Federal Government Invests Over $3.9 Million For Selwyn's Water and Wastewater Systems

The Federal Government has invested more than $3.9 million in water and wastewater systems in Selwyn, announced on Monday.

(From left to right) John Boyko, Lakefield Ward Councillor; Emma Harrison, Peterborough-Kawartha MP, Sherry Senis, Selwyn Township Mayor; Mary Coulas, Ennismore Ward Councillor and Ron Black, Selwyn Township Deputy Mayor. Photo courtesy of Selwyn Township.

This project will upgrade two sections of sewer infrastructure and install a twin force main beneath the Otonabee River in the Lakefield South Development Area. These improvements will support sustainable growth by maintaining reliable wastewater services, reducing overflow risk, enhancing fire protection and meeting growing capacity demands as the population grows.

“This funding will help us make the critical water and wastewater upgrades needed for the Lakefield South Development Area, while ensuring our systems can reliably serve existing and future residents,” said Sherry Senis, Selwyn mayor. “These upgrades will not only enable new homes but also support the creation of a stronger, more sustainable Lakefield for generations to come.”

The investment is through the Build Communities Strong Fund, which is investing $51 billion in a wide range of infrastructure projects across the country that support economic prosperity, housing, sport, education, health, transit, and climate adaptation.

“The Build Communities Strong Fund is building the infrastructure that Canadians rely on every day,” said Emma Harrison, Peterborough-Kawartha MP. “Today’s investment in water and wastewater infrastructure in the Township of Selwyn will help ensure that critical infrastructure keeps pace with development, supporting a safe, healthy, and resilient community for years to come.

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City Council Approves $25,000 Pilot Program to One City PTBO For Street Cleaning Initiative

City Council has approved providing $25,000 to One City Community Development Services to deliver an eight-week Community Stewardship - Clean Streets pilot program cleaning initiative near the One City shelter and downtown areas this fall.

photo courtesy of Peterborough dbia.

The pilot program will be funded through existing waste collection and operations funding.

The City continues to explore approaches to address the impacts of homelessness on neighbourhoods and public spaces while strengthening relationships among people experiencing homelessness, residents, businesses, service organizations and the broader community.

According to the City, the One City Clean Team initiative would create opportunities for individuals facing barriers to traditional employment, including people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, to contribute directly to improving the neighbourhoods and public spaces where they live, spend time and connect with community. Through visible, supervised work, participants would play an active role in creating cleaner, safer, and more welcoming shared spaces while building positive connections with residents, businesses and community organizations.

Staff propose an eight-week pilot in fall 2026, initially focused on the blocks surrounding the Trinity building and the downtown area bounded by Hunter Street, Charlotte Street, Park Street, and Water Street.

The $25,000 investment would seed the program and confirm the stewardship model. Based on the results, Staff would return to Council in early 2027 with recommendations regarding next steps, including opportunities to expand the model into other identified areas of need through financial participation from businesses, community organizations and other partners.

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Ontario Government Invests $8.1 Million to Support Peterborough Hospital Operations

The Ontario Government has invested $8,193,000 to improve operations and reduce wait times at Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC), announced on Friday morning.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This funding is part of a $1.1 billion investment in Ontario's hospital sector in Budget 2026, A Plan to Protect Ontario, representing a four per cent increase in annual support for the fourth consecutive year according to Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP.

“This investment is a major win for families in Peterborough—Kawartha,” he said. “By strengthening core clinical services at PRHC, we are ensuring our local hospital has the reliable funding needed to shorten wait times, expand diagnostic imaging, and deliver high-quality care closer to home.”

Dr. Lynn Mikula, PRHC president and CEO, said that this investment will support the operations of PRHC’s core clinical services to better meet growing patient needs. She added that the funding will help maintain 24/7 emergency department operations, cushion inflationary and wage pressures and shorten wait times for surgical and diagnostic procedures—including MRI, CT, cardiac, stroke, neuroservices, orthopedics and cataract surgeries.

“Over the last several years, Peterborough Regional Health Centre has been strategically investing into the care we provide and how we provide it,” she said. “Provincial investments like this one are critical to furthering ongoing work in priority areas at PRHC, including the continued growth and expansion of our leading-edge data and analytics program and establishing a command centre to support real-time decision-making and improve access to care across the hospital.”

Over the next 10 years, the provincial government plans to invest approximately $64 billion in major health infrastructure as part of its plan to build more than 50 major hospital projects across the province, adding approximately 3,000 new hospital beds.

“We remain deeply committed to achieving the ambitious goals we have set out for ourselves, and to ensuring we continue to provide the best possible care and service to the 600,000 people we serve across this region,” said Mikula.

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City Council Supports $25,000 Pilot Program to One City PTBO For Street Cleaning Initiative

City Council backs the initiative to provide $25,000 to One City Community Development Services to deliver an eight-week Community Stewardship - Clean Streets pilot program cleaning initiative in the vicinity of the One City shelter and downtown areas this fall.

photo courtesy of Peterborough dbia.

The pilot program will be funded through existing waste collection and operations funding.

An eight-week pilot for this fall was proposed and initially focused on the blocks surrounding the Trinity building and the downtown area bounded by Hunter Street, Charlotte Street, Park Street, and Water Street.

The $25,000 would seed the program and confirm the stewardship model. Based on the results, staff would return to Council early next year with recommendations regarding next steps, including opportunities to expand the model into other identified areas of need through financial participation from businesses, community organizations and other partners.

The City says they will continue to explore approaches to address the impacts of homelessness on neighbourhoods and public spaces while strengthening relationships among people experiencing homelessness, residents, businesses, service organizations and the broader community.

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Three Trent University Researchers Receive $643,477 For Advanced Research Infrastructure

Three Trent University researchers have received a combined $643,477 from the Canada Foundation for Innovation’s (CFI) John R. Evans Leaders Fund for advanced research infrastructure, announced on Friday.

Faculty and student researchers conducting investigations in Trent's Water Quality Centre will benefit from a new state-of-the-art mass spectrometry instrument supported by JELF funding. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

The money allows the researchers to acquire advanced tools and equipment that will strengthen scientific investigation in fields of growing importance to Canada, including aging and dementia care, environmental contaminants and medical innovation, according to Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor

“The federal government is supporting important research for Canada – a nation that values knowledge creation, innovation, and productivity grounded in deep research,” she said. “Thanks to the Canada Foundation for Innovation, Trent researchers can equip campus spaces and labs with state-of-the-art tools and equipment that help attract world-class talent to the University and push discovery further.”

Psychology professor Dr. Raheleh Saryazdi is using the funding to support research in her Cognition, Health, Aging, and Technology (CHAT) Lab at Trent University, Durham. Research includes examining how sensory and cognitive changes affect communication as people age. Using tools such as eye-tracking equipment and a social robot, her team will study communication between people and how older adults interact with emerging technologies. Research findings will help inform new interventions for people experiencing hearing loss or dementia and support the design of more effective technologies for Canada’s aging population.

Chemistry professor Dr. Michael Burt plans to build a globally distinctive laboratory with a titanium-sapphire laser, allowing researchers to observe how complex molecules change during chemical reactions. Research at the Spectroscopy and Optics Lab at Trent Lightsource (SPOTLIGHT) will advance applications in greenhouse gas storage and medicinal chemistry and provide students with training on ultrafast spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and scientific computing.

Dr. Mary-Claire Buell, assistant professor in the Trent School of the Environment and Forensic Science, is using funding to acquire a new high-resolution liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer to be housed in Trent’s Water Quality Centre (WQC), Canada’s most comprehensive mass spectrometry facility. The new instrument will advance the work of her 14-person research lab working to detect and analyze per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—known carcinogens often referred to as “forever chemicals’—and other emerging contaminants in freshwater and coastal systems.

“Modern scientific tools are essential to producing the reliable data that communities need to understand potential risks and consider approaches to mitigation,” said Professor Buell. “The new mass spectrometry equipment has greater sensitivity that will allow researchers to identify contaminants at very low concentrations and determine how much is present in water, soil and traditional food sources. The new instrument will help us train the next generation of researchers while producing evidence that communities can use.”

Shared access to the new mass spectrometer in the WQC expands research and training opportunities for other programs at Trent, including Chemistry, Forensic Science, Biology, Anthropology, and Physics disciplines, as well as for collaborators in government, other universities and the private sector. Over the past year, more than 75 faculty, staff, undergraduate and graduate students and post-doctoral researchers used facilities in the WQC supporting research across Canada and internationally.

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Ontario Government Ends Social Assistance For People Living In Canada Illegally

The Ontario Government is strengthening the rules for Ontario’s social assistance programs to ensure that only people living legally in Canada can receive financial assistance from Ontario Works or the Ontario Disability Support Program, announced on Thursday.

Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawrtha MPP. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Effective immediately, the Provincial government says these regulations will protect taxpayer dollars and ensure that Ontario’s social assistance programs focus on supporting only families and individuals facing financial hardship who are legally authorized to live in Canada.

“Our government will always be there for those that need it most, but taxpayer-funded social assistance should not go to people living in Canada illegally,” said Michael Parsa, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services. “These changes will protect taxpayer dollars and ensure these programs are there for the people who they were intended to support.”

The province has amended regulations under the Ontario Works Act, 1997, and the Ontario Disability Support Program Act, 1997, to clarify who is eligible for social assistance.

Under the updated rules, the following individuals are not eligible for social assistance:

• Individuals who are in Canada illegally; and

• Individuals authorized to remain in Canada on a temporary basis, for example, those here with student visas, work permits or as visitors and tourists.

These changes take effect immediately to prevent unauthorized individuals from receiving these financial supports, ensuring Ontario’s government-funded social assistance programs are reserved for people who meet the province’s eligibility requirements.

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Peterborough Museum and Archives Receives Federal Grant For National Travelling Exhibition

The Peterborough Museum and Archives (PMA) has been awarded a $6,400 grant by the Department of Canadian Heritage through the Museums Assistance Program Exhibition Circulation Fund.

File photo.

The Museums Assistance Program Exhibition Circulation Fund helps museums and heritage organizations increase access to Canadian heritage by supporting travelling exhibitions. 

The grant supports bringing the upcoming temporary exhibition ‘Lost Liberties – The War Measures Act,’ which runs until Sept. 13 at the PMA.

The exhibit examines the impact of Canada's use of emergency powers on civil liberties and the lives of Canadians. Through historical research, artifacts, personal stories, and educational programming, the exhibition encourages visitors to explore the balance between national security and individual rights during periods of crisis.  

The exhibition aims to reach diverse audiences and provide opportunities for reflection on the historical consequences of emergency legislation, including the human experiences behind these significant national events.  

“I am pleased to see the Peterborough Museum and Archives receive this support through the federal government's Museums Assistance Program," said Emma Harrison, Member of Parliament for the riding of Peterborough. "Investments like this help bring important exhibitions such as “Lost Liberties – The War Measures Act” to our community, giving residents the opportunity to reflect on pivotal moments in Canada’s history. I am grateful that residents of Peterborough will have access to this important experience, and I encourage everyone to take the time to visit!”  

“We are grateful to the Department of Canadian Heritage for its support in bringing important exhibitions like “Lost Liberties – The War Measures Act” to Peterborough,” said Community Services Co-Chairs Alex Bierk and Lesley Parnell. “Museums play a vital role in preserving and sharing our collective history, and this exhibit explores an important and complex part of Canada's past. By encouraging reflection and dialogue about civil liberties, democratic values and the impact of government decisions during times of crisis, this exhibition will offer meaningful learning opportunities for visitors of all ages.” 

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City Receives Receives Second Funding Installment After Completing Housing Accelerator Fund Action Plan

The City of Peterborough has completed all seven initiatives under its Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) Action Plan and has received a second funding installment of $2.67 million from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, announced on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of The City of Peterborough.

The City has received a total of approximately $5.3 million through the federal program, which supports municipalities in creating more housing opportunities by improving planning processes, removing barriers to development and creating healthy, walkable communities.

“The City shares the Government of Canada's goal of increasing the supply and range of housing options available in our community,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “Through the Housing Accelerator Fund, we've modernized our planning policies, streamlined development approvals and improved how we deliver services. These changes will help support the construction of more homes, including affordable housing, and position Peterborough for future growth.”

The funding recognizes the City’s work to make it easier and faster to build housing, while expanding housing options and supporting the development of more affordable homes.

“The Housing Accelerator Fund rewards local governments for pursuing changes that cut red tape and build more homes faster. HAF encourages local solutions that create more housing options by driving innovation, removing barriers and incentivizing updates to planning systems,” said Emma Harrison, Peterborough-Kawartha MP. “Peterborough proposed an ambitious Housing Action Plan which included rezoning to encourage the creation of missing middle housing, leveraging surplus and underused public land for housing and embracing technology to streamline permitting processes. The City recently received its second HAF installment of nearly $2.7 million, reflecting the successful implementation of its plan.”

The City’s completed initiatives include:

• Introducing a city-wide Community Planning Permit By-law to replace the City’s 1972 Comprehensive Zoning By-law and make the development approvals process more efficient;

• Reducing or removing residential parking requirements to support more housing options;

• Allowing up to four residential units on eligible properties and encouraging missing middle housing, such as townhomes and small apartment buildings;

• Launching a public e-permitting portal to make it easier and more efficient to submit and track development applications;

• Improving building application processes to support new construction methods and help move housing projects forward more quickly;

• Making City-owned land available to support housing development and partnerships that create affordable housing; and

• Updating the Community Improvement Plan to provide stronger incentives for affordable housing projects.

On June 29, Peterborough City Council approved the city-wide Community Planning Permit By-law, completing the final milestone in the City’s Action Plan within the required timeline.

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Ontario Government Invests Over $116,000 For Local Senior Support

Six local organizations in the Peterborough-Kawartha area have received a combined total of $116,196 to help local seniors stay active, safe and socially connected within their communities.

The Ontario government is investing up to $7 million for more than 320 Seniors Community Grants across the province this year, helping seniors stay fit, active, healthy, and socially connected close to home. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The funding is through the Ontario government’s Seniors Community Grants program.

The funding recipients in Peterborough-Kawartha are:

The City of Peterborough: $24,998

• Project: Be Prepared (Third Revision)

• Overview: Updates materials for the Be Prepared program to equip seniors with clear, practical guidance to recognize and respond to frauds, scams, severe weather events, and intimate partner or family violence, while strengthening emergency preparedness

Alzheimer Society of Peterborough Kawartha Lakes Northumberland and Haliburton: $24,251

• Project: The Social and Night Out Program

• Overview: Provides an inclusive environment where individuals living with dementia, caregivers, and families can socialize, share meals, dance, and build lasting connections in a safe, welcoming atmosphere

Mapleridge Recreation Centre (Senior Citizens Association of Peterborough): $24,541

• Project: Connected Communities: Seniors' Digital Literacy Program

• Overview: Offers hands-on workshops using computers, tablets, and smart boards to build seniors' confidence in using technology safely, covering scam prevention, safe use of AI tools, and accessing online services

Community Care Peterborough: $24,500

• Project: Senior Connectors – Phase 2: Peer Navigation & Follow-Up

• Overview: Supports trained senior volunteers hosting community kiosks to help older adults across the City and County of Peterborough access vital local services, reducing isolation and promoting independence

Douro-Dummer Township Public Library Board: $17,906

• Project: The Douro-Dummer Public Library Learning Commons Phase II

• Overview: Enhances the community hub's programming, user experience, and partnership opportunities, providing a gathering space for rural seniors and community members of all ages

St. Joseph's at Fleming: $2,100

• Project: Community Connections for Seniors

• Overview: Provides monthly, supervised community outings with accessible transportation for long-term care residents to enjoy cultural and recreational experiences, helping them remain engaged in the broader community

“Seniors have built the vibrant, close-knit communities we enjoy today, and ensuring they have access to programs that keep them active, safe, and connected is a top priority,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “Whether it's preventing online scams, supporting those living with dementia, or helping long-term care residents get out into the community, these six local projects will make a real, tangible difference in the everyday lives of older adults right across our region.”

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Ontario Government Gives Peterborough Over $1.6 Million Through the Building Faster Fund After Reaching Housing Targets

The Ontario Government has rewarded the City of Peterborough with $1,653,397, which provides funding to municipalities that achieve at least 80 per cent of their provincially designated housing targets, announced at City Hall on Wednesday.

City Staff and local politicans with Rob Flack (middle) recieving the $1.6 million for reaching 80 per cent of Peterborough’s housing targets. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The funding came through the third round of the Building Faster Fund.

Last year, Peterborough broke ground on 545 new homes, exceeding its annual target by 16 per cent. The funding will help the City of Peterborough build more homes and community infrastructure while advancing the province’s plan to protect Ontario by investing in projects that support economic growth and keep workers on the job according to Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

“Our government is relentlessly focused on creating the conditions municipalities need to meet the growing demand for more homes,” he said. “That is why we have introduced bold legislative changes and introduced measures such as the Development Charge Reduction Program. We appreciate partners like Peterborough who are committed to working alongside us.”

Announced in August 2023, the Building Faster Fund is a three-year, up to $1.2 billion program that helps municipalities build more homes faster. The fund rewards municipalities that make significant progress toward their housing targets by providing funding for the infrastructure needed to support new housing and growing communities.

“The City of Peterborough is taking action to support housing construction by reducing development charges and streamlining our development approvals process through the implementation of a Community Planning Permit System,” said Jeff Leal, Mayor of Peterborough. Together, we're creating the conditions for builders to create homes and jobs in our community.”

Flack added that the Ontario Government is also helping to speed up the construction of new homes and infrastructure by streamlining development processes and reducing unnecessary costs, most recently through the Building Homes and Improving Transportation Infrastructure Act, 2026 and the HST Relief Implementation Act (Residential Property Rebates), 2026.

As part of the up to $8.8 billion Canada-Ontario Partnership to Build, Ontario has introduced the Development Charge Reduction Program, which will provide funding for housing-enabling infrastructure projects over a 10-year period. Funding will be prioritized for municipalities that reduce and maintain reductions on development charges.

The agreement also supports removing HST on new homes from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027, which will save homebuyers up to $130,000 on the cost of a new home. Collectively, these measures help to enhance affordability, support builders as they get shovels in the ground on new homes and keep workers on the job.

“We know that increasing the housing supply is the best way to make life more affordable for seniors and young families in Peterborough,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “Exceeding our provincial targets means our community has earned a $1.65 million reward. This funding goes straight into building the foundation—the pipes, roads, and local services—needed to keep our building momentum going.”

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