Thunder Bay Daily News | September 26, 2025 (Friday)

Lead: Today's focus is on postal labor developments and public service adjustments: CUPW (Canadian Union of Postal Workers) launched actions in Thunder Bay and warned of the impact of reduced delivery frequency; municipal garbage collection will be partially rescheduled starting next week; the province announced $30 million in forestry funding in Thunder Bay (1.5+1.5); meanwhile, Kenora advances its first active transportation plan, Fort Frances is deadlocked over the display of historic tugboats, and Superior North issues several public notices and industry announcements.

Business & Economy

Postal union announces strike, says government 'attacking postal service'

Time and place: September 26, 2025, Thunder Bay

Key info: CUPW organized actions that day, saying government and operator reforms constitute an 'attack' on postal service and frontline workers; picket lines appeared at local morning outlets; mail processing and delivery may be delayed; the public should allow extra time and use trackable channels when sending documents and prescription drugs.

Postal delivery frequency cuts will 'hurt the public'

Time and place: September 26, 2025, Balmoral Street (Thunder Bay)

Key info: CUPW Local 620 says cutting delivery service would affect not only workers but also seniors, car-free households, and low-income groups who rely on mail; the union held a mobilization walk on a main city road, calling for maintaining daily delivery schedules.

Province announces $30 million to support forestry in response to tariffs

Time and place: September 26, 2025, Thunder Bay

Key info: The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) announced two funding packages of $15 million each locally, aimed at equipment upgrades and market development, to buffer the impact of U.S. softwood lumber tariffs and promote investment and jobs in the local forestry chain.

Thunder Bay 50/50 September jackpot winner announced

Time and place: September 26, 2025, Thunder Bay

Key info: The winner from Hanmer, ON claimed the approximately $2 million (pre-tax) prize, saying they plan to use it to support their children and grandchildren; Thunder Bay 50/50 is a local healthcare charity lottery, with proceeds going to regional medical facilities and equipment.

City Hall (Municipal & Policy)

Kenora advances 'active transportation' blueprint

Time and place: September 26, 2025, Kenora

Key info: The city released its first draft Active Transportation plan, aiming to improve walking and cycling networks, right-of-way allocation, and intersection safety design, to serve as a reference for future land and road decisions; the draft awaits council review before moving to implementation details.

Fort Frances historic tugboat display plan 'stalled'

Time and place: September 26, 2025, Fort Frances

Key info: Regarding the long-term display location for the two historic tugboats Hallett and Owandem, the city council is deadlocked between two options; trade-offs involving budget, maintenance costs, and tourism impact still need further negotiation.

Courts & Justice

Inquest jury recommends improvements after mine death

Time and place: September 26, 2025, Thunder Bay

Key info: In the case of a 64-year-old worker who died in an accident at the Lac des Iles Mine site five years ago, the jury issued recommendations calling for strengthening regulations, operating procedures, and education and training, with relevant departments and companies implementing corrective and review mechanisms.

Traffic & Roads

Hyundai Palisade seat belt issue triggers recall

Time and place: September 26, 2025, Canada (local notice)

Key info: Due to seat belt-related hazards, some Hyundai Palisade models are being recalled nationwide; owners are advised to use their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check recall scope and book repairs on manufacturer or regulatory platforms, and to check that restraint systems are working before driving.

Community & Events

Ontario to host international mine rescue conference in 2029

Time and place: September 26, 2025, Ontario

Key info: The conference will coincide with the centennial of Ontario Mine Rescue, and is expected to attract mining safety agencies, companies, and rescue teams; topics will cover underground rescue, equipment, and training standards.

Gas & Daily Services

Garbage collection dates adjusted next week

Time and place: September 26, 2025, Thunder Bay

Key info: The city reminds: some addresses originally scheduled for Tuesday pickup will be temporarily rescheduled next week; residents should check the notice card and the official website route map for new dates, pay attention to placement time windows and bin rules, and avoid missed pickups.

DSSAB cheques changed to in-person pickup

Time and place: September 26, 2025, Superior North (Thunder Bay District)

Key info: Due to the postal strike, the District Social Services Administration Board (DSSAB, Thunder Bay District Social Services Administration Board) announced that cheques for benefits and housing allowances can be picked up at designated counters, effective 'until further notice'; bring valid ID and consider going during off-peak hours.