Dear Friends of Kingston Inner Harbour,
Thanks so much AeroSnapper for the photo of beaver workings in the Inner Harbour. Luckily the boats weren’t damaged. If you aren’t following them already, they have lots of good pictures of all sorts of Kingston stuff on Facebook. Have a look.
LOCAL NEWS, ANNOUNCEMENTS, ISSUES AND EVENTS
1. Update from Golder Consultants (WSP) on 70 Million Dollar Inner Harbour Clean-up Project
2. Randy Cadue Chosen as Neighbourhood Climate Action Champion
3. Kingston Climate Change Symposium, Jan 20, 2025
4. “One Earth: Green Burials” Info Meeting at Library, Feb 11
5. Great News from Limestone City Co-Operative Housing!
6. Live-Streaming of City Council Meeting.
7. Kingston Field Naturalist Update: Hundreds of Dead Fish in Cat River, Bird Friendly City, Invasive Sea Lamprey
8. New Sports Facility Proposed for Memorial Centre supported by Tourism Kingston
9. City Budget Presentations Jan 20, 21, and 22 if required
10. New 2025 Municipal Fees and Charges Now in Effect
11. Let’s Talk about the True Cost of Garbage
12. Development Charges Review: Online Meeting Jan 15, 2025
13. Get Funding to Bring Your Community Together
14. 2025 Dates for LaSalle Causeway Bridge to be Open
15. Queen’s Family Health Team Awarded City Grant to Connect 1,200 Patients to Primary Care.
16. New City Housing Stabilization Program
FROM FARTHER AFIELD
17. Ontario Government Announces Energy Initiative for Home and Business Retrofits
18. Pesticide use in Canada has skyrocketed over the past two decades.
19. Winters in Great Lakes Region Have Been Shrinking by Two or More Weeks Since 1995
OF GENERAL INTEREST
20: How Winter Can Cause Erectile Dysfunction or Make it Worse
21. Homemade Method for Rough Heels
22. Co-operate for Canada (C4C) Calls for Co-operation between Left-leaning Parties
23. Small Modular Reactors Zoom Meeting, Jan 10, 2025
24. New York Has Just implemented Congestion Pricing for Cars.
Canada Next?
25. New Research: Nearly 1/3 of ON Fatal Overdose Victims Had Recently Visited a Hospital
LOCAL NEWS, ISSUES, ANNOUNCEMENTS, AND EVENTS
1. Update from Golder Consultants on 70 Million Dollar Project
Response from Golder Consultants (WSP) Jan 8, 2025 to Dec 11 request for information.
Mary,
Thanks for your email, sharing your concerns and the article you provided.
There have been several contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) identified over the past decade in urban environments that are increasingly being detected in water bodies, many of which are not routinely monitored or regulated. Accordingly, the project team initiated sampling from storm sewer outflows and within KIH to confirm the presence and magnitude of select CECs (including PFAS) that would be representative of substances detected in urban water bodies.
Concentrations of PFAS were measured below method detection limits in all KIH surface water samples (including fall, spring, and summer sampling events). PFAS were also analyzed in storm water outflows (during dry and wet conditions) and concentrations were also measured below laboratory method detection limits. We are preparing a summary of these results which will be posted on the project website in winter/spring 2025.
We also looked at PFAS in sediment samples in the harbour. Results of this sampling are summarized in the Sediment Sampling Program 2021-2024 Summary Report, which will be posted on the project website in the next month.
Overall, concentrations of PFAS did not indicate unacceptable levels in surface water (where they were below laboratory detection limits and applicable guidelines) or unacceptable sediment quality for a working harbour. Work is currently being conducted to understand the relative contribution that storm water outflows have on long-term CEC loadings into KIH. This would help to determine the extent of source control measures (if any) that would be required related to the CEC inputs into the harbour. We think there is adequate information to support implementation of the Project to manage the primary contaminants of concern, but ongoing investigations of CECs can still continue in parallel.
The draft Detailed Impact Assessment is scheduled to be released in the winter of 2025. We will make sure to let you know when it is released and available on the project website so you can include it in your newsletter.
Kind Regards,
Jennifer
2. Randy Cadue Chosen as Neighbourhood Climate Action Champion
Received from Randy Cadue, Jan 9, 2025 via Giorgia Morris-Cefis, Program Coordinator, Neighbourhood Climate Action Champions Program, Growth and Development Services
“Congratulations on being selected as a Neighbourhood Climate Action Champion!
We look forward working with you and your community. To launch the Neighbourhood Climate Action Champions program, we would like to invite you to an initial program gathering at the Kingston Frontenac Public Library – Calvin Park Branch, 88 Wright Crescent, Friends of the Library Community Room, on February 12th from 5:00pm to 6:30pm. The gathering will provide an opportunity for the Neighbourhood Climate Action Champions to meet.”
CONGRATULATIONS RANDY!
3. Kingston Climate Change Symposium, Jan 20, 2025
What: “Rooted in Action: Empowering Youth to Grow a Sustainable Future”
Who: Autumn Peltier, Indigenous Rights & Water Activist whose journey for justice has made waves around the globe, and Lila Williamson, Activist, Organizer and Founder of Climate Strike Canada.
Host: Ali Hassan, Host of CBC’s Laugh Out Loud and moderator of Canada Reads.
Organized and sponsored by Sustainable Kingston
Where: Grand Theatre, 218 Princess St.
When: Jan 20, 1-5 pm
Tickets: $10. Buy Tickets for 2025 Kingston Climate Change Symposium | Kingston Grand Theatre
Notes: During breaks and after the symposium, you’ll also have the chance to connect with local environmental groups and city leaders at a small exhibit located at Kingston Grand Theatre.
4. “One Earth: Green Burials” Info Meeting at Downtown Library, Feb 11.
| This drop-in event at the Kingston Public Library, Central Branch (Johnson St), is part of a series exploring topics related to climate, sustainability, and energy efficiency. Registration: https://calendar.kfpl.ca/event/12682351 |
| Green Burial Kingston is pleased to be affiliated with Green Burial Society of Canada, founded in 2013 to make environmentally responsible, culturally meaningful death care options available to all Canadians. Learn more from greenburialcanada.ca. Consider signing up for their newsletter. 5. Great News from Limestone City Co-Operative Housing Received from Councillor Jeff McLaren, December 19,, 2024 $100 Million to Bring Innovative First of its Kind Co-op Housing and Vertical Farm project to Kingston. Limestone City Co-operative Housing Inc. (LCCH) is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking milestone with the signing of a letter of engagement to secure private funding to cover up to 95% of the residential development costs for its transformative housing project. With estimates placing the financing at about $100 million, this visionary project sets a new national benchmark for sustainable, attainable housing. This project will be built at the intersection of Division and Elliott. More Info: |
$100 Million to Bring Innovative First of its Kind Co-op Housing and Vertical Farm project to Kingston.pdf
6. Live-Streaming City Council Meetings
Received from Councillor Paul Chaves’ Community Newsletter, Jan 5, 2025
Beginning with the Council meeting of November 5th, the live stream will be available directly on the City website and no longer available through the Kingston City Council YouTube Channel. The stream will also be accessible via a ‘Watch Now’ button that will be placed on both the Council and Committees and Boards webpages on the City website.
In addition to Council meetings, the following committees will have their live stream moved to the City website:
- Administrative Policies Committee
- Arts, Recreation & Community Policies Committee;
- Committee of Adjustment;
- Environment, Infrastructure & Transportation Policies Committee;
- Kingston Heritage Advisory Committees,
As well as an archive of past Council and all Committee meetings, will remain on the Kingston City Council YouTube channel.
Recordings will be saved in the agenda, making it easy to find what’s important to you.
CityofKingston.ca/Council-Meetings
CityofKingston.ca/Committee-Meetings
7. Kingston Fleld Naturalist Update: Dead Fish in Cat River, Bird Friendly City & Invasive Sea Lamprey
Received from Chris Hargreaves of Kingston Field Naturalists, Jan 5, 2025
Bird Friendly City Certification
On December 10th the City’s Environment, Infrastructure & Transportation Policies Committee directed staff to submit a Bird Friendly City application to Nature Canada in the next application round – Q2 2025 – with the goal of obtaining entry-level certification.
Nature Canada’s Bird Friendly City certification program has been around for a while, but the scoring rubric is complicated. In recent years when people suggested to me that the Kingston Field Naturalists try and get Kingston certified as a Bird Friendly City, I have invited them to complete the rubric and then discuss with me how Kingston might achieve the entry-level qualification. Nobody got back to me!
Congratulations to Karen Santucci, the City’s Director of Public Works and Solid Waste, for completing the rubric, and proposing a route to entry-level certification which the EITP unanimously accepted.
Fish Die Off at Kingston Mills
I have received the following information from Dragic Vukomanovic, together with the photos attached to this report:
On Friday, December 13th, I witnessed a massive fish kill of in the Cataraqui River at Kingston Mills, next to the hydroelectric power station. It was very disturbing to watch a steady stream of floating dead gizzard shad fish, especially those who were still alive, keep trying desperately and unsuccessfully to swim upstream.
I came back to the same spot on Sunday December 15th, and found the same distressing scene of hundreds and hundreds dead gizzard shad fishfloating down the stream of Cataraqui River. I tried to investigate more and found a lot of pilled up dead shads on the river bank, among stones, shallow bays and dead plants. Many of the dead fish were bruised and decapitated which made me think that maybe the turbines from the hydroelectric power station injured and killed them.
I also noticed that restoration of all locks at Kingston Mills were carried out by Tomlinson company, and all of their heavy machinery are next to the river. It crossed my mind that chemical spills from them might be a cause of fish death.
Next morning, Monday December 16th, I called the Ontario Ministry of Environment Conservation and Parks (MECP) – Spills Action Centre and reported the incident. The duty officer was very receptive. She got all of my information about fish die off, and many of my photos of dead fish, and she promised an immediate response. I was also advised that “for further follow-up please reach out to your local MECP Kingston District Office at (613) 549- 4000”.
In the afternoon I called the Regional (Eastern Ontario) MECP Kingston District Office and talked with an officer who informed me that they had acted upon my report and investigated the incident, i.e. they went to the Cataraqui River, found hundreds of dead fish and talked with people from the construction company (Tomlinson).
Since the construction people denied playing any role in fish die off, the officer concluded that the fish, American gizzard shads, died likely from natural causes i.e. cold water. He didn’t know if gizzard shads came from Lake Ontario or from the lakes of Rideau Canal, why many of fish were bruised and decapitated etc.
However, I have never observed any fish dying in Cataraqui River in the last almost 40 years, when water was even colder than now, and none of my friends have observed it either.
I have not come across references to such a cold water die off either. – If anybody can provide information about such a phenomenon, please contact me.
Resurgence of Sea Lamprey
A Parasitic Invasive Species Threatens Great Lakes Fish Populations, $7B Industry. Story by Prisha Dev, Global News, December 23rd 2024
The Great Lakes Fishery Commission reports a significant rise in sea lamprey populations across all five Great Lakes, following relaxed efforts since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The invasive species, which feeds parasitically on fish, poses a threat to the regions $7-billion fishery.
“The increased abundance in all lakes is not unexpected given significantly reduced control effort during 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic,” said Ethan Baker, commission chair and mayor of Troy, Michigan.
“Elevated and variable adult sea lamprey abundances should be expected over the next year or two before turning back downward.”
The mouth of a Sea Lamprey features 150 teeth and a tongue that is serrated. Sea lamprey control remains a joint effort by Canada and the U.S., involving treatments, barrier maintenance and research.
“The sustained increase in sea lamprey abundances highlights the continued need for ongoing sea lamprey control and research into new and innovative control methods in the Great Lakes,” said Jim McKane, the commission’s vice-chair.
While current populations remain above targets, renewed control efforts need to be maintained to safeguard one of the world’s most important freshwater ecosystems.
For more information and videos of Sea lampreys see
Invasive ‘vampire fish’ on killing spree in Great Lakes
8. New Sports Facility Proposed for Memorial Centre supported by Tourism Kingston
Received from Vicki Schmolka on Substack, Jan 5, 2025
A proposal to sell (or lease?) city-owned land at the Memorial Centre for a privately-owned sports facility is now posted on the Tourism Kingston website.
The proponent, Victory Grounds Ventures, will tell people more about this idea at the two meetings:
January 9, 5 to 6:30 pm at Daft Brewing, 768 Princess Street
January 10, 8 to 9:30 am at Strata Hotel, 1187 Princess Street.
Registration: https://mailchi.mp/visitkingston/ofsaa-6741214?e=1dc98cc0c1&utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
Here is the text:
Kingston could soon be home to a brand-new professional soccer team and stadium and you’re invited to learn more!
This transformational investment in our community has the potential to drive significant economic benefits for local businesses, bolster our sport tourism industry, and address the dire need for additional year-round open-air and covered turf space for our local sport programs. The proposed stadium would be bookable by a variety of sport organizations for training and competition including rugby, ultimate, baseball, football, and more.
Whether you’re involved with a local business, the sport community, or just interested in learning more – sign up to attend one of our two information sessions. The Victory Grounds Ventures team will be sharing information about their significant proposal to bring a professional soccer team and stadium here in Kingston.
Contacts: Emma Lambert, Manager, Sport Partnerships, Wellness, & Culture
Tourism Kingston – emma@tourismkingston.com
Paul Barbeau, Managing Partner, Victory Grounds Ventures – paul@victorygr.ca
Further Correspondence:
Kingston is not mentioned in this CBC piece (November 8, 2024)
https://www.cbc.ca/sports/soccer/cpl/cpl-seeking-expansion-2026-1.7379029?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email#:~:text=The%20Canadian%20Premier%20League%20intends%20to%20expand%20by%20two%20teams%20in%202026 as a possible site for a Canadian Premier Soccer League team. The listed cities are: Edmonton, AB, Laval, QC, Kelowna, BC, Kitchener, ON, Waterloo, ON, Windsor, ON, Quebec City, QC, Saskatoon, SK, and the Toronto area.
In the CBC piece, Mark Noonan, the Canadian Premier League commissioner, identified these criteria for the cities that will be chosen for two new teams to begin play in 2026: “An appropriate playing facility, a strong ownership group, a supportive municipality, corporate sponsorship and youth soccer and fan engagement are among the criteria for an expansion team.”
Mayor Paterson invited comments from the public in a video on Instagram.
The text of the Mayor’s script accompanying the video reads:
“As we kick off the new year, there’s a BIG proposal on the table for the Memorial Centre. ⚽🏟️
The City has been approached with an idea for a new soccer stadium on the northeast corner of the Memorial Centre property. It would house a Canadian Premier League team, host semi-professional games, and serve local sports groups. City Council is set to discuss this proposal at our Jan. 14 meeting, and I’d love to hear your thoughts in advance. Do you support a new soccer stadium at the Memorial Centre? If so, under what conditions? Let’s talk about it!
Please vote in the poll (on Instagram) and provide your thoughts in the comments (on Instagram and Facebook)- what would make this project work/not work for you and Kingston?”
As not everyone is on Instagram or Facebook, the Mayor can be reached at bpaterson@cityofkingston.ca
9. City Budget Presentations Jan 20, 21, and 22 if required
Received from the City of Kingston, Jan 7, 2025
Public Notice of the City of Kingston’s Council Meeting Schedule for the 2025 Operating and Capital Budget presentations for The Corporation of the City of Kingston including the 2025 and 2026 operating and capital budgets for the municipally owned utilities.
Notice is hereby given that the Mayor of The Corporation of the City of Kingston will be presenting his proposed operating and capital budgets on Monday, January 20, 2025.
The 2025 Budget meeting schedule is listed below. Meetings will begin at 6:00 pm and will be held in the Council Chamber, City Hall, 216 Ontario Street:
- Monday, January 20, 2025
- Tuesday, January 21, 2025
- Wednesday, January 22, 2025 (if required)
Written submissions will be accepted at the following address: Office of the City Clerk, Janet Jaynes, City Clerk, 216 Ontario Street., Kingston, ON K7L 2Z3, or by email at cityclerk@cityofkingston.ca.
Individuals wishing to address Council regarding the above matters, must request delegation status, by completing the delegation request form on the City of Kingston website:https://www.cityofkingston.ca/council-and-city-administration/council/speaking-to-council/
Note: Personal information, as defined in the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA), is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act, 2001, and in accordance with MFIPPA. Personal information collected may be used to decide on this matter and may form part of meeting agendas and minutes, and therefore may be made available to members of the public at meetings, through requests, and through the website of The Corporation of the City of Kingston. Questions regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of this personal information may be directed to Blair Johnson, Corporate Records and Information Officer, at 613-546-4291, extension 1316 or e-mail bjohnson@cityofkingston.ca.
Dated the 6 day of January, 2025
Janet Jaynes
City Clerk
10. New 2025 Municipal Fees and Charges Now in Effect
Received from the City of Kingston, Jan 2, 2025
Every year, as part of the budget process, Financial Services works with all City departments to review fees and charges, ensuring they align with our policies and strategic goals. In December, Council passed a new by-law to set the fees for 2025, and revenues from these fees will be included in the Mayor’s 2025 Operating Budget.
Most services with fees are also partly paid for by taxes. The Municipal Act, 2001, allows us to charge fees for services, which are a big part of our city’s revenue—about 15% of the total budget. It’s important to review and adjust these fees every year to keep a fair balance between what users pay and what taxes cover. If we don’t adjust the fees, property taxes would have to be raised to cover the costs of these services.
While some fees stayed the same or were adjusted for inflation, such as Parent & Tot swimming lessons, pet licences and on-street parking fees, others like monthly Fit Pass memberships, marriage solemnization and garbage bag tags, are increasing. These increases help maintain service levels, reflect what the market rate for a service is, and are set in accordance with Council-approved strategies.
We know that any increase to fees can add pressure to your household budget and we apologize for not sharing this information sooner. All fees and charges are now updated on our website (search for the service you access to see the current pricing).
To see all 2025 fees and charges as approved by Council on Dec. 17, visithttps://pub-cityofkingston.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=6176
11. Let’s Talk about the True Cost of Garbage
Received from the City of Kingston, Jan 2, 2024
Solid waste. Trash. Junk. Rubbish. Waste. No matter what you call, it, household garbage is expensive. In addition to the environmental costs of producing waste, there are financial costs, too.
When you throw out that bag of garbage, a combination of tax dollars and bag tag fees pay for labour, fuel costs, equipment maintenance, disposal fees and more. Households all have one free bag every week with a fee applicable (the bag tag program) to any additional garbage bags. In the case of garbage bag tags, this year’s $2 per bag tag increase reflects the rising costs the City faces in its Solid Waste division – the first time this fee has changed in more than 20 years.
The cost to deliver garbage collection service has increased by $700,000 from 2021 (when it cost $4.8 million) to the budgeted amount for 2025 ($5.5 million). The actual landfill costs and fuel surcharges have also increased from $93 per metric tonne in 2021 to $104 in 2024 per metric tonne. The fee increase of the additional garbage bag tags to $4 will help to cover some of the costs, but still leaving a property tax subsidy of $4.4M to support your first free garbage bag.
We know the increase surprised many people, and we apologize for not sharing this information sooner. If you have bag tags you bought before 2025, you can continue to use a single tag on additional bags.
Remember, all households can still put out one bag for free, plus your compost bin and unlimited residential recycling .
Find ways to reduce your waste (and positively affect climate change) at
https://www.cityofkingston.ca/garbage-and-recycling/
12. Development Charges Review re Frontenac St. Parkette and Purdy’s Mill – Zoom Meeting Jan 15
Received from Get Involved, City of Kingston, Jan 2, 2024
The City of Kingston has initiated a background study to inform possible changes to its Development Charge and Impost Fee bylaws. The draft background study and bylaw is available for you to review.
https://www.mfoa.on.ca/mfoa/Main/MFOA_News/MFOA_Video_Dev_Charges.aspx?utm_source=ehq_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=ehq-Get-Involved-Kingston-Development-Charges-Frontenac-Street-Parkette-and-Purdys-Mill-Park&utm_campaign=website&utm_medium=email&utm_source=ehq
What are Development charges?
Development charges are fees charged to developers by the City for the recovery of growth costs when they develop a property. The charges are intended to pay for or offset additional costs to the municipality in terms of infrastructure.Join us on Jan. 15 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. for an online open house. There will be a presentation followed by a question and answer opportunity.
Join the event via Zoom – https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84508889709?utm_source=ehq_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=ehq-Get-Involved-Kingston-Development-Charges-Frontenac-Street-Parkette-and-Purdys-Mill-Park&utm_campaign=website&utm_medium=email&utm_source=ehq#success
More Info + feedback deadline Jan 16:
https://getinvolved.cityofkingston.ca/development-charges-review?utm_source=ehq_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=ehq-Get-Involved-Kingston-Development-Charges-Frontenac-Street-Parkette-and-Purdys-Mill-Park&utm_campaign=website&utm_medium=email&utm_source=ehq
13. Get Funding to Bring Your Community Together
Received from the City of Kingston Dec 22, 2025
Bring your community together with the Neighbourhood Activation Fund. Whether it’s a block party, a pop-up movie night under the stars or a small event with a big impact, we’ll support you to make it happen. Its goal is to support neighbourhood events and programs that build strong community relationships and fill gaps in local programming. Funding is provided in-kind to offset eligible event costs such as insurance or the cost of facility booking. More Info and to complete Application:
https://getinvolved.cityofkingston.ca/neighbourhood-activation-fund/surveys/application-form?utm_source=ehq_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=ehq-Get-Involved-Kingston-Development-Charges-Frontenac-Street-Parkette-and-Purdys-Mill-Park&utm_campaign=website&utm_medium=email&utm_source=ehq
14. 2025 Dates for LaSalle Causeway Bridge to be Open
Received from AeroSnapper via Facebook Dec 18, 2024
Hard on the heels of the report yesterday from our MP, PSPC has released the details of the dates in 2025 when it is planned to open the La Salle Causeway to larger marine vessels:
April 19, from 9 am to 5 pm
May 3, from 9 am to 5 pm
May 17, from 9 am to 5 pm
May 31, from 9 am to 5 pm
June 7, from 9 am to 7 pm
June 14, from 9 am to 7 pm
June 21, from 9 am to 7 pm
June 28, from 9 am to 7 pm
July 5, from 9 am to 7 pm
July 12, from 9 am to 7 pm
July 19, from 9 am to 7 pm
July 26, from 9 am to 7 pm
August 2, from 9 am to 7 pm
August 9, from 9 am to 7 pm
August 16, from 9 am to 7 pm
August 23, from 9 am to 7 pm
August 30, from 9 am to 7 pm
September 6, from 9 am to 7 pm
September 20, from 9 am to 5 pm
October 4, from 9 am to 5 pm
October 18, from 9 am to 5 pm
November 1, from 9 am to 5 pm
November 15, from 9 am to 4 pm
15. Queen’s Family Health Team Awarded City Grant to Connect 1,200 Patients to Primary Care.
Received from the City of Kingston, Dec 17, 2024
Last week, Kingston city councillors presented the Queen’s Family Health Team with a $100,000 cheque through the City of Kingston Primary Care Clinic Grant.
Kingston city councillors Brandon Tozzo and Gregory Ridge presented Queen’s Family Health Team with a $100,000 cheque through the City’s Primary Care Clinic Expansion Grant.
Grant funds will support the New Patient Intake Initiative, which enables the clinic to efficiently bring on unattached patients and meet each patient’s unique health needs. In addition, grant funds will help the clinic implement a program to review and update all patient records, a time-consuming task that has traditionally been performed by administrative staff. These two initiatives will support the clinic in rostering 1,200 patients through Health Care Connect.
“We at the Queen’s Family Health Team are deeply honoured to receive this grant, which will significantly enhance our ability to attach more people in our community who are in need of access to essential primary care services,” shares Queen’s Family Health Team staff in a joint statement.
“This support empowers us to increase access to quality care, and therefore, improve and maintain the health and wellness of more community members. The positive impacts of this access will not only benefit those people we attach, but also our learners and future health providers, as well as the other sectors of our health system impacted when community members do not have access to a team of primary care providers. We are beyond grateful for the support this grant will provide.”
“I am thrilled to see the Queen’s Family Health Team receive this $100,000 grant through the City of Kingston Primary Care Clinic Grant,” says Gregory Ridge, King’s Town district councillor. “This investment will make a real difference in the lives of 1,200 residents who do not have a family doctor and help improve access to primary care. The impact of this grant will help streamline patient intake processes and take critical steps in meeting the needs of our growing community. While health care is largely under provincial jurisdiction, as a city councillor I’m proud that Kingston continues to lead by supporting initiatives that enhance health care access and improve the well-being of our residents.”
The Queen’s Family Health Team is a collaboration of physicians, resident physicians, allied health professionals and administrative staff who work together to provide exemplary patient-centred care.
The City of Kingston Primary Care Clinic Expansion Grant is a dedicated initiative funded entirely by the municipality to increase access to primary care for unattached patients. Clinic recipients will receive a one-time financial incentive of $100,000 to broaden their services through the innovative use of technology, expansion of administrative support to address the paperwork burden, and the addition of allied healthcare professionals to the primary care clinic setting.
Recipients of this fund will continue to be highlighted over the coming weeks. Residents are also encouraged to follow along with the City’s physician recruitment efforts, including the Primary Care Grant, by visiting CityofKingston.ca/PhysicianRecruitment.
16. New City Housing Stabilization Program
Received from the City of Kingston Dec 18, 2024
City of Kingston, Tipi Moza (Iron Homes) and community partners celebrate opening of affordable housing initiative at 255 Yonge St.
The sounds of Indigenous voice and drum rang out Wednesday morning as representatives from Tipi Moza (Iron Homes), the City of Kingston, MP Mark Gerretsen’s office and community members, along with Mayor Bryan Paterson and Cllr. Don Amos celebrated the official opening of a new affordable housing initiative for Indigenous families in severe housing need.
The event included a greeting from Lynda Gerow and Ross Saunders, traditional drumming and singing from Yessica Belsham, and remarks from Mayor Bryan Paterson, Councillor Don Amos, Speros Kanellos with the City’s Facilities and Construction Management Department, and Tipi Moza (Iron Homes) Executive Director Winnie Peters and Communications Director Robert Rittwage.
“We are grateful to all the community partners who came together to build 255 Yonge, especially Tipi Moza (Iron Homes) and CaraCo, whose hard work has resulted in four beautiful units for Indigenous families to call home,” said Jennifer Campbell, Commissioner, Community Services, City of Kingston. “When people have access to affordable, permanent housing, it creates opportunity for movement within the transitional housing system and allows more individuals and families to access the right housing and services for their needs.”
255 Yonge St. is a four-unit building operated by Tipi Moza (Iron Homes), an Indigenous housing provider in Kingston. The development offers permanent affordable units for Indigenous families including women and children.
“Seeing 255 Yonge St. at this stage, ready to welcome new tenants, is a big milestone for the community,” said Winnie Peters. “We are grateful and excited to be providing affordable, safe, stable and long-term accommodations for Indigenous families in need.”
Tipi Moza (Iron Homes) currently oversees more than 55 units in Kingston including 17 rent-geared-to-income units, nine units of affordable housing, 10 portable housing allowances for those who self-identify as Indigenous and 19 units of transitional housing in partnership with the City of Kingston.
The construction of 255 Yonge was funded by the City and the federal government’s Rapid Housing Initiative, and completed in collaboration with CaraCo Group of Companies.
“Today, we are celebrating the creation of more affordable homes that meet the needs of Indigenous families in our community. The federal government is proud to invest in the 255 Yonge St. project, providing a better quality of life for those who needs it the most,” said Mark Gerretsen, Member of Parliament for Kingston and the Islands, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities. “I would like to congratulate all the partners who made this project a reality, and I wish the new residents great success as they settle into their new homes.”
FROM FARTHER AFIELD
17.Ontario Government Announces Energy Initiative for Home and Business Retrofits
Received from National Observer, Jan 8, 2025
Canada’s largest energy efficiency initiative was announced by Ontario, where a $10.9-billion investment will help families and businesses lower costs by retrofitting their homes.
The Ontario government’s new Home Renovation Savings Program will offer rebates of up to 30 per cent for energy efficiency upgrades, including windows, doors, insulation, heat pumps, smart thermostats, rooftop solar panels and battery storage. Money for the retrofits will be rolled out over the next 12 years.
Similar energy-saving programs were cancelled by the Ford government after it was elected in 2018. They have now been resurrected to ensure Ontario has enough energy to meet rising demand, said Stephen Lecce, minister of energy and electrification, in a press conference.
“We’re giving families and small businesses more ways to save money and energy as we launch the largest energy efficiency program in Canadian history,” Lecce said.
“Not only are these programs going to help put more money in your pockets, but they are also a crucial investment in the future of our grid. With greater pressure being placed on the province’s grid, energy efficiency programs are an opportunity to mitigate demand without compromising affordability.”
The province’s energy efficiency programs were previously restricted to homes with electric heating and certain regions, offering lower incentives. But starting at the end of this month, the program will be available to all homeowners across the province, regardless of what type of home heating they have. The rebates will be paid within 60 days of completing the program application.
The Independent Electricity System Operator reported last year that demand in Ontario is rising more rapidly than expected, with projections indicating a 75 per cent increase by 2050.
The new investment will shell out $900 million annually in energy efficiency programs, nearly tripling the $342 million average of the past 13 years.
Families could be eligible for rebates of up to $8,900 for insulation upgrades, $12,000 for heat pumps, and $10,000 for solar and battery systems.
Full article: Ontario announces billions in investment for new energy efficiency programs | Canada’s National Observer: Climate News
18. Pesticide use in Canada has skyrocketed over the past two decades.
Received from National Observer, Jan 8, 2025
Pesticide use in Canada has skyrocketed over the past two decades. Pesticide manufacturers sold Canadians more than 130 million kilograms of pesticides in 2021, a fivefold increase from 2005, a new analysis has found.
Full article:Pesticide use in Canada soars, even as danger becomes clearer | Canada’s National Observer: Climate News
19. Winters in Great Lakes Region Have Been Shrinking by Two or More Weeks Since 1995
https://www.yahoo.com/news/winters-great-lakes-region-shrinking-100513887.html January 8, 2025. A new study puts more scientific teeth behind everything from having white Christmases to how long ski hills stay open: Winters on the Great Lakes are shrinking.
OF GENERAL INTEREST
20: How Winter Can Cause Erectile Dysfunction or Make it Worse
https://www.thestar.com/life/health-wellness/heres-how-winter-affects-the-male-sex-drive-and-what-to-do-about-it/article_dd9bbab6-abff-11ef-8502-67ac9928f03a.html?source=newsletter&utm_source=ts_nl&utm_medium=email&utm_email=C2DC149D63666E2CCEC3DF1E9C241C82&utm_campaign=frst_7017
21. Homemade Method for Rough Heels
Received frpm www.msn.com, Dec 21, 2024
Homemade method for rough heels
Are your heels as rough as a grater? During the fall and winter, they’re “doomed” to prolonged confinement in shoes under damp conditions. How can you remedy this? You don’t have to rush to the pharmacy or store to find the perfect product. It’s worth rummaging amongst products you have on hand. Our choice is baking powder, which you surely have in your kitchen.
It turns out it’s useful not only for baking holiday cakes. You can also use it to prepare a foot soak.
How to prepare a baking powder soak?
Simply dissolve one tablespoon of baking powder in about 1 litre (approximately 4 cups) of water, then soak your feet for about 10 to 15 minutes. Afterwards, thoroughly clean your feet and apply a moisturizing cream. The soak can be used two to three times a week.
Soaking your feet in water and baking powder smooths the skin, eliminates unpleasant odours, and soothes irritations. The skin becomes delicate and soft, ready for further care, like removing dead skin cells.
22. Co-operate for Canada Calls for Cooperation between Left Wing Parties
Forwarded by Kathleen O’Hara, Jan 6, 2025
C4C Calls for Cooperation, Opposes Non-Confidence Threat
Toronto – Cooperate for Canada (C4C) has sent a letter to the leaders of the Bloc, Green, NDP, and Liberal Parties urging them to cooperate together to give the majority of Canadians a strong voice in Parliament in the next election.
It has also urged the NDP and Bloc Parties to refrain from voting non-confidence in the Liberal government – which would hand the country over to the Conservatives who only represent a minority of voters.
“We are calling on the Centre/Left parties to maintain the status quo until the official election date in October this year,” said Barbara Schumacher, Cooperate for Canada. “We are hoping they use this time to unify their efforts to prevent a Conservative victory which would roll back all the essential climate action and social and economic initiatives underway.”
Cooperate for Canada is lobbying Centre/Left party leaders, staff, and supporters to work together to prevent vote-splitting in certain ridings – identifying a unity candidate in some cases. When these parties attack each other instead of the Conservatives, the Conservatives often win with a minority of votes.
“Canada is facing several crises – climate chaos, lack of affordability, a growing gap between rich and poor, threats to our democracy and even our sovereignty,” said Marilyn Hay, Cooperate for Canada. “This is no time to put partisan politics before Canada’s interest and citizens’ well- being.”
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Barbara Schumacher – bschumac@uwaterloo.ca (English), 1-226-753-9861
Marilyn Hay – haymarilyn7@gmail.com (French), 1-226-972-3699
Inquiries from the general public: info@cooperateforcanada.ca
23. Small Modular Reactors Zoom Info Meeting, Jan 10, 2025
Received from SWITCH Ontario, Jan 7, 2025
| Just a friendly reminder that Small Modular Reactors is happening this week on 10 Jan 2025 at 8:00 AM, you don’t want to miss it! Click the link below to find out more and on 10 Jan 2025 to join! https://www.switchontario.ca/events 24. New York Has Just Implemented Congestion Pricing on Cars. Canada Next? |
Received frorm CBC.ca Jan 8, 2025 – Nicole Mortillaro
New York City, a bustling metropolis with eight million people all trying to get somewhere, has now put a price on cars entering part of Manhattan. It is the first of its kind in North America.
The charge, called congestion pricing, is aimed at reducing traffic and pollution. The city also plans to use the money to upgrade its public transportation system, run by the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA).
Full Article: https://www.msn.com/en-ca/news/canada/new-york-city-has-just-implemented-congestion-pricing-on-cars-is-a-big-city-in-canada-next/ar-AA1xal37?ocid=msedgntp&pc=U531&cvid=95d7ba59cd6c4c1fcf914b4937cb9089&ei=10
25. New Research: Nearly 1/3 of ON Fatal Overdose Victims Had Recently Visited a Hospital
Received from the Toronto Star, Jan 9, 2024 – Victoria Gibson
Inside Ontario hospitals and emergency rooms, the same scene has played out hundreds of times. A patient, advised they need medical care, decides to leave against a doctor’s advice. Within a week, they’ve died of an overdose.
This is the grim picture painted by new research from the Ontario Drug Policy Research Network and Public Health Ontario, examining a staggering rise in accidental drug and alcohol-related deaths — up from an average of 4.5 deaths each day in 2018 to eight deaths daily in 2022.
Nearly a third of people who died were in hospital in-patient wards or emergency rooms within a week of their deaths, the researchers found. One in four patients who were admitted to hospital within their final week left before doctors believed they were ready — twice as many as four years earlier — as well as one in 10 patients in the ER.
It’s a finding that caught investigator Tara Gomes off guard, with more people leaving than she expected. “That is an enormous number of people who are coming into our hospital system looking for some kind of help with their health-care needs and are leaving without getting that help,” Gomes said.
Their findings build on previous reports that revealed one in five people who died from substance toxicity were treated in hospital for an overdose they survived in the year before death.
To Gomes, the evidence suggests missed opportunities to connect with people in vulnerable moments and keep them linked to care that could prevent the worst outcomes.
Full article: https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/nearly-a-third-of-fatal-overdose-victims-sought-health-care-the-week-before-their-deaths/article_d5be6b1c-cdde-11ef-8470-7faa6082f9c0.html?source=newsletter&utm_source=ts_nl&utm_medium=email&utm_email=C2DC149D63666E2CCEC3DF1E9C241C82&utm_campaign=frst_7585&utm_campaign_id=sub
Until next time.
Cheers,
Mary Farrar, President,
Friends of Kingston Inner Harbour