City of Peterborough's Spring Road Maintenance and Litter Cleanup Are Underway

Spring road maintenance and cleanup are underway across the city which includes litter collection, street sweeping, pavement crack sealing, pothole repairs and the return of weekly yard waste collection. 

Recreation, Parks & Cultural Services maintains 390 garbage bins across more than 100 parks and along the City’s trail system and will begin litter cleanup in those areas in the coming weeks. A total of 334 tonnes of litter and garbage were collected from city parks and trails in 2025.  Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

Weekly yard waste resumes on Tuesday until the end of November. Residents can place unlimited quantities of yard waste in reusable, labelled containers, bushel baskets, or paper yard waste bags. 

Yard waste set-out requirements: 

• Rigid open-top container with a maximum volume of 80 litres, with two fixed handles; lids must be removable and not secured 

• Bins must have two clearly identifiable yellow labels (available at City Hall, 500 George St. N.) 

• Brown paper bags or bushel baskets are accepted; no plastic bags 

• Damaged or broken bins will not be collected 

• Weight limit: 13 kg (30 lbs) 

• Brush must be bundled (max 1 m length, 30 cm diameter) 

• Set out after 6 p.m. the night before or by 7 a.m. on collection day

City crews have begun litter cleanup and expect the work to continue over several weeks due to the volume of debris. 

As snow melts, litter that accumulated over the winter becomes visible in parks, along streets and on sidewalks. 

Litter can harm wildlife, pollute waterways and attract pests. Residents are encouraged to dispose of waste properly. If a garbage receptacle is full, residents can report it online at peterborough.ca/ServiceRequest. 

For more information on litter cleanup, including how to request a litter clean-up kit visit, peterborough.ca/LitterAction. 

City crews will sweep all roadways, City-owned sidewalks, trails and parking lots in April and May. The work typically takes about seven weeks to complete, depending on weather conditions. Many areas may receive a second sweep as needed.  

This year, crews will begin in the west end, followed by south, east and north. Overnight crews will sweep arterial streets and the downtown area. 

City street sweeping removes winter sand and salt from roads and helps prevent debris from entering the stormwater system. Street sweeping also improves the cleanliness and appearance of streets, sidewalks and parking lots. 

Residents can assist by removing sports nets from streets, placing garbage and recycling containers on lawns or driveways and avoiding on-street parking during sweeping operations. Drivers are asked to proceed cautiously around street sweeping equipment. 

Crack sealing in asphalt began at the end of March and is expected to continue through the summer into early fall. While no full road closures are planned, traffic may be reduced to one lane in each direction on collector and arterial roads and reduced to single-lane access with flagging operations on local streets. 

To review planned locations, visit the City’s construction map at peterborough.ca/ConstructionMap. Locations will be added to the map as they are approved throughout the season.

City crews will patch potholes as weather conditions permit. Repairs are prioritized in high-traffic areas and locations where road damage poses safety concerns. 

Motorists are reminded to slow down, exercise caution and leave a safe distance when approaching maintenance crews. 

Road inspections and repairs are conducted year-round in accordance with Provincial Maintenance Standards, with increased focus during the spring thaw. 

Freeze–thaw cycles place stress on road surfaces as moisture enters cracks in the asphalt, freezes and expands. When temperatures rise, weakened pavement can break apart under traffic, resulting in potholes. 

Residents can report potholes by: 

• Using the online form at peterborough.ca/ServiceRequest 

• Calling Public Works at 705-745-1386 

In addition to seasonal cleanup work, several road maintenance programs will take place across the city this spring and summer. Restoration of utility cuts made over the winter will begin in late April and continue throughout the spring and summer. 

Commercial vehicles are restricted to half-loads on designated streets within the City of Peterborough until April 30, 2026. Half-load restrictions help protect roadways during the spring thaw, when pavement structures experience reduced load-bearing capacity due to freeze–thaw conditions. 

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Peterborough Petes Forward Adam Novotný Nominated For OHL’s Most Sportsmanlike Player of the Year

Peterborough Petes forward Adam Novotný has been named one of the nominees for the William Hanley Trophy for the OHL’s Most Sportsmanlike Player of the Year, as voted by the League’s General Managers, announced on Thursday.

Photo courtesy of Kenneth Andersen and the Peterborough Petes.

Team nominees were required to receive 20 per cent of the vote from General Managers within their own conference to advance to the final ballot as award finalists.

Novotný participated in this year’s World Junior tournament, winning a bronze medal with Czechia. Novotny was a finalist in the categories of best shot, hardest shot and most dangerous in the goal area on this year’s OHL Coaches Poll.

This season, he scored 34 goals and 31 assists for the Peterborough Petes in 58 games.

The Kobylice, Czechia native was originally selected eighth overall by the Petes in the 2024 CHL Import Draft. He signed an OHL Standard Player Agreement with Peterborough last July.

Novotný joins Cole Beaudoin (Barrie Colts), Jimmy Lombardi (Flint Firebirds), Kieren Dervin (Kingston Frontenacs), Jack Van Volsen (Sarnia Sting) and Anthony Cristoforo (Windsor Spitfires) as this year’s nominees.

The OHL is announcing the winner next Thursday.

The Petes return home for Game Five of the first round of the OHL playoff series this Thursday at the Peterborough Memorial Centre at 7:05 p.m.

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Three Teens Arrested For Assault And Uttering Hate-Motivated Remarks; Police Seeking One More Teen

Three Peterborough teenagers are facing charges and a fourth is wanted by Peterborough Police after an incident involving assault and uttering hate-motivated remarks on Wednesday afternoon.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

At roughly 12:20 p.m., officers were called to the area of Hilliard Street and Marina Boulevard. They learned that the victim had confronted one of the teens for dropping a parking sign on her vehicle. Three more teenagers, including one wearing a mask, came out of a nearby residence and surrounded the victim and started striking her, verbally threatening her and making hate-motivated remarks. Officers located three of the teens and identified a fourth who had fled the area. The victim attended Peterborough Regional Health Centre for treatment.

A 15-year-old Peterborough male was arrested and charged with:

• Assault

• Uttering Threats - Cause death or Bodily Harm

The accused was released on an undertaking with conditions and is scheduled to appear in court on May 11.

An 18-year-old Peterborough woman was arrested and charged with:

• Assault

The accused was released on an undertaking with conditions and is scheduled to appear in court on June 23.

An 18-year-old Peterborough man was arrested and charged with:

• Assault

The accused was released on an undertaking with conditions and is scheduled to appear in court on June 23.

A 13-year-old Peterborough male is wanted in connection with the incident for assault and disguise with intent. This is the same individual arrested in connection with several incidents on March 24. 

As there is a hate crime element to this case, it will be addressed as the case moves through the court process.

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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Eight Trent University Professors Recognized For Their Innovation and Dedication In Teaching and Research

Trent University is celebrating teaching and research excellence, recognizing eight individuals for innovation in Canadian Studies, Child & Youth Studies, Environmental Science, English, Cultural Studies and Biology, as well as dedication to inspiring and supporting students, colleagues and the broader Trent community.

photo courtesy of trent university.

“At Trent, dynamic teaching and critical research go hand in hand. Our Teaching and Research Excellence Awards recognize the people who propel Trent’s strengths in both areas. This year's recipients have demonstrated excellence in how they engage students and advance knowledge in their fields,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, president and vice chancellor of Trent University. “Their work is thoughtful, rigorous, and grounded in care for student learning. It is wonderful to be able to recognize their contributions to our academic community.”

The 2025-26 award recipients will be recognized at Trent’s Celebration of Faculty Excellence in Teaching and Research on April 29.

Award Recipients:

Symons Award for Excellence in Teaching: Dr. Nour Hammami, Child &Youth Studies 

Dr. Nour Hammami is an assistant professor in Child & Youth Studies at Trent University Durham Greater Toronto Area. Professor Hammami is recognized as a creative, inspiring and generous educator whose interactive teaching, supportive mentorship, and ability to simplify complex material through real‑life examples have left a meaningful impact on her students. The university recognizes Prof. Hammami for building students’ confidence through ongoing encouragement and creates safer learning environments where students can thrive both academically and personally. Prof. Hammami inspires and challenges students, facilitating difficult discussion topics with sensitivity and care. Her passion for teaching is evident in all aspects of her work, as is her steadfast commitment to students’ success.

Distinguished Research Award: Dr. P. Whitney Lackenbauer, Canadian Studies

The 2026 Distinguished Research Award honours Dr. P. Whitney Lackenbauer, Canada Research Chair in the Study of the Canadian North and a professor in the School for the Study of Canada. He is internationally recognized as one of Canada’s leading experts on Arctic and Northern security, governance, and policy. His research has shaped national and global conversations on climate change, emerging security challenges and northern sovereignty, while advancing Indigenous‑centered, community‑engaged approaches. Since joining Trent University in 2018, the university says he has produced an exceptional body of scholarship that continues to inform government decision‑making. Professor Lackenbauer founded the North American and Arctic Defence and Security Network (NAADSN) in 2019, now a major policy research hub with significant external funding. A prolific and award‑winning author, he is also a former Killam Fellow, Fulbright Scholar, and Distinguished Visiting Professor at the Canadian Forces College, which underscore his outstanding impact and influence.

Award for Excellence in Online Teaching: Dr. Andrew Loeb, English  

Dr. Andrew Loeb, an assistant professor in English, is recognized for his innovative teaching methods and course design that foster student engagement and success. Nominators noted the ways in which Dr. Loeb seamlessly incorporates online learning tools, such as hypothesis and voice recordings, into his courses to support students’ learning. The university notes that Professor Loeb creates dynamic online learning environments that build a sense of connection and deeply enhance student learning at Trent.

Early Career Researcher Award: Dr. Kira Borden, Trent School of the Environment 

Dr. Kira Borden, an assistant professor at Trent University’s School of the Environment since 2022, has rapidly built an outstanding research program focused on plant-soil interactions and climate‑resilient agroecosystems. In just over two years she has secured significant competitive research funding as principal investigator, earned Trent’s 2025 Merit Award in Research, and produced an impressive record of published scientific articles in high‑impact journals. Her research integrates mechanistic plant-soil interaction research with applied studies of soil carbon cycling and greenhouse gas emissions in agroecosystems. Trent has said that Professor Borden’s work is already influencing sustainable agriculture and food‑security strategies across diverse farming contexts as she collaborates with farmers, government scientists and industry partners to apply nature‑based climate solutions.

Early Career Researcher Awards: Dr. Joshua Synenko, Cultural Studies

Dr. Joshua Synenko, an assistant professor in Cultural Studies, is emerging as a leading voice in media studies through his research on technological, cultural and political transformations in artistic practice. His growing scholarly profile includes a strong record of peer‑reviewed publications, editorial leadership and major grant activity. Professor Synenko’s monograph, Reconfiguring Locative Art, along with his role in founding the international Media Theory Association and organizing conferences in Toronto and Naples, highlight his expanding global impact. 

Award for Faculty Leadership in Community-Based Research: Dr. Stephanie Rutherford, Trent School of the Environment 

Dr. Stephanie Rutherford, an associate professor in the Trent School of the Environment, is recognized for her strong commitment to community‑based research and the support of student achievement. Through her longstanding collaboration with the Trent Community Research Centre, she has mentored students on applied research projects exploring connections between nature, mental health and pro‑environmental behaviour, work that directly informs community sustainability initiatives. Professor Rutherford’s supervision consistently enables students to translate academic learning into meaningful community impact, exemplifying faculty leadership that advances both research engagement and student success.

CUPE 3908-1 Award for Excellence in Teaching: Dr. Shiva Jian-Javdan, Biology

Dr. Shiva Jian-Javdan, a sessional faculty member in Biology, is praised for her ability to creatively adapt labs and assignments based on student feedback to create immersive learning experiences. Professor Jian-Javdan inspires students with her passion for mammals and conservation and empowers them by creating a respectful and supportive learning environment where they can learn from mistakes and thrive. 

Award for Excellence in Teaching Assistance: Jonathon Smith, Child & Youth Studies

Jonathon Smith, a teaching assistant in Child & Youth Studies, is recognized for his outstanding support in academic writing and APA formatting, and his ability to give constructive and supportive feedback in ways that build students’ confidence. His approachable teaching style fosters an inclusive, impactful learning environment that prioritizes student success, supported by his willingness to meet with students outside of class and share helpful academic resources. 

“Trent researchers continue to drive the University’s reputation for scholarly excellence, and this year’s award recipients exemplify the creativity and dedication behind that success,” said Dr. Holger Hintelmann, interim vice president of Research and Innovation at Trent University. “Transformative research is a long-term commitment. These awards celebrate both those with established records of sustained achievement and those whose promising early work is opening new pathways of discovery. Together, they demonstrate the strength and momentum of Trent’s research community and its ongoing contributions to knowledge creation.”

“The teaching awards celebrate educators and teaching assistants who foster the kind of dynamic learning environments that students can expect from Trent University,” said Dr. Kristy Buccieri, acting associate dean of Teaching and Learning. “The individuals recognized this year have demonstrated exemplary pedagogical practices, ensuring that students remain at the heart of the learning process.”

Learn more about this year’s teaching and research award recipients, and the sixth annual Celebration of Faculty Excellence in Teaching and Research, an event hosted by Trent Teaching Commons and the Office of Research and Innovation in partnership with the Trent Community Research Centre.

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Fleming College Launches Entrance Scholarships to Support Student Success and Workforce Needs

Fleming College has announced the launch of its first-ever Entrance Scholarships program, a new initiative designed to reduce financial barriers for incoming students while supporting enrolment in high-demand program areas aligned with workforce needs.

photo courtesy of fleming college.

Beginning in the 2026 to 2027 academic year, Fleming will invest $100,000 in entrance scholarships, benefiting 50 full-time domestic students. The scholarships will provide $2,000 awards across five key student groups: mature learners, students entering the new Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography program, skilled trades students, applied health students and Fleming alumni returning to study.

This initiative builds on Fleming’s long-standing commitment to student support through bursaries, awards, and scholarships, while introducing a strategic approach to enhancing recruitment, improving conversion and supporting priority program growth. It is being launched at a critical time as institutions consider how to address gaps in student support due to recent changes to the OSAP program.

“These entrance scholarships represent a meaningful investment in our students and in the future of our communities,” said Dr. Theresa Knott, Interim President of Fleming College. “By reducing financial barriers at the point of entry, we are helping more students access education in high-demand fields while strengthening the talent pipeline for critical sectors like healthcare and skilled trades.”

The scholarships are made possible through a combination of donor contributions, including the Fleming Forward Fund, private donors and TD Insurance Affinity program revenue.

The program directly supports Fleming College’s strategic priorities, including expanding applied health programming, growing skilled trades education and enhancing student recruitment and retention.

“This initiative demonstrates how philanthropy can directly impact student success and institutional growth,” said Katie Pezoulas, Executive Director of Advancement and External Relations. “We are proud to work with our donors to create opportunities that not only support students financially but also align with the evolving needs of our communities and economy.”

Entrance scholarships will be automatically awarded based on academic achievement and eligibility criteria. They are available to full-time domestic students who accept their offer of admission by May 1, with recipients selected based on academic performance.

By targeting key demographic groups and program areas, the initiative is expected to improve enrolment conversion among highly qualified applicants while supporting sectors identified in Ontario’s Strategic Mandate Agreement, including skilled trades and applied health.

For more information about entrance scholarships at Fleming College, visit the website.

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Ontario Minimum Wage to Increase to $17.95 An Hour On Oct. 1

To support over 700,000 workers, the Ontario Government is raising the minimum wage from $17.60 to $17.95 an hour, effective Oct. 1.

Under the Employment Standards Act, Ontario’s minimum wage increases annually based on the Ontario CPI, a measure of inflation that represents changes in prices experienced by Ontario consumers. Screenshot.

This annual increase, tied to Ontario’s Consumer Price Index at 1.9 percent, helps ensure wages continue to reflect economic conditions while protecting workers and providing businesses with greater stability according to David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.

“Ontario workers are the engine of this province,” he said. “By raising the minimum wage to one of the highest in Canada, our government is putting more money in the pockets of Ontario workers, supporting families through economic uncertainty and giving businesses the stability and predictability they need to plan and grow."

Those earning the general minimum wage and working 40 hours per week will see an annual pay increase of approximately $728.

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Mayor Leal Expresses Disappointment In Conservative's Opposition to ALTO High Speed Rail Project

Mayor Jeff Leal has issued a statement in response to the Conservative Party of Canada’s opposition to the ALTO High Speed Rail project.

photo by david tuan bui.

The statement reads as follows:

“My colleagues and I on Peterborough City Council and the broader Peterborough community are very disappointed in Pierre Poilievre and the Conservative Party of Canada for opposing the ALTO High Speed Rail project.

The City of Peterborough has been clear that we are in full support of this transformative nation building project, which has chosen Peterborough as one of seven station stops along the Toronto to Quebec City corridor.

This project will significantly strengthen economic development, business investment, tourism, and employment opportunities in Peterborough, and the construction will create jobs and opportunities for local businesses.

It is especially disappointing to see former MP Michelle Ferreri stand beside Mr. Poilievre as he fights to take away this generational opportunity for our region.

The last time the Conservatives destroyed a national building project was the Avro Arrow in 1959. That shortsighted decision devastated Canada’s aerospace industry, with many of the country’s top engineers leaving the country. The talent that left Canada from that Conservative decision helped put the Americans on the moon in 1969.

The City of Peterborough will continue to work closely with ALTO and the Government of Canada to take advantage of the economic and social benefits of this important project.”

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Community Futures Peterborough Releases New Lending Guide to Help Entrepreneurs Explore Funding Options

Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) has released a “Roadmap to Smart Funding” guide to help entrepreneurs and small businesses make more informed financial decisions.

photo courtesy of community futures peterborough.

The guide provides a clear overview of several types of financing that entrepreneurs can explore, including business loans, lines of credit, equity investment and other capital options. Its goal is to help members of the local business community make informed decisions about how to finance their business ideas, expansions, and long-term growth.

“Many entrepreneurs know they need capital, but they aren’t always sure where to start or what type of financing is the right fit,” said Braden Clark, CFP loans manager. “This guide breaks down common funding options in plain language so business owners can better understand the tools available to them and choose the path that supports their goals.”

The guide explains key differences between funding types, including how they work, when they may be appropriate and what business owners should consider before pursuing them. By outlining these options side-by-side, the guide aims to help entrepreneurs compare approaches and identify financing solutions that align with their business model and stage of growth.

While many entrepreneurs are familiar with traditional loans, the guide also introduces other financing strategies that may support business development, such as equity partnerships, flexible financing tools and alternative capital sources.

The guide comes as a response to the uptake from both established and new entrepreneurs asking for more support with their budget, cashflow and overall financial literacy.

“Small businesses are the heartbeat of Peterborough-Kawartha, and our government is committed to ensuring they have the tools to succeed,” says Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “By providing expert advisory services and financial capital under one roof at Community Futures Peterborough, we are making it easier than ever for local entrepreneurs to get the support they need to grow, create jobs and strengthen our community.”

The guide is released as Community Futures Peterborough completes its fiscal year at the end of March, having issued a historic number of loans: 54 new loans to businesses and entrepreneurs in our region.

“We continue to see significant and increased demand for our services, both on the business advisory and financial advisory services,” said Devon Girard, CFP executive director. “This guide is designed to help entrepreneurs feel confident navigating the financial side of building a business and help them feel empowered in strengthening their financial position.”

The Roadmap to Smart Funding guide can be downloaded online through the Community Futures Peterborough website. Free hard copies are also available for pick-up at the CFP office (270 George St N.) in Downtown Peterborough.

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Two People Arrested and Charged After Traffic Stop

Two people were charged after a traffic stop on Tuesday evening.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

At roughly 5:30 p.m., general patrol officers spotted a vehicle in the area of Victoria Avenue and Reid Street. Officers noticed the passenger as having several warrants for her arrest on charges of robbery with violence, theft under $5,000, failure to comply with probation (x2) and failure to comply with an undertaking.  They conducted a traffic stop and took her into custody. During a search after arrest, officers seized 0.9 grams of Fentanyl.

A 24-year-old Peterborough woman was arrested on the strength of the warrants and further charged with:

• Possession of a Schedule I Substance - Opioid (Fentanyl)

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

The 52-year-old driver was found to be a suspended driver and charged under the Highway Traffic Act with driving while under suspension and the vehicle was impounded for 45 days.

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