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Stephen J. Donkers

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Originally from Oshawa and raised in Barrie and Innisfil, Stephen J. Donkers began his career in Ontario’s film and television industry as an assistant director before pivoting to journalism and corporate communications through studies at Humber Polytechnic. With experience in digital marketing and communications, he brings a sharp storytelling lens to every role. Stephen currently works in marketing while reporting for Compass News in Barrie, covering impactful community stories in the city he proudly calls home. He lives in Barrie with his family and two pets.

Exclusive articles:

Barrie receives $129.2M in funding after cutting residential development charges

Barrie Stephen J. Donkers Stephen J. Donkers -
Barrie is set to receive up to $129.2 million from the federal and provincial governments after agreeing to cut residential development charges in half...

Barrie cuts residential development charges by 50 per cent

Barrie Stephen J. Donkers Stephen J. Donkers -
Barrie city council has approved a 50 per cent reduction in residential development charges. The move is intended to encourage new housing construction and improve...

Barrie takes steps to recover multimillion dollar loan from Redwood Park Communities

Barrie Stephen J. Donkers Stephen J. Donkers -
Barrie city council is taking steps to recover a $3-million loan from Redwood Park Communities, a non-profit organization involved in supportive housing. On Sept. 16,...

Ward 8 candidates focus on growth, safety and a changing city

Barrie Stephen J. Donkers Stephen J. Donkers -
Three candidates vying to represent Ward 8 in the 2026 municipal election are campaigning on a mix of familiar neighbourhood concerns. Incumbent Jim Harris is...

Nuttall makes $3M traffic-calming promise ahead of election

Barrie Stephen J. Donkers Stephen J. Donkers -
Mayoral candidate Alex Nuttall is promising to invest $3 million in traffic-calming measures across Barrie over the next council term if re-elected. Nuttall, the city’s...
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Breaking

Special interest groups shouldn’t get to choose our city councillors

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Special interest groups are trying to influence voters as...

Ottawa Police Blotter – October 21

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Good Morning Ottawa, The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has...

“A time for serious leadership” – Sutcliffe speaks about election platform

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Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe unveiled a 70-page document laying...

Barrie retains AAA credit rating for second straight year

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Barrie’s finances get top marks again. S&P Global Ratings has...

About us

Compass News, a dynamic division of the iPolitics family, is dedicated to transforming local journalism by delivering sharp, focused reporting that resonates with the pulse of your community. We pride ourselves on offering concise, no-nonsense coverage of local politics, business developments, and community sports, all tailored to the unique needs of each region we serve. Our mission is simple: to provide residents with the news that matters most, helping them stay informed and engaged with the issues shaping their cities. From insightful council meeting recaps to stories about community growth and local champions, Compass News is here to ensure you never miss a beat.

With a commitment to transparency and accuracy, we bridge the gap between communities, businesses, and local government, empowering you to navigate and thrive in the place you call home. Welcome to the future of local journalism.

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Marco Vigliotti, Editor in Chief [email protected]
Stephen Donkers, Reporter, Barrie Compass [email protected]

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