City of Peterborough Launches Interactive Official Plan Map
/Residents and stakeholders now have access to an interactive web mapping application to access and visualize the new Official Plan.
file photo
Peterborough Blogs
City of Peterborough Puts Out Call for Community Advisory Group Members
/The City of Peterborough is asking residents to consider joining the community advisory group that will help inform the creation of a Secondary Land Use Plan and Community Planning Permit System for the City’s Strategic Growth Areas.
downtown photo
The plan and permit system will help promote intensified development, speed up development approvals and implement the new Official Plan, the City of Peterborough stated in a media release.
The Strategic Growth Areas are designated in the new Official Plan and include the downtown core as well as major corridors such as Lansdowne Street, Chemong Road, Clonsilla Avenue, Water Street and Armour Road.
There are openings for two residents on the advisory group.
It will also include representatives from local community organizations involved in a range of issues including housing, transportation, arts, cultural heritage, Indigenous rights and heritage, and environmental sustainability.
Interested persons can apply at Connect Ptbo by Oct. 4.
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City of Peterborough Appoints New Municipal Operations Commissioner
/The City of Peterborough has appointed Ilmar Simanovskis as the new Commissioner of Municipal Operations effective Oct. 15., announced on Tuesday.
Photo courtesy of The City of Peterborough.
City Council approved the appointment of Simanovskis, based on the recommendation of Chief Administrative Officer Jasbir Raina, during its meeting on Monday.
Simanovskis has over 30 years of experience in construction, design, engineering, and public administration, gained from both public and private sector roles according to a press release. It continues to state that he has focused on working closely with diverse teams, stakeholders and community members to deliver successful programs and services that meet the needs of the communities he has served.
“As a member of the City’s Senior Leadership Team, I look forward to being part of the City’s culture of innovation in the delivery of municipal services that align with Peterborough’s vision for environmental sustainability, social well-being, and efficient operations,” said Simanovskis. “I am excited to join the City of Peterborough and to work alongside such a dedicated team. My focus will be on leading and supporting the strategic service delivery needs of the community that not only address current challenges but also prepare us for the future. Together, we will continue to improve the quality of municipal services, ensuring that our city remains a great place to live, work and grow.”
In this new role, Simanovskis will be responsible for the Municipal Operations Department, which encompasses Public Works, Environmental Services, Transit, and the Peterborough Airport according to the City. These departments play vital roles in the city's day-to-day operations.
Simanovskis joins the City from Civica Infrastructure, a private-sector engineering and infrastructure asset management firm, where he served as vice president of the project Portfolio. He also has extensive experience in municipal government, including working as the Commissioner of Community Services in Richmond Hill, the Director of Engineering Services in Oshawa and the Director of Infrastructure and Environmental Services in Aurora.
"On behalf of the City of Peterborough, I am excited to welcome Mr. Simanovskis as our new Commissioner of Municipal Operations,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “His leadership and experience will be key in driving forward our goals for efficient and effective municipal operations. We look forward to the positive impact Ilmar will have on our community, ensuring that we continue to provide high-quality services to our residents.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Ilmar to our senior leadership team as the Commissioner of Municipal Operations. He brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to public service that aligns perfectly with Council’s vision for the City of Peterborough,” said Chief Administrative Officer Jasbir Raina. “Our Municipal Operations team delivers many of the core services that residents interact with every day. They are front-line leaders and brand ambassadors for our community. We are confident that Ilmar's expertise will be invaluable in enhancing the quality and efficiency of our municipal operations, ultimately benefitting all our residents.”
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City's Social Services Division Given Rainbow Registered Accreditation
/The City of Peterborough’s Social Services Division has been officially Rainbow Registered.
Photo by David Tuan Bui.
This accreditation, administered by Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce, reflects a commitment to creating a safer, more welcoming, and inclusive space for the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
The Rainbow Registered accreditation process evaluates applicants on four categories of criteria:
policies and practices are non-discriminatory and respectful of sexual orientation and gender identity.
provides diversity and inclusion training for staff and contributes to public education on diversity and inclusion.
demonstrates leadership and commitment to LGBT+ inclusion beyond its day-to-day operations.
has established an organizational culture that is LGBT+ inclusive and affirmative.
“Inclusion is a core value of our Social Services team,” said Councillor Alex Bierk and Councillor Keith Riel in a joint statement. “The Rainbow Registered designation reflects that our Social Services programs are respectful and welcoming for both staff and visitors; it also signals our ongoing commitment to policies and practices that support employee equity, providing 2SLGBTQI+ training opportunities for staff, and enhancing cultural competency in all operations.”
The Peterborough Museum and Archives also announced its Rainbow Registered accreditation earlier in June.
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City of Peterborough Hosting Public Information Centre For Sanitary Master Plan
/Residents are invited to participate to the City of Peterborough’s live virtual public information centre on May 29 at 6:30 p.m. about the City’s Sanitary Master Plan.
Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.
The Plan looks at the best use for existing sanitary infrastructure that aligns with the City’s Official Plan Update according to a press release.
“Our wastewater system is one of the most important pieces of infrastructure that the City currently provides, even though it can be ‘out of sight, out of mind,’” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “The Sanitary Master Plan is being developed to guide our strategic investment in the City’s sanitary system for the health and well-being of our residents, and your input is an important part of the process.”
The live virtual public information centre (PIC) presentation is part of the Class Environmental Assessment study. It will present information about the City’s existing wastewater system, future growth needs, the project schedule, and what steps are being taken to support the decision-making process. Participants can submit questions during the presentation through the virtual chat feature. To receive information on how to attend the virtual meeting, please register using the link on the project page.
Project information for the Sanitary Master Plan is available on the City’s community consultation website. Residents are invited to submit comments on the study and subscribe for future study updates. A recording of the PIC presentation will be posted on the project website following the live session.
The City’s Sanitary Master Plan objectives are:
Assess the existing sanitary system and identify requirements to service existing and future development areas;
Identify existing system vulnerabilities and risks, and develop a mitigation approach;
Evaluate the impact of future population growth to existing and new system vulnerabilities;
Develop an environmentally sustainable strategy for managed growth with a focus on intensification in built-up areas and climate change resiliency;
Provide capital planning recommendations to form the basis for future Development Charges
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City of Peterborough Hosting Two Public Meetings; Survey Open For Input On 2025 Budget
/The first of two public drop-in meetings to consult with the community as part of the early phase of the City of Peterborough’s 2025 Budget process will be held on Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the McDonnel Street Community Centre located at 577 McDonnel St.
pHOTO BY Keegan Beekers.
A second drop-in meeting will be held Monday from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at City Hall, 500 George St. N.
The drop-in meetings provide an informal opportunity for residents, including council members and city staff, to share their ideas and questions about the 2025 Budget with the City’s Budget team.
The drop-in meetings are in addition to the regular, official Council meetings through the budget process that include opportunities for individuals to present as formal delegations to Council.
A 2025 Budget survey is available online. Hard copies can be picked up at City Hall, 500 George St. N. The survey is open until 11:55 p.m. on April 26.
The City consults with the community throughout the budget process—at the beginning before the priorities and direction are set for the budget's drafting, when the draft budget is released, and before the adoption of the final 2025 Budget is considered by Council.
Council is expected to consider the direction for the Draft 2025 Budget on June 11. The Draft 2025 Budget is scheduled to be posted for public review in November ahead of Council’s budget deliberations. The Mayor is expected to present the 2025 Budget for adoption on Dec. 9.
Information on the City budget is available online.
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United Way Peterborough & District's 2023 Community Campaign Hits $1.4 Million
/United Way Peterborough & District honoured donors, volunteers and workplaces for their dedication to the 2023 Community Campaign that raised $1.4 million at The Venue in Peterborough.
UNITED WAY ANNOUNCED IT’S 2023 CAMPAIGN IN DECEMBER OF A GOAL OF $1.45 MILLION. IT FUNDS 20 PARTNER AGENCIES SERVING ABOUT 46,000 RESIDENTS IN 2022. PHOTO BY DAVID TUAN BUI.
Over 100 community leaders gathered at the event to mark the occasion. United Way presented Spirit Awards to 23 workplaces and individuals who exemplified an extraordinary commitment to supporting their community through the United Way Campaign last year
“Our success isn't just measured in dollars, but in the lives touched and futures transformed,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “With $1.4 million raised, surpassing last year by eight per cent, we prove that when a community unites, the impact knows no bounds. Here's to reaching greater heights together.”
“Gratitude fuels our journey towards a brighter future. It has been a privilege to act as United Way Peterborough & District’s 2023 Campaign Chair and I extend heartfelt thanks to our community for their unwavering support,” said Jim Hendry, United Way campaign cabinet chair. “Together, we are creating a foundation of hope, compassion, and empowerment."
“We invest in community and in people. With our donors’ support, we invest money into the community in a few different ways,” said Betsy Farrar, United Way manager of community impact. “In addition to providing funding to 20 partner agencies, advocacy is a critical aspect of our work. Ultimately, our grand vision for Peterborough is that we get to a place where the United Way exists solely as a community builder as the crises we currently face have been resolved.”
“In our community, every contribution to the United Way campaign, whether it's a donation or volunteer effort, is invaluable for funding essential social programs and initiatives,” Anne Ondercin, United Way director of philanthropy. “The Spirit Awards celebrate those who went above and beyond in 2023, highlighting their dedication and inspiring us all with their commitment to making a difference.”
The following are the United Way’s 2023 Community Campaign Spirit Award winners:
SPIRIT OF THE COMMUNITY
Cogeco
IG Wealth Management
Royal Bank of Canada
Dr. Stephan Ragaz
OUTSTANDING WORKPLACE CAMPAIGN AWARD (LARGE)
GM Financial
Peterborough, Victoria, Northumberland and Clarington Catholic School Board
Trent University
OUTSTANDING WORKPLACE CAMPAIGN AWARD (SMALL)
Irwin, Sargent & Lowes
Lucky Strike Bait Works
Enterprise Holdings
CHAMPIONS OF CHANGE AWARD
GM Financial - Tim Parmiter and Kirsten Valencia
Trent University - MK Millard and Alison Sholl
Peterborough Performs - Paul Rellinger
INSPIRING LOCAL LOVE AWARD
Andritz Hydro
Ontario Public Service
Costco Peterborough
LABOUR COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP AWARD
Peterborough & District Labour Council
OUTSTANDING PARTNER AGENCY
Community Living Trent Highlands
Elizabeth Fry Society
Peterborough Child and Family Centres
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United Way Peterborough Unveil Findings On Living Wage History, Release Report of 34-Year History of Income Inadequacy
/The United Way Peterborough & District has released a report that focuses on a 34-year history of income inadequacy and its impact on public health, released on Tuesday.
Jim Russell, United Way CEO (left); Elisha Rubacha, United Way’s community impact officer (middle) and Betsy Farrar, United Way manager of community impact (right) The report was released around World Health Day which is on Sunday, Photo by dAVID tUAN bUI.
The report, called ‘The Gap: Income (In)Adequacy Report 2024,’ uses the 2023 living wage rate for comparison. The Gap shows how Ontario’s minimum wage rate and social safety net have changed.
“There is an unspoken covenant between various levels of government and their citizens and that is to serve people, to preserve communities and to ensure opportunity for all to experience the fullness of life and their potential,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “Built into this notion is the belief that there should be a minimum standard of living for all people. When the cost of living outpaces income available through a minimum wage or social assistance programs, this minimum standard is not upheld as people are not able to afford basic necessities. Through this report, we are calling on readers to reflect, refresh, rethink, and renew how we understand adequate income as not something that is earned, but something that everyone in our community deserves access to.”
“United Way Peterborough & District has previously reported on our local region’s Living Wage rate, as we believe in the value that adequate income brings to our entire community,” said Betsy Farrar, United Way manager of community impact. “This year’s report uses a living wage as a measure of cost of living to highlight the shortfalls of other income types against the cost of living. Our research is highlighting how income rates such as minimum wage and social assistance are increasingly insufficient as the gap between these amounts and the cost of living widens year over year.”
Elisha Rubacha, United Way’s community impact officer, noted that The Gap frequently discusses food insecurity because it’s such a sensitive measure of poverty, resulting in many preventable illnesses that could be avoided if incomes were higher.
“Maintaining poverty is expensive,” she said. “For instance, adults in severely food insecure households in Ontario will generate healthcare costs that are 121 per cent higher than those in food secure households. Within the 34-year period examined in the report, Ontario’s minimum wage was frozen half of the time.”
In Canada, over 60 per cent of food insecure households rely on wages, salaries or self-employment as their primary source of income, indicating that too many of today’s jobs offer insufficient wages according to the report.
“When even working people can no longer afford to eat properly, that illustrates a serious problem,” said Rubacha. “Our social safety net similarly offers little protection from food insecurity, and in fact, has never been fully adequate to meet basic needs.”
The report illustrates the positive impact of existing tax benefits (the Canada Child Benefit and the Guaranteed Income Supplement) that function as basic income guarantees. It presents some results from past Canadian basic income projects (Mincome and the Ontario Basic Income Pilot).
“United Way Peterborough & District believes in moving people from Poverty to Possibility. Improving incomes is necessary, whether that’s through a basic income guarantee, a higher minimum wage, more certified living wage employers, or all of the above. The suffering that results from poverty is preventable. We can choose to prevent it,” according to a United Way press release.
The United Way plans to release this report to all local dignitaries and politicians to address the issue.
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Peterborough Chamber to Host Warden's Breakfast For County Updates
/The Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Warden’s Breakfast to hear updates from Warden Bonnie Clark at Lang Pioneer Village Museum on April 23 from 8 to 10 a.m.
Photo by dAVID tUAN bUI.
The Warden will discuss recent endeavours and future aspirations for Peterborough County. Updates on the County's progress and exciting prospects are also being revealed at the breakfast.
Warden Clark will be preceded by guest speaker Meredith Staveley-Watson, Manager of Government Relations and Policy at the Eastern Ontario Wardens' Caucus. She will discuss the ‘7 in 7+’ regional housing plan.
The ‘Countynental’ breakfast features food showcasing baked goods and savoury samples from establishments such as The Nutty Bean, Elmhirst's Resort, Stuff'd Lakefield, Three Roads Farms, The Cheesy Fromage, Jesse's Tap and Grill, Millbrook Mercantile, Cross Winds Farm and Fairlife.
Tickets can be found online.
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City of Peterborough Hosting Drop-in Meetings and Community Survey For 2025 Budget
/The City of Peterborough is inviting citizens to participate in an upcoming drop-in meeting to speak with City Council members and City staff or through a community survey for the 2025 Budget.
pHOTO BY Keegan Beekers.
The survey is available online or in paper copies at City Hall, 500 George St. N. It is open until 11:59 p.m. on April 26.
The drop-in meetings provide an informal opportunity for residents to share their ideas and questions about the 2025 Budget with the City’s Budget team, including Council members and City staff. They are in addition to the regular, official Council meetings through the budget process, which include opportunities for individuals to present as formal delegations to Council.
Two drop-in meetings will be held at the beginning of the budget process before the Draft 2025 Budget is put together and two drop-in style meetings later in the process after the Draft 2025 Budget is released to the public to encourage more conversations about the details in the draft budget.
The City consults with the community throughout the budget process—at the beginning before the priorities and direction are set for the budget drafting, when the draft budget is released, and before Council considers adopting the final 2025 Budget.
Council is expected to consider the direction for the Draft 2025 Budget on June 11. The Draft 2025 Budget is scheduled to be posted for public review in November ahead of Council’s budget deliberations. The Mayor is expected to present the 2025 Budget for adoption on Dec. 9.
2025 Budget consultation key dates
Community budget consultation meeting (brief presentation, conversations with Budget team), April 18, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., McDonnel Street Community Centre, 577 McDonnel St.
Budget consultation drop-in meeting (informal drop-in for conversations with Budget team), April 22, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., main foyer, City Hall, 500 George St. N.
City Council meeting on 2025 Budget, June 11, City Hall, 500 George St. N.
Draft 2025 Budget presented to City Council, Nov. 4, City Hall, 500 George St. N.
Budget consultation meeting (brief presentation, conversations with Budget team), Nov. 7
Budget consultation drop-in meeting (informal drop-in for conversations with Budget team), Nov. 12, main foyer, City Hall, 500 George St. N.
Public meeting for City Council to hear from delegations about the 2025 Budget, Nov. 12
City Council reviews and discusses the Draft 2025 Budget during General Committee meeting, Nov. 18 and Nov. 19
Mayor will present the 2025 Budget for adoption, Dec. 9
