Ward 1 Update by Councillor Laurie Cook
Welcome back to the Bay everyone! Hope this gorgeous weather continues but that we get some rain as well. I wanted to share news from Ward 1:
Fire Safety
- You may have seen that NEMI is currently under a complete Fire Ban. That includes the islands.
- Check the Town website https://www.townofnemi.on.ca/ or FB page for updates and to sign up for alerts.
- The NEMI Fire Dept. will once again be offering safety and pump training this summer in Whitefish Falls. Learn details here and contact David Gallup to register for this very useful workshop.
Municipal Election
Cultural Events
- NEMI has a lot of interesting events and opportunities planned for 2026 and the Town website www.townofnemi.on.ca and fb page have up-to-date listings.
- The Centennial Museum in Sheguiandah opened in mid May with various art shows and children’s activities throughout the season, including a Northern Ontario Artists Association (NOAA) juried art show in June and the Manitoulin Fine Arts Assoc. show in August. The beloved Fall Fair will be held on Sept. 19th and tours of the Sheguiandah Archeological Site will be ongoing. Contact the museum for ticketing information (705) 368-2367:
https://www.townofnemi.on.ca/p/centennial-museum-of-sheguiandah
Landfill Updates
- Household Hazardous Waste Day will be held on July 11th at the Recreation Centre (mark your calendars!) And check the NEMI Facebook page for details.
- Landfill hours expanded to include Sundays 10a.m. to 5 pm from the 3rd week of May until the 3rd week of October and operate year-round on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Recycling rules have changed but now include more items – please check the Town website for the full list.
- Recycling bins are no longer being hosted by McGregor’s Landing in Birch Island but the Town has agreed to allow Ward 1 residents to use the bins at Spider Bay Marina.(45 Water St. Little Current, 705 368 3148) outside of regular landfill site hours. An attendant is there during the summer until 8pm. Have a bill or your tax roll number to prove Ward 1 residency if asked.
NEMI Public Library
- As always our wonderful NEMI Public Library (50 Meredith St. 705 368 2044) offers more than just books. There are programs and events galore – with many geared towards children and seniors. The lending library continues to offer tools and equipment for members to borrow and use at home. The list is extensive – please call the library at (705) 368 2044 for more information and conditions.
- Again your tax roll # or bill showing Ward 1 residency will get you a library card and all the great benefits that provides: https://nemi.olsn.ca/
- Their FB page has updated program and event information. There’s even a hybrid book club!
- Call to ask about the Senior Compass programs as well.
Additional Happenings
Other notable dates of community events include:
- The first Community Safety Day was held on June 6th.
- Comic Con is coming June 12/13 at the Rec Centre.
- The annual Community Picnic will be held on July 12th at Low Island Park – everyone is welcome and there are always numerous fun children’s activities.
- July 31 to Aug 02nd is Haweater Weekend in Little Current and the very popular Tugboat Rendez-vous will be returning on August 14/15 – as well as Pride Weekend from the 14th to the 16th, complete with a joyful parade and free community bbq.
- And for anyone looking to stay physically active over the summer – remember that NEMI has some beautiful trails and the Rec Centre has various programs – including pickleball and tennis courts. Check with the Town office for details (705) 368 3500.
Enjoy your precious time out in the Bay, and to all our returning American and international friends, you are very welcome!
As always, contact me with your comments or concerns: hlaurie.cook@yandex.com or (705) 282 7076.
All the very best for a wonderful summer,
Laurie Cook
Councillor Ward 1
NEMI
Bay Of Islands Community Association