(File photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo Inc. / epantha)(File photo courtesy of © Can Stock Photo Inc. / epantha)
Midwestern

MPP Worries Local Grocery Stores Will Close Due To High Hydro Rates

Local MPP's worry high hydro rates will lead to more local businesses closing, with one local grocery store paying $120,000 a year.

And with a tight profit margin, Huron Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson worries "the every increasing cost of energy is coming off their bottom line. And if they can't get assistance, true assistance , a true break, from this government, unfortunately we're going to see more and more grocery stores close in our communities."

Bruce Grey Owen Sound MPP Bill Walker says a Chesley store's bill's increased 157.8% to $120,000 a year.

High energy costs dominated discussion at Queen's Park again today.

Thompson says a petition she is circulating has over 5,000 signatures which shows just how tired people are of the mismanagement of the energy file.

In the meantime, she calls the plan to rebate the 8% provincial portion of the HST a shell game. She says the government will include that rebate as a line on power bills, while hiding cap and trade fees on home heating bills.

Read More Local Stories

New military crosswalk rendering. (Image courtesy of the Sarnia Legion Branch 62)

New military crosswalk in Sarnia to be unveiled

As part of a partnership between the Sarnia Legion Branch 62 and City of Sarnia, an unveiling ceremony will be held at the corner of Christina Street and Wellington Street on Sunday, June 7, at 2 p.m.

Members of the Sarnia Police Service entering a Tashmoo Avenue residence on June 4, 2026. (Photo courtesy of the Sarnia Police Service)

Two men arrested in Tashmoo Ave. standoff

Sarnia police said the investigation began on May 29 after the victim was allegedly attacked by acquaintances at a residence near Tashmoo Avenue and Christopher Drive at Aamjiwnaang First Nation.