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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:

Province hands back decision-making on old fairgrounds development to the city

Barrie Stephen J. Donkers Stephen J. Donkers -
The provincial government says the City of Barrie should make the decision on the future of the old fairgrounds site.  Housing Minister Paul Calandra told...

Ontario government announces investment in essential infrastructure for Barrie

Barrie Stephen J. Donkers Stephen J. Donkers -
The Ontario government is investing $18.5 million in infrastructure to ensure new homes  in Barrie are connected to reliable roads.  The funding comes from the...

Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment Hub coming to Barrie

Barrie Stephen J. Donkers Stephen J. Donkers -
The Ontario government is funding a new Homelessness Addiction Recovery Treatment  (HART) Hub in Barrie. This is part of a $529 million plan to...

New library branch being considered for Letitia Heights area

Barrie Stephen J. Donkers Stephen J. Donkers -
The Barrie Public Library is considering the northwest community of Letitia Heights as a potential location for a new library branch. Lauren Jessop, CEO of...

Local realtors cautiously optimistic about Barrie’s 2025 real estate market

Barrie Stephen J. Donkers Stephen J. Donkers -
Approaching the Barrie real estate market with cautious optimism is the best strategy this year, according to local realtor Wes Ayranto. Ayranto, an experienced realtor...
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Breaking

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

Barrie 0
Mayoral candidate Alex Nuttall is promising to invest $3...

Sutcliffe would squeeze another $250 million in savings as part of affordability measures

Municipal News 0
Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe says he could squeeze another...

Transit and affordability take centre stage as mayoral candidates engage in debate on student issues

Election 0
Candidates in Ottawa’s upcoming mayoral race gathered at Carleton...

This Week in Barrie: Week of September 14

Barrie 0
  Get election ready: Verify or update your voter information Eligible...

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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