News and Notices
Media Release - Special Meeting of County Council called for Wednesday, November 6
Media Release
Cobourg, ON – November 4, 2024 – A Special Meeting of Northumberland County Council will take place on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 at 1:30 p.m.
The meeting will begin in closed session, as permitted under the Municipal Act Section 239. (2.f), in order to address matters pertaining to advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications relating to 310 Division Street, Cobourg.
After the closed session, the meeting will move into open session for public access, as Council discusses 310 Division Street, the County’s Emergency Care Establishment License Application with the Town of Cobourg, and shelter services.
The public may attend the open session in-person in Council Chambers at 555 Courthouse Road, Cobourg, view the Council meeting via live stream at Northumberland.ca/Council, or join by phone using Zoom Conference technology by calling 1-855-703-8985, entering the Meeting ID: 893 9217 7582, and entering the Passcode: 828039.
All Council agendas are available at Northumberland.ca/Council.
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For more information:
Kate Campbell
Director, Communications
Northumberland County
Phone: 905-372-3329 x2335
Email: campbellk@northumberland.ca
Web: northumberland.ca
About Northumberland County
Located on the traditional territory of the Mississauga, Northumberland County is a thriving community just one hour east of Toronto along Highway 401, with easy access to urban centres to the north, east and west. As the upper tier level of municipal government for the region, Northumberland County’s vision is to bring together people, partnerships and possibilities for a strong and vibrant Northumberland. Our community includes seven distinct yet complementary municipalities, with County Council comprised of the Mayors of each of these member municipalities:
• Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
• Municipality of Brighton
• Town of Cobourg
• Township of Cramahe
• Township of Hamilton
• Municipality of Port Hope
• Municipality of Trent Hills
Media Release - Northumberland County hosts ninth annual Survivor Night honouring first responders and cardiac arrest survivors
Media Release
Cobourg, ON – October 23, 2024 – Last night, first responders and survivors of cardiac arrest came together for the ninth annual Survivor Night ceremony. During this event, Lightning Bolt Awards were presented to 95 first responders in recognition of their outstanding efforts in supporting the successful resuscitation of individuals experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in 2023.
Hosted by Northumberland Paramedics, Survivor Night serves as a meaningful opportunity to reconnect survivors and families with first responders who attended their emergency. Survivors like Mike Efford, who collapsed while out for a walk with his wife. Or Christopher Case, who woke from sleep with severe chest pain and required urgent assistance. Or Kirk Lewis, who experienced a heaviness in his chest while working in his yard.
In all, 19 stories of survival were shared last evening, each reflecting a Chain of Survival involving collaboration between bystanders, and different emergency service organizations, leading to positive health outcomes.
“We are incredibly proud of the work our first responders do every day,” states Northumberland Paramedics Chief Susan Brown. “Each year, Northumberland emergency services teams respond to tens of thousands of calls for help. Events like Survivor Night allow us to formally recognize the life-saving impacts of these first responders, and celebrate the strong community bonds formed through these critical encounters.”
Northumberland County Councillor Mandy Martin, delivering remarks on behalf of Council, echoed this sentiment, saying, “Our first responders are a key pillar of our community’s safety and well-being. Their commitment to serving the public under immense pressure is truly remarkable. Survivor Night not only highlights the training and expertise of these professionals, but also serves as a testament to the fact that when we need them most, as a community – they will be there to answer the call.”
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For more information:
Kate Campbell
Director, Communications and Information Technology
Northumberland County
Phone: 905-372-3329 x2335
Email: campbellk@northumberland.ca
Web: www.northumberland.ca
About Northumberland County
Located on the traditional territory of the Mississauga, Northumberland County is a thriving community just one hour east of Toronto along Highway 401, with easy access to urban centres to the north, east and west. As the upper tier level of municipal government for the region, Northumberland County’s vision is to bring together people, partnerships and possibilities for a strong and vibrant Northumberland. Our community includes seven distinct yet complementary municipalities, with County Council comprised of the Mayors of each of these member municipalities:
• Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
• Municipality of Brighton
• Town of Cobourg
• Township of Cramahe
• Township of Hamilton
• Municipality of Port Hope
• Municipality of Trent Hills
Survivor Mike Efford with first responder team
Survivor Christopher Case with first responder team
Survivor Kirk Lewis with first responder team
Media Release - BECN recognizes Small Business Week with bi-annual opening of $3,500 micro grant applications
Media Release
Cobourg, ON – October 21, 2024 – Business owners in Northumberland County are invited to apply for a free micro grant of up to $3,500 through the Starter Company Growth Program, offered by the Business and Entrepreneurship Centre Northumberland (BECN) and supported by the Government of Ontario. This program, which accepts applications twice per year, is designed to help small businesses fuel their growth and development. In celebration of Small Business Week, recognized in Northumberland from October 20th to 26th, applications for the program have now launched and will be accepted until November 22nd.
“This Small Business Week, the BECN team is excited to launch applications for our Starter Company Growth Program,” states BECN Business Consultant Kailyn Coupland. “This program is designed to help foster business expansion and support budding small businesses in our community. Participants will receive free financial support, training, mentorship, and expert guidance to help them achieve their goals.”
As the primary hub for small business insights, strategies, and educational support in Northumberland, the BECN offers a wealth of free programs and resources aimed at empowering entrepreneurs. Their extensive offerings include various development and growth initiatives, providing access to micro grants, networking opportunities, conferences, workshops, seminars and more.
Applications are now open for small businesses in the early stages of growth, that have been in operation in Northumberland County for 6 months or more. Business owners interested in applying must submit their applications online by November 22, 2024. To apply, business owners must complete an application form and submit a virtual interview recording, showcasing their business and personality. Training for successful applicants will commence in January.
Please note that space in this program is limited, and the application process is competitive; not all applicants will secure funding.
To apply for the Small Company Growth Program or to explore BECN’s range of services for small business owners, visit BECN.ca.
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For more information:
Kate Campbell
Director of Communications
Northumberland County
Phone: 905-372-3329 x2335
Email: campbellk@northumberland.ca
Web: Northumberland.ca
About BECN
The Business & Entrepreneurship Centre (BECN) is the leading source for business information, strategy, resources, and education for entrepreneurs and small business owners in Northumberland. A service delivered by Northumberland County in partnership with the Province of Ontario, the BECN offers micro grants, free consultations, training, information and resources, and workshops and seminars for community members thinking of starting or expanding a small business in Northumberland.
About Northumberland County
Located on the traditional territory of the Mississauga, Northumberland County is a thriving community just one hour east of Toronto along Highway 401, with easy access to urban centres to the north, east and west. As the upper tier level of municipal government for the region, Northumberland County’s vision is to bring together people, partnerships and possibilities for a strong and vibrant Northumberland. Our community includes seven distinct yet complementary municipalities, with County Council comprised of the Mayors of each of these member municipalities:
• Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
• Municipality of Brighton
• Town of Cobourg
• Township of Cramahe
• Township of Hamilton
• Municipality of Port Hope
• Municipality of Trent Hills
Media Release - Attend the Grand Opening Event for the Port Hope Walk-in Clinic
Media Release
Cobourg, ON – October 18, 2024 – Members of the media and the community are invited to attend the public Grand Opening of the Port Hope Walk-in Clinic.
This special event marks two months since the official launch of this pilot service, delivered as a partnership between Northumberland County and the Community Health Centres of Northumberland. The goal of this clinic is to improve access to health care services for thousands of Northumberland residents who do not currently have a family doctor or nurse practitioner.
Event Details
When: Thursday, October 24, 2024, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Where: 99 Toronto Road, Port Hope, ON
Format:
· Remarks from 6:00 p.m. to 6:20 p.m. by:
· Olena Hankivsky, Northumberland County Deputy Warden and Municipality of Port Hope Mayor
· Taryn Rennicks, Community Health Centres of Northumberland Executive Director
· Dr. Mohamed Lebbe, supporting physician
· Photos from 6:20 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
· Clinic Tours (small groups) from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The Port Hope Walk-in Clinic pilot marks a significant step forward in addressing the primary care needs of Northumberland County residents. This event celebrates the community’s innovation and the collaborative efforts that have made this initiative possible.
Join us to see the clinic space and meet team members behind these important services.
For more information about this event as well as clinic services, please visit Northumberland.ca/PortHopeClinic.
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For more information:
Kate Campbell
Director, Communications and Information Technology
Northumberland County
Phone: 905-372-3329 x2335
Email: campbellk@northumberland.ca
About Northumberland County
Located on the traditional territory of the Mississauga, Northumberland County is a thriving community just one hour east of Toronto along Highway 401, with easy access to urban centres to the north, east and west. As the upper tier level of municipal government for the region, Northumberland County’s vision is to bring together people, partnerships and possibilities for a strong and vibrant Northumberland. Our community includes seven distinct yet complementary municipalities, with County Council comprised of the Mayors of each of these member municipalities:
• Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
• Municipality of Brighton
• Town of Cobourg
• Township of Cramahe
• Township of Hamilton
• Municipality of Port Hope
• Municipality of Trent Hills
Media Release - Update on progress to open new licensed child care spaces for Northumberland families by year-end
Media Release
Cobourg, ON – October 17, 2024 –Northumberland County and community partners are making steady progress on facility renovations to open new licensed child care spaces by the end of this year. These spaces, part of a broader expansion effort funded by Northumberland County in partnership with the Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario, will help meet the high demand for child care in our community, particularly in priority areas identified through the County’s Early Learning and Child Care Service Plan.
“All partners are striving to complete work and get identified locations open as quickly as possible to address the urgent demand for child care in our community,” says Early Years Services Manager Lesley Patterson. “While some plans have faced delays, our goal remains to open the majority of these 181 spaces before the end of this year.”
Locations set for completion by the end of 2024 include:
· Ruth Clarke Activity Centre in Port Hope: 70 new child care spaces, operated by Ganaraska Child Care
· 161 Old Hastings Road in Warkworth, Trent Hills: 47 new child care spaces, operated by YMCA Northumberland
· Northumberland Centre for Individual Studies in Cobourg: 15 new child care spaces, operated by YMCA Northumberland
A fourth location, the Canton Hub in Port Hope, was also identified as part of child care expansion plans for 2024, to be operated by YMCA Northumberland. However, this project has been delayed due to unexpected building code updates and licensing-related challenges, largely owing to the age and configuration of the building. A revised project budget is currently under development. Once all costing information has been received, partners will reassess plans and timelines, and provide an update to the community.
In 2023, the waitlist for licensed child care in Northumberland County grew by 60%, with 3,000 children waiting for spaces. In response, the County aims to add 404 new infant-to-age-six spaces by 2026, prioritizing underserved neighborhoods and high-need areas identified through population demographics and socio-economic factors. These expansion plans align with provincial targets for the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) system – to make high-quality, affordable, flexible, and inclusive child care accessible to more families.
“Opening these spaces is a top priority for everyone involved,” emphasizes Lesley Patterson. “We are working together to meet all licensing requirements, regulatory standards, and quality benchmarks so that families can count on having reliable, inclusive child care close to home.”
These efforts build on the progress made in 2023 with the addition of 10 infant child care spaces at the Brighton Children’s Centre, in partnership with the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board. Expansion plans, continuing into 2026, show the strong commitment of all levels of government and local child care providers to support families and create important early childhood development opportunities in the community.
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For more information:
Kate Campbell
Director, Communications and Information Technology
Northumberland County
Phone: 905-372-3329 x2335
Email: campbellk@northumberland.ca
About Northumberland County
Located on the traditional territory of the Mississauga, Northumberland County is a thriving community just one hour east of Toronto along Highway 401, with easy access to urban centres to the north, east and west. As the upper tier level of municipal government for the region, Northumberland County’s vision is to bring together people, partnerships and possibilities for a strong and vibrant Northumberland. Our community includes seven distinct yet complementary municipalities, with County Council comprised of the Mayors of each of these member municipalities:
• Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
• Municipality of Brighton
• Town of Cobourg
• Township of Cramahe
• Township of Hamilton
• Municipality of Port Hope
• Municipality of Trent Hills
Media Release -Northumberland County Council members roll up their sleeves as Paramedics urge Influenza Vaccination
Media Release
Cobourg, ON – October 16, 2024 – As flu season approaches, Northumberland Paramedics are urging residents to protect themselves and their loved ones by getting their annual influenza vaccination. To highlight the importance of this simple yet effective measure, Northumberland County Council members Mandy Martin and John Logel today rolled up their sleeves and received their flu shots. By getting vaccinated, these council members aim to encourage residents to take advantage of local flu clinics and pharmacy services that provide the vaccine.
“Getting vaccinated is one of the easiest ways to safeguard against the flu, which can have serious health impacts, especially for the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing conditions,” sates Northumberland Paramedics Chief Susan Brown. “By taking action now, we can help reduce the spread of the virus and keep our community healthier through this flu season.”
Flu season typically runs from late fall to early spring. Residents are encouraged to get their flu shots as soon as possible, as it takes two weeks following immunization to develop full protection. As immunity wanes over time and flu strains change, it is important to get the flu shot every year.
Councillor Martin, who was the first to receive her flu shot at today’s session, states “Getting vaccinated is one of the most effective ways to protect not just ourselves, but our whole community, from the effects of the flu virus. I encourage everyone who is eligible to take a few minutes to get their flu shot and help prevent the spread of the virus this season.”
Why get the flu shot?
· Reduces Risk of Serious Illness: The flu vaccine can lower the chance of severe symptoms, hospitalization, and complications like pneumonia.
· Protects Vulnerable Populations: Vaccination helps shield those at higher risk, such as seniors, children, and people with chronic conditions.
· Helps Reduce Strain on Healthcare: By preventing illness, we can minimize the burden on our healthcare system during the flu season.
· Safe and Effective: Flu vaccines are rigorously tested and updated annually to match circulating virus strains.
How to reduce risk of transmission this holiday season
· Stay up to date with immunizations: Make sure you are vaccinated against Covid-19, the flu and RSV if eligible.
· Stay home when sick: If you feel unwell, it’s best to avoid contact with others.
· Wear a mask in crowded spaces: Consider wearing a mask indoors, especially in busy places. If you are recovering from an illness, wear a mask for 10 days after your symptoms start.
· Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands often and clean frequently touched surfaces regularly.
How to get vaccinated
Residents across Northumberland County can receive their flu shots at participating pharmacies, clinics, and healthcare providers. For a list of local pharmacies providing the Influenza Vaccine and COVID-19 Vaccine, visit https://bit.ly/4h8Khu8.
For eligible children six months to five years of age, the Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit will be providing COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines starting in November. These appointments can be booked by calling the Health Unit at 1-688-888-4577 ext. 1507.
Photos Attached
Photo 1: Councillor Mandy Martin receiving a flu shot from Northumberland Paramedics Community Paramedic Coordinator Kim Wilkinson.
Photo 2: Councillor John Logel receiving a flu shot from Northumberland Paramedics Community Paramedic Coordinator Kim Wilkinson.
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For more information:
Kate Campbell
Director, Communications and Information Technology
Northumberland County
Phone: 905-372-3329 x2335
Email: campbellk@northumberland.ca
About Northumberland County
Located on the traditional territory of the Mississauga, Northumberland County is a thriving community just one hour east of Toronto along Highway 401, with easy access to urban centres to the north, east and west. As the upper tier level of municipal government for the region, Northumberland County’s vision is to bring together people, partnerships and possibilities for a strong and vibrant Northumberland. Our community includes seven distinct yet complementary municipalities, with County Council comprised of the Mayors of each of these member municipalities:
• Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
• Municipality of Brighton
• Town of Cobourg
• Township of Cramahe
• Township of Hamilton
• Municipality of Port Hope
• Municipality of Trent Hills
Media Release - Entering the ’Home Stretch’ - Construction of new long-term care home, archives & museum enters final stage, with updated schedule and budget in place
Media release
Cobourg, ON – October 7, 2024 – The construction of the new Golden Plough Lodge & Northumberland County Archives and Museum (GPL & NCAM) has reached a significant milestone. The project is now 75 per cent complete and firmly moving into the final phase of construction.
"We are entering an exciting phase of the project as finishing contractors begin work onsite,” states Director of Public Works Denise Marshall. “Northumberland County and its construction partners are determined to deliver a facility that residents, staff, and the community will be proud of.”
Initially launched in December 2020 with a projected completion date of December 2022, nation-wide challenges in the construction sector stemming from the global pandemic have impacted original projections. Factors such as material cost increases, skilled labor shortages, high interest rates, inflation, supply chain disruptions, and fluctuating oil and gas prices have required adjustments to the timeline and budget.
Following constructive negotiations, Northumberland County and contractor Matheson Constructors have reached an agreement on an updated budget and schedule to ensure the successful delivery of this vital community project. The revised occupancy date is set for June 24, 2025, at which time furnishing, set-up, and touch-ups will take place. Residents are expected to move into the new facility in the fall of 2025.
There is also a revised project budget. This budget adjustment incorporates additional funds for contractor and subcontractor work, project administration and design changes, as well as elevated interest rates on financing, for a revised total project budget of $145 million, up from $115 million. The County will fund these increases through a financing arrangement with Infrastructure Ontario as well as a draw from reserves. Staff will provide a report on the breakdown of this costing at the December meeting of the Public Works Committee, following a 60-day period requested by the contractor due to commercial sensitivity.
This amended budget reflects current economic conditions. In 2022, the Province introduced a program specifically aimed at mitigating the widespread cost escalations for construction of long-term care facilities, so that cost would not become a barrier to the launch of these critically required capital development projects. While the Golden Plough Lodge redevelopment project, launched in December 2020, predates the eligibility period for this program – which is limited to projects starting on or after April 1, 2022 – the pressures created by the current economic environment are nevertheless clear.
"While facing unforeseen challenges, Northumberland County has ensured diligent management of the project's financial responsibilities, ensuring all invoices have been promptly addressed throughout the lifespan of the project," states County Warden Brian Ostrander. "In the face of industry-wide cost escalations, Council has authorized an updated agreement as necessary to ensure compensation for subcontractors and the delivery of this vital facility. With this agreement now in place, the County is fully focused on the final outcome: a facility that meets the evolving needs of long-term care residents, responds to increasing local demand for long-term care spaces, and – through new museum and archival amenities – supports the preservation and promotion of Northumberland’s cultural heritage."
For more information about this project, please visit Northumberland.ca/ GPL_NCAM.
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For more information:
Kate Campbell
Director, Communications and Information Technology
Northumberland County
Phone: 905-372-3329 x2335
Email: campbellk@northumberland.ca
Web: www.northumberland.ca
About Northumberland County
Located on the traditional territory of the Mississauga, Northumberland County is a thriving community just one hour east of Toronto along Highway 401, with easy access to urban centres to the north, east and west. As the upper tier level of municipal government for the region, Northumberland County’s vision is to bring together people, partnerships and possibilities for a strong and vibrant Northumberland. Our community includes seven distinct yet complementary municipalities, with County Council comprised of the Mayors of each of these member municipalities:
• Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
• Municipality of Brighton
• Town of Cobourg
• Township of Cramahe
• Township of Hamilton
• Municipality of Port Hope
• Municipality of Trent Hills
Media Release - Township Announces Cancellation of 2024-2025 Ice Season
Media Release
September 27, 2024
Grafton, ON - At a Special Emergency Council Meeting on Thursday, September 26, 2024 the Council of the Township of Alnwick/Haldimand voted to cancel the 2024-2025 Ice Season due to equipment failure at the Haldimand Memorial Arena in Grafton.
Despite staff’s best efforts to prepare for a successful ice season, the arena floor piping began leaking after start-up operations began the week of September 22, 2024.
Staff and contractors were successful in isolating the initial leak, however additional leaks appeared when start-up operations resumed. Due to the nature of the leaks and aging arena infrastructure, staff and contractors were unable to isolate and identify the location of the new leaks. The refrigeration plant was shut down as a result to avoid further mechanical failures and possible environmental concerns.
The Township is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community and environment. Following the decision of Council at the September 26, 2024 meeting, staff will be contacting all user groups to inform them of the cancellation of the 2024-2025 ice season and assist with finding alternative arrangements, where possible. Staff will also be exploring options for alternative activities and events in the facility during the winter months. These will be announced in the coming weeks.
To read the complete staff report, please visit the Township’s website at www.ahtwp.ca.
Residents can also watch the Council meeting on the Township’s YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@alnwickhaldimandtownshipah6784
For more information, please contact:
Dave Dawson, CAO/Fire Chief The Corporation of the Township of Alnwick/Haldimand PO Box 70, 10836 County Rd 2 Grafton, ON K0K 2G0 T: 905-349-2822 E: ddawson@ahtwp.ca
*Past News and Notices have been archived.