News Releases

Regional Chair statement on the passing of the Honourable David Onley

Whitby, Ontario – The following statement is being issued on behalf of John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for The Regional Municipality of Durham:

“On behalf of the Region of Durham and our residents, I’d like to offer my deepest condolences on the passing of Ontario’s 28th Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable David Onley. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.

Mr. Onley was a strong advocate for accessibility throughout his career—raising public awareness...

Health Department celebrates National Non-Smoking Week January 15 to 21

Whitby, Ontario - National Non-Smoking Week is January 15 to 21. Durham Region Health Department will celebrate by reminding everyone that it’s never too late to quit smoking and encouraging them to “Don’t Quit Quitting!” This week has been recognized across Canada for more than 30 years and is observed annually to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use.

“The start of a new year is often a time when people reflect on their health,” said Joanne Huizinga, a public health nurse with...

Winter Warming Plan and shelter programs support unsheltered residents in Durham Region

Whitby, Ontario – Everyone deserves a roof over their head and warmth this winter, which is why the Region of Durham provides shelter programs and a Winter Warming Plan to support unsheltered residents.

People experiencing homelessness, or those who are marginally housed, are some of the most at-risk groups for cold-related illnesses—including hypothermia, frostnip and frostbite, and trench foot. Cold weather can also make existing health conditions worse, such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases....

Durham Region partners with AccessNow to become a leader in accessibility mapping

Whitby, Ontario – In the lead up to hosting the Durham Region 2023 Ontario Parasport Games, Durham Region has partnered with AccessNow to become a leader in accessibility mapping to increase inclusion confidence for residents and visitors.

AccessNow is a free app available on Google Play and the Apple App Store. It allows users to discover accessible and non-accessible pinned locations in 35 countries around the world.

All Games venues have been added to the app. The Region and its eight municipalities...

Durham Regional Council approves 2023 water and sanitary sewer user rates

Whitby, Ontario – Durham Regional Council has approved the 2023 water supply and sanitary sewer user rates, with a combined increase of 4.3 per cent, an estimated annual increase of $45.92 for the average residential customer.

In addition to ongoing maintenance and operation of the water supply and sanitary sewerage systems, Durham Region has several major projects planned for 2023 including:

• Planning, detailed design and construction of 24.1 kilometres of watermain and sanitary sewer projects.