Friday, January 8, 2010

Emergency Services System NWO

The Northwest Local Health Integration Network wants to create a regional emergency services system.

It's one of the many ideas contained in the regional study.

Members of the Lake of the Woods Hospital Board have mixed feelings on the idea, stating that there are some good points but also some areas of concern.

C.E.O. Marc Balcaen says one of their concerns involves who will govern the emergency services commitee.

The hospital board is drafting a letter to the NW LHIN stating their concerns.

Sewer and Water Rates

Expect to pay a bit more for sewer and water services in the City of Kenora this year.

Kenora City Council is planning for a five percent increase starting July 1st, with possible increases of five percent a year over the next four years.

Councillor Dave McCann says they need the rate increases to try and reduce projected deficits in the department.

For the average home owner, the increase in sewer and water rates would amount to about three dollars and 50 cents a month.

Council is expected to approve the rate increases in the 2010 budget, which is set to be approved on February 6th.

OPP Stabbing Minto

Two people have been arrested following a pair of stabbing incidents in the north end of town.

The OPP say that around 9:00 last night, a fight broke out in the Minto area.

Two people sustained stab wounds and were taken to Lake of the WoodsDistrict Hospital for treatment.

One of the victims was released a short time later and the other was held for observation.

A short time later, police were able to arrest a21 year old Merrill Land.

A second suspect, a 17 year old male youth was arrested Thursday afternoon.

They have both been charged with aggravated assault and assault with a weapon.

Hudak tours NWO

The Leader of Ontario's Conservative Party is taking advantage of the break from Legislature to tour Northwestern Ontario.

Tim Hudak spoke to the Dryden Rotary Club yesterday at Eagles Landing.Hudak stressed the Liberal Government has turned its back on Northwestern Ontario.

Hudak unveiled more details of his Northern Jobs Plan which includes a guarantee to make area communities and First Nations eligible for a share of royalties from crown land developments.