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Derek Howard, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Derek Howard, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Derek Howard is a Midland-based civic issues reporter with a background in print journalism. He has lived within North Simcoe for the majority of his life. Sometimes a stage actor, sometimes a voice actor, and sometimes a fiction novelist; when not scooping news, Derek enjoys diving into futurism by researching cutting edge technologies, while also appreciating the beautiful nature of the surrounding area. On occasion, Derek has been known to livestream play sessions of forgotten 1980s video games to sparse crowds. Derek lives alone and would like to someday have a goldfish named Chaos.

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Recent Work by Derek

Imposing building vacancy tax a no-go in downtown Midland

Imposing building vacancy tax a no-go in downtown Midland

‘They’ve bought their investment, and they should take care of (it),’ coun. says on commercial abandonment, citing 30-year vacancy; Mayor says ‘beefing up our property standards bylaws’ a future option
As tax hike looms, residents stay silent at Midland budget public meeting

As tax hike looms, residents stay silent at Midland budget public meeting

While no one spoke about the budget at meeting, citizens can submit questions or comments before late January deliberations
Midland councillor pitches memorial crosswalk to honour veterans

Midland councillor pitches memorial crosswalk to honour veterans

Sheldon East hope for installation near the cenotaph before Remembrance Day 'to honour the sacrifices our veterans gave up for us Canadians and our freedom'
Tiny leaves Culture Alliance but encourages joint partnerships

Tiny leaves Culture Alliance but encourages joint partnerships

Unknown North Simcoe culture initiative external to Midland said to be discussed this month; exceptions taken by council on harsh language of proposed motion
Tiny report finds most STR owners 'following the rules, not disruptive'

Tiny report finds most STR owners 'following the rules, not disruptive'

'Of the properties that have obtained a licence, 87 per cent (154 properties) do not have any complaints,’ says municipal law enforcement chief
Septage concerns in Tiny awaiting spring grant results

Septage concerns in Tiny awaiting spring grant results

Second part of reader request provides Midland perspective on Tiny Township septage concerns for wastewater treatment plant upgrade and future considerations
Tiny looking to move council meetings to afternoons

Tiny looking to move council meetings to afternoons

Proposed 2 p.m. start time almost certain starting February; council to look at further options before approval for in-person and virtual deputations due to scheduling arrangement
Tiny admin site construction moves closer to becoming reality

Tiny admin site construction moves closer to becoming reality

Various studies on environment, traffic, hydrology and more formally provided prior to site construction; councillors thank staff for providing early public access last month
‘Stop the Build’ stopped once more with Tiny referendum request

‘Stop the Build’ stopped once more with Tiny referendum request

Petition sent to Queen’s Park declined; Helowka points out that names from Korea invalidate credibility; council cites numerous engagements of compromise with opposition over years
Tiny reaction to supposed alt-right presence heated on both sides

Tiny reaction to supposed alt-right presence heated on both sides

‘The wackos are only getting worse,’ says retired RCMP officer and Tiny councillor on increased cyberbullying; protest organizer claims it to be a distraction from administration centre discussion
More work by Derek >