Wall-Breaking Marks the Start of the W.J. Henderson Recreation Centre Renewal Project

Loyalist Township experienced a significant milestone on Saturday, March 23, 2024, as local dignitaries, including Mayor Jim Hegadorn, Township Council, and staff, along with representatives from Infrastructure Canada, The City of Kingston, W.J. Henderson Foundation, and the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund gathered for a ceremonial wall breaking at the W.J. Henderson Recreation Centre in Amherstview. This event symbolized the commencement of construction on the long-awaited project to renew the centre that has been a cornerstone of community life since its opening in September 1975.

The W.J. Henderson Recreation Centre has been a hub of activity for nearly five decades, fostering social connections and hosting countless memories of learning to skate, swim, and read. The renovation, set to be completed by January 2026, promises to uphold and enhance this legacy. With an estimated construction cost of $49.5 million, the project received a significant financial boost in December 2022 when the Government of Canada announced an investment of over $16.5 million through Infrastructure Canada’s Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program (GICB).

A pivotal aspect of the renovation is its focus on sustainability, incorporating energy conservation measures aimed at reducing energy usage and greenhouse gas emissions. The design aims to make the building net-zero ready, exemplifying a commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. 

Upcoming E-Waste, Battery & Textile Recycling Drive - Saturday, April 20

Loyalist Township is excited to announce our annual community electronic waste, household battery and textile recycling drive which will take place on Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. We invite everyone to drop by the Amherstview Fire Station, located at 363 Amherst Drive, to dispose of your electronic waste, household batteries and textiles in an environmentally friendly manner. 

The Township has partnered with Diabetes Canada this year to collect textiles. The average person throws away 37 kg of textiles per year – the majority of which could be reused or repurposed, but instead, ends up in landfills. Textiles can include clothing, curtains, towels, blankets, sheets, and footwear. Textile donations will be collected by Diabetes Canada at the end of the collection event, with textile net proceeds supporting diabetes research, D-camps and more. 

Electronic waste a.k.a. e-waste, represents one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally, containing hazardous substances that can harm the environment and human health if not properly handled. Loyalist Township staff will be present to ensure that all items are disposed of correctly. Information about the types of electronic waste, batteries and textiles accepted can be found on our Earth Day webpage.

Spring Community Clean-Up Day hosted by Free Flow Petroleum

Free Flow Petroleum, in Bath, is excited to organize the annual Spring Community Clean-Up Day once again in celebration of Earth Day. Help keep our community litter-free by grabbing a garbage and recycling bag before you head out to enjoy the fresh air on Saturday, April 20, 2024. From 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. you can help pick up litter throughout the village of Bath. Lunch will be provided for volunteers. For more information on this wonderful community initiative, feel free to email Roberta at robertay@freeflowpetroleum.com or call 613-352-5820.

Mobilizing Municipalities Campaign by Earth Day Canada

Earth Day 2024 takes place on Monday, April 22, 2024 and Loyalist Township is participating in the "Mobilizing Municipalities" campaign by Earth Day Canada, which aims to engage municipalities across Canada in climate action efforts. Recognizing the pivotal role of municipalities in combating climate change, the initiative has already seen commitments from 150 municipalities in 2023, with hopes to expand further in 2024.

As part of the campaign, Loyalist Township has created an Earth Day page on our website, with information about environmental efforts in the Township.

New for 2024! Loyalist Civic Awards

Loyalist Township appreciates the important impact that volunteer groups, non-profit organizations and individuals have in our community. 

Our new Civic Awards program celebrates the valuable contributions and roles that volunteering and community service play in making Loyalist Township a prosperous, creative, and resilient place to live, work and grow. 

Citizens are encouraged to nominate local individuals and/ or groups who have volunteered their time to benefit the community through projects, initiatives, events, and kindness service. Award Categories include:

• Citizen of the year – Bill Lowry Award
• Junior Citizen of the Year
• Senior Citizen of the Year
• Organization of the Year
• Resilient Community Award

Submit your Nomination Form before the closing deadline of Friday, April 26, 2024.

Updated Property Standards and Safe Properties By-laws: A Step Towards Sustainability

On February 27, 2024, updates to the Safe Properties and Property Standards by-laws were passed by Council. The updates to the Safe Properties by-law are primarily focused on enhancing the township's resilience to climate impacts and promoting biodiversity. By introducing definitions for concepts such as Border Buffer Strip, Naturalized Areas, and Wildflower Meadow, the by-law now provides a structured approach to developing pollinator-friendly areas across the township. This initiative aligns with the goals of the Resilient Loyalist Township Climate Action Plan, specifically aiming to protect and nurture pollinator populations essential for a healthy ecosystem. Additionally, the introduction of a "No Mow May" exclusion clause encourages residents to participate in conservation efforts directly, contributing to early pollinator support and reducing pollution from lawn maintenance activities.

These by-law updates come with no financial implications, indicating that the pursuit of sustainability and community resilience can be cost-effective and integral to municipal governance. The by-laws' alignment with the Resilient Climate Action Plan not only addresses specific environmental goals, such as developing a pollinator protection strategy but also underscores the importance of proactive, eco-friendly community development.