York Region has introduced a new Signs on Regional Roads bylaw, aimed at improving safety and reducing clutter along busy routes. The changes are designed to better manage where signs can be placed while keeping roads clear and easier to navigate.

Under the updated rules, the number of permitted intersections for signs will drop significantly, from about 1,950 to 700. The bylaw also sets new standards for sign types, sizes, permits, and election signage, creating a more consistent approach across the region.

Officials say the changes will help reduce hazards such as blocked sightlines and distractions for drivers. By limiting sign placement and improving oversight, the region hopes to support safer road use and smoother traffic flow.

York Region has introduced a new Signs on Regional Roads bylaw, aimed at improving safety and reducing clutter along busy routes. The changes are designed to better manage where signs can be placed while keeping roads clear and easier to navigate.

Under the updated rules, the number of permitted intersections for signs will drop significantly, from about 1,950 to 700. The bylaw also sets new standards for sign types, sizes, permits, and election signage, creating a more consistent approach across the region.

Officials say the changes will help reduce hazards such as blocked sightlines and distractions for drivers. By limiting sign placement and improving oversight, the region hopes to support safer road use and smoother traffic flow.

As cottage season gets underway in Georgina, local officials are reminding residents and visitors to take simple fire safety steps when arriving at their properties. With many people returning after the winter months, checking basic safety measures can help prevent emergencies.

Officials recommend testing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, making sure exits are clear, and inspecting electrical equipment for any issues. They also advise reviewing fire escape plans with everyone staying at the cottage so that all guests know what to do in case of an emergency.

Taking a few minutes to go over these precautions can make a big difference, officials say. Being prepared helps ensure a safe and enjoyable start to the cottage season for everyone.

Spring has arrived in Georgina, bringing a full schedule of community events throughout May. Youth Week runs from May 1 – 7, with activities for young people and families happening across town. The warmer weather is also encouraging more residents to get out and take part in local programs.

Mid-month events include the Swap and Sell and Electronic Recycling Event on May 9, giving residents a chance to clear out unwanted items. Free Mother’s Day swims will be offered on May 10, and Bag Tag Exemption Week from May 19 to 22 will allow extra garbage to be set out without additional cost.

The month ends on May 30 with Curbside Giveaway Day and the seasonal opening of the Georgina Village Museum. These events give residents a chance to share items, find something new, and learn more about local history, wrapping up a busy and community-focused month.

The Town of Georgina is encouraging residents to consider running in the 2026 municipal election, with the nomination period set to open May 1 and run until August 21 at 2 p.m. A number of positions are available, including Mayor, Regional Councillor, Ward Councillors, and school board trustees, giving community members the opportunity to take part in local decision-making.

Those interested in running must book an appointment with the Town’s Clerk’s Division to file their nomination papers. Town officials say the process is designed to ensure all candidates receive the information they need and complete the required steps properly ahead of the election.

Voting in the 2026 municipal election will include both online and in-person options. Online voting is scheduled from October 10 to October 23, with in-person voting available on select advance dates as well as on Election Day, October 26. Residents looking for more details are encouraged to visit the Town’s local news page for additional information.

The Town of Newmarket has launched a redesigned website, still available at newmarket.ca, with a cleaner look and easier navigation for residents, businesses, and visitors. The update is part of the Town’s efforts to make it simpler for people to find information and access services online.

Mayor John Taylor says the new site is more user-friendly, with better accessibility and improved use on mobile devices. It also includes helpful features like interactive maps and online application tools, making it easier for people to connect with Town services.

The website was created with Canadian company UpanUp as part of Newmarket’s digital strategy. Town officials say they will continue to update the site over time, using feedback from the community to make further improvements.

Jennifer Anderson from the Georgina Chamber of Commerce stopped by the studio to speak with Dan Pollard about the upcoming Discover Georgina Show, an event aimed at connecting residents with local businesses and services. Anderson explained that while many attendees may not arrive with a specific purchase in mind, the event is designed to spark curiosity and introduce people to what the community has to offer.

“Well, that’s the marketing trick,” Anderson said. “Because a lot of people may not necessarily need something right now, but the motivation to walk through those doors should be to discover Georgina, to find out what there is to offer in this community.” She added that the show encourages residents to think about shopping local when needs arise, helping support neighbors, friends, and small businesses throughout the area.

The Discover Georgina Show takes place this weekend, with Dan Pollard broadcasting live on location. Stop by the K-Country booth to say hello and learn more about the wide range of products and services available right in their own community.

York Regional Police are appealing for witnesses following a fatal single-vehicle crash in East Gwillimbury early Sunday morning. The collision happened around 12:30 a.m. near Doane Road and Leslie Street.

Police say a vehicle carrying five teenagers left the roadway and entered a pond. One teen was pronounced dead, while the four others were taken to hospital with serious but stable injuries.

Investigators are asking anyone who may have seen the incident or has dashcam footage from the area to come forward. The investigation remains ongoing as officers work to determine the cause of the crash.

Nominations for Newmarket’s 2026 municipal election open May 1, giving prospective candidates the opportunity to enter the race for key local positions. The filing deadline is set for August 21 at 2 p.m., after which the final list of candidates will be confirmed.

Voters will head to the polls in October to choose a mayor, deputy mayor, ward councillors, and school board trustees. These elected officials will play an important role in shaping decisions on local services, future growth, and broader community priorities.

Online voting will take place from October 17 to 26. Residents are encouraged to confirm their voter information and ensure their school board designation is up to date ahead of the voting period to avoid any issues.

The Town of East Gwillimbury has been selected as the future site of a new health care facility within the Southlake Regional Health Centre system, marking a significant step forward for local services. The development is expected to support the community’s growing population and improve access to care.

Ward Councillor Scott Crone described the project as a “transformative milestone,” pointing to both better health care access and anticipated economic benefits. The new facility is expected to play a key role in meeting rising demand across the region.

Further details about the project are expected in the coming months. Officials say the achievement reflects years of collaboration between council, staff, landowners, and residents to bring the development to the community.

Longtime councillor Wendy Gaertner has announced she will not seek re-election in Aurora’s upcoming municipal vote. First elected in 2004, Gaertner is the longest continually serving member of council and said her time in office has been both challenging and rewarding.

Gaertner pointed to ongoing concerns about council decision-making, including the impact of strong mayor powers, as factors in her decision. She said the role has required balancing community needs with complex governance changes over the years.

Her departure comes as the 2026 municipal election approaches, with several candidates already declaring their intention to run for council seats. The race is expected to bring new faces and perspectives to Aurora’s council.

Council in Newmarket has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity and public safety, passing a resolution aimed at addressing rising antisemitic incidents. The move calls for coordinated action across all levels of government to help protect residents and promote a more inclusive community.

During the meeting, council also reviewed several ongoing initiatives. Officials noted the success of the town’s Community Safety Camera Program in reducing speeding near schools, although the program ended earlier than expected due to changes in provincial legislation. Council also discussed employment land use as part of efforts to support long-term economic growth.

Additional updates highlighted progress on accessibility improvements across the town. Council also pointed to strong community engagement at the local library, reporting that hundreds of thousands of items were borrowed in 2025, reflecting continued demand for public services and programs.

An environmental group is raising concerns about the health of Lake Simcoe, saying the lake is facing warmer water, higher salt levels, and more harmful algae blooms. The Rescue Lake Simcoe Coalition warns these changes could affect wildlife, water quality, and how people use the lake.

To help address these issues, the group is working with the Town of Georgina to launch the “Love Your Lake” program. The year-long program encourages residents to take simple steps like planting trees and reducing runoff, while also taking part in community events planned for the summer.

Georgina Mayor Margaret Quirk says the program supports the town’s Climate Action Plan. She says small actions by residents can make a difference in protecting the lake and keeping the community strong.

Spring has officially arrived in Georgina as runners lace up for the annual Spring Fling Marathon, a popular early-season race that draws participants from across Ontario. Known for its flat, fast and scenic course along the lakeshore, the event has become a favourite for both seasoned marathoners and first-time runners eager to kick off the racing calendar.

The marathon is also a certified Boston Marathon qualifier, making it especially attractive to competitive runners looking to post a strong time. Athletes travel from across the province to take advantage of the course’s reputation for speed, while spectators line the route to cheer them on and celebrate the return of outdoor events after the winter months.

Organizers say volunteers are still urgently needed to help make the event a success, from course marshals to water station crews. Anyone interested in helping out can sign up online through Endurance Event Productions or find more details through K Country 93.7.

The Town of Georgina is marking Earth Day with the return of its annual tree giveaway, offering residents a chance to pick up free trees on Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the ROC. Now in its third year, the initiative is supported through a partnership with Canadian Trees for Life and Beech Nurseries, aiming to encourage greener communities and expand the local tree canopy.

This year, 1,000 trees will be available in two-gallon pots, including Red Maple, Canadian Serviceberry and White Pine. Georgina residents can receive up to two trees per vehicle, though specific species requests cannot be guaranteed. The giveaway will operate on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.

For the first time, advance registration is required. Residents must sign up online through the GeorginaGrows program, providing contact information and consenting to follow-up about the health of their trees to help monitor the program’s success. Participants are also encouraged to take part in the #GeorginaGrows contest by sharing photos of their planted trees on social media for a chance to win one of three $50 gift cards to a nursery of their choice.

A Grade 5 student has been named York Regional Police Chief for a Day after winning the organization’s annual essay contest. Ella Beckett spent the day touring specialized units and learning how officers and staff work to keep the community safe.

During her visit, she observed a variety of police operations and got a behind-the-scenes look at how the department handles different types of calls. Officers say it was a chance to inspire young people and give them a better understanding of law enforcement.

Ella is scheduled to share her experience and ideas at an upcoming Police Appreciation Night next month. Community members are invited to hear her perspective and celebrate the work of local officers.

Georgina Mayor Margaret Quirk is congratulating the Georgina Riptide Sharks U14 girls volleyball team after their gold-medal performance at the Ontario Volleyball Association Provincials. The mayor praised the team’s hard work and dedication, noting their achievement as a proud moment for the local community.

The Sharks secured first place in their division after competing against 32 teams over three days of play. Coaches and supporters say the team showed strong teamwork and resilience throughout the tournament, helping them rise to the top in a highly competitive field.

Following their provincial win, the team will now travel to Ottawa to compete in the national championships. The upcoming event will see them face top teams from across the country as they look to build on their recent success.

A 43-year-old East Gwillimbury man has been charged following a human trafficking investigation by York Regional Police. Police say the investigation began after a victim came forward with allegations of long-term abuse.

According to investigators, the victim reported being trafficked, sexually assaulted, and exploited between 2012 and 2019 in Vaughan and other locations across Ontario. Authorities say the allegations span several years and involve multiple incidents, prompting a detailed and ongoing investigation.

Police believe there may be additional victims and are urging anyone with information to contact them. Investigators say support services are available for those affected, and they emphasize that all tips will be handled with care as the case moves forward.

Georgian College says more than 600 students received a combined $1.7 million in donor-funded scholarships, awards, and bursaries over the past academic year. The funding is aimed at reducing financial barriers and helping students focus on their studies.

The impact of this support was highlighted during recent “Gather and Grow” events, where students met with donors to share their experiences. The events offered a chance to connect directly and demonstrate how financial assistance is making a difference in academic journeys and overall student success.

College president Kevin Weaver said the funding is part of a broader financial aid program that provides nearly $7 million each year. He noted the initiative is designed to improve access to education and give students the support they need to achieve their goals.

The Town of Newmarket has announced that the Northwest Quadrant Woodlot has been added to the Canadian Protected and Conserved Areas Database. The designation was made in partnership with Ontario Nature and represents a local contribution toward 30×30 conservation goal, which aims to protect 30 per cent of land and water by 2030.

Newmarket Mayor John Taylor said the recognition underscores the importance of environmental action at the municipal level, particularly during Earth Month. He noted that protecting natural spaces like the woodlot helps preserve biodiversity while engaging the community in sustainability efforts.

The protected area features ecologically significant wetlands and habitats that support at-risk species such as the monarch butterfly and snapping turtle. Throughout April, the Town continues to host community initiatives including cleanups and recycling drives, encouraging residents to take part in local environmental stewardship.

The Town of Georgina has once again been recognized for its financial planning, receiving the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its 2026 budget. This marks the third consecutive year the municipality has earned the honour, highlighting a continued focus on clear and effective budgeting.

Mayor Margaret Quirk said the award reflects the Town’s commitment to transparency and high standards in financial management. She noted that consistent recognition demonstrates the municipality’s effort to ensure residents can easily understand how public funds are allocated and managed.

The award is presented by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), which recognizes municipalities that meet rigorous criteria for budget presentation and best practices. The distinction is given to governments that succeed in making their financial documents both comprehensive and accessible to the public.

The Town of Georgina is partnering with East Gwillimbury to host a free information session for residents interested in running in the 2026 municipal election. The session will take place tomorrow and is open to anyone considering entering local politics.

Led on behalf of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the session will explain how to become a candidate or register as a third-party advertiser. Residents can attend either in person or online.

Nominations for the 2026 election open May 1 and close Aug. 21. Voting day is scheduled for Oct. 26, 2026.

The Town of East Gwillimbury will mark its first official Red Dress Day on May 5 with a flag raising and public art installation at the Health and Active Living Plaza. The day is meant to raise awareness and bring the community together in a moment of reflection.

The installation, titled “Whispering Spirits,” was created by the Town’s Truth and Reconciliation Working Group. It features a guided indoor boardwalk experience with reflective stations. The exhibit will open with a ceremony led by the Indigenous Action Committee.

Residents can visit the drop-in exhibit from 1 to 6 p.m. Organizers say the event is part of the Town’s ongoing efforts to support inclusion and reconciliation, and they encourage community members to take part.

The Dare to Rise Foundation will celebrate its one-year anniversary with an Impact Reception on April 30 at the Royal Rose Art Gallery. The event will bring together community members for an evening focused on storytelling and social impact.

Founded by Absane Ibrahim, the women-led nonprofit supports single mothers, youth and families in crisis. Its programs focus on emergency aid, mentorship and helping families build long-term stability.

Organizers say all proceeds from the event will go directly toward expanding services as the foundation enters its next phase of growth. Community members are invited to attend and learn more about the foundation’s work.

Bradford West Gwillimbury Fire and Emergency Services and South Simcoe Police Service will host a free community open house on May 14 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Bradford Fire Station 1. The event marks both Emergency Preparedness Week and National Police Week.

The open house will feature demonstrations, interactive displays, and opportunities for residents to meet local first responders and community partners. Organizers say the event is designed to promote safety awareness and community engagement.

Residents are encouraged to attend and bring a non-perishable food donation in support of the Bradford Helping Hand Foodbank.

The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority says water levels on Lake Simcoe remain significantly above average at 219.41 metres, with shoreline flooding already occurring or expected in some areas. Officials say recent rainfall and rising water levels are contributing to the risk.

Strong winds are also increasing wave activity, heightening the potential for flooding in low-lying communities including Innisfil, Georgina, Barrie, and Orillia. Residents in these areas are being urged to remain cautious.

A high-risk shoreline hazard remains in effect until May 4, with officials warning of possible dike failures and evacuations. Residents are advised to take precautions and stay updated as conditions continue to change.

The Town of Georgina is celebrating Earth Day with a free tree giveaway on April 25 at the Recreational Outdoor Campus (ROC). The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with 1,000 trees available to residents on a first-come, first-served basis.

Residents must register online starting April 22 to participate. Each vehicle can receive up to two trees, with available species including Red Maple, Canadian Serviceberry, and White Pine.

The program is supported by Canadian Trees for Life and also features a social media contest. Participants are encouraged to share photos of their planted trees for a chance to win gift cards.

A Red Dress Day walking vigil will take place May 5 in Aurora to mark the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People. Organizers say the event is meant to raise awareness and bring the community together in support.

The vigil will begin at Aurora Town Square and include a guided walk to Aurora Town Park. A closing ceremony will follow, led by Anishinaabe Traditional Grandmother Kim Wheatley.

Organizers say the event offers a chance to honour victims, support families, and stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities. Residents are encouraged to take part and show their support.

The Town of Georgina’s Pitch-in Community Clean-up Week is now underway and runs until April 26. Residents are encouraged to help clean up local parks, trails, beaches, and green spaces as part of the annual effort.

Participants can register for a free clean-up kit through the Town and pick it up at the Civic Centre or any Georgina Public Library branch. High school students can also take part and earn volunteer hours while helping out in the community.

Town officials ask volunteers to make sure garbage is properly disposed of after their clean-up. Residents are also invited to share their efforts on social media using the hashtag #CleanupGeorgina.

With water levels already high and additional rainfall in the forecast, the Town is making sand and sandbags available to help residents protect their properties from potential flooding. Officials say saturated ground conditions mean even moderate rainfall could lead to localized impacts, prompting proactive measures to support homeowners.

Sand and empty sandbags are being provided at several locations across the community, including West Park Heights cul-de-sac, the northwest corner of the Stephen Leacock Theatre, the southeast parking lot of the Pefferlaw Lions Hall, and the east parking lot of the ROC, which became available as of 7 p.m. Friday, April 17. Residents are asked to bring their own shovels to fill sandbags at these sites.

Town officials say they will continue to closely monitor weather and water conditions in the coming days. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions as the situation evolves, with updates available through the Town’s official channels.

Environment officials are warning of rainfall expected throughout the region today, with the ground already near saturation and limited capacity to absorb additional moisture. Rainfall totals are forecast between 10 and 20 millimetres from this morning through the afternoon, increasing the risk of localized flooding in vulnerable areas.

A cold front moving through the region will bring steady showers and the possibility of a thunderstorm. The warning comes after several days of significant rainfall, leaving soil conditions unable to effectively handle further precipitation. As a result, even moderate rainfall could lead to noticeable impacts on roads, drainage systems, and low-lying areas.

Residents are being advised to use caution, as water may pool on roadways and collect in ditches and depressions. Drivers are urged not to travel through flooded roads, while the public is encouraged to avoid low-lying areas where water levels may rise quickly. For the latest updates on flooding conditions, residents should consult their local Conservation Authority or the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, or visit Ontario.ca/floods.

Trees for Life is launching a large tree planting campaign during Earth Week, with more than 9,500 trees and 17,000 native plants set to be planted across Canada. The effort aims to add more green space to urban areas and support healthier, more sustainable communities.

In Aurora, 750 trees and 250 shrubs will be planted at Stewart Burnett Park on May 2. The local event is expected to draw volunteers and community members who want to help improve the park and take part in a hands-on environmental project.

Organizers say planting more trees can help clean the air, lower temperatures in built-up areas, and make communities more resilient to climate change. They are encouraging residents to get involved and support the effort.

Aurora council is reviewing proposed updates to its election sign bylaw aimed at better aligning with regional standards and the town’s ward system. The changes would limit where signs can be placed, allowing them only at designated intersections, and would require candidates to keep their signs within their own wards.

The proposal also includes new rules around the size, materials, and placement of election signs. Town staff say the updates are intended to improve safety, reduce clutter, and create a more consistent approach across the municipality during election periods.

However, some councillors raised concerns about the potential impact on candidates, particularly the cost of a proposed $310 fee. They warned it could create barriers for those running for office. Council has voted to send the proposal back to staff for further review before making a final decision.

The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority says water levels in Lake Simcoe are well above normal, now at 219.28 metres. Flooding is already happening in some shoreline areas, and more is expected. People living near the lake are being asked to stay alert as conditions continue to change.

Recent heavy rain and more rain expected through Friday are causing water levels to rise further. Strong winds may also push water toward the shore, increasing the risk of flooding in places like Jackson’s Point, Georgina, and Ramara. There are also concerns that dikes in nearby low-lying areas could fail if the pressure continues to build.

Officials are urging residents to take simple precautions, such as staying away from the water, protecting their property, and being ready to leave if needed. The shoreline hazard watch will remain in place until April 29 while the situation is closely monitored.

Residents of East Gwillimbury are being invited to take part in an upcoming open house to help shape the future of a key local site. The event will take place on April 23 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Civic Centre, where community members can share their ideas and feedback.

The project aims to transform the area into a vibrant community space. Early concepts include features such as event areas, gardens, and the potential for shops or housing. Town officials say the goal is to create a space that meets the needs of residents while supporting future growth.

The project will be funded through development charges, with public input playing an important role in shaping the final design. Plans are expected to be finalized by 2027, with feedback from the open house helping guide the next steps.

The Town of Newmarket has officially unveiled a new community brand designed to reflect the identity and values of the people who live and work there. The launch event, held at the NewRoads Performing Arts Centre, brought together local businesses, residents and community leaders to celebrate what officials describe as a bold and caring expression of place. Built around the message “Together, we turn care into courage and courage into community,” the brand aims to highlight Newmarket as a connected and supportive community.

Mayor John Taylor says the initiative goes beyond a new logo, focusing instead on strengthening how the town tells its story and positions itself for the future. The open-source brand—known as nmrkt.—was developed following extensive consultation, including feedback from more than 750 residents and 500 people across the Greater Toronto Area. Officials say the goal is to attract businesses, investment and talent, while reinforcing a sense of pride among residents.

As part of the launch, Newmarket partnered with local businesses and artists to create limited-edition products inspired by the brand’s core values: Rooted, Open, Community, Bold and Original. The town says the brand will be freely available to approved organizations and creators, allowing them to incorporate it into their own storytelling and initiatives. Officials add the new branding effort will support economic development while showcasing what makes Newmarket distinct.

Up to 50 millimetres of rain is expected across the Lake Simcoe watershed over the next five days, raising concerns about localized flooding and dangerous water conditions.

Officials say that while most of the snowpack has melted, the ground remains saturated and partially frozen. This will limit absorption and lead to increased runoff into rivers, streams, and other waterways. While widespread flooding is not anticipated, low-lying areas may experience flooding.

Water levels and flow rates are expected to rise above normal, creating hazardous conditions—particularly near culverts and bridges. Residents are being urged to keep children and pets well away from all watercourses. This flood outlook remains in effect until noon on April 16th.

Meanwhile, a high-risk shoreline hazard watch has also been issued for Lake Simcoe. Water levels are already above average and continue to rise, currently sitting at 219.19 metres.

Strong southwest winds, with gusts reaching up to 59 kilometres per hour, could increase the risk of storm surges—especially along the lake’s northeast shoreline.

Shoreline flooding has already been reported in areas including Jackson’s Point and Ramara. There are also concerns about possible dike failures in the Keswick, Kolbar, and Bradford polders, along with localized surge effects.

Officials warn that water levels are expected to continue rising in the coming days, and extreme caution is advised near all shorelines and waterways.

The shoreline hazard watch remains in effect until April 24th or until further updates are issued.

Environment Canada has issued a rainfall warning for the region, with 20 to 40 millimetres of rain expected from Saturday afternoon into Sunday morning. The weather system, described as a Colorado low, is forecast to bring steady rainfall beginning later today, with the heaviest downpours anticipated this evening and overnight. Forecasters note there is a high level of confidence in the system, with a moderate overall impact expected.

Officials warn that saturated ground from recent rainfall may have limited ability to absorb additional moisture, increasing the risk of localized flooding. Water pooling on roads and in low-lying areas is likely, and visibility could be suddenly reduced during heavier bursts of rain, particularly if thunderstorms develop.

Residents are being advised to avoid low-lying areas and remain cautious around rivers, creeks, and culverts, where washouts may occur. Authorities are also urging the public to stay up to date with forecasts and alerts from Environment Canada and to consult provincial flood information resources as conditions evolve.

A 31-year-old man has been sentenced to nine years in custody following a police-involved shooting that began in Markham and ended in Toronto in July 2025. The sentence was handed down by the Ontario Court of Justice in Newmarket after the man was found guilty of multiple serious firearm and assault-related offences.

York Regional Police say the incident unfolded on July 17, 2025, when officers attempted to stop a stolen vehicle near Kennedy Road and Steeles Avenue East in Markham. The driver refused to stop and attempted to flee, ramming police vehicles before being boxed in a short time later near Kennedy Road and Bonis Avenue in Toronto. During the confrontation, the suspect fired a gun at officers, prompting one officer to return fire and strike him. He was taken into custody and transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

On March 27, 2026, Kuot Akol was convicted of several charges, including aggravated assault of a peace officer and discharging a firearm with intent. The court heard Akol had been on bail with GPS monitoring for prior firearm offences when he removed the device and fled ahead of a scheduled court appearance in early 2025. He had already been sentenced in absentia to eight years for those offences. The new nine-year sentence will be served consecutively, bringing his total time in custody to 17 years. York Regional Police Chief Jim MacSween said the case highlights the ongoing risks officers face and the serious threat posed by repeat offenders carrying illegal firearms.

York Region is offering condolences following the death of Stephen Lewis, who passed away March 31 at the age of 88. Leaders across the region are recognizing his long career in public service and his impact both in Canada and internationally.

Lewis was widely known for his decades of leadership, including serving as head of the Ontario New Democratic Partyand as Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations. In these roles, he became a strong voice for human rights, social justice, and global equality.

He is also remembered for his advocacy work through the Stephen Lewis Foundation, where he focused on fighting HIV/AIDS in Africa and supporting affected communities. His legacy continues to be felt through the many initiatives and lives he influenced over the years.

York Regional Police say residents may notice an increased police presence across York Region as the community observes Passover. The temporary increase is part of efforts to help ensure public safety during the holiday period.

Officers will be carrying out proactive patrols and setting up command posts near places of worship, community centres, and neighbourhood gathering spaces. Police say these measures are intended to provide reassurance and respond quickly to any potential concerns.

Police add they are working closely with community partners to help prevent hate-motivated incidents. Residents are being encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings and report anything suspicious or concerning to authorities right away.

Margaret Quirk, mayor of Georgina, joined municipal leaders from northern York Region and Bradford West Gwillimbury at the first Southlake Distributed Health Network Forum. The meeting focused on improving health care services for residents across the region.

The forum, held with support from Southlake Health, gave leaders a chance to talk about working together to bring more services closer to home. With communities continuing to grow, participants discussed the need for better access to care without long travel times.

Mayor Quirk thanked the Southlake Health team for their ongoing work to support patients. She said working together across communities will help make sure residents can get the care they need, closer to where they live.