News

The Tom Thomson Art Gallery invites the public to an unforgettable evening, Palette to Palate, where art, cuisine, and culture unite for a uniquely Canadian celebration. Tickets are $75 each and are now on sale for this event, which will take place on Saturday, November 1, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the TOM. Palette to Palate, sponsored by 89.3 CFOS FM, will be an all-Canadian evening featuring “Group of Seven” tasting stations, live music, exclusive vault tours, an art sale and silent auction, plus a Northern Lights Toast to Tom. Guests can also enjoy a cash bar showcasing local Coffin Ridge Winery beverages, celebrating the best of Canadian art, food, and culture.

Construction has officially begun on ‘Harbour West’, a major new housing development that will bring 224 rental apartments to Owen Sound’s west waterfront area.  The groundbreaking ceremony marks an exciting new chapter for the former Black Clawson Kennedy (BCK) property at 1144 1st Avenue West.

The Harbour West project, led by Hansa Financial & Property Management, will transform the long-vacant waterfront site into a six-building residential space featuring 224 rental apartments. Site preparation is underway, including the crushing of existing concrete for reuse on site, as well as groundwork for piling and foundation. The first tenants are anticipated to move in by Fall 2026.

Next week, October 19–25, 2025, is Local Government (Gov) Week, and the City of Owen Sound is joining communities across Ontario in celebrating the people, programs, and services that make local government work every day.

During Local Gov Week, the City of Owen Sound will host an in-person Open House on Monday, October 20, at the Bayshore Community Centre. Residents are invited to meet City Council representatives and staff in person, learn about City services, and ask questions directly. 

As part of Local Gov Week, the City is also encouraging residents to consider volunteering for one of several City committees currently seeking new members. 

November 2025 River District Board of Management Meeting Rescheduled 

The Tom Thomson Art Gallery is pleased to announce the opening of its Fall 2025 exhibitions: Convergence and Bianca Artemida Nam: Where the Willows Weep and Orchids Dream. Both exhibitions open with a public reception on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the TOM.

It’s nearly time for Thanksgiving weekend, and the City is reminding everyone of facility closures, modified hours, and updated programming. 

City Council has approved a historic 25-year strategic plan that lays out key principles and priorities to secure Owen Sound’s future as a livable, safe and enjoyable city for everyone. 

“Vision 2050 charts our City’s future at a time of unprecedented change, challenge and opportunity,” said Mayor Ian Boddy. “It provides a compass bearing for current and future City Councils to set priorities and take action.”

The City of Owen Sound is inviting residents, visitors, and downtown stakeholders to share their thoughts about washrooms in the River District. As part of ongoing conversations about the future of the River District, the City is considering the potential for a standalone public washroom.

Following a well-attended community meeting in July that focused on the state of the River District and strategies to support downtown businesses, Council directed staff to explore options for a new public washroom facility. To help shape the forthcoming report, the City is seeking additional public input and engagement through its online platform, OurCity Owen Sound.