St. Catharines News Briefs
- Thorold Requests Arena Report – Thorold City Council has ordered a detailed staff report on all the financial expenses pertaining to the first year of operation of the Walker Sports and Abilities Centre. One of the major points of concern for council members is that Thorold has been paying for ice time that is not being used. (Thorold Today)
- Developer’s Incentive Plan To Be Reviewed – St. Catharines Council has voted to create a working group made up of council and staff to review the community improvement plan that offers incentives to developers who meet certain criteria. The goal of the group is to tweak the program in order to make if more acceptable to all members of council. (St. Catharines Standard)
- Tourist Tax To Be Phased In – St. Catharines Council has decided to phase in over the next three years the four per cent Municipal Accommodation Tax that was passed by the previous council. This year, only two per cent will be charged to guests staying at hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts and short-term rentals. (CKTB)
- Thorold Delays Joining Climate Program – Thorold City Council has decided to defer a decision on joining the Partners for Climate Protection program, which provides a forum to share knowledge and experience on how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, due to the concern that there may be hidden costs. (Thorold Today)
- Region Scrutinizing Big Tax Increase – Niagara regional council is looking at ways of reducing the proposed 9.4 per cent increase on the Region’s portion of property tax bills. Final budget approval is set for late February. (St. Caharines Standard)
- Blood Donation Site Closing – Canadian Blood Services is shutting down its St. Catharines site on Ontario Street at the end of February. In the spring, a new plasma donation centre will open up on Vansickle Road. (105 The River)
