Friday, May 1, 2009

New Drinking Driving Laws

By: Sheri Leviski

2009-05-01

07:57:03

Kenora OPP are reminding the public that new drinking and driving legislation takes effect today.

Drivers found with a blood alcohol level between point-0-5 and point 0-8 will lose their licence for three days.   

A second offence brings a seven-day licence suspension and a visit to an alcohol education program.   

Three-time offenders lose their licence for 30 days and their vehicle will be fitted with an ignition interlock.

The licence suspensions cannot be appealed. 


Ontario Mining Act

By: Sheri Leviski

2009-05-01

07:44:48

The McGuinty Government is making significant strides in Aboriginal consultation in its proposed changes to the mining act.

Minister of Northern Development and Mines Michael Gravelle unveilled the new legislation Thursday.

Gravelle says the act will provide clear rules for industry and reduce the impact of mineral exploration on the environment.

If the legislation is passed, Ontario will begin putting new rules in place later this year.


NAN on Mining Act

By: Mike Ebbeling

2009-05-01

07:43:40

The Nishnawbe-Aski Nation is pleased the Provincial Government is starting to address aboriginal concerns but notes the proposed Mining Act doesn't meet all of their needs.

Grand Chief Stan Beardy says they are concerned that First Nations still don't have to be notified before a claim is staked.

Beardy adds the Legislation falls short of giving aboriginals a share of mining revenues.


Council Awards Landscaping Contract

By: Sheri Leviski

2009-05-01

07:41:44

Kenora City Council has awarded the tender for the remaining landscape work in the areas of the roundabout, City Hall, and Main Street.

Wilco Contracting had the winning bid, coming in at almost 574 thousand dollars.

Councillor Dave McCann says the landscaping will have a minimal impact on traffic.

That work is expected to be complete by June 30th.


Council Project Funding

By: Sheri Leviski

2009-05-01

07:40:46

Kenora City Council is applying for Federal and Provincial funding for a number of infrastructure projects.

One of the applications is for 7 million dollars from the Canada-Ontario Stimulus Fund.

Operations Committee Chair and Councillor Dave McCann says they want to put the funding towards repaving parts of Highway 17 east and west.

Council is also applying for money to fix up sections of Lakeview Drive as part of the Downtown Revitalization Project.