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Residents encouraged to provide input into Community and Recreation Facilities Strategy

Haldimand County Council is encouraging all residents and users of County facilities to have their say in helping identify recreation facility needs now and in the future.

An online survey—focusing on new or repurposed facilities to support activities such as aquatics, sports, health, wellness, arts and culture—is available at HaldimandCounty.ca/RecStrategy/ until March 7.

“We are eager to hear from everyone about the kinds of recreation and community facilities they want the County to build or create in the coming years, and the input from this consultation process will guide that,” says Mayor Ken Hewitt. “If we have learned anything through this pandemic, it is that access to recreation and leisure is critical to supporting physical, mental, emotional and social well-being.

“We also want to encourage our younger residents, who we hope continue to make Haldimand County their home as they begin to work and raise their own families, to use this opportunity to tell us what kinds of recreation makes them happy.”

You can find out more about the Community & Recreation Facilities Strategy process—including the online survey and updates about in-person consultation opportunities—on the project web page.

Haldimand County accepting applications from local groups to raise flag on new community flag pole

Last fall, Haldimand County Council approved a new process for the flying of community flags in support of local charitable and non-profit groups. A fourth flagpole was installed at the administration building in Cayuga last month and groups may now formally submit a flag-raising request.

The new community flagpole is located adjacent to the administration building’s three existing flagpoles. All requested flags will be flown alongside federal, provincial and municipal flags.

Charitable and non-profit groups are encouraged to submit a request at least four weeks in advance of the date requested, along with a brief description of the nature of the flag raising.

Requests from groups will be confirmed on a first come, first served basis and reviewed to ensure that they meet all criteria outlined in the policy (e.g. they are not of political, commercial or religious nature, do not promote hatred, violence, racism or discrimination, etc.)

Flags will be flown for one week, with the possibility of a longer timeframe where other requests have not been submitted. A description of the current community flag being flown will be posted on the Haldimand County website at HaldimandCounty.ca/community-flags/.

All interested groups are encouraged to review the eligibility requirements and submit requests through the online at application form at HaldimandCounty.ca/community-flags/.

Below: The Pride flag flies in front of the Haldimand County Administration Building in June 2021. A fourth flag pole has been installed specifically for community flags.

The Pride flag flies on a pole in front of the Haldimand County Administration Building in June 2021

Haldimand County seeking public input on Community and Recreation Facilities Strategy

Haldimand County is launching a comprehensive Community & Recreation Facilities Strategy to identify major facility needs and establish a 20-year implementation plan.

The Strategy will focus on facilities that support activities such as aquatics, sports, health, wellness, arts and culture.

The process will be strongly informed by public and stakeholder input and will examine needs, financial feasibility, partnerships and potential locations. While the analysis will exclude facilities that are already in sufficient supply (e.g. indoor ice rinks, community halls, neighbourhood parks), it will consider strategies to enhance and re-purpose existing buildings or construct new facilities to address growth and emerging needs.

An online survey to gather preliminary input is available until March 7 at HaldimandCounty.ca/RecStrategy/.

“We are very excited about this project, which has been a priority for this term of Council,” says Mayor Ken Hewitt. “Unfortunately, it has been delayed due to the pandemic and the associated limitations to public consultation, which is a critical part of this process.

“At this point, we know many people have become used to engaging online or via Zoom, and we feel we will be able to host in-person engagement opportunities. We don’t want to wait any longer to hear what residents want in the way of facilities to support recreation and wellness. We also think the pandemic may have adjusted people’s thinking about the importance of recreation to quality of life and the many different ways we can remain active, social and engaged.”

You can find out more about the consultation process—including the online survey and updates about in-person consultation opportunities—on the County’s website.

Hagersville Chamber of Commerce sells Community Centre, Chamber presents Haldimand County with $700,000 contribution towards the new Hagersville Library + Active Living Centre

The fund-raising committee for the Hagersville Library + Active Living Centre took a big leap towards reaching its goal with the recent $700,000 contribution from the Hagersville Chamber of Commerce following its sale of the Hagersville Community Centre.

“We are so pleased to be able to make this contribution towards the Hagersville Library + Active Living Centre project,” says Chamber President Rob Phillips. “The new building will be a beautiful, fully accessible and functional community space that will enhance the quality of life of our residents of all ages and abilities.”

“The Community Centre has served as a gathering place for our community for more than one hundred years, and it has served many service clubs and user groups well, but the times have changed and we need a building now that is more accessible and is able to accommodate many different types of programming, events and activities,” adds Phillips.

The Hagersville Library + Active Living Centre will be located in Grant Kett Park, adjacent to the town’s Arena, ball diamonds and outdoor amphitheatre.

Plans for the new, multi-purpose facility were introduced in early 2021 during capital budget deliberations and approved by Council for construction in 2024. As part of the project and preliminary public engagement, the community will have to raise approximately $2 million towards the co-located facility.

“Haldimand County is incredibly grateful to the Chamber of Commerce for its stewardship and financial management of the Community Centre for the past twenty years,” adds Ward 4 Councillor and Chair of the community fund-raising committee, Tony Dalimonte. “This has been a tremendous amount of work and responsibility for the Chamber, in particular volunteers John & Janice Luttjehuizen and Charlie & BJ Garvie, who managed the operations, maintenance and booking of the facility throughout that time.”

For background information, details and updates about the Hagersville Library + Active Living Centre project, please visit www.haldimandcounty.ca/hagersvilleALC/.

Pictured from left to right: Paul Diette (CEO, Haldimand County Public Library), Doug Miller (Community Fund-Raising Committee Member), Tony Dalimonte (Ward 4 Councillor and Chair of Community Fund-Raising Committee), Rob Phillips (President of Hagersville Chamber of Commerce), Ed McCarthy (Director of Hagersville Chamber of Commerce)

Notice regarding planned “Tractor Convoy” in Haldimand County

It has come to the County’s attention that a “Tractor Convoy” from Dunnville to Delhi has been planned for Saturday, February 5, 2022, portions of which are intended to take place on Haldimand County property including at arenas and parks.

Please be advised that, due to the nature of the event and the potential it has to cause negative experiences, disruptions and safety concerns for other users of our facilities, Haldimand County does not support the activity, and participating in it may result in police involvement and potential charges under the County’s by-laws.

The inclusion of Haldimand County’s logo in the promotion of the event should in no way give the impression it is supported by the County, as use of the logo without permission is also in contravention of the County’s policies.

Haldimand County logo. A yellow sun rising or setting atop green and blue waves. Haldimand County in black lettering below.

911 Basics

Haldimand County Paramedic Services comprises dedicated professionals who work hard to guarantee emergency care for those in need.  We ask all residents to assist us by reviewing when it is appropriate to call 911.

What is 911

911 is a central dispatch for emergency services.  This service allows for all emergency services to be deployed to assure those first responders can deliver emergency services quickly and efficiently.

When to call 911

Knowing when to call 911 can be a difficult decision.  Assessing your situation will make sure that emergency services are available when needed.  Do not hesitate to contact them for immediate help if you are experiencing:

  • Medical emergencies, like chest pain or difficulty breathing,
  • A direct threat to life,
  • An uncontrolled or an uncontained fire.

What happens when you call 911

A 911 dispatcher will answer and ask if you need police, fire or ambulance.  Before calling, be sure to assess your situation to give the dispatcher a complete picture of the circumstances you are experiencing.  That way, they can arrange for the appropriate assistance.

With many people relying on mobile devices, you may need to provide exact location details.  Cell phones do not give the dispatcher’s precise address, and they will only see your general location.  Be prepared to give an address or an intersection.  Other critical information that may be necessary are:

  • Apartment number and entry code,
  • Landmarks,
  • Any obstacles that may prevent entry,
  • Language barriers that could require accommodation.

Be sure to stay on the line to let the 911 dispatcher will let you know when to hang up.

Questions to ask yourself:

Is a person hurt or in danger?

  • Do not hesitate to call 911 if there is difficulty breathing, uncontrolled bleeding, or chest pain.

Is there an emergency where a law enforcement officer, firefighter or medical help is needed?

  • If you are witnessing an assault, or think a driver is impaired, do not intervene and call 911 immediately.

Are there alternative numbers to call to help you assess your situation?

  • There are services available to assist you in determining your required level of care. Telehealth, which offers free medical advice over the phone, or 211 Ontario, a Community and Social Services helpline, can guide you.

Are you still unsure? 

  • Go ahead and call 911.  The call taker will then determine if emergency assistance is needed.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS TO CALL

Telehealth Ontario:

Toll-free: 1-866-797-0000

Toll-free TTY:1-866-797-0007

211 Ontario:

www.211ontario.ca

Call: 2-1-1

Toll-free: 1-877-330-3213

TTY: 1-844-483-9835

Call 1-(888)-310-1122

File a report online on the O.P.P. website

A Decision Tree Chart for calling 911

 

Haldimand County, agricultural community celebrate installation of first Farm 911 sign

Earlier this month, Haldimand County and the local agriculture community celebrated the installation of the first Farm 911 sign.

Individuals associated with the farm 911 Emily Project stand beside a newly installed yellow Farm 911 sign. From left to right:rogram sponsors Darcy Johnson (Erie Mutual), Richard Blyleven (Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario local chapter), and Councillor John Metcalfe (Council representative for Haldimand County’s Agriculture Advisory Committee). Henk Lise is also the Chair of Haldimand County’s Agriculture Advisory Committee and President of the Haldimand Federation of Agriculture.

Property owners Henk and Jackie Lise celebrated this initiative alongside program sponsors Darcy Johnson (Erie Mutual), Richard Blyleven (Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario local chapter), and Councillor John Metcalfe (Council representative for Haldimand County’s Agriculture Advisory Committee). Henk Lise is also the Chair of Haldimand County’s Agriculture Advisory Committee and President of the Haldimand Federation of Agriculture.

The Farm 911 Emily Project offers owners of rural, agricultural land the opportunity to purchase 911 signage for their farm entrances to help first responders locate individuals/incidents in an emergency.

Through this program, properties will be identified by yellow and black signs to distinguish between vacant properties and properties with dwellings. This is so first responders are aware the incident they are called to may not be tied to a home or farm building. This project will operate on a voluntary basis for existing vacant farm entrances.

“This program is such an important initiative as it helps promote on farm safety. By installing these signs property owners will improve Haldimand County’s Emergency Services ability to locate on farm accidents, with the objective of preventing tragedies in the farming community,” remarked Henk Lise, Chair of Haldimand County’s Agriculture Advisory Committee.

It is anticipated that sponsorships received from Erie Mutual Insurance, the local Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario and Haldimand Federation of Agriculture will cover the costs of 35 signs (first come, first serve) for 2021 and potentially 55 signs for 2022.

If funding is fully subscribed to, successful applicants will be required to pay a fee of $109.61 (2021 fee) which is to be submitted along with their application). The application will be reviewed by staff and if no concerns are identified, a new civic address will be issued.

Individuals who wish to participate are encouraged to submit an application form available online at HaldimandCounty.ca/The-Farm-911-Emily-Project or contact Planning@HaldimandCounty.on.ca for additional information.

2021 Uniquely Haldimand Photo Contest winners announced

Haldimand County has announced its 2021 Uniquely Haldimand Photo Contest winners.

A panel of judges comprised of County staff, community figures and a local photographer/filmmaker closely examined more than 180 submissions and determined the following winners:

First Place:
Caledonia Sunset by Taryn Roberts

Second Place:
A Pot of Gold by Kim Spurr
Third Place:
Winter Road by Jesse Curley		Honourable Mention:
Heron on the Grand by Amy Brown

In addition to contest prizes (gift cards for local businesses), winning photographs will be displayed at the Cayuga Library + Heritage Centre in late January.

Special thanks are owed to contest judges Graeme Bachiu (Windecker Road Films), Kaitlyn
Clark (The Haldimand Press), Yvonne Van De Wiele (92.9 The Grand FM), Karen Richardson (Haldimand Museums), and the Haldimand County Communications team for their participation and thorough, thoughtful examination of all entries.

Details about next year’s Uniquely Haldimand photo contest will be announced in fall 2022. More information on the Uniquely Haldimand Photo Contest and a gallery of past winners is available at HaldimandCounty.ca/photocontest.

New program for Haldimand & Norfolk aims to “Spark” innovative tourism ideas with grants and mentorships

A new program aimed at sparking and supporting innovative tourism ideas for Haldimand & Norfolk was officially announced today. The “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program will match selected applicants from the region with a mentor and provide a $3,000 seed grant to help take their new tourism idea to the next level.

View the official announcement video here: https://youtu.be/WNSXZT1CMlE    

The “Spark” Program was first piloted in Windsor-Essex in 2018 by the Tourism Innovation Lab, and has now been delivered in over 16 regions across the province and British Columbia. Its goal is to find, foster and support new tourism ideas that will enhance current offerings, address gaps or challenges, motivate travel and longer stays, and increase year-round visits.

While there are no specific categories, program organizers are especially interested in new tourism ideas that connect with agritourism, cycling, waterfront, and the winter season.

Applications are encouraged from individuals, small businesses and non-profit organizations based in Haldimand & Norfolk from November 23rd to January 14th, 2022. Following a juried review process, five finalists from Haldimand County and five finalists from Norfolk County will be invited to virtual Pitch Sessions where three winners will be selected from each.

The Haldimand & Norfolk “Spark” Program is being led by the Tourism Innovation Lab in collaboration and with support from Southwest Ontario Tourism Corporation, Haldimand County, Norfolk County, Libro Credit Union, Grand Erie Business Centre and Venture Norfolk.

For more information on the Haldimand & Norfolk “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program visit www.tourisminnovation.ca/HaldimandNorfolk.

QUOTES

Southwest Ontario Tourism Corporation
“Southwest Ontario Tourism Corporation is excited to be partnering on the expansion of “Spark” Program into Haldimand and Norfolk counties. We’ve seen some amazing ideas translate into new tourism experiences for travellers across Ontario’s Southwest, and we’re eager to see what new ideas emerge from Haldimand and Norfolk!” said Joanne Wolnik, Executive Director of the Southwest Ontario Tourism Corporation.

Haldimand County
“Our goal is to inspire Haldimand & Norfolk County residents and entrepreneurs to come forward with creative ideas that will generate new innovative tourism opportunities, experiences and partnerships in our communities.  We are excited to be working together along with our project partners to capture these great ideas, and define the actions needed to put these ideas to work.  Now more than ever, the tourism industry needs innovation and the “Spark” Program is a great opportunity to launch these tourism offerings and assist entrepreneurs in getting them to the next level” said Lidy Romanuk, Manager, Economic Development & Tourism, Haldimand County.

Norfolk County
“Norfolk County is thrilled to be partnering with Haldimand County on this exciting Spark program, which will provide an opportunity for our many creative entrepreneurs to bring innovative tourism product ideas to market.  With the importance of tourism and entrepreneurship to our economy, we are delighted to be part of a project that both supports the creation and growth of small businesses, while simultaneously adding exciting new product offerings for our residents and visitors to enjoy when experiencing all that Norfolk County has to offer.  We are grateful to the Tourism Innovation Lab and wonderful sponsors (SWOTC, Libro Credit Union, Venture Norfolk, Grand Erie Business Centre) for helping to make this project a reality” said Zvi Lifshiz, Director, Strategic Innovation and Economic Development, Norfolk County.

Libro Credit Union
“At Libro Credit Union, we know that working together always makes people stronger, so we find partnerships like this so rewarding. The Spark program and everyone involved in it is a great example of partnership with people who share our values. At Libro, our financial coaches work with Owners – we call our customers Owners because they own part of the company – to set goals and work towards them, and there’s nothing we like more than an exciting idea like this!” said Scott Macleod, Regional Manager Haldimand & Norfolk, Libro Credit Union.

Grand Erie Business Centre
“The “Spark” Program has a history of success in helping to develop and foster new tourism businesses and entrepreneurs. We are happy to support this program and partner with everyone involved to encourage new tourism experiences to be developed and offered in our communities.” said Tauri Caputo, General Manager, Grand Erie Business Centre.

Tourism Innovation Lab
“We are very excited to be launching the “Spark” Program in Haldimand & Norfolk,” said Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead, Tourism Innovation Lab. “As we have seen through previous rounds in southwest Ontario, innovative tourism ideas brought forward by entrepreneurs, small businesses and organizations will inspire and elevate the tourism offerings and experiences in the region.”

Hagersville Library + Active Living Centre Project Benefits From Generosity Of Local Residents Laird And Mary Jane McKeen

On Monday, November 15, the Hagersville Library + Active Living Centre project benefitted from the generosity of local residents Laird and Mary Jane McKeen, who presented Haldimand County Council and staff with a $100,000 donation towards construction of the new facility.

“We are incredibly grateful to the McKeens for their generous contribution and investment in the vibrancy and quality of life of our communities,” says Haldimand County Ward 4 Councillor Tony Dalimonte. “The County is excited at the prospect of replacing two outdated municipal facilities with more accessible, functional and engaging spaces that enhance quality of life for all ages and interests.”

“The Hagersville Library and the Hagersville Community Centre have served residents throughout this region—including from Haldimand and Norfolk Counties, Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and Six Nations, which has a Library Services Reciprocal Borrowing Partnership with Haldimand—for decades,” Dalimonte continued. “We now have an opportunity to create innovative, efficient, community-designed spaces in beautiful Grant Kett Park, which is already home to our Arena, ball diamonds and outdoor amphitheatre.”

Plans for the new, multi-purpose facility were introduced in early 2021 during capital budget deliberations, and approved by Council for construction in 2024. As outlined in the project’s funding conditions, the community will have to raise approximately $1 million towards the co-located new facility.

A preliminary community open house about the Hagersville Library + Active Living Centre took place in late October. Further opportunities to share ideas and provide feedback will be announced shortly.

For background information, details and updates, visit www.haldimandcounty.ca/hagersvilleALC/.

Community members Laird and Mary Jane McKeen present Haldimand Council members and staff with a $100,000 ceremonnial cheque. Stewart Patterson, Haldimand County Ward 1 Councillor Tony Dalimonte, Haldimand County Ward 4 Councillor Laird McKeen Mary Jane McKeen Doug Miller, Fundraising Committee Member Paul Diette, CEO, Haldimand County Public Library.

Pictured Above (L to R):

Stewart Patterson, Haldimand County Ward 1 Councillor
Tony Dalimonte, Haldimand County Ward 4 Councillor
Laird McKeen
Mary Jane McKeen
Doug Miller, Fundraising Committee Member
Paul Diette, CEO, Haldimand County Public Library