NOTICE: The Archie Dillon Sportsplex pool will be closed from August 27 to September 11 for our annual maintenance shutdown. Projects include paint, tile repair, pool cleaning, and more.
Public swims will resume on Monday, September 12 (Private lessons begin September 11)
The office will remain open Monday to Friday from 8:00am-4:00pm.
We'd like to thank our staff for an amazing summer - because of your hard work and dedication, 350 people have had the privilege of learning to swim. Well done team!
Click here for the new Fall 2022 swim schedule.
Amanda Dyer
A water meter is a device that measures the amount of water used in a building that is supplied by the public water supply system. In Timmins, commercial and industrial property owners are required to install a water meter. Residential property owners can also choose to install a water meter. For residents with a large number of rooms, there can be potential benefit from being on a water meter if there is careful water consumption.
Water meters are purchased by the property owner through Service Timmins. Installation, maintenance and repair of the water meter is the responsibility of the property owner and must be carried out by a contractor approved by the City. No adjustments or reductions can be made to your water bill due to excessive water usage. Small home repair concerns like a leaking or running toilet, leaking faucets, leaking washing machine or dishwasher can have a dramatic impact on a property owner’s quarterly water bill.
It’s important to ensure an installed water meter is working correctly and that any repairs, like a leaking outdoor faucet, are made quickly. For property owners with rental units on a water meter system, it is particularly important that tenants practice sensible water use and communicate any potential water concerns quickly so that repairs can be made.
Finally, metered water is read and billed quarterly. It is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure that their water meter is accessible and can be clearly read.
There are numerous potential benefits to having or installing a water meter. Water meters can help property owners be more accountable for water consumption; they can lead to better leak detection and repair; they can result in more accurate water bills; and, they can help reduce daily water usage, which is good for the environment.
Learn more at: https://bit.ly/3e8Td77
Amanda Dyer
It’s been just over one year since City Council gave the green light to Timmins’ first-ever Community Safety and Well-Being Plan (the Plan) with the goal of achieving a sustainable community where everyone feels safe and has a sense of belonging. The Plan was robust and outlined a framework of four strategic priorities that, through public engagement, had been identified as primary concerns for the community.
Now, one year later, the Systems Leadership Committee responsible for overseeing the Plan are highlighting some of the advances made towards addressing homelessness, mental health and addictions, and overall safety and well-being.
“From the very beginning, this plan was based on community collaboration,” says Community Strategies Coordinator Meagan Baranyk. “The Plan cannot work unless it is considered a shared responsibility tackled by an engaged group of service providers, organizations and residents. After a year, we’ve seen an increase in agency collaboration; partnerships are being forged to share resources and improve care; and, programs are being developed that recognize how each priority interacts and impacts the community.”
Over the last year, Cochrane District Social Services Administration Board (CDSSAB) and Living Space have been working towards implementing a new program called the Homeless Individuals and Families Information System (HIFIS) that measures the number of people on the street and in shelters, including their length of stay. The program will allow service providers to access real-time data to coordinate care services and ultimately supports CDSSAB’s work as “Community Entity” for the federal government’s Reaching Home program. Work done through Reaching Home will build on the connection between Living Space operations and potential housing solutions to guide decisions and focus on sustainable solutions to homelessness.
With the opening of Safe Health Site Timmins (SHST) in early July, Timmins’ leapt to the forefront of the proactive reduction of opioid poisonings and overdose deaths. It is a first for Timmins and was preceded by an extensive education campaign to help address community concerns and reduce misinformation. Timmins and District Hospital (TADH) and Timmins and Area Drug Strategy (TADS) have been instrumental in the operation of SHST and, overall, there has been an increase in provincial government funding to increase specialized addictions treatment at both the TADH and Jubilee Centre. A needs assessment and feasibility study for a permanent Consumption Treatment Service has been completed and the application process, including a source of funding, is now underway.
TADS has also started work to engage people with lived experience navigating service systems related to mental health and substance abuse. Earlier this year, the People with Lived Experience (PWLE) action group was initiated to increase the representation and active involvement of persons with lived experience, since their expertise and guidance is invaluable in providing community support. TADS members representing over 25 agencies have also begun planning for recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) in Timmins. IOAD is the world's largest annual campaign to end overdose, honour those who have died, and acknowledge the grief of friends and family. IOAD takes place August 31, 2022.
“We’ve learned a lot in our first year of navigating the Plan,” says Systems Leadership Committee Co-Chair Jamie Clark. “It is a community plan and we’ve been aided by a number of local organizations like the Timmins Police Service, Downtown Timmins BIA, and non-profits like the Anti-Hunger Coalition who have similar goals and key commitments. It’s rewarding to see the community come together and promote an overall sense of inclusion, understanding, diversity and well-being. All four priorities remain in place as we move forward and we intend on providing quarterly updates as we reach more targeted outcomes.”
When asked if he felt the Plan was working Clark added, “Anytime we can point towards more collaboration and an increase in partnerships amongst our service providers, it’s a win. Collaboration reduces repetition, makes more efficient use of resources, and makes navigating the service system easier for our most vulnerable. Each strategic priority is connected and impacts the community’s overall safety and well-being.”
Read the full annual update and learn more about the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan online at Timmins.ca. This is Timmins’ plan and together we are making it a success!
Amanda Dyer
**Provided by dynaCERT Inc.**
dynaCERT Inc. (TSX: DYA) (OTCQX: DYFSF) (FRA: DMJ) ("dynaCERT" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that dynaCERT is installing ten (10) HydraGEN™ Units on a variety of diesel-powered vehicles for the City of Timmins (“Timmins” or the “City”) in Ontario, Canada.
Timmins has committed to run a very comprehensive pilot programme to determine the economic, social, and governance (“ESG”) objectives of the City. The deployment of the benefits of dynaCERT’s Technology, which are designed to reduce fuel consumption and carbon and NOx emissions, while reducing the Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG) footprint of diesel vehicles, will be closely monitored on vehicles employed by the City of Timmins. Both fuel reductions and emissions will be meticulously monitored with dynaCERT’s HydraLytica™ proprietary telematics technology and other accepted methods of measurement for such purposes.
Deployment of these innovative technologies commences in September 2022 on an initial selection of the Timmins Fleet to determine emission reductions and fuel savings specific to their current utilization. Buses, co-collection trucks, landfill equipment, and Public Works diesel-powered equipment will have HydraGEN™ Technology installed.
Timmins recognizes the immediate imperative of utilizing commercially available technologies to reduce its Carbon Footprint and welcomes the Company’s patented HydraGEN™ Technology, which was granted the Smart Sustainable Company Rating in furtherance of the United for Smart Sustainable Cities Programme (U4SSC) of the United Nations.
Timmins is a City surrounded by a progressive mining and forestry community and distinguishes itself as being dynaCERT’s first City in Canada where the need for such GHG savings technologies requires the robust ability to function in Canada’s severe Northern climate on a year-round basis. dynaCERT and the City of Timmins have agreed that, for such purposes, the pilot programme will run well into the Canadian winter months to ensure compliance with the City’s short term and long term GHG objectives.
Ken Krcel, Director of Public Works and Environmental Services for the City of Timmins, stated, “We’re interested in finding a sustainable solution for lowering our GHG emissions without compromising performance or service standards. The opportunity to collaborate with dynaCERT allows us to gather real time data on how our diesel vehicles will perform in colder temperatures with the applied technology.”
Scott Tam, Manager of Environmental Services for the City of Timmins, stated, “The City of Timmins strives to be a leader of sustainability in northeastern Ontario. As a member of the Partners for Climate Protection Program, the City of Timmins has developed a Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan to reduce GHG emissions and this project will help reach our reduction goals.”
Jim Payne, President & CEO of dynaCERT, stated, “On behalf of dynaCERT, I am looking forward to the deployment of our HydraGEN™ Technology with the progressive City of Timmins. Our proprietary and patented HydraGEN™ Technology is designed to reduce fuel consumption in internal combustion engines and reduce Carbon and NOx emissions, along with the proposed future benefits gained with dynaCERT Carbon Credits all of which is so important in providing a global solution to reduce pollution. Progressive governments, such as the officials of the City Council of Timmins and the City’s entire team of broadminded trailblazers are all fighting a noble battle against air pollution. dynaCERT warmly congratulates the City of Timmins and its citizens and leaders.”
About The City of Timmins
The City of Timmins is centrally located in Northeastern Ontario and serves as a regional hub for approximately 117,000 people. Known as the “City with a Heart of Gold”, Timmins is home to a diverse population of about 41,000 residents within an area that is considered one of the richest gold-mining districts in the world. Timmins is ideally situated for the exploration and production of critical minerals, which are integral to the electric vehicle supply chain, green manufacturing and decarbonization. For more information on City services and programs, visit www.Timmins.ca.
About dynaCERT Inc.
dynaCERT Inc. manufactures and distributes Carbon Emission Reduction Technology for use with internal combustion engines. As part of the growing global hydrogen economy, our patented technology creates hydrogen and oxygen on-demand through a unique electrolysis system and supplies these gases through the air intake to enhance combustion, resulting in lower carbon emissions and greater fuel efficiency. Our technology is designed for use with many types and sizes of diesel engines used in on-road vehicles, reefer trailers, off-road construction, power generation, mining and forestry equipment, marine vessels and railroad locomotives. Website: www.dynaCERT.com.
Reader Advisory
Except for statements of historical fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. In particular, forward-looking information in this press release includes, but is not limited to, the information related to the City of Timmins which cannot be independently verified. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. We cannot guarantee future results, performance of achievements. Consequently, there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking information.
Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Some of the risks and other factors that could cause the results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information include, but are not limited to: uncertainty as to whether our strategies and business plans will yield the expected benefits; availability and cost of capital; the ability to identify and develop and achieve commercial success for new products and technologies; the level of expenditures necessary to maintain and improve the quality of products and services; changes in technology and changes in laws and regulations; the uncertainty of the emerging hydrogen economy; including the hydrogen economy moving at a pace not anticipated; our ability to secure and maintain strategic relationships and distribution agreements; and the other risk factors disclosed under our profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned that this list of risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive.
The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. We undertake no duty to update any of the forward-looking information to conform such information to actual results or to changes in our expectations except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.
Amanda Dyer
Learn more about August’s By-Law of the Month
A by-law is a rule or law that is put in place by the City of Timmins to ensure that our community remains safe and orderly. The City of Timmins Enforcement Services Division is responsible for enforcing our by-laws. Staff enforce by-laws by investigating complaints and responding to the concerns of citizens.
Each month, we'll explore a different by-law and what it means for you. This month, we're looking at the Temporary & Small Accessory Structures By-law 2016-7898.
It’s important to accessorize
A small accessory structure is a detached building or structure that measures less than 108 sq. feet located on your property and related to your main building like a garden shed. It can’t be used for human habitat, so it’s not a structure you can live in. Under the Municipal Act, the City is authorized to pass by-laws regulating the construction and placement of structures, fences, and signs. But why? Small accessory structures and temporary tent shelters (that cover your car in winter) are still subject to rules for property standards and zoning. Property standards help keep neighborhoods clean and safe. Zoning by-laws help the City manage land use and future development. Where you or your neighbour place a temporary structure can impact sight lines and resident safety. Even small structures need to be built safely to avoid injury or property damage.
Get your permit
Everyone erecting a small accessory structure or temporary tent shelter is required to get a “City of Timmins Small Accessory Structure/Temporary Tent Shelter” permit from Enforcement Services … and you need a separate permit for each structure or temporary tent shelter. A Municipal Law Enforcement Officer can inspect your property and structure to make sure you’re in compliance with any requirements.
And the requirements are …
Your small accessory structure needs to be set back 4.5 m. from any lot line and 1.2 m. from your main building. This applies to properties in a residential zone. The distance can change if you are in a different zone like rural or urban. Small accessory structures should also be no more than 1 storey in height in a residential zone … you’re not reinventing the CN Tower. Your small accessory structure should be maintained in good condition with safe surfaces like walkways and steps.
Your temporary tent structure needs to be pre-fabricated of tubular steel frame with a flame-resistant fabric or cover. It needs to be placed so that snow accumulation from the roof will not fall on adjacent properties. Temporary tent structures placed in your driveway or at the front of your property can’t be erected or set up between April 30th and October 1st of the same year. A temporary tent structure can be set-up year-round if it’s placed at the rear or interior side yard if it meets the conditions set out in the City of Timmins Zoning By-law. It can only be used for storing a vehicle and can’t exceed 240 sq. m. in size. You can only have a maximum of two temporary tent shelters on one property and can’t run any power or heat to the shelter.
How to get your permit
You can download and print a “Small Accessory Structure or Yearly Temporary Tent Shelter” application online at Timmins.ca. Take your completed application to Service Timmins and pay the applicable permit fee. Permits for small accessory structures cost $50.00. Permits for a temporary tent shelter are $15 for a seasonal shelter or $25 for a yearly structure. This is a one-time fee except in the case of a temporary tent shelter used to cover your car in winter. Your permit will expire May 1st and will need to be renewed the following year.
For more information call Service Timmins at 705-264-1331 or visit them in person at City Hall.
Amanda Dyer
City Council has appointed Deputy Mayor Kristin Murray as Mayor ahead of the next municipal election on October 24, 2022. The appointment was of historic significance as Murray is notably the City’s first person of colour to serve on council and now as Mayor.
Murray is of Jamaican and Cree ancestry and is a registered member of Chapleau Cree First Nation. She was first elected as Councillor for Ward 5 in 2018. As a new councillor, Murray’s representation of the city’s diverse population brought invaluable lived experience to council.
“I am thrilled to have the support of my fellow councillors as I carry out the term as Mayor,” says Mayor Kristin Murray. “From the COVID-19 pandemic to the election of George Pirie as our local Member of Provincial Parliament, this term has been both challenging and exciting.
“On a personal level, I am humbled to be part of history as I become the city’s first person of colour to serve as Mayor. Let it be known that I don’t want to be known only as the first person of colour to hold this position. I am so much more than that. I am a community member who genuinely cares and wants the best for our region. We have some complex issues to address and I hope to contribute some innovative approaches to meeting our community’s needs. We also have some amazing projects underway and I am excited to help encourage the growth and development of Timmins and area.”
Murray will now serve as Timmins’ mayor until the city elects a new mayor and council later this fall. The resulting vacancy created by Murray’s appointment is within 90 days before voting day of the next regular election and does not need to be filled as per Ontario’s Municipal Act, 2001. City council will appoint a new deputy mayor at the next regular council meeting.
For more information on the 2022 municipal election, visit our Elections Page.
Amanda Dyer
On October 24, Timmins will elect its next mayor, ward councillors and school board trustees. Voting in the municipal election is an important part of our democracy and helps ensure a thriving community and local government that best serves its residents. Unfortunately, voter turnout is typically low for municipal elections. The City of Timmins is working to make voting more convenient, easily accessible, and provide information about the upcoming election so that you are prepared and informed.
Eligible voters are included on the voter list provided by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC). Names included on the list will receive a Voter Notification Card in the mail with a letter outlining the date to vote, including advanced polls and polling station. If you have moved homes since the last municipal election in 2018, you can verify that your mailing address and information is correct at voterlookup.ca. Voterlookup.ca is a secure database that can be used to update necessary information online. Opportunities for eligible voters to update their information in-person will be provided at a later date.
The City of Timmins is also in the process of hiring election officials. Residents 18 years of age or older as of election day who are eligible to work in Canada can apply for a temporary paid position. The application form is available for download today at Timmins.ca.
For more information on third party advertising, election jobs, ward information, or guides for both voters and candidates, visit the City’s Elections page.
Amanda Dyer
Registration for fall swim lessons starts Tuesday, August 23 by phone or in person with Service Timmins. Residents are reminded to expect increased wait times when registering by phone. A higher than normal call volume is anticipated.
Once again, Service Timmins will add the option of registering in person with a dedicated line for registrations. Staff will be at full complement answering phones, but a fast busy may occur once phone lines reach capacity. Residents are encouraged to use the call back feature to have Service Timmins return their call without losing their place in sequence, which is an alternative to waiting in queue.
Fall swim registration starts at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 23. To make the process even faster, residents can familiarize themselves with the programs and requirements. Click HERE to view the full fall swim program.
Amanda Dyer
The City of Timmins has taken over the duties of hiring local crossing guards to help keep our children safe during the school year.
“We are looking to hire 35 crossing guards, in every area of the City”, said Steph Palmateer, City Clerk. “This is a great opportunity for anyone looking for a part-time job in their own neighbourhood.”
The City of Timmins has taken over the management of the crossing guard contract after the all the submissions from the RFPs came in over budget.
With the new school year started at the end of August, the City of looking to get everyone in place before that time. The deadline for applications, which can be submitted to Human Resources, is July 20, 2022.
Lisa Greer
The flags at Timmins City Hall will be lowered for the remainder of the week in honour of Alan Pope, following his passing at the age of 76.
Alan Pope was served as an Alderman from 1973-1974. He was a member of the inaugural council of the City of Timmins in 1973. In the 1977 provincial election, Alan was appointed as MPP for Cochrane South. In 1981, he was promoted to Minister of Natural Resources.
Alan Pope was an advocate for the City of Timmins and Northern Ontario. He continued his legal practice in the city with Racicot, Maisonneuve, Labelle, Gosselin. In 2006, Alan wrote a report on the Kashechewan Crisis, recommending that residents of the community be relocated to a new reserve site near Timmins.
The City would like to extend their condolences to the Pope family, including his wife and two children.
Lisa Greer
A By-law is a rule or law that is put in place by the City of Timmins to ensure that our community remains safe and orderly. The City of Timmins Enforcement Services Division is responsible for enforcing our by-laws. Staff enforce by-laws by investigating complaints and responding to the concerns of citizens.
Each month, we'll explore a different by-law and what it means for you. This month, we're looking at the City's Dog and Cat By-law 2021-8593
The purr-fect number
Did you know that the City’s Dog and Cat By-law limits the number of cats and dogs you can keep in a single-family dwelling? Each person (or family) in one house or unit can keep 6 domestic cats and 4 domestic dogs. If the property has more than 1 dwelling on the parcel of land, like a duplex or an apartment, it’s 2 cats or dogs per unit.
But why? While a house full of furry friends would be arguably delightful, municipalities place restrictions on pet-numbers to cut down on potential problems domesticated dogs or cats can cause. Feces, barking, damage to property and, at worst, aggressive behaviour can become an issue and while your cat may have a quiet purr, the purr-pose of a by-law is to provide a set of rules for the community.
Each furry friend also needs a license that is renewed annually and expires on December 31 of each year and can be purchased at from the Timmins Humane Society, PADS K9 Protection and Detection Services, Spoiled Rotten, or the Timmins Animal Hospital. Service Timmins does not sell cat or dog licenses.
The City’s Enforcement Services Supervisor oversees the contact for animal control, which is contracted and enforced by PADS K9 Protection and Detection Services.
I ran, I ran so far away
No pet owner is allowed to let their dog or cat run at large in the City of Timmins. Dogs should be kept on a leash or under the direct control of a competent person. For the purpose of the By-law, a dog or cat is considered “running at large” if they’re found in any place other than the premises of the owner and not on a leash or under control.
And it stands to reason that letting your dog or cat bite or attack without provocation another person or domestic animal is also not allowed.
We’ve got the scoop on poop
One sentence in the By-law is dedicated to poop, “Every owner or Guardian not being a blind person or disabled person shall immediately remove and dispose of any excrement left by their dog.” The key to understanding this sentence is to focus on what’s missing. Notice that there is no distinction about private or public property. Why? Because dog owners are expected to pick up dog poop everywhere, even in their own yard. Poop stinks and your neighbours have the right to call Service Timmins and make a formal complaint if your yard is full of doggy dumps. No matter where the droppings drop, they need to be picked up and properly disposed of to avoid odor.
Click here to learn more about the City’s Dog and Cat By-law 2021-8593.
Amanda Dyer
The Public Information Centre (PIC) held last evening at the Hoyle Community Centre had approximately 130 residents and stakeholders in attendance. The purpose was to discuss transportation alternatives for the Porcupine River corridor.
The Porcupine River Bridge on Frederick House Lake Rd. was closed last November over concerns of safety and structural integrity. Associated Engineering has presented three (3) possible design options that include replacement of the bridge; permanent detour around the closed structure; or, new road alignment east of the Porcupine River.
Now, the City of Timmins is providing a second opportunity for interested persons to provide comment on each transportation alternative in an online format.
Residents can participate online by viewing the information materials on the City’s project page (https://www.timmins.ca/our_services/roads_and_infrastructure/maintenance_and_repair/porcupine_river_bridge_closure/online_public_information_centre_-_submit_feedback). Comments will be accepted from July 5, 2022 to July 18, 2022. Comments received will be integrated into a re-evaluation of each design alternative before a presentation is made to City council for deliberation.
The City of Timmins thanks residents for their participation in improving its active infrastructure.
Amanda Dyer
A by-law is a rule or law that is put in place by the City of Timmins to ensure that our community remains safe and orderly. The City of Timmins Enforcement Services Division is responsible for enforcing our by-laws. Staff enforce by-laws by investigating complaints and responding to the concerns of citizens.
Each month, we'll explore a different by-law and what it means for you. This month, we're looking at the City's Fire Crackers / Fireworks by-law 1984-2162.
Baby, that’s a firework
Fireworks are low-explosive pyrotechnic devices that are used most commonly for entertainment. A firecracker is also a small explosive device, but its primarily designed to produce a loud noise. In the City of Timmins, the sale and setting off of firecrackers and fireworks is regulated by by-law 1984-2162.
It’s a straightforward by-law. No person shall sell any fire ball, squib, cracker or fireworks on any day of the year within the City of Timmins. A fire ball is a firework that shoots a ball of fire up in the air. A squib are the fireworks that make a large hissing noise as they go off. No person shall set-off or fire any fire ball, squib, cracker or fireworks on any day of the year within the City of Timmins on private or public property.
Fireworks are banned as a safety precaution, especially in areas that are at risk for forest or brush fires or in residential areas where a misfired firework could cause injury or damage to property.
But I’m a professional
When Canada Day rolls around, the city wants to celebrate. Professional firework companies can obtain a permit from the Fire Chief that will allow then to set-off fireworks at a specific time and place as outlined in their permit by a qualified person.
Applications for permits must be submitted in writing at least two weeks in advance to the Timmins Fire Department.
That’ll cost you
If you do decide to sell or set-off fireworks or firecrackers, you would be considered guilty of an offence and if convicted, are liable to a maximum fine of not more than $2,000.
Amanda Dyer
The City of Timmins is encouraging residents to attend a Public Information Centre (PIC) on transportation alternatives for the Porcupine River corridor on Monday, July 4, 2022.
The Porcupine River Bridge on Frederick House Lake Rd. was closed last November over concerns of safety and structural integrity. Since then, the City has been working with Associated Engineering to come up with a permanent solution for the transportation corridor.
Associated Engineering will now present three (3) possible design options that include replacement of the bridge on Frederick House Lake Rd., permanent detour around the closed structure or a new road alignment east of the Porcupine River. This is an important opportunity for residents and interested parties to provide public input on each transportation alternative.
Public Information Centre
Date: Monday, July 4th, 2022
Time: 6:30 p.m. -8:30 p.m.
Location: Hoyle Community Center
25 Hoyle Rd.
Porcupine, ON P0N 1H0
The PIC will consist of an open house format with City staff and technical representatives on hand to answer any questions.
The City of Timmins thanks residents for their participation in improving its active infrastructure.
Amanda Dyer
The City is pedaling forward on plans to re-designate Jubilee Ave. and Theriault Blvd. in order to add dedicated bike lanes to both roads through a busy school and recreation area.
Centre two-way left turn lane signs have been installed along Jubilee Ave. and will be in effect once line painting is completed the week of June 27, 2022. The re-designation project will see Jubilee Ave. reduced to a three-lane road with a dedicated centre turn lane. Road markings for bike lanes will be painted at a later date.
For more information on the re-designation project, visit: https://bit.ly/3HTxURK.
Amanda Dyer
When it comes to climate change, the City’s Environmental Coordinator is specific about what corporate initiatives need to happen now to give Timmins a green future.
“The City needs to lead by example,” says Christina Beaton. “Through our sustainability program, we have achieved success in reducing our corporate electricity consumption, natural gas consumption, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. It’s a start, but we have work to do to encourage community participation in our programs.”
Since 2018, the City has reduced electricity consumption by 9%. Over the same period, the City has reduced natural gas consumption by 16%. The City’s energy intensity, the amount of energy used to provide a service or product, has been reduced by 14%, which far surpasses the overall goal of a 5% reduction over 5 years. The goal now is to maintain or improve this rate of reduction until 2024. The City has also met and surpassed target reductions on GHG emissions with a decline of 15% since 2017.
At last night’s council meeting, the City’s new Climate Change Adaptation Plan was approved. The plan is designed to advance community engagement in long-term planning with the goal of creating a community that is resilient to the risks associated with climate change.
“Yesterday, we had the season’s first special weather statement warning of high temperatures and potential health risks to vulnerable populations,” adds Beaton. “It helped reinforce the need for a comprehensive strategy, led by the City, to help our community deal with climate change risks like extreme heat days, heatwaves, reduced air quality from high temperatures and increased wildfire activity. We are hoping to collaborate with interested residents and community groups as we implement the plan.”
The City’s Community Adaptation Plan will soon be available online. Learn more about the City’s commitment to a sustainable future at: https://www.timmins.ca/our_services/city_hall/environment___sustainability.
Amanda Dyer
Pollinator week is a big deal in the world of bees. It’s an annual celebration that raises awareness about pollinator health and what we can do to protect our local pollinators.
Bee City Timmins is kicking off Pollinator Week this Sunday, June 19 at Gilles Lake. Residents are invited to learn more about how small changes can make a big impact on the health of pollinators like bees, butterflies, bats, birds, and even small mammals. The event runs from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
“Bee City Timmins is excited to celebrate pollinator week with the community” says Environmental Coordinator Christina Beaton. “We have a number of fun activities planned. Residents can make their own seed balls, pick up a seed bookmark, and learn how to grow pollinator-friendly habitats in their own yard. Our pollinator partners will also be on hand, agencies and organizations who support the work of Bee City Timmins. It will be a fun afternoon.”
Why is it important to protect our pollinators? The world’s pollinator populations, the number of bees, butterflies, bats, and more are in decline. This is mainly thought to be a result of a loss in feeding and nesting habitats. As much as 75% to 95% of the flowering plants on earth need pollination from pollinators. The food that we eat like fruits, vegetables, and nuts all require pollination. The good news is that creating pollinator friendly habitats is fairly easy, with minimal effort. Supporting pollinator nesting is even easier and lets residents leave their lawn mower and rake in the shed for a little bit longer.
Bee City Timmins looks forward to sharing more about our pollinators and how we can protect them this Sunday, June 19 at Gilles Lake.
Amanda Dyer
Plans for Canada Day are well underway and this year, the City of Timmins has teamed up with Timmins Community Park Association to bring fun for the whole family.
First up, Hollinger Park will be the site of a Canada Day Family Fun afternoon complete with a DJ and foam party! Splash around in the suds, run the inflatable maze and take a ride in a bumper ball. Midnight Express will keep the music pumping. Enjoy a hotdog BBQ by donation and celebrate Canada in one of Timmins’ great green spaces. Festivities run from noon to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, July 1 from Hollinger Park.
That night, head to the shores of Porcupine Lake for a spectacular firework display from Rampant Fireworks. Where’s the best place to watch? Stare up at the night sky from locations along the shore like the White Waterfront Conservation Area. Fireworks start at 10:00 p.m.
For updates on the Canada Day Fun and Fireworks, follow the City of Timmins, Timmins Tourism and Timmins Community Park Association on Facebook.
Amanda Dyer
A lasting effect of the COVID-19 pandemic has been a driver shortage at Timmins Transit. In an effort to reduce driver fatigue and stress, City Council has approved a temporary frequency reduction effective Monday, June 13.
The revised schedule will be in place over the summer months from June through August and will reduce frequency times of some routes from service every 30 minutes to every forty-five minutes.
“Last summer, Management had to cancel summer vacation requests due to driver shortage,” says Director of Public Works and Environmental Services Ken Krcel. “Our drivers need time to rest and recharge. The immediate benefit is a reduction in lost time and employee turnover. This small change will prevent a greater loss of service that could happen if drivers end up burned out and calling in sick.”
Reducing the frequency of service will reduce the total number of driving hours each day, allowing for time off without having to cancel routes altogether. The timing is also ideal since past data shows a decline in ridership during the summer months.
“We need to give drivers their requested time off as per their collective agreement,” adds Krcel. “We are doing that with as little impact to transit riders as possible while providing adequate public transportation in the summer.”
The revised schedule will be posted online by Thursday morning. For more information on Timmins Transit schedule and updated routes, including those impacted by Connecting Link construction, visit Timmins.ca / Our Services / Timmins Transit.
Amanda Dyer
June is Bike Month and the City of Timmins’ Cycling Committee wants to encourage more residents to get out and explore their neighbourhood by bike. Not only is it a clean mode of transportation, but biking improves physical fitness, creates safer roads, and can boost a city’s economy and talent retention. Cities across Canada are looking to expand their biking infrastructure and the City’s Cycling Committee is making sure Timmins stays on top of the trend.
This summer, two projects undertaken by the Cycling Committee will be completed, both of which help Timmins become more bikeable, or safe and suitable for cyclists of all ages. The multi-use path on Airport Rd. will be paved from Lamminen Ave. to Riverpark Rd., finishing up the extension added last summer. Dedicated bike lanes will also be added to Theriault Blvd. and Jubilee Ave. West. The addition of the bike lanes, approved by council on April 5, will improve visibility of cyclists through a busy school zone, making it safer for kids to bike to school.
One way that residents can celebrate Bike Month is by taking to the trails. The Cycling Committee has provided a list of cycling etiquette for trail use online at Timmins.ca. There are also handy tips for cycling safety and an interactive map that shows bike rack locations around the city. Learn more at: https://www.timmins.ca/find_or_learn_about/community_safety_and_well-_being/cycling_in_timmins.
Amanda Dyer
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