Peterborough County OPP Detachment Board Selects Douro-Dummer Mayor As New Chair At Inaugural Meeting

During the Peterborough County OPP Detachment Board's inaugural meeting, Heather Watson, the Township of Douro-Dummer mayor, was acclaimed as Chair for 2026, announced on Feb. 9.

Photo courtesy of Heather Watson.

Watson has served as Vice-Chair for the Board since its first meeting in October 2024. Member John Braybrook was acclaimed as Vice Chair for 2026. He is a Councillor for the Municipality of Trent Lakes and served as Chair for the Board since October 2024.

“I am deeply honoured by the trust placed in me to serve as Chair of the Peterborough County OPP Detachment Board.” said Chair Watson. “This Board carries significant responsibility in ensuring transparent, accountable, and community‑focused policing across our region. I look forward to working collaboratively with my fellow Board members and the OPP as we set priorities that reflect the needs and values of the communities we serve.”

Three new Community members, Sarah Frank, Dave Taillefer and Sandra Vaughan, were sworn in after participating in a full recruitment process last year.

Also sworn in representing Curve Lake First Nation was Jeffrey Jacobs. He was re-elected to the CLFN Council as Deputy Chief in 2025 and appointed to the Detachment Board.

Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP; Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County Warden and Sherry Senis, Peterborough County Deputy Warden were also in attendance.

The Peterborough County OPP Detachment Board is a 15-member board involving seven municipalities, two local First Nations, three community representatives and three provincial appointees by the Peterborough County OPP Detachment.

The next Board meeting is on April 27 at 1 p.m. at the Peterborough County Courthouse.

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Otonabee Memorial Community Centre Selects Mural Artwork For Main Entrance

The Parks and Recreation Committee for the Otonabee-South Monaghan Township has selected Ellen Cowie’s artwork to grace the main entrance of the Otonabee Memorial Community Centre.

Ellen Cowie’s winning design. Photo courtesy of Otonabee-South Monaghan Township.

The long-time resident’s art will appear on a 24-foot-by-eight-foot mural. Cowie is deeply connected to the farming, sporting, Indigenous and artistic communities – all of which are represented in her design. She moved to Keene from Peterborough in 2019.

Since 1991, her work has been shown in fine art galleries, with her career highlight being two of her $200 coin designs produced by the Royal Canadian Mint.

Second prize went to Piper Lubbock, 8, for her colourful submission celebrating her love of hockey.

Community members are invited to help paint the mural before it is mounted on the arena’s outer wall this spring. This community project aims to bring residents together as they create a new landmark. Anyone wishing to participate can email OSMMuralProject@gmail.com.

Several artists submitted designs during a call for entries late last year after the committee approved the concept.

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Peterborough County Celebrates Canada’s Agriculture Day and 10 Years of National Recognition

Peterborough County is celebrating Canada’s Agriculture Day on Feb. 10, marking the 10th anniversary of this national recognition and highlighting the role that food producers, processors and agriculture-related businesses play in the community.

file photo.

These services aid in sustaining strong, healthy communities and encourage Canadians to participate in conversations about food, farming and the future of agriculture.

As agriculture is a cornerstone of Peterborough County’s economy, heritage and identity, the County says they remain committed to ensuring local agriculture continues to thrive.

“Our farms and food producers are the heart of our community and a source of immense pride for Peterborough County,” said Peterborough County Warden Bonnie Clark. “As we mark the 10th anniversary of Canada’s Agriculture Day, we honour the people, families and businesses who feed our region and contribute so much to our local economy. Our commitment is unwavering; we will continue to support a strong, resilient agricultural sector for generations to come.”

Peterborough County’s economic development plan, G.R.O.W. - Growth, Resiliency, Opportunity and Workforce - identifies agriculture as a key pillar. Several strategic programs are in place to help strengthen and diversify the agri-food sector including:

Kawartha Local Food Wholesale Project:

• Designed to help producers and commercial buyers including restaurants, retailers and institutions connect more easily through the Green Circle Food Hub, increasing the use of locally grown food across the region.

Kawartha Choice Farm Fresh:

• A well-established marketing brand that supports farm-gate sales, farmers’ markets and local food visibility, helping consumers identify and purchase products from area farms.

On-Farm Diversified Use Program:

• Supporting smaller farms interested in adding tourism or complementary commercial activities, helping them grow sustainably while celebrating the region’s local food and farming culture.

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Selwyn Township Lifts Significant Weather Event Declaration

The Township of Selwyn’s Significant Weather Event declaration made on Sunday has been lifted, announced on Tuesday morning.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough County.

The decision came after the Township reviewed Environment Canada weather reports and observed current weather conditions, sidewalk and road conditions.

The end of the event means that the Township of Selwyn believes the weather has subsided enough to meet the required maintenance objective timelines.

Drivers and pedestrians are reminded to use caution when navigating in winter weather and that there is no overnight parking on all Township roads to allow for safe and effective snow clearing.

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Nominations Now Open for the 2026 Peterborough County Community Recognition Awards

Peterborough County is inviting residents to help celebrate the people, groups and organizations who strengthen the community by submitting nominations for the 2026 Community Recognition Awards.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough County.

Every two years, the County Community Recognition Awards acknowledge community members who demonstrate dedication, leadership, compassion and innovation across Peterborough County.

Residents may nominate any volunteers, leaders, youth, businesses and organizations living in Peterborough County. Nominees must not have received a Peterborough County Community Recognition Award in the same category within the past 15 years.

Award Categories:

Accessibility Recognition: A group, individual or business that has contributed to accessibility improvements within the County of Peterborough. (One County-wide award)

Acts of Heroism: An individual who has displayed bravery in the face of personal risk, injury or death at an incident that took place either in the County of Peterborough or was to the benefit of a Peterborough County resident and which action did not occur while the individual was acting in their professional capacity while on duty. (Unlimited nominations)

Agricultural Leadership: Any individual or farm enterprise is eligible to be nominated in this category. Factors to be used to assess the nomination will include innovations, agricultural promotion, and the recognition the County receives through its operations. It may consist of involvement in agricultural organizations. Leadership in the agricultural community will also be considered.

Business Leadership: Any new and successful initiatives of both new and established businesses that have made outstanding contributions to the County, including tourism promotion. (One County-wide award)

Community Volunteer of the Year: Any group or individual who has demonstrated community involvement or volunteerism within the County.

Environmental/Sustainability Recognition: Nominees will have demonstrated innovation and/or leadership in environmental conservation, stewardship and sustainability by having:

• developed innovative green technologies or

• started businesses to support and encourage sustainable living, or
  donated conservation lands or easements or

• undertaken ecosystem restoration or research or

• educated others about the importance of protecting the environment or

• achieved the overall vision for sustainability through one of the identified theme areas set out in the Sustainable Peterborough Plan: Agriculture and Local Food; Climate Change; Cultural Assets; Economic Development and Employment; Healthy Communities; Land Use Planning; Natural Assets; Energy; Transportation; Waste; and Water. (One County-wide award)

Heritage Preservation: An individual or group that has promoted heritage and preserves the history of Peterborough County. This could include, but is not limited to, Fair boards, Women’s Institutes, historical societies, etc. A community or public or private organization that has reached a significant milestone, such as the 100th anniversary, is also eligible for this award. (One County-wide award)

Leadership in Arts and Culture: A group or individual who has demonstrated excellence in the arts, bringing recognition to the County.

Sporting Excellence: Any team or individual who has won a provincial, national or international sporting event. (One County-wide award)

Youth: A person aged 25 years or younger who has contributed to the betterment of the community and/or school environment.

Nomination forms are available at the Peterborough County office (470 Water Street, Peterborough), local municipal offices, township fire halls, police service boards, schools, libraries, chambers of commerce and Community Care organizations. They can also be submitted online through the County website.

Completed and signed nomination forms, along with supporting documentation, must be submitted to the County Clerk by March 2.

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Peterborough County Approves 2026 Budget Increase of 5.29 Per Cent

Peterborough County Council approved the 2026 Budget which includes a 5.29 per cent increase in the levy during their council meeting on Wednesday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The budget increase covers:

• A dedicated infrastructure levy set at 2.5 per cent

• An increase of 2.80 per cent for the Operating Budget, which includes a 1.2 per cent increase for County Operations and a 1.6 per cent increase for Shared Services.

This increase in the levy translates to a tax rate increase of 3.93 per cent or approximately $17.35 for every $100,000 in residential assessment.

“County Council has continued to invest in our critical infrastructure with our commitment to a 2.50 per cent dedicated infrastructure investment to support our roads and bridges – vital to providing the links for our residents and businesses,” said Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County warden. “Staff brought forward a very responsible operational increase, below inflation this year, which focuses on our commitment to service delivery reviews and operational excellence.”

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Peterborough County Economic Development and Tourism Launch Kawarthas Holiday Digital Passport

Peterborough County Economic Development and Tourism has launched the second initiative in The Kawarthas Quest series: the Holiday Magic Digital Passport.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough County.

According to the County, following the success of the Lakefield Scavenger Hunt, the first Quest, the Holiday Magic Digital Passport brings a festive new way for residents and visitors to enjoy the spirit of The Kawarthas while supporting the small businesses that shape our communities.

The event uses the Driftscape app (or mobile browser) to collect Holiday Magic Digital Passport rewards those who choose to shop across Peterborough County with points, ballots and the chance to win prizes throughout the season.

Shopping at participating businesses earns secret passwords to enter for points. For every 10 points, receive one ballot for the multiple weekly gift card draws and the grand prize.

A grand prize of $1,500 in gift cards is being drawn on Jan. 7. Points can be collected until Dec. 24, weekly draws start Nov. 24 and grand prize ballot submissions are on Dec. 31.

“There’s something truly special about holiday shopping in The Kawarthas - the decorated storefronts, familiar faces, and the joy of finding the perfect gift close to home,” said Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County Warden. The Holiday Magic Digital Passport brings that experience to life, encouraging all of us to embrace the season, share time with loved ones, and support the local businesses that are the heartbeat of our communities.”

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Lakelands Public Health's Seasonal Water Sample Courier Service Paused For the Winter Starting Nov. 27

The Township of North Kawartha and the Municipality of Trent Lakes are pausing their seasonal well water test sample drop-off program locations for the winter, with Nov. 27 the last day to drop off test samples.

Photo courtesy of Lakelands Public Health.

During the winter months, residents who regularly use the seasonal drop-off sites can drop off their well water test samples at the following nearest location(s):

• Lakelands Public Health, 185 King St., Peterborough
    – 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Thursday
    – 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon, Friday

• Public Health Ontario Laboratory, 99 Hospital Dr., Peterborough
    – 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday

• Havelock-Belmont-Methuen Township Office, 1 Ottawa St., Havelock
    – 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Thursday

Lakelands Public Health recommends regular testing of your drinking water. Water samples are checked for two types of bacteria: total coliforms and E. coli.

If E. coli is found, it means the water may be contaminated with fecal material that can cause serious stomach and intestinal illnesses. While anyone can get sick from contaminated water, young children, seniors and people with weakened immune systems are more vulnerable.

“Well water should be tested year-round, especially after a thaw or heavy rain,” said Chris Eaton, Public Health Inspector, with Lakelands Public Health. “Testing your water is the best way to ensure it is free from pathogens and that your treatment system is effective.”

Seasonal service at both locations will resume in early April 2026.

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Lakefield's Queen Street to Reopen Friday Morning Following Structure Fire Damage

The Township of Selwyn expects to reopen Queen Street in Lakefield on Friday at 8 a.m., announced on Thursday evening.

Photo courtesy of Selwyn Township.

Following the progress in demolishing the fire-affected structures, the contractor has confirmed that work can safely continue without needing Queen Street to remain closed.

The demolition site remains fenced off while work is completed and the lots are backfilled to create a level, safe site. The sidewalk in front of the affected area will remain closed.

To facilitate safe pedestrian movement, the on-street parking spaces directly in front of the site will be converted into a temporary pedestrian walkway, providing a continuous route to the intersection and nearby businesses on this side of the street. 

Burnham Street, including the sidewalk, between Queen Street and Charlotte Street, will remain closed as demolition activities continue in the area. However, there will be access from the Charlotte/Burnham Street intersection to the parking area adjacent to Divine Craft.

Two streetlights on Queen Street immediately adjacent to the affected buildings were removed during firefighting operations to protect the lighting heads. These will be reinstalled once the demolition is complete.

“Reopening Queen Street represents a positive milestone for our community,” said Mayor Sherry Senis. “Although the streetscape will look very different for some time, we are encouraged by the resilience and spirit that Lakefield continues to demonstrate. We urge residents and visitors to support our local businesses and enjoy the warmth and hospitality that make Lakefield so special.”

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Ontario Government Invests Over $12 Million For Infrastructure In Peterborough City and County

The Ontario Government is investing $12,011,899 in the City and County of Peterborough to help renew and rehabilitate critical infrastructure.

In 2026, Ontario will allocate $400 million in OCIF funding to help 423 small, rural and northern communities address critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges, water and wastewater systems. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The funding will be delivered through the 2026 Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF) as part of the government’s more than $200 billion capital plan to protect Ontario by building key public infrastructure that will strengthen the economy and keep workers on the job in the face of tariffs and economic uncertainty according to MPP Dave Smith.

“This provincial commitment ensures our communities receive the reliable, predictable funding necessary to maintain and rehabilitate critical infrastructure assets such as local roads, bridges, and essential water and wastewater systems,” he said. “By empowering our local councils with this resource, we are stabilizing costs, strengthening the foundational services that residents depend upon, and facilitating continued economic growth throughout the county.”

The OCIF provides funding for local infrastructure projects in municipalities with populations under 100,000, rural and northern municipalities, as well as for Local Services Boards that own water or wastewater systems.

“Peterborough County thanks the Government of Ontario for its continued investment in local infrastructure through the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund,” said Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County Warden. “This funding supports essential projects that help maintain the services our residents rely on every day. We remain committed to working collaboratively to ensure all communities in Peterborough County can thrive."

“This funding will help us maintain and improve our roads for the benefit of all residents,” said Mayor Jeff Leal.

The amount of funding for 2026 is as follows:

• North Kawartha: $125,000

• Peterborough County: $1,260,030

• Selwyn: $232,869

• Trent Lakes: $125,000

• Havelock-Belmont Methuen: $144,000

• Douro-Dummer: $125,000

• City of Peterborough: $10,000,000

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