Tag Archives: Community Engagement

Q&A with Rideau Lakes by-election candidate: Jordan DeLong

Jordan DeLong is one of four candidates running in the June 26 by-election to represent South Crosby Ward on Rideau Lakes council. Photo credit: Submitted.
1 Reply
LAURIE WEIR

Residents in South Crosby Ward of Rideau Lakes Township will head to the polls June 26 to choose a new representative. The seat was left vacant on March 4 when second-term councillor Joan Delaney resigned from the position. 

Four candidates have filed their nomination papers, including Dustin Bulloch, Jonathan Carr, Jordan DeLong and Rob Hennessy.

Each candidate was sent a set of identical questions to help voters better understand their priorities, positions and motivations for seeking office. Jordan DeLong is the final candidate to respond. His answers are presented here.

1. Why are you running for council?

I am running for council to create more activities for youth, to bring more young families to the area and to be a voice for the entire community; as everyone that lives here has an equal say in what goes on.

2. What is the top issue facing South Crosby, and how would you address it?

We are lacking in providing youth activities, which I have been working and coordinating ideas with local residents and educators on how to address this. 

Parking around South Crosby Public School is an issue, I see this daily taking my children to and from school and I would work with the community and the Public Works Department to come up with a solution that suits everyone.

3. What would be your first priority if elected?

Assisting in getting the new Youth Committee off the ground and running. I am also currently working on a youth project with key community members, members of Elgin CEC and members of council.

4. How would you improve communication and trust between council and residents?

I would strive to be an active and open listener and take concerns from the community to council. I would be their voice at the table. Transparency, communication and being an open mind to new ideas bridges trust.

5. What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I live in South Crosby Ward 3, in Elgin, and I have been taking action already in my community as a volunteer. During my time volunteering I have listened to the concerns of others and taken action to find solutions. For example, assisting at the outdoor rink to obtain new hoses for flooding and a snowblower to ensure the rink is clean and accessible.

6. a) Council has been criticized for dysfunction and division. How would you help restore trust and stability?

I would encourage council members to listen to each other with open minds and try to get council to a common ground again.

b) Do you support or oppose the mayor’s use of strong mayor powers under provincial legislation?

I oppose the use of the strong mayor powers. I feel this is an attack on our democracy and has no place in small rural communities like ours. We need diverse ideas and voices, not just the voice of one.

Q&A with Rideau Lakes by-election South Crosby candidate, Jonathan Carr

Jonathan Carr. Photo credit: Submitted.
LAURIE WEIR

Residents in South Crosby Ward will head to the polls June 26 to choose a new representative on Rideau Lakes Township council.

Four candidates have filed their nomination papers: Dustin Bulloch, Jonathan Carr, Jordan DeLong, and Rob Hennessy.

Each candidate was sent a set of identical questions to help voters better understand their priorities, positions and motivations for seeking office. Today, we hear from Jonathan Carr. His responses are presented here, unedited for meaning but edited for clarity and style.

1. Why are you running for council?

As a 36-year-old father of five, I understand the importance of building a strong, thriving community that supports families and future generations. Running for council is not just about governance, it’s about ensuring that South Crosby and the greater Rideau Lakes region remain places where trust, confidence and opportunity flourish.

This is a great opportunity to bring fresh ideas and new perspectives to council — ones that reflect the real concerns and aspirations of the people who live here. I want to re-establish trust in local leadership by being accessible, transparent, and truly listening to the voices of our residents.

2. What is the top issue facing South Crosby, and how would you address it?

Rideau Lakes is at a pivotal moment. As our township continues to grow, we’re facing a number of challenges that require careful planning and leadership. One of the most pressing issues, in my view, is the increasing demand on public works and infrastructure. We need to ensure that growth enhances, not overwhelms, our community.

We must be proactive in maintaining and improving roads, utilities and essential services to meet the needs of both new and long-time residents. That means strategic investment and a commitment to development that respects the rural character and natural beauty of our area.

Beyond infrastructure, it’s critical that everyone, whether they’ve lived here for generations or just arrived, feels heard and represented at the council table. Open communication and shared decision-making are essential to moving forward together.

3. What would be your first priority if elected?

My first priority would be to ensure that every resident of South Crosby feels heard, represented and connected. I want people to know they have someone in their corner; someone who will advocate for their concerns and bring their voice to council.

4. How would you improve communication and trust between council and residents?

It starts with accessibility and simplicity. My goal is to make it easy for people to connect, to ask questions, raise concerns and stay informed. That could mean email, text or even direct messages on Facebook. I want people to know they can reach me and expect a genuine response.

Beyond that, I’d focus on creating an ongoing dialogue, not just during council meetings, but in day-to-day interactions. Transparency, responsiveness and approachability are key to rebuilding trust and making residents feel confident that they’re being represented.

5. What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I bring a fresh perspective, strong financial awareness and a deep commitment to accountability. I have hands-on experience in construction and budgeting, which gives me a grounded understanding of the real cost of infrastructure decisions.

Too often, we see perfectly salvageable buildings torn down and replaced at enormous cost, when revitalization could have saved taxpayers millions. I believe in smart, long-term planning that respects taxpayer dollars and puts the community’s needs first.

6a. Council has been criticized for dysfunction and division. How would you help restore trust and stability?

There’s no denying that council has faced criticism for dysfunction and division. I believe the path to restoring trust lies in a collaborative, forward-thinking approach. I’ve worked with many teams, and I understand the difference between groups that build and groups that break down.

I would bring a focus on respectful, productive dialogue and transparent decision-making that serves the whole community. Strong leadership isn’t about wielding power, it’s about uniting people and building consensus.

6b. Do you support or oppose the mayor’s use of strong mayor powers under provincial legislation?

In principle, I believe the mayor should never need to rely on strong mayor powers to pass legislation. Council should be able to work together and reach decisions that reflect the will of the people.

These powers were introduced by the province to address the housing affordability crisis. In my view, they should be reserved for that purpose only. Using them outside of that scope risks deepening divisions and further weakening public trust.

We need to move forward with accountability, cooperation and a shared focus on what’s best for Rideau Lakes. I take this responsibility seriously, and I encourage residents to reach out, by email, text or Facebook message, so we can build a stronger, more connected future together.

Have your say: Smiths Falls seeks public input on Lower Reach Park redesign

A look at the possible redesign of Lower Reach Park
Photo credit: Screengrab.
SUBMITTED

The Town of Smiths Falls is inviting residents to have their say on the future of Lower Reach Park through a second public survey.

As part of a re-visioning exercise, a Concept Plan has been developed following months of study, public engagement, and stakeholder consultations. The plan aims to ensure the park meets community recreation needs while guiding future investments.Residents can complete the survey online in about five minutes or submit a hard copy to Community Services Coordinator Tana Torch at Town Hall. Submissions will be accepted until Feb. 27, 2025.

Mississippi Mills Jan. 28 council highlights

Ginawaydaganuc Village
Photo credit: ginawaydaganuc.ca
SUBMITTED

Jan. 29th, council meeting began with the Annual Land Acknowledgement and Smudging Ceremony. Since 2020, Mississippi Mills Council has held this ceremony at the start of each year to reestablish relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in the community. (Please watch for separate media release with more details.)

Council heard a delegation from RoxAnne Darling, Community Engagement Officer with Ginawaydaganuc Village, on their governance model, funding and future development plans for the Indigenous-led eco-cultural education center and tourist destination. Council directed staff to write a letter of support for Ginawaydaganuc Village to assist with funding opportunities. View the presentation here.

Rob and Cassie More with the Rural FASD Support Network also made a delegation to Council. They provided insight into the non-profit organization, which raises awareness and supports those living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and their caregivers. They also provided information on how FASD can impact communication and readability on websites. Council directed staff to review the accessibility and readability of documents on the municipal website. View the presentation here.

Council formally adopted the capital portion of the 2025 Municipal Budget. The capital budget includes $12,807,589 in projects, such as $2.7 million for hardsurfaced renewals and microsurfacing projects, $1.95 million for the County Road 29 Watermain construction, $435,000 for a new plow truck, as well as $421,000 for upgrades to parks and recreation facilities and $30,000 dedicated to climate change initiatives and traffic calming measures. The operations budget will come before the February 11 Council meeting for consideration. 

The financial planning timeline for four master planning projects to be completed as part of the MM2048 initiative this year were approved by Council. The projects include an updated Asset Management Plan, Development Charges Background Study (updates to 2023 study), Water and Wastewater Rate Study and Long-Term Financial Plan. 

Council endorsed the updated Terms of Reference for the Lanark County OPP Detachment Board and its draft 2025 budget. The following community representative appointments were also approved by Council – Michel Vermette and Rod Bowes.

Committee of the Whole also heard the following items, which will be brought forward for approval at a future Council meeting:

  • Consideration of a report to determine the optimal option for employee benefits.
  • The Community Benefits Agreement for the Battery Energy Storage System at 6299 County Road 29.
  • Recommendation reports for 6299 County Road 29 and 3020 Ramsay Concession 11B.
  • Revisions to the Traffic and Parking By-law.
  • A report on the Mid-Term Governance Review, which will update policies and existing by-laws, including the Procedural By-law and Communications Plan.
  • A review of the Elected Official Remuneration Policy with staff direction to investigate the option of a full-time Mayor.
  • Quarterly Reports from Corporate Services and Recreation and Culture. 

Upcoming Meetings:

  • Hybrid Council Meeting – February 11, 2025, 6 p.m. Committee of the Whole meeting to follow Council.
  • Hybrid Council Meeting – February 25, 2025, 6 p.m. Committee of the Whole meeting to follow Council.

Calling all community voices: Join the Hometown News advisory committee

At Hometown News, we’ve always believed that the best stories come from the heart of the community. Now, we’re inviting you to help shape the stories we tell by joining our newly formed advisory committee.

As an advisory committee member, you’ll play a key role in identifying important local issues, providing feedback on stories that matter, and ensuring Hometown News reflects the voices and values of our readers.

What’s the Role of the Advisory Committee?

The board will meet quarterly to:

  • Share insights and ideas for story topics.
  • Offer feedback on our print and digital content.
  • Ensure our reporting remains fair, accurate, and locally relevant.
  • Act as ambassadors for the community, connecting us with new ideas and voices.

Whether you’re a business owner, teacher, artist, or long-time resident, your unique perspective will make a difference. Previous experience in journalism is welcome, but not necessary. We are looking for people with a passion for your community and a desire to make it better.

Why Join?

This is your chance to ensure the stories that matter most to you and your neighbours are being told. By joining the Hometown News advisory committee, you’ll help us:

  • Spotlight local events, challenges, and triumphs.
  • Be part of the future of journalism – both in print and online.
  • Strengthen the bond between Hometown News and its readers.

How to Apply

Interested? Send us a brief bio that includes your connection to the community, your interests, and why you’d like to join. Applications can be sent to the publisher, Patricia Krotki at  pmkrotki@pdgmedia.ca 

The deadline for submissions is March 7, 2025.

Be Part of the Story

Hometown News is more than a newspaper; it’s a reflection of the people and places that make this region special. Help us keep it that way by joining our advisory committee. 

Together, we can ensure that the news we report is truly by the community, for the community.

Can Smiths Falls’ old foot tunnel become a local gem?

Old SF foot tunnel
An eyesore, or a really cool place? The old foot tunnel connecting Victoria and Lanark streets was the topic of conversation at the latest Municipal Heritage Committee meeting on Jan. 14. Photo credit: Laurie Weir.

Smiths Falls heritage committee to explore options for underground foot tunnel

LAURIE WEIR

The old foot tunnel in Smiths Falls is undergoing some scrutiny. 

The Municipal Heritage Committee (MHC) is exploring ways to revitalize the tunnel that runs beneath the train tracks, connecting Victoria Street to Lanark Street.

Jonathon Lee, a new member of the arts council and prospective MHC appointee, raised the issue during the committee’s regular meeting on Jan. 14.

“It’s filled with a lot of graffiti that says things like ‘I love you,’ and ‘Never give up,’ and ‘You are enough.’ There is a lot of really motivational graffiti in there … it’s just a bunch of people in there trying to help each other out,” Lee said.

The tunnel is located in Shawville, one of the first areas annexed by Smiths Falls before the railroad was built.

“It made living there very difficult, logistically,” Lee said, referring to living near the tracks. “This was a cohesive community that someone had a nice vision for. But it’s a bit of an island because there are train tracks running through it. There are no businesses over there, and it’s hard to get on the other side of the tracks.”

Lee suggested gathering input from residents near the tunnel to explore potential ideas for improvement.

“He said the area is beautiful and unique and ‘I think a whole lot could happen there. Where are you ever going to find infrastructure to build a foot tunnel? It’s pretty cool.’”

Lee noted the tunnel’s “neat acoustics,” suggesting it could be ideal for guitar performances or spoken word poetry.

“A Ninja Turtles mural? I don’t know,” he added.

MHC chair Dorothy Hudson asked how Lee would like to proceed. He proposed making Shawville a focus for the committee over the next year and starting with community consultations.

“If we make people love it, then all of a sudden it brings a source of pride,” Lee said. “Let’s not spend money – let’s just take a look.”

Hudson said the committee could explore the area’s historical significance as a starting point.

Committee member Klaas Van Der Meer expressed safety concerns.

“It’s always been known to me as a dangerous place to go. I’ve not walked through there … but there is a lot of graffiti, a lot of riffraff,” he said.

Van Der Meer agreed revitalizing the area could bring attention to it as a “cool place to go” and acknowledged the tunnel’s importance in the community’s past.

“It was a tunnel that served a great need for the community to get across the tracks,” he said. “You were taking your life in your hands trying to cross 12 tracks.”

Town councillor and committee member Dawn Quinn also acknowledged safety issues but supported looking into revitalization options.

“That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t look at it and see what we can do. Maybe we can get enough interest and turn it into something that people would be able to use and feel comfortable there,” she said. “One of the big problems is lighting … if we don’t look at it, nothing will ever happen.”

Van Der Meer suggested the committee consider the Brockville Railway Tunnel as a small-scale inspiration. Built in the 1850s, the 525-metre-long landmark beneath downtown Brockville features LED lighting and draws visitors with its blend of heritage and modern tourism appeal.

“Sometimes, for a lot of kids, it’s a lot safer outside than it is inside,” Lee said. “And that’s why we’re outside at night. That foot tunnel is underground and covered and it may be safe, which is a heck of a place to start from … make it a safe space to hang out.”

Lee said if folks who are using it are part of the plans – authentic ownership, “then let’s see if we can connect those two sides.”

The MHC agreed to explore the tunnel’s history further and revisit the discussion at a future meeting.

Two SFDCI students to join Smiths Falls council

Mayor Shawn Pankow shaking the hand of student councillor Ryker Smith.
Ryker Smith takes the oath of office on Jan. 6, overseen by Mayor Shawn Pankow as he joins the Town of Smiths Falls council as a student councillor. Photo credit: Submitted [Kerry Costello].
LAURIE WEIR

The Town of Smiths Falls welcomed two new student councillors to its council chambers on Jan. 6 during a regular meeting of council.

Mayor Shawn Pankow officially swore in Ryan Hooper and Ryker Smith, both Grade 12 students at Smiths Falls District Collegiate Institute (SFDCI). The pair will bring a youth perspective to municipal discussions, providing insight into the needs and priorities of the next generation.

Mayor Shawn Pankow shaking the hand of student councillor Ryan Hooper.
Ryan Hooper takes the oath of office on Jan. 6, overseen by Mayor Shawn Pankow as he joins the Town of Smiths Falls council as a student councillor. Photo credit: Submitted [Kerry Costello].

The student councillor program offers leadership development and aims to foster an appreciation for the democratic process. It also serves as a hands-on learning experience about the workings of local government and its impact on daily life.

“Wisdom grows at our next meeting,” Pankow quipped following the swearing-in ceremony.

Smith, an accomplished student, is co-president of the SFDCI student council and a member of the school’s track and soccer teams. He also represents his peers as part of the Student Senate. Hooper, who has a keen interest in politics at both the local and national levels, shares a passion for understanding the evolving needs of young Canadians.

“A youth having knowledge about the political world is a good bonus to understanding the wants and needs of the next generation of Canadians,” Pankow said. “We look forward to the two of you being student councillors here, participating and expressing yourselves fully. Don’t ever hold back. Let us know what you think. We want to get your perspective. It will help get us to the best decisions as well.”

Hooper and Smith will officially take their seats at the council table during the next meeting, scheduled for Monday, Jan. 13.

Montague Township celebrates milestones in infrastructure, community engagement, growth

Montague Township council and staff reflect on 2024
Montague Township council and staff reflect on 2024 and look forward to big plans in 2025. They are Coun. Trevor Johnson, Deputy Reeve Jeffrey Carroll, Reeve Karen Jennings, Allison Vereyken, Clerk-Administrator, Coun. Gerald Crabtree, and Coun. Jim Abbass. Photo credit: Submitted [Montague Township photo].
LAURIE WEIR

Montague Township wrapped up an eventful year in 2024 with numerous accomplishments across council, infrastructure, grants, and community engagement. 

Reeve Karen Jennings highlighted the year’s key achievements, which underscored the township’s commitment to transparency, growth, and community involvement.

She shared the news with this publication on Dec. 24. 

1. New councillor

Montague council welcomed Trevor Johnson as its newest member in April 2024, following the resignation of Morgan Kenny. Johnson brings fresh perspectives to the team as the township moves forward with ambitious projects.

2. Focus on transparency

The township increased its efforts to remain open and transparent by enhancing communication strategies. Community input was solicited through surveys and open houses for policies and strategies under review. These initiatives ensured that the township was prepared with shelf-ready projects for funding opportunities.

3. Major infrastructure projects

Montague undertook its largest capital project to date: the construction of a Municipal Fire and Public Works Complex. The new facility will provide long-term accommodations for Public Works and the Fire Department, addressing previous facility shortcomings and ensuring safe, appropriately-sized truck bays.

Additionally, work began on the Montague 22 Acre Park, funded through Parkland fees. Features include a sliding hill, walking trails (to be completed in 2025), beach volleyball courts, and a winter skating pad.

4. Grants and funding

The township secured significant grants to support various initiatives:

  • Enbridge Gas Grant ($10,000): Funded a new pump unit for the fire department’s side-by-side vehicle to assist with brush fires.
  • Emergency Management Ontario Grant ($47,284): Enabled the purchase and installation of a Generac generator at the township administration office.
  • Senior Community Grant ($19,600): Supported 55+ activities, including day trips, arts and crafts, and live entertainment.
  • Lanark County Waste Initiative ($11,500): Provided reusable “Chilly Moose” water bottles to students and teachers at Montague Public School, reducing single-use plastics.
  • Ontario Fire Grant ($8,230): Funded a gear washing machine for the fire department.
  • Dry Hydrant Grant ($12,000): Supported the purchase and installation of a new dry hydrant to improve community services.

5. Updated agreements and policies

The township achieved several policy updates and agreements:

  • Finalized a longstanding agreement on a soccer pitch built on school property, unresolved since 2010.
  • Updated the Zoning ByLaw and completed a new Official Plan.
  • Approved new building fees, the first update in 20 years.
  • Extended the waste collection and disposal agreement through 2030.
  • Updated the Asset Management Plan for 2024 requirements and advanced work on the 2025 Level of Service component.
  • Began work on the Master Fire Plan and a Road Needs Study.

6. Community Events

The Volunteer Recreation Committee continued to thrive, hosting popular events like Canada Day, Summer Fest, Mighty Machines, Easter Breakfast, Trivia Nights, Paint Nites, and Christmas celebrations. Collaboration with the Montague and District Seniors’ Forget Me Not Club facilitated day trips to the National Arts Centre, Kingston Penitentiary, Cirque du Soleil, and more, alongside chair yoga and arts and crafts nights.

7. Road improvements

Road projects included paving King Street and Matheson/Rideau, micro-surfacing various roads, installing new flashing radar signs for traffic calming, purchasing new equipment, and advancing projects like the Pinery Road and McGuire Road realignments. Work also commenced on a new Road Needs Study.

Looking ahead to 2025

The township has ambitious plans for 2025, including:

  • Completion of the Municipal Fire and Public Works Complex in the fall.
  • Continued development of the Montague 22 Acre Park.
  • Interior refresh of Rosedale (Centennial) Hall.
  • Further road projects and an updated Strategic Plan.
  • Completion of the 2025 Asset Management Plan and Road Needs Study.
  • Celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the Montague and District Seniors’ Forget Me Not Club.

Jennings hinted at additional plans yet to be announced, promising another exciting year for Montague Township.

Rideau Lakes adopts Vision for the Community of Lombardy

Township of Rideau Lakes, Lombardy.
Photo credit: Lombardy, Ontario Facebook page.
SUBMITTED

The final Community Vision for Lombardy was  adopted on Monday, December 2 at the regular meeting of Council.  

Rideau Lakes continues to foster efforts towards village vitality and engaged the community  of Lombardy to develop a Vision that will inform municipal plans and strategies for future  development. This includes the Community Improvement Plan for Villages, that allows the  municipality to establish grant programs to fund private property improvements and  initiatives through the Planning Act.  

In summer 2024, local consultant Jordan Hawn of Hawn Consulting was the successful  candidate selected by the Township to work with the Rideau Lakes Visioning Steering  Committee to conduct the community engagement process, to analyse the input received  and propose an actionable vision for the community of Lombardy. 

The Rideau Lakes Visioning Steering Committee that guided the project included  representatives from Rideau Lakes Council, the Lombardy Agricultural Society and Lombardy residents through the active Community Enhancement Committee. This group  helped to get the word out about the project through community meetings, posters and  handing out cards, while Township staff provided support in contacting residents of South  Elmsley by mail. In addition to in-person and virtual workshops, a survey was conducted to  gather feedback from both seasonal and permanent residents, business people and visitors.  

Mayor Arie Hoogenboom remarked, “Congratulations and thank you to all those who  participated in the input process. Lombardy has successfully communicated their vision as a  community, and the Township is now equipped with the information to address a number of  important priorities for growth. It is essential that we consider these items as we look to the  future.” 

Over the past several years, the Township has engaged with the villages in Rideau Lakes to  learn what residents value in their own community, and how they would like to see their  village in 2030. This important work will help the Rideau Lakes Economic Development  Committee as they endeavour to embark on village renewal plans for the communities of  Chaffeys Lock, Delta, Elgin, Lombardy, Newboro and Portland.  

The Village Vision reports will actively inform other municipal planning initiatives including,  but not limited to, the Community Improvement Plan for Villages, the Economic Development  Action Plan, the Recreation Master Plan, and the Rideau Lakes Strategic Plan. 

For more information, all Village Vision documents are available on the Township website: https://www.rideaulakes.ca/visionreports

My Broadcast Corporation purchases CJET-FM Smiths Falls

CJET
CJET was located on Beckwith Street in Smiths Falls. This is a photograph from the Heritage House Museum archives from 1962. Photo credit: Smiths Falls Heritage House Museum.
LAURIE WEIR

Big changes are happening in the local media scene as Smiths Falls radio station CJET-FM has been sold to MBC, the company behind myFM in Perth. The acquisition is part of MBC’s broader strategic growth initiative, which includes a focus on expanding its presence in both the Ottawa Valley and southwestern Ontario.

On Nov. 21, MBC announced they had entered into an agreement with Rogers Sports & Media to acquire radio stations CKOT-FM, CJDL-FM (Tillsonburg), and CJET-FM (Smiths Falls).

“This acquisition is part of MBC’s strategic growth initiative, solidifying its commitment to providing enhanced regional content and expanding its presence in both the Ottawa Valley and Southwestern Ontario,” said Jon Pole, president of MBC.

Pole went on to explain the significance of the acquisition. 

“The addition of these stations strengthens our regional coverage in both southwestern Ontario and the Ottawa Valley. CKOT-FM and CJDL-FM will fill a void between our St. Thomas and Simcoe operations,” he said, “and CJET-FM will make a perfect combo with 88.1 myFM in Perth.”

MBC sees the acquisition as an opportunity to broaden local content and news coverage. “We’re excited to continue to expand our local news coverage and community involvement in Smiths Falls and Tillsonburg. We appreciate that Rogers Sports & Media shared our vision for these markets and made this deal possible,” Pole said.

Bob Perreault, operations manager and news director at myFM in Perth, shared his excitement about the expansion, emphasizing the positive impact for the Smiths Falls community. “Personally, I’m very excited about this, and as a company, we’re excited too because it’s always fun when you get to work in your own backyard. It’s early days, but we’re looking forward to the growth that this expansion will bring.”

Perreault also spoke about the future of the station and local involvement, confirming that myFM already covers Smiths Falls news and will be able to provide even more coverage with this expansion. “We’re dedicated to serving these markets, and as we expand, we’re looking at how we can integrate more local talent,” he added.

CJET-FM has a long history in Smiths Falls, originally launching as an AM station on October 22, 1955. The station quickly became a staple of the community, offering music, news, and programming that reflected the local vibe. Over the years, CJET transitioned to FM under Rogers Sports & Media’s ownership, and it now enters a new chapter under MBC’s management.

“This acquisition will strengthen MBC’s position as a leading media provider in each region, adding significant value for listeners and advertisers by broadening the range of content, local news coverage, and expanding community involvement,” the company’s release states.

MBC, which currently operates 19 radio stations and digital news sites across Ontario, will see its portfolio grow to 26 stations following the approval of the acquisition by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC). The deal marks a significant step forward in MBC’s goal to become a dominant player in the regional media landscape.

As the transition takes place, Perreault emphasizes the importance of local engagement and community ties. “We’ve always focused on the smaller markets. We’re not trying to compete with the large cities. Our mentality has been to maintain close community ties, and that’s what we intend to do as we expand into Smiths Falls.”

The transaction is still subject to approval by the CRTC, with further details expected as the process moves forward.