Local News Briefs
- Driveway Scam Alert – Police are warning the public to be aware of driveway scammers who frequently approach homeowners unsolicited, employing deceptive tactics such as overpromising, underquoting, and ultimately failing to deliver on their commitments. These scammers typically operate door-to-door, offering driveway paving or resurfacing services. (Niagara Regional Police)
- Thorold Approves Budget – Thorold city council has approved the 2024 operating and capital budgets. The budget reflects a 2.99% net levy increase to the overall residential bill. For the average home valued at $273,600 (MPAC 2016 valuation date) this will mean an increase of approximately $52. (City of Thorold)
- NOTL Tourism Strategy Costly – Niagara-on-the-Lake’s draft tourism strategy recommends implementing 12 immediate action items, including hiring an economic development and tourism director, which could cost from $458,000 to $551,000 in the first year. Niagara-on-the-Lake’s recently implemented municipal accommodation tax could help pay for the costs. (Niagara this Week)
- More Time To Pay Fines – The city of St. Catharines is allowing additional time for people with extenuating circumstances to pay tickets for noise, waste and other bylaw infractions. Currently, fines must be paid within 15 days but individuals with extenuating circumstances will now have 35 days to pay or appeal. (St. Catharines Standard)