St. Jacobs Farmers' Market may get aid from senior governments

The federal and provincial government are looking at ways to financially assist in rebuilding the main building at the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market, which burned to the ground early Monday morning.

Woolwich Mayor Todd Cowan said he’s been in discussions with both levels of government, including talks with Premier Kathleen Wynne.

"They’re basically saying: 'Let’s figure out if there’s any type of tourism money,'" said Cowan. "We’re just waiting for this investigation to finish before we get going."

Kitchener-Centre MPP John Milloy also told CBC News that the province would help in any way it can. He added that support would go to Woolwich Township, the market’s owners and vendors.

"Off the top of my head I can think of a number of different programs in the economic development field," said Milloy. "If there is that need, we’ll try to facilitate that."

The fire caused an estimated $2 million in damage, and about 60 vendors who used space in the building to sell their wares are affected.

Investigation continues 

At a media briefing Tuesday evening, the Ontario Fire Marshal’s office said it is still in the process of pinpointing the ignition source of the blaze.

Supervising investigator Lonnie Schubert said a criminal cause has not yet been ruled out, but he believes it is unlikely.

"We don’t rule out anything until we’re finished the investigation," said Schubert.

Schubert added that investigators hope to finish their work by Wednesday.