- Start playing the video
- Click CC at bottom right
- Click the gear icon to its right
- Click Subtitles/CC
- Click Auto-translate
- Select language you want
Fort Frances Town Committee of the Whole and Council Meeting May 8 2023
At the Fort Frances Council Meeting of May 8th, two motions put forward by Councillor Olsen with respect to the mental health, opioid and homelessness crises in the area, were passed. Most importantly through these new bylaws, the Council is seeking support from various politicians, organizations and health units to press the provincial and federal governments to provide more help for the region in dealing with these issues.These challenges are straining local programs, services and organizations. It was stated that these issues are most acute in their area - the north-west part of the province.
Upcoming events such as the Citizen and Junior Citizen of the Year Awards were approved as well as various items on the consent agenda.
Before the Council meeting there was a Committee Meeting of the Whole where there was more general discussion about various motions coming up.
What to do with the Sunny Cove Camp which is in disrepair was a large part of the discussion.The council faces a dilemma regarding the future of Sunny Cove Camp. The camp, vacant since COVID-19 began, requires significant repairs costing around half a million dollars for the main building alone. Some parties are interested in taking over the property, but ownership is needed to invest in repairs. Opinions differ among council members, with some advocating for exploring options and funding, while others suggest finding a buyer to continue the camp's use. Accessibility and the camp's remote location are concerns. The council will consider the long-term viability and community benefits before deciding.
Upcoming events such as the Citizen and Junior Citizen of the Year Awards and approved as well as various items on the consent agenda.
Additionally, Mayor Hallikas informed the other councillors of the conference he attended where he met colleagues from different municipalities and discussed issues of mutual concern. He learned, among other things, that there is a threat posed by invasive phragmites in the area.
He said that he also spoke at an event honouring the local Community Living Organization that plays the important role in the housing of and caring for mentally challenged and disabled. The Fort Frances and District flag was raised to acknowledge their work.
He also attended the Legion's annual veteran’s dinner to honour veterans' and also police officers' contributions.
Add new comment
The HTTV media team live in Northwestern-Ontario and work hard to fill the news, sports, and community coverage void created by the modern Canadian media industry. Local voices, values, and everyday news is shared across the web and social media platforms from people who have deep roots in these underserved communities.
From humble beginnings, HTTV is growing to become a trusted resource for local information. The internet news channel launched in 2017 is expanding to cover small communities in 3 central Canadian provinces. Communities served by HTTV will include Moose Jaw Saskatchewan, Portage la Prairie Manitoba and 4 hubs in Northwestern-Ontario: Kenora, Dryden, Red Lake and Fort Frances.
Recent Media
Rainy River First Nations Powwow, a Celebration of Indigenous Heritage and Unity
Fort Frances Commemorates Remembrance Day with Ceremony Honoring Veterans.
Fort Francis Council Supports Rail Safety and Local Initiatives
We encourage comments which further the dialogue about the stories we post. Comments will be moderated and posted if they follow these guidelines:
The Community Media Portal reserves the right to reject any comments which do not adhere to these minimum standards.