Peterborough-Kawartha to Install 40 Electric Vehicle Chargers

Peterborough and the Kawarthas are building 40 new electric vehicle charging stations, announced on Tuesday.

File Photo.

“For Electric Vehicle drivers, locating a nearby and accessible charging station can determine whether they enjoy a quick stop or face a lengthy detour that impacts their work, school, or family commitments,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “By enhancing access to public charging infrastructure and strategically placing chargers where they are most needed, we are promoting the adoption of EVs in Ontario.”

These new chargers, part of the government’s $63 million EV ChargeON Program Community Sites Stream, will be located at:

• Four new chargers at Walmart Peterborough

• Eleven new chargers at Miskin Law Community Complex

• Four new chargers at 336 Lansdowne St. E

• Eight new chargers at 1781 Lansdowne St. W

• Four new chargers at Villa Wash & Esso Peterborough

• Five new chargers at Peterborough Chrysler Ltd.

• Four new chargers at the North Kawartha Community Centre, Apsley

“With more than 201,000 electric vehicles on the road in Ontario, we’re putting shovels in the ground to build more charging stations and make life easier for drivers,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Electrification. “That includes a focus on smaller and underserved communities across our province where we are providing more certainty for parents and workers during their commutes.”

Each new EV charging site will include Level 2 charging stations, Level 3 or a combination.

The government has also launched a new Ultra-Low Overnight Electricity Price Plan and is exploring options for an Electric Vehicle Charger Discount Electricity Rate to further support EV adoption and reduce emissions. The new Ultra-Low Overnight Electricity Price Plan helps customers who use more electricity at night, including those who charge their electric vehicle, save up to $90 per year, according to the Ontario Government.

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Ontario Government Invests Over $5.7 Million For Jobs and Economic Development Boost In Rural Ontario

The Ontario Government has invested over $5.7 million in 85 projects, to help create jobs and boost economic development in rural communities across the province, announced at the Township of North Kawartha on Friday morning.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The funding through the recent intake of the Rural Economic Development (RED) program supports projects that diversify and grow local economies, build community capacity and address barriers to economic development and labour force challenges said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Rural Affairs.

“Our government values rural communities throughout the province and this program provides municipalities, Indigenous communities, and not-for-profits with essential funding for projects that contribute to local economic vitality,” she said. “The Rural Economic Development program is another example of how our government is ensuring small towns and communities across Ontario continue to share in the province’s growth and economic prosperity.”

As a result, North Kawartha is set to receive up to $25,000 for downtown revitalization efforts. This funding will support community consultations, the creation of a downtown Master Plan and marketing initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth within the community according to Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP.

“The RED program plays a vital role for our rural communities, such as North Kawartha,” he said. “Investing in these areas aids in diversifying and expanding economies. By fostering inclusive economic growth, rural communities can continue to benefit from the province's overall prosperity.”

Marketing initiatives will highlight North Kawartha's unique charm and attractions, drawing attention to its natural beauty, cultural heritage and local businesses. /the township aims to attract new visitors, boost tourism, and stimulate economic development according to Steve Pinsonneault, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Rural Affairs.

“Our government recognizes the need to prepare rural Ontario for expansion through the Rural Economic Development Program,” he said. “We are committed to supporting projects that continue to benefit rural communities. The projects we are investing in will incorporate the right tools necessary to help build the best possible future for the entire province.”

“We are excited to move forward with these much-needed downtown revitalization efforts,” said Carolyn Amyotte, Township of North Kawartha Mayor. “The funding provided through the Rural Economic Development Program is crucial in helping us create a vibrant, welcoming, and economically viable downtown for Apsley. We appreciate the partnership and program support from the Ministry of Rural Affairs which makes these initiatives possible.”

Curve Lake First Nation will receive $53,789.33 from the Rehabilitation of vacant and/or underutilized building projects to renovate the Chemong Cottage. The project aims to create a space for learning and collaboration, attract diverse visitors and foster new partnerships.

The RED program provides cost-share funding for activities that create strong rural communities. This includes funding assistance to build local capacity and improve job prospects. The program aligns with the government’s priorities of removing barriers to investment, opening doors to rural economic development, and creating good jobs across the province according to Keith Knott, Curve Lake First Nation Chief.

“Curve Lake First Nation appreciates the support from the Rural Economic Development Program for the renovation of Chemong Cottage,” he said. This project not only enables us to create a sustainable space for economic growth but also provides an invaluable opportunity to share our cultural heritage and teachings. This construction aligns with our vision to foster greater understanding, generate meaningful employment, and celebrate the rich traditions of Curve Lake. We are excited to bring this vision to life and look forward to the positive impact it will have on our community and our neighbours.”

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Ontario Government Investing Over $10 Million For Faster Emergency Care and Increased Ambulance Availability For Peterborough County

The Ontario Government is investing $10,037,559 in Peterborough County to connect people to faster emergency care faster and increase ambulance availability, announced at Peterborough EMS on Friday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“When people call 911, they need to know that paramedics will arrive quickly to meet their needs. A delay in a service call of just minutes can lead to drastically different results,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “The Peterborough County-City Paramedics work hard to deliver emergency medical care. This investment will help all of us receive better service when our loved ones pick up the phone at that critical time.”

According to a press release, the province is increasing land ambulance funding by six per cent, bringing the province’s total investment in the region to $10,037,559 this year. The release continues to state that this base funding increase helps municipalities address increased costs and continue delivering high-quality emergency care.

“With record high population growth and call volumes, our Peterborough County-City Paramedics are working hard to keep up,” said Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County Warden. “The Provincial funding announced today will help our paramedics service to continue providing the high quality of care that Peterborough County and City residents expect and deserve. Thank you to the province for this funding to help our paramedics do their job and keep our communities safe and healthy.”

To further reduce delays paramedics encounter when dropping patients off at a hospital, the Ontario government is investing $607,727 in Peterborough County through the Dedicated Offload Nurses Program to hire more nurses and other eligible health professionals dedicated to offloading ambulance patients in hospital emergency departments.

“Peterborough County/City Paramedics have worked closely with PRHC identifying and implementing strategies to assist with offload delays,” said Patricia Bromfield Peterborough County Paramedic Chief. “The continuance and increase of funding received this year is important for our ongoing staffing of this program and returning our ambulances back to the road to service the community.”

The program allows paramedics to return to the community faster and respond to their next 9-1-1 call sooner. It has significantly reduced ambulance offload times and increased ambulance availability for 9-1-1 patients across the province. As a result of this investment and the dedication of healthcare professionals, provincial ambulance offload time has been reduced by more than 50 per cent since its peak in October 2022 according to a press release.

Ontario is also continuing to implement the Medical Priority Dispatch System (MPDS) across the province to ensure urgent patients receive critical care sooner. The system helps prioritize and triage emergency medical calls and dispatch paramedics sooner. Over the last year, the province has rolled out MPDS to Mississauga, Kenora, Thunder Bay, Ottawa and Renfrew and is accelerating progress to implement the system at the 15 remaining dispatch sites across Ontario over a year ahead of schedule.

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Ontario Government Invests Over $9.5 Million For Peterborough's Critical Infrastructure

The Ontario government is investing $9,536,982 to help renew and rehabilitate critical infrastructure in the City of Peterborough, announced at City Hall on Friday morning.

In 2025, Ontario will allocate $400 million in OCIF funding to help 423 small, rural and northern communities build roads, bridges, water and wastewater infrastructure. Communities may accumulate funding for up to five years to address larger infrastructure projects. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The funding will be delivered in 2025 through the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund and is part of the government’s $190 billion capital plan to build and expand more homes, highways, hospitals, transit and high-speed internet across the province according to a press release.

“This investment of over $9 million will improve infrastructure throughout the City of Peterborough, particularly in the downtown core,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “It is formula-based funding that is sent out to the municipalities each year and is something they can count onto plan for critical infrastructure projects.”

“With this support, we can address key projects that will improve our core infrastructure and create long-lasting benefits for our residents,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “Strong infrastructure is the backbone of our city’s future, and this partnership with the province plays a pivotal role in ensuring a vibrant Peterborough for many years to come.”

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

The funding allocations are based on a formula that accounts for each community's needs and economic conditions.

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Ontario Convenience Stores Able to Sell Beer, Wine, Cider and Ready-to-Drink Alcoholic Beverages

The Ontario Government has permitted all licensed convenience stores in the province to sell beer, cider, wine and ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages effective immediately, announced on Thursday.

Doug Ford, Ontario Premier (left) and Peter Bethlenfalvy, Ontario Minister of Finance (right) making the announcement at a convenience store in Etobicoke. As of Sept. 5, 4,187 convenience stores across Ontario are licensed to sell alcoholic beverages, in addition to nearly 3,000 other licensed retail outlets as well as takeaway options from licensed bars and restaurants. Screenshot.

Doug Ford, Ontario Premier announced the coming of alcohol in convenience stores on Dec. 14 last year.

“Today’s expansion delivers on our government’s promise to give people in Ontario the same choice and convenience enjoyed by people throughout the rest of Canada,” he said. “With today’s announcement, we’re also creating new opportunities to produce and sell world-class Ontario-made beer, wine and ready-to-drink beverages in nearly 4,200 convenience stores across the province.”

By the end of October, as part of the government’s plan to expand alcohol sales, every eligible convenience, grocery and big-box grocery store in Ontario will be able to sell eligible alcohol if they choose to according to a press release.

“People finally have more options to responsibly and conveniently support local Ontario breweries and wineries – or whatever their drink-of-choice may be – even closer to home, and today’s announcement is another milestone in the government’s commitment to deliver more choice and convenience to consumers,” said Peter Bethlenfalvy, Ontario Minister of Finance. “In addition to supporting Ontario retailers, domestic producers and workers in the alcohol industry, our vision for a better marketplace has come to life thanks to people and businesses across the province.”

The government adds that they are permanently allowing the transfer of wine and spirits between locations with the same owner and/or affiliated licensees to help bars and restaurants effectively manage inventory and is allowing licensed grocery and convenience stores to display alcoholic beverages in multiple areas of a store while maintaining small-producer shelf space requirements as well as policies that will continue to ensure the safe and responsible sale of alcohol.

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Ontario Government Invests Over $3 Million to Improve Trent University's Infrastructure

The Ontario Government has invested $3,002,300 into Trent University’s infrastructure to help its students access to modern facilities, learning tools and equipment, announced at the school’s Student Centre on Thursday morning.

(From left to right) Kathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor; Tariq Al-idrissi, Vice-President of Finance & Administration and Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP in front of ongoing consutrction of an accessible pathway along the Otonabee River. The pathway stretches from Bata Library to Champlain College. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Trent is using the money to:

• Enhance the learning environment and campus experience for students, faculty and staff with infrastructure upgrades and improvements to critical academic and research facilities.

• Increase efficiency and reduce the University’s environmental impact by enhancing building exteriors, mechanical and electrical systems.

• Prioritize accessibility, AODA standards, health and safety through essential facilities as well as ramps and stairs, and updated signage.

“This support will ensure students at Trent University have access to modern instructional equipment to meet business and industry standards, increase student access to micro-credentials and enhance the overall student experience,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “By investing in postsecondary infrastructure, we are not only supporting our local economy but ensuring students develop the skills they need to succeed in the workforce.”

“This significant contribution from the government helps Trent University enhance the environments of our renowned campuses, ensuring our award-winning architecture and its infrastructure are keeping pace with the latest upgrades and innovations,” said Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “At Trent, we are dedicated to student success and wellbeing, prioritizing a safe and modern environment for both learning and teaching. This investment not only strengthens the University but also reinforces Trent's role as a vital asset and key contributor to the local communities and Ontario’s economy.”

The most notable part of the investment is an accessible pathway that starts from Bata Library, travels north underneath Faryon Bridge and extends out to Champlain College. The construction has already been ongoing for two years with expected projected completion before Head of the Trent which takes place on Oct. 4 and 5.

While the University is known for its architecture, it had its accessibility issues. Having the balance between modernization and preserving heritage was key in making these upgrades.

“We have that level of modernization that students are looking for, we have safe and accessible campuses but we also need to be preserving the heritage,” said Bruce. “We needed to preserve the riverside and we need to make it really conducive to community and anybody who wants to come along here and enjoy that.”

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Ontario Government Investing Nearly $2.2 Million In Community and Frontline Agencies

The Ontario Government is investing $2,197,672.29 in Peterborough and the Kawarthas for increasing support to community agencies so they can continue to deliver frontline services.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The agencies are receiving the following:

• Canopy Support Services - $1,006,534.11

• Community Living Trent Highlands - $876,095.21

• Alternatives Community Program Services (Peterborough) Inc. - $ 64,853.21

• John Howard Society of Peterborough - $ 10,260.44

• Peterborough Child & Family Centres - $8,918.34

• Peterborough County-City Health Unit - $2,329.27

• Peterborough Youth Services - $19,981.84

• Victim Services of Peterborough and Northumberland - $1,184.01

• YWCA Peterborough-Haliburton - $9,835.56

• Service Coordination for Children and Youth - $16,841.28

• Access Community Services Incorporated - $171,473.55

• Community Counselling and Resource Centre - $2,028.26

• Dalhousie Youth Support Services - $7,337.21

“Our local agencies make our communities stronger, more resilient and inclusive. They work hard to provide people with access to the right resources and services they need to succeed and thrive,” said Dave Smith, Member of Provincial Parliament for Peterborough-Kawartha. “By strengthening supports for our community agencies in the City and County of Peterborough, we are helping them deliver critical services to people in need.”

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Ontario Government Invests Nearly $450,000 For Training Towards Creating Jobs In Trade Sector

The Ontario Government has invested $435,210 to train 75 workers for in-demand careers in aviation and construction, announced at Flying Colours on Monday morning.

The investment brings Ontario's total in skills development training through SDF to nearly $1.1 billion. Since its launch in 2021, Ontario's Skills Development Fund has helped connect more than half a million jobseekers with the skills and training they need to find well-paying and fulfilling careers close to home. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“Our government is proud to invest in programs that support training and upskilling,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “This project will give people the necessary skills needed to land in-demand and well-paying jobs in their communities and contribute to our province.”

The training is provided through the Skills Development Training Stream, which is in partnership with Peterborough and the Kawarthas Economic Development (PKED) in the Build & Soar program.

It matches students from the Construction and Aerospace & Aviation Specialist High Skills Majors programs at Peterborough Victoria Northumberland Clarington Catholic District School Board and the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board with local employers in the construction, aerospace and aviation industry according to a press release.

The program also contains an eight-week placement with a local employer. It will also allow students to learn about flight training through flight simulators for students pursuing a career in the military or commercial pilot pathways.

“Ontario's trades are vital to the growth of the economy and our government's 'Plan to Build’ offering careers that lead to secure jobs and a good quality life,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “Which is why having programs like the Build & Soar will set them on the path to success.”

The Skills Development Fund Training Stream is open to applicants such as employers, industry associations, labour unions, municipalities, hospitals and more.

“Introducing youth to local employment opportunities is crucial, as it not only equips them with real-life work experience but also strengthens the community's economic fabric,” said Rhonda Keenan, PKED president and CEO . “Local companies play a pivotal role in this process, offering invaluable mentorship and skill-building opportunities while simultaneously tapping into and nurturing the future workforce. By investing in young talent, these businesses contribute to a cycle of growth and innovation that benefits both the students and the broader community.”

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Provincial Government Invests Nearly $450,000 Into Peterborough-Kawartha Long-Term Care Homes

The Ontario Government has invested $444,135 to four local long-term care homes in Peterborough-Kawartha area as part of the Local Priorities Fund, announced at Fairhaven Long-Term Care Home on Friday morning.

The Local Priorities Fund is part of a broader investment of over $120 million in 2022-23 and complements the recently launched Equipment and Training Fund. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The following homes are receiving the investment:

• Extendicare Lakefield: $5,950

• Extendicare Peterborough: $37,321

• Fairhaven Long Term Care: $261,059

• St. Joseph’s at Fleming: $139,805

“The Ontario government’s investment will enhance the services we provide to our resident’s care needs,” said to Nancy Rooney, Fairhave executive director. “The Local Priority Fund allows our residents to have the care required without overburdening our hospitals.”

The funding will help long-term care homes be supplied with items such as IV equipment, bariatrics equipment bed support, bladder scanners, and ECGs. It also goes towards everyday items like slip-proof floor mats, wrap around bed rails, and grab bars according Rooney.

This funding covers costs for specialized staffing, equipment and services for new or increasingly complex medical or specialized equipment needs which cannot currently be accommodated in our home,” she said. “This Fund has made a significant impact to our organization. We greatly appreciate the provincial support in funding different initiative such as the Local Priorities Fund.”

“This investment, tailored to the needs of our community will provide long-term care residents right here in Peterborough-Kawartha with specialized supports and services they need,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP.

The Local Priorities Fund was launched in 2022. Since then, roughly $20 million was invested in 2022-23 to help long-term care homes purchase specialized equipment and train staff to provide more specialized care according to a press release. It continues to state that the funding allows homes to welcome residents who have complex needs but no longer require acute care in hospital.

Any current residents who have new or increasingly complex medical or specialized equipment needs which could not be previously accommodated in their long-term care home can be treated on-site rather than unnecessary hospital admissions.

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Ontario Government Invests Up to $6 Million In Grants For Seniors

The Ontario Government is investing up to $6 million through the Seniors Community Grant Program to support 282 community projects that help seniors and older adults stay fit, active, healthy and socially connected.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“The Seniors Community Grants Program is a great example of how our government is working for local communities,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “We are pleased to provide funding for so many programs that bring older people together to avoid being socially isolated, learn new skills, get fit, enjoy group activities and stay connected to their neighbours and friends.”

Up to $25,000 per project is invested in local programs, services and events to provide seniors with opportunities for greater social inclusion, volunteerism and community engagement according to a press release. It continues to state that Program is a unique Ontario government grant designed to reduce social isolation, fight ageism and create positive connections.

“Seniors need to connect with the community and stay fit, healthy, and active,’’ said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “By investing in seniors programs, we will be helping more adults get the programs and services they need to live healthy, independent lives.”

Seniors Community Grants projects receiving funding in Peterborough this year include The Alzheimer Society of Peterborough Kawartha Lakes Northumberland and Haliburton. They will receive up to $23,209 to provide rural seniors living with dementia and their caregivers a series of ‘night out’ events to support socialization, reduce stigma and build a more dementia-friendly community.

Age-friendly Peterborough will receive up to $25,000 to transform the way seniors age in place by providing customized health, fitness, social, educational and recreational workshops at several City apartments primarily occupied by older adults according to Jayne Culbert, Age-friendly Coordinator.

“The proportion of older adults 65 and better increased 16 per cent in the Peterborough region from 2016 to 2021 and that number will continue to grow,”she said. “Twenty-five per cent of the residents who live in the greater Peterborough area are seniors and, in some townships, it is over 30 per cent. This is significant as the national and provincial average is 19 per cent. Receiving funding from the Ontario Government helps organizations to support our local older population through innovative projects.”

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