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Midland News

‘Take NIMBY argument to OLT, I dare you,’

Gordon says as council approves 12-storey build

By: Derek Howard, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Source: MidlandToday.ca, Jul 10, 2025

On the surface, a simple request to Midland council for a zoning bylaw amendment for 1191 Harbourview Drive would facilitate allowing a two-12-storey-tower condo-hotel on town lands if approved; which, council did approve in a 5-4 decision.

However, the hour-long discussion was much deeper and involved a rare allowance for discussion resulting in light contention of facts by planners, last-minute correspondences, councillors pulling shy of accusations and others voting in favour despite “hating” their decision.

The item was in regard to a proposed request for zoning change from a highway commercial zone to a site-specific apartment building/mixed-use within a highway commercial zone, and returned to a special meeting of council after a public meeting in May attended by many concerned residents about the 12-storey height and other issues.

Community and growth executive director Steve Farquharson spoke to the primary reason staff was recommending a denial of the request, stating it did not meet the town’s official plan policy nor the Provincial Policy Statement.

“When we got this application, and going through it for – now – two buildings at 12-storeys (from the previous design)… there’ve been indications that the height may not be as high as what’s being applied for,” said Farquharson.

“Well, that’s part of the application process; staff are not just going to support a number because that’s what you want. You have to justify it, you have to provide the material to support that,” Farquharson added.

Council members voted in favour to have Kaitlin applicants speak in defence of their request, with director of business development Devon Daniell reiterating a last-minute correspondence sent to council the day prior (without town staff able to address it), claiming that Simcoe County planners and Kaitlin lawyers had agreed the request was in order.

Daniell also committed to lowering the height of the two towers to 10-storeys as per neighbouring resident concerns, despite the application continuing to request a 12-storey maximum height.

As well, Daniell admitted that roughly a third of units had already been sold in the first design when the building was pitched, where each floor was sold to separate owners to lease to tenants; and by decreasing to 10 storeys, buyers were offered an opportunity to opt-out or stay-in as the proposal underwent design change.

Some council members stated disappointment in the admission.

Deputy Mayor Beth Prost called it a “risky business” to sell units before getting approval while Coun. Bill Meridis raised past Kaitlin controversy over contentious developments including Bayport Village, saying he would not support the zoning request.

Coun. Sheldon East said he felt council was locked in due to pre-sales and that he “hated that that many (units) were already approved.” Coun. Catherine MacDonald noted that “shovels could be in the ground” already for the previous design.

Mayor Bill Gordon said with staff firm in their stance against the proposal, the cause was on the shoulders of higher-tier government.

“If there’s a defect in their Provincial Policy Statement that is actually getting in the way of housing being approved in non-conventional areas of zoning, then let the province explain that.”

Gordon further reiterated his campaign promises to get more homes built in Midland, calling out potential resident opposition to his claim.

“By saying: ‘We’re going to approve this even though our staff say it doesn’t align with the Policy Statement’… let someone challenge us on that. Let them take us to the (Ontario Land Tribunal) and say: ‘Midland approved housing, we don’t think there should be housing built in Midland; or if it is it shouldn’t be here, it should be somewhere else.’

“Take that NIMBY argument to the OLT, I dare you,” Gordon said. “I’m not going to spend tax money defending us getting in the way of building housing, only to have it appealed, overturned, and have to pay the cost to the proponent. I will go down approving housing if it’s the last thing I do as Mayor; I will approve every application that comes to us that’s reasonable.”

In a recorded vote, a 5-4 approval was granted by Gordon, Prost (who flipped a coin), and Coun. Jaz Patel, Jamie-Lee Ball, and Roberta Bald voting yay; as Coun. East, Meridis, MacDonald, and Eric Major voted nay.

Following the decision, Daniell told MidlandToday it was a “great decision” to “bring a great project forward to Midland.

“It was close, but we believe council made the right decision for Midland,” said Daniell. “This is just the first step. There’s a long process to go through with the site plan application, so we’ll be taking a lot of feedback from local residents, staff, and commenting agencies to come back with a great plan.”

Gordon told MidlandToday that the decision also proved that council could achieve results without resorting to provincially-mandated Strong Mayor Powers.

“Tonight was my first test, and I’m so proud of the debate and ultimately the decision. Most especially, the fact that I didn’t get painted into a corner where I’d have to choose whether or not to use those new powers. My faith in this council as a team and my planning staff remains intact.”

The zoning bylaw amendment recommendation report for 1191 Harbourview Drive is available through the council agenda on the town of Midland website.

 

Hitting right note: Finished bandshell sets stage for Midland park events

By: Derek Howard, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter,

Source: MidlandToday.ca, Jul 11, 2025

The grand unveiling of the redesigned Rotary Stage bandstand in Little Lake Park should be music to everyone’s ears.

An announcement was made Friday morning to celebrate an Ontario Trillium Foundation grant for $149,900 which provided funding for a roof to the performance area, finishing the reconstruction project which had begun in 2022.

“The new stage roof not only completes the vision for this outdoor venue, but ensures that performers, organizers, and audiences alike can enjoy events rain or shine with comfort and confidence,” said Leslie Stroud, representing Simcoe North MPP Jill Dunlop.

As noted by town operations manager Josh Fuller, the original stage was constructed in 2005 through the Midland Rotary Club to provide entertainment in the heart of Little Lake Park for residents and visitors.

An Ontario Trillium Foundation grant was obtained in 2022 which allowed the town to provide paved ampitheatre-type seating on the former natural slope of Little Lake Park. As well, a new roof had been budgeted in 2024 for the stage area.

“Building on that momentum,” said Fuller, “we were able to secure funds through another OTF-approved grant to help us put up our new stage and new bandshell, including the installation of the roof and ensuring the space is safe and modern, and accessible for all.”

A further redesign of the stage integrated modern infrastructure and accessibility features, such as lighting for performers and along the seating edges, and coverings for the performance area and electrical components.

“The (audience) lighting came in after the fact,” said Fuller, “because once we set it up, we felt it was very dark. We knew that the new bandshell would have lighting, but we wanted to make sure it was safe for everyone to use. The lighting came in with that last grant as well.”

Midland Mayor Bill Gordon stated that while it could normally take a municipality years of long-range investing to provide service improvements to public space, government funding brought the long-range into a short-term solution.

“The province supporting us with grant funding allows us to actually action some of our goals in our parks and trails strategic plans that we’ve made, and our master plans,” said Gordon, “and actually put them into action in the near term rather than the long term.

“From my perspective, the province is being the best partner ever this term for us,” added Gordon, “so I’m going to continue that relationship as long as I can, and make Midland better for it.”

Gordon also reiterated a council commitment for accessibility, noting that Midland-born former lieutenant-governor David Onley achieved great success as a champion for accessibility legislation within Ontario.

When asked how long the new bandshell would last given the two decades of the previous stage, Fuller replied: “I’m hoping double that. The Rotary Club who originally put up the stage did a fantastic job; nearly 20 years of service and memories that it provided to the town – you can’t beat that.”

Information on town-hosted live events at the Rotary Stage can be found on the community, tourism, and culture page of the Midland website.

Established as a provincial government agency in 1982, the Ontario Trillium Foundation handed out $105 million in grants to 730 non-profit organizations in 2024.

 

Council hears there is ‘low support’ for paid parking in downtown

By: Derek Howard, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Source: MidlandToday.ca, Jul 14, 2025

Parking issues in Midland are one step closer to being resolved, as per two recent matters raised at the recent special meeting of council.

A report regarding a parking bylaw amendment for electric vehicle charging stations was presented to council, which would allow bylaw enforcement to ticket any non-compliant vehicle in the four designated harbour parking spots.

Discussion across the dias, prompted by Coun. Eric Major, dove into the potential for electric vehicle users to be ticketed for remaining in the parking spots beyond charge times.

Coun. Bill Meridis drew attention to the prime waterfront parking spaces, noting that if an electric vehicle had charged but remained in the parking spot, a $15-per-hour fee would be levied by Lakeland Solutions upon the vehicle owner – to be collected solely by that business.

“The company is making all the money, and we’re making nothing,” said Meridis, sharing a similar concern raised independently in a Penetanguishene council discussion that same evening.

Coun. Jamie-Lee Ball called the subject a moot point as electric vehicle owners were generally familiar with charging station usage, and the bylaw would be targeted to other vehicles taking advantage of those parking spots.

Steve Farquharson, the town’s community and growth executive director, reiterated that the bylaw amendment would allow for parking enforcement of the installed stations, later saying the matter was a legislative provincial requirement in addition to being a requirement of the lease. It was approved by council.

The second item addressed phase one of a strategic parking study, presented by representatives of consultants R.J. Burnside.

Approximately 1,100 parking spots are available on-street or in municipal lots from Yonge Street to the harbour (between First Street and Midland Avenue), and along parts of Bayshore Drive. The lots at the Pete Pettersen Park boat launch also contain roughly 100 spots.

During the previous term of council, updated parking kiosks installed throughout the downtown core had been considered faulty. A priority of the current term for council was to remove and sell the kiosks while designating the otherwise revenue-generating parking spaces as free parking until the matter could be considered.

The first phase of the parking study looked at consultations with businesses and residents including an April open house session, as well as various surveys.

“Overall, there was low support for introducing paid parking in the downtown, particularly among business owners and employees,” said RJ Burnside project manager and engineer Gordon Hui.

“Many emphasized that paid parking plays an important role in supporting customer traffic, accessibility, and economic health for local businesses,” Hui added, “and for the public survey we heard a preference for free parking.”

Several on council were appreciative of the report, while some had reservations. Coun. Sheldon East asked for the consultants to look to other municipalities for ways of enforcing against parking spot “squatters”.

Major restated his concerns from last year that the consultants wouldn’t experience first-hand the adverse winter weather conditions unique to Midland and urged them to visit; he was told by Farquharson that the intent was to have the study completed by early fall, before the arrival of snow.

Farquharson also noted that the parking study would “dovetail” into other prominent studies including Midland Bay Landing and the waterfront master plan.

Council received the report and presentation as information only.

The reports on the electric vehicle charging stations bylaw and the phase one strategic parking study are available through the council agenda on the town of Midland website.

Council meetings are held every third Wednesday, and can be viewed on Rogers TV cable channel 53 when available, or through the livestream on the Rogers TV website. Archives of council meetings are available through Rogers TV and on the Town of Midland’s YouTube channel.

Town’s $149,900 OTF grant from the Province helped with renovations at the LLP Amphitheatre Stage

 

Town’s $149,900 OTF grant from the Province helped with renovations at the LLP Amphitheatre Stage

By Town of Midland News, July 11, 2025

Town of Midland’s $149,900 OTF grant from the Province helped with renovations at the Little Lake Park Amphitheatre Stage

(July 11, 2025, Midland ON) Today, a representative from MPP Jill Dunlop’s constituency office, Leslie Stroud, met with Mayor Bill Gordon, members of Town Council and staff at the Little Lake Park Amphitheatre to celebrate the results of a $149,900 Capital grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The grant, which was awarded in 2023, was used to make needed renovations to the amphitheatre.

“Little Lake Park has long been a gathering place where the spirit of Midland comes alive through music, celebration, and community,” said Jill Dunlop, MPP for Simcoe North. “I’m thrilled to see the provincial Ontario Trillium Foundation program provide support to enhance this special space with the completion of the stage roof. This investment means more opportunities for residents and visitors alike to enjoy local events in a beautiful, accessible outdoor venue. Congratulations to the Town of Midland on this exciting milestone.”

The Town of Midland put its capital grant to work in 2024 to complete stage renovations and build a new amphitheatre roof over the Little Lake Park Rotary Stage. This work complements a previous OTF from 2022 that allowed the Town to construct amphitheatre-style seating at Little Lake Park.  All these improvements – from the new seating to the recent stage renovations and construction of the new stage roof – amplify the Town’s ability to provide a welcoming, accessible space for community celebrations and live performances for residents and visitors in the North Simcoe area to enjoy.

“The Town of Midland is grateful to turn this Ontario Trillium Foundation grant into meaningful change in our community,” said Mayor Bill Gordon. “As a cultural and tourism hub for North Simcoe, enhancing our outdoor amphitheatre creates a reimagined gathering space like never before, where we can offer a great stage for artists to shine while bringing people together to celebrate all that Midland has to offer.”

The new stage was built with accessibility in mind and allows for a seamless transition onto the stage. A timber structure pavilion was installed overtop of the stage to provide cover from the elements for performers. New lighting in the pavilion and lights along the sides of the seating stairs will extend the of this space well into the evenings.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested nearly $105M into 732 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.

 

Prestigious Hartog Award presented to two deserving individuals

By GBGH, July 9, 2025

MIDLAND – At the Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) Foundation Annual General Meeting on Monday, June 23, the annual Robbert Hartog Health Innovation Award was presented to two deserving individuals from Georgian Bay General Hospital.  Alex Rawn and Alanna Bouffard were recognized for their outstanding achievements that demonstrate the values of Robbert Hartog, who worked tirelessly on behalf of Georgian Bay General Hospital and the Foundation.

Established by the GBGH Foundation in 2009, the $5,000 award is shared between the winners toward furthering their professional learning and development.

“We are so fortunate to have many incredible people on the GBGH Team, and it’s a pleasure to be able to celebrate the contributions of this year’s recipients,” says Nicole Kraftscik, CEO, GBGH Foundation. “Alex and Alanna are innovators who care deeply about patients and the GBGH Team, and they truly exemplify the dedication that drives our hospital forward.”

Alex Rawn has dedicated many years of exceptional service, evolving from a Registered Nurse and Professional Practice Leader into an outstanding clinical supervisor, demonstrating unwavering commitment and excellence in every role. She is recognized for connecting teams together and ensuring successful implementation of new programs and innovative technology in Obstetrics, Surgical Services, and Ambulatory Care.

“Alex is widely regarded as a calming influence who works well as part of a team. She is extremely open to feedback and working to improve patient and staff experience,” shares Karen Redpath, clinical director, GBGH, who nominated Alex for the award. “Alex is also always ready to support the overall goals of GBGH. Her approach and collaboration is inspiring.”

Alanna Bouffard is a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Department at GBGH, and an exceptional contributor to the hospital’s DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging) committee. Her dedication and passion for DEIB initiatives have made a significant impact, particularly through her involvement in events like Bell Let’s Talk Day, the ItStarts campaign, and her work on the creation of a learning module for understanding and proper use of personal pronouns.

“Alanna’s enthusiasm for DEIB initiatives is truly infectious, and her consistent participation and dedication make her a strong champion for our ongoing efforts,” shares Angela Wiggins, VP of people & culture and CHRO at GBGH. “Supporting Alanna through the Hartog award will allow her to continue to pursue her education and bring those efforts back to GBGH for further support and growth.”

The GBGH Foundation Board of Directors and staff extend their sincere congratulations and heartfelt thanks to this year’s recipients.

 

Whispers on the Wind: Hospice Huronia and Students Create Space for Healing

By Huronia Hospice, July 9, 2025

Penetanguishene – Hospice Huronia is honoured to unveil a new Wind Phone at its Summer Memorial on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, from 6–8 p.m. at Tomkins House. This heartfelt addition to the hospice grounds was brought to life through a special collaboration between volunteers, high school students, and hospice staff. The Wind Phone is a symbolic and private space where individuals can “speak” to loved ones who have passed. The booth was thoughtfully handcrafted by students from Georgian Bay District Secondary School’s Construction Technology class, under the guidance of teacher Mr. Luke Conroy. Built from cedar, the booth houses a vintage rotary telephone donated by Tammy Vaters, Hospice Huronia’s Supportive Care Lead, which is being lovingly dedicated to her parents, Ken and Connie Brown, with special remembrance for her mother Connie, whose spirit continues to inspire connection, reflection, and love. “At Hospice Huronia, we are always looking for meaningful ways to support individuals through grief,” says Debbie Kesheshian, Executive Director of Hospice Huronia. “The Wind Phone is a powerful new addition to our grounds, and I’m so proud of the compassionate collaboration that made it possible. It reflects the heart of our mission to offer comfort, connection, and care when it’s needed most.” The Wind Phone has been carefully placed within a newly enhanced garden space on the hospice grounds. Hospice Huronia extends heartfelt thanks to its dedicated Garden Volunteers and Facilities Lead, Andrew Moreau, for creating such a serene and beautiful environment for the Wind Phone to reside. “It’s been incredibly meaningful to support the creation of the Wind Phone at Hospice,” says Stacey Cooper, Director of Operations and Community Programs. “Seeing this idea come to life through collaboration with Tammy, Mr. Conroy and his students, and our team is a powerful reminder that small efforts, when rooted in care and brought together, can have a lasting impact.” Inspired by a concept that originated in Japan and has since spread worldwide, Wind Phones provide a symbolic outlet for expressing unspoken words, preserving memories, and finding moments of comfort during the grieving process. The Summer Memorial will include the official unveiling of the Wind Phone, along with reflections, readings, and community gathering. All are welcome to attend this special evening of remembrance and connection. For more information call Hospice Huronia at 705-549-1034 or visit www.hospicehuronia.ca

 

 

 

 

 

Local Charities Get a Boost from Huronia Community Foundation

By Scott Warnock, Director Huronia Community Foundation, July 2, 2025

MIDLAND – From food security to support for youth, programs that support and enrich our community are receiving funding from Huronia Community Foundation (HCF) through it’s “Smart and Caring” grants.  This year 26 local charities and organizations will share in almost $ 23,100.

Successful applicants qualified with programs in one or more of HCF’s seven Giving Categories, including Arts & Culture, Community Services, Health Care & Mental Health, Seniors, Sports & Recreation, Environment and Youth & Scholarships.

Among the 2025 recipients are the Georgian Bay Food Network with its Back to School Lunch Program, Waypoint Centre’s Indigenous Youth Art Program, the Dollars with Sense project by Junior Achievement NEO and the Wheels 4 Wheels Program operated by Huronia Seniors’ Volunteer Care Team.  A complete list of 2025 Smart and Caring grant recipients is available at https://www.huroniacommunityfoundation.com/charity-centre/smart-and-caring-grant-recipients/

The Smart and Caring Community Grants program was established by HCF’s Board of Directors and community minded donors so that HCF could provide funding to our local charities and non-profits.  Funds are awarded to programs and organizations that are registered charities, or other qualified donees (as defined by CRA).

Generous citizens and companies are the benefactors who fund the Huronia Community Foundation.  Working with other members of the Community Foundation of Canada, HCF then builds financial legacies through these endowments, using them to make our local community a better place to live, work and play.

 

‘A celebration of community and impact’ returns in September

By GBGH, July 3, 2025

MIDLAND – The Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) Foundation is thrilled to announce that tickets are now on sale for the highly anticipated 2025 Power of Giving event, taking place on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at a stunning private property in Tiny Township.

This year’s celebration, presented by Faris Team Real Estate Brokerage, promises an unforgettable evening of live music by BLuSouL, gourmet cuisine by Feast Catering, carefully curated cocktails from the Clam Digger Caesar Bar, and exclusive auction experiences — all in support of local healthcare. Returning as the evening’s host is the incomparable Layne, The Auctionista, whose high-energy, heart-driven style inspires audiences to come together to make a difference.

The event will also mark the official launch of the Foundation’s $20-million We See You capital campaign, aimed at transforming care for every patient who walks through GBGH’s doors.

“Our Power of Giving event is more than a fundraiser — it’s a celebration of community, compassion, and the incredible impact we can make together,” says Nicole Kraftscik, CEO, GBGH Foundation. “This year, we’re excited to be back in person, with a goal to raise more than $300,000 for essential hospital tools and technology, while celebrating the incredible generosity that has been pledged for our We See You campaign.”

The highly anticipated, limited edition Gbay Bags will be returning, along with the Power of Giving Online Auction, on Thursday, August 28.

Tickets to attend Power of Giving are $200 each and are expected to sell out quickly. For more information, and to get tickets, visit GIVE2GBGH.ca or contact the Foundation office (foundation@gbgh.on.ca or 705-526-4483). Cutline: This stunning private property in Tiny Township is the venue for the Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) Foundation’s 2025 Power of Giving event on Saturday, September 13. Tickets for the event are $200 each and available at GIVE2GBGH.ca.

 

 

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