Thursday, July 23, 2026

Just the Front Page, What is happening around Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Bancroft and Haliburton-July 24th, 2026

🗞️ Morning Briefing: Peterborough & Kawarthas Front Page News

Get caught up on everything happening around Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Bancroft and Haliburton in less than 3 minutes.



🏛️ Local Politics & Public Expenses

MPP David Piccini Expense Filings Draw Scrutiny

Financial filings show that the Progressive Conservative riding association for Labour Minister David Piccini (MPP for Northumberland-Peterborough South) spent $40,000 on events and meetings. Expenses included:

  • Sushi-rolling and dumpling-making classes in Toronto

  • High-end restaurant dining and an arcade lounge

  • Meals at a Florida golf course and beach venue

While Elections Ontario confirmed no official rules were broken, opposition leaders have sharply criticized the spending choices.

Town Ward Candidates Clash Over Missing Lawn Signs

First-time Peterborough city council candidate Jenni Cathcart reported several campaign signs stolen from Homewood Avenue, expressing concern over name recognition as a newcomer. Incumbent councillors Alex Bierk and Joy Lachica noted that missing signs are an unfortunate political reality that shouldn't distract voters from core election issues.

🚑 Safety, Emergency & Justice

Severe Propane Explosion at Bellmere Winds Resort

Emergency crews rushed to Bellmere Winds Golf Resort in Keene following a violent cottage explosion. A 63-year-old Warkworth man employed at the resort suffered severe injuries and was rushed for urgent medical care. The exact cause of the ignition remains under investigation.

Peterborough Killer’s Sentence Reduced Over Frigid Cell Conditions

Geoffrey Riley received a 13-year sentence for the April 2024 manslaughter of William Tobin and aggravated assault of Courtney Bartley. However, Justice Bhavneet K. Bhangu granted Riley a 9-month sentence reduction after learning inmates at Central East Correctional Centre were left outside in −20°C weather for 90 minutes without gloves or proper footwear during a cell search—treatment the judge called "shocking."

Serial Commercial Break & Enter Suspect Arrested

Peterborough Police arrested a 42-year-old Ottawa man following downtown commercial break-ins. Officers linked the suspect to a July 14 incident on Hunter Street and a July 20 break-in on Charlotte Street involving over $5,000 in stolen cash and merchandise. He faces multiple B&E and probation breach charges.

Impaired Driver Crashes into Tree, Flees on Watercraft

A 25-year-old Peterborough man faces dangerous driving and impaired driving charges after striking a tree on Centennial Lane in Trent Hills. Police report the driver fled the crash scene on a personal watercraft before officers intercepted him shouting at the public on a nearby road.

🚌 Community & Healthcare Initiatives

Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Equips Trucks with Sensory Support Kits

To better assist neurodivergent individuals, children, and residents experiencing severe anxiety during emergencies, Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue vehicles are now equipped with specialized sensory kits. Kits include noise-cancelling headphones, fidget tools, and communication boards.

Peterborough Transit Launches Youth Pass Pilot

The City of Peterborough rolled out a new Youth Transit Pass Pilot Program providing discounted, streamlined bus access across all city routes through the remainder of summer and the upcoming school year to support local youth mobility.

New Canadian Blood Services Donor Centre Opening at Lansdowne Place

A new donor centre opens Monday, July 27, inside Lansdowne Place mall next to the food court, replacing the former George Street North location. Advocate Lynn Witteveen noted that the annual blood drive honouring her late partner, Dr. Andrew Chan, will take place at this new location.

🌳 Parks & Economic Strategy

Peterborough Strategy Shifts "Beyond Smokestacks"

The City unveiled a revised economic strategy developed by McSweeney & Associates. The plan shifts municipal focus away from traditional heavy manufacturing recruitment toward resident attraction, small business retention, and sector diversification.

Emily Provincial Park Expands by 72 Acres

The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks announced a 72-acre expansion for Emily Provincial Park. The added wetland and shoreline along the Pigeon River near Omemee will protect key local biodiversity.

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🏡 Thinking of Buying or Selling Real Estate in the Kawarthas?

Whether you're looking for your dream cottage, a family home, or an investment property in Peterborough & the Kawarthas, let's get you on the path to success!

📞 Call/Text: 705-927-6236

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Just the Front Page, What is happening around Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Bancroft and Haliburton-July 24th, 2026

🗞️ Morning Briefing: Peterborough & Kawarthas Front Page News Get caught up on everything happening around Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes...