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		<title>Special interest groups shouldn&#8217;t get to choose our city councillors</title>
		<link>https://compassnews.ca/special-interest-groups-shouldnt-get-to-choose-our-city-councillors/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Tim Tierney]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 25 Oct 2026 17:00:31 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Election]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Municipal News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Opinions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ottawa]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://compassnews.ca/?p=5682</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Special interest groups are trying to influence voters as third-party advertisers (TPAs) in municipal elections. Not only is that a bad idea, it is a destructive one. Municipal politics across Canada are party-free systems. Councillors and candidates do not identify as Liberal, Conservative, or NDP. That is because our duties include building roads, managing transit, [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/special-interest-groups-shouldnt-get-to-choose-our-city-councillors/">Special interest groups shouldn&#8217;t get to choose our city councillors</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Special interest groups are trying to influence voters as third-party advertisers (TPAs) in municipal elections. Not only is that a bad idea, it is a destructive one.</p>
<p>Municipal politics across Canada are party-free systems. Councillors and candidates do not identify as Liberal, Conservative, or NDP. That is because our duties include building roads, managing transit, and handling sewage — practical responsibilities that do not lend themselves to partisan ideologies.</p>
<p>Following changes to Ontario’s Municipal Elections Act, TPAs were first allowed to operate during Ottawa’s 2018 election. The intent was to let independent corporations, unions and individuals fund advertising campaigns to support or oppose candidates, rather than giving money directly to campaigns. Rules were established so groups with deep pockets could not drown out ordinary candidates and average citizens.</p>
<p>Over time, however, the TPA system has been weaponized to create slates that do not represent our cities. Instead of serving their original purpose, they have become Trojan Horses where self-serving groups masquerade as well-meaning advocates, manufacturing a partisan party system where none should exist.</p>
<p>As TPAs expanded across Canada, various businesses, separatist groups, and special interest organizations registered — like Progressive Toronto or, locally, Horizon Ottawa. According to Horizon Ottawa’s website, they’re an advocacy group pushing its vision of a “city that works for everyone.”</p>
<p>Just like the last election, Horizon Ottawa is working hard to target councillors they deem disappointments based on agenda-bending criteria. Their process is simple: release American-style attack ads online and mobilize members to pepper targeted wards with flyers spreading misinformation.</p>
<p>Remarkably, none of their board members live in the wards they target, yet several have posted photos of themselves canvassing there. City races are non-partisan, so why is NDP leader Avi Lewis’ press secretary, who sits on Horizon Ottawa’s board, going door-to-door interfering in local races?</p>
<p>Furthermore, it is a case of the pot calling the kettle black. Horizon Ottawa rails against councillors accepting corporate or developer campaign dollars, yet candidates are already legally barred from accepting those cheques personally.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, TPAs are permitted to accept them, creating an easy loophole for unions and corporations wanting to manipulate local government. Whether Horizon Ottawa accepts these kinds of cheques remains unknown until March 30, 2027, when their financial statements must be made public.</p>
<p>And unlike candidates that have to follow rules very closely and protect private information that they collect, TPAs don’t have those same restrictions.</p>
<p>Neither of that sounds very comforting.</p>
<p>As a local special-interest TPA, Horizon Ottawa endorses candidates based on a narrow vision. Their tactics encourage continual protest and dysfunction over actual work. They stand for anti-community safety policing, involve themselves in geopolitical issues, and regularly attempt to dictate which flags should fly at City Hall.</p>
<p>But do they really represent Ottawa residents?</p>
<p>Many other single issue groups are far more deserving of attention, but they don’t have the ability to set up their own TPA leading to perversion of democracy, and other jurisdictions agree.</p>
<p>Quebec law generally prohibits third-party advertising during elections. British Columbia has tightened restrictions on their spending and registration, and Ontario has introduced administrative reforms.</p>
<p>It’s no mystery why we’re seeing a surge in municipal acclamations. Good people are choosing to step away rather than subject themselves and their families to the relentless personal abuse and disparaging attacks that have come to define modern campaigns.</p>
<p>This isn’t just a toxic workplace issue; it’s a rapid degeneration of our local democracy.</p>
<p>Ironically, the province of Ontario created this situation. Queen’s Park introduced TPAs, realized the system was broken and rightly eliminated them at the provincial level. Yet, they left municipal governments to fend for themselves against these exact same groups.</p>
<p>This double standard makes no sense. These TPAs have become their own worst enemies, serving as a toxic obstacle to civic leadership and driving quality candidates away.</p>
<p>That is why on Oct. 27, the day after the election and if successful, I am asking the Ford government to eliminate this loophole and ban TPAs from municipal elections once and for all.</p>
<p>Queen’s Park must step up, fix the rules and investigate a system that has become a horrific experience for far too many.</p>
<p>If it wasn’t good enough for provincial politics, it isn&#8217;t good enough for our communities.</p>
<p><em>Tim Tierney is an Ottawa city councillor seeking re-election and president of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. </em></p>
<hr />
<p><i>The views, opinions and positions expressed by all iPolitics columnists and contributors are the author’s alone. They do not inherently or expressly reflect the views, opinions and/or positions of iPolitics.</i></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/special-interest-groups-shouldnt-get-to-choose-our-city-councillors/">Special interest groups shouldn&#8217;t get to choose our city councillors</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
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		<title>Oro-Medonte mayoral candidate’s son critically injured in Alberta base fire</title>
		<link>https://compassnews.ca/oro-medonte-mayoral-candidates-son-critically-injured-in-alberta-base-fire/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Stephen J. Donkers]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 25 Oct 2026 01:19:48 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Barrie]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Municipal News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cathy Keane]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[election]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wainwright]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://compassnews.ca/?p=5684</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Oro-Medonte mayoral candidate Cathy Keane has stated that her eldest son was critically injured in a fire at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in Alberta on Saturday, Oct. 17. The incident killed four Canadian Armed Forces members and injured dozens of others. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire is underway. In a social media [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/oro-medonte-mayoral-candidates-son-critically-injured-in-alberta-base-fire/">Oro-Medonte mayoral candidate’s son critically injured in Alberta base fire</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Oro-Medonte mayoral candidate Cathy Keane has stated that her eldest son was critically injured in a fire at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in Alberta on Saturday, Oct. 17.</p>
<p>The incident killed four Canadian Armed Forces members and injured dozens of others. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire is underway.</p>
<p>In a social media statement, Keane said she would travel to support her son and family during this difficult time. She also announced she would suspend door-to-door campaigning for the remainder of the municipal election campaign.</p>
<p>“As a mother, right now I need to be with my son and family,” she said.</p>
<p>“I will be travelling to Alberta and unable to continue door knocking for the remainder of the mayoral campaign. Please share the pinned post with my information with your neighbours, friends and your community.”</p>
<p>Keane confirmed she remains in the race for mayor ahead of the Oct. 26 municipal election.</p>
<p>“I want residents to know that I am still in the race for Mayor of Oro-Medonte, and I stand by my commitment to our friends, families and neighbours more than ever,” she said.</p>
<p>“My belief in this community and the future we can build together has not changed.”</p>
<p>Barrie–Springwater–Oro-Medonte MP Doug Shipley expressed his condolences following the incident.</p>
<p>&#8220;I am deeply saddened to hear of the tragedy at CFB Wainwright,&#8221; he said.</p>
<p>&#8220;My thoughts are with the Members of CFB Wainwright, their families, and the surrounding community impacted by this incident on the base.&#8221;</p>
<p>Prime Minister Mark Carney also addressed the tragedy, offering support to those affected.<br />
“Our hearts go with and we are praying for the wounded,” he said.</p>
<p>“And we stand in solidarity and compassion for the families, the friends, and the colleagues of all those affected by this tragedy. Canadians come together in crisis.”</p>
<p>The Canadian Armed Forces confirmed the deaths and injuries.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/oro-medonte-mayoral-candidates-son-critically-injured-in-alberta-base-fire/">Oro-Medonte mayoral candidate’s son critically injured in Alberta base fire</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
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		<title>Ottawa Police Blotter &#8211; October 21</title>
		<link>https://compassnews.ca/ottawa-police-blotter-october-21/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kamal Aboulmagd]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 21 Oct 2026 00:11:38 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ottawa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[blotter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ottawa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ottawa Police]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://compassnews.ca/?p=5673</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Good Morning Ottawa, The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has been very busy with a number of stories to report on.  OPS Member Charged with Impaired Driving Stemming from an incident that occurred on October 10, Cst. Clay Berrea, age 25, was charged with Operation while impaired and Operation while having a blood alcohol concentration equal [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/ottawa-police-blotter-october-21/">Ottawa Police Blotter &#8211; October 21</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Good Morning Ottawa, The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has been very busy with a number of stories to report on. </span></p>
<h2><b>OPS Member Charged with Impaired Driving</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Stemming from <a href="https://www.ottawapolice.ca/en/news/posts/ops-member-charged/">an incident that occurred on October 10, Cst. Clay Berrea</a>, age 25, was charged with Operation while impaired and Operation while having a blood alcohol concentration equal to or exceeding 80 mg of alcohol in 100 mL of blood in an off-duty incident. While he remains on active duty, he has been reassigned to administrative duties and is not currently serving in a frontline patrol capacity.  </span></p>
<h2><b>Suspicious fire under investigation on Moonbeam Street</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">On October 17, <a href="https://www.ottawapolice.ca/en/news/posts/suspicious-fire-under-investigation-on-moonbeam-street/">at approximately 2 a.m., a fire occurred</a> at a single-family home on the 0-100 block of Moonbeam Street in Barrhaven. The incident is considered suspicious, and the investigation is ongoing. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There were no reported injuries, but there was substantial damage to the dwelling. The origin and cause of the fire are being investigated by the OPS partner agency, the Office of the Fire Marshal, with the ongoing support of the Ottawa Fire Service. Investigators are asking anyone with information, including surveillance or dashcam footage from the area at the time, to come forward.</span></p>
<h2><b>Pedestrian struck on Riverside Drive; life-threatening condition</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">On October 20, <a href="https://www.ottawapolice.ca/en/news/posts/pedestrian-struck-on-riverside-drive-life-threatening-condition/">at approximately 4:28 a.m., emergency crews responded</a> to a collision on Riverside Drive where a 23-year-old woman had been struck by a vehicle. She was transported to hospital in life-threatening condition. The driver of the vehicle did not sustain any injuries. The investigation is ongoing. Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or who has dash camera footage of the collision, to contact the Fatal Collision Investigation Unit.</span></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/ottawa-police-blotter-october-21/">Ottawa Police Blotter &#8211; October 21</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
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		<title>“A time for serious leadership” &#8211; Sutcliffe speaks about election platform</title>
		<link>https://compassnews.ca/a-time-for-serious-leadership-sutcliffe-speaks-about-election-platform/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Daniel Arnold]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 20 Oct 2026 14:28:44 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Election]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Municipal News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ottawa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Politics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[election]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mayor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ottawa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sutcliffe]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://compassnews.ca/?p=5659</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe unveiled a 70-page document laying out hundreds of promises for his reelection campaign last week. With days until the election, his plan represents the most comprehensive of any candidate, Sutcliffe told CompassNews. “We have the most comprehensive and detailed platform of any candidates running for mayor in this election,” he said. [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/a-time-for-serious-leadership-sutcliffe-speaks-about-election-platform/">“A time for serious leadership” &#8211; Sutcliffe speaks about election platform</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe unveiled a 70-page document laying out hundreds of promises for his reelection campaign last week. With days until the election, his plan represents the most comprehensive of any candidate, Sutcliffe told <em>CompassNews</em>.</p>
<p>“We have the most comprehensive and detailed platform of any candidates running for mayor in this election,” he said. &#8220;The other candidates have put out ideas, but they’re thin on details.”</p>
<p>Sutcliffe said a key focus of his for the city is preparing for the city’s projected growth of over 500,000 people before 2050.</p>
<p>“The big question that we have in front of us this election is how are we going to prepare for that growth, and who has a plan to do it,” the incumbent mayor said.</p>
<p>“I have an infrastructure plan, I have a plan to improve public transit,” he said. “I have a plan to make sure that our economy is growing and keeping pace with the growth in the number of people.”</p>
<p>The plan also includes significant investment in key infrastructure across the city to close the city’s &#8220;infrastructure gap” with an investment between $10 billion and $11 billion.</p>
<p>“I have a plan to fill that [infrastructure] gap, and we’re going to rely on a number of different sources of revenue to do that, and we are going to build the infrastructure we need for a growing city,” Sutcliffe said.</p>
<p>Sutcliffe said that improving Ottawa’s infrastructure is especially important in the wake of the significant flooding that struck the city in July.</p>
<p>If reelected for the city’s highest office, Sutcliffe said he would allocate $500 million for flood prevention and mitigation efforts as part of his infrastructure plan.</p>
<p>“We have the best quality of life in any major city in Canada, we need to preserve that by investing in our roads and sidewalks, our recreational centres, our parks and our public transit,” Sutcliffe said. “And that’s what this $10 billion infrastructure plan is about.”</p>
<p>Another key pillar of Sutcliffe’s plan is improving city services, from emergency response times to filling potholes.</p>
<p>Hiring 350 more police officers, paramedics and firefighters is a promise that the incumbent mayor has made on the campaign trail, and is reiterated in his outlined plan.</p>
<p>In addition to hiring more first responders, the mayor promises to evaluate firefighter staffing, improve paramedic response times and increase special constable postings in Ottawa hospitals.</p>
<p>If reelected, Sutcliffe also promises to overhaul pothole responses by city staff, including expanding the use of Python 5000 pothole fillers, two of which the city has in a rental capacity.</p>
<p>“We hear all the time about potholes, it’s especially tough in Ottawa with the freeze-thaw cycles. We end up with a lot of potholes, and we have a lot of roads,” he said.</p>
<p>As the city faces a number of challenges, Sutcliffe said he believes the city needs candidates who make promises leading up to the election, rather than figuring out their priorities after being elected.</p>
<p>“I think this is a time that calls for serious leadership and a detailed plan,” Sutcliffe said. “I have a 70-page platform with more than 230 different commitments that we’re making for the people of Ottawa,” he added.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/a-time-for-serious-leadership-sutcliffe-speaks-about-election-platform/">“A time for serious leadership” &#8211; Sutcliffe speaks about election platform</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
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		<title>Barrie retains AAA credit rating for second straight year</title>
		<link>https://compassnews.ca/barrie-retains-aaa-credit-rating-for-second-straight-year/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Stephen J. Donkers]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 20 Oct 2026 11:50:13 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Barrie]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Business]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[barrie]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[credit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[S&P]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://compassnews.ca/?p=5663</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Barrie’s finances get top marks again. S&#38;P Global Ratings has reaffirmed Barrie’s AAA credit rating, maintaining the city’s standing at the highest level possible for a second consecutive year. The rating reflects the city’s financial management, stable economic outlook and ability to balance infrastructure spending with long-term fiscal stability. In October 2025, Barrie received the [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/barrie-retains-aaa-credit-rating-for-second-straight-year/">Barrie retains AAA credit rating for second straight year</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Barrie’s finances get top marks again.</p>
<p>S&amp;P Global Ratings has reaffirmed Barrie’s AAA credit rating, maintaining the city’s standing at the highest level possible for a second consecutive year.</p>
<p>The rating reflects the city’s financial management, stable economic outlook and ability to balance infrastructure spending with long-term fiscal stability.</p>
<p>In October 2025, Barrie received the AAA credit rating for the first time. The rating agency said the city is managing growth while maintaining a strong financial position.</p>
<p>The rating allows Barrie to borrow money at lower interest rates, potentially reducing the cost of key infrastructure projects. The lower borrowing costs can help reduce the tax burden while funding major infrastructure projects needed for growth.</p>
<p>Barrie Chief Administrative Officer Michael Prowse said in a press release the city’s sound financial decisions have helped maintain its top credit rating.</p>
<p>“Barrie continues to be one of the few municipalities in the country to have the highest possible credit rating, thanks to continued work by our Mayor and Council,” he said.</p>
<p>“The City makes sound financial decisions, allowing us to maintain this strong credit reputation. Barrie is managing its budget while planning for future growth – this is supported by clear policies, a smart approach to capital planning, and skilled staff to help ensure the City&#8217;s debt and available funds are well managed.”</p>
<p>In a social media post, Mayor Alex Nuttall said the rating would help keep borrowing costs down for residents.</p>
<p>“What this means for Barrie families is that our borrowing costs are lower, which reduces the tax burden on the people of Barrie,” he said.</p>
<p>“I want to say thank you to all the incredible city public servants who helped make this possible, and to Barrie City Council for making sound and prudent financial decisions over the last number of years. We again see a stabilization of our credit rating, with support from S&amp;P saying the City of Barrie is in the best financial shape it can be as a municipality.”</p>
<p>S&amp;P cited Barrie’s diverse economy, population growth and proximity to the GTA as strengths, along with its growing professional services and manufacturing sectors.</p>
<p>The report noted the city has limited debt by funding major projects without significant borrowing, a trend expected to continue. Barrie’s 2026 boundary expansion into</p>
<p>Springwater and Oro-Medonte also increases land available for housing and employment.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/barrie-retains-aaa-credit-rating-for-second-straight-year/">Barrie retains AAA credit rating for second straight year</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
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		<title>This Week in Barrie: Week of October 19</title>
		<link>https://compassnews.ca/this-week-in-barrie-week-of-october-19/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[City Of Barrie]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 19 Oct 2026 14:29:43 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Barrie]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Municipal News]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://compassnews.ca/?p=5650</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>&#160; Voting is underway – Cast your vote in the Municipal Election today Eligible electors can now cast their vote in the 2026 Municipal Election for the offices of Mayor, Councillor, and School Board Trustee. Vote online or by phone using the unique PIN provided in your Voter Information Letter (VIL) by 8 p.m. on [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/this-week-in-barrie-week-of-october-19/">This Week in Barrie: Week of October 19</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><b>Voting is underway – Cast your vote in the Municipal Election today</b></p>
<p><a href="http://barrie.ca/election"><b><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-4848 alignright" src="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/7.-Election-300x169.png" alt="a &quot;Barrie Votes&quot; 2026 Municipal Election sign" width="231" height="130" srcset="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/7.-Election-300x169.png 300w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/7.-Election-1024x576.png 1024w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/7.-Election-768x432.png 768w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/7.-Election-747x420.png 747w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/7.-Election-150x84.png 150w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/7.-Election-696x392.png 696w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/7.-Election-1068x601.png 1068w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/7.-Election.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 231px) 100vw, 231px" /></b></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Eligible electors can now cast their vote in the 2026 Municipal Election for the offices of Mayor, Councillor, and School Board Trustee. Vote online or by phone using the unique PIN provided in your Voter Information Letter (VIL) by 8 p.m. on Monday, October 26. If you have not received your VIL or need further assistance, visit any of Barrie&#8217;s six voter assistance centres.  </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> For further details and assistance centre locations, please visit </span><a href="https://www.barrie.ca/government-news/2026-municipal-election"><span style="font-weight: 400;">barrie.ca/election</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p>
<hr />
<p><b>Free Halloween fun awaits at Family Fright Fest</b></p>
<p><a href="http://barrie.ca/FrightFest"><b> <img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-5652 alignright" src="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2.-Fright-Fest-1-300x169.jpg" alt="" width="254" height="143" srcset="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2.-Fright-Fest-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2.-Fright-Fest-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2.-Fright-Fest-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2.-Fright-Fest-1-747x420.jpg 747w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2.-Fright-Fest-1-150x84.jpg 150w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2.-Fright-Fest-1-696x392.jpg 696w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2.-Fright-Fest-1-1068x601.jpg 1068w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2.-Fright-Fest-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 254px) 100vw, 254px" /></b></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Family Fright Fest is back on October 24! From 3 to 9 p.m., Lampman Lane Park &amp; Community Centre will be transformed into a Halloween destination featuring a haunted house, inflatables, crafts, food trucks, a costume contest, local vendors, and more. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There’s something for every age to enjoy. For full event details, visit</span> <a href="https://www.barrie.ca/community-recreation-environment/community-events/family-fright-fest"><span style="font-weight: 400;">barrie.ca/FrightFest</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p>
<hr />
<p><b>City recognizes Waste Reduction Week with free community events </b></p>
<p><a href="http://barrie.ca/ReThinkWaste"><b><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-5653 alignright" src="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/3.-Waste-Reduction-Week-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="150" srcset="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/3.-Waste-Reduction-Week-300x200.jpg 300w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/3.-Waste-Reduction-Week-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/3.-Waste-Reduction-Week-768x512.jpg 768w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/3.-Waste-Reduction-Week-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/3.-Waste-Reduction-Week-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/3.-Waste-Reduction-Week-630x420.jpg 630w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/3.-Waste-Reduction-Week-150x100.jpg 150w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/3.-Waste-Reduction-Week-696x464.jpg 696w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/3.-Waste-Reduction-Week-1068x712.jpg 1068w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/3.-Waste-Reduction-Week-1920x1280.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px" /></b></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The City of Barrie is recognizing Circular Economy Month and Waste Reduction Week (October 19 to 25) by helping residents learn how to reduce waste and make informed disposal decisions. Join the City and the Barrie Public Library for a free STEAM Challenge on October 21, where participants can explore what happens to garbage, recycling, and organics after collection. Residents can also visit the Barrie Farmers’ Market on October 24 to “Ask a Waste Expert” about waste sorting, disposal options, and ways to reduce waste at home. City staff will also be at the Barrie Colts game on October 22, offering interactive games and tips to help attendees test their waste-sorting knowledge. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Learn more at  </span><a href="https://www.barrie.ca/community-recreation-environment/environment/conservation-sustainability/circular-economy"><span style="font-weight: 400;">barrie.ca/CircularEconomy</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><a href="https://www.barrie.ca/services-payments/garbage-recycling-organics/rethink-waste"><span style="font-weight: 400;">barrie.ca/ReThinkWaste</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p>
<hr />
<p><b>Thank you for your patience during yard waste season!</b></p>
<p><a href="http://barrie.ca/composting"><b> <img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-5655 alignright" src="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Screen-Shot-2026-10-19-at-10.26.23-AM-300x289.png" alt="" width="129" height="124" srcset="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Screen-Shot-2026-10-19-at-10.26.23-AM-300x289.png 300w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Screen-Shot-2026-10-19-at-10.26.23-AM-1024x986.png 1024w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Screen-Shot-2026-10-19-at-10.26.23-AM-768x740.png 768w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Screen-Shot-2026-10-19-at-10.26.23-AM-1536x1479.png 1536w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Screen-Shot-2026-10-19-at-10.26.23-AM-436x420.png 436w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Screen-Shot-2026-10-19-at-10.26.23-AM-150x144.png 150w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Screen-Shot-2026-10-19-at-10.26.23-AM-696x670.png 696w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Screen-Shot-2026-10-19-at-10.26.23-AM-1068x1029.png 1068w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Screen-Shot-2026-10-19-at-10.26.23-AM.png 1790w" sizes="(max-width: 129px) 100vw, 129px" /></b></a></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, BlinkMacSystemFont, -apple-system, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">In late October, curbside yard waste volumes increase, and trucks may need extra trips to the landfill. Collection might take a little longer on some days, but all yard waste will be picked up by end of day Friday.  </span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Verdana, BlinkMacSystemFont, -apple-system, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">For more information, visit </span><a href="https://www.barrie.ca/services-payments/garbage-recycling-organics/composting"><span style="font-weight: 400;">barrie.ca/composting</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></span></p>
<hr />
<p><b>Have fun and stay active this fall with a Barrie recPASS </b></p>
<p><a href="https://www.barrie.ca/community-recreation-environment/recreation-programs/recpass-membership"><b><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-5619 alignright" src="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/5.-RecPass-kids-300x210.jpg" alt="" width="249" height="174" srcset="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/5.-RecPass-kids-300x210.jpg 300w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/5.-RecPass-kids-1024x717.jpg 1024w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/5.-RecPass-kids-768x538.jpg 768w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/5.-RecPass-kids-1536x1075.jpg 1536w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/5.-RecPass-kids-600x420.jpg 600w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/5.-RecPass-kids-150x105.jpg 150w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/5.-RecPass-kids-696x487.jpg 696w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/5.-RecPass-kids-1068x748.jpg 1068w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/5.-RecPass-kids-100x70.jpg 100w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/5.-RecPass-kids.jpg 1557w" sizes="(max-width: 249px) 100vw, 249px" /></b></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Get the most for your recreation dollars by buying a </span><a href="https://www.barrie.ca/community-recreation-environment/recreation-programs/recpass-membership"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Barrie recPASS</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for you and your family! The recPASS includes access to ALL fitness, swimming, skating, open gym and kids&#8217; </span><a href="https://www.barrie.ca/community-recreation-environment/recreation-programs/dropins"><span style="font-weight: 400;">drop-in programs</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> plus UNLIMITED access to our fitness centres at the </span><a href="https://www.barrie.ca/community-recreation-environment/facilities-venues/allandale-recreation-centre"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Allandale Recreation Centre</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><a href="https://www.barrie.ca/community-recreation-environment/facilities-venues/east-bayfield-community-centre"><span style="font-weight: 400;">East Bayfield Community Centre</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, &amp; </span><a href="https://www.barrie.ca/community-recreation-environment/facilities-venues/peggy-hill-team-community-centre"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Peggy Hill Team Community Centre. </span></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Passes can be </span><a href="https://anc.ca.apm.activecommunities.com/barrie/membership/search?onlineSiteId=0"><span style="font-weight: 400;">purchased online</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or </span><a href="https://www.barrie.ca/community-recreation-environment/recreation-programs/recpass-membership#purchase"><span style="font-weight: 400;">in person</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> at a recreation centre.</span></p>
<hr />
<p><b>Looking for work? Attend the Industry Career Expo on October 21</b></p>
<p><a href="http://investbarrie.ca/events"><b><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-5587 alignright" src="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/8.-Hiring-Expo-300x139.png" alt="" width="281" height="130" srcset="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/8.-Hiring-Expo-300x139.png 300w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/8.-Hiring-Expo-768x355.png 768w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/8.-Hiring-Expo-908x420.png 908w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/8.-Hiring-Expo-150x69.png 150w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/8.-Hiring-Expo-696x322.png 696w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/8.-Hiring-Expo.png 962w" sizes="(max-width: 281px) 100vw, 281px" /></b></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Connect with employers hiring across manufacturing, engineering, technology, skilled trades, digital media, business and innovation at the </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Industry Hiring Event &amp; Career Expo: Explore Careers Where Manufacturing, Technology and Digital Creativity Collide</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. The event takes place on October 21 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Five Points Theatre (1 Dunlop Street West). Hosted in partnership by Lakehead University, Georgian College, and Invest Barrie, this collaborative workforce development initiative brings together employers, post-secondary institutions, and the community to strengthen the future workforce of Barrie and Simcoe County. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Learn more at </span><a href="https://www.investbarrie.ca/events"><b>investbarrie.ca/events</b></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p>
<hr />
<p><b>Nominations open for the 2026 Mayor’s Innovation Awards</b></p>
<p><a href="http://investbarrie.ca/InnovationAwards"><b><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-5412 alignright" src="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screen-Shot-2026-09-14-at-9.40.45-AM-300x201.png" alt="" width="224" height="150" srcset="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screen-Shot-2026-09-14-at-9.40.45-AM-300x201.png 300w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screen-Shot-2026-09-14-at-9.40.45-AM-1024x687.png 1024w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screen-Shot-2026-09-14-at-9.40.45-AM-768x515.png 768w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screen-Shot-2026-09-14-at-9.40.45-AM-1536x1031.png 1536w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screen-Shot-2026-09-14-at-9.40.45-AM-2048x1374.png 2048w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screen-Shot-2026-09-14-at-9.40.45-AM-626x420.png 626w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screen-Shot-2026-09-14-at-9.40.45-AM-150x101.png 150w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screen-Shot-2026-09-14-at-9.40.45-AM-696x467.png 696w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screen-Shot-2026-09-14-at-9.40.45-AM-1068x717.png 1068w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screen-Shot-2026-09-14-at-9.40.45-AM-1920x1288.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 224px) 100vw, 224px" /></b></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Do you know a business, individual or community group that has shown strength, creativity, adaptation or innovation this past year? Nominate them for the </span><a href="https://www.investbarrie.ca/whats-new/events/mayors-innovation-awards"><span style="font-weight: 400;">2026 Mayor’s Innovation Awards</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Each year, these awards recognize the innovative approaches and sheer determination that contributes to a resilient foundation for our city. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Local artists and graphic designers working in the digital field are also invited to </span><a href="https://www.investbarrie.ca/whats-new/events/mayors-innovation-awards#trophy"><span style="font-weight: 400;">submit a concept for the Mayor&#8217;s Innovation Awards trophy</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Nominations are open until November 18 at 11:59 p.m.</span></p>
<hr />
<p><b>Artists invited to exhibit at City Hall Gallery</b></p>
<p><a href="http://barrie.ca/FirstFloorGallery"><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-5588 alignright" src="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/10.-First-Floor-Gallery-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="150" srcset="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/10.-First-Floor-Gallery-300x225.jpg 300w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/10.-First-Floor-Gallery-768x576.jpg 768w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/10.-First-Floor-Gallery-560x420.jpg 560w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/10.-First-Floor-Gallery-80x60.jpg 80w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/10.-First-Floor-Gallery-150x113.jpg 150w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/10.-First-Floor-Gallery-696x522.jpg 696w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/10.-First-Floor-Gallery-265x198.jpg 265w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/10.-First-Floor-Gallery.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px" /></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Local artists, collectives, organizations and clubs are invited to submit exhibition proposals for Barrie’s City Hall First Floor Gallery. The gallery showcases local artwork through two-month exhibitions and provides selected artists with paid opportunities to display their work throughout 2027. Applications must include an artist statement, images of the proposed artwork, and supporting exhibition information. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Proposals are due by 11:59 p.m. on November 19. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">For submission requirements and details, visit </span><a href="https://www.barrie.ca/community-recreation-environment/arts-culture/first-floor-gallery"><span style="font-weight: 400;">barrie.ca/FirstFloorGallery</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or email </span><a href="mailto:creative@barrie.ca"><span style="font-weight: 400;">creative@barrie.ca</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p>
<hr />
<p><b>Local businesses invited to explore global opportunities</b></p>
<p><a href="http://investbarrie.ca/TariffResources"><b><img decoding="async" class="size-medium wp-image-5532 alignright" src="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/10.-Trade-and-Accelerator-Program-300x157.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="157" srcset="https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/10.-Trade-and-Accelerator-Program-300x157.jpg 300w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/10.-Trade-and-Accelerator-Program-1024x536.jpg 1024w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/10.-Trade-and-Accelerator-Program-768x402.jpg 768w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/10.-Trade-and-Accelerator-Program-803x420.jpg 803w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/10.-Trade-and-Accelerator-Program-150x79.jpg 150w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/10.-Trade-and-Accelerator-Program-696x364.jpg 696w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/10.-Trade-and-Accelerator-Program-1068x559.jpg 1068w, https://compassnews.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/10.-Trade-and-Accelerator-Program.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></b></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ready to grow your business beyond Canada? Applications are now open for Barrie’s Trade Accelerator Program (TAP), beginning October 29. The free program helps businesses expand into international markets through expert-led workshops, one-on-one mentoring, and customized export planning. Eligible participants can apply at no cost. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Learn more and get application details at </span><a href="https://www.investbarrie.ca/whats-new/canada-us-tariff-resources"><span style="font-weight: 400;">investbarrie.ca/TariffResources</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p>
<hr />
<p><em>Presented by <a href="http://www.barrie.ca/">The City of Barrie</a></em></p>
<article class="css-1mquhau">
<div class="jsx-3163791036 post-body">
<p><em>The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of The City of Barrie and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of iPolitics.</em></p>
</div>
</article>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/this-week-in-barrie-week-of-october-19/">This Week in Barrie: Week of October 19</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
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		<title>Barrie Ward 10 candidates focus on traffic, growth and neighbourhood safety</title>
		<link>https://compassnews.ca/barrie-ward-10-candidates-focus-on-traffic-growth-and-neighbourhood-safety/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Stephen J. Donkers]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 15 Oct 2026 11:29:37 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Barrie]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Municipal News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Politics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[City Council]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[council]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[election]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ward 10]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://compassnews.ca/?p=5637</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Candidates running in Barrie’s Ward 10 are outlining competing approaches to traffic congestion, neighbourhood safety, development and the infrastructure needed to support a growing city. Incumbent Coun. Bryn Hamilton is seeking a second term, while challenger Georgy Kapustin is running for the council seat. William Cadeau, who is also running in Ward 10, did not [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/barrie-ward-10-candidates-focus-on-traffic-growth-and-neighbourhood-safety/">Barrie Ward 10 candidates focus on traffic, growth and neighbourhood safety</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Candidates running in Barrie’s Ward 10 are outlining competing approaches to traffic congestion, neighbourhood safety, development and the infrastructure needed to support a growing city.</p>
<p>Incumbent Coun. Bryn Hamilton is seeking a second term, while challenger Georgy Kapustin is running for the council seat. William Cadeau, who is also running in Ward 10, did not respond to Compass News in time for publication.</p>
<p>Hamilton, who has called Ward 10 home for 46 years, said she wants to build on the progress made during her first term while continuing to address residents’ concerns.</p>
<p>“I decided to run again because I believe there’s still a lot we can accomplish,” she said.</p>
<p>“I genuinely care about the people who live here and the direction our city is heading. I&#8217;m proud of what we&#8217;ve accomplished over the past four years, both in Ward 10 and across the city.”</p>
<p>She said her priorities for a second term include responsible growth, safer neighbourhoods and financial accountability. During her term, she has worked with residents and city staff on approximately 20 traffic-related reviews and wants to continue pursuing improvements around school zones, speeding and busy intersections.</p>
<p>Hamilton identified traffic safety in south Barrie as an issue requiring greater attention, particularly along Prince William Way and The Queensway.</p>
<p>She said roads, transit, parks, schools and recreation facilities must be coordinated with development approvals, while established neighbourhoods must also be considered.</p>
<p>“Ward 10 continues to grow, and we need to make sure our roads, parks, recreation facilities and other infrastructure keep up,” she said.</p>
<p>“We also can&#8217;t lose sight of our existing neighbourhoods and the challenges residents are already experiencing. Traffic and road safety will continue to be a big focus for me. Growth isn’t just about building more homes – it’s about building functional neighbourhoods where people can get around safely, access services and enjoy a good quality of life.”</p>
<p>Kapustin, a Ward 10 resident who also works part-time as an Uber driver throughout Barrie, said his experiences on local roads have reinforced his concerns about congestion and transportation planning.</p>
<p>He said Barrie needs housing but should not measure growth solely by the number of units approved.</p>
<p>“Council needs to examine those consequences before approving projects, not after problems begin affecting existing residents,” he said.</p>
<p>Kapustin’s priorities include community safety, traffic congestion, winter snow removal and protecting established residential neighbourhoods while ensuring responsible growth.</p>
<p>“Barrie needs housing, but growth should not be measured simply by the number of housing units approved,” he said.</p>
<p>“We also need to consider how residents will get around, whether public transit can serve them reliably, and whether essential services are within walking distance. When public transit is inconvenient and everyday necessities are not available nearby, people have little choice but to rely on cars.”</p>
<p>Kapustin wants increased police visibility, stronger traffic enforcement, safer road designs and three rapid bus lines supported by connector routes.</p>
<p>“I want to see greater police presence in our communities and more consistent traffic enforcement to address speeding and dangerous driving,” he said.</p>
<p>“Road design should also help discourage excessive speeds and reduce the risk of collisions. To address growing traffic congestion, I would champion the introduction of three rapid bus lines, supported by loop and connector routes.”</p>
<p>For new high-density developments, he proposes a 700-metre walkability standard for essential services, ground-floor commercial space and more green space and play areas for families.</p>
<p>Both candidates support coordinating growth with infrastructure, but Hamilton emphasizes her experience and work with residents, while Kapustin proposes more prescriptive development requirements and expanded transportation and safety measures.</p>
<p>Voters will elect Ward 10’s councillor for the next four-year council term on Oct. 26.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/barrie-ward-10-candidates-focus-on-traffic-growth-and-neighbourhood-safety/">Barrie Ward 10 candidates focus on traffic, growth and neighbourhood safety</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
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		<title>&#8216;Quality of life&#8217; issues take centre stage in Ward 17 council race</title>
		<link>https://compassnews.ca/quality-of-life-issues-take-centre-stage-in-ward-17-council-race/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Daniel Arnold]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 22:17:52 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Election]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Municipal News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ottawa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Politics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://compassnews.ca/?p=5611</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Transit, housing and the redevelopment of the Lansdowne area are taking centre stage in the race for city council in Ottawa’s Ward 17.  Incumbent city councillor Shawn Menard is being challenged by community advocate and former NGO professional Farah Gulzar and public affairs student Jaac Doduck.  Menard is seeking re-election in the Capital Ward, which [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/quality-of-life-issues-take-centre-stage-in-ward-17-council-race/">&#8216;Quality of life&#8217; issues take centre stage in Ward 17 council race</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Transit, housing and the redevelopment of the Lansdowne area are taking centre stage in the race for city council in Ottawa’s Ward 17. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Incumbent city councillor Shawn Menard is being challenged by community advocate and former NGO professional Farah Gulzar and public affairs student Jaac Doduck. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Menard is seeking re-election in the Capital Ward, which he has represented in city council since 2018. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Representing the ward in city hall has been a “lifelong dream” for him, he told </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Compass News</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">His primary role as councillor is to address “quality of life” issues for residents in any way he can, the 44-year-old councillor said. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Right now the world can seem like a crazy place, but we can focus our sphere of influence to serve residents well, and I think that’s what we’ve done,” Menard said. “There’s more work to do on quality of life, and that’s where our focus is.” </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ward residents need “follow through and accountability” on issues surrounding the “basics of everyday life,” Gulzar, who was president of an organization focused on protecting women from domestic violence, said. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The ward “deserves a councillor who listens to residents, follows through on commitments and is accountable for results,” Gulzar, 41, told </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Compass News</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Doduck, a public affairs student at Carleton University and an employee at the Glebe Community Centre, said the ward needs candidates who understand the issues students face. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ward 17 has a high concentration of students due to the location of Carleton University located within its boundaries. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I’m someone who can really speak to those lived experiences that I really deal with,” Doduck, 25, told </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Compass News</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. There is an impact to “not having a student even so much as being on council,” he added. </span></p>
<p><strong>Affordability and reliability on transit are primary issues for voters </strong></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">All three candidates said that transit is a primary issue that they are hearing about from the ward’s residents. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Transit needs to be treated as an essential public service, not a budget line,” Gulzar said. Routes need to be reconfigured based on demand, and “better service reliability should be a priority,” she added. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The price of using the city’s transit services has been “too high,” and this has been a key priority for Menard during his time at city hall, he said. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In July a city-wide program providing free transit services for riders under 18 was implemented, a policy which was kickstarted by a motion presented by Menard. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Menard said that he is proud of this change. “We’re going to try and expand on that in the future, the cost of a transit pass needs to go down,” he said.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There are some “easy wins” on transit reliability which city council should go forward with, such as planned bus lanes between Baseline Road and Carling Avenue, as well as on Bank Street. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bus lines in the ward have seen increased frequency during Menard’s term, Doduck said. However, this progress is limited as buses become “bunched up” in traffic, he added. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Doduck said he’d like to see the Bank Street bus lane pilot project become a permanent 24-hour dedicated lane just for buses in the ward. Buses haven’t had enough space to get where they need to be, which vastly increases wait times for riders, he said.</span></p>
<p><strong>Lansdowne 2.0 sparks debate among residents in the ward</strong></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The redevelopment of the Lansdowne area has garnered a lot of attention Ottawa, and its impact has been felt most acutely in the Capital Ward. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The $419-million redevelopment project was passed in a 15-10 vote in city hall last November. Menard was among the 10 councillors who voted against the project. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If a fresh vote on the redevelopment project were held today, Menard said he would vote no again. Gulzar said she would also vote against the motion, while Doduck said he would support it. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The price of the project, fiscally and environmentally, is too high, Menard said. “The plan is very costly, and it’s getting worse where we’re losing over 58,000 square feet of green space.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“For all this money, we’re losing businesses that have been there for just ten years. They’re going to get torn down,” Menard said. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Gulzar said her top concern with the project is a lack of “clear answers” from the city. “Lansdowne is a major public investment and the numbers matter,” she said. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Over 700 housing units will be constructed as part of the development, a decision which Doduck said is part of his reasons for supporting the project. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I’d like to see Lansdowne become a place that feels more lived in,” Doduck said.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I do completely understand people&#8217;s concerns with the project, but I like all the ways that the city is trying to make it into a much more community space, trying to make it a much more livable space,” he said. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The winners of the city’s mayoral and council elections will be decided on Oct. 26, with advance voting coming up on Oct. 16. </span></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/quality-of-life-issues-take-centre-stage-in-ward-17-council-race/">&#8216;Quality of life&#8217; issues take centre stage in Ward 17 council race</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
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		<title>Georgian College adding five career-focused programs in 2027</title>
		<link>https://compassnews.ca/georgian-college-adding-five-career-focused-programs-in-2027/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Stephen J. Donkers]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 22:05:51 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Barrie]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Georgian college]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[study]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[training]]></category>
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					<description><![CDATA[<p>Georgian College is expanding its career training options with five new programs launching in 2027-28, including medical radiation technology, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. The new offerings are designed to prepare students for emerging career opportunities and evolving workforce needs. The three-year Medical Radiation Technology advanced diploma will prepare students for careers in diagnostic imaging. Through [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/georgian-college-adding-five-career-focused-programs-in-2027/">Georgian College adding five career-focused programs in 2027</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Georgian College is expanding its career training options with five new programs launching in 2027-28, including medical radiation technology, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.</p>
<p>The new offerings are designed to prepare students for emerging career opportunities and evolving workforce needs.</p>
<p>The three-year Medical Radiation Technology advanced diploma will prepare students for careers in diagnostic imaging. Through classroom instruction, simulation-based learning and three clinical placements, students will develop skills in radiological sciences, imaging procedures and patient care.</p>
<p>The full-time program will begin in fall 2027 at Georgian’s Barrie Campus.<br />
Sheila West, Georgian’s vice-president, academic, said in a media release the new programs will help meet changing workforce needs.</p>
<p>“Georgian’s new programs will create more opportunities for students to build practical skills and pursue meaningful careers while helping respond to changing workforce needs,” she said.</p>
<p>“They give prospective students more choices to find a program that reflects their interests, experience and career goals.”</p>
<p>The college’s other new offerings include three two-year Ontario college diplomas: Applied Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity Technician and Game – Art and Animation.</p>
<p>The Applied Artificial Intelligence program will focus on data analysis, machine learning and generative AI, while the Cybersecurity Technician program will cover cloud security, ethical hacking and digital forensics. Students in Game – Art and Animation will develop skills in game art, animation and visual effects.</p>
<p>Artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly common in Canada’s workforce. According to Statistics Canada, 35.9 per cent of Canadian workers aged 15 to 69 reported using generative AI tools for their main job or business in March 2026.</p>
<p>The fifth new offering, Fundraising Management, is a one-year graduate certificate delivered online. The program will focus on donor engagement, campaign planning and resource development.</p>
<p>Applications are now open for all five programs, which are scheduled to begin in 2027.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/georgian-college-adding-five-career-focused-programs-in-2027/">Georgian College adding five career-focused programs in 2027</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
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		<title>Ottawa Police Blotter &#8211; October 14</title>
		<link>https://compassnews.ca/ottawa-police-blotter-october-14/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kamal Aboulmagd]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2026 09:55:55 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Municipal News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ottawa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[blotter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ottawa Police]]></category>
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					<description><![CDATA[<p>Teacher charged with historical sexual offences On October 7th, the Ottawa Police Service’s Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Unit arrested and charged a teacher with the Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) for historical incidents involving a student that occurred between 2021 and 2022. Nancy Lescarbeau, 52, of Ottawa, has been arrested and charged for a [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/ottawa-police-blotter-october-14/">Ottawa Police Blotter &#8211; October 14</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><b>Teacher charged with historical sexual offences</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">On October 7th, <a href="https://www.ottawapolice.ca/en/news/posts/teacher-charged-with-historical-sexual-offences/">the Ottawa Police Service’s Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Unit arrested</a> and charged a teacher with the Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) for historical incidents involving a student that occurred between 2021 and 2022.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Nancy Lescarbeau, 52, of Ottawa, has been arrested and charged for a number of following offences including Sexual Assault, Sexual Interference, Invitation to Sexual Touching, Invitation to Exposure, Forcible Confinement, Intimidation by Threats of Violence, and Assault with a weapon. Investigators are concerned that there may be other student victims, and anyone with information is asked to contact the Ottawa Police Service Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Unit.</span></p>
<h2><b>Suspect sought in Sandy Hill commercial break-and-enters</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Ottawa Police Service <a href="https://www.ottawapolice.ca/en/news/posts/suspect-sought-in-sandy-hill-commercial-break-and-enters/">is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect</a> involved in a series of commercial break-and-enters.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The incidents occurred between August 12 and September 25, 2026, in the Sandy Hill area. The suspect is described as a White man with an average build, a dark beard and moustache. During the incidents, he was wearing a green and white baseball cap, a dark T-shirt, dark pants and shoes, and was carrying a dark knapsack. Photos of the individual are available on the OPS site, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Break and Enter unit.</span></p>
<h2><b>Fatal hit-and-run investigation; seeking driver of a dark-coloured Ford Escape</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">On October 2nd, police <a href="https://www.ottawapolice.ca/en/news/posts/fatal-hit-and-run-investigation-seeking-driver-of-a-dark-coloured-ford-escape/">responded to a fatal hit-and-run collision that occurred</a> in the area of West Hunt Club Road and Merivale Road.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At 5:56 a.m., on October 2nd, emergency crews responded to a report of a collision involving a motorcycle and a motor vehicle. The motorcyclist, a 21-year-old woman, was transported to hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries. The vehicle involved in the collision left the scene before police arrived.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Police have now identified the vehicle as a dark-coloured Ford Escape and sustained front-end damage, specifically on the right-side fog light area. Police are continuing to work to identify the vehicle and establish the circumstances surrounding the collision. As the investigation continues, investigators are also looking to speak with a witness who was driving a red pickup truck near the collision site at the time of the incident. Investigators believe this individual may have information that could assist with the ongoing investigation. The driver of the red pickup truck is not being identified as a suspect, and police are simply asking the individual to come forward and speak with investigators.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Anyone who was in the area at the time of the collision, or who may have dash-camera or other video footage that could assist investigators, is asked to contact the Ottawa Police Service Fatal Collision Investigation Unit.</span></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://compassnews.ca/ottawa-police-blotter-october-14/">Ottawa Police Blotter &#8211; October 14</a> appeared first on <a href="https://compassnews.ca">CompassNews</a>.</p>
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