Construction Nears Completion on Peterborough’s New Affordable Housing Building On Monaghan Road

Construction is approaching completion on the City of Peterborough’s new affordable housing building at 681 Monaghan Rd.

The project received $18.9 million in federal funding through the third round of the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI3), $40,000 from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s Seed Funding program, $1,684,286 through the Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative (OPHI), with the City of Peterborough contributing $4 million. City Council decided in February 2023 to use a special one-time dividend from City of Peterborough Holdings Inc. to support its funding for this project. Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The six-storey building comprises 53 units including 37 one-bedroom, 11 two-bedroom and five three-bedroom units. The ground floor features amenity space and utilities.

The dwelling prioritizes housing for vulnerable populations in Peterborough.

Residents are set to start moving into the building in April. This will be a staged process and the City is assisting with the relocation. Some residents are transitioning into Monaghan Road from transitional housing, thereby freeing up those units for other individuals in need of transitional housing.

“681 Monaghan Rd. is a significant step forward in addressing the urgent need for affordable housing in our community,” said Myor Jeff Leal. “This project not only provides safe and stable homes for vulnerable residents but also creates a positive ripple effect, freeing up much-needed emergency housing. We are grateful for the collaboration between all levels of government in making this a reality.”

“This building is about more than just bricks and mortar—it’s about dignity, stability, and opportunity for a wide spectrum of residents. With support from all levels of government, we’re taking meaningful steps to address affordable housing needs in Peterborough. This building will make a lasting difference in the lives of many,” said Councillor Alex Bierk and Councillor Lesley Parnell in a joint statement.

A grand opening celebration for the housing complex will occur this spring.

Construction on 681 Monaghan Rd. began in fall 2023.

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Peterborough Teenager Charged With Brandishing Hatchet At Lansdowne Place Mall Security

A 14-year-old Peterborough male teenager is facing charges after brandishing a hatchet at Lansdowne Place security on Wednesday evening.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

At roughly 7:30 p.m., a call was made to police regarding a disturbance by a large group of teens in the mall. The group started to flee once security arrived.  

The security guards were verbally threatened and then had a hatchet brandished at them. Officers spotted the teen in a parking lot across the street and took him into custody.

He was arrested and charged with:

• Uttering Threats - Cause death or Bodily Harm

• Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose

• Failure to comply with undertaking

The accused is currently bound by an undertaking with the following condition: to not possess any weapons.

The accused was released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court on April 14.

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Peterborough County/City Paramedics to Implement New 9-1-1 System

Paramedic services throughout Southeastern Ontario, including Peterborough County/City Paramedics, are introducing a new system for 9-1-1 emergency calls that will take effect on March 26, announced on Wednesday.

Photo by David Tuan bui.

The new system is part of the Government of Ontario’s Your Health Plan. It will require 9-1-1 callers to answer more detailed questions regarding the patient's condition.

Patients with less urgent or non-life-threatening conditions may experience longer wait times during periods with higher call volumes. For less urgent cases, patients will remain under observation through ongoing communication with ambulance communication officers to ensure no change in the patient's condition.

According to Peterborough County, the Medical Priority Dispatch System (MPDS) will match paramedics with specialized skills and equipment to each case, ensuring that non-urgent demand in emergency departments is reduced.

The County says that the data from regions already using MPDS has shown notable improvements in key operational challenges, including reduced offload delays at hospitals, better management of meal claims for staff and decreased end-of-shift overtime.

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Peterborough Police Service Launch Pedestrian Safety Campaign

The Peterborough Police Service has launched a pedestrian safety campaign that encourages everyone to walk safe, announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

This campaign is in partnership with Peterborough Public Health, the City of Peterborough and Peterborough County/  

Whether travelling on a city street or using a rural roadway, the safety of all road users should be front and center. Peterborough Police over the coming weeks will release essential safety tip.

From families on their morning trip to school to someone walking to the bus stop to get to work or even the short trip one may make from the parking garage to a shop, each of us makes many walk or roll trips each day.

In 2024, there were 44 pedestrian-involved collisions in the Peterborough Police Service policing areas (City of Peterborough, Village of Lakefield, Township of Cavan-Monaghan), with 39 of them (89 per cent) resulting in injury. In local OPP-patrolled areas, there was one pedestrian-involved collision that resulted in one death and one person injured. 

The Peterborough Police’s goal of releasing these safety tips is to reduce the risk to those walking, running, or rolling on city and rural roads, as well as minimize their exposure to hazards.   

There are tried and true Pedestrian Safety Tips that help everyone to #walksafe: 

1. Be Visible  

• Wear Bright or Reflective Clothing: Choose clothing in bright colors (such as neon or white) or wear reflective gear, especially if walking during low-light conditions (dawn, dusk, or night) or inclement weather conditions.  

• Carry a Flashlight or Headlamp: If walking in the dark, use a flashlight or headlamp to help you see and be seen by drivers.  

• Use Reflective Accessories: Consider adding reflective tape or vests to your clothing or gear, making you more visible from a distance.  

2. Walk Facing Traffic  

• Face Oncoming Vehicles: On streets without sidewalks, always walk on the left side of the road facing oncoming traffic so you can see approaching vehicles and take action if necessary.  

• Stay Alert: Minimize distractions by only having one headphone in and low volume. If you need to text, stop, text and then continue walking when you are done. 

3. Stay on the Shoulder  

• Use the Shoulder: Walk on the shoulder of the road, as far away from moving vehicles as possible.  

• Give Passing Vehicles Space: When cars or trucks pass by, stay as far off the roadway as possible to give them plenty of space.  

4. Choose Safe Walking Routes  

• Select the Safest Routes: Choose roads with the least amount of traffic or where traffic moves slower. If high-speed roads are your only option, please choose to be extra cautious. Consider roads that have wider shoulders or clearer visibility for drivers. Be alert at curves or areas with limited sight lines.  

5. Cross Safely  

• Use Marked Crossings When Available:  If no designated crossings are present, choose the safest location to cross with good visibility for both pedestrians and drivers.  

• Look Both Ways Before Crossing: Always check for oncoming traffic in both directions, even if the road seems clear. Don’t assume vehicles will stop for you.  

• Don’t Rush the Hand: Give yourself plenty of time to cross at intersections and designated crosswalks.  

6. Be Mindful of Weather Conditions  

• Adapt to Weather Changes: In poor weather (rain, fog, snow), visibility is reduced. Wear more reflective gear, and if conditions are severe, consider postponing walking if you can.  

• Stay Alert: Be aware of how conditions may impact vehicles. Poor weather may impact vehicles’ ability to stop or steer. Walk with extra caution, particularly when there is no sidewalk or crossing the street.  

7. Carry Identification  

• Carry ID and Emergency Info: Always carry identification and a phone with emergency contacts, especially if walking in more remote areas where help may not be readily available.  

8. Limit/Avoid Walking at Night  

• Utilize Well-Lit Roads: When possible, stick to roads and sidewalks that are well-lit during night or times or low light. 

• Limit Nighttime Walking: If possible, avoid walking after dark, especially on rural roads as visibility is low, and drivers may not expect pedestrians. If walking is unavoidable, ensure you have sufficient lighting and reflective gear. 

9. Be Cautious Around Large Vehicles 

• Watch Out for Large Vehicles: Rural roads and areas near construction zones are often utilized by large trucks, farm equipment, and other heavy vehicles. Be extra cautious, as these vehicles require more space and have longer stopping distances.  

• Give Farm Vehicles Extra Space: Always give farm equipment plenty of room, especially when it’s traveling at slow speeds or taking up the whole road.  

Motorists also have an active role to play in pedestrian safety. Motorists are reminded to: 

Be Alert for Pedestrians 

• In the dark or inclement weather, pedestrians may be less visible. Be alert and aware of other road users.  

• Remember to check for pedestrians crossing at intersections. Do a double check when making turns, as a pedestrian may arrive while you’ve been looking for a gap in traffic. 

• If a crossing guard is present, follow their instructions. Be patient and remember that stop means stop.  It’s important that cars remain stopped at crosswalks until everyone is back on the sidewalk.  

Be Aware of the Posted Speed Limit 

• Slow down and give space to pedestrians on roadways  

• Speed limits in many City and County school areas are reduced, be mindful of students walking or rolling to and from school 

• Community Safety Zones are established to provide awareness of higher concentrations of vulnerable road users, speeding fines can be doubled in these areas. 

 Be Mindful of Weather Conditions  

• Adapt to Weather Changes: In poor weather (rain, fog, snow), visibility is reduced, and road conditions may be impacted. Leave yourself extra space and extra time to travel. 

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“I Stand With Leaders From Across the Country In Opposing the Unjustified Tariffs Placed On Canada," Mayor Jeff Leal Releases Statement Regarding American Tariffs On Canada

With a 25 per cent tariff imposed on Canada by Donand Trump, United States President, that took effect Tuesday, Jeff Leal, Peterborough Mayor, has issued a statement in opposition.

Photo by David Tuan bui.

The following is Leal’s full statement regarding the tariffs:

I stand with leaders from across the country in opposing the unjustified tariffs placed on Canada. These tariffs are not only detrimental to the Canadian economy but to the American economy, as well. Tariffs hurt workers, businesses, consumers, families and residents on both sides of the border.

The City of Peterborough is working closely with partners, other municipalities and community leaders to assess the local impact of tariffs and to advocate for our community.

Yesterday, I joined municipal leaders from across Eastern Ontario in condemning the United States government’s decision to impose trade tariffs. As the Chair of the Eastern Ontario Leadership Council (EOLC), I joined the Chairs of the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC) and Eastern Ontario Mayors’ Caucus (EOMC) to represent nearly one quarter of Ontario’s municipalities which includes over 1.1 million residents. Each year, approximately $42.5 billion of total private sector exports from Eastern Ontario goes to other jurisdictions outside the region. As an engine of activity for the province and the nation, Eastern Ontario municipal leaders strongly condemn these tariffs and have been mobilizing to respond to these trade threats.

Here in Peterborough, we know that these exports reflect numerous sectors. We are taking the potential impacts seriously.

As the Mayor of the City of Peterborough, I am committed to working to protect and support our local economy. Peterborough businesses play a critical role in our community. I have appreciated the input and expertise shared by Peterborough businesses as we navigate this situation. A number of weeks ago, Warden Bonnie Clark and I gathered with members of the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce on to hear directly from local businesses about impacts and opportunities in our region. We will be behind local businesses and support them as much as possible.

As a municipality, we will also continue our work to find ways to play an active and supportive role at this time. Last week, Peterborough City Council unanimously approved a motion to confirm City of Peterborough’s support for Team Canada. As part of this motion, City staff were directed to bring back a report detailing a temporary procurement policy to reflect an interest in preferring Canadian companies and services to the greatest extent possible.

The City of Peterborough is committed to protecting local businesses and ensuring our economy remains strong. I encourage all residents of Peterborough to support local businesses and products, whenever possible.”

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Peterborough Man Faces Child Pornography and Luring Charges After Exchanging Messages With a Minor

A 33-year-old Peterborough man is facing luring and child pornography charges after an investigation after an exchange of inappropriate messages was brought forward, reported on Wednesday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Internet Child Exploitation Unit officers went to the suspect’s residence and took him into custody without incident.

The man was arrested and charged with:

• Luring a Person Under 18 x2

• Possession of Child Pornography

• Access Any Child Pornography

The accused is being held in custody and will appear in court on Wednesday.

Anyone with information is asked to call Peterborough Police at 705-876-1122 x555 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.

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Fleming College Welcomes All At Spring Open House On March 22

Fleming College invites everyone to discover their future at its annual spring Open House on March 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

File Photo.

Attendees can explore Fleming’s campuses and learn about the diverse programs and exceptional student resources. 

Visitors can tour the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre at the Sutherland Campus in Peterborough, meet with faculty and chat with students about their experiences in Fleming’s wide range of programs. Information about accessibility, student experience, athletics and diversity and inclusion services will also be available. 

The Frost Campus in Lindsay will offer a variety of hands-on activities and demonstrations. Guests can enter a contest to get a chance to press a detonator and blow up dozens of watermelons during Fleming’s Blasting Techniques program demonstration.  

At the Haliburton School of Art + Design, attendees can speak with students and instructors, tour the art studios and walk along the adjacent Sculpture Forest Trail. 

Those interested in firefighting careers can visit the Eastern Ontario Emergency Training Academy in Norwood, where faculty, staff, and students from Fleming’s Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training program will be available to answer questions and provide insight into the program. Firefighters will be on location from surrounding communities, training for situations they encounter regularly, a moment not to be missed. 

Registration to attend Open House is available online.

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History of Peterborough Keeps On Trucking As Kawartha Time Machine Hits Decade Milestone

What started as a streaming oldies platform to showcase a growing collection of local and regional broadcast archives, Kawartha Time Machine celebrates a decade of hitting the waves as a local internet platform.

The most recent audience numbers for the 30 days ending Feb. 28, 2025 show 2,507 listeners in 123 countries streaming for a combined 10,508 hours, with average listening times of just over five hours. Photo courtesy of Kawartha Time Machine.

It was launched in the first week of March in 2015 by Gordon Gibb; known as a tenured Peterborough writer/broadcaster and Petes PA announcer.

With listeners in over 100 countries, Kawartha Time Machine sampling the music and nostalgia, weekday features, eclectic weekend shows and vignettes highlighting the jewels of Peterborough and surrounding area. This includes the Lift Lock, Musicfest, 4th Line Theatre and the Peterborough Theatre Guild, The Peterborough Petes, the Canadian Canoe Museum and the City itself. The program has also had close ties to Lester B. Pearson, Robertson Davies and Neil Young.

“It quickly became apparent that given the site's global reach, I can help those living abroad stay in touch with their native homeland, as well as promote the region as a destination,” said Gibb.

His growing collection of regional broadcast archives gained significant interest over time.

“I rolled tape whenever anything of significance happened over the years which has combined to a treasure trove of audio archives including the Peterborough flood of 2004, major fires, local elections and Gary Dalliday's very first sportscast in 1975.,” explained Gibb. “I also have all of John Badham's commentaries, and a newscast from his third day on the job with us in 1988.”

Kawartha Time Machine also had unearthed archives extend back to the 1960s with people such as Del Crary and the week Peterborough Square first opened in 1975. The archives include audio from 1420 CKPT, the early days of Country 105, and CKLY in Lindsay.

“The voices and the events are forever ingrained in our memories,” said Gibb. “It's history that would otherwise gather dust in a box. With The Time Machine, they're available to anyone. An audible museum of history.”

Future plans include segments on Peterborough's unique and long-heralded rock and roll roots.

“It started as a hobby,” said Gibb. "But it's become a passion. And people seem to quite enjoy it.”

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Miskin Law Donates $10,000 Towards Peterborough Folk Festival; Also Named Main Stage Sponsor

Peterborough Folk Festival (PFF) has received a $10,000 cheque from Miskin Law who has been named the 2025 main stage sponsor, announced on Tuesday.

(From left to right) Murray Miskin and Chris Goddard present Rob Davis and Calvin Bakelaar with a cheque of $10,000 to confirm their place as the 2025 Peterborough Folk Festival Main Stage Sponsor. Photo courtesy of Peterborough Folk Festival.

The money was donated during a cheque presentation held at Miskin Law Offices on Wednesday.

“Miskin Law is proud to be a supporter of Peterborough Folk Festival, showcase well-known artists, promote local and emerging artists and help bring them to the forefront," said Murray Miskin.

“The values of Peterborough Folk Festival and Miskin Law align. We are here to help and build community,” said Chris Goddard, Miskin Law partner. Peterborough Folk Festival brings people together in a way that we value and support.”

As a volunteer-run registered charity, Peterborough Folk Festival relies on community leadership and support from sponsors like Miskin Law. Their generous sponsorship is vital to the success of promoting and preserving this cultural gem that is inclusive, welcoming, and accessible to everyone.

“The festival deeply appreciates Miskin Law for their unwavering support and commitment to fostering a vibrant cultural scene in Peterborough. Their partnership ensures that Peterborough Folk Festival continues to thrive and bring joy to our community year after year.” said Rob Davis, PFF Chair.

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Peterborough Petes Forward Named EOJHL Top Prospect For 2024-25

Peterborough Petes forward Dylan Turcotte has been named one to the top prospects of the Eastern Ontario Junior Hockey League (EOJHL), announced on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of David Pickering and the Peterborough Petes.

As an Ottawa Junior Canadian, Turcotte finished with 28 goals and 33 assists for 61 points in 27 games during the 2024-25 campaign. He had a 2.26 points-per-game average which led all EOJHL skaters. Turcotte also had 18 multi-point games this season and has a 19-game point streak.

The Orleans native was originally selected by the Petes in the first round, third overall, of the 2024 OHL U18 Priority Selection.

He was called up to the team ahead of Saturday’s game against the Brantford Bulldogs in a 4-3 overtime losing effort.

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