As the YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin puts the finishing touches on its Project Tiny Hope at 21 Kains Street – now officially christened Hope Crossing – the organization is not resting on its laurels.The YWCA announced this week its proposed development at 53 Hiawatha Street in St. Thomas to support its vision of affordable seniors’ housing.
To kick-start the undertaking, the City of St. Thomas is donating a parcel of land adjacent to the Scott Street Municipal Parking Lot.
This will be paired with a contribution of $2.7 million through the Affordable Housing Grant Program and Housing Accelerator Fund.
The proposed 40-unit apartment development will build upon the YWCA’s ongoing investment in creating safe, inclusive, and affordable housing solutions that foster independence, connection and dignity for residents, according to a media release.
We caught up with Executive Director Lindsay Rice earlier this week to get an insight into the YWCA’s latest project geared to those individuals 55 years of age and older who are seeking stable, accessible, and affordable places to call home.
“We own that parcel, at 53 Hiawatha Street,” confirmed Rice. “That was gifted to us in 2023. And, of course, that city property was just sitting adjacent to us, that empty space, a bit of a parking lot, and then some empty grass area.
“So in some conversations with the city, we proposed an idea of new affordable housing, and they came on board really quickly.“We want to ensure that the most vulnerable are not left behind and that as we grow, we are also growing affordable housing because the need and the demand is there.”
Rice continued, “I think St. Thomas has been really keeping that bird’s-eye view of what the affordable housing spectrum looks like and how folks can enter at different points.
“You know, when you start from shelter to transitional housing, to affordable housing, to affordable housing with supports, affordable housing without supports, full rental market and full home ownership.
“We really want to make sure that the affordable piece with supports is not missed. And that’s where the YWCA comes in. All of our residents are matched with a housing-based case manager, and our staff are trained to support them with professionalized services around life stabilization, goal setting, pathways to economic security, improving social and family connections, creating that community sense of belonging, looking at opportunities for skills training and upgrading, access to employment, supporting their mental health, all of those things.
“So when residents sign on to live with YWCA housing, it’s a little bit different. It’s not simply the affordability piece of it, but it’s the one-on-one supports, the group-based supports, and the peer support connection.”
“So living in the same building will create that natural opportunity for them to connect, create different friendships and have some mutual support. So we’re really excited about that piece as well.”
Rice outlined the types of programs the YWCA offers.
“We deliver adult education classes from September to June in St. Thomas and Aylmer. We also offer a youth independence program and a women’s program around financial empowerment, which is a 12-week program.
“So we have some of those inherent group-based programs as well that we can obviously make internal referrals, which is a nice opportunity as well to support our residents.
“So living in the same building will create that natural opportunity for them to connect, create different friendships and have some mutual support. So we’re really excited about that piece as well.”
And what is the vision for 53 Hiawatha Street?
“It’s a three-and-a-half-storey structure. So that half is that lower level, but with full windows. And then three storeys on top. Forty units in total, all one-bedroom, 20 per cent of them accessible.”
As is the case with Hope Crossing, there is a very defined plan for the composition of the resident population.
With a minimum of 50 per cent female residents, 25 per cent Indigenous and First Nations.
“And then we’ll be looking at a mix of seniors, probably about 75 per cent seniors, 25 per cent young adults under the age of 30. And we’re really excited about that opportunity because we know seniors and young adults are at increased risk of loneliness and social isolation.
“So living in the same building will create that natural opportunity for them to connect, create different friendships and have some mutual support. So we’re really excited about that piece as well.”
The existing church on site will be repurposed into a program house, explained Rice.
“With the program house being renovated, having that communal space for residents just to drop in, have casual conversations, having some formalized programming, having a mix of that. We’re excited for that to be part of the development as well.”We asked Rice to elaborate on the Indigenous component.
“We’re working closely with Heather Talbot. She is the Indigenous lead for the Elgin Ontario Health Team. And we’re really going to be working closely with our Indigenous partners to co-design the program house in partnership with them, looking for their guidance.
“And also we want to ensure that it’s a welcoming place for Indigenous programming, cultural gatherings, and ceremonies.
“We’re going to get things moving, and all of our partners are on the same page. We’re all very keen to get things moving as quickly as we can. Things in the construction world aren’t super fast, but our team is very dedicated to prioritizing this project.”
“It is intended to foster healing, belonging, and meaningful community collaboration.
“We’re going to be looking at the outdoor space as well. So we’re really excited about that part. We are hoping to have some raised fruit and vegetable gardens as well.
“That really draws the community together to be able to plant and harvest fruit and vegetables together at your own pace. So we’re hopeful that’ll be part of the outdoor space.”
Development partners include Devonshire Consulting, Doug Tarry Homes, Studiodyer Architects, the Elgin Ontario Health Team and the City of St. Thomas.
Soil remediation will be the first step in the project.
“We’re going to get things moving, and all of our partners are on the same page. We’re all very keen to get things moving as quickly as we can. Things in the construction world aren’t super fast, but our team is very dedicated to prioritizing this project.”
Catching up on Hope Crossing, Rice advised that full occupancy will be achieved by October.
“And then our program house will be built this fall, and our children’s playground will go in. So we’ll be fully, fully done by year-end.”
The development of 53 Hiawatha Street “Represents another meaningful step toward a future where everyone has access to housing that allows them to thrive,” stressed Rice.
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COURT DECISION SENDS A CLEAR MESSAGE
Thirty-nine-year-old James Alexander Brown of St. Thomas, who was charged with attempted murder in a case of domestic violence on May 16, 2023, yesterday (July 17) was designated a dangerous offender in court.
His partner, at the time, a 24-year-old female, was hospitalized with life-threatening injuries. The quick action of police officers is being credited with saving her life.
Police say the two had been involved in an altercation that led to the shooting and the man fleeing the apartment at 341 Talbot Street.The next day, forensic investigators found the body of a dog in the apartment.
It is suspected to have suffered gunshot wounds.
In most cases, the dangerous offender designation results in an indeterminate sentence, meaning there is no predetermined release date.
In a statement yesterday (July 17), St. Thomas Police Chief Marc Roskamp stressed, “The judicial decision . . . represents a significant outcome for community safety and for the victim who has endured the devastating impact of his violent criminal behaviour.
“Mr. Brown has demonstrated, over the course of much of his life, a persistent pattern of violence and criminal conduct. His repeated offending, culminating in his most recent egregious convictions, clearly established the need for this designation.
“The court has recognized what years of offending have demonstrated – that he poses an ongoing and unacceptable risk to public safety.”
“While no court decision can undo the harm that has been inflicted, today’s designation sends a clear message that the safety of our community and the protection of future victims remain the highest priority for the St. Thomas Police Service.”
Roskamp continued, “A Dangerous Offender designation is the most serious designation available under Canadian law for violent offenders. Today’s designation provides the strongest protection available for our community.
“Any future release is not automatic and will occur only if the Parole Board of Canada is satisfied that the offender no longer presents an undue risk to public safety. Every person has the right to feel safe and to be safe in their community.
“Today’s decision reinforces the fundamental principle that individuals who repeatedly commit serious violent offences must be held accountable for their actions and that the principle of community and victim safety remains paramount.”
Roskamp concluded, “My thoughts remain with the victim and her family who have suffered life-altering consequences because of Mr. Brown’s actions. Their courage and resilience throughout the criminal justice process should never be overlooked. I hope today’s decision provides them with a measure of reassurance that their voices were heard.
“I also want to recognize the exceptional work of the St. Thomas Police Service investigators and our policing partners – Crown Counsel, Victim Services professionals, and all those who contributed to this lengthy and complex process. Their professionalism, persistence, and unwavering commitment to justice were instrumental in achieving this outcome.”
“While no court decision can undo the harm that has been inflicted, today’s designation sends a clear message that the safety of our community and the protection of future victims remain the highest priority for the St. Thomas Police Service.”
THE PITCH TO SAVE EMSLIE FIELD GRANDSTAND
Under the threat of demolition as early as September, voices are being raised in opposition to tearing down the historic grandstand at Emslie Field.
An impassioned letter this week from a mother of two St. Thomas Minor Baseball players has become the lightning rod in the movement to save the off-limits grandstand.
More on that letter in a moment.
In a report to city council last November, Cody Montgomery, Manager of Parks and Forestry, noted, “Due to ongoing concerns regarding its structural integrity and compliance with AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act) standards, the city retained POW Peterman Consulting Engineers to complete a formal structural assessment.”
And for safety’s sake, the grandstand was closed.At that meeting, it was Coun. Gary Clarke, who introduced an alternate plan of action.
“I guess my approach would be to tear down the present grandstand.”
Crowds of several thousand spectators were not uncommon in the heyday of Emslie Field; however, that is but a distant memory.
Clarke continued, “Minor baseball is using the field now and even in a tournament, they are not getting those kinds of numbers.
“If you look at what’s been done in Chatham or Woodstock, they’ve gone to a new enclosed area, much smaller in size, but it still would keep a large number of people out of the sun.
“It would be accessible and, again, we could still dedicate the field itself and the space to Bob Emslie, but not at the cost that we’re looking at for repairing the site.”
In the 2026 city budget book, three options were presented.
A full rehabilitation would cost in the neighbourhood of $1.2 million.
Undertaking minimal structural rehabilitation and AODA upgrades would run in the neighbourhood of $800,000.
And what was referred to as A Fresh Start, demolishing the structure and installing “modern, accessible amenities” like concrete bleacher pads, would cost approximately $600,000.
At that same council meeting, Mayor Joe Preston observed, “I’d like us to get a little bit more research as to what could also be done.
“But I’m a bit distraught that we keep getting things in the fall that are talking about the capital budget, and until the capital budget is done, I don’t know why we can speak of what will happen.
“I’d rather this council look at budget time. From what I’m reading here, we’ve got a little bit more work to do before we can come back with a real plan.”
We understand St. Thomas Minor Baseball is holding a planning meeting this weekend and that there has been communication with mayoral candidate Jeff Kohler on the future of the grandstand.
On Thursday, we spoke with Sandra Graham, author of the aforementioned letter.
“And really mine is a call to action to the community. I’m nobody in this. I’m really just a parent who has experienced the facility and knows how wonderful it is.
“And I just saw that there was a potential to lose something really great. And I’m glad that the community has responded in the way that they have. And I think we’re onto something.”
“My concern is that this just kind of quietly came up and there was no brainstorming or what else can we do, nor was there very little recognition of what it is we’re dealing with.”
She’s had an outpouring of response to her letter, including comments from an umpire and player who noted that he constantly hears from players and their parents about how Emslie Field is their favourite place to play.
He added, “It feels like a real major league ballpark, not to mention it gives fans and umpires a place to hide from the sun. He said this tournament season, particularly, has been brutal (with the grandstand closed).”
And as a player, he came from Strathroy, and he was always excited to come and play at such a cool diamond.
Graham continued, “Before I posted, I reached out to both mayoral candidates just to say this is something that matters in our community. And I did hear from Jeff Kohler. And he’s actually been responsive on Facebook as well.
“He’s posted something on St. Thomas Happenings, and it looks like he’s ready to take action and listen to the community. So it’s very encouraging.”
She continued, “Well, and that’s another thing that came from the post: lots of ideas, lots of people wanting to participate and who are also wanting to support the cause. So, you know, I think we will get together and figure this out.
“My concern is that this just kind of quietly came up and there was no brainstorming or what else can we do, nor was there very little recognition of what it is we’re dealing with.”
Here is Graham’s letter in its entirety.
St.Thomas Minor Baseball board members and other passionate supporters have worked hard trying to protect the Emslie Field Grandstand, part of our local history.
“Yet at every home game, we are reminded of what is at stake as we sit beside the beloved grandstand now roped off and facing demolition.
“The city council of St Thomas made a decision, with no collaboration from stakeholders, to demolish St Thomas Emslie Field grandstand. Today, this cherished field remains an active and well-loved community facility.
“Players, families, and fans from across the region come to Emslie Field not only for the baseball, but for the unique experience of gathering in a park that reflects St. Thomas’ sporting history and civic pride. A central part of that experience is the historic grandstand. Now deemed unsafe, the structure is at risk of demolition.
“For the local baseball community, this is not simply about preserving an old building — it is about protecting a defining feature of Emslie Fieldand retaining an asset that distinguishes St. Thomas from other baseball venues.
“The grandstand offers practical and lasting value. To demolish it would be short-sighted. It provides shaded seating on hot summer days, shelter during rain, improved sightlines for spectators, and functional space beneath the structure for equipment storage.
“More importantly, it enhances the overall experience for families, athletes, and visitors who spend long days at the park.
“At present, the City of St. Thomas is prepared to move toward demolition rather than restoration. Earlier plans would have removed the structure before the baseball season, forcing children, teams, and spectators to navigate an active construction zone throughout the summer.
“At present, the City of St. Thomas is prepared to move toward demolition rather than restoration. Earlier plans would have removed the structure before the baseball season, forcing children, teams, and spectators to navigate an active construction zone throughout the summer.
“Thanks to community advocacy, demolition has been postponed until after Labour Day, giving supporters a critical opportunity to make the case for preservation.
“There is still time to act. St. Thomas is a community that values its history, invests in its youth, and takes pride in the places that bring people together. Restoring the grandstand would preserve the character and beauty of this historic facility while ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy it. With thoughtful investment, this landmark could serve the community for another century.
“There is still time to act. St. Thomas is a community that values its history, invests in its youth, and takes pride in the places that bring people together. Restoring the grandstand would preserve the character and beauty of this historic facility while ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy it. With thoughtful investment, this landmark could serve the community for another century.
“Perhaps you are the person who can inspire others to step forward. Be the hero this community needs. Together, we can preserve an irreplaceable piece of St. Thomas history and ensure that future generations continue to enjoy the Emslie Field grandstand for years to come.”
“The community now has an opportunity to come together and demonstrate the value of restoring the Emslie Field grandstand. This is about more than nostalgia; it is about preserving a meaningful public space, supporting local sport, and showing young athletes that their community believes in investing in places that matter.
“As local elections approach, we hope candidates will step forward with a commitment to protecting what matters to our community. St Thomas deserves leaders willing to explore every possible solution to save it.
We need sponsors, donations, ideas, and strong community commitment. Where are the local business owners, service clubs, major donors, community leaders, philanthropists, and heritage supporters?
“As local elections approach, we hope candidates will step forward with a commitment to protecting what matters to our community. St Thomas deserves leaders willing to explore every possible solution to save it.
We need sponsors, donations, ideas, and strong community commitment. Where are the local business owners, service clubs, major donors, community leaders, philanthropists, and heritage supporters?
“Please, come together to help save this landmark. Based on figures shared publicly by the city, the estimated cost (difference) to save the grandstand is only $400,000. Estimates suggest restoration could cost up to $1.2 million, while demolition alone could cost $800,000. Additional work would still
be needed after demolition, further narrowing the cost difference.
be needed after demolition, further narrowing the cost difference.
“These figures show why restoration should be carefully considered as a worthwhile long-term investment. In the end, saving the grandstand is not an unreasonable cost for preserving such an important piece of our community’s history.
“I am not a member of the baseball board or any official committee. I am simply a community member who sees something meaningful at risk.
“I am not a member of the baseball board or any official committee. I am simply a community member who sees something meaningful at risk.
“If you have the resources, the connections, the skills, or the financial ability to help, please reach out and become part of the solution. If you own a business, represent an organization, service club or are in a position to sponsor or donate, your support could make a lasting difference.
“Imagine the opportunity to leave a legacy by helping save this historic landmark. A major sponsor could even have the opportunity to have the grandstand named in recognition of their contribution, creating a lasting tribute that would be seen and appreciated by generations of families, athletes, and visitors for the next century.
“Perhaps you are the person who can inspire others to step forward. Be the hero this community needs. Together, we can preserve an irreplaceable piece of St. Thomas history and ensure that future generations continue to enjoy the Emslie Field grandstand for years to come.”
Graham is correct in reminding that this is an election year and surely no one on council, or those hopefuls seeking a seat in the council chamber, would wish this to turn into a hot-button issue.
It was not that long ago that the city’s new twin-pad arena and police station became flashpoints in the electoral process.
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