Ukrainian Embassy representatives visit Council

Backup Generators

by Brandon Mayer

Representatives from the Ukrainian Embassy visited North Grenville’s Council at the North Grenville Municipal Centre on July 12, participating first in a small gathering, and then presenting a proposed twinning agreement for Council’s consideration.

“Even after 500 days of the Russian war in Ukraine, you still have enthusiasm and energy to support Ukraine and show your support,” said Roman Stashevskyy, First Secretary of the Embassy of Ukraine in Canada. “On behalf of all Ukrainians in this room, I thank you.”

The representatives spoke at length at the regularly scheduled Council meeting, relaying information about other twinning agreements and proposing that North Grenville twin with a city called Sokal in western Ukraine. The question was called and the motion for the twinning was passed with the Ukrainian representatives still sitting, eliciting much applause from those in the room. Housing debate drama ensues later in Council meeting

The Council meeting proceeded as regularly scheduled following the presentation. Much business was covered during the meeting which lasted well over four hours, including an update regarding the Eastern Ontario Correctional Complex (EOCC), and lengthy discussions regarding zoning by-law amendments related to the Jack/Joseph Subdivision, and the proposed Pine Hill Road development.

The presentation regarding the EOCC was given by anti-prison advocates Victor Lachance and Kirk Albert. They explained their worry that six historically significant buildings will be destroyed if the Province proceeds with jail construction during the judicial review process. This led to a request for Council to pursue an injunction to preserve the buildings in the meantime.

A further request was made for Council to match the $20,000 in funds raised by members of the public to support the judicial review process. Council has heard these requests but has not yet deliberated them, pending further information and consultation with staff.

Mayor Nancy Peckford was able to confirm that she has not yet heard back regarding the Province covering policing costs related to the prison. She also confirmed that a strong desire has been communicated by the Municipality to the Province for the purchase