed child care settings, unveiling a new service model aimed at strengthening educator capacity, enhancing family engagement, and creating more inclusive classroom environments. As the provincially mandated children’s services system manager, the Municipality says the redesign aligns with evolving provincial practices and responds to major changes in the child care sector over the past several years.

 

As part of the transition, the Municipality will end its SNR service contract with Linck Child, Youth and Family Supports, a decision that will affect 39 positions at the multi-service children’s agency. The transition is expected to take place in mid-April. Municipal officials say the change reflects a shift toward a more flexible, classroom‑embedded model that mirrors approaches used in other Ontario municipalities.

 

Municipal leaders emphasized that parents and caregivers with children currently receiving support will see no interruption in service, and that the Municipality is working closely with Linck to ensure continuity throughout the transition. Families will also be engaged in future planning, with progression decisions made only when appropriate and supported by demonstrated success in the classroom.

 

The redesigned model introduces several new components intended to support all licensed child care programs and better respond to the diverse needs of children. Inclusion coaches will be hired to work directly with educators and supervisors inside child care programs, offering mentorship, observation, and practical strategies to help create inclusive environments for all children without requiring formal referrals. When programs need additional support to maintain inclusive environments, child care operators will receive direct funding to increase adult‑to‑child ratios and implement targeted strategies. In rare and complex cases, additional specialized supports may be coordinated, including external professionals or one‑to‑one assistance, delivered directly through the child care operator.

 

Under the new model, licensed child care operators will be funded directly to provide enhanced support services, while the Municipality’s Child Care and Early Years (CCEY) division will work closely with operators to deliver coaching, professional learning, and capacity‑building activities.

 

Municipal officials say the current SNR model, while created with positive intent, is no longer able to meet the growing and increasingly complex needs of the child care sector. Post‑pandemic pressures, staffing challenges, and the rollout of the Canada‑Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) program have all contributed to the need for a more responsive and sustainable approach.

 

The Municipality also acknowledged the significant contributions of Linck staff, noting their long‑standing commitment to supporting children and families in Chatham-Kent. Linck will see a reduction of 24 full‑time, 6 contract, and 9 casual positions. Staff affected by the change will be offered support through the Municipality’s CK Jobs program, along with assistance navigating new positions created under the redesigned model.

 

Parents and caregivers with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the Child Care and Early Years division at 1‑866‑720‑7975 or ccey@chatham-kent.ca. Staff will respond and arrange time to discuss questions directly.

 

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

 

The Ontario government is celebrating a major boost to Southwestern Ontario’s manufacturing sector as Dajcor Aluminum Ltd. announces a $1,598,250 investment to expand operations and create 24 new good‑paying jobs in Chatham-Kent. The project, supported through the province’s Southwestern Ontario Development Fund (SWODF), marks another step in strengthening regional industry and enhancing Ontario’s competitive edge.

 

The investment was supported by Trevor Jones, MPP for Chatham-Kent–Leamington, who said the project reflects the province’s commitment to fostering growth and stability in key economic sectors.

 

“By supporting strategic investments from regional businesses, our government is protecting Ontario’s workers and creating the conditions for a strong, stable, and resilient economy that can weather any storm,” Jones said. “Dajcor Aluminum’s investment will support growth and innovation across the local manufacturing sector and create more good-paying jobs for workers and families in Southwestern Ontario.”

 

Dajcor Aluminum, a leading manufacturer of extruded and fabricated aluminum components, will use the investment to upgrade machine fabrication, cutting, heating, and environmental processes. The improvements are expected to increase production capacity across multiple stages of manufacturing and help the company achieve a projected 54% revenue growth by 2027. The company is also integrating new technology to reduce unproductive labour and improve efficiency at its presses, with a goal of lowering scrap rates by up to 25%, further boosting profitability.

 

Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, Vic Fedeli, said the investment underscores the importance of manufacturing to the province’s economic strength.

 

“Employing more than 800,000 workers across the province, Ontario’s manufacturing sector is the economic engine of our nation,” Fedeli said. “Our government is proud to support local companies like Dajcor Aluminum as they expand their operations, and we thank them for their contributions to Ontario’s dynamic and growing manufacturing ecosystem.”

 

To support the expansion, the province is providing $1,598,250 through the Regional Development Program, which helps manufacturers modernize, adopt new technologies, and scale up production. The program has become a cornerstone of Ontario’s economic strategy, particularly in regions where manufacturing plays a central role in job creation and community stability.

 

Since launching in 2019, the Regional Development Program has supported more than 165 projects, leveraging over $2.1 billion in new investments and helping create more than 4,000 jobs across Ontario. The province has also expanded the program through the Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness (AMIC) stream, designed to help advanced manufacturers improve productivity and strengthen supply chains.

 

In addition to direct funding programs, Ontario continues to support manufacturers through initiatives such as the Ontario Made Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit and the newly launched $50 million Ontario Together Trade Fund, which helps businesses capitalize on interprovincial trade opportunities.

 

For Chatham-Kent, the investment represents both economic momentum and renewed confidence in the region’s skilled workforce. With 24 new jobs on the way and major upgrades planned, Dajcor Aluminum’s expansion is expected to contribute to long-term growth in the local manufacturing landscape.

 

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

 

The Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority has issued a flood outlook as warm temperatures, melting snow and significant rainfall are expected to push water levels higher across the region this week.

 

The advisory, released Monday afternoon, warns that 15 to 35 millimetres of rain forecast from late Tuesday through Wednesday, combined with above‑freezing temperatures, will lead to rapid snowmelt and increased runoff throughout the watershed.

 

Officials say residents should expect ponding, standing water and localized flooding, particularly in areas where snow and ice continue to block drainage ditches and smaller watercourses. Some smaller waterways may rise enough to spill into nearby low‑lying areas. The authority says it expects to operate the McGregor Creek Diversion Channel in Chatham.

 

The Thames River is also expected to rise. Forecasts indicate the river will likely flood low‑lying flats from Delaware to Thamesville, and water is expected to cover the downtown Chatham riverside sidewalk. Elevated water levels could continue into early next week.

 

The authority says the river remains covered in significant ice — roughly 30 centimetres near Lighthouse Cove and 20 centimetres upstream toward Chatham — and with Lake St. Clair still frozen, conditions are favourable for an ice jam once the river ice begins to move. Ice jams can cause water levels to rise quickly and unpredictably.

 

Officials say the timing of ice breakup is uncertain, but note that past ice‑jam events have pushed water levels back into Chatham high enough to require operation of the 6th Street Dam. The situation will be monitored closely in the coming days.

 

Residents are urged to stay away from rivers, streams and drainage ditches, as rising water and unstable ice create hazardous conditions. The authority warns against entering flooded areas or driving through water‑covered roads, and advises keeping children, pets and livestock away from waterways.

 

The flood outlook remains in effect until Feb. 19.