Suspects charged with sexual assault, forcible confinement Park House marks recent anniversary
The Windsor Police Service-Amherstburg Detachment have charged two suspects with sexual assault, forcible confinement, and uttering threats following an investigation in Amherstburg.
According to police, officers responded to a report of a sexual assault at an apartment building in the 300 block of Victoria St. S. July 20. Through investigation, officers learned that a woman was allegedly sexually assaulted by a male suspect and prevented from leaving the apartment. It is further alleged that a female suspect was also present and failed to intervene or help the victim.
Later, the suspects allegedly approached the female victim and threatened serious bodily harm if she did not recant her statement to police. The suspects are also accused of attempting to obstruct justice.
Following an investigation, officers located and arrested the female suspect in Amherstburg August 9. The male suspect was arrested last Wednesday with the assistance of the OPP-led Repeat Offender Parole Enforcement (ROPE) Squad.
A 33-year-old man has been charged with sexual assault by choking, forcible confinement, obstructing justice, and two counts of uttering threats to cause bodily harm. A 26-year-old woman has been charged with sexual assault as a party to the offence and obstructing justice.
Anyone with information should call the Windsor Police Service - Amherstburg Detachment Criminal investigations Unit at 519-736-8559, ext. 230. People with information can also contact Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers anonymously at 519-2588477 (TIPS) or online at www.catchcrooks.com.
If a member of the public is an affected person in need of support or knows someone in need of support, please call Victim Services Windsor Essex County at 519-723-2711 or the Victim Assistance Unit at Windsor Police at 519-255-6700, ext. 4879.
By Ron Giofu
The Park House Museum gave people a look at days gone by, all as a way to mark the museum’s recent 50th anniversary.
Although the Park House was founded as a museum 51 years ago, the summer students decided they wanted to celebrate the first 50 years of the museum. The four-hour Saturday afternoon event featured hearth cooking, butter making, tea and goodies, storytelling, tours, crafts and games.
Mary Baruth, who oversaw the summer students at the event, said the students wanted to mark the museum’s past and have an event for the community to enjoy. She said it is a 50th anniversary in their 51st year.
“The students funded through the Canada Summer Jobs funding and a provincial grant planned the
event,” said Baruth. “We just wanted to celebrate and acknowledge this place is meaningful. We just wanted to celebrate that today.”
Baruth said she taught some of the students how to cook over the fire, something she said they enjoyed learning.
“That was fun because you could see the looks on their faces,” she said.
Music was performed during the event by Baruth and her friend Sherry Raeside.
In addition to activities on the main floor and second floor of the museum, tinsmith Victor Lavergne was in the pensioner’s cottage out back demonstrating tinsmithing skills. Baruth said the Park House tinsmiths recently shipped large orders to Texas and Toronto.
Continued on Page 11
Park House Museum tinsmith Victor Lavergne demonstrates the craft in the pensioner’s cottage last Saturday afternoon.
Addison Reaume churns butter in the kitchen during the Park House Museum’s “Pleasures & Pastimes” event last Saturday.
RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU
Appeal of zoning bylaw amendment for hotel development dismissed
By Ron Giofu
The Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) has ruled in the matter of the proposed new boutique hotel on Dalhousie St. and it allows the development to proceed.
The OLT ruled early last week that the appeal against bylaw 2023-51, one that provides setback relief from the town’s zoning bylaw from 7.5 metres to zero metres, is dismissed. The hearing had been conducted via video in early June.
The hotel would be a 15-unit development with a main floor restaurant/ bar space that must be enclosed.
The development at 256 Dalhousie St. is proposed by Black Dog Entertainment, owned by Richard and Colleen Peddie.
“The Tribunal is satisfied that the proposed development provides for a mixed use building within the Central Business Area and that the proposed uses within the building are permitted as-of-right in the current CG-4 zone which does not require parking or loading on the site,” the OLT’s ruling stated. “The proposed development represents appropriate intensification on this site within an identified Commercial General Area, which is well served by infrastructure, both in terms of municipal services and transportation, which will introduce a use that will support the long-term economic prosperity and increase the vitality of the Town.”
The OLT also stated: “The Tribunal is satisfied that the proposed development aligns with Town OP and the Urban Design Guidelines. The building
is located as close as possible to both street environments which creates a more pedestrian friendly environment within the downtown core. The property is accessible from the front through Dalhousie Street and from the rear through the abutting Town owned right-of-way. King's Navy Yard park provides amenity space for those frequenting the proposed hotel from the rear of 256 Dalhousie Street.”
According to the OLT’s ruling, it also states the Tribunal “is satisfied that a shadow study was completed with confirmation that there are no adverse impacts with respect to shadows as the proposed building will cast the same
shadow projections as the Salmoni building.”
The OLT added there were no studies provide to illustrate removed or reduced air flow or loss of complete sunlight to the adjacent building.
“The Tribunal is not insensitive to the fact that the abutting residents raise concerns regarding the use of 256 Dalhousie as a hotel and retail/ commercial space,” the ruling stated.
The setback was originally granted during a May 23, 2023 town council meeting. After three hours of debate on the subject that night, council members voted 4-3 in favour of the setback with Mayor Michael Prue, Deputy Mayor
Chris Gibb, Councillor Don McArthur and Councillor Linden Crain in favour. Opposed were Councillor Diane Pouget, Councillor Peter Courtney and Councillor Molly Allaire.
Richard Peddie expressed his thanks to their lawyer, planner and others who defended the zoning bylaw amendment. He said both he and Colleen haven’t worked much on the proposal, including costing updates, due to the proceedings only recently being decided.
Their focus right now is to get the “Hole in the Wall” event space re-opened, as it is being transformed into a bar space over the River Bookshop. Once that is complete, they will further go over the numbers and see where they are at with the hotel.
“We’re not saying no, we’re not saying go,” he said. “We have to analyze it and see if there is still merit in investing our money into it. We know our investments have already helped the town be better but this investment is dramatically more than what we’ve done to date.”
Hotels are “gravity” to a municipality and help draw people in and allows them to stay. He said more and more people are coming to Amherstburg from outside the area.
“There are more people coming to town than ever before,” said Peddie. “We see it in our sales. This town is on a roll.”
Peddie added “this town still needs more hotel rooms” and people he talks to say they want more places to stay in Amherstburg.
“We still need a hotel,” he said.
Man with Canada-wide driving ban charged after hit-and-run crash
An accident last Wednesday has led to several charges against a male driver.
The Windsor Police Service say they have charged a 51-year-old man with multiple offences following a hit-and-run collision in Amherstburg. Police say that shortly after 11 a.m. Aug. 14, officers responded to a report of a hit-and-run collision in the 9400 block of Malden Road.
Upon arrival, officers discovered two vehicles with substantial damage.
According to police, it was determined that an eastbound pickup truck had veered into westbound traffic and collided with two vehicles. Despite losing a front tire in the collision, police add the truck continued westbound.
No one was injured as a result of the collision. Officers quickly located the vehicle and arrested the driver at Middle Side Road and Concession 2 North.
The driver has been charged with failing to stop after an accident, operation of a vehicle while prohibited,
impaired operation of a motor vehicle, excessive blood alcohol concentration, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, and failing to comply with a release order.
In May 2024, the accused was issued a Canada-wide driving ban.
In July 2024, he was placed on conditions to remain in his residence at all times, stemming from several charges, including assault, assault with a weapon, choking, uttering threats, possession of scheduled substance, and failing to comply with a release order.
Alleged assault
Windsor Police – Amherstburg Detachment officers were dispatched to a reported assault in progress in the 200 block of Sandwich St S. last Thursday. Officers arrived and arrested a 36-year old-female and charged her with assault, assault/choking, and uttering threats to cause death. The accused was later released with a court date.
—All information courtesy of the Windsor Police Service - Amherstburg Detachment
The appeal of the zoning bylaw amendment for proposed new boutique hotel at 256 Dalhousie St. was dismissed by the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT). The ruling was issued last week.
Local author pens new mystery novel “The Diary of Death”
Book launch event held at Marsh Historical Collection
By Ron Giofu
The latest mystery novel from a local author has now been released.
“The Diary of Death” is the latest book from Amherstburg resident John Schlarbaum, with the novel being released last week.
The book launch was last Thursday evening at the Marsh Historical Collection where Schlarbaum signed copies of his new book.
“We had people waiting in line at 6:30 p.m. to get the book, which is fantastic,” said Schlarbaum.
The event’s scheduled start time was 7 p.m.
This is the 13th book for Schlarbaum and fifth featuring the lead character Steve Cassidy (the fourth where he is with his girlfriend Dawn). The number of books includes children’s books and a self-help book but Schlarbaum is predominantly a mystery writer.
Much like his last book “The Groom Wore Red,” the book is adapted from a murder mystery play that Schlarbaum had previously written and features several locations that Amherstburg residents will be familiar with.
“The Diary of Death” is a sequel to “The Groom Wore Red.”
“It started from a play we did 11 years ago for the AMG (Amherstburg’s Museums and Galleries),” said Schlarbaum. “Originally, it was an interactive murder mystery play done as a fundraiser in 2013.”
Schlarbaum explained that he expanded on the story and converted it into book form.
“When I started doing this one, it probably took me three months because I already had the bones of the story from the play script,” he said.
Previous novels have taken approximately one year, Schlarbaum pointed out.
Schlarbaum has been an
Regional phragmites program supported
By Ron Giofu
The County of Essex has agreed to look at a regional approach to deal with the problem of phragmites.
County council agreed at its August 14 meeting to support a motion from the Town of Amherstburg to have “a concerted effort to address phragmites across the county and investigate addressing phragmites on private property.”
The motion put forth by Amherstburg came from a June 25 meeting after resident and wildlife photographer Greg Nemeth sought action on the matter.
Nemeth told Amherstburg council in June the Big Creek watershed was proved to be flora and fauna productive but said in the last few years, the phragmites have made species documenting more challenging.
“Phragmites, the invasive grass, is now out-competing our own native species with its aggressive nature, transforming a once vibrant and valuable ecosystem to a battered and wounded landscape,” said Nemeth. “Wildlife would like to survive. It can’t without a place to live.”
In a letter to the County of Essex, Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue wrote: “Phragmites significantly threaten our local ecosystems, waterways, and infrastructure. Addressing this issue requires a unified effort from all municipalities within the County, as well as cooperation from private landowners. We believe that a concerted
Amherstburg resident for 17 years and has always lived in the downtown area, stating he has been within walking distance of the Rotary clock in the Navy Yard Park parkette in the four places he has lived. He wanted many of the town’s locations in the new book.
“To me, Amherstburg is still a small town because I walk every part of the downtown core every single day,” he said. “I really tried to expand the number of locations Steve and Dawn visited as part of their investigation.”
“The Diary of Death” involves historical locations and facts, with Schlarbaum stating residents and visitors alike will be able to learn a lot about the community simply by
reading the book.
“Even I found out things about Amherstburg thanks to the Marsh Collection and (collections co-ordinator) Meg Reiner,” he said. “Even if you’ve never visited Amherstburg, I think it’s a fun, small town mystery.”
Readers are excited for the new mystery novel, he said, and have become attached to the Steve and Dawn characters.
Schlarbaum will be at Art by the River this weekend selling the book and copies are also available at River Bookshop, book stores in Windsor, the Bondy House Bed and Breakfast, the Marsh Historical Collection and through his website at www.johnschlarbaum.com. The cost is $15.
and coordinated approach is essential to effectively manage and mitigate the impact of phragmites across our County. By working together, we can protect our natural environments and ensure the well-being of our communities.”
Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy called for county CAO Sandra Zwiers to address it at local CAO roundtable meetings. She said she will address it with her own CAO.
“I think it’s important. The letter speaks to a lot of things,” said Bondy. Flooding was another issue she believes is related to phragmites. She said she has done a number of garbage cleanups in ditches and believes phragmites impedes water flow and causes flooding.
Prue told county council the “serious delegation” at Amherstburg council resulted in the letter.
“The deputant was crystal clear and I agree 100 per cent with him that no matter what one individual municipalty does to fight the phragmites, it doesn’t work unless we all do it,” said Prue. “It doesn’t work unless there is a concerted plan. You can clear them off one side of the road and have the other side of the road produce the seeds and undo everything you did.”
Prue said they should do everything possible to make it a regional solution.
“It’s a losing battle if we do it alone,” said Prue. “If we all do it together, maybe in my lifetime, there won’t be any left.”
Amherstburg author John Schlarbaum shows his new mystery novel “The Diary of Death” last Thursday night (left). He also goes over a “Then and Now” board at the Marsh Historical Collection featuring how buildings looked in the past as compared to the present (above).
This weekend to be busy plus Uncommon happening Sept. 20-22
Art by the River, Vintage bike show this weekend
By RTT Staff
This upcoming weekend is shaping up to be a busy weekend in Amherstburg.
Art by the River is this Saturday and Sunday at Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada.
Upwards of 170 arts and crafts vendors will be on the grounds selling their wares, demonstrating their skills and enjoying the two-day event.
A plein air contest will feature artists vying for first, second and third prizes.
The 57th annual event will run rain or shine from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. both days. Admission is $5 per person with children 12 and under free when accompanied by an adult.
A Rib & Craft Beer Fest is happening this Friday through Sunday at the Fort Fun Centre. It runs Friday 4-11 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-11 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and will feature vendors and, of course, ribs and craft beer.
The tenth annual Southern Ontario Vintage Bicycle Show runs this Sunday at the home of Mark and Cori McGuire (6871 Concession 6 North). There is no admission to attend and is a buy, sell and display event.
Bike collectors and participants from all over southern Ontario attend the show and it also features McGuire’s antique bicycle display and museum. The McGuire collection and museum can be viewed by appointment on days other than the show by contacting Mark at mark.mcguire64@gmail.com throughout late spring, summer and early fall.
McGuire said there is no other antique bicycle show in Essex County or anywhere south of Woodstock.
The Amherstburg Uncommon Festival is returning Sept. 20-22 with the town stating there are new events this year.
The region’s first drone show is planned for Uncommon weekend with spectators able to witness the choreographed performance on the second night (Saturday, Sept. 21) along the waterfront in King’s Navy Yard Park.
The Uncommon Festival is one where people can “step into a world where steampunk meets wizards!” Shows and excitement will be featured on a “packed” weekend in the downtown core of the town. There will be costume contests with prizes, performances and
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Thanks for supporting Miracle Treat Day
Thank you to everyone who bought Blizzards on Miracle Treat Day. As a family who depends on London Health Sciences Centre for our child’s emergency and ongoing care, your support means everything.
Seeing your ill child in the hospital is something that no parent should have to experience, it’s that much worse when you’re hours away from your home, other children and support systems. It becomes even more difficult when RMHC is full and you have to sometimes go without your personal basic needs being met, food costs add up quickly, as the hospital restaurants don’t take gift cards, and even with the medical rates hotels are still $200 a night. This is where the Children’s Health Foundation comes in. Not only do they provided financial assistance,
they work with the Paediatric Family Resource Centre in the hospital to provide emotional support to families. They check in on you, they listen, and they can empathize with everything that’s going on, as they themselves have been through hospital stays with their medically fragile children.
On behalf of the families who make the 5,156 visits for ongoing care every year, the 296 visits to the emergency department every year, the families of the 98 children who require stays in the critical care unit each year, and the families of the 410 children who require care on B6 ward each year, thank you!
Your support means everything to families like mine!
—Kait Lowe Amherstburg
activities in the downtown streets.
“Amherstburg is buzzing with excitement as we prepare to host the Uncommon Festival once again!” said Mayor Michael Prue in a press release.
“This year promises to be our most spectacular yet, especially with the addition of the region’s first drone show. We are incredibly proud to bring such innovative and enchanting experiences
to our community thanks to the generous support of the Government of Ontario and our valued sponsors –Windsor Family Credit Union, Walker Aggregates and Tourism WindsorEssex Pelee Island. We can’t wait to see everyone there.”
For more information on the Amherstburg Uncommon event, go to www.visitamherstburg.ca/uncommon.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY
• Letters must stay in the 250-350 word range please.
• We reserve the right to edit for spelling, grammar and length. We also reserve the right to edit for possible libel/slander concerns.
• We reserve the right to not publish letters that we view inflammatory, inaccurate or ‘rants’ against specific people, groups, religions, governments or ethnic organizations. Those rants are more suited to social media.
• We will gladly print letters commending specific people or organizations in the community, as we believe that this helps the community as a whole.
• Please sign your letters and provide a phone number for verification or questions if we need to reach out to you.
• Anonymous letters are not printed as we cannot verify their origin.
Send letters to mail@rivertowntimes.com or drop off at the office: 80 Richmond St., Unit 9 or mail to: River Town Times, 80 Richmond St., Amherstburg ON N9V 1E9
Memories of Yesterday...
Photos courtesy of the Marsh Historical Collection 80 Richmond Street Amherstburg 519-736-9191 • www.marshcollection.org
A circa 1920s outdoor dance at the Iler Farm, now the site of Caldwell Towers on Dalhousie Street South. The Iler Farm, owned by John and Hazel Iler, was often a place for community activities. Threshing bees were held here, and during the winter, ice skating was
Town denies request for Laird Ave. SDU, front yard location a sticking point
By Ron Giofu
Despite an administrative recommendation to the contrary, Amherstburg town council has unanimously denied a request for a secondary dwelling unit (SDU) on Laird Ave.
The contentious issue came up at the Aug. 12 meeting and featured a 25-page report on the agenda that arrived at the recommendation with two options council could have chosen to let it proceed. Council members instead rejected it, citing concerns that were raised mainly over the front yard location, the structure’s height and distance from the main home.
The front yard location was of particular concern to many on council and that they don’t want to see such front yard locations anywhere else in town either.
Mayor Michael Prue said there were “deficiencies” that he had with the proposal, including side yard setbacks, balconies, the building height and the distance of the unit from the main home.
Voting no to the request was “defendable and refutable,” said Councillor Peter Courtney.
Courtney said the bylaw says “not in the front yard.” He said he was not convinced to allow it based on what he read in the report from town staff and consultants and what he heard from administration.
Councillor Linden Crain made the motion to deny the application believing “it does not meet our current zoning bylaw 1999-52 and I’m not prepared to allow ADU’s (alternate dwelling units) in front yards at this time.”
McArthur thanked administration for its report but “there’s two sides to every coin.” He said there was a zoning bylaw put in place “with full knowledge” of waterfront properties of the characteristics of Amherstburg and the ADU’s that already existed in lakefront areas. The council of the day supported the zoning bylaw in 2019 not to allow ADU’s in front yards, he said.
“I disagree vehemently but politely with administration’s assertion that we are prohibiting ADU’s if we don’t want them in front yard,” he said. “I think that’s like saying the Government of Ontario prohibits driving. They don’t. The Government of Ontario puts what they believe are reasonable limits on drivers. You have to be 16. You have to pass a test. It’s not a prohibition. By saying we don’t want them on front yards, I think we are making a conscious choice as a community that it would hurt the character of the town and be needlessly disruptive to the current character of the town.”
McArthur added the town is updating the Official Plan and zoning bylaw and they are guiding documents. If they are “changed on the fly,” it’s not honouring the spirit of the documents.
“I think if we are going to allow them in front yards, it should only happen as part of a broader community discussion of the Amherstburg we want in the future,” said McArthur.
The request to allow a distance of 48.7m setback from the main home as opposed to the current 20m distance was mentioned by McArthur.
“Once you go to 48.7, you can go to 200m because you are no longer following your regulations and you are making it up on the fly,” he believed. “I think the 20 to 48.7, when you look at the aerial map, it’s significant when you look at the properties and it’s a severance by stealth. It’s no longer an accessible dwelling unit, it’s a dwelling unit.”
Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb also thanked staff and the consultants for their “very comprehensive report.” He also appreciated the negotiation of “a more palatable option for us to consider but at the end of the day, the distances need to be tested, if it comes to that, by the (Ontario) Land Tribunal. I don’t want to see ADU’s in front yards in Amherstburg.”
Gibb admitted it was a gamble as he believed “we’re more than likely going to lose if it goes to the OLT (Ontario Land Tribunal).”
“I want to see us do that. I want to see us question that. We have to build a town we can enjoy and we want to determine how it goes,” said Gibb. “I think the fight is worth it.”
The deputy mayor said the town has to step in and
defend rights of the residents, he added.
“ADU’s are new. We need to think carefully how and where they’re being built to ensure it does not diminish the character of our community,” added Crain.
While the province wants municipalities to build houses faster “but in some cases they are not providing the tools and guidelines to effectively do that. With appeal rights being diminished, now the municipalities have to take a stand for residents’ voices that cannot be heard.”
Prue added he has seen many changes to appeal rights over the last 35 years. He believed the public has no right to appeal and that council has to be the one’s to defend them.
“There’s no one else to stand up for them. If this council wants to defend them, I will support that. I think it’s important the people have a voice and their voice is us,” said the mayor.
Prue not only wanted the request denied because it’s in the front yard, but also due to the proximity from the main home. He also noted an increase requested for the height of the proposed structure. He also voiced objections to proposed balconies on the proposed SDU and other setbacks.
If the town “hires the right person” if it goes to the OLT and the town opposes it in totality, Prue was confident in a “reasonable chance” of success.
Councillor Diane Pouget also thanked staff and consultants but also the residents of Laird Ave. for standing up for what they believe in.
“The number one reason I’m voting against it is because it’s precedent setting,” she said.
Concerns over the town’s ability to control the tenancy of the unit was mentioned by Pouget. She believed there are setbacks that have to be enforced and she also noted the distance from the SDU and the proposed height changes.
A report from manager of planning services Christopher Aspila and town planner Janine Mastronardi stated the professional planning analysis, recommendation and rationale determined by administration was vetted through a third party professional planner. MillerSilani Inc., represented by Kevin Miller and Larry Silani, were on hand to field questions from council members.
Deputy CAO/director of development services Melissa Osborne said at the start of the debate if council were to refuse the request, a planning rationale would have to be given. Osborne said there were a lot of concerns from the community on this file and a consultant was used to help vet concerns. She said the town wanted “a second set of eyes” on the matter so their recommendation could be made with additional confidence.
“By way of this comprehensive professional planning analysis report, Council is being asked to support Administration’s recommendation for the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment to grant relief for a proposed Secondary Dwelling Unit that would be built atop of an existing accessory structure in the front yard of 24 Laird Avenue. It should be noted the applicant, upon hearing the comments and concerns at the SPM (statutory public meeting), provided an amended submission, which is what the planning opinion is based upon,” the report stated.
The conclusion of the report noted “it is the opinion of administration that the Zoning Bylaw Amendment allows for the appropriate development of the subject lands, is consistent with the provisions of the Planning Act, is consistent with the policies of the Provincial Policy Statement, 2020, conforms with the policies of the County of Essex Official Plan and the Town of Amherstburg Official Plan and maintains the intent of the Town of Amherstburg Zoning Bylaw.”
Regarding locating it in the front yard, the report noted “in the context of Essex County and Windsor, with extensive lengths of waterfront property along the Lake Erie, Detroit River and Lake St. Clair shorelines, it is very common to see primary dwellings built at the rear of properties and carriage houses / secondary dwelling units located in the front yard.” The report also states that due to the “unique configuration of the lot at 24 Laird Ave. S.,” the current zoning on the property prohibiting a front yard SDU “does not conform to
the provisions of the Planning Act” and “the proposed rezoning brings the zoning into conformance with the Planning Act.”
Mastronardi told town council that concerns were addressed in the report. She said town staff met with the proponent to address some concerns, noting the applicant has agreed to reduce the size of the proposed structure to 1,025 square feet. To mitigate privacy concerns, she said two mature trees with a minimum height of 14-feet were to be planted.
McArthur believed the only reason town council was hearing the matter rather than the committee of adjustment was due to the matter of it being requested for a front yard. Aspila said there is a prohibition of front yard SDU’s “and the applicant is requesting relief from that provision of the zoning bylaw.” Aspila added that prohibition came into effect in 2019, with Mastronardi adding Amherstburg was one of the first municipalities to deal with the issue through Official Plan and zoning bylaw amendments and “there was no one to look to” for comparisons at that time.
“This is our first kick at the can for these provisions and other municipalities waited longer,” she said, noting they wanted to keep on top of provincial legislation at that time.
On the issue of the 48.7 metre setback request between the primary and secondary dwelling units, the administrative report states the request to permit the 48.7m setback “maintains the intent of the zoning bylaw.” “The intent of the required 20m between a primary dwelling and secondary dwelling within an accessory structure was to ensure SDUs on agriculturally zoned properties did not remove too much agricultural land out of production. A farm parcel that stretches from concession to concession would not be able to have the primary dwelling fronting on one concession with the secondary dwelling fronting on the next concession. In writing the zoning provisions it was assumed that there would be few residentially zoned properties that would be able to accommodate accessory structures containing SDUs greater than 20m from the primary dwelling. If an instance occurred where a greater setback would be proposed minor variance or zoning approvals would be applied for allowing for each property to be assessed on its own merits,” the written report stated. “In the case of 24 Laird Ave. S., the proposed secondary dwelling unit will be located in an existing accessory structure after proposed renovations are complete. The building already existing and the lot configuration do not allow for compliance with the 20m setback. The intent of the ZBL regarding the 20m setback is that the secondary dwelling remains ancillary to the primary dwelling.”
Increasing the height from the permitted 5.5m to 7m was addressed in the report as well.
Continued on Page 15
Planning meeting addresses possible new store/gas bar in Malden Centre
By Ron Giofu
A possible new gas bar and convenience store in Malden Centre was the topic of debate at a special planning meeting last week.
The new store, should it proceed, would be located at 6754 County Road 50 at the southwest corner of County Road 20 and County Road 50, and the meeting was regarding a zoning bylaw amendment that would be needed. According to a report from manager of development services Christopher Aspila, the site is currently zoned Commercial Neighbourhood (CN-8) but the amendment would allow for the addition of a gas bar on the site.
The property is owned by T/A General Contracting, with planner Robert Brown representing the applicant at last Monday evening’s meeting.
Brown told town council it is 22,000 square feet in size and noted the building on site was used as a self-serve car wash. He said the convenience store is a permitted use, based on the zoning, but the gas bar needs the amendment. The proponent has worked with town administration and the County of Essex on the project and a site plan has been developed.
“In terms of comments we’ve received from a couple of neighbors in the area with regard to this, the one thing I’ll start with is certainly we recognize the fact this is introducing a similar use to what is already available in Malden Centre and does present a competition issue,” said Brown. “From a planning standpoint, we’ve reviewed the site and administration is happy it complies with the Official Plan.”
Setbacks will not be reduced further than what they already are, Brown stated.
The former car wash was subject to numerous breakins, he acknowledged, but added there would be people on the site during the day at the gas bar. Brown added Windsor police also provided input, and their comments were factored into the site plan.
An access point off of County Road 20 would be an entrance-only, he added, with a two-way entrance/exit relocated slightly north on County Road 50. Fencing
would be replaced, landscaping added, and a photometric study was completed regarding lighting.
“This will not be a 24-hour operation,” he noted.
Drainage was also identified, Brown added, and that would be addressed through the site plan.
Randy Ure, who owns neighbouring Ure’s Country Kitchen with his wife Laurie, voiced several concerns. He said they have been in Malden Centre for 36 years and have made numerous upgrades during that time.
Ure said they put in new gas tanks and did the environmental work that went into it. The neighbouring site was a gas station from 1939 until the early 1980’s.
“When we did environmental remediation to our site, we hauled ten semi loads of contaminated soil away at a cost of over $1 million in today’s money,” he said.
Ure said when his business developed the minigolf course, they did additional environmental work including soil samples and capping an old well.
“This is not a good idea for the community because the Town of Amherstburg has two gas stations on a busy road with a major development along the road with a population of over 10,000 people. Malden Centre has a couple hundred residents and we’re on a back country road. It does not need two gas stations,” he said.
Ure also wondered about a weeping bed at the site and whether the size of the site is suitable. He also questioned setbacks from neighbouring homes.
“I don’t think there should be an entrance off of County Road 20, across the turning lane,” he said. “If you are going into the entrance off County Road 20, you’d have to cross this turning lane.”
Parking was another issue raised by Ure. He said that was an issue his business had to address when the mini-golf course was developed.
Accessibility was another issue Ure raised, as was additional environmental concerns. Lighting was another matter that was raised.
Traffic in the area was brought up by Ure as well, as he noted there is additional residential development nearby. Speeding is an issue in the area, he stated.
“Laurie and I have run our business in Malden Centre
for 36 years, following all of the rules and regulations from all the different levels of government. We’ve made changes to our property to benefit ourselves and our community,” he said. “It was a shock to hear of a new gas station across the road. It is not needed in Malden Centre and it is not wanted in Malden Centre.”
Ure’s Country Kitchen has received a license for beer and wine sales and is getting ready with walk-in coolers and shelving, he added. He said they would rather have something that complements their neighbourhood and business.
“If we end up with a gas station across from me, we’re going to have a gas war which is going to be great for the customers in Amherstburg, but nobody is going to money selling gas in Malden Centre,” said Ure.
Calling a gas station “a legacy development,” Ure predicted it will be there for over 50 years. The gas station is becoming more difficult, adding “it’s all about volume” with Ure’s diversifying with the store, firewood and the mini-golf course.
“This is not going in for the next little while,” he said. “This is 50 years before it’s going to be dismantled and taken apart.”
Ure suggested the owners of the new project “should have come over to me and Laurie and negotiated to buy our gas station. After 36 years, I would have been more willing to make a deal and let them have the gas station in Malden Centre.”
Nearby resident Brandon Kolody agreed with Ure and while noting the point that diversity of business is not the purview of council, he believed there are more useful uses of the property than a second gas bar.
“Ure’s has provided everything the community needs for many years now,” he said. “To have a second business come in and potentially destroy what Randy has built in that amount of time is concerning to us.”
Kolody added traffic is another concern, noting he and his wife have two children. He said they use the bike lanes to use the school yard and park and was concerned over safety.
Continued on Page 15
$7,500
Busy intersection to be reviewed by county
By Fred Groves
Amherstburg may not be getting stop lights at the corner of Middle Side Road and Howard Avenue this year but improvements are coming to a busy intersection closer to town.
At last week’s county council meeting, Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb introduced a notice of motion that could address safety issues at the corner of Lowes Side Road and Sandwich St. S.
“I consider it a simple issue. Amherstburg has recently completed a traffic master plan that speaks to a lot of traffic calming and improving the accessibility for pedestrians in our community,” said Gibb.
He explained that the town would like to see a pedestrian crossing and the transition from 70km to 50km be increased which would give drivers more time to reduce their speed.
Mayor Michael Prue elaborated, noting that there is an old-age home, a doctor’s office and the Blue Haven Apartments at the intersection which all require additional safety measures.
“There are some difficult roadways and to narrow it (speed limit) down further would provide quite a bit of safety,” said Prue.
The intersection is the responsibility of the county which has decided to look closely at the
requests by Amherstburg including doing a complete review of speed reduction and establishing a pedestrian crosswalk.
Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey agreed that it was an intersection that needed to be looked at but her concern was that it seems more Notices of Motion for traffic were coming forward to the county level.
“Is this in alignment with our current workplan or are we going to be realigning the current workplan for something that is new?,” asked Bailey.
Essex County Director of Infrastructure and Planning Allan Botham said that the intersection of Lowes Side Road and Sandwich is currently not part of the current workplan but wants individual municipalities to continue to bring concerns to the county level.
Bailey wanted to know what work could be set aside to proceed with such requests as the one from Amherstburg.
“I want to be mindful of how we conduct our work,” she said.
County CAO Sandra Zwiers said that administration is working on a report that hopefully will add more transparency when it comes to knowing the ranking of priority for infrastructure work.
“Circumstances happen, priorities happen,” said Zwiers.
Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy said that residents are unaware of which intersections are the responsibility of a municipality and which belong to the county. Bondy supported the motion stating representatives of each municipalities “are boots on the ground” hearing resident feedback.
In a separate traffic concern, Prue said that a Community Safety Zone is no longer required at the former Western Secondary School which has been closed for two years. Currently the zone is in effect from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Community Safety Zone being considered in River Canard
By Ron Giofu
A community safety zone may be coming to River Canard. Amherstburg town council has asked for a report to look at the possibility of establishing a community safety zone along Concession 3 North near County Road 8 (North Townline). The area sees a built-up section of Concession 3 North, the nearby subdivision in River Canard runs alongside St. Joseph Catholic Elementary School.
Councillor Don McArthur said he has heard from residents in the area who are concerned about speeding in the area. The area nearest to County Road 8 is of specific concern, but there were also speeding issues on Concession 3 North identified as far south as North Side Road.
McArthur said there have been “repeated complaints” on the matter.
“We’ve gone to police, they’ve done their best and the problem persists,” said McArthur.
The traffic calming policy deals with urban roads and not concession roads, requiring a different mechanism to deal with the matter. He said if people are caught speeding in a community safety zone “so if someone is caught, they are punished severely.”
“There’s a lot of kids there, there is a lot of homes there,” he said.
“If you leave it in people will think less of the Community Safety Zones,” he said.
In speaking with one of the residents, McArthur stated that person is at “his wit’s end.”
The intersection at Lowes Side Road and Sandwich St. S. will be studied further by the County of Essex.
Town council is studying the possibility of putting in a Community Safety Zone on Concession 3 North in River Canard.
The Amherstburg Fire Department presented the first of two “Summer Splash” events last Wednesday evening in Pat Thrasher Park. Children enjoyed playing in the sprinkler, trying out a fire hose and ate hot dogs prepared by local firefighters. Grace Garneau goes through the sprinkler (left) while Firefighter Robert Van Horne helps Baani Sibhu with the hose (right). The next “Summer Splash” is Aug. 28 in Jack Purdie Park from 5-7 p.m.
RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU
Littering in the Big Creek area continues to annoy local residents Summer Splash
By Ron Giofu
The issue of garbage near Big Creek continues to be looked at by the town. Councillor Don McArthur followed up on complaints from residents near the Big Creek watershed due to continued issues pertaining to littering in the area. McArthur noted a solution could be to place garbage receptacles in the area, noting a resident he has spoken to has been picking up garbage in addition to taking photographs in the area. McArthur pointed out council has agreed to put garbage receptacles in the area and “the town is doing everything it can” and “we’re not the holdup on this.”
Administration has reached out to its garbage contractor to get pricing on garbage bins. Councillor Peter Courtney said a physical address is typically needed so garbage truck drivers
can find the receptable containers. He suggested parks staff could collect the garbage bags and drop them off at a bin in the parks yard.
Director of parks, facilities and recreation Heidi Baillargeon said she can look into costs, including overtime, for staff to take care of it. Courtney said it would only be a few bags of garbage that would have to be collected.
New fire truck
Town council has authorized administration to issue a Request for Tender (RFT) for the replacement of a 2009 aerial fire truck.
Total funding for the project is $3 million, inclusive of non-recoverable HST, with $500,000 being in the 2024 capital budget, $500,000 to come from the general reserve in each of 2025 and 2026, another $500,000 to come from the fleet reserve in 2027 and $1 million to
come from the general reserve in 2028.
CAO Valerie Critchley was authorized by council to award the tender to the lowest bidder, provided the tender is within the $3 million, to ensure the order is placed by Dec. 2024. Should the price come in lower than $3 million, administration was directed to reduce the project budget to the actual amount and make those funds available for use during the capital budget development.
Ladder trucks are expensive, Courtney noted.
“We have high rises that an aerial will never reach on most floors. That’s the realistic part. They are very costly. We do have to do our due diligence to protect as many as we can,” said Courtney.
Fire chief Bruce Montone said it is a 100-foot platform style fire truck “that will also afford our firefighters a safer place from which to work when working on a roof.”
Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb said it “was very impressive” to not finance through debt and it’s being “paid as we go.”
“I fully support the purchase of this vehicle,” added Councillor Diane Pouget. “We need it. We have a lot of high rises. It will keep our residents safer and provide safety for our firefighters.”
Special events approvals
The latest in a series of special events have been approved by town council. There is a SNAPP Community Engagement event Sept. 6. The Uncommon Festival is approved for Sept. 20-22. There are two events Sept. 28 with those being the Truth and Reconciliation Gathering and the Amherstburg Family Road Rally, the latter being presented by The House Youth Centre. Councillor Molly Allaire said The House’s event will be for all ages.
Kicks & Giggles
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
You are the master of leaping before looking, Aries, and this week is no different. You are not satisfied with hanging back and assessing the situation before acting. You’re right in the mix.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, do not pretend to be a neutral party when two people come up to you seeking advice. You are too loyal to avoid taking sides, but it could affect the relationship with the other person.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, it may be time to step in and help a loved one refocus their energies. Rather than let them dwell on a difficult situation, work to offer them a new perspective.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Use the past as motivation to make some serious changes in your life, Cancer. This is the week to begin plotting a few ideas that can have a large impact.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, there may be some room in the budget for a few splurges this week. As long as you do not go too overboard, you can snag that item that you have had your eyes on for some time.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Don’t be so sure that you’ve examined every detail and checked them multiple times, Virgo. Your plan has to be foolproof for it to work. Run it by another set of eyes.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, if no one is asking for advice right now, it’s best to leave your life coach tendencies on the side. If and when someone needs your help, you can believe they’ll come calling.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, you have big news and you’re ready to tell the world. Hold it in a little longer so that your audience will be chomping at the bit to hear what you have to say.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius, it can be challenging for you to avoid the soap opera that is seemingly unfolding around you right now. Do your best to stay out of the fray for the time being.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, if someone in your social circle is in need of a new perspective, you may have to speak up and help get them on a better path. Take this responsibility seriously.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
You have come a long way in a short time, Aquariuss. Keep up the hard work and you will continue to see results you can be proud of.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, you will have to try to tune out the static all around you this week and concentrate on the things you need to accomplish. There is no wiggle room for distractions right now.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
AUGUST 18 - Madelaine Petsch, Actress (30)
AUGUST 19 - John Stamos, Actor (61)
AUGUST 20 - Demi Lovato, Singer (32)
AUGUST 21 - Usain Bolt, Athlete (38)
AUGUST 22 - Dua Lipa, Singer (29)
AUGUST 23 - Andrew Rannells, Actor (46)
AUGUST 24 - Chad Michael Murray, Actor (43)
New reserve policy adopted by the county County of Essex has over
By Fred Groves
The County of Essex is in good financial shape and to ensure that, it has decided to create a new policy in regard to managing its reserves.
At last week’s regular council session, director of financial services/treasurer
Melissa Ryan presented a proposed reserve management policy which was adopted.
In her report, Ryan said that the purpose of the new policy was to help manage reserves, assist with informed decision making and ensure long-term financial stability.
“It is designed to provide clear and consistent guidelines for managing the county reserves,” said Ryan.
A condensed look at the county indicates there is $115,410,925 in reserves which is divided into various categories including rate stabilization at $18.54 million, $94.7 million in capital reserves and $13.76 million in EMS.
Prior to approving the new policy, any reserve related decisions were made during budget deliberations.
“It (the new policy) was created by reviewing other municipalities’ policies as well as drawing from reputable sources,” said Ryan.
The policy allowed for some reallocation of reserves from one category
$115.4 million in reserves
to the next.
“These targets will be reviewed annually to ensure they remain consistent with industry standards and our strategic plan objectives.”
Ryan pointed out in her report that reserve funds are established for several reasons including to facilitate long-term planning, smooth tax rate impacts and revenue fluctuations and to absorb cost of any one-time expenses not included in the annual budget.
“The county has a long-time history of solid financial practice,” said Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey.
Also at last Wednesday night’s meeting, county council received the financial projected results of operations for the period of January to June.
As it currently appears, by year’s end there will be a surplus of $487,420. This is dependent on several factors including winter control activities remaining within the five-year average, social services caseloads and social housing cost remaining favourable, no significant tax write-offs and continual stable returns on county investments.
It was noted by Ryan that the county’s Sun Parlour Home in Leamington is projected to have a $600,000 surplus by year’s end but general government has a $448,570 deficit due in part to unbudgeted non-union and councillor increases.
Definition: The ringing, whooshing, or buzzing sound your brain creates to let you know there is damage in your auditory system
Facts related to Tinnitus:
•
•
•
•
•
WORD SCRAMBLE
Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to bargains.
Ekblad brings Stanley Cup to Essex County
By Fred Groves
Hundreds of people lined up outside the Atlas Tube Recreation Centre in Lakeshore Saturday morning to welcome home Aaron Ekblad and to get a glimpse of hockey’s Holy Grail, the Stanley Cup.
By 8 a.m. hockey fans were ready to come inside and have pictures taken with the county’s recent National Hockey League champion.
“I want everyone to have a chance to see it. I’ll walk through the line and make sure everyone gets to touch it,” said Ekblad.
An assistant captain and 10-year veteran with Florida, the Panthers beat the Edmonton Oilers to win it all.
As Ekblad smiled, fist bumped and even held a few babies, his proud mother Lisa was not far away and, at times, was emotional.
“It’s been quite a journey. He’s had some injuries and it’s been up-and-down,” she said.
As far as the large crowd who had come to see her son, she added, “I walked outside to see the public and it took my breath away. We might not get everyone in.”
Bringing the Stanley Cup to Lakeshore is a first for Ekblad who is used to firsts. After receiving exception status, he was drafted first overall as an underager by the Barrie Colts of the Ontario Hockey League. That
was followed with another first in 2014, drafted first overall into the NHL by the Florida Panthers.
“It’s been an incredible run. I am feeling as good as I ever have. I am healthy and ready to go hopefully for another ten years.”
Those waiting their turn to see Ekblad and the Cup
sported lots of different hockey garb. Some wore Montreal Canadiens caps and a Tampa Bay Lightning jersey as well as lots and lots of Panthers sweaters.
And not just Ekblad’s #5 but a few Sun County AAA Panthers which is the minor club where he learned a lot of skills that progressed into a championship.
“Growing up a Panther and being a Panther now, it’s really cool. It’s a fun full-circle moment.”
In his ten seasons with Florida, Ekblad, who won the Calder Cup as the NHL Rookie of the Year, his statistics have been impressive to say the least. He has played 676 games, scored 115 goals and 347 points along with 452 penalty minutes.
“The first nine years in the league it felt impossible,” said Ekblad of getting a chance to hoist the Cup “It’s so hard to do and more people have climbed Mt. Everest than have won the Stanley Cup.”
Saturday was a busy one for Ekblad as he wanted to make sure his grandfather got a look at the Stanley Cup and he was going to spend time with his close friends and family. The Stanley Cup wasn’t going far on the weekend as he passed it on to Coach Paul Maurice, a former Windsor Spitfires defenceman.
Ekblad is not the first Essex County player to win a Stanley Cup, there have been others including Amherstburg’s Kevin Westgarth who brought the trophy to town in 2012.
Ribbon cutting held at local restaurant’s new location
By RTT Staff
The new location for Burger 67 is now officially opened.
While the restaurant had actually opened in its new location at the corner of Murray St. and Dalhousie St., just west of its former Murray St. location, the official ribbon cutting was held last Tuesday afternoon.
The restaurant is now in the building that formerly housed the Lord Amherst pub.
Owner Dave Bshouty thanked those in attendance, which included members of Amherstburg town council and administration, “for making this day happen.”
Other supporters and family members also stopped by.
“Our success is your success,” Bshouty told the crowd assembled outside the building. “Everyone has been very supportive of what we’ve done.”
May Bshouty said they quickly found a receptive customer base when they decided to open a restaurant in Amherstburg. The Windsor native said Dave, her nephew, was the one who originally came up with the idea. She said the people of Amherstburg have been very generous to them.
“We feel at home,” she said. “It’s our home now. We are happy to be part of Amherstburg.”
Mayor Michael Prue cut the ribbon and thanked everyone who has made Burger 67 a success to this point. He said the restaurant “was a success up the street” and predicted they will repeat that at their new location.
“You made a very wise business decision,” the mayor said.
Prue added more people are coming to Amherstburg to set up shop and thanked businesses like Burger 67 for having the faith to open up downtown. He called the downtown core “a destination” and that people are coming into the town to enjoy it. Amherstburg is “one of Canada’s great towns,” Prue added.
“Pleasures & Pastimes” held at Park House, Music off the Back Porch returns this Friday night
Continued from Page 1
Students also took pride in touring visitors around the Park House Museum and in the Hazen Price Memorial Gardens.
Herbs used in the cooking came from the garden, she noted.
In all, there are six summer students at the museum with five being federally funded and one funded through the provincial grant.
Three are of high school age while the other three are college and university students.
The Park House Museum has also collaborated with the Waterfront Ice Cream Parlour on a “historic blend.” There are new products available through the collaboration, with one being apple pie ice cream that is
whipped cream, pecans and maple syrup.
The Park House Museum will be hosting the August installment of its “Music off the Back Porch” series this Friday, weather permitting, from 6-8 p.m. The performances will be taking plae behind the building. Entertainment will be The Blue Grass Band as well as Johnny Mac & Friends. There is no admission charge for Music off the Back Porch, but donations are welcome. Bringing a lawn chair is recommended.
The Park House Museum is located at 214 Dalhousie St. in Amherstburg. For more information on the museum, visit www.parkhousemuseum.com, follow their Facebook or Instagram sites or call 519-736-2511.
Sporting their Florida Panthers’ jerseys, brothers Jack and Hayes Koning of South Woodslee got to touch the Stanley Cup and meet Aaron Ekblad of the Panthers.
RTT PHOTO BY FRED GROVES
created with spiced apples, crunchy pie crust and cinnamon ripple. That new flavour can also be used in a “pie-neer
Summer student Ashley King shows an antique loom that is located in a room at the rear of the Park House Museum. The museum presented a “Pleasures & Pastimes” event last Saturday.
RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU
Mayor Michael Prue cut the ribbon at Burger 67.
Community Calendar
FRIDAY, AUGUST 23
MUSIC OFF THE BACK PORCH; Held in the rear of the Park House Museum, 214 Dalhousie St. Entertainers will be the Blue Grass Band and Johnny Mac & Friends. Runs from 6-8 p.m., weather permitting. Free to attend, donations appreciated. Proceeds benefit Park House Museum. Limited seating, bringing your own lawn chair recommended.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 23
CAR WASH/BBQ FUNDRAISER; Held at Rob & Tina’s No Frills, 181 Sandwich St. S., by Encounter Church. Car wash and barbecue to run from 1-7 p.m. in the parking lot. Volunteers will also bag groceries. Donations go to Malden Central Public School’s food program.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 24
YIN & VIN – YOGA ON THE BEACH; Join Yin Yoga instructor Sandra Walker for a relaxing morning on the beach at Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery, then enjoy a glass of Sprucewood Shores wine on the patio! Runs from 10-11 a.m. $20 which includes an hour of yoga and a glass of wine. No appointments necessary. Cash or e-transfer accepted at the beach.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28
RAINBOW BRIDGE MEMORIAL SERVICE; Held at Windsor Chapel Funeral Home – Banwell Chapel (11677 Tecumseh Rd. E., Windsor) at 6:30 p.m. Starts with a therapy dog greeting, courtesy of St. John Ambulance. Free event, light refreshments to follow service. Everyone encouraged to bring photo of their pet who has crossed the rainbow bridge. Space is limited, RSVP by Aug. 23 by calling 519-253-7235.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8
ALS WINDSOR WALK; The 20th anniversary of the ALS Windsor Walk taking place starting at Sandpoint Park (Stop 26) and walking the Ganatchio Trail. Registration from 9-10 a.m. This is a non-competitive 5K walk and open to everyone. BBQ and door prizes to follow. All funds remain in Windsor to help provide services and equipment to those living with ALS in Windsor-Essex County and Chatham-Kent. Information and pledge sheets available at www.alswindsor.ca.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21
CAR JAM; North Star High School concert band presenting car show, barbecue, mini-market, face painting, bake sale and more. Runs from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Encounter Church,
125 Alma St. $10 per car, $40 vendor fee. To register a vehicle, call Ray at 519-712-8763 or e-mail rlaliberte21@ hotmail.ca. Vendors can register by calling Julie at 226347-8035 or e-mail jlalibertern@gmail.com.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22
BRYERSWOOD GOLF TOURNAMENT; Third annual charity golf tournament to benefit Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club occurring at Wildwood Golf, 11112 11th Concession Road, in McGregor. Four-person scramble. $135 per golfer. 9 a.m. shotgun start. To register, e-mail Mary Ann Mertens at fundraising@bryerswood.com or call 519-988-6420.
ONGOING
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; The Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission needs volunteers to clean, wash dishes and provide maintenance. Cleaners are required MondayFriday from 2-4 p.m. to mop floors and to clean bathrooms, countertops, tables, carts, etc. Dishwashers are needed Monday-Friday 1-3 p.m. to wash dishes, pots and pans. Maintenance people are needed Monday-Saturday as needed for maintenance of the building. Commitment is one day or more per week, on a regular basis. If interested or for more info, send e-mail to aburgmission@yahoo.com.
SERVICE TIME CHANGE; Christ Anglican Church, 317 Ramsay St., is changing the times of their Sunday service. There is now one service, starting at 11 a.m. All are welcome.
STROLL & ROLL WALKING GROUP; Interested in meeting new people? Moving more? Weekly walking group to meet rain or shine. Free for everyone in the community, open to all abilities. Runs Tuesdays in Navy Yard Park in Amherstburg from 10-11 a.m., July 2-Sept. 24. In Harrow Thursdays from 10-11 a.m. at Harrow Health Centre (1480 Erie St. S.) from July 11-Sept. 26. Inclement weather alternatives are Libro Centre in Amherstburg and community room in clinic in Harrow. For info, call Amherstburg Family Health Team at 519-736-7770 ext. 235 or Harrow 519-738-2000 ext. 222.
MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). Meals on Wheels assists those who are unable to shop for food and cook meals. Also available to those recovering from illness or surgery. Healthy, delicious and affordable meals provided to residents of Amherstburg, Harrow, McGregor and LaSalle. ACS caters to dietary needs, each meal comes with soup,
bread, main course and dessert. Cost $8 per meal. Call 519-736-5471 for details.
COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS; The Columbus Community Hall at 190 Richmond St. still has bingos every Thursday night and fish fries (with chicken as well) on Friday nights. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the evening. Sr. Parties start back up in September.
AMHERSTBURG RESIDENTS FORUM; Group welcomes residents seeking solutions to town hall to join them the last Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the union hall on Pickering across from Walmart.
MIRACLE LEAGUE NEEDS VOLUNTEERS; The Miracle League of Amherstburg can use volunteers for the fall season. People can help at one game or multiple games (up to four) every Saturday, weather permitting. Great for students needing volunteer hours or adults looking to give back. For info or to sign up, visit www.amherstburgmiracle. com.
ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month in the community room at ACS at 6 p.m. New members welcome. For info, e-mail rotaryclubofamherstburg@gmail. com or call Susanne at 519-990-2775.
GOLDEN AGE CLUB; The Golden Age Club, Amherstburg’s friendship club, located at 179 Victoria St. S., offers social activities five days a week, $10 a year to join. There are over 160 members who have fun playing euchre, pepper, bingo, cribbage, mahjong and bridge and line dancing. Club also crochets mats from milk bags for those in need. We also have three special luncheons and a beautiful Christmas party. You pick which activities you want to participate in. Visit www.goldenagecentre.ca to see how to join, participate, and learn how we support our community.
ESSEX COUNTY ORCHID SOCIETY MEETINGS; The Essex County Orchid Society invites you to join them monthly, third Sunday of the month till May at St. Stephen’s Church Hall, 5280 Howard Ave; 1:30 p.m. Refreshments served. New members and visitors welcome. We are on Facebook!
FREE COMMUNITY MEAL; Lighthouse Church, in conjunction with Feeding Windsor, invites the public to
come Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for a free dinner. All welcome. Come meet others in the community and enjoy some good food. No registration required. Lighthouse Church is located at 266 King St. (entrance off Gore St.).
MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hub presenting mental health and counselling services at The House Youth Centre. Runs every Wednesday from 2-6 p.m. Free for people between the ages of 12-25. The House is located at 320 Richmond St. For details, call 519-800-8640.
MISSION HOURS; The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., open from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with lunch between 12-1 p.m. Mission food bank open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-11:45 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. For info, call 519-736-9140 or visit www. aburgmission.ca. Stop by for food, fellowship and a warm welcome. All donations welcome.
ACS FOOD BANK; Curbside pickup at Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond St.). Runs Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-12 noon. Call 519-736-5471 for assistance.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; Community service volunteer hours are available for high school students. Outside jobs at Bryerswood Youth Camp. Please contact info@ bryerswood.com.
BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA Sportsmen Association accepts donations of empty beer and wine bottles. People who wish to donate their empties can drop them off at the rear of the club, 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For info, visit www.amasportsmen.com or call 519-736-5706.
FOUNDERS CLUB; Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club seeking donors to join the “Founders Club.” Donors help fund general operations of the camp. Donors with gifts of $5,000 and over become “Founders Club” members and have one square of camp property sponsored in their name. Multiple squares available. Tax receipts provided. For info, visit www.bryerswood.com, call 519-996-7364 or e-mail info@bryerswood.com.
AMHERSTBURG COMMUNITY SERVICES; Located at 320 Richmond St., 519-736-5471. Meals on Wheels, CareLink Accessible Transportation, Food Bank, Senior Support, Keep The Heat, Ontario Energy Support Program & much more. Please call to see how we can help!
CLASSIFIEDS
CALL 519-736-4175 OR EMAIL sales@rivertowntimes.com to book your spot!
CRAFT SHOW
WILDWOOD SOCIAL
CLUB Craft Show Baked Goods August 25, 2024
9 a,m - 2 p.m Wildwood Golf & RV Resort 11112 11th Concession Rd. Free parking Free Admission
DOG GROOMING
LISA’S DOG WASH; Baths & Haircuts in a stressfree environment. One on one service. All breeds welcome! First groom 1/2 price! Phone or TXT Lisa 519-965-0781 Open 9am9pm
“ARE YOU SAVED?”
That is the most important question you will face. Jesus Christ is the answer. Mt. Beulah Church, 246 King St., Amherstburg (519)736-4110
PEST CONTROL AND WILD ANIMAL CONTROL DELINE’S SERVING AMHERSTBURG since 1988. Call 519-736-2448.
YARD SALE
Multi-family yard sale, 309 Hawthorn Cr. (at Walnut), Aug. 24-25, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
WANTED TO BUY
Sat Sept 7 **Free Estimates *GOLD + Silver Jewelry+ ALL COINS- Buying 57 years ExperienceSaturday Sept 7 K of C Hall 190 Richmond St Amherstburg 9am-4pmCash Paid for ALL Gold + Silver **OLD COINS; Canada, USA, World War Medals, Windup Watches, Mintsets,Old paper money FREE ESTIMATES NO OBLIGATION **Locally Owned** 57 Years of “SATISFIED CUSTOMERS Always PAYING MORE $$$ than the expensive colored brocheres in your mail$$$ House calls also available for larger amounts Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 519-8181805
RENOVATIONS
& REPAIRS
WITH OVER 30 YEARS of renovation and construction experience, I can ensure your project is completed professionally, correctly, and with pride. Locally owned & operated. www.renovisions.ca Steve 519-300-0961
LANDSCAPING
"Preferred Landscaping" Locally owned company offering lawn care services. Weekly, monthly, or one time cutting, trimming, and yard clean up. Please call Larry for a free quote. 519984-7412.
Danny & Jan Ouellette
August 24th, 1974
Keenan, Brian Edmund
On August 15th, 2024, Brian Keenan passed away peacefully surrounded by beloved friends and family overlooking the beautiful view of their riverside home.
APARTMENTS FOR RENT
CASA BLANCA & BELLA
VISTA APTS. 365-369 Dalhouise. Centrally located in downtown Amherstburg with river views. Large, clean, quiet and secure. Stainless steel appliances, on-site laundry, patio or balcony and parking. Starting at $1395 including utilities. Call 519984-1745 to view.
Please join us for our 50 th Wedding Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, August 24th, 1:00 - 3:30pm A.M.A. Sportsmen’s Club 468 Lowes Side Road, Amherstburg
Brian was the second of seven born to Ed and Clara Keenan in Chatham, Ontario, 76 years ago to the day. From a young age, it was clear that Brian was a dream chaser in both his personal and professional life. An innovative entrepreneur and salesman, he was inarguably “ahead of his time” in all his career ventures from computing and technology, to, most recently, real estate with Royal LePage (Pfeifer and Binder) on Lake Erie shores. The course of his life brought him from Chatham to the big city Toronto, to Barrisadale drive in Mississauga, where he raised his family, and, on to Las Vegas. Finally, in 2007 he came full circle and resettled in close proximity to his birthplace along the shores of Lake Erie on Talbot Trail, and two years ago, to Boblo Island on the Detroit River.
Brian was reputed for his jovial and charismatic personality. He imparts to us all the power of a smile. He was able to make friends anywhere and everywhere he went, but moreover, keep them, as shown by his longstanding friendship with Pat Curry since kindergarten. He was a true gatherer and one of his greatest gifts was the people he brought together.
Brian was always busy with something, and people on Boblo knew him as the “The Cyclone”. This very quality, and his strong will, kept him active doing what he loved as his Parkinson’s progressed. He enjoyed cooking, fishing, golf, billiards, flying, home keeping, and, of course, he continued to waltz with computers and cables until the end.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Joanne, to whom he was married for 18 years. Together they enjoyed fishing trips to Alaska, Seahawks games, cats and the company of their many friends and family. He leaves behind his children and grandchildren: Shaun and his son’s Boden and Calder, and Kelly, her partner Matthew Unger, and their daughter Clara.
Brian is the first of his siblings to meet their parents up above the chimney tops. His warm heartedness and ingenuity will live on in his siblings: Larry and his wife Sandy; Bob and his wife Chris; Brad and his wife Janette; Cathy and her husband Rick; sister Pat and Jane and her husband Dan. He will be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews for his lightness and famed Donald Duck impersonation.
Cremation has taken place and a celebration will take place on Sunday, September 29th, 2024 at the Links Of Kent Golf Club & Event Centre, 120 Indian Creek Rd. W., Chatham, ON from 1:30-4:30pm.
Arrangements entrusted to CremationFirst(Essex) 519-398-9188. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with the family at www. cremationfirst.ca.
Possible new gas bar and convenience store subject of planning meeting
Continued from Page 6
“It’s already a fairly busy corner and to add an entrance from (County Road) 20 crossing that bike lane and crossing that turn lane and to only having an exit out on (County Road) 50 making left-hand concerns is another concerns,” he said. “There will be a significant number, in my opinion, drivers who become impatient.”
At least 60 per cent of the homes in that area have small children that use bike lanes and walking paths to get to school or a playground. He said they don’t want to see someone hurt due to an impatient driver.
“I am not in favour and my wife is not in favour,” he added.
Councillor Don McArthur called Ure’s Country Kitchen “a community institution” and a “beacon” along the roadway. He recalled his 100-mile walks around the region and said the snacks they got
at Ure’s were helpful in finishing it.
McArthur added the mini-golf course gives families something to do.
“That’s not exactly what this planning meeting is about but I think it’s important we say it,” said McArthur. “I can appreciate it’s a difficult circumstance for you guys.”
Relating to planning matters, McArthur wanted to know why the zoning won’t allow gas bars.
“There’s a reason why it’s different than other commercial zones so from a planning perspective, what is that reason?” asked McArthur.
Aspila said under the commercial neighbourhood zoning, gas bars aren’t allowed and a special provision is needed to add one. He added gas bars are permitted in other zones.
“Zoning for all of Amherstburg predates amalgamation and that is something we will look into for the zoning
bylaw update that will be commencing shortly,” said Aspila.
Deputy CAO/director of legislative services Melissa Osborne said information on environmental matters is being collected and will be part of a professional planning recommendation. Any required studies would be part of a requirement, she indicated.
“I’m perplexed. It doesn’t make sense to me,” said Councillor Peter Courtney. “I’m not a business owner but I definitely wouldn’t want to try and mimic something in a remote area and do the exact same business model. It doesn’t make sense. That’s outside of our jurisdiction and I’m sure planning will tell us that.”
Regarding a traffic study, the proponent would have to prepare one that would require approval from the County of Essex, added Aspila.
Courtney wanted more information on environmental issues and Aspila said
conditions are being looked at to see if they are necessary. Osborne said if it is deemed to be recommended for approval, it can come with conditions such as environmental matters, before final adoption.
Councillor Molly Allaire asked about the access points on both county roads, with Aspila stating ultimately, it’s up to the county.
Mayor Michael Prue added while “it’s none of our business” if a gas station is to be opened there, he pointed out the new EV battery plant is being built in Windsor.
“Nobody is talking about EV stations. I don’t know why you want to be in competition with a gas station that is going to sell less and less gas and why you’re not thinking about an EV station and something else in there,” said Prue. “I’m just perplexed but that’s your business.”
Town council received all the comments and directed administration to come back with a report at a later date.
Town council goes against administrative recommendation to deny ZBA
Continued from Page 5
“Since the SDU zone provisions have been put in place, relief from the height provision for accessory structures to accommodate an SDU on the second floor of an accessory structure is a common request seen typically by the committee of adjustment. The current permitted height of 5.5 m was not amended in 2019 so that each request could be assessed on its own merits. However, the 2019 by-law did include provisions to allow SDUs above a garage which in most cases results in requests for relief in height,” the report stated.
McArthur questioned if allowing this would have been precedent setting, with Aspila noting front yard SDUs exist on Erie Ave., Goodview Ave., Mickle Dr. and Goodchild Beach.
“Every one has to be reviewed on its own merits,” said Aspila. He pointed out the province is encouraging SDUs in urban areas.
McArthur said reasonable parameters are not prohibition and believed they would be better in side or rear yards. Crain questioned from an OLT perspective, if council were to agree with this front yard allowance request but deny a future request, could the OLT look at it as “you did it for one now you’re not allowing it for the other.”
Osborne said the OLT looks at every instance individually and considers the whole application.
“It’s exceedingly difficult to say what the OLT would or wouldn’t consider when the only factor that we’re talking about is an ADU in a front yard,” she said.
Mastronardi said provincial legislation stated there
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL TO EXPROPRIATE LAND Form 2
Expropriations Act, R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 363
IN THE MATTER OF AN APPLICATION by The Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg for approval to expropriate the lands in the Town of Amherstburg in the County of Essex as described in Schedule “A” set out herein, being:
1. All Right, Title and Interest (Fee Simple)
registered in the Land Registry Office for the Land Titles Division of Essex (No. 12), for the municipal purpose of facilitating the maintenance to and improvement of the watermain, sanitary sewer and forcemain (the “Infrastructure Project”), and all works ancillary thereto associated with the Infrastructure Project and for the economic, social and environmental well-being of the municipality together with the health, safety and well-being of persons with all services and things that the municipality is authorized to provide in accordance with Section 10(1) and (2) of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. 25, as amended (hereinafter referred to as the “Municipal Act, 2001”).
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that application has been made for approval to expropriate the interests herein described in the lands described herein.
Any owner of lands in respect of which notice is given who desires a hearing into whether the taking of such land is fair, sound and reasonably necessary in the achievement of the objectives of the expropriating authority shall so notify the approving authority in writing,
(a) in the case of a registered owner, served personally or by registered mail within thirty (30) days after the registered owner is served with the notice, or, when the registered owner
shall be nothing in a town’s Official Plan or zoning bylaw that can prohibit an SDU. Osborne stated the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) said SDU’s are permitted as a right in urban areas with “quite a number” of SDU’s going up in the community.
Osborne and Aspila agreed SDU’s can’t be prohibited in the zoning bylaw or Official Plan.
“We have to base this (recommendation) on the existing Provincial Policy Statement that’s enforced today, the existing Planning Act that’s enforced today, the existing Official Plan that is enforced today and the existing zoning bylaw that is enforced today,” said Aspila. “We have to take all of these factors into consideration when we develop our professional planning opinion.”
is served by publication, within thirty (30) days after the first publication of the notice;
(b) in the case of an owner who is not a registered owner, within thirty (30) days after the first publication of the notice.
A copy of the reference plan referred to herein is available for viewing at the Town Hall located at 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2A5 during regular business hours.
The approving authority is:
The Council of The Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg 3295 Meloche Road, Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2Y8
The expropriating authority is:
The Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg 3295 Meloche Road, Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2Y8
DATED at Amherstburg this 12th day of August, 2024.
Originally signed by Michael Prue, Mayor and Kevin Fox, Clerk
This Notice first published on August 21, 2024.
SCHEDULE “A”
Those lands in the Town of Amherstburg in the County of Essex described as follows:
1. Part of PIN 01544-1558 (LT)
Part of Lot 8, Concession 1; Town of Amherstburg designated as Parts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 on Draft Reference Plan No. 23-47-437-01 prepared by Alec S. Mantha, O.L.S of Verhaegen Land Surveyors
2. Part of PIN 01544-1577 (LT)
Part of Lot 8, Concession 1 and Part of Indian Stone Quarry Reserve; Town of Amherstburg designated as Parts 7 and 8 on Draft Reference Plan No. 23-47-437-01 prepared by Alec S. Mantha, O.L.S of Verhaegen Land Surveyors
MUNICIPAL HARD SURFACES
The Town of Amherstburg has contracted Laing’s Lawn Care & Pest Control for the spraying of weeds on sidewalks, boulevards, curbs and fences within the Town limits.
Please be advised that the following pesticide registered under the Pest Control Products Act (Canada) will be used for control of vegetation in these areas:
• Munger Horticultural Vinegar Plus (Acetic Acid) (Registration #29405) containing the active ingredient Acetic Acid.
Commencing on May 15, 2024 weather permitting and ending September 30, 2024
For more information, please call
Laing’s Lawn Care & Pest Control (519) 818-5755
Eric Chamberlain, Manager of Public Works at 519-736-3664
Collect calls accepted from individuals calling long distance.
Notice of Application of Larvicide for Mosquito Control
Beginning on April 15th and continuing through to August 31st, 2024 Pestalto Environmental Health Services Inc. will apply a biological larvicide in the Amherstburg area. This application is for the control of larva mosquitoes only and will be conducted over specific mosquito breeding sites within the boundaries of:
Kingsbridge Subdivision to McCurdy Drive and from the Detroit River to Meloche Rd / Concession 3 N
A detailed map that indicates the specific boundaries of application and affected properties for this program is available at the Town of Amherstburg Public Works office at 512 Sandwich Street South and on the Town’s Website at www.amherstburg.ca
The larvicide VectoBac 1200L (PCP#21062, liquid) and VectoBac 200G (PCP# 18158 granular) may be applied to standing water if mosquito larvae are detected. This product contains the active ingredient B.t.i which is a naturally occurring bacterium found in soils and is very specific to mosquito larva This bacterium is not harmful to bees.
If your property falls within the treatment area you may be contacted by direct mail. If you have any questions, concerns you may contact Pestalto at 1-866-648-7773 or by e-mail.
TECHNICAL AND PROGRAM INFORMATION
Pestalto Environmental Health Services Inc. 501 Rennie St., Hamilton, ON, L8H 3P6
Tel: 1-(866) 648-7773 Morgan Tyler at morgan.tyler@pestalto.com
Town Contact: Eric Chamberlain at (519)-736-3664 x2312 or echamberlain@amherstburg,ca