Belleville, Ontario, is facing a growing homelessness crisis — one that reflects a broader emergency unfolding across many small communities in the province. As the number of people in need continues to climb, the city’s plans for a centralized, 24/7 support service known as The HUB have stalled, raising concerns about the future of local efforts to address homelessness, addiction, and mental health challenges. What Is the HUB and Where Does It Stand? The HUB was designed to be a round-the-clock facility offering food, shelter, addiction recovery, mental health services, and case management all under one roof. It was created in partnership with local service providers to serve as a one-stop solution for individuals facing housing insecurity and complex health challenges. But despite community support and significant municipal investment, the project’s future is now uncertain. A new budget proposal presented by the overseeing organization significantly exceeded earlier funding approvals. Without financial backing from upper levels of government to cover the increased costs, the city has paused its next steps. As of May 2025, the HUB is not officially cancelled, but remains on hold. Mayor Neil Ellis has indicated the city is prepared to move forward independently if needed — potentially through a special tax levy or increased long-term debt — but acknowledges that without provincial funding, it's a challenging path forward. How Many People Are Affected? Homelessness is rising at an alarming rate across Ontario. According to the most recent statistics in 2024 Over 81,500 people experienced homelessness in the province last year — a 25% increase since 2022. More than 50% of those individuals are considered chronically homeless. Ontario municipalities spent approximately $2.1 billion on homelessness and housing programs in 2024 alone. In Belleville, estimates from service providers and community outreach programs indicate that the local number of people experiencing homelessness has increased substantially since the last official count. Though precise figures are difficult to obtain, there is broad agreement that current services are overwhelmed and under-resourced. In nearby Prince Edward County (PEC), while the most recent official count identified 45 individuals, local agencies acknowledge that the actual number is likely much higher. Experts suggest that for every person counted, three to five more are missed — hidden homelessness remains widespread in rural areas where individuals often sleep in vehicles, sheds, or rely on temporary arrangements. This suggests the real number in PEC could easily exceed 150 to 200 people. PEC has taken action with initiatives like Leeward House, a transitional housing facility, and a new five-year housing plan focused on increasing affordable and supportive units. However, demand continues to outpace supply. What’s Being Done? Despite the stalled progress on the HUB, there is potential for a new path forward. In early 2025, Ontario announced the creation of 27 Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) Hubs across the province — with Belleville selected as one of the locations. These provincially funded hubs aim to provide integrated support services, including addiction treatment, mental health care, supportive housing, and employment support. While this initiative aligns closely with the original intent of the HUB, the government has not yet released details about when or how the HART Hub will be implemented in Belleville — or whether it will incorporate the infrastructure already developed for the HUB. In the meantime, the city continues to support short-term emergency services and local organizations that offer outreach, meals, and temporary shelter. However, these measures are not enough to address the full scope of the crisis. Conclusion: A Turning Point That Demands Leadership Belleville’s stalled HUB project is emblematic of a larger problem — local governments are willing and ready to act but lack the sustained support needed to bring lasting solutions to life. With rising homelessness, addiction, and mental health concerns placing increasing strain on municipal resources, the need for coordinated provincial leadership has never been greater. The success of the proposed HART Hub — and the future of any HUB-style initiative in Belleville — will depend on whether all levels of government are prepared to invest in meaningful, long-term change. For now, the city's most vulnerable continue to wait. How You Can Help? To support the ongoing fight against homelessness in our community, a portion of all donations received through this article will be reinvested directly into local efforts. Whether it's providing immediate assistance to individuals experiencing homelessness or contributing to trusted organizations dedicated to housing, outreach, and support services, your generosity will make a tangible difference. Together, we can help build a stronger, more compassionate future for everyone. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

May 13, 2025 The Ontario government has announced plans to make the current gas tax cut permanent and to eliminate tolls on the provincially owned section of Highway 407 East. Premier Doug Ford stated that these measures aim to reduce transportation costs for Ontarians. Gas Tax Cut Becomes Permanent Initially introduced in July 2022, the gas tax cut reduced the gasoline tax by 5.7 cents per litre and the diesel tax by 5.3 cents per litre. The government now intends to make this reduction permanent, estimating that it will save the average Ontario household approximately $380 annually. Elimination of Tolls on Highway 407 East The province plans to remove tolls from the publicly owned portion of Highway 407 East, which runs from Brock Road in Pickering to Highway 115 in Clarington. According to the government, this change could save daily commuters up to $7,200 per year. It's important to note that this proposal does not affect the privately operated portion of Highway 407, known as the 407 ETR, which remains under a 99-year lease agreement established in 1999. Political Responses and Future Plans Opposition parties have presented their perspectives on these proposals. Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles has pledged to remove tolls on the entire Highway 407, including the privately operated section, within the first 100 days if elected. The NDP also proposes to negotiate the buyback of the 407 ETR to bring it under public ownership. Expert Opinions Transportation experts have expressed concerns regarding the potential implications of these measures. Peter Miasek, president of Transport Action Ontario, cautioned that removing tolls could lead to increased traffic congestion due to induced demand. He emphasized the importance of investing in public transit and developing compact communities as more sustainable solutions for long-term transportation challenges. Conclusion The proposed permanent gas tax cut and the removal of tolls on Highway 407 East are significant components of the Ontario government's strategy to reduce transportation costs for residents. While these measures aim to provide financial relief to drivers, they have also sparked discussions about their potential impact on traffic congestion and environmental sustainability. As the province approaches the upcoming election, these proposals are likely to remain central topics of debate among policymakers, experts, and the public. Sharing Matters: Keeping Each Other Informed About What Affects Us All Decisions like cutting the gas tax or removing tolls on a major highway don’t just affect individuals — they impact entire communities. Whether you drive to work every day, run a small business, or live on a tight budget, these changes influence the cost of living and how we move through our province. That’s why it’s important to share articles like this one. Passing along accurate, up-to-date information helps others stay aware of decisions that affect their daily lives. A quick share might help a neighbour save money on their commute or give someone a better understanding of what’s happening in their region. When we keep each other informed, we’re not just spreading news — we’re building a more connected, prepared, and empowered Ontario. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup   Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

As spring reaches full bloom, the village of Warkworth in Trent Hills, Ontario, is preparing to welcome visitors to its annual Warkworth Lilac Festival, happening the weekend of May 24–25, 2025. This beloved event celebrates the arrival of the lilac season with a weekend full of color, community spirit, live entertainment, and local charm. Explore the Millennium Lilac Trail The highlight of the festival is the scenic Millennium Lilac Trail, a 2.3-kilometre return pathway lined with more than 300 blooming lilac bushes in over 80 varieties. Whether you're a gardening enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by fragrant blossoms, the trail offers an unforgettable springtime experience. Festival-goers can join guided tours and speak with lilac experts for tips on growing and maintaining lilacs at home. Live Performances and Family Activities Throughout the weekend, live music will fill the air, with performances from local talents including Bradley McAree, Bay City Trio, Good To Go, and The Blue Rigbys. The Firelights Belly Dance Troupe will also bring energy and color to the festival with vibrant performances. Children can enjoy hands-on activities such as lilac crafts, a trivia contest, and cupcake decorating—making this event perfect for the whole family. Shop Local, Eat Well Main Street will be transformed into a lively artisan marketplace, where local vendors showcase handcrafted goods, lilac-themed products, and garden decor. A wide selection of food will also be available, with highlights like pizza from Chef Greedy Bites, Harry’s Hots, Dr. Bucks Sweet Treats, and classic lemonade stands. Don’t miss out on the special boxed lunches inspired by the lilac theme. A Festival Built on Community The Warkworth Lilac Festival is made possible by the passion and dedication of local volunteers, businesses, and organizations. Proceeds from some events during the festival go toward maintaining the Millennium Lilac Trail, ensuring it remains a beautiful and accessible feature for years to come. Don’t Miss It If you’re planning to attend, it’s recommended to bring cash for market purchases and lilac plant sales. For updates, schedules, and more information as the event approaches, visit the official website at www.warkworthlilacfestival.ca . Whether you're visiting for the lilacs, the music, the food, or the small-town atmosphere, the Warkworth Lilac Festival offers a memorable way to welcome the warmer season in full bloom. Keep the Spirit Growing If this glimpse into the Warkworth Lilac Festival has sparked your interest or brought back fond memories, consider passing it along. Whether it’s a quick share on social media or an email to a friend who loves local events, spreading the word helps support small-town celebrations like this one — and ensures more people get the chance to enjoy what Warkworth has to offer. Every time someone shares an event like this, it helps the community grow just a little brighter, just like the lilacs in bloom. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup   Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

By Small Town Productions | May 10, 2025 In the aftermath of Canada's tight and historic 2025 federal election, judicial recounts have been ordered in four key ridings following razor-thin margins and growing public scrutiny over the integrity of the results. These recounts are not just a formality—they are a response to calls for transparency from voters, candidates, and political observers alike. Rising Public Concern With such close outcomes in several districts and a minority government hanging in the balance, concerns about vote-counting accuracy quickly emerged. While Elections Canada affirmed its confidence in the original tabulations, the closeness of the vote triggered automatic recounts in some ridings and judicial reviews in others. Judges have stated these actions are essential to uphold public trust in Canadian democracy. “Given the closeness of the result and the public interest in ensuring confidence in our electoral system, a recount is both warranted and necessary.” - Justice Marie-Pauline Dugré, Terrebonne recount Ridings Under Judicial Recount 1. Terrebonne, Quebec Initial winner: Liberal Tatiana Auguste Certified winner: Bloc incumbent Nathalie Sinclair-Desgagné (by 44 votes) Status: Recount ordered due to conflicting results and tight margin. 2. Milton East–Halton Hills South, Ontario Lead: Liberal Kristina Tesser Derksen by 29 votes Status: Recount scheduled for May 13 after a formal petition and public concern. 3. Terra Nova–The Peninsulas, Newfoundland & Labrador Winner: Liberal Anthony Germain by 12 votes Status: Automatic recount begins May 12 due to narrow margin. 4. Windsor–Tecumseh–Lakeshore, Ontario Winner: Conservative Kathy Borrelli by 77 votes Status: Judicial recount granted following a Liberal petition and procedural concerns. Implications for Parliament With the Liberal Party holding 168 seats—four shy of a majority—the final outcome of these recounts could be pivotal. Even one riding shifting could influence coalition dynamics or confidence motions in the House of Commons. A Transparent Process Though some view recounts as signs of a flawed system, experts and judges alike argue they’re proof of a healthy democracy. Judicial oversight and transparency in the process help ensure the results reflect voters’ true intentions. Thank You for Standing Up for Democracy At Small Town Productions, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has shared this story, raised awareness, and spoken up for transparency and accountability. Your voices matter. By staying informed, asking questions, and demanding fairness, you're helping uphold the democratic values that define true Canadian patriotism. Whether you voted, volunteered, or simply paid attention—thank you for standing tall for what’s right. Together, we strengthen not just our communities, but our country. Keep watching, keep questioning, and keep believing in the power of everyday Canadians. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Keene, Ontario – May 7, 2025 A shocking armed robbery unfolded Tuesday evening in the small community of Keene, Ontario, just outside of Peterborough and about 20 minutes from the village of Hastings. Around 5:00 p.m., four masked individuals stormed the Kawartha Credit Union branch on the town’s main street, brandishing firearms and demanding cash. Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded swiftly to the scene. Two of the suspects were apprehended shortly after the robbery during a coordinated effort by officers from Peterborough County and nearby detachments. However, one other suspect remains on the run and is considered armed and dangerous. Witnesses described the robbery as fast and chaotic. Staff and customers inside the credit union were ordered to the ground while the suspects gathered money. Thankfully, no physical injuries have been reported, but the psychological impact on those present is significant. After fleeing the scene, the remaining individual was last seen heading north on foot. Police have set up checkpoints and are canvassing local roads and highways in the surrounding area, urging residents to stay alert. “This type of crime is rare in our community,” said one local resident, “It’s frightening to think something like this could happen here.” The Kawartha Credit Union branch will remain closed while police conduct a full investigation and forensic teams process the scene. Authorities are asking anyone with information, dashcam footage, or surveillance video from the area to contact the Peterborough County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers. Updates will follow as the investigation progresses. Keene and surrounding communities remain on high alert as the search for the remaining suspects continues. Help Spread the Word Sharing this article can help keep our communities safe. The more people who are aware of the situation, the greater the chance that the remaining suspects will be found quickly. If you live in or around Keene, Peterborough, Hastings, or nearby areas, please consider sharing this story on social media, through email, or with friends and family. Stay informed, stay alert — and help ensure those responsible are brought to justice. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Tuesday, May 6, 2025 — At 1:20 p.m., Environment Canada issued a Special Weather Statement for parts of eastern Ontario, warning of the potential for significant rainfall beginning tonight through Wednesday morning. Rainfall totals are expected to range between 30 and 50 mm, with some localized areas possibly exceeding that amount due to slow-moving showers and thunderstorms. The agency notes that while confidence in widespread heavy rain remains low at this time, rainfall warnings may be issued if the forecast becomes more certain. Residents in low-lying areas are advised to remain vigilant, as localized flooding is possible. For updates regarding flood risks, the public is encouraged to check with local Conservation Authorities, the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, or visit Ontario.ca/floods. Environment Canada urges the public to monitor forecasts and alerts and report severe weather by emailing onstorm@ec.gc.ca or posting on X (formerly Twitter) with the hashtag #ONStorm. Communities currently under the Special Weather Statement include: Charleston Lake, Consecon, Frontenac Islands, Gananoque, Kingston, Madoc, Mallorytown, Napanee, Odessa, Picton, Sandbanks Park, South Frontenac, Stirling, Sydenham, Tamworth, Tweed, and Westport.

Belleville, ON – Shoppers visiting the Quinte Mall are being urged to exercise extreme caution in the parking lot outside Sport Chek, where a Canada goose has made a surprising choice for a nesting site. The mother goose has been spotted nesting in one of the landscaped medians near the Sport Chek entrance, quietly guarding her eggs amid the constant flow of cars and pedestrians. While Canada geese are no strangers to urban environments, this particular location presents unique risks due to heavy traffic and activity. Adding to the alert, the father goose has been seen coming and going from the nesting area, likely keeping watch and ready to defend the nest if needed. As is common with Canada geese, the male can become aggressive if he feels the nest is threatened and may appear suddenly in the path of vehicles. Visitors to Quinte Mall are asked to: Drive slowly and stay alert when entering or leaving the Sport Chek area Watch for the geese and give them space Refrain from approaching or attempting to interact with the birds The geese are protected under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, and interfering with the nest is prohibited by law. Mall staff and passersby are keeping an eye on the nest, hoping for a safe and undisturbed hatching period. Until then, the best thing we can do is share the space and respect this determined pair of parents. Seen the geese at Quinte Mall? Share your photos or experiences with Small Town News, a division of Small Town Productions — and help spread awareness by sharing this story with others in our community!

Image Source: City of Belleville on Facebook The City of Belleville will be relocating its Automatic Speed Enforcement (ASE) cameras to new Community Safety Zones beginning the week of June 2 to 6, 2025. The move is part of an ongoing traffic safety initiative aimed at reducing speeding in areas with higher pedestrian and vehicular activity. The new ASE camera locations will be: Bridge Street West (from Sidney Street to Haslett Court) Sidney Street (from Tracey Street to College Street West) Harmony Road (from Highway 37 to 449 Harmony Road) Cannifton Road (from College Street East to Bell Boulevard/Adam Street) Public response to ASE cameras has been mixed. While many residents support the initiative for its focus on road safety, others have raised concerns about surveillance, ticket fairness, and potential revenue generation. Some cameras have also been targeted by vandals in recent months, reflecting ongoing debate about their use. Despite differing opinions, Belleville Police continue to support the program as a proactive safety measure. “Our focus is on protecting lives, not issuing tickets,” said a Belleville police officer. “Speeding is a major factor in many collisions. These cameras help remind drivers to slow down, especially in zones where community safety is a priority.” For more information, including answers to frequently asked questions, visit Belleville.ca/Traffic. For further inquiries, contact the Transportation and Operations department at 613-967-3275 or opgeneral@belleville.ca Share Your Thoughts, Stay Informed Have an opinion about Belleville’s new speed camera locations? Want to share your perspective on road safety or community enforcement? We want to hear from you. Join the conversation on social media using #BellevilleSafety or email your comments to news@smalltownproductions.org. Your voice helps shape a safer, more informed community. See something, say something. If you notice damage to any ASE camera locations or have concerns about speeding in your area, contact the Belleville Police non-emergency line at 613-966-0882. Let’s work together to make Belleville’s roads safer for everyone. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Residents of Ontario are advised that a routine test of the Alert Ready emergency alerting system will take place on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 12:55 p.m. EDT. The test message will be broadcast across television, radio, and compatible wireless devices. This is part of a nationwide initiative to ensure the emergency alert system is fully operational and capable of reaching Canadians in the event of a real emergency. Alert Ready tests are conducted regularly across participating provinces and territories to verify the system’s effectiveness and to keep the public informed and prepared. To see when the test is scheduled for your region, visit the Alert Ready website at: www.alertready.ca/testing-schedule Stay alert, stay safe. Here’s a themed section you can use for your article about the Alert Ready emergency test, focused on encouraging sharing and public awareness: Help Spread the Word Public safety is everyone’s responsibility. Sharing information about emergency alert tests helps ensure your friends, family, and community are informed and prepared. Here’s how you can help: Share this post on social media using the hashtag #AlertReady. Tag your community and local organizations so they don’t miss it. Talk to loved ones, especially seniors or those without smartphones, to make sure they know what to expect. Together, we can strengthen community preparedness — one share at a time. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

A section of Wallbridge Loyalist Road will be temporarily closed on Tuesday, May 6 and Wednesday, May 7, 2025, to allow for scheduled maintenance at the railway crossing. The affected area is limited to the portion of the road near the tracks, with the closure beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Tuesday and expected to last through Wednesday. The maintenance work is being done to ensure the continued safety and operation of the railway infrastructure. While the rest of Wallbridge Loyalist Road will remain open, no through traffic will be allowed at the crossing during the closure. Motorists are advised to plan ahead, follow detour signage, and use alternate routes to avoid delays. Local officials appreciate the public’s patience as this important work is completed. Stay Informed and Help Spread the Word The City encourages residents to help keep one another informed by sharing this notice with friends, family, and neighbours who may be affected by the closure. Staying connected and spreading awareness ensures everyone can plan ahead and travel safely. For updates on this and other roadwork projects, please visit the City of Belleville’s website or follow our official social media channels. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

The installed Automatic Speed Enforcement (ASE) camera on Dundas Street East in Belleville was recently vandalized, sparking concern and debate among residents about road safety, public property, and enforcement. The camera, part of Belleville’s initiative to reduce speeding in high-risk areas, was visibly defaced with orange spray paint. It was also damaged by a sharp object resulting in several deep gouges in the camera lens rendering it temporarily inoperable. ASE cameras are designed to automatically detect and photograph speeding vehicles, particularly in designated community safety zones. The devices do not issue demerit points but do result in fines sent to the registered owner of the vehicle. City officials have condemned the act of vandalism, calling it not only a crime but a setback in efforts to protect pedestrians and reduce dangerous driving. “Tampering with or damaging these cameras is an offense,” said a Belleville Police officer. “They are placed strategically to slow traffic and keep our streets safer—especially near schools and residential zones.” Belleville Police are currently investigating the incident, and anyone with information is encouraged to come forward. The damaged camera is expected to be repaired or replaced shortly. While some residents have voiced frustration with ASE technology, calling it a "cash grab," others view it as a necessary measure to address chronic speeding issues on major roads like Dundas Street East. As the conversation around automated enforcement continues, police urge the public to express concerns through proper channels rather than resorting to illegal actions. For updates or to report tips, residents can contact Belleville Police Service. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

In Canada’s latest federal election, the Liberal Party won the most seats in the House of Commons but did not reach the 172 seats needed for a majority. As a result, they will form a minority government—a situation that requires collaboration with other parties to pass legislation and maintain confidence in Parliament. What Is a Minority Government? A minority government occurs when the governing party has more seats than any other party but less than half of the total 343 seats. This means they cannot pass laws or budgets on their own and must rely on the support of other parties. If the government loses a vote of confidence, such as a budget vote, it could trigger another federal election. How Governing Will Work? With no majority, the Liberal Party will need to work with opposition parties to pass bills. Each piece of legislation will require negotiation and support from other Members of Parliament. This dynamic can result in either productive cross-party collaboration or legislative gridlock, depending on how parties choose to engage. Opposition Parties and Their Role The Conservative Party of Canada, as the official opposition, will hold the government to account and offer alternatives on economic, public safety, and national unity issues. The New Democratic Party (NDP) may support or oppose government initiatives, often pushing for more progressive policies in healthcare, housing, and workers' rights. The Bloc Québécois will advocate for Quebec’s interests and monitor federal policies for their impact on provincial autonomy. The Green Party of Canada is expected to prioritize climate action and sustainability, contributing to national debates on environmental policy. Independent MPs and members of smaller parties may also hold significant influence, especially in close votes. Public Confidence and Concerns As with many elections, some Canadians have expressed concerns about the integrity of the electoral process, pointing to technical issues reported by Elections Canada, including delays in voter registration updates and occasional problems with polling stations. While there is no confirmed evidence of widespread fraud or irregularities, these challenges have led to increased public scrutiny and calls for greater transparency in how elections are managed. Elections Canada has acknowledged these issues and stated it is working to improve the reliability and efficiency of future elections. The agency continues to affirm its commitment to fair, impartial, and secure democratic processes. Looking Ahead A minority government reflects a diverse set of voter priorities across the country. While it may present challenges in governance, it can also encourage broader representation and compromise. As Parliament returns, Canadians will be watching how elected officials—both in government and opposition—work together to address national issues and represent their constituents. Votes Still Being Counted, Liberals Near Majority Threshold As of now, votes are still being counted across the country, and while the Liberal Party has secured 168 confirmed seats, they remain just four seats short of the 172 needed to form a majority government. With several ridings still undeclared, there remains a possibility that the Liberals could reach the majority threshold, though the final outcome depends on the remaining counts. Election officials continue to process ballots, including mail-in and special ballots, which are contributing to the delay in full results. This extended counting period is standard procedure in close races and ensures that every vote is verified before a final seat tally is confirmed. The situation remains fluid, and Canadians are encouraged to follow Elections Canada for official updates as the counting concludes. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6