Dec 4 - Local News, Views & Events

Plus: An update on the collision that closed Highway 6 yesterday morning; expanded dementia care funding coming to the region

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We kick things off today with another community poll for our Midterm Council Report, and I’ll preface this with a note that this question specifically refers to your elected representatives – the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and seven councilors.

We’re not talking about the city’s website or social media channels, as those are staff functions. Our Midterm Report concerns your representation at the table where important municipal decisions are made by the people you elected in 2022.

Point of View

I will also say this, in response to the occasional negative comment and email we’ve received about our Community Polls. A few have expressed that asking questions and encouraging dialogue around issues some may find uncomfortable is distasteful, rude, or even divisive.

Well, I disagree.

Accountability and transparency are the cornerstones of democracy, ensuring that public organizations serve the community with integrity. Journalism plays an integral role in that system. We are the watchers, the archivists, and the bridge-builders who document events, amplify diverse voices, and encourage meaningful conversations. Without these functions, the threads that bind our community and its governance begin to fray.

This vital role of the media is under threat globally and locally, but we cannot afford a culture of silence in our town.

Unfortunately, we’ve seen a troubling trend of elected representatives shutting down and refusing to engage with important questions. Owen Sound has not been immune. This is not just dismissive—it undermines the trust and dialogue needed for healthy governance. Public servants are accountable to the people, and ignoring concerns erodes the democratic process.

At The Owen Sound Current, we believe in asking the tough questions, holding leadership to account, and challenging institutions to improve wherever possible. We see this role as essential, not adversarial, and part of a shared commitment to fairness, integrity, and progress.

Open dialogue and informed critique strengthen our community and ensure its leaders remain accountable to the people they serve. We’re committed to continuing these conversations in pursuit of a stronger, more connected Owen Sound—a shared goal that should unite us all.

~ Miranda Miller, Editor

Community

Holiday magic doesn’t just happen—hands, hearts, and a little creative ingenuity all play a part. Whether it’s a plywood reindeer, decorated farm equipment, or candy villages held together with zip ties, these creations bring joy to small-town streets.

In her latest column, Jen Shaw reflects on the joy, determination, and duct tape that make rural holiday traditions unforgettable.

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