Voice of Business: A United Canadian Economy

Welcome back to this week’s Voice of Business. These past few months have been intense for businesses, with grand uncertainty and rising costs. We do not know what to expect; any day could bring a new tariff, complicating supply chains and squeezing margins. Despite this, the Government of Canada has taken important steps to address long-standing interprovincial trade barriers that hinder growth and add unnecessary administrative burdens.

This week’s VOB will unpack what to expect from this legislation and, more importantly, how it could impact local businesses. Bill C-5 aims to create one Canadian economy out of 13 by removing federal barriers to internal trade. The first key measure in Bill C-5 establishes equivalency for provincial standards on goods and services. This means that goods or services produced, used, or distributed according to a province or territory’s standards would automatically meet the equivalent federal requirements. In the past, businesses had to navigate overlapping or conflicting federal and provincial regulations, which led to extra costs for businesses.

The second major measure would federally recognize occupational certifications and titles authorized by provinces and territories. This is significant for sectors facing skilled labour shortages. For example, an Alberta-certified electrician could work in Ontario without going through a separate federal certification process. This change helps businesses fill vacancies faster and allows workers to move more freely where opportunities are available, whether it’s trades, health care, or professional services. For local businesses, this means easier recruitment and a wider pool of qualified candidates.

With the federal government mirroring the authorization of products, services, and credentials, businesses would be able to access broader markets across Canada. Instead of facing a patchwork of different rules in each province, a business in Peterborough could now more easily sell to customers in British Columbia, Quebec, or Nova Scotia, without needing to re-certify or re-test products. This opens the door to increased sales, market expansion, and opportunities to diversify revenue streams.

As noted, many provinces are already working on memoranda of understanding with the federal government to align their standards and streamline trade. They should also review their own compliance processes to identify areas where they might now benefit from these equivalencies, for example, labelling, packaging, or equipment certifications.

Deviating from these past regulations means that businesses will face fewer hurdles to navigate, freeing up time and money that would otherwise go to regulatory compliance.

This can be especially helpful for small and medium-sized businesses, which often lack the resources to manage complex approval processes.

While businesses stand to benefit from reduced trade barriers, Bill C-5 also addresses nation-building projects major infrastructure, energy, and economic initiatives with national significance. Under the new legislation, such projects would undergo a single, harmonized approval process, with a target timeline of two years to secure final approval. This creates predictability for businesses and investors, helping them plan and execute major projects more effectively.

Importantly, the legislation also implements meaningful consultation with Indigenous peoples during the process of determining which projects are in the national interest and setting conditions for approval. This ensures that while processes are streamlined, Indigenous rights and interests remain a core part of project development—a key consideration for any business involved in infrastructure or natural resources.

While these measures will strengthen Canada’s internal economy, it’s important to note that they won’t alleviate all the trade challenges with our largest trading partner, the United States. In 2023, about $532 billion worth of goods and services moved between provinces and territories, while annual two-way trade with the U.S. exceeded $1 trillion. This means that while the domestic market offers significant growth potential, businesses must continue to navigate cross-border issues such as tariffs, supply chain disruptions, and regulatory differences.

Finally, this legislation is expected to have positive effects from east to west and north to south. Eliminating barriers at both the federal and provincial levels is estimated to add up to $200 billion to the Canadian economy, unlocking opportunities for businesses in every region, from manufacturers and service providers in urban centers to small businesses and resource industries in remote areas. This is a significant step toward building a more dynamic, competitive, and integrated national economy.

Content provided by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce.

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Peterborough Woman Charged With Drug Trafficking After Traffic Stop

A 54-year-old Peterborough woman wanted on a warrant is facing drug possession and trafficking charges after a traffic stop on Tuesday morning.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

At roughly 1:40 a.m., a general patrol officer in the Rubidge Street and Sherbrooke Street area conducted a traffic stop. While conducting the traffic stop, the vehicle passenger was found to be wanted on an outstanding warrant related to previous driving offences and taken into custody.

During a search after the arrest, officers seized a bag belonging to the passenger and found:

• 120.4 grams of Cocaine

• 10 pills

• Just over $900 in Canadian Currency

The woman was arrested on the strength of the warrant and further charged with:

• Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine

• Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of Trafficking- Other Drugs

• Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5000 - in Canada

The accused is being held in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday.

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First Local Case of Measles In Region Says Peterborough Public Health

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) has reported the first case of locally acquired measles within the region in over a decade, as announced on Tuesday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The resident is an adult who has been fully vaccinated (which PPH considers a ‘breakthrough case’), with the source exposure unknown. Although rare, breakthrough cases can occur; they cause much milder symptoms than those in unvaccinated individuals according to PPH.

They continue to state that a series of outbreaks have been affecting regions throughout Ontario over the last few months, with neighbouring Health Units reporting cases. Still, the disease had not been identified within Peterborough until now. PPH has launched investigations to determine potential exposure locations and affected individuals.

PPH has identified the following known exposure locations (in following graphic):

Photo courtesy of Peterborough Public Health.

If you believe you have been exposed at any of the dates and locations above:

1. Check your vaccination record. Confirm that household members have received two (2) doses of the measles vaccination (MMR or MMRV). If you have 2 doses of measles vaccine, you are not considered susceptible.

2. If you do not have two doses or are unsure, notify Peterborough Public Health. Please call 705-743-1000.

3. Consider vulnerability and need for post-exposure care. If you were exposed AND are immunocompromised, unvaccinated, or pregnant, contact PPH at 705-743-1000 to assess eligibility and need for post-exposure care.

4. Monitor for symptoms. Stay home if you develop any symptoms. Contact PPH (705-743-1000) and notify them that you may have measles. Always phone any clinic, emergency department, or health care setting before attending if you have been exposed or are experiencing symptoms.

Measles is airborne and one of the most contagious viral diseases in the world according to PPH.

Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after infection and may include:

• High fever (38.8°C or 101°F, or higher)

• Cough

• Runny nose

• Drowsiness

• Irritability

• Red, watery eyes

• Small white spots on the inside of the mouth and throat

• Red, blotchy rash (3-7 days after symptoms start), spreading across the body

Although most people who contract measles recover without treatment, it can be severe for those who are immunocompromised including infants, pregnant women and those with existing medical conditions. Possible complications can include ear infections, pneumonia, brain swelling and death.

“These cases are usually milder, less likely to require hospitalization, and occur in people who have close contact with a case over a longer period of time,” said Dr. Natalie Bocking, PPH Deputy Medical Officer of Health.

She adds that the vast majority of measles cases in the current provincial outbreak are in unvaccinated individuals – over 94 per cent.

While the current risk to the public is low, PPH is reminding residents of the importance of staying up to date with their vaccinations.

“Measles vaccination really is the most effective tool we have to prevent measles cases and outbreaks,” said Dr. Thomas Piggott, PPH Medical Officer of Health and Chief Executive Officer. “A full series will provide you with about 97 per cent protection.”

Residents are encouraged to check their vaccination status and contact their healthcare provider if they are not up to date. Individuals without a healthcare provider can book an appointment at PPH’s Routine Immunization Clinic by calling 705-743-1000, extension 331.

The PPH recommends that children receive one dose of the MMR vaccine at the age of one year. Then a second dose (of MMRV vaccine) between four and six years old – ideally before entry to school. Generally, adults born before 1970 are considered immune to measles. Adults born in or after 1970 should have at least 1 dose of the MMR vaccine.

The following adults are eligible to receive a second dose for additional protection:

• Health care workers

• Post secondary students

• Travellers to areas where disease is of concern

• Other adults, based on health care provider’s clinical judgement

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Peterborough Woman Wins $77,777 In Instant 7X Multiplier

‘Seven’ is Peterborough’s Lorraine Garvey’s lucky number as she won the top prize of $77,777 with Instant 7X Multiplier. 

Photo courtesy of OLG.

The retiree has been playing the lottery with OLG for over 30 years. Garvey plays INSTANT tickets, LOTTO MAX and LOTTO 6/49. This was her first major lottery win.

“This ticket was new to me and looked interesting, so I decided to pick one up,” explained Garvey. “I played my ticket right away and scanned it using the OLG app. When the prize amount appeared, I was stunned and thought there had been a mistake. I double-checked my ticket, but sure enough, it was correct!”

After having her ticket validated at the store, Garvey shared the incredible news with her husband when she got home.

“I showed it to him and said, ‘Look what I won!’ He was shocked and very happy for me,” she said. “Later, I called my daughters to tell them about my win, and they were overjoyed.”

She plans to purchase a new car, complete some home renovations, and share with her children.

“It takes a while for a win like this to sink in,” said Garvey. “It came as such a surprise!”

The winning ticket was purchased at Steve’s Quik Chek Variety on Armour Road in Peterborough.

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City Council to Hear On 2026 Budget On Tuesday's General Committee Meeting

Peterborough City Council will hear preliminary information on factors that may affect the City’s Draft 2026 Budget, during a General Committee meeting in the Council Chambers at City Hall, starting at 9 a.m. on Tuesday. 

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Council will receive presentations from the City’s Finance Division, which leads the budget process, as well as presentations from Community Services, Infrastructure, Planning and Growth Management, and Peterborough Police Service. 

The June 10 General Committee report regarding the 2026 Budget process will go to the June 30 City Council meeting for approval. 

The budget process will continue with a community engagement meeting from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 19, in the Banquet Hall at Healthy Planet Arena, 911 Monaghan Rd. 

The Draft 2026 Budget is expected to be presented in November, followed by further public consultation and Council debate on the Draft Budget. 

Under Strong Mayor Powers legislation, the City receives direction from the Mayor on the development of the City’s Budget. Council recommendations on the direction for the Draft Budget would be made to the Mayor, requesting that the Mayor consider them when providing direction to staff on the preparation of the budget. 

It is anticipated that the Mayor will present the budget for adoption in December. After the Mayor puts forward the budget, Council can pass resolutions to amend the budget within 30 days. The Mayor may veto a Council budget resolution and Council may then override a mayoral veto with a two-thirds majority vote. 

At this early stage of the 2026 Budget process, the Mayor has directed that the City staff prepare a Draft 2026 Budget that: 

• Initiates a collaborative budget process with members of Council; 

• Maintains current service levels approved by Council in the 2025 Budget, that reflects increases related to inflation, 2026 costing adjustments, Council approved changes, and legislated requirements; and 

• Includes an anticipated 10 per cent increase for Peterborough Police Service due to legislative requirements. 

The community engagement meeting on June 19 will include a brief presentation on the 2026 Budget process outlining how the budget is put together, a summary of results from the 2026 Budget survey that closed in April, and initial information on anticipated financial impacts that may affect the 2026 Budget. 

Information on the City budget is available at peterborough.ca/budget or on the City’s community engagement hub at connectptbo.ca/2026Budget, where comments can be submitted to the City’s Budget team.  

2026 Budget process  

• 2026 Budget survey opened, April 7

• 2026 Budget survey closed, April 25

• General Committee meeting, presentation on preliminary information/factors that are anticipated to affect the City’s Draft 2026 Budget, June 10 at 9 a.m., City Hall, 500 George St. N.

• Community budget consultation meeting with brief presentation, conversations with Budget team and Council members, June 19 at 6:30 p.m., Healthy Planet Arena Banquet Hall, 911 Monaghan Rd.    

• City Council meeting, consider items related to drafting the 2026 Budget, June 30, City Hall, 500 George St. N.  

• Draft 2026 Budget presented to City Council, Nov. 3, City Hall, 500 George St. N.  

• Budget consultation meeting with brief presentation, conversations with Budget team and Council members, Nov. 6

• Budget consultation drop-in opportunity to ask questions, share ideas, have conversations with Budget team and Council members, Nov. 10, main foyer, City Hall, 500 George St. N.   

• Public meeting for City Council to hear from delegations about the Draft 2026 Budget, Nov. 10

• City Council reviews and discusses the Draft 2026 Budget during General Committee meeting, Nov. 17 and Nov. 18

• Mayor will present the 2026 Budget for adoption, Dec. 8

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Community Care Peterborough Receives Ice Storm Hero Award

Community Care Peterborough’s (CCP) Norwood Office has received an Ice Storm Hero Award from MPP David Piccini, which recognizes their response during the March 29-30 ice storm throughout the region, presented at a public ceremony in Norwood on May 30.

Photo courtesy of CCP.

The Ice Storm Hero Award is given ‘for exhibiting exceptional community spirit in a time of crisis.’

The storm caused widespread power outages, property damage and road closures throughout Peterborough County. CCP says they quickly mobilized staff and volunteers to conduct wellness checks, support clients, and ensure residents had access to shelter, warmth, and essential services. In Norwood, local volunteers stepped up to care for neighbours and ensure no one was left behind.

“During the ice storm, your team went the extra mile to brave the elements and provide integral wellness checks on seniors across the community,” said David Piccini, Northumberland—Peterborough South MPP. These efforts to ensure that no senior felt left behind during a time of extreme isolation deserve endless recognition.”

Piccini added in an accompanying letter the following statement, “Your commitment to serving the most vulnerable members of our community did not go unnoticed… In times of adversity, we are reminded that ‘community’ is more than just a place—it is the spirit and the actions of its people.”

Rosemary Davidson, Program Assistant for the Norwood office, accepted the award on behalf of CCP.

“It was very humbling to be included in such a group of honorees,” she said. “Our volunteers are amazing and their instinct to always help wherever needed most is inspiring.”

“I’m so happy to see our volunteers recognized for putting others before themselves, something they do every day without a second thought,” said Tammy Ross, Community Development Coordinator for both Norwood and Havelock.

“Our team is passionate about caring for our neighbours. It was inspiring to see our community rally together,” Catherine Pink, Director of Operations for CCP. “So many people did so much good for one another. We are humbled and grateful to receive this honour from Mr. Piccini for the part we played.”

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Public Asked to Select Film For Canada Day Movie Night

The City of Peterborough asks the community to vote for a film for the free Canada Day Movie Night at Quaker Foods City Square.  

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The movie night will kick off the Canada Day festivities on June 30 at dusk (around 9 p.m.). The City is asking residents to bring lawn chairs, blankets and snacks to settle in. Free popcorn is handed out before the show.  

The following are the film choices:

The Legend of Sarila

An animated adventure set in the Arctic, this film follows three Inuit teens on a quest to find the legendary land of Sarila to save their starving clan.
Featuring the voices of Christopher Plummer and Geneviève Bujold, it's Canada's first 3D animated feature film.

Kayak to Klemtu

A heartfelt drama about 14-year-old Ella, who embarks on a 500-kilometre kayak journey to her ancestral home in British Columbia to take a stand against a proposed pipeline project.
A heartfelt Canadian production rooted in environmental justice and Indigenous resilience.

Cheaper by the Dozen

A comedy about Tom and Kate Baker, who juggle their careers and raising 12 children. Though not a Canadian film, the director Shawn Levy was born in Canada and is a citizen of both Canada and the United States.

Fly Away Home

After losing her mother, a young girl helps orphaned geese learn to migrate south. Filmed partly in Ontario and starring Canadian actress Anna Paquin, this inspiring story is based on real events.

The poll is available online, with voting closing on Friday at 4 p.m. 

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Riverview Park and Zoo Operating Under Summer Hours

The Riverview Park and Zoo’s summer hours are in effect, running from 8:30 a.m. to dusk daily.

IN CAPTIVITY, RIVER OTTERS HAVE A LIFE EXPECTANCY OF ABOUT 25 YEARS. PHOTO COURTESY OF Riverview Park and Zoo.

Sunday Summer Concerts have returned to the zoo’s Gazebo. This free bi-weekly event features local musicians and groups performing every other Sunday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.  

The City encourages visitors to bring a lawn chair and a shade umbrella to enjoy these concerts in an outdoor setting, weather permitting.  

The next concert, scheduled for June 8, features Fyd-L-Styx, showcasing traditional Scottish and Irish folk songs and fiddle music.  

The miniature train ride is now in operation. The train operates daily during the summer, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., weather permitting. The cost is $2 per person, with children two years old or under riding for free.  

Cleanup from the late-March ice storm is still underway in some areas of the Zoo. Visitors are asked to follow all posted signage and remain out of barricaded areas. 

The following areas are open to visitors:  

• Playground area and 80-foot super slide 

• Zoo area and animal exhibits 

• Guest Services and the Gift Shop is open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Monday and Tuesday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday   

• River Otter feeding takes place daily at 1:30 p.m. 

• The Zoo office is open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday 

• Splash pad, open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

• Park areas, including the disc golf course 

• Lower-level picnic area and picnic shelters. Use of shelters must be reserved by permit two weeks in advance 

The River Path Walking Trail remains closed at this time.

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Two Suspects Sought After Assaulting a Man Sleeping On a Park Bench

The Peterborough Police Service are seeking two suspects who assaulted a 62-year-old man sleeping on a bench at Del Crary Park early Saturday morning.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

At roughly 3:45 a.m., officers were called to Del Crary Park. They discovered that two younger men had assaulted the victim, woke him up and a physical altercation took place. The victim was taken to Peterborough Regional Health Centre for treatment of his injuries. 

The suspects were described to police as:

Suspect #1:

• White male, 

• 18 to 20 years

• Slim build

• Short hair

• No shirt on at time of incident

• Riding a bicycle

Suspect #2:

• White male

• 18 to 20 years

• Slim build

• Short spikey hair

• Dark shirt

• Riding a bicycle

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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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Harbr Human, DBIA, Community Care Peterborough, Mayor's Breakfast and Living Well Seniors Showcase

PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

There are some big changes coming to employment laws in Ontario, effective July 1.

Harbr Human Resources are hosting a free 30-minute webinar for businesses that will cover updates to key areas like hiring, onboarding and compliance. Big changes include pay transparency in job postings, washroom access for delivery drivers, and naloxone kit requirements. The webinar will be on June 18 at 3 p.m. Contact Harbr HR to register.

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area are partnering with Summer Soul Yoga and Pilates to offer free yoga and Pilates at Quaker Square during the farmers’ market on various Saturdays.

Enjoy some fresh air while getting moving through energizing Pilates designed to strengthen, stretch, and invigorate your body. All are welcome. Dress comfortably and bring a mat if you can. Find out more at summersoul.ca.

Community Care Peterborough are gearing up for a busy summer season with their thrift shops.

They have five stores across the region, including Apsley, Ennismore, Havelock, Millbrook, and Bridgenorth. Each has unique, affordable items that are perfect for the cottage. Not only will you find some great deals and interesting items, but you’ll be supporting programs and services that keep seniors and adults living with disabilities living healthy and safe in their own homes by helping fund Community Care.

The Chamber of Commerce has a couple of events coming up.

There’s the Four Mayor’s Breakfast on June 11 from 8 to 10am at Beachwood Resort. You’ll hear from the mayors of North Kawartha, Selwyn, Douro-Dummer, and Trent Lakes. There’s a full buffet breakfast, moderated discussion, and an opportunity to ask your own questions. Get your tickets at pkchamber.ca.

There’s also the annual Living Well Seniors Showcase on June 18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre.

The show features more than 100 vendors and 10 workshops. It’s a great way to connect with local businesses, non-profits, and services for both retirees and those planning for retirement. There are still a couple booths available if you want to showcase your business to the region’s largest demographic. Reach out to the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce for more details.

If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to joel@pkchamber.ca.

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