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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Peterborough County Hosting Winter Maintenance Operator Job Fair On Aug. 22

Peterborough County invites job seekers to explore career opportunities in winter operations at an upcoming Winter Maintenance Operator Job Fair on Aug. 22.

File Photo.

The fair runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Best Western Hotel, Otonabee Meeting Room, 84 Lansdowne St. E. in Peterborough. 

The event is designed for individuals interested in learning more about a rewarding seasonal career helping keep County roads safe throughout the winter season. Whether you are an experienced equipment operator or considering a new career path, this is an opportunity to connect directly with Peterborough County staff and learn about employment opportunities in winter maintenance. 

Minimum qualifications include:

• Grade 12 diploma or equivalent

• Valid Class D Driver's Licence with Z endorsement and a clean driver's abstract

• Ability to lift up to 22 kg (50 lbs) 

Attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Learn about Seasonal Winter Maintenance Operator positions

• Discuss training and licensing requirements

• Meet current employees and hiring representatives

• Gain insight into the recruitment process

• Learn about compensation, schedules and position expectations 

“Winter Maintenance Operators play a critical role in helping keep our communities safe and connected during the winter months," said Rod Porter, general manager, operations. “This job fair provides an opportunity for prospective applicants to ask questions, meet our team and learn firsthand what it's like to work for Peterborough County.”

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County Road 24 and Woodland Drive to Get All-Way Stop

An all-way stop will take effect at the intersection of County Road 24 (also known as Centre Line/Carnegie Avenue) and Woodland Drive starting on Monday, announced on Tuesday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

According to the County, Council approved the change following a traffic engineering review that determined the intersection meets provincial warrant criteria for an all-way stop based on traffic volumes.

The new traffic control is expected to improve safety by clarifying right-of-way for all approaches, and is intended to reduce the risk of collisions.

The intersection will have new stop signs on all approaches, a flashing overhead 
beacon and updated pavement markings to help alert motorists to the change.

Peterborough County reminds motorists to:

• Reduce speed when approaching the intersection

• Come to a complete stop at all approaches

• Yield to vehicles that have entered the intersection first

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Peterborough County Beginning Final Round of Noxious Weed Spraying

By Scott Arnold

Peterborough County is set to begin the third and final round of its 2026 noxious weed spraying program on Monday, August 10th, weather permitting.

Peterborough County is beginning the third and final round of its 2026 noxious weed spraying program, with this round focusing on poison ivy

The County says the spraying is being carried out to eradicate noxious weeds identified by its Weed Inspector on County and Township-owned road allowances and municipal properties.

This final round will focus specifically on poison ivy.

Residents who have additional concerns or requests for noxious weed spraying can submit them to the County at roads@ptbocounty.ca or through the County's website. Any new requests will be considered as part of the 2027 Noxious Weed Spraying Program.

The County also has an online map showing where planned spraying will take place in 2026, allowing residents to check locations throughout the County.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Peterborough County Supports Local Business Through New Lang Pioneer Village Museum Retail Initiative

Peterborough County is supporting local businesses through a retail initiative at Lang Pioneer Village Museum, allowing local artisans and makers to showcase and sell their products to thousands of visitors each year.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough County.

The Museum has expanded its gift shop offerings to feature products from businesses and artisans across Peterborough County and the Kawarthas. The initiative provides visitors with authentic, locally made items while creating a valuable marketplace for local entrepreneurs.

Lang Pioneer Village Museum — which was recently nominated once again for the Attractions Ontario Top Small Museum Award — selects local artisans who use traditional and heritage skills to create products that appeal to today’s customers. Most items featured in the gift shop are locally made, allowing visitors to discover products that reflect the region’s history, creativity, and craftsmanship. Museum guests are increasingly stopping in to browse, ask questions about the artisans and their work, and purchase products, resulting in increased visitor engagement and gift shop revenue.

Welcoming more than 23,000 visitors annually, Lang Pioneer Village Museum is one of Peterborough County’s premier tourism attractions and an award-winning cultural destination. Its strong visitor traffic provides local businesses with greater exposure and opportunities to grow their sales.

“This initiative is a wonderful example of how Peterborough County works collaboratively to support local businesses,” said Warden Bonnie Clark. “Through our Economic Development Strategy, we have committed to supporting local entrepreneurs and creating opportunities for them to succeed. By connecting local makers with one of our most visited tourism attractions, we are showcasing the incredible talent that exists throughout our communities while strengthening our local economy.”

Peterborough County’s Economic Development Strategy identifies business retention, expansion, and entrepreneurship as key priorities. The County supports these priorities through tourism marketing, destination campaigns and economic development services that connect entrepreneurs with funding opportunities, business-planning assistance, workforce resources and training programs.

“Our role is to help create opportunities for local businesses to succeed,” said Tracie Bertrand, Peterborough County general manager of tourism and communications. “Tourism and Economic Development work hand-in-hand through marketing, business development services and new opportunities for sales and exposure. Lang Pioneer Village Museum’s retail initiative demonstrates what can happen when County departments collaborate toward a common goal.”

The initiative also enhances the visitor experience by giving guests an opportunity to take home a piece of The Kawarthas while directly supporting local entrepreneurs.

“Visitors increasingly want authentic experiences and products that tell the story of a destination,” said Elizabeth King, Lang Pioneer Village Museum manager. “By featuring locally made products in our gift shop, we provide a more meaningful visitor experience while supporting the talented artisans and small businesses that contribute to the unique character of Peterborough County.”

The retail program connects tourism, culture and business development while celebrating the people and businesses that make The Kawarthas a vibrant place to live, work and visit.

This initiative is the first feature in ‘Working Together for Business Success,’ a series highlighting how Peterborough County departments, programs and assets are collaborating to support local businesses, strengthen communities and advance the County’s Economic Development Strategy.

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Peterborough County-City Paramedics Encourage Water Safety This Summer

With lakes, rivers, pools and waterways to enjoy throughout Peterborough and The Kawarthas this summer, Peterborough County-City Paramedics are encouraging everyone to make water safety a priority.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough County.

While many water-related incidents are preventable, they can have life-altering consequences for individuals, families and communities.

“With more than 300 lakes and countless opportunities to enjoy the water across Peterborough and The Kawarthas, we want everyone to put safety first every time they head out on the water,” said Trisha Bromfield, Chief of Paramedics, Peterborough County-City Paramedics. “A lifejacket, active supervision and good decision-making can make all the difference. Water-related emergencies are often silent and happen in a matter of seconds and are often preventable. We want everyone to enjoy a safe summer and return home with great memories - not a preventable tragedy.”

Peterborough County-City Paramedics encourage everyone to:

• Never swim alone; always swim with a buddy

• Wear a properly fitted lifejacket when boating or participating in water activities

• Avoid alcohol and drugs while swimming or operating watercraft

• Closely supervise children and remain alert around water

• Know your swimming abilities and stay within your limits

• Learn CPR and basic emergency response skills

• Check weather conditions and follow posted safety signage

Parents and caregivers are reminded that active supervision is the most effective way to keep children safe around water. Children should remain within arm's reach of a responsible adult when swimming or playing near water. Inflatable toys and water wings are not substitutes for approved personal flotation devices.

Those enjoying the Trent-Severn Waterway should also be aware of important safety regulations. Swimming or diving in navigation channels is prohibited, and individuals must remain at least 40 metres away from lock gates, dams and bridges. Strong currents, changing water levels and hidden hazards can create dangerous conditions, even for experienced swimmers.

Choosing designated swimming areas, wearing appropriate safety equipment and remaining aware of surroundings can help ensure a safe experience for everyone on the water.

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Facilitated Discussions Underway For Support Future Growth Opportunities In Peterborough Region

After the City of Peterborough’s request for future employment and residential land need requirements, the Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing has responded by appointing a Facilitator from the Provincial Land and Development Facilitator’s Office to guide discussions among the City of Peterborough, Cavan Monaghan Township and Peterborough County.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Under the direction of the Facilitator, the City of Peterborough and Cavan Monaghan Township have completed independent Land Needs Studies conducted by third-party consultants. These confidential studies provide critical data to support informed discussions regarding future growth opportunities within the region.

Representatives from all participating municipalities and stakeholders attended the first facilitation meeting to review and share the findings of the Land Needs Studies on Thursday. Additional meetings are planned in the coming months to further examine the data and discuss potential options for accommodating future growth.

This collaborative process aligns with both provincial and local priorities by supporting responsible growth, increasing housing opportunities, creating employment lands, fostering economic development, and ensuring communities are positioned to meet future needs.

At this stage, discussions remain confidential to allow all parties to engage in open and constructive dialogue. Peterborough City Council will continue to receive confidential updates regarding the progress of the facilitation process. Should the participating municipalities reach a mutually supported proposal requiring approval from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, details would be made available to the public as part of a future community engagement and approval process.

“Our focus as a region is on enabling growth, housing construction, employment lands for job creation, and opportunities for residents,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “Peterborough is committed to finding solutions that contribute to shared economic growth and long-term sustainability. I want to personally thank the Province of Ontario for its strong leadership on this critical need for housing and economic prosperity in the Peterborough Region.”

However, Peterborough County is aware of the City’s facilitated discussions, citing the only had one meeting on Friday. At that point, the City presented their Lands Needs Study; the County and Township have not yet had a similar opportunity. 

As the County is in negotiations with the City, facilitated by the Provincial Facilitator and bound to a confidential process, they will abide by the terms of the agreement that all parties signed.

“I am very disappointed that Mayor Leal has decided to issue a release contrary to the agreement,” said Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County Warden.” We take agreements and confidentiality as paramount. To my knowledge, there has been no proposal put forward by the City, and this release seeks to undermine the agreed-upon collaborative process.”

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Peterborough County-City Paramedics Encourage Water Safety In Peterborough and The Kawarthas This Summer

As everyone enjoys the lakes, rivers, pools and waterways throughout Peterborough and The Kawarthas this summer, Peterborough County-City Paramedics encourage everyone to make water safety a priority.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough County.

According to Peterborough County, each summer, Peterborough County-City Paramedics respond to water-related emergencies across Peterborough and The Kawarthas.

“With more than 300 lakes and countless opportunities to enjoy the water across Peterborough and The Kawarthas, we want everyone to put safety first every time they head out on the water,” said Trisha Bromfield, Chief Peterborough County-City Paramedics. “A lifejacket, active supervision and good decision-making can make all the difference. Water-related emergencies are often silent and happen in a matter of seconds and are often preventable. We want everyone to enjoy a safe summer and return home with great memories - not a preventable tragedy.”

Peterborough County-City Paramedics encourage everyone to:

• Never swim alone; always swim with a buddy

• Wear a properly fitted lifejacket when boating or participating in water activities

• Avoid alcohol and drugs while swimming or operating watercraft

• Closely supervise children and remain alert around water

• Know your swimming abilities and stay within your limits

• Learn CPR and basic emergency response skills

• Check weather conditions and follow posted safety signage

Parents, guardians and caregivers are reminded that active supervision is the most effective way to keep children safe around water. Children should remain within arm's reach of a responsible adult when swimming or playing near water. Inflatable toys and water wings are not substitutes for approved personal flotation devices.

Those enjoying the Trent-Severn Waterway should also be aware of important safety regulations. Swimming or diving in navigation channels is prohibited, and individuals must remain at least 40 metres away from lock gates, dams and bridges. Strong currents, changing water levels and hidden hazards can create dangerous conditions, even for experienced swimmers.

Choosing designated swimming areas, wearing appropriate safety equipment and remaining aware of surroundings can help ensure a safe experience for everyone on the water.

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Construction to Begin In Havelock On County Road 48

Peterborough County and the Township of Havelock-Belmont-Methuen are partnering to start Phase 2 of the multi-year reconstruction of County Road 48 (George Street East) within the Village of Havelock.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Construction is scheduled to begin this month with overall Phase 2 work continuing through to 2028.

Phase 1 of the project began in 2024 and is anticipated to be completed by mid-2026.

This phase included reconstruction of George Street East from Quebec Street to George Street Park, as well as Quebec Street from George Street East to Ottawa Street (MTO Highway 7).

The County Road 48 reconstruction project is funded in part by the Ontario government through the Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program (MHIP). This investment of over $8 million will help enable the construction of approximately 1,500 new homes in the Township of Havelock-Belmont-Methuen.

Peterborough County and the Township of Havelock-Belmont-Methuen appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation as this important infrastructure project moves forward.

Phase 2 will be delivered in multiple parts over three years, including:

• Part 1 (2026) – George Street East from Park Street to William Street and William Street from George Street East to Ottawa Street (MTO Highway 7)

• Part 2a (2027) – George Street East from George Street Park to Park Street

• Part 2b (2027) – George Street East from William Street to Civic 71

• Part 2c (2027) – Mary Street from George Street East to Ottawa Street (MTO Highway 7)

• Part 2d (2027) – Orange Street, partial reconstruction from George Street East

• Part 3a (2028) – George Street East from Civic 71 to Mary Street

• Part 3b (2028) – Oak Street, partial reconstruction from George Street East

Construction activities for 2026 (Part 1) will take place from June through December.

Scope of Work:

The project includes:

• Replacement of the storm sewers, sanitary sewers and watermain

• Installation of a new asphalt roadway

• Construction of new concrete sidewalks, curbs and gutters

• Updated line painting

Construction Hours:

Monday to Friday 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Pedestrians & Businesses:

• Pedestrian access maintained at all times.

• Businesses will remain open, with alternative parking arrangements provided.

• Deliveries and pick-ups will be coordinated as needed.

Traffic & Services:

• Staged road closures will be required; please expect delays and follow detours.

• Access for emergency vehicles will remain available.

• Garbage & recycling will be collected as usual.

Residents and businesses will be notified in advance of any temporary interruptions to driveways or water service.

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Peterborough County Warden Recieves Rob Ford Community Leader Award for Cross-Border Leadership through EOWC

For her leadership and service, Peterborough County Warden Bonnie Clark has been named the recipient of the Rob Ford Community Leader Award, announced on Thursday.

Photo courtesy of the Eastern Ontario Wardens' Caucus.

The award recognizes her leadership, dedication to public service, and significant contributions to strengthening communities through her work advancing cross-border collaboration at the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC) as its Chair.

The Rob Ford Community Leader Award is presented annually by the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative and Earl Provost, Ontario’s Agent-General in Chicago, on behalf of the Government of Ontario.

The award honours individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to public service, regional advocacy, and grassroots engagement.

According to the County, Clark has helped elevate the voice of rural Eastern Ontario on the international stage through her work with the Caucus. She also helped advance partnerships between Canada and the United States, particularly across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence regions.

A formal presentation took place earlier this month at the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative Annual Conference.

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