🚨 ATTENTION KAWARTHA/HIGHLANDS BUYERS & RENEWAL CLIENTS: 3.69% Bond Yields & October Rate Hike Risks! 🚨

If you're actively shopping for a home or have a mortgage renewing over the next few months, today's market shifts demand your immediate attention!

Canadian 5-year benchmark bond yields closed trading yesterday at 3.69%—continuing to push near their highest levels of the month. Sustained bond yield pressure is directly squeezing wholesale lender margins, putting fixed mortgage rates under continuous upward stress.

Here is what you need to know about the Bank of Canada, our local Peterborough market, and why your 120-day rate hold is your most critical tool right now:

1. October Rate Hike Probabilities are Rising 📈

Following the Bank of Canada's September 2 decision to hold the policy rate at 2.25% (prime rate at 4.45%), financial markets have completely pivoted.

• The Shift: Money market probability models are no longer looking for rate cuts—they are now actively pricing in a 62% probability of a 25 bps rate hike at the next BoC meeting on October 28, and a 100% probability of a hike by December 9.

• The Impact: With persistent energy prices and 2.3% core inflation, lenders are tightening discretionary buydown budgets across major channels.

2. Audit Your 120-Day Rate Hold Immediately ⏱️️

• Current insured 3-year fixed rates are holding between 3.99% – 4.14%, but sub-3.90% promotional offers have been completely pulled.

• Your Action Step: If you locked in a pre-approval under 4.00% earlier this summer, verify your exact expiration date today! Protecting an active rate hold guarantees your purchasing power and prevents you from being forced to re-qualify under higher October rate sheets.

3. Peterborough Buyers Still Hold Regional Leverage 🏘️

The local Peterborough & Kawarthas real estate market continues to give structured buyers a clear advantage:

• City Median Price: Holding steady between $545,750 and $560,000.

• Market Time: Sitting balanced at 33 average days on market (DOM).

• Negotiation Power: Standard detached homes continue closing a median $14,000 to $20,000 below list price.

Because local inventory isn't rushing off the market in days, you do NOT need to waive your protective clauses. You can negotiate price while keeping your financing, appraisal, and home inspection clauses firmly in your offer.

YOUR TODAY STRATEGY:

1. Check the expiry date on your 120-day mortgage pre-approval.

2. If you don't have a rate hold locked in, secure one TODAY to freeze current rate tiers before October adjustments.

3. Pair your locked-in rate hold with a smart, conditionally protected offer on local Peterborough listings.

Questions about how 3.69% bond yields affect your borrowing capacity? Send me a message or text today—let's make sure your budget is locked in! 🤝👇

Brad Sinclair, your Kawartha and Highlands Realtor®

I'll come to you to solve your real estate needs. DM or text me to get started.

📞 705-927-6236

👤 Brad Sinclair | RE/MAX Professionals North

📍 Your Inside Source to the Highlands/Kawartha Real Estate Market

🌐 brad-sinclair.remax.ca

Families love the Kawarthas. Let's find your place in it. ❤️🏡

#PeterboroughRealEstate #KawarthaLakes #MortgageUpdate #BondYields #BankOfCanada #Peterborough #BradSinclairTeam #REMAX #HighlandsRealEstate #OntarioRealEstate #CottageCountry

Minden Hills Council Update: Major Floodplain Mapping, Planning Overhauls, and Community Decisions 🌊🏡

Staying up to date on local municipal decisions is essential to protect your property investments, understand zoning limitations, and track where local tax dollars are going. The Township of Minden Hills met on September 24, 2026, for a regular Council meeting that addressed major updates to local planning, environmental hazard mapping, and municipal services.

Below is an extensive breakdown of the topics presented, the public service impact, and what these developments mean for property owners and buyers across Minden Hills.

🚨 The Big News: Major Floodplain & Mapping Overhaul (Report #26-37)

Executive Summary & Decision Status

• Status: Council held a statutory Public Meeting under the Planning Act to review proposed Zoning By-law Amendment Report #26-37. No final decision or vote on passing the amending by-law occurred during this meeting; Council received the report for review and comment.

• Proposal: Updating Zoning By-law 06-10 Schedules (mapping) to align Floodway (FW) zones and Flood Risk (FR) overlays along the Gull River with the 2025 County of Haliburton/Ganaraska Region Conservation Authority mapping project.

• Expansion: For the first time, formal floodplain boundaries are being introduced on Zoning Schedules capturing the Drag, Burnt, and Irondale Rivers.

Why It Matters to Locals

Flooding represents the single largest natural hazard in terms of property damage and financial cost. Prior mapping for the Gull River dated back to the 1988 Flood Damage Reduction Program (FDRP). The new Flood Hazard Identification and Mapping Program (FHIMP) updates flood boundaries using modern elevation and flow modelling.

While these updates better protect public safety, remapping means certain properties previously thought to be outside hazard zones may now fall within the Flood Risk Overlay or Floodway Zone—or vice versa.

Local Perspective & Lifestyle Impact

For shoreline residents along the Gull, Drag, Burnt, and Irondale Rivers, maintaining healthy riverbanks and protecting natural floodway paths is essential to preserving water quality, preventing erosion, and protecting home values. Updating these maps ensures that future construction does not inadvertently block floodwaters or cause severe downstream damage to neighbouring properties during spring run-off.

🏷️ Property Impact Note

If your parcel falls into a Floodway (FW) Zone, new structural development, site alteration, or footprint expansions are generally strictly prohibited. If your land falls into the Flood Risk (FR) Overlay, development remains possible, but you will face additional engineering requirements, strict floodproofing elevation standards, and verified safe access constraints.

📜 Planning & Zoning Modernization: General Official Plan & By-law Amendments (Report #26-38)

Executive Summary & Decision Status

• Status: Council received Report #26-38 as information following a statutory Public Meeting. The formal by-laws to adopt Official Plan Amendment No. 20 (OPA 20) and pass the corresponding Zoning By-law Amendments are scheduled for consideration on October 8, 2026.

• Proposal: Implementing target fixes from the Development Approvals Project (DAP) to eliminate confusion, align policies with the Provincial Planning Statement (PPS 2024) and County Official Plan, and streamline accessory structure rules.

Key Policy Changes Breakdown

1. Consent Lot Creation (Section 6.2.2.1):

   • Adjustment: Aligns the Township Official Plan with the County Official Plan.

   • Rule: Establishes a maximum of three cumulative new lots plus one retained (4 total) via consent on any existing conveyable lot of record (unless both severed and retained parcels are at least 40 hectares).

2. Waste Management Influence Areas (Section 3.3.10):

   • Rule: Introduces a strict 500-metre influence zone surrounding active and closed waste disposal sites.

   • Impact: New sensitive land uses (residential) proposed within 500 metres must provide technical studies addressing methane migration, leachate, noise, odour, and water safety. Vacant lands within this zone will be zoned with a Holding (H) symbol until water and environmental safety are proven.

3. Mineral Aggregate Resource Protections (Section 3.6):

   • Rule: Updates separation distances and compatibility studies for development near aggregate operations.

   • Buffers: Defines adjacent lands as 500 metres for bedrock deposits/quarries and 300 metres for sand/gravel pits (with a 1,000-metre area of influence for active operations). Proponents of new residential uses near pits must complete an Aggregate Impact Assessment proving their build won't hinder pit operations.

4. Accessory Structure Rule Changes (Zoning By-law 06-10):

   • Lot Coverage Increase: Detached accessory structure coverage is increased from 5% to 6% of total lot area.

   • Uniform Building Heights: Accessory building heights are standardized to 5.5 metres (peak) and 1 storey across the lot, removing the restrictive 3.5-metre limit within 40 metres of the high-water mark.

   • Garages: Clarifies that 2-storey detached garages (up to 6m height) may house a sleeping cabin, Additional Dwelling Unit (ADU), or home occupation on the upper level, but prohibits living space in single-storey garage lofts. Detached garages may also be set back 2.0 metres from interior side/rear lot lines.

   • Sleeping Cabins: Maximum floor area expanded from 35 sq. m to 45 sq. m (484 sq. ft). Clarifies that cabins cannot include kitchen facilities or wet bars, nor can they be used as short-term rentals.

   • Shipping Containers: Explicitly permitted in Rural, Institutional, Commercial, and Industrial zones (maximum 2 per lot, screened from street view, set back 6.0m if abutting residential).

🏷️ Property Impact Note

These amendments provide much-needed flexibility for rural property owners looking to build larger accessory garages or guest sleeping cabins without needing a costly Minor Variance. However, buyers looking at vacant land near former landfills or active aggregate quarries must budget for technical environmental studies before receiving building permits.

🤝 County Consent Process Modernization: "One-Window" Approach (Delegation 6.2a)

Executive Summary & Decision Status

• Status: Council received Report PLN-11-2026 and a presentation from Elizabeth Purcell, Director of Planning for Haliburton County.

• Decision: Council officially endorsed the proposed "one-window" consent application approach.

Why It Matters to Locals

Under the previous system, severance applicants were bounced back and forth between municipal and county offices, forced to pay double fees, and required to get local Council endorsements before technical studies were even finished. The new stream directs all inquiries to the County, circulating plans internally to local staff. Local Council endorsement now happens after a complete application package is compiled, eliminating months of pre-consultation delays.

🏷️ Property Impact Note

If you are planning to sever a portion of your rural property or execute a lot line adjustment, this change reduces administrative delays, eliminates duplicate pre-consultation fees, and provides a clear, unified checklist of required submission studies right from the start.

⚙️ Public Works & Infrastructure Reports

1. Minden Animal Hospital Sanitary Pumping Station Agreement (Report #26-18)

• Decision: Council authorized the Mayor and Clerk to execute an agreement (By-law 26-87) with the Minden Animal Hospital for a sanitary pump station.

• Details: Due to recurring municipal sewer backups verified to be on the Township's side of the property line, the Township will pay to install a small sanitary pump station out of its operational budget. The property owner will assume all ongoing routine maintenance and electrical costs.

• 🏷️ Property Impact: Protects local commercial operations from municipal sewer failures while safeguarding municipal infrastructure without burdening taxpayers with ongoing private operational maintenance.

2. Drinking Water System Financial Plan 2026–2032 (Report #26-25)

• Decision: Council endorsed, in principle, the 2026 Drinking Water System Financial Plan prepared by the Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA) under O. Reg. 453/07.

• Details: Required every six years for Municipal Drinking Water License renewals. Forecasts operational costs and capital reserves required to maintain safe drinking water through 2032.

• 🏷️ Property Impact: Ensures long-term financial stability and safe drinking water for municipal water users, helping maintain high property values for homes connected to local municipal services.

3. Winter Sand Contract Award (Report #26-26)

• Decision: Council directed staff to award the municipal winter sand supply contract to Total Site Services for $134,650.00 plus HST.

• 🏷️ Property Impact: Directly impacts local winter road safety and travel conditions across the Township's rural road network during winter months.

🏒 Community Services Updates

1. Haliburton Huskies Junior "C" Hockey Agreement (Report #26-16)

• Decision: Council authorized an agreement (By-law 26-86) with the Haliburton Huskies Junior "C" Hockey Team and directed staff to update Policy #76 (Ice Facility Allocation Policy) to formally incorporate the Junior "C" team.

• 🏷 Property Impact: Boosts local sports culture, drives youth community engagement, and increases municipal arena facility utilization.

2. Haliburton County Snowmobile Association (HCSA) Parking (Report #26-18)

• Decision: Council received Report #26-18 regarding HCSA overnight parking as information.

• 🏷 Property Impact: Supports local winter tourism and snowmobiling infrastructure, driving economic activity for local small businesses during the off-season.

📑 Planning Consent Agenda & Shore Road Allowance Sales

Council referred the following routine land deeming and Shore Road Allowance (SRA) closure applications to the By-law section for final approval:

1. Report #26-41 (Groat - Application PLDBL2026050): Deeming Lot 7 of Plan 542 not to be part of a registered plan of subdivision (By-law 26-81) to consolidate property title.

2. Report #26-42 (Wood - Application PLSRA2025020): Closure and sale of original shore road allowance (By-law 26-82).

3. Report #26-43 (Lamont - Application PLSRA2025048): Closure and sale of original shore road allowance (By-law 26-83).

4. Report #26-44 (Vlahaki - Application PLSRA2025082): Closure and sale of original shore road allowance (By-law 26-84).

5. Report #26-45 (Coupal - Application PLSRA2025090): Closure and sale of original shore road allowance (By-law 26-85).

🏷️ Property Impact Note

Purchasing your original shore road allowance adds deeded land area to your waterfront parcel, increases setbacks, secures dock structures, and often adds immediate equity value to waterfront real estate.

🗞️ Summary of Previous Meeting Minutes (September 10, 2026)

During the previous meeting on September 10, 2026, Council executed several key operational items:

• Delegated Authority Official Plan Amendment No. 19 (OPA 19): Held a Public Meeting to review delegating minor technical zoning approvals (like lifting Holding symbols) to senior staff to speed up planning timelines.

• Minden Library Retaining Wall Contract: Awarded RFP 2026-04 for the removal and replacement of the Minden Library retaining wall and access ramp to BBC Construction for $288,800 plus HST (funded in part by an ICIP accessibility grant).

• Financial Statements Approved: Formally accepted the 2024 Audited Consolidated Financial Statements presented by Pahapill and Associates.

• OPP Cost Concerns: Received correspondence regarding provincial policing costs, noting the provincial cap of an 11% increase for 2027 while small rural municipalities advocate for cost-model reviews.

👇 Help keep our community informed—hit Share to pass this update along to your neighbours. 🏫✨

Questions about anything REAL ESTATE?? Call me for a consultation to help you get to the path of YOUR success…

📞 705-927-6236

👤 Brad Sinclair | Realtor® RE/MAX Professionals North

📍 Might as well have the BEST to accomplish your goals.

Families love the Kawarthas/Highlands. Let’s find your place in it.

Just the Front Page-September 2026

• 🎭 Arts Take Center Stage in Mayoral Debate: All seven candidates for Peterborough Mayor expressed strong opposition during the recent ArtsVote Peterborough debate against proposed efficiency cuts to local culture. Candidates emphasized that stable funding for institutions like the Art Gallery of Peterborough and the Canadian Canoe Museum is vital for tourism, economic growth, and downtown vitality.

• 🔒 Police Chief's Closed-Door Session Sparks Controversy: Peterborough Police Chief Stu Betts defended holding a closed-door session with municipal election candidates, describing it as an educational briefing on local policing and crime trends. While attending, councillors noted dropping crime rates; the exclusion of the public, media, and campaign managers drew criticism regarding transparency.

• 🌊 Conservation Authority Amalgamations Unlikely to Cut Costs: Kawartha Conservation CAO Mark Majchrowski advised Kawartha Lakes council that the province’s plan to consolidate 36 conservation authorities into nine regional bodies is unlikely to reduce municipal levies. Governance will transition to single- and upper-tier municipal representatives ahead of the target date on February 1, 2027.

• 🎖️ Peterborough Army Cadet Receives Top Provincial Honour: Chief Warrant Officer Mikaela Andrews of the 2672 Hastings and Prince Edward Regiment RCACC was presented with the Army Cadet League of Canada President's Bar for the Medal of Merit at the Peterborough Armoury. Recognized as Ontario's top cadet, she will serve as keynote speaker during Cadet Week celebrations!

• ✈️ Local Travellers Experience Historic EU-Canada Encounter: A group of 50 Peterborough travellers visiting Saint Pierre and Miquelon found themselves in the middle of history when Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and French President Emmanuel Macron made a joint visit to the island, highlighting international ties and economic collaboration.

• 🐾 Highland Park Hosts "Bless Your Pet" Event: In partnership with the Peterborough Humane Society, Highland Park Funeral Centre held a moving community blessing and remembrance service for pets and past animal companions, officiated by Rev. Mary Bell-Plouffe.

• 🦋 Tracking Kawartha Monarch Butterflies South: Local naturalist Drew Monkman highlighted an innovative research initiative at Fleming College’s Frost Campus in Lindsay! Students attached solar-powered radio transmitters to monarchs named "Connie" and "Sandy," tracking their epic migration south toward Mexico via the Project Monarch app.

🏒 Local Sports

• 🏒 Adam Novotny Rejoins Peterborough Petes: Star forward Adam Novotny returned to the Petes lineup for their game against the Sarnia Sting following his time at the Vancouver Canucks' NHL training camp—giving the team a welcome offensive spark!

• 🚣 Two Local Athletes Reach RBC Training Ground National Final: Trent University rower Emilie Mirfield and former Fleming College rugby player Robyn Ellis were chosen among 100 national finalists competing in Toronto on October 3 for Olympic development funding.

• 🏒 Mike Fisher Returning to Peterborough for Charity Game: Peterborough native and former NHL star Mike Fisher will suit up for the Ottawa Senators Alumni team against the Toronto Maple Leafs Alumni on November 6 at the Peterborough Memorial Centre to raise funds for the GPHSF Concussion Fund.

📢 Notices & Public Announcements

• 📋 Township of Cavan Monaghan Development Charges: Notice was issued regarding By-law No. 2026-47 passed on September 8, 2026, updating municipal-wide development charges. Appeals to the Ontario Land Tribunal must be filed by October 19, 2026.

• 🏠 City of Peterborough Municipal Tax Sales: Public tenders have been advertised for the sale of tax-delinquent properties at 2193 Springwood Rd. and 155 Stewart St., with bids closing on October 20, 2026.

• 📡 Bell Mobility Telecommunication Tower Proposal: Bell Mobility has announced a public consultation for a proposed 30-meter slim monopole tower at 1482 Lansdowne St. W. A Public Information Meeting takes place on October 20, 2026, at the McDonnell Street Community Centre, with public comments open through October 30, 2026.

🌐 National & International News Briefs

• ⚖️ Ontario Legal Challenge to Federal Gun Ban: The Ontario government will argue at the Supreme Court in November that the federal government's 2020 ban on "assault-style" firearms is unconstitutionally vague regarding its definition of "variants."

• 🌍 World Briefs: U.S. President Donald Trump hosts Chinese President Xi Jinping for state talks, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses the UN General Assembly, and Canadian astronaut Joshua Kutryk prepares for an upcoming space mission to the ISS.

👇 Help keep our community informed—hit Share to pass this update along to your neighbours. 🏫✨

Questions about anything REAL ESTATE?? Call me for a consultation to help you get to the path of YOUR success….

📞 705-927-6236

👤 Brad Sinclair | Realtor® Re/Max Professionals North

📍 Might as well have the BEST to accomplish your goals.

Families love the Kawarthas/Highlands. Let’s find your place in it.

Morning Coffee, Strategic Negotiations & Real Family Life in the Highlands 🌲🏡☕

The alarm hasn't even gone off yet, and I’m already up, coffee in hand, diving headfirst into my daily planning ☕🌅. Something about the quiet early hours in the Kawarthas sets the tone for everything to come. By mid-morning, I was out walking with my wife, Susan, and our dog, Jax 🐕🚶‍♂️, soaking in the crisp autumn air before hitting the road.

Living and working in the Highlands and Kawarthas means every day is a mix of high-stakes business and real-world family life 🌲🏡. Yesterday was a masterclass in both.

On the real estate front, I spent a good portion of the day in deep strategic negotiations for a local farm listing 🌾. A buyer's agent brought in an aggressive lowball offer—a massive $350,000 drop from our asking price, assuming the market was in a tailspin. But here’s the thing: market perception from headline news doesn't equal local reality 📊.

I put together a comprehensive Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) grounded in hard, local data to show that list-to-sale price margins in our region are actually very tight. Standing firm on valuation isn't about being stubborn; it's about protecting my client's hard-earned equity and guiding them with objective, data-backed strategy rather than panic. We countered at a fair value, holding our ground while keeping the door open for realistic buyers.

Between contract reviews and market analysis, I shifted gears to grass-roots community work 🗳️. I loaded up my truck and hit the road to place municipal campaign signs across Dungannon and Bancroft, stopping to chat with neighbours and dropping off sign requests for local supporters along Hwy 28 🚗📍. The Highlands are built on real community connection, and being out there "belly-to-belly" with folks is always the highlight of my route.

Family always comes first, and yesterday required some firm family leadership. We made the principled decision to have Lucas move back to Apsley to play hockey this year 🏒🚫. What we desire for a location for our son to play is where the focus is on growth, community, and true sportsmanship 🏒🏔️.

To wrap up the afternoon, I squeezed in cutting the lawn at home before finishing up drafting my daily path targets 🚜📝.

Navigating the real estate market—much like navigating family logistics—can feel completely overwhelming if you don't have the right guide in your corner 🧭. When buyers try to test your limits with lowball offers or complex contractual traps, it’s easy to make emotional decisions that cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars 📉.

Without deep local knowledge and strong, data-driven negotiation strategies, people often find themselves accepting bad terms, leaving money on the table, or taking on massive post-closing liabilities with property warranties ⚠️.

You don't have to navigate these massive life choices alone or gamble with your home’s true value. When you work with a trusted local expert who knows the terrain, holds the line during tough negotiations, and handles the heavy lifting, you get complete peace of mind 🤝✨. Imagine selling your property for what it's actually worth—backed by facts, protected by tight contracts, and executed seamlessly so you can focus on your family's next adventure 🏠🌲.

Don't let market noise or weak positioning hold you back. If you’re ready to make your next move in the Kawarthas or Highlands, let’s sit down and build a strategy that wins 🤝.

Brad Sinclair, your Kawartha and Highlands Realtor ®

I'll come to you to solve your real estate needs. DM or text me to get started. Questions? Let’s chat.

📞 705-927-6236

👤 Brad Sinclair | Re/Max Professionals North

📍 Your Inside Source to the Highlands/Kawartha Real Estate Market

Families love the Kawarthas. Let’s find your place in it.

Check me out here: https://brad-sinclair.remax.ca

Regional News & Community Shorts! September 22nd, 2026

Municipal operations and local access are front and center this week. A major city efficiency review outlines potential cost-saving measures for Peterborough, including parking and admission fees for non-residents at Riverview Park and Zoo, as well as shifting sidewalk snowplowing duties. Meanwhile, members of Curve Lake First Nation are speaking out after the province installed barriers at a historical Burleigh Falls parking area without consultation, raising significant treaty rights concerns.

On the health and governance front, Lakelands Public Health is advising local councils against adopting BYOB bylaws for community events to mitigate health risks and municipal liability. Local voters will also have the chance to meet candidates one-on-one at the upcoming Electionfest on October 1 at Healthy Planet Arena!

Out in the community, the Kawartha Autumn Studio Tour brings 52 regional artists to life this weekend, and the 5th annual Trees 4 Peterborough project is looking for volunteers to plant 500 native trees at Heritage Park on Saturday. Over in local sports, the Peterborough Rugby Club inducted three community legends into its Wall of Fame, while the Adam Scott junior girls basketball team claimed the early-bird tournament title!

Local & Regional Shorts!

Peterborough & Region

• Peterborough County OPP Continue Investigation Into 2024 Cold Case Homicide: OPP investigators continue to appeal for public information following the arrest of an 81-year-old Peterborough resident charged with second-degree murder and indignity to a human body in connection with a 2024 cold case homicide in the region. The accused remains in custody awaiting a court appearance later this week.

• Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Week Continues Downtown Celebrations: Downtown events, educational workshops, and community showcases are entering their second week as part of Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Week, running through September 27 across the city and surrounding townships.

• Efficiency Review Suggests Ways City Can Save Money: An efficiency review conducted by Ernst & Young suggests Peterborough could save $20 million to $30 million over four years through measures like implementing parking fees ($1.75–$2.50/hour) and out-of-town admission fees ($15/adult, $5/child) at Riverview Park and Zoo, stopping residential sidewalk snowplowing, and revising corporate sponsorships and municipal grants.

• Woman Tired of Being Unhoused: Kathrine Williams, a 55-year-old Trent University graduate student living in a retrofitted shuttle bus, faces uncertainty as the season ends at Beavermead Campground, where she paid $3,850 for a seasonal site after experiencing local evictions and parking lot removals.

• Four Years into $10/Day Program, Some Ontario Wait-Lists Growing: Child-care wait-lists in Ontario have lengthened significantly under the affordable daycare expansion, leaving parents struggling to find local spots as advocates call for expanding space creation rather than solely lowering daily fees.

• Public Board to Amend School Policy Regarding Using Video in Classrooms: The Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board plans to revise its learning resources and digital communications policies by late 2026 to set clear guidelines for YouTube and video usage in classrooms following a delegation from a local parent.

• Annual Kawartha Autumn Studio Tour Returns: The 42nd annual Kawartha Autumn Studio Tour features 52 participating artists across 42 studio stops from Stoney Lake to Keene, alongside a featured exhibition at the Art Gallery of Peterborough.

• Community Events & Fundraisers: Local upcoming initiatives include the Aces of Harmony "Country Roads" concert supporting the Peterborough Children's Chorus, The Misfits fundraising concert for One City Peterborough, Community Care Peterborough's "Golf Fore Care" at Wildfire Golf Club, the Canadian Canoe Museum's Lakeside Gala, and a Houseplant and Garden Social benefiting the PRHC Foundation.

• Help Plant the Future of Peterborough's Urban Forest: Peterborough GreenUP, the City of Peterborough, and RBC Wealth Management are hosting the 5th annual Trees 4 Peterborough Community Tree Planting Event at Heritage Park on September 26 to plant roughly 500 native trees along Riverview Creek.

• Car, Truck and Corvette Show in Buckhorn: The Buckhorn Community Centre hosted its classic vehicle show featuring a range of models, while announcing upcoming local programming and a municipal candidate debate organized by the Buckhorn Ratepayers Association for October 6.

• Glow Ride Returns During Peterborough Pride Week: Town Bike presents the P(RIDE) Glow Ride on Thursday evening starting at Quaker Foods City Square as part of Peterborough Pride Week, which culminates in the annual Pride Parade on Saturday.

• ArtsVote All-Candidates Mayoral Debate: The Electric City Culture Council is hosting "ArtsVote," an all-candidates mayoral debate focused on the local arts sector, at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre on Wednesday evening.

• Falls Access Was Blocked Without Any Consultation: First Nations: Members of Curve Lake First Nation and Kawartha Nishnawbe First Nation state that Infrastructure Ontario infringed on Treaty 20 harvesting and cultural rights by installing barriers at a Burleigh Falls parking lot without prior consultation.

• Son Remembers His Father Beyond the News Headlines: Jesse Walker shares a personal tribute to his father, Michael Walker, who disappeared near Kinmount and Minden in November 2023, urging the public for empathy following second-degree murder charges laid against his grandfather, Basil Walker.

• Electionfest Returns to Peterborough: The Peterborough Examiner and the Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce are hosting Electionfest on October 1 at Healthy Planet Arena, allowing voters to speak directly with local ward and mayoral candidates.

• Health Unit Asks Municipalities to Refrain from BYOB Bylaws: Lakelands Public Health advises local municipalities against passing bylaws under Ontario's Bring-Your-Own-Beverage legislation, citing rising regional alcohol-related emergency room visits and municipal liability risks.

• Take Back the Night Marked with Downtown March and Vigil: The Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre and community partners held the annual Take Back the Night march, vigil, and drum performance in downtown Peterborough to protest sexual violence.

• Lakelands Public Health Releases Five-Year Strategic Plan Priorities: Lakelands Public Health outlined core priorities for its upcoming five-year strategic plan—including mental health, addictions, primary care access, and extreme weather—while addressing budgetary challenges following its regional merger.

• 73rd Annual Curve Lake First Nation Traditional Pow Wow: Curve Lake First Nation celebrated its 73rd annual Traditional Pow Wow, "Rooted in Tradition," at Lime Kiln Park with traditional drumming, dancing, and honor ceremonies.

• German Youth Fire Brigades See Rising Popularity: Germany's youth fire brigades report a 42% increase in youth membership over five years, engaging young people early through affordable community programming and team-building.

Bancroft & Area Focus

• 35th Annual Bancroft & Area Studio Tour Wraps Up First Major Weekend: The 35th annual Bancroft & Area Studio Tour officially concluded the first of its two multi-day weekend runs. Local artisans and workshop hosts across Bancroft, Hastings Highlands, and surrounding North Hastings townships reported strong visitor numbers as art lovers and early fall foliage travelers explored juried paintings, woodwork, pottery, and jewelry. The tour will return for its final two-day run this coming weekend, September 26–27.

• Cardiff All-Candidates Meeting Hosted by Health Democracy Project Set for This Week: Voter registration and question submissions remain active for the upcoming municipal all-candidates forum in Cardiff organized by the Health Democracy Project. Local candidates running across Highlands East and North Hastings will address pre-submitted resident questions focused directly on rural emergency room stability, doctor recruitment initiatives, and local elder care services.

• North Hastings Community Centre Rink Prepares to Open Ice Surface: Municipal arena operators in Bancroft are conducting final surface checks at the North Hastings Community Centre following the installation of a delayed cooling plant component. Rink doors are scheduled to open this week for minor hockey, figure skating, and public recreational skating.

• North Hastings Hospital "Care in the Cart" Campaign Celebrates Continued Community Backing:Following the successful completion of the $1.25-million Care in the Cart fundraising goal, local healthcare advocates in Bancroft are highlighting the upcoming delivery schedule for new emergency diagnostic tools and patient monitoring equipment heading to North Hastings Hospital.

Haliburton County

• Algonquin Highlands Election Profiles Published as Municipal Races Progress: As reported by kawarthaNOW, municipal candidates running in the Township of Algonquin Highlands have released formal candidate profiles detailing why they are seeking office. Key platform issues presented to voters include managing rural roads, environmental protections for local lakes, and municipal tax stabilization.

• Hike Haliburton Festival Concludes Successful Four-Day Fall Outdoor Event: Organizers and trail leaders across Haliburton County concluded the 2026 Hike Haliburton Festival. Featuring over 40 guided walks across local forests and heritage trails, the annual autumn event drew hundreds of hikers to sample local culinary stops, logging history tours, and early fall colours.

The Kawarthas & Peterborough County

• Telemedicine Clinic Launches at Ennismore Pharmacy in Selwyn Township: kawarthaNOW reports that Ennismore Pharmacy in Selwyn Township has opened a new virtual telemedicine clinic to expand rural primary care access. The service connects unattached local residents and seniors directly with Ontario-licensed physicians for consultations, prescription renewals, and non-emergency health evaluations.

• SIU Clears OPP Officers in Investigation of May Death in Cobourg Detachment: The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) has officially terminated its investigation, clearing OPP officers of criminal wrongdoing following the May death of a 28-year-old man who was held in custody at the Cobourg OPP detachment.

Local Sports

• Petes Comeback Bid Against Wolves Falls Short: The Peterborough Petes fell 2-1 to the Sudbury Wolves, dropping to 0-2 on their OHL season despite a 29-save performance by debut goalie Owen Nelson and a third-period goal by James McMurray.

• Minor Hockey Season Arrives with Storylines: Local columnist Chris Hardill outlines key minor hockey storylines for the 2026-27 season following the Pat Larock Memorial Tournament in Peterborough, including team developments across the Quinte Red Devils and Whitby Wildcats.

• P.R.U.F.C. Adds Three to Wall of Fame: The Peterborough Rugby Union Football Club inducted founder Tony Emary, player/volunteer Bob Keay, and international player Brian McCarthy onto its Wall of Fame at the Nicholls Oval clubhouse.

• Adam Scott Captures Early-Bird Basketball Tournament Crown: The Adam Scott Collegiate junior girls basketball team won the Peterborough Board of Approved Basketball Officials early-bird tournament title by defeating Holy Cross 52-42.

Notices & Announcements

• County of Peterborough Land Division Committee Notice: The County of Peterborough issued public notices for consent applications across multiple townships, including Dummer, Otonabee, Belmont, Galway, Harvey, Ennismore, Cavendish, and Lakefield, with public feedback accepted until October 6, 2026.

  
  

  
  

  Brad Sinclair, your Kawartha and Highlands Realtor ®. I'll come to you to solve your real estate needs. DM or text me to get started. Questions? Let’s chat. 📞 705-927-6236 👤 Brad Sinclair | Re/Max Professionals North 📍 Your Inside Source to the Highlands/Kawartha Real Estate Market Families love the Kawarthas. Let’s find your place in it.

  
  
  
  

Strategic Real Estate & Community Update: Kawartha Lakes City Council Blueprint 🏘️✨

 Here is your comprehensive breakdown of the major council directives and long-term planning initiatives established during the recent City of Kawartha Lakes council sessions. As your trusted local real estate expert, I bring you clear, actionable insights on how these municipal decisions shape property values, local living, and future developments across our region! 🌲⚓

🏛️ Comprehensive Council Digest: Key Impactful Decisions

 Housing & Multi-Residential Regulations: Council directed municipal law staff to build a formal licensing and regulatory framework for rooming and lodging houses, targeting final implementation by Q2 2027.  

 Regional Transit Master Plan Expansion: Approved the release of the Draft 10-Year Regional Transit Master Plan for broad public and agency consultation, paving the way for expanded transit connectivity across urban centers and rural hamlets.  

 Clean Energy & Hydroelectric Initiatives: Formally received site plans and proposal requests for a 3-megawatt run-of-the-river hydroelectric plant along the Burnt River in Somerville, directing staff to draft an overarching Consultation Protocol for energy projects by Q2 2027.  

 Conservation Authority Regional Consolidation: Evaluated provincial plans to merge local conservation bodies into the Eastern Lake Ontario Regional Conservation Authority (ELORCA) and Lake Huron Regional Conservation Authority (LHRCA), protecting core watershed services and development review protocols.  

 Strategic Growth & Official Plan Amendments: Approved significant residential settlement expansions in Lindsay, including the Melody Gardens development (543 total units) and the Bromont Lindsay development (1,035 total units), both incorporating dedicated lands for municipal affordable housing.  

 Rural & Waterfront Zoning Modifications: Adopted localized site-specific zoning amendments across Dunsford (Sturgeon Road), Somerville (Nevison Drive), and Emily (Mitchell Drive) to recognize severed residential lots, off-grid structures, and multi-lot waterfront subdivisions.  

 Community Healthcare & Infrastructure Leases: Authorized execution of long-term commercial lease agreements for the Summit Wellness Centre in Coboconk to host a retail pharmacy, medical clinic, and local food bank.  

⚡ The Big News & Controversy: High-Occupancy Housing & Energy Siting

🏘️ Rooming House Regulations & Neighbourhood Density

What’s Happening: Following impassioned deputations from local homeowners regarding neighborhood safety, property upkeep, and unmanaged tenant density (notably within residential subdivisions like The Ravines of Lindsay), Council voted to establish a strict licensing and enforcement program for rooming and lodging houses.  

Why It Matters to Locals: Unregulated high-density rentals can place significant strain on suburban infrastructure, street parking, and neighborhood aesthetics. Establishing clear licensing protocols balances the critical need for affordable housing options with protecting the quiet enjoyment and long-term integrity of single-family residential communities.  

🌊 Hydroelectric & Renewable Energy Siting on Burnt River

What’s Happening: Proponents presented plans for a 3 MW run-of-the-river hydroelectric generation facility near Monck Road on the Burnt River. While seeking a preliminary municipal support resolution for provincial procurement, Council opted to establish a formal Municipal Consultation Protocol before granting overarching project greenlights.  

Why It Matters to Locals: Clean energy production is vital for regional growth, but shoreline properties, recreational river corridors, and sensitive environmental zones require rigorous environmental impact assessments, public transparency, and First Nations consultation.  

🏡 Real Estate Impact: Property Values & Market Dynamics

 Subdivision Density Boosts Supply: The inclusion of over 1,500 new residential housing units across Lindsay’s settlement boundary (Melody Gardens and Bromont developments) will increase structural inventory, providing much-needed housing diversity and entry-level options.  

 Waterfront & Rural Infill Certainty: Approved zoning amendments in Dunsford, Somerville, and Emily validate existing off-grid structures and facilitate residential lot severances. Clear municipal zoning paths directly boost property marketability and bank financing ease for buyers.  

 Community Wellness Enhancements: Finalizing healthcare and pharmacy lease terms at the Summit Wellness Centre in Coboconk drastically improves rural living convenience, elevating property appeal for retirees and young families moving to northern Kawartha Lakes.  

🍃 The Local Perspective: Protecting the Kawartha Lifestyle

Municipal choices directly touch our daily rural and waterfront routines. Standardizing conservation authority oversight across regional watersheds ensures our pristine lakes, waterways, and shorelines maintain high ecological health standards without creating unnecessary friction for residential land permits. Furthermore, establishing dedicated speed limits (such as posting 60\text{ km/h} on Somerville 3rd Concession) and expanding public transit plans keeps our rural transit routes safe, accessible, and connected.  

🏡 Property Impact Summaries

Topic 1: High-Occupancy & Rooming House Licensing

 Property Impact: Mandatory rooming house licensing prevents neighborhood decline, stabilizes single-family home valuations, and provides clear operational guidelines for multi-residential property investors.  

Topic 2: Burnt River Hydroelectric Energy Proposal

 Property Impact: Establishes essential municipal oversight protocols to safeguard riverfront property values, water levels, and shoreline environmental integrity before industrial energy projects proceed.  

Topic 3: Conservation Authority Amalgamation (ELORCA/LHRCA)

 Property Impact: Maintains consistent development reviews, environmental hazard mapping, and flood protection standards across waterfront and acreage properties throughout Kawartha Lakes.  

Topic 4: Lindsay Urban Settlement Expansions (Melody Gardens & Bromont)

 Property Impact: Drives regional economic expansion and stabilizes surrounding residential property value growth by supplying structured housing inventory and dedicated municipal infrastructure.  

Topic 5: Rural & Waterfront Rezoning Approvals (Dunsford, Somerville, Emily)

 Property Impact: Directly enhances individual parcel marketability, secures legal property compliance, and unlocks latent land equity through severances and approved residential footprint extensions.  

Topic 6: Summit Wellness Centre Leases (Coboconk)

 Property Impact: Boosts long-term desirability and resale value for northern Kawartha Lakes cottages and residential homes by securing essential localized healthcare services.  

📜 Summary of August 25, 2026 Council Minutes

During the previous regular meeting on August 25, 2026, Council executed several key actions:  

 Celebrated environmental stewards through the Bee a Hero and Environmental Hero Awards.  

 Endorsed the 2026-2031 Museum Blueprint and designated historically significant properties under the Ontario Heritage Act.  

 Reviewed the Q2 Operating Budget Update, maintaining stable fiscal oversight and infrastructure funding frameworks.  

 Received public deputations on eco-tourism proposals in Norland and agricultural development charge relief.  

 Extended redevelopment credits for property improvements in Fenelon Falls (38 Oak Street) through December 31, 2027.  

🤝 Your Partner in Kawartha Lakes Real Estate

Navigating local zoning By-laws, municipal official plan amendments, and shoreline regulations can feel overwhelming whether you are buying your dream waterfront cottage or selling a rural acreage. As a local market expert with RE/MAX Professionals North, I am here to help you protect your investment and make confident, informed real estate decisions.

👇 Help keep our community informed—hit Share to pass this update along to your neighbours. 🏫✨

Questions about anything REAL ESTATE?? Call me for a consultation to help you get on the path to YOUR success…

📞 705-927-6236

👤 Brad Sinclair | Realtor® RE/MAX Professionals North

📍 Might as well have the BEST to accomplish your goals.

Families love the Kawarthas/Highlands. Let’s find your place in it! ❤️🏡