City Council Unanimously Against By-Law 25-126 to Assume Power From Peterborough DBIA Board of Management

City Council has voted unanimously against passing By-law 25-126 to assume a power from the Board of Management for the Central Area Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) during their meeting on Monday evening.

Nour Mazloum, Peterborough DBIA executive director during the Peterborough and the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce Meet the Candidates event for the federal election earlier this year. File photo.

The by-law, if passed, stated as follows:

1. On Feb. 21, 2017, Council approved the recommendations in closed session Report OCS17-003 and passed By-law 17-013 authorizing execution of a settlement agreement between the Board of Management for the Central Area Downtown Business Improvement Area, The Corporation of the City of Peterborough (City) and another party to an appeal to the then Ontario Municipal Board against Official Plan Amendment Number 173 and Zoning By-law 16-053 (Settlement Agreement).

2. Pursuant to the Settlement Agreement, the City makes 20 annual payments to the DBIA of $150,000 each for a total of $3,000,000.

3. DBIA is a local board of the City.

4. Pursuant to section 216 of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. 25, a municipality may change a local board including assuming a power or duty of the local board.

As a result of City Council’s vote, The Corporation of the City of Peterborough by the Council has enacted the following:

1. The City hereby assumes the power of DBIA to receive from the City annual payments of $150,000 each pursuant to the Settlement Agreement.

2. Any by-laws or resolutions of DBIA pertaining to the exercise of the assumed power are deemed to be repealed or amended to the extent necessary to permit the City to receive the said annual payments of $150,000 and to spend the proceeds thereof subject only to the City’s performance of DBIA’s obligations respecting such payments pursuant section 3 of the Settlement Agreement.

3. This By-law is in effect when it is passed.

The DBIA issued a strong warning to City Council not to pass the by-law on Friday afternoon.

“Downtown businesses have been navigating higher operating costs, increased taxes, tariffs, and the lingering impacts of COVID-19,” said Nour Mazloum, Peterborough DBIA executive director. “This is precisely the time when they need more support, not less. We have been transparent, responsible, and accountable with every dollar we manage. That’s why this by-law is so concerning; it breaks trust. If the City can change direction without discussion on something this important, what will they do next? Trust requires year-over-year consistency. Right now, that’s what’s at risk.”

The DBIA released a statement regarding the decision on Tuesday afternoon:

Dear DBIA Members,

On behalf of the Board of Directors and our entire team, I want to extend my deepest thanks for your incredible support over the past week. Because of your engagement, your voices and your commitment to the future of our downtown, City Council voted unanimously against By-law 25-126.

This outcome was only possible because our members showed up.

You delegated, you wrote letters, you asked questions and you made it clear that the vibrancy of downtown and the independence of the DBIA matter deeply to this community.

Your efforts reaffirmed what makes downtown Peterborough so special; a strong, united business community that cares, collaborates and stands together when it counts.

Thank you for your advocacy, your time, your belief and most importantly your trust in the work we do every day. We will continue to champion the needs of our members, strengthen our partnerships with the City, and build a downtown that reflects the energy, creativity and resilience of the people who drive it.

This was a meaningful win for all of us; and we achieved it together!

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Peterborough DBIA Issues Strong Warning to the City Regarding Risks of By-Law 25-126

The Downtown Peterborough Business Improvement Area (DBIA) has issued a strong warning regarding By-law 25-126, which is scheduled to go before City Council for approval during their meeting on Monday evening.

Nour Mazloum, Peterborough DBIA executive director during the Peterborough and the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce Meet the Candidates event for the federal election earlier this year. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

According to the DBIA, if passed, the by-law would shift authority over funds that have long supported downtown stability, revitalization, safety and economic activity – potentially weakening the DBIA’s ability to deliver services at a time when downtown businesses are already facing unprecedented pressures.

The DBIA says they were not consulted on the development of the by-law. Nour Mazloum, Peterborough DBIA executive director, said she raised questions about how this change would affect the organization’s ability to carry out its mandate during an already challenging economic period.

“Downtown businesses have been navigating higher operating costs, increased taxes, tariffs, and the lingering impacts of COVID-19,” said Mazloum. “This is precisely the time when they need more support, not less. We have been transparent, responsible, and accountable with every dollar we manage. That’s why this by-law is so concerning; it breaks trust. If the City can change direction without discussion on something this important, what will they do next? Trust requires year-over-year consistency. Right now, that’s what’s at risk.”

She also stated that the DBIA has a long-standing, collaborative working relationship with City staff and remains committed to maintaining that partnership but emphasized that major financial or governance changes require proper consultation.

“By-laws have consequences and this one has them,” she said.

“You can’t pass a by-law without considering the consequences. This one has them,” said Sacha Lai-Svirk, DBIA Chair. “A by-law like this sends a message about the City’s commitment (or lack of commitment) to stability, predictability, and partnership. After the progress we’ve made together, introducing doubt right now is strategically harmful. It risks undoing years of work to rebuild confidence with the City.”

Lai-Svirk emphasized that the DBIA is not opposed to tough conversations but decisions of this magnitude must be informed, transparent, and collaborative.

“I’ve run a small business downtown for 20 years. I know exactly what uncertainty does to a business,” she said. “The last thing our businesses need is confusion about the City’s support.”

Lai-Svirk also addressed an online comment that the by-law ‘does not change anything.’

“If this by-law doesn’t change anything, then passing it is unnecessary,” she explained. “And if it does change something, the City needs to explain exactly what — and why.”

Lai-Svirk added that the DBIA warns that shifting administration of the funds to the City creates the possibility of future reductions or redirection, undermining the stability provided through existing commitments through 2037.

“We have stability until 2037. There is no reason to revisit this now. This by-law should be set aside until then,” she said.

The DBIA has highlighted the following strategic implications if the by-law is passed:

Passing By-law 25-126 without review or consultation risks:

• Undermining downtown stability during a volatile economic period

• Creating uncertainty for 400+ businesses who rely on DBIA support

• Damaging trust between the City and downtown stakeholders

• Sending a negative signal to investors, developers, and new businesses

• Interrupting momentum at a time when the downtown has finally turned a corner

• Jeopardizing future collaborative initiatives, including:

• permanent lighting strategy

• downtown boundary expansion

• high-speed rail (Alto) integration

• Event Centre activation

• new streetscape, placemaking, and safety programs

“These are the conversations we should be having,” said Lai-Svirk. “Not a by-law that destabilizes the very partnership that makes these projects possible.”

The DBIA is formally requesting that Council:

1. Vote against the by-law

2. Conduct a full legal and strategic review

3. Engage directly with the DBIA, AON Inc. and downtown stakeholders

4. Reassess the by-law in the context of downtown’s economic recovery

“We are prepared to defend the future of downtown businesses,” said Sacha Lai-Svirk. “If Council chooses to move forward without consultation – AON Inc. and the DBIA, are prepared to take every appropriate step to protect downtown businesses and the commitments made to this community,” said Lai-Svirk. “But our hope is to resolve this collaboratively. We want decisions that strengthen our momentum, not undermine it.”

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Student Transportation Services of Central Ontario Appoint New CAO

Kevin Forrest has been appointed the new Chief Administrative Officer of Student Transportation Services of Central Ontario (STSCO), effective Dec. 1, announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of PVNCCSDB.

Forrest has nearly three decades of experience in student transportation and community service in the role, including two decades within STSCO according to a press release. He has served in a variety of positions since the consortium was established in 2005, beginning as a Transportation Route Supervisor, a Transportation Safety Lead and most recently as Manager of Operations.

Before joining STSCO, Forrest worked as a Transportation Route Supervisor for the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board from 2003 to 2005. His career in transportation began in 1997 at Trentway-Wagar Inc., where he later advanced to Manager of the Peterborough School Bus Division for Coach Canada. Before that, he served his community as a civilian radio operator with the Ontario Provincial Police.

“I am honoured to take on the role of Chief Administrative Officer for STSCO,” said Forrest. “Having spent many years working within this organization and alongside our community partners, I believe that student transportation is a community effort. I am grateful for the ongoing partnership between STSCO and the families of our students, the local bus and taxi operators and their staff, our school boards, trustees and school teams, as well as many other local agencies. By working together, we can continue to support safe, dependable travel for our students each and every day.”

He succeeds Roy Wierenga, who is retiring from the position.

Wierenga served as STSCO’s CAO since 2023 and has been involved in Ontario student transportation for over 35 years. His early work involved Trentway-Wagar Bus Lines and roles with the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board, STSCO in 2005 and leadership positions with both the Ottawa Student Transportation Authority and Student Transportation of Peel Region.

Wierenga played a role in provincial student transportation initiatives including the implementation of Ontario’s amber warning light system and contributing to committees within the Ontario Association of School Business Officials and the Canadian Standards Association.

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PTBOSpotlight: Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles

Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.

This week, we are featuring Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles. It is owned and operated by Ross Elson.

Located on 182 Charlotte St. in Downtown Peterborough, Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles has autographed memorabilia, jerseys, collectible sports cards and more.

“We look forward to building a community of collectors right here in Peterborough, offering an extensive inventory of sports cards, autographed memorabilia, jerseys and more,” said Elson. “Our team offer their experience and knowledge to help you find what you are looking for. Whether you are collecting your favourite team, completing your checklist or on the hunt for rare cards or memorabilia.”

Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles have joined forces with MNT Grading Inc. and is now also an Authorized PSA Dealer. They provide a full-service drop-off for your collectible sports cards to be graded. Grading your cards protects your investment and has been proven to increase the value of cards in the secondary market.

“As far as services go, being an authorized PSA Dealer is a very big deal for a shop, we are the only one in our area and it took us the better part of a year to go through the process of becoming authorized,” explained Elson.

Elson's passion for collecting hockey cards started when he was a kid, starting with the 1979-80 O-Pee-Chee set. After having children, his interest was reinvigorated and he collected cards with them. After years of collecting and visiting expos, the hobby quickly grew into a business which launched in 2019.

While you can collect from your favourite major sports teams, Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles also adds in the local flavour as a spot to collect Peterborough Petes apparel, memorabilia and more.

“We have an excellent relationship with the Peterborough Petes and after each game we sponsor and Autograph Signing Table,” explained Elson. “Kids, Families, and Fans line up after the game for a different payer each night who comes out to sign autographs. With the Petes we provide co-branded Peterborough Petes Hockey Cards free of charge to the fans for the specific player that participates each night. In addition, fans can bring their own memorabilia; such as a jersey or puck for the player to sign, also free of charge.”

Want to get together with other collectors to find that special something? Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles regularly host trade nights at the shop for those to get together during the NHL season and share in the hobby.

To learn more about Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles, find it online:

Website: www.sportcollectibles.ca
Facebook: Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles

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PTBOSpotlight: Shannon McCracken Voice Studio

Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.

This week, we are featuring Shannon McCracken Voice Studio. It is owned by singer, actor, voice-over artist and teacher Shannon McCracken.

McCracken has performed across Canada and is equally at home in plays and musicals, film and TV and on the concert stage. Since opening her voice studio in 2014, she has brought her years of experience to those exploring their voices.

“I primarily teach voice lessons but also workshops and masterclasses, with a focus on singing, acting through song and audition technique,” explained McCracken. “As a teacher, I’ve been an adjudicator for the Kiwanis Music Festival, worked as the voice and music director for Thomas A Secondary School's musical theatre program and created and directed Theatre Art Training Academy’s summer intensive program and show.”

McCracken has launched her new kids' singing course, “Explore Your Voice!”

This dynamic singing course is designed to ignite a love for music and singing in kids aged 6-12. Through fun, interactive lessons, children will explore their vocal potential, gain new skills, access more sound and range and boost their confidence.

Whether you are a complete beginner or a budding vocalist, this program provides a supportive, encouraging environment to discover the joy of singing.

“Join the adventure and watch your child's voice soar,” said McCracken. “Explore Your Voice! is more than just lessons; it's a journey of musical discovery and self-expression. Let the singing begin!”

The Voice Studio recently opened its online store, “The Studio Shop,” which offers online coaching packages, courses, content and gift cards.

She also started the “Members Only Online Studio,” calling it her most exciting project. Here is where you can train, grow and discover your voice. From audio exercises to video classes, series, and monthly check-ins, you can now learn at your own pace. When you’re ready, be a part of a community of singers who are here to cheer you on.

“I believe that everyone can sing,” concluded McCracken. “Voice lessons are a great way to gain confidence, become more comfortable in both your body and voice and they provide you with a creative outlet to express yourself fully.”

To learn more about Shannon McCracken Voice Studio, find it online:

Website: www.shannonmccracken.com
Instagram: @shannonkmccracken
Facebook: Shannon McCracken

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Railyard Development On East City's Hunter Street Officially Complete

Ashburnham Realty’s Railyard Development in East City on Hunter Street has officially been completed.

Photo courtesy of Ashburnham Realty.

“Our team is very happy to see the results of their efforts, and we are very fortunate to have long standing relationships with the local trades used,” said Paul Bennett, Ashburnham Realty owner.

With the final building now complete, half of the building has already been leased. Decorated by Michelle Beattie and Leon’s Peterborough, there are four furnished suites currently available for living.

“The tenants within the Railyard buildings have really taken ownership and created a community atmosphere offering game nights, potlucks and holiday-themed gatherings,” said Bennett. “There are groups of residents that bike together while others enjoy a leisurely walk along the trail. What we admire most about these buildings is that everyone knows your name and is welcoming.”

Photo courtesy of Ashburnham Realty.

The Railyard has occupants such as BMO Wealth Management, Duane Grant Thornton offices and The Railyard Cafe.

Nearby amenities include Ashburnham Ale House Foodland Grocery Store, Hard Winter Bakery, Black’s Distillery, Law & Orders and more.

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Burnham Street In Lakefield Reopened; Kawartha Home Hardware Gets Temporary Location

The Township of Selwyn has reopened Burnham Street in Lakefield to traffic, following the community’s recovery from the Home Hardware fire.

pHOTO COURTESY OF kAWARTHA hOME hARDWARE.

This reopening, along with Queen Street and Burnham Street, grants full access through the Village’s downtown core. Pedestrian detours remain in place along the section of Queen and Burnham Streets immediately adjacent to the fire-affected site, where fencing will stay up until all site restoration activities are complete.

The Township is now working to reinstall two streetlight poles and fixtures that were removed for firefighter safety.

Home Hardware is opening a pop-up store downtown at 25 Queen St., according to a Facebook post on Tuesday. The store will have a paint department, their popular hardware essentials and seasonal merchandise. An opening date has not yet been announced.

“Lakefield’s heart is its people and its sense of community,” said Mayor Sherry Senis. “As we enter this special time of year, we hope everyone will come downtown, support local businesses, and take part in the many festive activities that showcase our Village’s spirit.”

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Enter the Digital Realm As "Another World" Virtual Reality Arena Opens In Downtown Peterborough

Whether fighting a war, hunting zombies or throwing a party, the public can enter virtual reality together, as Another World VR Arena opened its doors in Downtown Peterborough early last month.

Patel demonstrates one of his 15 games, “Kernel: Bunker” using one of his virtual reality headsets. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Owned by Manan Patel and located at 379 George St. N., the business offers 15 virtual reality experiences and can accommodate parties of up to 12 people. The new entrepreneur says his company is ideal for birthday parties, work parties, group outings or even suitable for those playing alone. Patel adds he has something that caters to all kinds of tastes.

“You can play as a team, against other teams, you can play escape rooms and we have entertainment options for all ages and groups of people,” he explained.

Game options include shooters, simulations, party games, adventure games and more.

@ptbo_canada Editor David tests himself in Virtual Reality as he tries to survive in a zombie apocalypse as on of Another World VR Arena’s games. The business had recently opened early last month and has offers 15 different VR experiences. ##ptbocanada##journalism##news##fyp##virtualreality ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

Patel came to Peterborough from India as an international student six years ago. He already completed computer engineering in his homeland but did a graduate program at Fleming College. He studied virtual reality as part of his program and his interest in it developed over time.

“I started working using virtual reality and developed some of the games (in school),” he explained. “We also connected with local organizations and tried to create VR simulations for them.”

With all the knowledge he gained from school, he wanted to use that to open a business.

“For the last five years, roughly, I've been developing games for VR, so that's why I thought about doing something like this,” said Patel.

Customers can book their sessions online and can optionally select their game in advance.

The following are Another World VR Arena’s business hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

• Friday: 4 p.m. to midnight

• Weekends: Noon to midnight

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DBIA Rewarding Those to Shop Local In Downtown Peterborough With Holiday Shopping Passports

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) has returned its Holiday Shopping Passport program to reward those who shop local in Downtown Peterborough, announced on Wednesday.

Diners enjoying their meal at Gerti’s on Hunter Street in Downtown Peterborough. Photo courtesy of the DBIA.

This year, nearly 200 businesses are participating in the Holiday Shopping Passport program to collect stamps and win big prizes. Every $10 spent at a participating location earns a stamp, and a completed passport enters shoppers into early-bird draws on Dec. 3, 10 and 17 for a $500 Boro Gift Card, with a grand-prize draw of $1,500 on Jan. 7.

The Boro Gift Card can be used at over 150 locally owned businesses in the core, including a variety of shops, spas, cafes and restaurants.

New this year are Double Stamp Fridays, beginning Nov. 29 and continuing on Dec.5, 12, and 19. Participating businesses will reward customers with double the stamps on all eligible purchases.

“Our Holiday Shopping Passport program is about more than just prizes, it’s about celebrating the people and businesses that make downtown Peterborough special and unique," says Nour Mazloum, DBIA executive director. “Each passport stamp represents a meaningful contribution to our community and to our local economy. This year, we’re thrilled to grow our program into East City, welcoming even more businesses and more shoppers to experience the magic of shopping local.”

“The Holiday Shopping Passport always brings such great energy downtown,” says Jacquelyn Craft, The Neighbourhood Vintage owner. “It’s a wonderful program that brings people into small businesses and creates excitement around shopping locally during the holiday season. We love being able to reward folks for choosing to spend their hard-earned money where it truly makes a difference – in supporting our community. It really is such a special time of year in our downtown core.”

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PTBOSpotlight: Dante's Gourmet Burrito

Welcome to PTBOSpotlight! Every Friday, this segment showcases a business or organization in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. You will have the opportunity to learn more about the people behind the organization and the work they do for our community.

This week, we are featuring Dante's Gourmet Burrito. It is owned by Eva’s Delight Inc.

Located at 195 Simcoe St. (across from the Peterborough Bus Terminal), Dante's Gourmet Burrito has served fresh Mexican cuisine including burritos, quesadillas, tacos, nachos and more.

“We offer a wide variety of freshly made protein options along with multiple tortilla choices, including high-protein and gluten-free options,” said Surendra Patle of Dante's Gourmet Burrito. “All our sauces are made in-house with no preservatives and we take pride in delivering healthy, flavorful meals to our customers.”

The business first opened in 2009 as one of Peterborough’s first burrito establishments.

“Over the years, it has grown to become one of the most popular and award-winning restaurants in the area, known for its quality, freshness and commitment to great taste.”

A Downtown Peterborough staple, Dante's Gourmet Burrito has been supporting the local economy and community.

“Dante’s works closely with local farmers and small businesses, sourcing fresh ingredients from local suppliers to prepare our food,” explained Patle. “We also show appreciation to our community by offering special discounts to public servants, frontline workers, senior citizens and students.”

Whether you are craving barbacoa, carnitas, pollo asado, chorizo, tofu or any other of their selections, Dante's Gourmet Burrito can customize your meal the way you want with everything made in-house.

“Our mission is to continue serving delicious, wholesome Mexican food while supporting the community that has supported us for so many years. At Dante’s, everything we make is crafted with care, freshness, and a passion for great food.”

To learn more about Dante's Gourmet Burrito, find it online:

Instagram: @dantes_gourmet_burrito
Facebook: Dante's Gourmet Burrito

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