We will no longer be supporting IE7 and below as a web browser effective June 1st 2020. Click here for more information.

Sign In
Simcoe County > Departments > Corporate Communications > Newsroom

Newsroom

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Corporate Communications Department works with the media to ensure information presented to the public is reliable and precise, while assisting internal departments to effectively communicate with the community. Following, please view recent news releases, advisories and public notices.

Members of the media who wish to be added to the County of Simcoe media distribution list are asked to email communications@simcoe.ca.

 

 

Thanksgiving 2023https://www.simcoe.ca/SolidWasteManagement/Pages/Thanksgiving-2023.aspx9/29/2023 6:10:37 PMThanksgiving 2023<p></p><span lang="EN-US"><span style="text-decoration-line:underline;">Waste Collections</span>:</span><font color="#000000" face="Times New Roman"></font><p><span lang="EN-US">There will be <strong>no change to your regular waste collection </strong>schedule. To ensure collection, have your materials to the curb by 7:00 AM on your normal collection day. </span></p><font color="#000000" face="Times New Roman"></font><p style="text-decoration-line:underline;"><span lang="EN-US">Waste Facility Hours:</span></p><ul><li><span lang="EN-US"><strong>Monday, October 9, 2023 (Thanksgiving​ D​​ay) </strong>- All County Waste Facilities will be <span style="text-decoration-line:underline;"><strong>CLOSED</strong></span> (with the exception of Matchedash<span style="text-decoration-line:underline;"><strong>​</strong>​</span>).​</span></li></ul><font color="#000000" face="Times New Roman"></font><p><span lang="EN-US">To receive direct notifications and view your collection schedule we encourage you to download free Simcoe County Collects app​:</span></p><p><span lang="EN-US"><span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-3"><strong><a title="get it on Google play" href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ca.simcoe.recollect.waste" target="_blank"><img src="/SolidWasteManagement/PublishingImages/google%20play.jpg" alt="" style="margin:5px;width:132px;height:39px;" /></a></strong></span> <a title="Download on the app store " href="https://itunes.apple.com/app/id1460808130" target="_blank" style="color:#000000;"><img src="/SolidWasteManagement/PublishingImages/NEW%20APP%20LOGO.jpg" alt="" style="margin:5px;width:134px;height:40px;" /></a></span></p><font color="#000000" face="Times New Roman"></font><font color="#000000" face="Times New Roman"></font><p><span lang="EN-US">For more information please contact Customer Service at <a>service@simcoe.ca</a> or call 1-800-263-3199.​</span></p><p>​​<br></p><p>​</p>
County of Simcoe and City of Orillia creating conditions for attainable housing across the regionhttps://www.simcoe.ca/CorporateCommunications/Pages/County-of-Simcoe-and-City-of-Orillia-creating-conditions-for-attainable-housing-across-the-region.aspx9/28/2023 7:53:45 PMCounty of Simcoe and City of Orillia creating conditions for attainable housing across the region<p></p><p><strong>Midhurst/September 28, 2023</strong> – The County of Simcoe and the City of Orillia are partnering to build up our communities through a new Housing Attainable Supply Action Plan (Housing ASAP). This plan will support residents in the “missing middle" who are looking for housing at a reasonable price in the communities that they love. </p><p>The Housing ASAP project will help the governments create the conditions needed for more attainable housing offered by the private market in communities throughout the region. It aims to identify and develop strategies and tactics for the regional and local governments to implement or advocate for over the next five years. </p><p style="text-align:justify;">This project will answer three fundamental questions related to attainable housing within Simcoe County and the City of Orillia:</p><ol><li><strong>What is Attainable</strong>?  In each sub-region of the County, what is the target sale price and target rent that is within reach of the working individual and family?</li><li><strong>What is Missing</strong>?  What are the number and types of dwellings that need to be integrated into each sub-region for the private sector to deliver market-based housing that is attainable?</li><li><strong>How can we Help</strong>?  What can municipalities do to help facilitate the attainable units that are needed?</li></ol><p>The project has been divided into four components:</p><ul><li><strong>Component 1</strong> - Gap Analysis, Background Review</li><li><strong>Component 2</strong> - Public and Stakeholder Engagement</li><li><strong>Component  3 </strong>- Best Practices & Potential Solutions Review</li><li><strong>Component 4</strong> - Recommended Action</li></ul><p>Information, including a Housing Needs Assessment, will be provided to Councils in Orillia and the County in the coming weeks. Details can be found in the City of Orillia's <a href="https://www.orillia.ca/en/city-hall/currentcouncilagendas.aspx">Council Information Package​</a> and on the <a href="https://simcoe.civicweb.net/Portal/">County of Simcoe's</a> Affordable Housing Advisory Committee agendas. The n​​ext step of the project will be to garner public and stakeholder input later this fall.<br></p><p><img src="/CorporateCommunications/PublishingImages/Pages/County-of-Simcoe-and-City-of-Orillia-creating-conditions-for-attainable-housing-across-the-region/Housing%20Continuum%20graphic.jpg" alt="Housing Continuum graphic.jpg" style="margin:5px 0px;" /><br>The housing continuum represents the spectrum of housing types available from very low to above moderate-income households. Housing ASAP focuses on the areas from "Affordable Rental Housing" to "Market Home Ownership" portion of the Housing Continuum. </p><p>Attainable Housing is sometimes referred to as the “missing middle". Attainable Housing is only a segment along the Housing Continuum. Attainable Housing is providing affordable rental and homeownership opportunities offered by the private market, as opposed to social housing, subsidized housing, transitional housing, emergency shelters, etc.</p><p>For more information on the Housing Supply Action Plan (Housing ASAP) and other local strategies for housing across Simcoe County, visit<span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-1-5"> </span><a href="/_layouts/15/FIXUPREDIRECT.ASPX?WebId=a41fbfa1-82ca-4939-9932-d97b8d6ad3e9&TermSetId=fb933945-005d-43ad-bb62-b84ef1fa9284&TermId=f32150be-1fc7-418a-83fc-b0e23506ede2"><strong class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-1-5">simcoe.ca/housing</strong></a><span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-1-5">. For information on the City of Orillia's plans for housing, visit </span><a href="https://www.orillia.ca/en/living-here/housing.aspx"><strong class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-1-5">orillia.ca/housing</strong></a><span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-1-5">.</span> </p><p><strong>Quotes</strong></p><p>“This plan is coming at a time that is critical to our communities across the region. Our residents know the cost of living is increasing at a rapid and uncomfortable pace and we want to assure them that the County and its partners are working together to ensure that they have the conditions needed to thrive in our communities. I am pleased that the City of Orillia has partnered with us on the Housing ASAP project and look forward to hearing real solutions that balance the growth of our communities with a price tag that ordinary people can afford."</p><p><em>~ Warden Basil Clarke, County of Simcoe</em></p><p>“Housing attainability is a significant concern in Orillia. We are taking actions to address this, including hiring a housing coordinator and working with our partners at the County of Simcoe to find strategies to reduce the price of rental units and the cost of housing. We look forward to receiving the recommendations from the Draft Housing Attainable Supply Action Plan once complete and continuing our partnership with the County and other levels of government to work together to create solutions for housing in our community."</p><p><em>~ Mayor Don McIsaac, City of Orillia</em></p><p><strong>About County of Simcoe</strong></p><p>County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at <strong>simcoe.ca</strong>.​<span style="font-size:1em;">​</span></p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>- 30 -</strong></p><p><strong>CONTACTS:</strong><br><span style="font-size:1em;">Collin Matanowitsch<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">Manager, Public Relations<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">705-734-8386 (mobile)<br></span><a href="mailto:Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca" style="font-size:1em;">Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca</a><strong style="font-size:1em;"> ​​</strong></p><p><span style="font-size:1em;">Melissa Gowanlock<br>Manager of Communications<br>City of Orillia, Corporate Communications Division<br>705-330-1951 (mobile)<br><a href="mailto:MAGowanlock@orillia.ca">MAGowanlock@orillia.ca</a></span></p>
Last Blast at the Simcoe County Museumhttps://www.simcoe.ca/CorporateCommunications/Pages/last-blast-at-the-simcoe-county-museum.aspx9/28/2023 5:56:36 PMLast Blast at the Simcoe County Museum<p></p><p><strong>Midhurst/September 28, 2023</strong> – The Simcoe County Museum and the Historical Construction Equipment Association (H.C.E.A) of Canada present <strong>Last Blast</strong> on Saturday, October 14, 2023 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. One of the Museum's most popular events, Last Blast brings to life vintage construction equipment, tractors, classic trucks, steam-powered rollers, shovels, road-building equipment, and much more with demonstrations for visitors of all ages. </p><p>Come out and watch Simcoe County artists print large woodblock prints. The printing blocks are too large for a conventional printing press so the museum's wood fired, steam powered roller will be used to make their impressions.<br></p><p>Visitors can stroll the Museum grounds, fuel up at our concession stand, or take a break and enjoy your own lunch at our covered picnic area.<br></p><p>Last Blast will be your last chance to catch the area's antique machines in action before the snow flies. Take advantage of the fall weather and make a pit stop at the Simcoe County Museum. Event rates apply for Last Blast: Museum Members and Preschoolers are free; Adults $10; Youth and Seniors $8; and Children are $5.<br> <br></p><table cellspacing="0" width="100%" class="ms-rteTable-default"><tbody><tr class="ms-rteTableEvenRow-default"><td class="ms-rteTableEvenCol-default" style="width:25%;"><strong>EVENT:</strong></td><td class="ms-rteTableOddCol-default" style="width:75%;"><strong>Last Blast</strong></td></tr><tr class="ms-rteTableOddRow-default"><td class="ms-rteTableEvenCol-default" style="width:25%;"><strong>Where</strong></td><td class="ms-rteTableOddCol-default" style="width:75%;"><p>Simcoe County Museum<br><span style="font-size:1em;">1151 Highwa</span><span style="font-size:1em;">y 26<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">Minesing, Ontario</span><span style="font-size:1em;">            </span><span style="font-size:1em;"><br></span></p></td></tr><tr class="ms-rteTableEvenRow-default"><td class="ms-rteTableEvenCol-default" style="width:25%;"><strong>When</strong></td><td class="ms-rteTableOddCol-default" style="width:75%;"><p>October 14, 2023<br><span style="font-size:1em;">10 a.m. to 4 p.m.</span><br></p></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Take the Infinite Journey with the Simcoe County Museum, a cultural exploration of our historical past and exciting future. The Simcoe County Museum is owned and operated by the County of Simcoe and offers year-round exhibits, events and educational programs for visitors of every age. Visit our website at <strong>museum.simcoe.ca </strong>for further details.</p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>- 30 -</strong></p><p style="text-align:left;"><strong>CONTACTS</strong></p><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-size:1em;">Chris Hedley<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">Public Relations Consultant<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department​<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">705-715-7654 (mobile)<br></span><a href="mailto:Chris.Hedley@simcoe.ca" style="font-size:1em;">Chris.Hedley@simcoe.ca</a></p><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="text-align:right;font-size:1em;">Collin Matanowitsch<br></span><span style="text-align:right;font-size:1em;">Manager, Public Relations<br></span><span style="text-align:right;font-size:1em;">County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department<br></span><span style="text-align:right;font-size:1em;">705-734-8386 (mobile)<br></span><a href="mailto:Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca" style="text-align:right;font-size:1em;">Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca</a></p>
Simcoe County celebrates World Tourism Day with the relaunch of the “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Programhttps://www.simcoe.ca/CorporateCommunications/Pages/simcoe-county-celebrates-world-tourism-day-with-the-relaunch-of-the-spark-mentorships-grants-program.aspx9/27/2023 6:33:34 PMSimcoe County celebrates World Tourism Day with the relaunch of the “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program<p></p><p><strong>Midhurst/September 27, 2023</strong> – The County of Simcoe, Regional Tourism Organization 7, and the Tourism Innovation Lab are celebrating World Tourism Day on September 27 with the relaunch of a mentorships and grants program designed to “spark" and support entrepreneurs and organizations with innovative tourism ideas for Simcoe County. <br><br>The “Spark" Program was first launched in 2018 by the Tourism Innovation Lab and has now been delivered in over 40 regions across Ontario and British Columbia. Its goal is to find, foster and support new tourism ideas that will enhance current offerings, address gaps or challenges, motivate travel and longer stays, increase year-round visits. </p><p>In 2022, three selected applicants were matched with a mentor and provided $3,000 in seed funds to help them get started with their new tourism ideas. Previous Simcoe County recipients successfully pitched poetry concerts, art experiences, and year-round nature retreats and adventures.<br> <br>For this second “Spark" Program application intake, organizers are especially interested in tourism ideas that will incorporate, address and advance sustainability, waterways and Indigenous tourism in Simcoe County. Individual entrepreneurs, small businesses, non-profits and community groups are encouraged to apply with their new tourism ideas for Simcoe County <strong>by October 26, 2023</strong>. Following a juried review process, five finalists will be invited to virtual Pitch Session where three winners will be selected to receive mentorships and grants.<br> <br>The Simcoe County “Spark" Program is led by the Tourism Innovation Lab in collaboration with Tourism Simcoe County and Regional Tourism Organization 7. For more information and to register for an Info Session, visit <a href="http://www.tourisminnovation.ca/SimcoeCounty">www.tourisminnovation.ca/SimcoeCounty</a>.</p><p><strong>Quotes</strong></p><p>“The success of our small businesses is essential to support the future of Simcoe County. The County is pleased to work with our tourism partners again to build up this program in our area. The 'Spark' Program is a great way to help our entrepreneurs succeed and encourage new tourism ideas within Simcoe County. I look forward to seeing the creative ideas flow and our tourism sector continue to grow."<br> <em>~ Basil Clarke, Warden, County of Simcoe</em></p><p>“We are excited to see Simcoe County launch the second round of the 'Spark' program with the Innovation Lab.  We've seen the benefits to local entrepreneurs in Simcoe County as they launched and grow their ideas. We can't wait to see what the ideas and experiences are."  </p><p><em>~Bill Sullivan, RTO7</em></p><p>“After a great response in 2022, we are excited to be launching the second round of the “Spark" Program in Simcoe County. We encourage entrepreneurs, small businesses and organizations across the region to come forward with innovative ideas that will elevate Simcoe County's tourism offerings and experiences and inspire travel to the region."<br> <em>~ Justin Lafontaine, Program Lead, Tourism Innovation Lab</em><br><em> </em><br><strong>About Tourism Simcoe County</strong><br><strong> </strong>Tourism Simcoe County (TSC) promotes Simcoe County as a four season destination of choice by developing products and experiences and executing comprehensive marketing campaigns across a variety of multimedia platforms. TSC provides tourism leadership throughout Simcoe County by developing the local tourism industry and forging and strengthening community partnerships. TSC is committed to supporting the sustainable growth of the region's tourism assets, including, but not limited to, Agritourism, Arts, Culture and Heritage Tourism, Indigenous Tourism and Outdoor Recreation. </p><p><strong>About Tourism Innovation Lab</strong><br><strong> </strong>The Tourism Innovation Lab is a non-profit initiative created to find, foster and support new tourism ideas, experiences and partnerships, to cultivate and propel collaborations between the tourism and tech sectors, and to build a community of tourism innovators, idea makers and entrepreneurs in Canada. First launched in 2018, the Lab and its "Spark" Mentorships & Grants Program are now offered across Ontario and British Columbia. The Tourism Innovation Lab is a program of Hackforge and is based in Windsor, ON and Squamish, BC. <br><br></p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>- 30 -</strong></p><p style="text-align:left;"><strong>CONTACTS</strong></p><p>Collin Matanowitsch<br><span style="font-size:1em;">Manager, Public Relations<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">705-734-8386 (mobile)<br></span><a href="mailto:Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca" style="font-size:1em;">Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca</a></p><p><a href="mailto:Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca" style="font-size:1em;"></a><span style="font-size:1em;">Justin Lafontaine<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">Program Lead<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">Tourism Innovation Lab<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">416-712-8819<br></span><a href="mailto:info@tourisminnovation.ca" style="font-size:1em;">info@tourisminnovation.ca</a></p><p><span style="font-size:1em;">Kim Clarke<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">Manager, Stakeholder Relations<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">Regional Tourism Organization 7<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">519-379-2506<br></span><a href="mailto:kclarke@rto7.ca" style="font-size:1em;">kclarke@rto7.ca</a></p><p><strong>SOCIAL MEDIA</strong><br></p><table cellspacing="0" width="100%" class="ms-rteTable-default"><tbody><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:25%;"><strong><em> </em></strong></td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:25%;"><strong><em>Tourism Simcoe County</em></strong></td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:25%;"><strong><em>Tourism Innovation Lab</em></strong></td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:25%;"><strong><em>RTO7</em></strong></td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default"><em>Facebook</em></td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">@experiencesimcoecounty</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">@tourisminnovationcanada</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">@RTO7Connection</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default"><em>Instagram</em></td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">@experiencesimcoecounty</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">@tourisminnovationcanada</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">@RTO7Connection</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default"><em>Twitter</em></td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">@simcoecountyTSC</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">@tourinnovation</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default"><strong>@</strong>RTO7Connection​<br></td></tr></tbody></table><p>​</p>
Fall bi-weekly Leaf and Yard Waste Collection starts October 2https://www.simcoe.ca/CorporateCommunications/Pages/fall-bi-weekly-leaf-and-yard-waste-collection-starts-october-2.aspx9/25/2023 2:44:00 PMFall bi-weekly Leaf and Yard Waste Collection starts October 2<p><strong>Midhurst/ September 25, 2023</strong>– The County of Simcoe's popular curbside Leaf and Yard Waste Collection program is set to start on October 2 in Zone One and October 9 in Zone Two, running bi-weekly into December with five collections per zone. These bi-weekly collections include leaves, grass, branches (sized and bundled appropriately), and garden waste. Residents are reminded to use kraft paper yard waste bags, compostable bags, cardboard boxes, or open-ended rigid containers when placing leaf and yard waste at the curb.</p><p>Materials for collection should be placed curbside by 7 a.m. on the Monday of your collection weeks. Collection will occur during the week, not necessarily on residents' regular collection day. To determine your collection zone and collection weeks, please refer to the <a href="/SolidWasteManagement/Documents/2023%20Waste%20Management%20Calendar.pdf">2023 Waste Management Calendar</a>. The schedule is also available on the Simcoe County Collects App, which is free to download from the App Store or Google Play. </p><p>Fall 2023 leaf and yard waste will be collected throughout the week in each zone as follows: <br></p><p><strong>Zone One</strong></p><p>Week of October 2, 2023 </p><p>Week of October 16, 2023</p><p>Week of October 30, 2023</p><p>Week of November 13, 2023</p><p>Week of November 27, 2023</p><p><strong>Zone Two</strong></p><p>Week of October 9, 2023 </p><p>Week of October 23, 2023</p><p>Week of November 6, 2023</p><p>Week of November 20, 2023</p><p>Week of December 4, 2023</p><p><em>This County program does not apply to the cities of Barrie and Orillia. </em></p><p>he County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at <strong>simcoe.ca</strong>. </p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>- 30 -</strong><br><strong> </strong><br></p><p style="text-align:left;"><strong>CONTACTS</strong></p><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-size:1em;">Chris Hedley<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">Public Relations Consultant<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">705-715-7654 (mobile)<br></span><a href="mailto:Chris.Hedley@simcoe.ca" style="font-size:1em;">Chris.Hedley@simcoe.ca</a></p><p style="text-align:left;"><a href="mailto:Chris.Hedley@simcoe.ca" style="font-size:1em;"></a><span style="font-size:1em;">Collin Matanowitsch​<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">Public Relations Manager<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">705-734-8386 (mobile)<br></span><a href="mailto:Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca" style="font-size:1em;">Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca</a></p>
Fall Yard Waste Collection 2023https://www.simcoe.ca/SolidWasteManagement/Pages/Fall-Yard-Waste-Collection-2023.aspx9/19/2023 7:55:00 PMFall Yard Waste Collection 2023<p></p><p>Fall  leaf and yard waste collection begins October 2nd (Zone 1) and October 9 (Zone 2) and runs biweekly until December 8th. ​ To determine your yard waste collection schedule, download the free Simcoe County Collects app:<br></p><p><span lang="EN-US"><span class="ms-rteThemeForeColor-5-3"><strong><a title="get it on Google play" href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ca.simcoe.recollect.waste" target="_blank"><img src="/SolidWasteManagement/PublishingImages/google%20play.jpg" alt="" style="border-style:initial;border-color:currentcolor;margin:5px;width:132px;height:39px;" /></a></strong></span> <a title="Download on the app store " href="https://itunes.apple.com/app/id1460808130" target="_blank" style="color:#000000;"><img src="/SolidWasteManagement/PublishingImages/NEW%20APP%20LOGO.jpg" alt="" style="border-style:initial;border-color:currentcolor;margin:5px;width:134px;height:40px;" /></a></span></p><p>Alternatively, <a href="/_layouts/15/FIXUPREDIRECT.ASPX?WebId=a41fbfa1-82ca-4939-9932-d97b8d6ad3e9&TermSetId=fb933945-005d-43ad-bb62-b84ef1fa9284&TermId=348e3758-5c06-4462-9458-e200b2908da6"><font color="#0066cc">click here </font></a>to view/print your full, customized collection schedule and sign up for reminders.<br></p><p>Place material out by 7 a.m on the <span style="text-decoration-line:underline;"><strong>Monday of your collection week</strong></span>. Use paper yard waste bags, cardboard boxes, or open-ended rigid containers. Brush must be bundled and tied. Bundles must be no larger than 30 cm in width and no longer than 2 metres. Individual branches cannot exceed 7 cm in diameter. </p><ul><li>​​DO NOT place yard waste in your green cart<br></li><li>No plastic bags<br></li><li>No soil, sod, sand or rocks​<br></li></ul><div><div class="ms-rtestate-read ms-rte-embedcode ms-rte-embedil ms-rtestate-notify"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OwpdK1k6hW8" title="All about Leaf and Yard Waste! | Waste Tips with Meg | Episode 2" frameborder="0"></iframe> </div><br></div><p>​To ensure collection, leaf bags, rigid containers and bundles of brush must be visible and fall within the County's weight limit of 20 kgs per container. <br></p><font color="#000000" face="Times New Roman"></font><font color="#000000" face="Times New Roman"></font><p style="font-family:"droid sans", sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">For curbside service, leaf and yard waste must be on a municipal road. In order to get yard waste collection on a seasonal or private road, residents may rely on a Common Collection Point (CCP).</span></p><p style="font-family:"droid sans", sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">For more information please contact Customer Service at <a>service@simcoe.ca</a> or <br></span>​call 1-800-263-3199.​<br></p><p><span style="font-family:"droid sans", sans-serif;">Reminder: Collections occur throughout the week (not necessarily on your regular collection day). Please have your leaf and yard waste materials at your curb on Monday by 7 a.m. of your collection week to ensure collection is not missed. For additional confirmation, please enter your address into the waste wizard link above or download the Simcoe County Collects App for weekly reminders and alerts.  Please note that Leaf and Yard Waste Collection also occurs in the spring and summer.​        </span><br></p>
Nominations for County of Simcoe Age-Friendly Business Recognition Awards and the Individual Recognition and Achievement Awards nominations accepted until September 30https://www.simcoe.ca/CorporateCommunications/Pages/nominations-for-county-of-simcoe-age-friendly-business-recognition-awards-and-the-individual-recognition-and-achievement-a.aspx9/12/2023 1:11:34 PMNominations for County of Simcoe Age-Friendly Business Recognition Awards and the Individual Recognition and Achievement Awards nominations accepted until September 30<p><strong>Midhurst/September 12, 2023 – </strong>The County of Simcoe is accepting Age-Friendly Business Recognition Awards applications and the Age-Friendly Individual Recognition and Achievement Award nominations until September 30, 2023. These awards recognize organizations that have taken action to become more accessible to seniors and individuals who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to creating age-friendly communities. </p><p>This year, the County will host a ceremony in late fall to recognize all award recipients.</p><p><strong>Age-friendly Business Recognition Awards</strong><br><strong> </strong>All businesses, from banks to pharmacies, are encouraged to participate in the Age-Friendly Business Recognition program. Organizations can assess their age-friendliness using our Self-Assessment Checklist within the <a href="/LongTermCare/Documents/AF%20-%20Business%20Guide%202023.pdf">business/organization guide</a>. Those looking to improve their rating can take advantage of in-person and online <a href="/LongTermCare/Pages/AFC-Other-Resources.aspx">County services and resources</a>. </p><p>The Age-Friendly Business Recognition Awards reflect the importance of adapting to the increase in seniors within Simcoe County and the County's commitment to recognizing businesses that take action. Businesses that have made progress to improve services for seniors within Simcoe County (including the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia) are invited to submit an <a href="/LongTermCare/Documents/AF%20-%20Application%20for%20Recognition%20for%20Businesses%20(Fillable).pdf">Age-friendly Business Recognition Application Form</a>, to be reviewed by a sub-committee.</p><p>The Age-Friendly Business Recognition Award winners will be recognized through a County press release, social media and on the County website. They will also receive a certificate, decal for their door and prizes for their staff, including a $50 Tim Horton's Gift Card. </p><p><strong>Age-Friendly Individual Recognition and Achievement Awards</strong><br><strong> </strong>The Age-Friendly Individual Recognition and Achievement Awards recognize an Age-Friendly Champion and an older adult who demonstrate outstanding commitment to creating Age-Friendly communities and enriching the lives of seniors in their community(s). Individuals are invited to submit a nomination form that will be reviewed by a sub-committee. Visit the <a href="/LongTermCare/Pages/Age-Friendly-Individual-Recognition-and-Achievement-.aspx">Awards page</a> for more details. </p><p>The Age-Friendly Individual Recognition and Achievement Award winners will receive recognition through a County press release, social media and on the County website. They will also receive a framed award certificate. </p><p><strong>Quotes</strong><br><strong> </strong>“The County is grateful to the thousands of businesses and individuals that continue to support seniors in our communities. The County's Age-friendly Program is one way that we can recognize those people and companies that go out of their way to make life easier for our senior residents." – <em>County of Simcoe Warden Basil Clarke</em></p><p>“Seniors make up a growing percentage of our population in Simcoe County. Through our Age-friendly Business and Age-friendly Individual Recognition programs, we are assisting businesses with helpful information and resources on how they can better serve people as they age, as well as recognizing the efforts of companies and individuals that have already taken action to support our older adults." – <em>Jane Sinclair, General Manger, Health and Emergency Services, Simcoe County</em></p><p><strong>About the Simcoe County Age-Friendly Community Program</strong><br><strong> </strong>The Age-Friendly Community Program was established in 2016 to increase awareness of the County's aging population and help businesses and organizations evaluate their environment and service delivery. The County continues to provide resources and assessment tools to help organizations implement age-friendly goals and strategies and adapt to our aging population. For more information on our Age-Friendly Community program and the Business Guide and Recognition Awards, visit <a href="http://www.simcoe.ca/agefriendly">www.simcoe.ca/agefriendly</a>, email <a href="mailto:agefriendly@simcoe.ca">agefriendly@simcoe.ca</a> or call 705-726-9300 ext. 3127.</p><p><strong>About County of Simcoe</strong><br><strong> </strong>County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at <strong>simcoe.ca</strong>.</p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>- 30 -</strong></p><p style="text-align:left;"><strong>CONTACTS</strong></p><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-size:1em;">Chris Hedley<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">Public Relations Consultant<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department​<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">705-715-7654 (mobile)<br></span><a href="mailto:Chris.Hedley@simcoe.ca" style="font-size:1em;">Chris.Hedley@simcoe.ca</a></p><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-size:1em;">Collin Matanowitsch<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">Manager, Public Relations<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">705-734-8386 (mobile)<br></span><a href="mailto:Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca" style="font-size:1em;">Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca</a></p>
Enjoy a guided tour and discover the Simcoe County Foresthttps://www.simcoe.ca/CorporateCommunications/Pages/enjoy-a-guided-tour-and-discover-the-simcoe-county-forest.aspx9/11/2023 1:15:15 PMEnjoy a guided tour and discover the Simcoe County Forest<p><br></p><p><strong>Midhurst/September 11, 2023 –</strong> In recognition of both National Forest Week (September 17 to 23) and Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) Forest Week (September 24 to 30), the County of Simcoe is offering free guided hikes in several Simcoe County Forest locations throughout the region. Each hike will be approximately 1.5 km in length and on a beginner level trail, taking no more than 90 minutes to complete.</p><p>These guided hikes will be led by a knowledgeable and experienced County forestry staff member who will provide details on the rich history and current management practises of the Simcoe County Forest. <em>Participants are reminded to dress according to weather conditions as tours will commence rain or shine, and bring water bottles or additional items in a backpack. </em></p><p>A complete listing of tours can be found at <a href="http://www.simcoe.ca/forestryguidedtours"><strong>www.simcoe.ca/forestryguidedtours</strong></a><strong> </strong>and include:</p><table cellspacing="0" width="100%" class="ms-rteTable-default"><tbody><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:25%;"><strong>Date</strong></td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:25%;"><strong>Time</strong></td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:25%;"><strong>Forest Tract</strong></td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:25%;"><strong>Address</strong></td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Sunday, September 17</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">10 a.m.</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Sutherland</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">2573 5<sup>th</sup> Line, Oro-Medonte</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Sunday, September 17</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">1 p.m.</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Baxter</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">6596 6<sup>th</sup> Line, Essa</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Tuesday, September 19</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">5 p.m.</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Slessor</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">3721 Burnside Line, Severn</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Wednesday, September 20</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">5 p.m.</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Martin's Valley/Charlebois</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">390 Wilson Road, Tiny</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Thursday, September 21</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">5 p.m.</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Packard</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">9398 9th Line, Essa</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Thursday, September 21</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">5 p.m.</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Sutherland</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">2573 5th Line, Oro-Medonte</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Saturday, September 23</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">10 a.m.</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Packard </td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">9398 9<sup>th</sup> Line, Essa</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Sunday, September 24</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">10 a.m.</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Hendrie</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">1350 Nursery Road, Springwater</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Tuesday, September 26</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">5 p.m.</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Hendrie</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">1350 Nursery Road, Springwater</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Wednesday, September 27​<br></td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">5 p.m.</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Martin's Valley/Charlebois</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">390 Wilson Road, Tiny</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Thursday, September 28</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">5 p.m.</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Baxter</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">6596 6<sup>th</sup> Line, Essa</td></tr></tbody></table><p>#NationalForestWeek is led by the Canadian Institute of Forestry (CIF), celebrating the heritage, value and importance of forest networks to our economy and environment. The CIF named Simcoe County the Forest Capital of Canada for 2022. The County was the first ever two-time winner of this prestigious national award (2022 and 1982), which acknowledges leadership in forestry and environmental stewardship. Learn more about the CIF and their #NationalForestWeek program at <a href="http://www.cif-ifc.org/what-we-do/national-forest-week/">www.cif-ifc.org/what-we-do/national-forest-week/</a>. </p><p>The Forest Stewardship Council® is an international non-profit organization that promotes the responsible management of the world's forests. FSC Forest Week is an annual campaign designed to raise consumer awareness of FSC and responsible forest management. The County of Simcoe is proud to have maintained FSC certification since 2010 (FSC® C013174).</p><p>County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at <strong>simcoe.ca</strong>.</p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>- 30 -</strong></p><p style="text-align:left;"><strong>CONTACTS​</strong></p><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-size:1em;">Chris Hedley<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">Public Relations Consultant<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">705-715-7654 (mobile)<br></span><a href="mailto:Chris.Hedley@simcoe.ca" style="font-size:1em;">Chris.Hedley@simcoe.ca</a></p><p style="text-align:left;"><span style="font-size:1em;">Collin Matanowitsch<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">Manager, Public Relations<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department<br></span><span style="font-size:1em;">705-734-8386 (mobile)<br></span><a href="mailto:Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca" style="font-size:1em;">Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca</a></p>