How did your local high school rank?

Presented By The Beauty Collective

Gooood morning everybody! We’re back with the BOQtoday.

The City of Belleville had some sad news issued on Wednesday morning upon hearing the passing of Kay Manderville.

Kay Manderville, a beloved and dedicated public servant, left a lasting legacy in Belleville through her five terms on City Council (1988–2003), her contributions to key projects like the Parrott Riverfront Trail, and her unwavering commitment to the community, celebrated through landmarks like the Lions’ Park pedestrian bridge named in her honour.

Here’s what InQuinte and Mayor Neil Ellis had to say about her life and contributions to the city. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and the community today.

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TOP STORY

Big Savings Coming for Ontario Homeowners in 2025

Exciting news for residents of the Bay of Quinte. Starting January 28, 2025, the Ontario government is rolling out the Home Renovation Savings Program, part of a massive $10.9 billion investment in energy efficiency over 12 years—the largest in Canadian history.

Here’s the scoop:

• Rebates up to 30% for energy-efficient upgrades like windows, doors, insulation, heat pumps, smart thermostats, and even rooftop solar panels.

• Later in 2025, the program will include rebates for energy-efficient appliances like fridges and freezers.

• It’s not just for electric heating—homeowners using propane and oil are included, thanks to the Affordable Energy Act.

So if you’ve been dreaming of home upgrades that save cash and the planet, mark your calendar—2025 is your year. More on what’s included in the program here.

THE DIGEST

BOQ Secondary Schools vs National Ranking

The Fraser Institute released the 2024 national secondary school ranking report. École secondaire publique Marc Garneau leads Bay of Quinte schools, scoring 7.5 (141/746 in Ontario). The region’s 12 schools averaged 5.25, slightly below the provincial average of 6.0. Trenton High came in last locally with 2.8. We broke down how schools in the area compare to the national averages here. Bon travail Marc Garneau!

Strike - Out

Crisis averted! Loyalist College faculty and Ontario’s 24 public colleges dodged a strike after both sides agreed to binding arbitration, ensuring classes continue uninterrupted. Students can breathe easy as the focus remains on learning, with progress made on key issues like benefits and work conditions.

County Docs Recruitment

Prince Edward County is welcoming Dr. Liam Portt, the newest addition to the County Docs program! Dr. Portt, along with his wife Andrea, have made the move from Hanover, ON, after completing his residency at Western University and is already practicing in Wellington. Go here for more info. Welcome to the area Dr. Liam Portt and family!

Speaking of the county, Picton was named one of the top 9 friendliest towns in Ontario by World Atlas. Check out what they had to say here. But isn’t Belleville the friendly city? Obviously they’ve never checked out the Belleville facebook neighbours page! 😂

CDC Announces New Executive Director

The Community Development Council of Quinte just got a fresh face at the helm! Lea Vares Greenwood is stepping in as Executive Director, ready to tackle food insecurity with passion and heart. She’s all about building a community where no one goes hungry—big moves ahead for CDC-Quinte!

Feeling Sick?

That time of year, and Quinte Health wants you to know where to go when you’re feeling under the weather. Visit here to find out all of the info.

Sponsored By Local Care Hearing Services

Introducing Belleville’s newest audiology clinic - Local Care Hearing Services. They are a breath of fresh air being independent and locally owned. Unlike previous experience in corporate clinic, they prioritize their clients.  Using the most updated assessment equipment in the region and working with all major hearing aid manufacturers, they ensure both thorough testing and treatment options.

If you're in need of audiology services, don't hesitate to reach out to Local Care Hearing Services. Their dedication to putting clients first is evident, and they are ready to exceed expectations. Call (613) 961-1180 today and discover the difference yourself. You won't be disappointed

THE BUSINESS

Canadian Choice Awards

We have some local recognition to announce from a national level. Congratulations to Emma’s Bridal Boutique on being named as Bridal Boutique of the Year by the Canadian Choice awards! Check them out on instagram here.

Coming Soon to Picton… Carte

Get excited Picton - CARTE is a new hub and storefront coming soon to Main Street Picton. Offering prepared foods, vintage comfort dishes, soups, fresh salads, and more, CARTE aims to be a go-to spot for quick, healthy meals. Follow Rachel Bies and stay subscribed for more updates as we follow the opening.

Bayview Mall McDonald’s on Dundas Reopens with a Fresh New Look

Craving a Filet-O-Fish? The Bayview Mall McDonald’s is officially back in action after a full renovation! Stop by the updated spot at 470 Dundas St. East for in-store dining or grab your go-to order through the drive-thru. PS: Almost all of the seating has been removed!

The Bay of Quinte Clothing Club

Are you excited? You can now represent The Bay of Quinte, in style. Check out this new apparel line made by people from the Bay of Quinte, for people from the Bay of Quinte. Be part of the Club. Shop now to get yours! Free local shipping.*

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

it’s the dog days of January, let’s be honest. BUT, there’s still some great events. Stay with us as we continue to update you on events alllll year long!

Closing Arguments with Chase Cha 📍 Belleville Public Library, 254 Pinnacle Street, Belleville, ON 📅 Saturday, January 11, 2025, 3:00 p.m.

Join artist Chase Cha for a live performance and closing arguments at Belleville Public Library.

All You Need Is Love: All-Star Celebration of The Beatles 📍 The Empire Theatre, 321 Front St, Belleville, ON 📅 Saturday, January 11, 2025.

Celebrate the Beatles with a tribute show featuring an all-star lineup. Tickets are $50.00 + taxes and fees. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience on JOHN LENNON’s 84th birthday!

New Beginnings: Art Show & Sale 📅 Saturday, January 11th, 2 PM to 4 PM at BAA Gallery, 208 Front St, Belleville.

Join for the opening reception featuring beautiful artwork and handmade artisan goods. Support local artists and find unique treasures for your space!

LIVE MUSIC: Brad Gibson 📍 Meyers Creek Brewing Company, 60 Dundas St E, Belleville, ON 📅 Saturday, January 11, 2025, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM.

Enjoy a night of live music with Brad Gibson and great brews at Meyers Creek Brewing Company!

2025 Maple Madness Call For Participants

Are you interested in participating in the 2025 PEC March Maple Madness as a business? Send and email over to [email protected].

LOCAL SPORTS INSIDER

Belleville Sens & Bell Let’s Talk Night 2025

Join the Belleville Senators and Bell Let’s Talk on January 10, 2025, for Bell Let’s Talk Night as they continue the conversation around mental health awareness. With a $20,000 donation to support local youth programs and mental health initiatives, and representatives from Bell providing giveaways on the CAA Arena concourse, it's a night full of conversation and support. Grab your tickets now at bellevillesens.com and be part of making a difference!

CIVIL NEWS

Belleville

Scam Warning

The municipality is warning residents about scam text messages regarding parking tickets and Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) tickets. The only official communication regarding these matters will be through mail. If contacted by text, phone, or email, do not click on any links or share personal information—these are scams. More here. 

Hybrid Buses Go Into Production

Belleville Transit’s new hybrid electric buses are currently in production. Following the announcement of transit upgrades in 2024, supported by federal and provincial governments, four new hybrid buses are being added. One has been in service since last April, with the next three buses on their way through the production process. Go here to see one on the line.

December Building Stats

Belleville’s 2024 final building report highlights significant growth in construction. In December alone, 31 permits were issued, valued at $5,159,070—more than double December 2023’s $2,364,650. Eight of these were for new residential builds. Over the entire year, 75 permits were issued for new residential construction, with a total value of $116,672,367.

Quinte West

Burn Permit

Don’t forget to renew your burn permit! Visit https://qw.burnpermits.com/ to renew or register for your 2025 burn permit. Please remember all open-air burning in Quinte West requires a permit.

New Year Skate & Social

Quinte West residents are invited to celebrate the New Year with Mayor Harrison and members of Council at the City’s annual free Skate and Social event, Saturday, January 12, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Duncan McDonald Memorial Arena. 

Charities

Registered charities can apply for a tax rebate on eligible properties in Quinte West. The deadline to submit an application is Feb. 28, 2025. Learn more at quintewest.ca/TaxRebates. 

Prince Edward County

The Water and Wastewater Department will be conducting repairs on a sanitary sewer lateral at the intersection of Johnson Street and Hill Street in Picton on January 13, resulting in a closure of Johnson Street east of Picton Main Street from approximately 7 am to 5 pm, with traffic control in place and alternate routes advised. More here.

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