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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:

Receivership casts doubt on Barrie fairgrounds redevelopment

Barrie Stephen J. Donkers Stephen J. Donkers -
The proposed redevelopment plans of the old fairgrounds in central Barrie is now in doubt as the property has placed into receivership. Court documents reveal...

Mayors Nuttall and Coughlin press ahead with land-for-services talks after tense Springwater council meeting

Barrie Stephen J. Donkers Stephen J. Donkers -
Despite sharp criticism from several Springwater council members, Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall  and Springwater Mayor Jennifer Coughlin remain firmly committed to working on a...

Majority of Berczy Park homeless find permanent housing

Barrie Stephen J. Donkers Stephen J. Donkers -
County of Simcoe officials report that nine of the 12 individuals experiencing homelessness in Barrie’s 2.2-acre Berczy Park have secured permanent housing. In mid-2024, Berczy...

Tensions rise as Mayor Nuttall defends annexation plans before Springwater council

Barrie Stephen J. Donkers Stephen J. Donkers -
Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall, along with Deputy Mayor Robert Thomson, defended the city's current draft land-for-services annexation plan at a fiery Township of Springwater...

Mayor Nutall seeks public input for new conservation trust

Barrie Stephen J. Donkers Stephen J. Donkers -
Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall is inviting residents to weigh in on which natural spaces across the city should be added to a new municipal...
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Breaking

Nuttall campaigns on making resident-only parking at Centennial Beach

Barrie 0
Alex Nuttall is promising to make the Centennial Park...

Ottawa Police Blotter – October 7

Municipal News 0
Good Morning Ottawa, The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has...

This Week in Barrie: Week of October 5

Barrie 0
  The 2026 Municipal Election is coming. Be ready to...

Candidates vie for newly redrawn Ward 3 council seat in Barrie

Barrie 0
Traffic safety, infrastructure, responsible growth and basic city services...

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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