AMO Conference in Ottawa was held last week

Doug Ford spoke for 22 minutes as a keynote address 

Compiled by Mark Schadenberg

AMO is the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and the 400+ communities in the province gathered for their annual convention last week in Ottawa with Premier Doug Ford among the guest speakers.

A link to the full 22-minute speech is below, but I have created a synopsis of sorts.

Mark Critch is among the hosts of the show This Hour Has 22 Minutes, but Ford’s dialogue was timed in at 22:43.  

Doug Ford at AMO on August 17

Ontario’s desire is to raise the strongest economy anywhere in the G7. 

These paragraphs capture his podium time.

There is a million more people working than in recent years, large companies are investing in Ontario and paying taxes, so Ontario has attracted $235 billion in investment since 2018 and good paying jobs in every corner of the province. Ontario had 52,000 new jobs in July.

He did refer to the economy as ‘uncertain times’, but government has created conditions to attract investment.

‘Ring of Fire’ roads are under construction and are ahead of schedule by 5 years. There is $22 billion in economic possibilities in the north.

Priorities also include paved runways to the area -- airports to move people and supplies and mining materials.

Another priority is a pipeline from Alberta to Sarnia for gas production – a pipeline made by Canadian workers with Canadian steel. Northern Shield Energy Corridor is transformational, noted Ford.

The data centre ‘playbook’ was discussed and the importance of keeping Canadian data in Canada. Data sovereignty in our hands, but with our ‘natural competitive advantages’, clean hydro system, world-class workforce, and, but projects must strengthen Ontario and must invest in local infrastructure, strict environment standards including water and noise, cooler climate, available land, and maintain control of our sensitive data.  Safeguarding information, so will rely on cities to help build the future, which will help build municipal facilities and broadband infrastructure, while attracting revenue to the province.

“Ontario will choose only the best projects.” When it comes to data centres.

More hospitals and schools and better transit, and improved roads and bridges– a plan to build with a $236 billion plan. Hospitals’ total is $64 billion for new sites or additions, and $22 billion on larger K-12 schools or new schools, billions on long-term care, and $6.4 billion on colleges and universities. Can’t deliver world-class services without a strong economy.

The $8.8 billion committed to affordable housing is a partnership with the federal government.

Reducing development charges (DCs) up to 50% on the construction of new homes. Woodstock council did this. (Some communities have pledged a number higher than 50%). A detached home under construction in Woodstock previously included a DC of about $25,000 for road expansions, but more importantly recreation and cultural facilities. Townhouses and apartments had a much lower rate.

Buyers of brand new homes could save up to $200,000 along with HST reduction on new homes built, plus reduction in DC charges.

Province is assisting municipalities by building more jail cells, fixing bail system, closing safe injection sites, cleaning up drug quantities available on the street, clearing encampments, cracking down on crime so people are more safe.

Ring Of Fire

Investing in world-class recreation facilities across provinces to build and upgrade arenas, playing fields, and pools as they are community gathering places. It’s the Community Sports and Recreation Fund. Projects are always over applied (over subscribed) so, get your plan into the province now for eligible projects.

Never been more optimistic about this province’s future. He said this despite the on-going tariff issues with the U.S. in various economic sectors. Ford says his talks with U.S. state officials and industry leaders, share his thoughts on worrisome tariff additions due to unstable economic forecasts. ‘Build the most successful economic partnership in the entire world, and create lasting prosperity . . . across North America.”  

Ford mentioned how proud he is of front-line workers battling forest fires and a ‘national fire strategy’ to buy 60 more water bomber planes.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvKHgdlnpG4

My thoughts . . . 

It’s easy to create a capsule of a speech that appears to be all good news, but Ford has had his share of missteps (in my opinion) in recent years, including this list I have compiled. Ford has been the Progressive Conservation - Premier since 2018.

Created a system of ‘Strong Mayor’ powers and the expanded it basically to municipalities with 7 or more elected members on council.

Green belt land swap controversy. 

Paying $28 million for a plane, but then selling it.

Reducing the number of conservation authorities to 9. Less environment accountability.
Changed the locally-based recycling program to a producer-created system

Tunnel under 401 proposed.

Toronto second airport – Billy Bishop to expand or not. Costly consultations and projections before shelved by federal government.

Permitting sale of beer in all variety stores. Cost for the plan was over $1.4 billion

Pouring out Diageo whiskey when Amherstburg bottler was announced to be shuttered. This is on the list as Crown Royal is made in Gimli, Manitoba.

Green belt land swap. (Yes, I'm repeating myself. Precious property (Wetlands and green space) can not be sold to developers or utilized for highway construction.)

Ministerial Zoning Orders to over-step municipal plans for growth and where industry could be built.

Not protecting Indigineous land rights.

Bill 5 passing weakens protections against the environment and wildlife.

Provincial Property Statement on intensification -- building up and not out, but also permitting excessive ARUs in R1 zoned areas.

Woodstock was told that OMAFRA property was deemed surplus and would be sold only for residential only -- not a commercial plaza as an example.

Creating system where Ontario hires managers for regional governments in geography like Waterloo Region and Niagara. Could Oxford be next?

Under funding some services like healthcare (hallway healthcare and not enough front-line health professionals). Doctors, nurses, social workers are all needed.

Is funding for Hart Hubs arriving to each project fast enough during crisis of overdoses?

Province is about 20,000 beds short in its commitment to long-term care facilities.

What changes could occur long-term in school board administration, including elected trustees.

Funding shortfalls to a school system to allow for proper number of educational assistants in the classroom.   Woodstock did receive its highly-anticipated Turtle Island elementary.

Skills Development Fund department money misspent and directed poorly by the cabinet portfolio.

Moving the Ontario Science Centre.

Wellness centre and spa transformation of Ontario Place.

Created camera speed traps and then eliminated program.

Created and encouraged mandatory bike lanes and then eliminated the program.

Reducing the number of weeks that Queen’s Park sits.

Feel free to comment with more to add to the list over the past 8 years

Plus other controversies driven by his cabinet ministers like renting in hotels when they live near Queen’s Park.

Some disputes were in areas I would applaud the provincial legislature including stricter access to ‘freedom of information’, including access to government cell phones. All elected officials, including those on city council, are pressured to often in areas such as transparency by citizens who don't watch council or read the agendas.

Understanding fully the issues at the municipal and county levels

only happens when you follow happenings at Queen's Park

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Legion and Chamber to host a Woodstock municipal election debate

Mayor and Deputy Mayor debate set for Oct. 2

(Edited; Info Added)

A public debate for candidates is a terrific way to determine who you might vote for, especially when there's a great range of issues discussed.

Anyone seating on council MUST make a decision and be prepared to answer about their thoughts on an agenda item, including concise reasoning. It's never easy and it shouldn't be easy as often a lot is at stake, especially during budget season.

The first debate announced for the Oct. 26 election for Woodstock has been announced and it's at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 2 at the Legion Branch 55 building on Dundas Street.

Mayor & Deputy Mayor candidates are invited

I will not be participating, but I'm also not permitted to as the Woodstock District Chamber of Commerce has announced that it will be a forum for candidates for Mayor and Deputy Mayor only. Lots to discuss, therefore, as the questions will surround City happenings and the County's level of government.

On Thursday, Oct. 1, from 4 - 6, there will be an open house meet-and-greet for all candidates running for all 4 levels / positions. A terrific opportunity to chat with me 1-on-1 or others. That Chamber sponsored event will take place at South Gate Centre on Old Wellington Street South.

Mike Crabbe is the General Manager of the Chamber and it's an exceptional association to join for events, mentoring, networking and marketing

Going forward -- As I see information posted anywhere, including social media, I will promote those events / planned debates here. 

I'm looking forward to a great campaign for a City - County Council position.

Also, refer to this site for lots of election details and my resume as many posts on social media I have seen have been slanted or incomplete, and that also refers to other candidates as well.

A Chamber 'Save The Date' Reminder !! 

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On the buses; a mode of transportation

City's transit system could change significantly soon

By Mark Schadenberg

Woodstock Transit is on par with other municipal services as City staff, including drivers, go above-and-beyond to create a mode of transportation that is not perfect but ideal for the times as costs and deficits must be considered along with routes and scheduling times.

In a previous post, I mentioned that I believe buses should start at 5 a.m., so those employed with a start time of 6 can utilize the convenience. Currently, those 6 a.m. workers are unable to use the service as the first bus routes each morning leave the depot at Dundas and York at 6 a.m. A similar conundrum exists for those on a shift ending at midnight as transit ends weekdays at 10 p.m.

Would it cost a lot more to extend hours 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. weekdays? Most certainly. Would there be an increase in ridership for this notion? I’m confident to indicate -- most certainly. Would the amount the City subsidizes each fare change? Likely no, but the overall annual deficit of the program would increase due to wages and benefits, depreciation and maintenance on the vehicles, signage and bus stops, fuel, and insurance.

The City transit department, which has its office at 944 James with engineering, building inspectors, works, water, and others – is currently revamping the bus system and it’s a task analyzed approximately every 4 years. Should there be more bus routes? Should the buses have more cross-over maps so you transfer at Dundas and York for sure, but also at various other locations scattered around the Friendly City for your convenience and timing? Should the buses go farther east than Queenston and Upper Thames on the north side of Pittock. Has the time arrived that buses should complete a circle route. around Pittock featuring perhaps Devonshire to County Rd 4 and then the 17^th back to Vansittart? (The trek could go both ways on its route.) South of the 401, has the time arrived for transit to move eastward to Alyea instead of turning at Jack Ross on Pattullo? Eastwood is now part of Woodstock, so should buses visit the Oxford Grill on Highway 2?   

As a part-time taxi driver, I wouldn’t declare a conflict if hours were extended to 5 a.m. – 1 a.m. each weekday as it’s an improvement or enhancement of an existing amenity.

The 2026 City budget indicates wages for the calendar to be projected at $886,000 for full-time staff and $565,000 for part-time drivers, while transit fares to be guesstimated at $800,000. The City additionally receives money from ‘dedicated gas tax’ at around $600,000, advertising quota at about $85,000 revenue, and an annual transfer of funds from a portion of monies Woodstock receives from Gateway Casino.

As for expenses on the operating / revenue ledger total expenses are just over $4 million, including wages.

Let’s understand that all municipal services are subsidized – the library with no late fees, swimming lessons, free admission to museum and art gallery, police and fire departments, ice-time and ball diamond rentals, free tennis and pickleball hours, city events like Cowapolooza and Fall Fest, and several more.

The Bus Transit Study began late last year and included online participation and an in-person public meeting. City Council will have to approve all changes, so the final report could include options and many possibilities or simply indicate that the full report is recommended to be passed. 

Citizens must realize that senior staff always include a recommendation with their report and in the case of transit it would likely be stipulated that any-and-all changes would take effect on Jan. 1, 2027 or another date depending on a timetable to print maps or whether it’s an early decision to be determined by the next council.

The Paratransit program could also see significant alterations. 

See the transit pages on the city website for more details and updates as they are revealed and made public after council’s approval.

I will publish a link to the full report when it’s issued by transit.

https://www.cityofwoodstock.ca/parking-roads-transit/woodstock-transit/  

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Working part-time for Kendall Cab reveals . . .

So many stories in the City of Woodstock

By Mark Schadenberg

Story time.

I’m extremely proud of my 8 years (2 terms) now on Woodstock City Council and that tenure can certainly not be wrapped up in one word: Experience. I would suggest I earned the resume to be a city council member well before 2018 as can be observed quickly in my background / list of accomplishments.

I think it’s a safe guess for anyone reading this that even though Woodstock’s population has eclipsed 50,000 in the past 4 years – the role of being on city council is first and foremost about community service, and lending your local knowledge, concise understanding and skills in countless areas to make this city a great place, but with strong guard rails on spending. I can let you know, each-and-every topic of debate is multi-pronged and overlaps many other concerns and priorities. It truly is a tangled web that must be fully comprehended in its complexity.

The elected city council-only position has a remuneration of less than $40,000 per year with very little in the way of benefits (dental, eye appointments, etc). In actuality, the only true additional compensation I receive is for monthly mileage to attend UTRCA board meetings in London as true participation requires face-to-face board room discussion as opposed to a Zoom connection.

My Other Hat

This submission today, therefore, is actually more about my part-time work as a cab driver for Kendall. Meeting the citizens of Woodstock in all walks of life has contributed greatly to my empathy and connections to all residing in The Friendly City at this time. Cab-time conversations range from the transit system to parks, the Downtown streetscape project to homelessness (unhoused), population growth and taxation to rinks and pools, and everything else under the sun.

Customers range from an 8-year-old needing to arrive at school or providing transportation for the elderly on their way to shopping, medical appointments or church. Lots of families have 1 car, so they rely on Kendall to get a spouse to work. Many teenagers have jobs in retail or fast food and need a ride. Each person – the ones who are regulars who like to chat – each have a different and unique story.

The fares also include patients / clients of the 461 Dundas methadone clinic, or the Oxford County Community Health Centre (OCCHC) on Metcalf, CMHA, Wellkin, Indwell, Ingamo and DASO, Operation Sharing / The Inn, the hospital, and doctors’ offices. Each and everyone has a different story – life experiences, and usually wit and humour also, and sometimes chatter about the Blue Jays or Leafs.

Also, a few taxi riders have their fares covered by Ontario Works or perhaps ODSP (Ontario Disability Support Program) or WDDS.

Three quick tales. About three months ago, I brought a woman in her 80s to Walmart. She utilizes a walker for mobility, so upon arrival I exited the car to retrieve her walker from the back hatch. While I was doing this, the customer stole my money pouch which resembles a pencil case. At this point, I had about $120 collected. (More than 50% of payments are either debit or credit card nowadays, plus charges also include no actual cash) When she entered the store, I switched my tablet to ‘available’ but quickly noticed my money had vanished. I entered the store, found her, and she said that she thought my money holder was hers, but she did give it back. It’s sad to see that a senior feels it necessary to resort to stealing to buy daily needs, but today’s cost of living is certainly difficult even though she resides in a geared-to-income building.

As a member of the Woodstock Environment Advisory Committee (WEAC) and the UTRCA board, I have coordinated 1 area along the Pittock Lake trails for the springtime Thames River Cleanup program. This past April, my crew included an Indwell resident who has an almost-daily personal dedication to pick up garbage along Devonshire and elsewhere in that neighbourhood. Someone giving back to their community as best they can. (Note: Read previous post about garbage and landfill.)

I would add that driving a cab is certainly in-part community service (and it is), but that I wouldn’t be employed in this role if I did not require the dollars / salary, and didn’t enjoy people. Many of the Kendall crew of drivers are very courteous and kind to the clientele.

As a taxi driver, the long days, which sometimes can be more than 10 hours, do include moments of quiet down time between calls, so those opportunities are ideal for phone calls, reading agendas, texting or emailing, or simply standing on a curb and enjoying fresh air.

Recently, I’ve had the almost-sad task of delivering 2 older women to The Inn who are unhoused. I would be extremely surprised if either has an addiction, but life circumstances have led these friends to not have accommodations. They’re on a waiting list, but physical limitations translates into only being able to consider main-floor apartments. As said, everyone at The Inn has different backgrounds.

As a city council member, and with concern for the future plans of the former YMCA and its renovations over the next 16+ months, I chatted with Operation Sharing executive director Tim Dukes about these 2 particular residents of The Inn. Again, every story is different. The Inn is for the unhoused and there are many reasons why these 2 in particular (or dozens of others) are utilizing their services. I truly hope the caring employees of The Inn will have a place to work when the Y opens as a 24/7 shelter. (I have previously posted that the county paid too much for the Y, should not have sole-source the architect, should have consulted neighbours before closing the deal, should be more prepared on the topic of security and services to be offered to residents such as storage of belongings, and the county also did not consult sufficiently with local first responders and Woodstock council).

Among the many stories are why encampments have become the destination for many as there are empty beds every night at The Inn. 

At the same time, many people with drug addictions continue to be fully employed with a home, and can still take advantage of the Oxford County Hart Hub (Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment) – a service calling 369 Huron home until 16 Graham is ready with its approximate 50 hospital / care beds. Everyone does own a unique story.

The connections between employment with Kendall and fully understanding the community with all its facets, is a link in the overall chain of my hands-on knowledge about Woodstock and Oxford. On Oct. 26, Vote Mark Schadenberg for City & County Council.

 

https://www.woodstockhospital.ca/oxford-hart-hub-initiative/

https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-disability-support-program

www.operationsharing./ca

www.cmha.ca

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Rotary Dragon Boat races took place Aug. 8

Teamwork in the boats, teamwork by volunteer organizers

By Mark Schadenberg

There were 33 teams competing with paddles and synchronicity at the 25th Woodstock Dragon Boat Festival on Aug. 8, but many observers would quickly agree that the top team was the 34th team -- the organizers from the Rotary Club of Woodstock.

Pittock Conservation Area day-use park was also a winner.

Whether it be new club president Brenda Vokey-Tait to many other Rotarians I know like festival convener Dave Harris, plus Lisa Wells, Cliff Zaluski, Robin Ferro, Don Fulkerson, James Stewart and a cast of dozens -- the dragon boat races were again a huge success. 

With a field of 33 teams -- all with 20 or more paddlers in a 40-foot boat -- each squad received a number of races as the day began with preliminary heats every 10 minutes to determine qualification times for future races and classifications throughout the day. Clockwork for assigning teams to the starting line was just a small part of the logistics as three boats would have to disembark for the next 3 crews to propel themselves to the start line near the dam, while a race was simultaneously happening between the lanes of buoys on the Pittock Reservoir.

The timed sprints were 500 metres. At the end of the day, the 8 fastest boats would be tested in a 2-km distance, said Harris.

'Community volunteerism' is a term I use at every public speaking appearance as I represented Woodstock's city council and mayor Jerry Acchione on this day. I also wore my Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) hat as an 8-year board member. A politician can't miss the opportunity to throw in an issue as I mentioned that this would be the last time -- technically -- that the UTRCA would be among the formal event hosts as next February the UTRCA plus 3 conservation authorities will be amalgamated into the Western Lake Erie as a region.

Among the Saturday boat entries were Woodstock Wave and Woodstock Fun League teams, but I could easily notice the number of jerseys with the name Water Vipers. The Toronto-based team, according to a coach I chatted with, called the Humber River home and train 12 months of the year. Last year, members competed in Hong Kong and Montreal plus a few race dates around the province.

The tradition of dragon boat camaraderie seems to be connected long term with women teams as breast cancer survivors. The Woodstock opening ceremony included recognition of this with a speech by a member of a London-based squad. 

Many unique names and pun monikers could be witnessed on the event schedule and team tents crowding the shoreline -- Seas The Day, Blazing Paddles, Shag'N Dragons, Rowbust, Water Vipers, Dragon Flies, Warlocks and Ship Dragons.

Not so many years ago, I had a connection to the festival -- not as a competitor but as a parent when my daughter competed.

The Rotary event was billed as a sponsorship of Pharmasave with additional Gold sponsors Canadian Tire, Sierra Construction, Leon's Furniture, Green Private Wealth, Scotiabank, and of course media sponsor 104.7 Heart FM.

The annual dragon boat meet is a wonderful time to put the Pittock Lake free day-use park into full use. It's been about 5 years since the day-use section of the Pittock Conservation Area became free for everyone to use and improvements by the City of Woodstock include a new pavilion on the north shore, a re-built disc golf course and the warm months opening of the dam walkover to connect both sides of Pittock to enjoy recreation in the 2,000 acres of green space. The actual Pittock camp is part of that acreage and you must pay to camp or keep a summertime site at the conservation area, which has about 250 sites. The full-time camping access season continues until Oct. 18.

As for the Rotary Club and its additional events, check out its link below for more information. Service clubs are terrific for community volunteerism and teamwork. I'm a member of the Lions Club of Woodstock but certainly have great admiration for Rotarians. 

Tent on right was for announcer; tent on left was for timekeepers.

The Rotary website for the dragon boat races notes a long list of charities and other local associations who are supported by this sweat-equity endeavour, including a significant pledge to donate to the building of the commercial kitchen at the expanded South Gate Centre. The internet site also includes archived race results back to 2014.

Rotary slogan: Service Above Self.

Pittock Reservoir opened up and was created in the late 1960s when a dam was built to prevent flooding in Woodstock. Gordon Pittock was a Progressive Conservative MPP for Oxford in the late 1960s. A former UTRCA chair, Ingersoll resident Pittock was named a UTRCA member in 1947 when the conservation authority was created.

www.rotarywoodstock.ca

www.woodstockdragonboat.ca

Teams with tents watch from shore when waiting for their next scheduled race.

You must stretch before paddle of 500 metres

 

Toronto team Water Vipers had more than 60 competitors and 3 teams.

Heart FM posts its supplied profile about me

Radio story is just one message in the publicity train

Last week, I met with Marcie Culbert at the 104.7 Heart FM studio on Norwich Avenue. Our interview was in the boardroom and I arrived with a few notes that will be included here.

A top-of-the-hour news update on a local radio station is never a full analysis of any newsworthy story. Heart FM has been doing a great job of contacting candidates in all 8 municipalities for the Oct. 26 elections -- Woodstock, Ingersoll, Tillsonburg and the 5 townships. 

Marcie Culbert did a good job asking me 4 questions and then adding if I had anything to add. 

As I have noted in my other avenues of information, I hope the Heart FM story directs you to reading more about me at this blog site and on Facebook page dedicated to the Woodstock elections. You may also call or email me at anytime. One more promotional item that I will be introducing soon is short concise video blogs with a consistent message.

I look forward to educating voters on topics and issues, council agenda procedures, the city versus county umbrella contents, the voting process, and my resume. As for the voting process, such as the 4 polling stations or how the electronic voting will take place, I stress that the City's website is your best destination:   https://www.cityofwoodstock.ca/your-government/elections/   

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What's On Woodstock in July & August

City magazine is distributed to 24,000 (8 issues per year) local households

Compiled by: Mark Schadenberg

What's On Woodstock (WOW) magazine is like receiving 8 presents every year to tell you all about the present and future in Woodstock, and with WOW Tales and details on the museum, also about the past of the Friendly City.

What a great resource  as published by the City of Woodstock communications department, led by Tatjana Milne. The roster includes Spencer Holman and Robin DeAngelis, and with contributions by a large cast from departments -- parks and recreation, engineering and works, arts and culture, naturally special events, and advisory committees, and of course the Flying Squirrel.

Some happenings promoted in the current July / August issue have already happened -- a few summer camps, opening of the Cowan Fields pickle ball courts, Summer Streetfest, and of course Canada Day.

If your current edition of WOW is still sitting in your super mailbox or the foyer of your apartment complex, be sure to grab it as it includes:

Promotional info on Cowapolooza set for Aug. 14 - 15 in Southside Park with Finger Eleven as the headliners on Saturday the 15th on the toboggan hill stage. Finger Eleven has accumulated an impressive catalogue of 7 albums over the years, and the Canadian band is best known for releases Paralyzer, Living In A Dream, I'll Keep Your Memory Vague and the power ballad One Thing. Paralyzer was a Top 10 rock song in every corner of North America and beyond. In my opinion, the track Slow Chemical defines their overall sound and is quickly recognizably known as the theme walk-up music for WWE star Kane. Interesting about Finger Eleven is that they're my second favourite band from Burlington . . . after the Spoons.

The July / August WOW also features:

An insert labelled as Woodstock125 with details on the City's birthday as 1901 a town became a city. Among the tie-in events is a family activity called Movies In the Park featuring Zootopia 2, plus a Woodstock Museum exhibit which continues into early January. In his original survey of southern Ontario (Upper Canada) potential, then Governor-General John Graves Simcoe in pre-1800s referred to Woodstock simply as Town Plot.

The Woodstock125 swag ad shows the many items available for sale for this year like hoodies, caps, cups and tees. www.woodstock125.ca

There is a look at heritage walking tours available locally featuring streets like Light and Vansittart.

The museum at 466 Dundas will host Fall Fest on Oct. 3 in the Square, and many other attractions like Lunch & Learn re-starting on Sept. 22

WOW plugs the on-going juried exhibition at the art gallery, which is displayed until Sept. 19. The competition winners were already announced at an open house on July 18.    The prizes were earned by Gwenda Dieleman, Soroush Dabiri, and Meredyth Kutt. This year's recipient of the Friends of the Woodstock Art Gallery Legacy Scholarship is Monica Payne.

Aquatics scheduling at Southside Pool, including aquafit and lane swimming.

Tourism Oxford posted a feature on day trips around the county such as a 'Woodstock Retro Rewind'.

The Woodstock Public Library is busy all 12 months, and in the summer is highlighted with a book club featuring published author Charlie Mackesy, and a do-it-yourself coffee mug design events on Aug. 11 and 18.

Info on associations applying for the fall in-take for Community Grants -- dollars supplied by Gateway Casino and the AGCO revenue.

Municipal elections overview, including how you can make sure you name is on the voters' list for Oct. 26.

The Woodstock Environment Advisory Committee column pertains to native plants and how they support biodiversity.  

The City Hall segment includes an ad for 'Virtual City Hall' as the city's new website along with updated technology permits more interactive connections with 500 Dundas like paying property taxes online. The secure online system also is attached to all city accounts and has an option to receive newsletters. You can ask questions at 519 539-2382 or email vch@cityofwoodstock.ca or visit: https://www.cityofwoodstock.ca/news/posts/city-services-at-your-fingertips/     

and . . . A promo for Theatre Woodstock's 80th anniversary in September.

By the way, I referred earlier to the Flying Squirrel and this third party graphic design company in Woodstock is the one-and-only Andrew Norris (Pictured) and his services can be reached at: www.flyingsquirreldesign.com

Agendas and minutes to meetings, department links and phone numbers, information on parks and their locations, instructions on building permits, and the 2026 approved budget and . . . can all be discovered online.

www.cityofwoodstock.ca

www.cityofwoodstock.ca/specialevents

www.cityofwoodstock.ca/news/posts/city-services-at-your-fingertips

www.woodstockartgallery.ca

www.woodstockmuseum.ca

www.mywpl.ca

https://www.cityofwoodstock.ca/recreation-culture

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