Local News Briefs
- Inquest Into Fatal Shooting By NRP – A coroner’s inquest will be held into the death of Fred Penner, who died after being shot by police on Dec 31, 2019 in the west end of St. Catharines. Officers were cleared by the Special Investigations Unit months ago but now the Hamilton coroner’s office will conduct an inquest that will include a jury and “examine the circumstances surrounding Mr. Penner’s death”. (InNiagara Region)
- City Wants To Partner With New Owners Of YMCA – The city of St. Catharines is hoping to meet with the new owners of the Walker Family Centre YMCA to explore any potential partnerships. No plan has been announced for the property, which was was sold to Atria Development Corporation last January. (CKTB)
- Concern Over Raised Canal Bridges – The city of St. Catharines will be asking Transport Canada and the St. Lawrence Seaway Authority to not raise both the Lakeshore Road and Carlton Street bridges at the same time. Councillor Bill Phillips, who made the motion, said having both bridges raised creates a potentially dangerous situation since first responders could be delayed in responding to emergencies. (St. Catharines Standard)
- Councillor’s Expenses Questioned – The Niagara Region’s Audit Committee has recommended that over $1200 in submitted expenses by former regional councillor Mike Britton be rejected. Staff asks Britton for itemized receipts and more information regarding the expenses but Britton’s response did not provide staff with enough clarity on whether the items were eligible. (St. Catharines Standard)