Are you looking to buy or sell in cottage country? I am Brad Sinclair, a dedicated Real Estate Sales Specialist with Re/Max Professionals North. As a strategic marketer and expert problem solver, I specialize in navigating the rural and waterfront markets of the Kawarthas, Peterborough, and Haliburton areas.
We are the leading authority in this region. We don't just list homes; we look to earn your business by bringing you deep local knowledge, fierce representation, and unmatched service.
🛏 3 🛏🛁 1 Bath 🛁 🏠 MLS®#: X12571634 🏠 🏠 List Price: $549,900 🏠 📣A charming family home located in the Heart of Apsley. Situated on over 6 acres this 3 bedroom home features a bright, spacious eat in kitchen with plenty of counter space and storage perfect for family meals. Natural light floods the living area, offering a bright space for family gatherings or cozy nights. On the main floor you will also find the primary bedroom and a 4 piece family bath. On the upper level are two more bedrooms New windows with stylish wood trim installed in 2022 can be found throughout the home As you move outdoors you will find an enclosed porch to enjoy those fall evenings and a large deck. A new roof was installed in 2023 as an added value to this incredible property. The detached garage is an excellent space for storage or as a workshop. The property offers over 6 acres of naturally mixed tree and vegetation perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The village of Apsley offers its residents all the amenities of a larger centre with a community centre, library, grocery store, hardware store, local shopping, eateries and more. Just 30 minutes to Peterborough or Bancroft off Highway 28N. A wonderful opportunity for a young family, couple or those looking to escape the hectic city life. 📣 📞 Call/text Brad today to learn more: 705-927-6236 📞 Brad Sinclair Sales Representative Re/Max Professionals North, Brokerage #bradsinclair#bradsinclairteam#apsleyhome#apsleyrealestate#northkawartha#northkawartharealestate#acerage#Remax#remaxprofessionalsnorth
📯SOUGHT AFTER GARDEN HOME📯 🏠 1406 Hancox Crt, Peterborough ON K9K 2M2 🏠
🛏 2 🛏 🛁 2 Bath 🛁🏠 MLS®#: X12464794 🏠🏠 List Price: $549,900 🏠📣Located in the desirable West End, this 2 bedroom, 2 bath garden home offers exceptional quality and features. As you enter, you're greeted by a spacious dining room with built-in shelving and a large window that floods the room with natural light. The open kitchen and living room design provides a wonderful layout for cooking and relaxing. The gleaming hardwood floors throughout the main floor add warmth and elegance.The primary bedroom is generously sized with a 3-piece ensuite and built-in closet storage. Downstairs, a large rec room with a wet bar, a second bedroom, and a 4-piece bathroom provide additional living space. Exterior features include low-maintenance landscaping, a convenient walkout from the kitchen to a high-quality Trex deck and lower seating area - perfect for outdoor entertaining.This home's excellent location provides easy access to many city amenities, making it a great choice for those seeking a comfortable and well-appointed living experience. 📣📞 Call/text Brad today to learn more: 705-927-6236 📞Brad SinclairSales RepresentativeRe/Max Professionals North#bradsinclair #bradsinclairteam #gardenhome #realestate #cityofpeterborough #peterboroughrealestate
**When your recreation or waterfront property is no longer rainbows and sunshine, we offer concrete solutions to Life‘s curveballs. Call us today for a clear path. We will look after it. **
Find out what you don’t know. #thebradsinclairteam🏠 www.bradsinclair.ca
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Waterfront Real Estate Sales in the Kawarthas and Highlands
#realestate #kawarthalakes #realtor #realestateagent #kawarthas #outdoor #cottagelife #lovelocal
Social Media Marketing- #instagram #facebook #google
🏡 Cottage vs. Waterfront Home: The Kawartha Lakes Trap You Can't Afford to Fall Into! ⚠️
You have the dream: Buy the summer cottage now, use it on weekends, and eventually retire there full-time. It sounds perfect.
But in the Kawartha's, the difference between a 'Cottage' and a 'Waterfront Home' isn't just about whether you have a furnace. It's a legal distinction that affects your property taxes, your mortgage eligibility, and—most importantly—whether you are actually allowed to live there in January.
Here is the essential breakdown you need before you buy or renovate:
🛑 It's Not a "Small House," It's a "Seasonal Residence"
To the municipality and MPAC (the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation), these are distinct asset classes:
Asset Type Definition & Key Features
Waterfront Home Designed for year-round habitation. Has permanent heating, a potable water source that doesn't freeze, and access to a municipally maintained and plowed road.
Cottage (Seasonal) Intended for recreational use. Often on a private road that isn't plowed by the city, may draw lake water with no winter water, and might legally prohibit use as a principal residence.
💰 MPAC & Your Property Tax Bill
A common myth is that cottages have a 'cheaper tax rate.' FALSE. Both fall under the same 'Residential' tax class.
The difference is in the valuation:
MPAC determines if your property is 'Seasonal' or 'Year-Round' based on:
Access: Is the road public and plowed?
Winterization: Do you have permanent heating/insulation vs. just a wood stove?
Water: Is your water source certified year-round?
🚨 THE KICKER: If you renovate a seasonal cottage into a permanent home (add a furnace, insulate pipes), you significantly increase its assessed value. Your tax rate is the same, but your tax bill will jump significantly once MPAC reassesses the upgrade.
🗺️ The "Seasonal" Trap: Zoning & Limited Service Residential (LSR)
If your potential cottage is zoned LSR (Limited Service Residential), it typically means the property is on a private road.
"Limited Service" means:
❌ No Garbage Pickup: You're driving your trash to the dump.
❌ No Snow Plows: The city won’t clear your road. (Emergency services might not reach you in February!)
❌ No School Buses: They will not come down your road.
Many LSR zones explicitly prohibit using the structure as a 'principal residence.' You must legally maintain a primary address elsewhere!
✅ The Conversion Checklist: 3 Things to Check
Want to convert that seasonal cottage to a permanent home? It's more than a new furnace.
The Road Access Agreement: You might need to upgrade your private road to municipal standards for full service, a cost that can be hundreds of thousands.
The Septic System: Seasonal systems are rated for 'weekend use.' Moving in full-time will likely require a new, larger septic permit.
Development Charges: Tearing down a small cottage to build a large home may trigger new development charges. (Though you may get a credit for the existing structure—check this before you demolish!)
The Kawartha lifestyle is unbeatable, but you have to buy with your eyes open. A "cottage" is a recreational asset; a "waterfront home" is a lifestyle commitment with higher carrying costs.
🔑 Action Items for Buyers:
Ask for the MPAC assessment code (This reveals the current classification).
Ask about the road maintenance agreement.
Check the municipal zoning map for the specific property.
What are your thoughts on Limited Service Residential zoning? Let us know in the comments! 👇
#KawarthaLakes#RealEstateTips#CottageLife#WaterfrontHome#MPAC#LSR#BuyingInKawartha#OntarioCottage*When your recreation or waterfront property is no longer rainbows and sunshine, we offer concrete solutions to Life‘s curveballs. Call us today for a clear path. We will look after it. **
Find out what you don’t know. #thebradsinclairteam🏠 www.bradsinclair.ca
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Waterfront Real Estate Sales in the Kawarthas and Highlands
#realestate#kawarthalakes#realtor#realestateagent#kawarthas#outdoor#cottagelife#lovelocal
Social Media Marketing- #instagram#facebook#google
Planning a trip to Bancroft? 🏞️ You HAVE to visit High Falls in Birds Creek! This stunning spot is where the York River begins its journey from Baptist Lake, and the falls from the dam are absolutely breathtaking. Pack a picnic, bring your camera, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature! #HighFalls #BirdsCreek #Bancroft #YorkRiver #BaptistLake #Waterfall #OntarioTravel #ExploreOntario #NatureLovers #HiddenGems
The 2025 inspection season (running from May 20th to August 29th) focused specifically on Area 5, Part 2. Here is everything you need to know about how the program operated, from exemptions to the step-by-step inspection process.
📍 Who Was Inspected in 2025?
The focus for this season was Part 2 of Area 5, covering 8 specific lakes within Harcourt Park. If your property is within 30 metres of the water on one of these lakes, it was on the list:
Allen Lake
Big Barnum Lake
East Lake
Straggle Lake
Little Straggle Lake
Charlie George Lake
Kennaway Lake
Long Lake
The goal? To identify systems needing upgrades and ensure compliance with By-Law 2024-24.
🚫 Inspection Exemptions
Not every property on the list required a new inspection. Owners could be removed from the 2025 schedule if they met specific criteria and provided proof:
New Systems: The system was newly installed or fully replaced within the last 5 years.
Advanced Treatment Units: The system uses an improved quality treatment unit with a current service agreement and compliant annual effluent samples.
Recent Compliance: The property completed re-inspection requirements under a previous program within the last 5 years.
🔍 The 10-Step Inspection Process
Curious about what happens when the inspector arrives? The process is thorough but straightforward. While it can vary slightly based on accessibility, here is the standard workflow:
1. Arrival & Intro: The inspector arrives, introduces themselves to the owner (if present), and gathers contact info/email for reporting. 2. Voluntary Walk-Through: The inspector requests a voluntary walk-through of the dwelling to confirm bedroom counts and identify fixtures for flow testing. Water is often run to prepare for the test. 3. Accessory Buildings: A quick check of any bunkies or garages to confirm their use. 4. Visual Tank Check: Lids are lifted off both chambers of the septic tank for a visual inspection of components and levels. 5. Sludge & Scum Check: The inspector uses a "Sludge Judge" tool to measure the thickness of sludge and scum layers. 6. The Flow Test: Water is drained from the house fixtures. The inspector watches the flow into the tank, through the second chamber, and out to the bed to ensure no blockages. (They may also clean the effluent filter if needed). 7. Closing Up: Lids are reinstalled. 8. Property Scan: A final walk-around to ensure the property complies physically (e.g., no unauthorized structures over the bed). 9. Lake Health Assessment: A complimentary assessment of the waterfront is done to educate owners on shoreline health. 10. Reporting: Back at the office, the report is finalized and emailed to the owner with any necessary remedial actions.
🚛 When is a Pump-Out Required?
You don't always need a pump-out, but specific "red flags" will trigger a mandatory pump-out order:
Age: The tank was installed prior to 1980.
No Records: The Municipality has no permit on file.
Material: The tank is made of something other than concrete, plastic, or fiberglass.
Fullness: Scum/sludge levels occupy 1/3 or greater of the settling chamber's capacity.
Malfunction: Any visible issues with tank levels or function.
Note: If you had a pump-out within 1 year of the inspection date, you could submit that invoice instead of doing it again.
📝 Third-Party Inspections
Property owners had the option to hire their own inspector rather than using Municipal staff. However, strict rules applied:
Inspectors must be qualified under Part 8 of the Ontario Building Code.
They must have signed a 10-point agreement with the Municipality.
Only Approved Third-Party Inspectors (listed on the municipal website) were accepted.
Owners were required to submit these reports via the website along with a $50 review fee. In 2025, 108 third-party reports were submitted for Area 5.
💰 Fees and Invoicing
The costs associated with the program are approved by Council under By-Law 2024-24. Invoices were prepared by the Tax Department and applied directly to the property tax account.
Service
Fee
Sewage System Maintenance Inspection
$220.00
Inspection Outside Program Schedule
$320.00
Remedial Action Septic Review
$150.00
Partially Complete Return Inspection
$100.00
Vacant Lot / No Plumbing Confirmation
$100.00
3rd Party Inspection Report Review
$50.00
Failed 3rd Party Inspection Attempt
$50.00
Note: If a property required multiple attempts to complete the inspection, multiple $220 invoices were issued.
Sick of the City Grind? Here’s How to Find Your Perfect Kawartha Lake
Are you dreaming of that perfect cottage escape but feeling totally overwhelmed by the choices? You aren’t alone. There are over 250 lakes in the Kawarthas region. How do you possibly choose?
Stop scrolling and take a breath. Today, we are cutting through the noise.
The Kawarthas are legendary for a reason. They are accessible from the GTA, visually stunning, and offer that classic Canadian Shield experience. But here is the truth: not all lakes are created equal. A boater’s paradise might be a privacy seeker's nightmare.
I’m taking you on a deep dive into five specific lakes—the absolute best spots for three different vibes: ultimate family fun, endless boating adventures, and serious, serene privacy.
Let’s find your lake.
1. Chemong Lake: The Boater's Playground
The Vibe: High Energy, Social, & Action-Packed
If you hate sitting still and love horsepower, say hello to Chemong Lake. This is the action hub of the region. Why? Because it is part of the "Tri-Lakes" system, meaning it connects directly to Pigeon Lake and Buckhorn Lake without the need for locks.
The Deep Dive (Insider Tips):
The Pros: It’s busy, energetic, and incredibly social. This is the ideal spot for families with teenagers who want to be where the action is (tubing, waterskiing, and visiting friends).
The Cons: It is a big, open lake, so wind can get choppy.
What to Watch For: Chemong is relatively shallow in many big bays. This is great because it warms up fast for swimming in June, but it means significant weed growth later in the summer. If you are viewing property here, check the weed conditions in August, not just May.
Best For: Unlimited boating and socializing.
2. Chandos Lake: The Family Gold Standard
The Vibe: Crystal Clear, Community-Focused, & "Goldilocks" Sized
Head a bit further north to North Kawartha, and you’ll find a lake that consistently ranks as a family favorite: Chandos Lake. It is often called the "Goldilocks" lake—big enough for great boating, but small enough to maintain a tight-knit community feel.
The Deep Dive (Insider Tips):
The Water: Chandos is spring-fed with excellent water quality, making it incredible for swimming and snorkeling.
The Traffic: Because it is not on the Trent-Severn Waterway, you don't get the transient boat traffic. The only people on the water are the people who love Chandos.
The Terrain: Expect a mix of sandy shorelines and dramatic rocky outcrops.
Best For: Swimming and making lifelong family memories.
3. Stoney Lake: The Iconic "Jewel"
The Vibe: Historic, Upscale, & Scenery-Heavy
You can’t talk about this region without mentioning the "Jewel of the Kawarthas." If you want that rugged, Canadian Shield look—exposed pink granite rocks and windswept pines—this is it.
The Deep Dive (Insider Tips):
The Culture:Stoney Lake feels historic and a bit upscale. It has a fantastic community centered around sailing regattas, tennis clubs, and even its own church on a rock.
The Boating: It is on the Trent-Severn, so the cruising is spectacular and can take you right through incredible lock systems.
The Warning: The name "Stoney" is literal. This lake is full of rocks just below the surface. If you buy a boat here, you need a good chart plotter, and you must pay attention to the markers. It can be stressful for novice speed-boaters until you learn the channels.
Best For: Scenery, sailing, and the classic cottage vibe.
4. Kasshabog Lake: The Rugged Escape
The Vibe: Wild, Winding, & Adventurous
Let’s head a little deeper into the woods to Kasshabog Lake, or "Kosh" as the locals call it. If Stoney Lake is the country club, Kosh is the cool, slightly wilder cousin.
The Deep Dive (Insider Tips):
The Topography: Kosh is long, winding, and loaded with islands and hidden bays. It feels significantly more remote than Chemong, even though it isn't much further away.
The Traffic: It is landlocked from the main Trent system, so you won't see giant cruisers passing through. Traffic is mostly locals.
The Shoreline: It is very rugged. You are less likely to find expansive sandy beaches here, but more likely to find deep, clean water perfect for jumping off a rocky dock.
Best For: Paddling (canoe/kayak), exploring, and a "remote" feel.
5. Paudash Lake: The Privacy Pinnacle
The Vibe: Deep Water, Silence, & Northern Beauty
Finally, for those of you who want the rugged experience without the Trent-Severn boat traffic, we head slightly north to the stunning Paudash Lake. This is where you go for silence.
The Deep Dive (Insider Tips):
The Terrain: Known for dramatic Canadian Shield terrain and towering pines that often hide cottages from view.
The Water: This is a fantastic, large lake known for incredible water clarity. Like many deep lakes, the shoreline often drops off quickly.
The Entry: While deep water makes for great swimming, it means wide, shallow sandy entries for toddlers are less common. Paudash is for the buyer who wants rugged beauty and peace.
Best For: Deep water swimming, fishing, and total silence.
Which Lake Vibe is Yours?
That was the whirlwind tour! To recap:
Chemong for action.
Chandos for swimming.
Stoney for scenery.
Kasshabog for exploring.
Paudash for peace.
I genuinely want to know which one spoke to you. Are you Team "Party on the Pontoon" or Team "Leave Me Alone in the Woods"?
Drop a comment below with your pick and tell me why! And if you are ready to start looking for your own slice of the Kawarthas,bradsinclair.ca let's chat.
There is a moment that happens when you drive north into the Kawarthas from the GTA. The traffic thins out, the air smells a little sweeter, and your shoulders naturally drop a few inches.
For many, Ennismore, Ontario, isn't just a dot on a map—it’s the ultimate escape. Nestled between lakes and rolling countryside, it offers that rare blend of cottage-country serenity and real-world convenience. And right now, there is a unique opportunity to own a slice of this paradise.
If you have been dreaming of waterfront living without sacrificing modern luxury, let me introduce you to 563 Dalhaven Rd.
Why Ennismore and Chemong Lake?
Before we talk about the house, we have to talk about the water. Chemong Lake is part of the Tri-Lakes system and the iconic Trent-Severn Waterway. Living here means:
Endless Boating: You aren't landlocked. You can boat into Buckhorn, Pigeon Lake, or navigate the locks all the way out to the ocean if you really wanted to!
Four-Season Recreation: From trophy bass and walleye fishing in the summer to snowmobiling and ice fishing in the winter, the lake is alive year-round.
The Best of Both Worlds: Ennismore offers a tight-knit community feel, but you are only minutes away from Bridgenorth for groceries and the LCBO, and a short drive to Peterborough for hospitals, Costco, and fine dining.
Spotlight on 563 Dalhaven Rd: A Masterclass in Craftsmanship
Properties on the water often force you to choose: do you want a great view with an old, drafty cabin, or a modern home with no soul?
563 Dalhaven Rd requires no compromise.
This five-year-old home was lovingly designed and crafted with an obsession for detail. It is a modern sanctuary built to maximize the beauty of Chemong Lake while ensuring absolute comfort inside.
1. Designed for the View
As soon as you step onto the open-concept main floor, you are greeted by sleek modern lines and an abundance of natural light. The layout was specifically engineered to accentuate the waterfront views. Whether you are prepping dinner on the large kitchen island or relaxing in the living area, the lake is your backdrop.
2. The Primary Retreat
The primary bedroom is light, airy, and positioned to overlook the water—imagine waking up to that view every morning. It features a spacious walk-in closet and a gorgeous 4-piece ensuite with a soaker tub, perfect for unwinding after a day on the boat.
3. "Invisible" Luxury & Comfort
Here is where this listing separates itself from the competition. The things you can’t see are just as impressive as the things you can. This home is built for longevity and peace of mind:
Climate Control: In-floor radiant natural gas heat (with zone control) keeps your toes warm in winter, while a heat pump provides A/C for those humid August nights.
Soundproofing: Every room has been soundproofed for ultimate privacy.
Electrical Overkill: In a display of incredible quality, each plug has its own breaker.
Reliability: An easily connected generator ensures you are never left in the dark during a storm.
Your Outdoor Oasis
The exterior of 563 Dalhaven was designed for maximum enjoyment and minimum maintenance. You didn't move to the lake to spend all weekend mowing the lawn.
Entertaining Ready: A welcoming rear patio with sliding door entry connects the indoors to the outdoors seamlessly. There is a gazebo for hosting dinners and a shed for storing your water toys.
The Water’s Edge: Walk down the landscaped yard to the armour stone entry and your private dock. This is where your summer memories will be made.
Curb Appeal: A paved driveway and thoughtful use of natural trees create a private, welcoming entrance.
The Verdict
Located on a private road in a quiet area, this home offers the retreat you’ve been looking for. It is quality over quantity, luxury without pretension, and nature right at your doorstep.
563 Dalhaven Rd isn't just a house; it’s the lake lifestyle perfected.
Property at a Glance:
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2 (Including Ensuite)
Heat: In-floor Radiant Gas + Heat Pump
Waterfront: Chemong Lake (Armour stone + Dock)
Location: Ennismore (Minutes to Bridgenorth/Peterborough)
Are you ready to wake up to the water?
Contact me today to book your private viewing of this Ennismore gem. Trust me, the photos are beautiful, but the view in person is unforgettable.
Brought to you by: Brad Sinclair, sales representative, Re/Max Professionals North
Not intended to solict other already under contract
How do we make Apsley an even better place to live, visit, and do business?
That was the big question behind the Downtown Revitalization Survey conducted this past summer. Between June and September 2025, NK Economic Development Officer hit the streets to chat with full-time residents, seasonal cottagers, and visitors.
A recently presented the findings to the Township Council. Here is a breakdown of what was learned about our community’s strengths, challenges, and future opportunities.
Who Was Heard from?
The survey gathered detailed feedback from 48 participants. While the group was small, the conversations provided deep insights into how different people experience our downtown.
35% were Full-Time Residents
27% were Seasonal Residents
35% were Visitors
Heard from a wide range of voices, from those who have lived here for over 10 years to first-time tourists.
The Good News: What Was Love About Apsley
The results highlighted two major areas where Apsley shines:
The People are the Priority: The number one strength identified was friendliness. 73% of you rated the friendliness of downtown businesses as "Excellent." Community pride is strong here.
Safety First: 83% of respondents agreed that Apsley feels safe, even at night.
Local Loyalty: There is a massive desire to support local businesses. 81% of respondents agreed they try to shop locally whenever possible. Among full-time residents, that number jumped to 94%.
The Challenge: Why People Shop Elsewhere
While the desire to shop locally is high, the reality is often different. Many respondents admitted that Apsley is their primary spot for weekly needs, but 52% still travel elsewhere (mostly to Peterborough) due to price and selection.
Top Concerns:
Product Availability: Only 38% felt that local businesses currently meet all their needs.
Store Hours: While most found hours acceptable, there is a desire for more consistent opening times.
Infrastructure: Public amenities, parking, and sidewalks were frequently rated as "fair" or "needing improvement."
Your Wishlist: What Apsley Needs
It was asked what new businesses or services you would like to see. The top requests included:
Health & Wellness: More clinics and wellness services.
Food & Retail: A farmers market, affordable groceries, and more restaurants/cafés.
Family Fun: Playgrounds and family-oriented amenities.
The Future: Support for Proposed Changes
It was asked for your thoughts on specific improvements to the downtown core (Burleigh Street). The community support for infrastructure upgrades was very strong:
76% want better Wayfinding Signage (to help people find their way around).
73% support dedicated Sidewalks on Burleigh Street.
71% want a Speed Limit Reduction on Burleigh Street to make it safer for pedestrians.
71% support creating more Off-Street Parking.
What’s Next?
This survey is just the first step. These insights—combined with the one-on-one feedback received by the Economic Development Officer—will help shape the Downtown Revitalization process.
The Township is looking at how to prioritize cost-effective improvements that balance growth with preserving the nature and history that make North Kawartha special.
Ensuring firefighters have reliable, up-to-date protective equipment is not just a regulatory requirement—it is a moral imperative. In a recent report to Council (Report Fire Chief-2025-06), Fire Chief Chuck Pedersen outlined a strategic plan to replace aging bunker gear while navigating new safety standards and securing the best possible price for taxpayers.
Here is a breakdown of the recommendation and its implications for the Douro Dummer community.
The Challenge: Changing Standards and Expiring Gear
The next three years mark a significant replacement cycle for the department’s "bunker gear"—the heavy-duty jackets and pants firefighters wear to protect themselves from extreme heat and hazardous environments.
For 2025 alone, the department budgeted for 18 new sets of gear. However, a hurdle appeared in May when the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) announced upcoming changes to safety standards. To ensure Douro-Dummer didn’t purchase gear that would arguably become obsolete, the department paused the traditional Request for Proposal (RFP) process to wait for the new specifications.
Those new standards (effective March 1, 2026) were finalized in November, requiring an update to our gear specifications.
The Solution: Streamlined Procurement
Because traditional bidding processes can be lengthy, and the clock is ticking on the expiring gear, Chief Pedersen recommended utilizing the Canoe Procurement Group of Canada.
What is Canoe? Canoe is a cooperative purchasing program that vets vendors and tenders contracts on behalf of public sector entities. Think of it as "collective buying power." It allows municipalities to skip the long administrative delays of tendering individually because Canoe has already done the heavy lifting to ensure trade compliance and competitive pricing.
By using Canoe, the Fire Department can purchase from a trusted Ontario-based vendor that:
We have experience with.
Is already approved by Canoe.
Fits within Douro-Dummer's current budget.
The Financial Win: Buying Smart
The recommendation to Council wasn't just about speed; it was about smart economics.
The report recommends purchasing both the 2025 and 2026 gear allocations together.
2025 Budget: The purchase fits entirely within the approved budget.
2026 Strategy: By committing to the 2026 purchase before February 1st, the municipality avoids a planned industry price increase.
This proactive approach means the department secures essential safety equipment for the next two years while coming in below budget for the 2026 allocation.
Conclusion
By leveraging the collective power of the Canoe Procurement Group, Douro-Dummer are cutting through red tape to put safety first. This decision ensures Douro-Dummer firefighters are equipped with gear that meets the latest, rigorous safety standards without delay, while realizing significant cost savings for the community.
Great news for our winter enthusiasts! We know how much snowmobiling adds to the vibrancy of Haliburton during the colder months, and it is Haliburton's goal to make it easier for riders to access the great restaurants and shops in the east end.
Dysart el al Parks and Recreation team, led by Director Andrew Wilbee, has been hard at work exploring options to bring snowmobilers closer to the heart of the community, especially when the ice on the lake isn't safe for travel.
The Journey So Far: HCSA Weighs In
The town of Haliburton recently met with the Haliburton County Snowmobile Association (HCSA), and they are happy with the current designated parking area near the Welcome Centre. Snowmobilers are already using this area and walking to restaurants along Highland and Maple Avenue without issue—which is fantastic!
However, the main concern is providing a reliable, off-lake access route. This is especially important for safety when the conditions are unpredictable.
The Proposed New Access Route: From Sam Slick to Head Lake
To address the need for a safe alternative route, Haliburton staff is proposing a path that runs parallel to the Head Lake walking trail, starting at Sam Slick Park and ending at the boat launch.
The Plan: Create a marked and signed path.
The Catch: HCSA cannot take on any more trails, and their groomer won't fit. This means the Council would need to approve and accept responsibility/liability for this new route.
The Next Steps: Snowmobilers would then travel from the boat launch through the Head Lake parking lot to reach the existing designated snowmobile parking area near the Welcome Centre.
🚦 Two Options to Get Even Closer to the Action
Once riders are parked at the Head Lake designated area, staff have explored two options to get them closer to the bustling intersection of Maple Avenue and Highland Street:
Option 1: A Quick Hop to York Street 🛵
This is the simpler approach:
Create an opening in the fence of the current snowmobile parking area.
Allow snowmobilers to pass through onto York Street.
Riders can travel along York Street and park in the upper library parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis.
Option 2: Through Head Lake Park to the Lower Library Lot 🏞️
This option would bring riders right up to the doorstep of the main retail area, but it comes with higher risks:
Create an opening at the far end of the designated snowmobile parking area to access Head Lake Park.
The Library CEO would need to be notified and approve parking in this lot.
⚠️ Important Consideration for Option 2: Haliburton staff warned council that they need to be transparent about the risks. Before the current designated parking area was installed, Head Lake Park infrastructure (benches, paved pathways, sprinkler systems, and memorial trees) was damaged by snowmobilers driving off-trail. Choosing Option 2 means a higher risk of parks infrastructure being damaged, even with a marked trail.
💰 The Financial Impact
The good news is that the initial investment is manageable. Staff estimate approximately $1,500 will be required to purchase the necessary stakes and signage to clearly mark and delineate the proposed trail(s) for the new route from Sam Slick Park and whichever final option Council chooses.
What Happens Next?
This recommendation is now before the Mayor and Members of Council for review. They will weigh the benefits of bringing snowmobilers closer to our businesses against the potential costs and liability, particularly concerning the two options for the final leg of the journey.
We’ll keep you updated on the decision! Which option do you think is best for our community and our park infrastructure? Let us know in the comments!
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