City Hall
INFO FOR POTENTIAL CANDIDATES
The municipality is hosting an information session for individuals interested in running for Kawartha Lakes City Council or School Board. On Tuesday, July 14 from 4pm to 6pm, all members of the public are welcome to join the session and learn about:
• The roles and responsibilities of elected officials and staff
• Eligibility to run for various offices
• The nomination process
• Important dates
• Campaign finances and compliance audits
• What’s unique about the Kawartha Lakes Municipal Election
The session will also feature a guest speaker from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
There will be an opportunity for prospective and registered candidates to speak with election staff oneon-one to ask questions.
There are two ways to attend:
• In person: Council Chambers, City Hall, 26 Francis Street, Lindsay. There is limited capacity in Council Chambers. There will be over-flow space in the Victoria Room on the second floor of City Hall.
• Online: The Information Session will also be live streamed on the City of Kawartha Lakes YouTube Channel.
For more information on the 2026 Municipal Election, please visit kawarthalakes.ca/election.
FLEXIBILITY FOR CKL ORGANICS PROGRAM
Since June 15, the City of Kawartha Lakes’ organics collection program was launched and those involved were limited to one regular garbage bag per week. Some residents have expressed concerns about managing diaper and incontinence waste within the one-bag garbage limit.
Officials listened and, as of June 29, households participating in the City’s organics program will be allowed to set out one additional garbage bag containing only diapers and/or incontinence products on their regular collection day.
The change follows a recommendation approved by Council on June 23 to amend the City’s Waste Management By-Law.
This exemption is available to households currently receiving organics collection service in Bobcaygeon, Fenelon Falls, Lindsay and Omemee.
Food scraps and other accepted organics must continue to be placed in the organics bin and not in garbage bags. Residents in the organics collection program can set out:
• One regular garbage bag; and
• One additional bag containing only diapers and/ or incontinence products.
• The additional bag must not contain any other household waste.
• A second bag of mixed household garbage will not be collected.
Residents who require additional waste due to medical reasons may also be eligible for support through the City’s Medical Waste Register. More information is available at kawarthalakes.ca/MedicalWaste.
For more information about the organics program, accepted materials, and waste collection requirements, visit kawarthalakes.ca/Organics.
STAY RESPONSIBLY IS THE NAME OF THE GAME
The arrival of cottage season means more people are enjoying everything Kawartha Lakes has to offer. With visitors arriving throughout the summer, it’s a good time for short-term rental (STR) owners, guests and neighbours to learn about the resources available to help everyone Stay There Responsibly.
“Short-term rentals play an important role in welcoming visitors to Kawartha Lakes and supporting our local economy,” said Aaron Sloan, Manager of Municipal Law Enforcement. “Our goal is to make sure everyone has the information they need to enjoy their time here while helping keep our communities safe, welcoming and enjoyable for all.”
For Owners
If you rent all or part of your property for a period of less than 28 consecutive days, you are required to have a Short-Term Rental Accommodation Licence. The licencing program helps ensure rental properties meet safety requirements and provides owners with resources to operate responsibly.
Owners are encouraged to share local information and rental guidelines with their guests before they arrive.
You can apply, renew, or find more information at www.kawarthalakes.ca/STRowners
For Visitors
A vacation rental is a great way to experience everything Kawartha Lakes has to offer, from waterfront sunsets and campfires, to local restaurants, trails and attractions.
Guests should be aware of local information during their stay. This includes:
• Waste collection
• Parking
• Open-air burning rules
• Fireworks regulations
• Noise restrictions (noise such as music and loud activities should be quieted by 11pm)
A little planning goes a long way toward ensuring a fun and enjoyable visit for everyone. Visitors can find helpful information before and during their stay at kawarthalakes.ca/STRvisitors
For Neighbours
Do you have questions or concerns about a short-term rental in your neighbourhood? We have a dedicated 24/7 Short Term Rental Hotline and online reporting tool. The CKL by-law team can respond to concerns related to a short-term rental property, including:
• Waste
• Occupancy limits
• Other rental-related issues
Call 705-990-2497 or fill out the form online.
When a concern is reported, staff review the information, investigate when required, and work directly with property owners and operators to address issues and encourage compliance. The focus is on resolving concerns and supporting responsible rental operations throughout the community.
Learn more about the Short-Term Rental program, licensing requirements, renter information and community resources at kawarthalakes.ca/STR.
Whether you’re hosting, visiting, or living nearby, we all play a part in making Kawartha Lakes a welcoming place to enjoy. This summer, remember to Stay There Responsibly.
PROVINCE INVESTS IN EDUCATION IN BUCKHORN
The Ontario government is continuing to deliver on its plan to protect Ontario and ensure students have access to modern classrooms by investing $1.6 billion in 79 school construction projects across Ontario. The investments will support growing communities by creating over 29,000 new student spaces and over 1,900 licensed childcare spaces so students have the modern learning spaces they need to succeed in their studies and prepare for in-demand careers.
Locally, the province is investing $6.4 million for a new addition at Buckhorn Public School to create more student spaces and childcare spaces in a growing community. This project will, when complete, deliver 98 new elementary student spaces and 49 new licensed childcare spaces for local families in the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board.
“This investment to expand Buckhorn Public School is a major milestone for local families and a vital step forward for Trent Lakes and the surrounding area,” said Dave Smith, MPP. “I am absolutely thrilled to see this project advance, as it directly addresses the growing demand for child care and modern student spaces throughout our neighboring communities. By expanding this facility, we are ensuring that youth across the region have access to a safe, up-to-date, and fully equipped learning environment right close to home for years to come.” MPP Smith added.
The Capital Priorities program supports the construction of new schools, permanent additions, renovations and school purchases. This year’s funding will support a combination of new school builds, expansions and retrofits across the province and is part of Ontario’s commitment to provide more than $22 billion over 10 years to support new school construction, renewal and improvements.
“Student success starts with having the right environment to learn,” said Paul Calandra, Minister of Education. “We’re building the school’s students need, and we’re making sure they get built quickly and on schedule. With stronger oversight and accountability
Branch 77 Lakefield (705) 652-7988
through the Putting Student Achievement First Act, we are ensuring projects are delivered on time and focused on students, so that parents can be confident their children have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.”
“As part of our government’s historic capital plan, we are investing $236 billion in critical infrastructure to build and protect Ontario,” said Todd McCarthy, Acting Minister of Infrastructure. “Through these investments, we are helping deliver new and improved schools across the province to support students, local jobs and growing communities.”
“We want schools to be at the heart of the communities they serve, from preschool to graduation. We extend our sincere thanks to the provincial government for this capital investment that makes it possible to better support our students here at Buckhorn Public School,” says Paul Brown, Chairperson of the Board, Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board. “We are very excited for the opportunity to enhance this school, which we know will benefit our students and families in the Buckhorn school community for many years to come.” Paul Brown added.
MIDNIGHT MADNESS IN FENELON
From explorefenelonfalls.com
Fenelon Falls residents know that summer’s official kickoff happens on Moonlight Madness. A night when downtown businesses extend their hours and offer shopping promotions, live music plays throughout the streets, and family-friendly activities are enjoyed.
This year, Moonlight Madness is on Saturday, June 27, from 5pm to 10pm. There’s an incredible lineup of businesses participating this year throughout the downtown core that will offer special deals all evening. As well, there are some special activities planned:
• Country Cupboard - Hickory Beach Hat Bar (trucker hat + accessory bar, where you can pick and customize your own trucker hat with lettering, patches, and accessories!)
• Fenelon Falls Curling Club - BBQ, beer garden, and live music from 5 to 9 pm
• Maryboro Lodge - Night at the Museum 6 to10 pm (A Pleasant Soiree at Maryboro Lodge... but who knows what evil lurks within?)
• Salvation Army - Strawberry Social at Maryboro Lodge
• Tourism Office - Outdoor games plus a giant chair photo op
You can also expect some live music around town, including:
• Fenelon Falls Curling Club - BBQ, beer garden, and live music from 5 to 9 pm
• Lotus Indian Bistro - Live music by Mark Gillogy
• Ziraldo’s - Live music and specials
You can find a full map of participants at explorefenelonfalls.com.
GETTING SPEEDY ON THE ROADS
The Ontario government is raising the speed limit from 100 km/hour to 110 km/hour on an additional 938 kilometres of provincial highways. The change builds on the safe and successful increase to speeds on 10 sections of provincial highways in 2024 and six sections of provincial highways in 2022, aligning with posted speed limits in other jurisdictions across Canada.
Currently, 873 kilometres of provincial highways are posted at 110 km/hour. Once in effect, nearly 89 per cent of the province’s highway network will have a posted speed limit of 110 km/hour, up from 43 per cent today.
“Our government is helping get drivers where they’re going faster and safely,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “We’re going to keep supporting commuters, workers and businesses by investing in our $31 billion plan to build and expand roads and highways, so we can get people and goods moving across Ontario and keep workers on the job.”
Starting June 26, the province will begin increasing the speed limit to 110 km/hour on sections of Highways 401 and 416 in eastern Ontario, followed by sections on other highways, including the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) and Highways 400, 401, 402, 403, 416 and 417. With this new speed limit in place, drivers travelling from Sarnia to Toronto could save nearly 20 minutes, while those travelling from Toronto to Ottawa could save nearly half an hour.
Speed limit increases are only implemented on highways that have been designed and engineered to safely accommodate higher speeds, following rigorous technical reviews and any necessary infrastructure improvements. Most of Ontario’s freeway network was originally designed to safely accommodate a posted speed of 110 km/hour.
TRAGEDY REMEMBERED
The Balsam Lake Association is holding two events in July to remember the 100th Anniversary of the St. Andrews Canoe Tragedy on Balsam Lake.
The first is for their annual AGM for the Balsam Lake Association on Saturday, July 11 at the Coboconk Legion. Guest speaker Doug Paterson will be doing a presentation on the 100 Anniversary of the St. Andrews Canoe Tragedy on Balsam Lake. Admission is free.
The second is for the actual Memorial Day on July 18 on Balsam Lake. At 2pm there will be a Lake Flotilla (all boats are welcome) that will trace the original trip, starting at Long Point near Ant Isl. At 7pm, there will be a showing of the movie, “Brotherhood,” at the Kirkfield Historical Society. Actors from the movie will be there for a Q&A. Admission is by donation.
VETERANS HONOURED IN LAKEFIELD
The Lakefield Legion has honoured local veterans while commemorating its 100th anniversary with a new memorial crosswalk in downtown Lakefield.
The new veterans memorial crosswalk on Queen Street at the intersection with Bridge and Albert street was officially unveiled during a ceremony on Saturday (June 20), attended by representatives from Royal Canadian Legion Branch 77 Lakefield, Peterborough County, and Selwyn Township along with local veterans, the Royal Canadian Legion Colour Party, community members, and invited guests.
“The Lakefield Legion got our charter in 1926 and Branch 77 is celebrating this milestone too,” MacDonald said. “One of the big goals we had this year was to have a veterans memorial crosswalk in Lakefield. We have been wanting to make this happen for quite a while, and we thought our 100th anniversary would be a fitting time.”
Lakefield Legion Branch 77, Peterborough County, and Selwyn Township collaborated on the creation of the crosswalk, with Peterborough County contributing to the road-marking installation and Selwyn Township supporting the unveiling event as part of the Legion’s 100th anniversary celebrations.
The Veterans Memorial Crosswalk will serve as a visible year-round reminder of the service and sacrifice of veterans in the Lakefield area and the community’s continued commitment to remembrance. The project reflects the power of local partnerships and a shared commitment to recognizing the contributions of
veterans while fostering remembrance within the community.
“The crosswalk is meant to express our gratitude to the veterans in our area who have served or are still serving,” MacDonald said.
HOMEGROWN SUPPORT FOR HABITAT
Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) raised $15,000 at its third annual HomeGrown: A Habitat Garden Disco Fundraiser, presented by RBC and held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Chemong Lodge. Funds raised from the event will directly support the organization’s local affordable housing builds across the region.
Approximately 100 community members gathered at Chemong Lodge’s stunning lakeside setting for a sold-out evening that transformed the venue into a vibrant garden disco experience. Guests were welcomed into an immersive atmosphere featuring disco-themed décor, sparkling lighting, and a lively outdoor setting along the water. The evening included Chemong Lodge’s signature garden grazing installation, passed and stationed canapés, and dishes prepared on the smokehouse Argentinian grill, along with curated beverages and cocktails. A silent auction, live music, and interactive elements throughout the garden added to the celebratory atmosphere.
Homeowner stories shared during the evening highlighted the impact of affordable housing in the region. Matthew and Abby, a future Habitat family from Norwood, spoke about their experience in the early stages of the program as they complete their required 500 volunteer hours. Once their home is complete, they will move in with their children as part of Habitat PKR’s single-family home build in Norwood.
Guests also heard from Gwen, a single mother who shared her experience navigating housing instability in Peterborough’s rental market. Gwen and her son will soon move into a condominium unit at Leahy’s Lane through Habitat PKR’s buyback program, which helps ensure long-term affordability for local homeowners.
During the event, Habitat PKR shared updates on its upcoming development pipeline, with plans to bring 149 affordable homes through projects across Peterborough, the Kawarthas, and Haliburton County. These developments include three new singlefamily homes in Norwood, 40 condominium units at Keystone Court on Lansdowne Street in Peterborough, a partnership 35 unit development with Places for People in Haliburton, supportive shared living housing through Our Daughters’ Home, and a large 64 condominium development in Haliburton that will include new childcare spaces for local families.
“HomeGrown is a meaningful opportunity for our community to come together in support of affordable housing,” said Susan Zambonin, CEO of Habitat PKR. “We are grateful to share updates on our upcoming projects and to celebrate the impact we are already seeing in the lives of local families. With land secured,
strong partners in place, and a clear vision ahead, continued community support will help us move these homes forward.”
BLOODWORK CAN BE DONE IN FENELON
From Facebook
Life Labs has opened up in Fenelon Falls to service those who need to get bloodwork done for their physician.
The clinic is open on the first level of the medical building at 205 Francis Street East and it’s currently walk in only for patients from any doctor. Patients must have a requisition.
The clinic is open Monday to Friday from 7:30am to 2pm. It’s closed for lunch from 11:30am to 12:30pm.
CYCLISTS RIDE FOR MENTAL HEALTH
From kawartha411.ca
The Canadian Mental Health Association, Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) is celebrating the success of its 4th Annual Change the Cycle fundraiser, held Saturday, June 20 at Nicholls Oval.
This year’s event drew a record 92 registered riders of all ages and raised an incredible $31,620.64, exceeding the fundraising goal of $25,000. Every dollar raised stays local, strengthening CMHA HKPR’s unfunded and non-annualized mental health programs, including Social Recreation Groups, the Assertive Outreach Suicide Prevention Program, and other crucial community supports.
A highlight of this year’s ride was the debut of the official Change the Cycle theme song, “Let’s Go For a Ride,” generously provided by local band Soup. CMHA HKPR extends heartfelt thanks to its 2026 Agents of Change, Michelle Mackey, Linda Kash, Phil Jolicoeur, and Peterborough Petes mascot Roger, for championing the cause both online and in person.
“We’re incredibly proud of what this event has become and so grateful for the energy and generosity of everyone involved,” said Jack Veitch, Manager of Community Engagement & Education at CMHA HKPR. “Seeing nearly 100 riders come together, alongside our sponsors, volunteers, and community supporters, is a powerful reminder of how much people care about mental health in our region.”
CMHA HKPR acknowledges the support of our 2026 Change the Cycle sponsors: Presenting Sponsors Tom’s Heating and Cooling and Corus Entertainment; Diamond Sponsors The Pyle Group and Merrett Home Hardware; Gold Sponsors AON Inc., RBC Financial, and Sysco; Silver Sponsor Darling Insurance; Event Sponsors Billyard Insurance Group, Co-operators Insurance, Unity Design Studio, Peterborough Musicfest, Ricart Branded Apparel & Promo, and Smokey Joes.
FAMILY SUMMER READING CLUB
Get ready to make waves this summer! Kawartha Lakes Public Library invites children, teens, and families to ‘Dive In’ to a summer filled with books, activities, creativity, and adventure through Summer Reading Club 2026.
Inspired by water, lakes, rivers, and the adventures waiting just beyond the shoreline, this year’s theme encourages children and teens to explore new worlds through reading while making unforgettable summer memories. Summer Reading Club helps young readers build confidence, spark their imagination, and discover that reading can take them anywhere.
Online registration is now open, with in-person registration opening at all library branches on June 20. Participants will receive a Summer Reading Passport to track their progress, complete challenges, and celebrate their accomplishments throughout the season.
This year’s program includes reading challenges, collectible rewards, crafts, special guests, Touch-ATruck events, Storywalks, and Pop-Up Storytimes that bring stories beyond library walls and into communities across Kawartha Lakes. Participants can also enter prize draws, including a chance to win tickets to Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada.
Adults can also participate in the Library’s Great Lakes-themed Summer Reading Challenge, exploring new books and reading their way across the Great Lakes for a chance to win a YETI water bottle.
Summer Reading Club is free to join and open to children and teens of all reading abilities. Whether you’re reading picture books, graphic novels, chapter books, audiobooks, or reading together as a family, every story counts.
To learn more, register, and explore this summer’s full lineup of activities, visit the Summer Reading Club page on the Kawartha Lakes Library website. You can also stay connected throughout the summer with regular updates and activities by signing up for the library’s newsletters.
FREE FISHING WEEK
To celebrate Canada Day and encourage more people to enjoy Ontario’s world-class outdoors, Canadian residents can fish for free across the province from June 27 to July 5 without purchasing a fishing licence or Outdoors Card.
“Whether you’re a lifelong angler or casting a line for the very first time, our government is making it easier and more convenient to enjoy all that Ontario’s worldclass fishing has to offer,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources. “With free fishing available across the province, Canada Day week is the perfect time to get outdoors, spend time with family and friends, and create lasting memories on the water.”
Recreational fishing is a key part of Ontario’s economy, supporting local tourism and jobs in communities across the province. Free fishing opportunities like Canada Day week provide a chance for people to learn more about fishing on Ontario’s lakes and rivers.
For families participating in free fishing, all conservation licence catch and size limits, fishing sanctuaries and other fishing regulations still apply.
PRIDE WEEK IN CKL
From July 6 to 12, the City of Kawartha Lakes will celebrate Pride Week. Kawartha Lakes Pride presents events, including Monday, July 6
• 9:30am – Flag Raising at KLPS station in Lindsay
• 11am to 4pm – Bring Your Own Pride & Picnic Maryboro Lodge Museum in Fenelon Falls
Tuesday, July 7
• 11am – Drag Queen Story Time with Betty Baker at Kindred Coffee Bar in Lindsay
• 8pm – 70s Dance Party at The Grove Theatre
Wednesday, July 8
• 1pm – Pride Tea at Maryboro Lodge Museum in Fenelon Falls
Thursday, July 9
• 9:30am – Come as You Are Yoga – Fieldside Yoga, 1407 Elm Tree Rd
• 7pm – Pooch Pride at the Adelaide Clinic in Lindsay
Friday, July 10
• 7pm – Who Wears the Pants: A Queer Opera Experience at Immanuel Baptist Church in Fenelon Falls
Saturday, July 11
• 11am to 3pm – Pride in the Park at Victoria Park in Lindsay
• 7pm – 19+ Pride After Dark at The Pie Eyed Monk in Lindsay
Sunday, July 12
• 8am – Bird in the Word Bird Excursion and Hike at Ken Reid Conservation in Lindsay
• 10:30am – Pride Service at Cambridge Street United Church in Lindsay
For more information, follow them on Facebook.
KINMOUNT MUSIC IN THE PARK
On Thursdays in July and August, you can enjoy music by the Burnt River in the heart of Kinmount. These free outdoor concerts are fun for all ages. Austin Sawmill Park features include a children’s playground, a Millenium Garden and the famous Austin Sawmill. There are plenty of picnic tables and benches but you may prefer to bring your own lawn chairs. The park is located south of Kinmount Railway Station & Icelandic Monument alongside the Victoria/ Haliburton Rail TrailAdmission is free. Music starts at 6:30pm.
This year’s lineup features
July 9 – The Marc Ekins Band
July 16 – Keith Auty
July 23 – Richard & The Wanted
July 30 – Cash on the Barrelhead
August 6 – Melissa Payne
August 13 – Jeff & Anthony Margin Call August 20 – Jeff Moulton & Friends
August 27 - Boots of Hazard
SUMMER READING IN TRENT LAKES
It’s going to be a summer full of stories, imagination and fun with the Trent Lakes Library’s Summer Reading Program. Children are invited to log their reading throughout the summer for a chance to win exciting prizes, including a grand prize backpack filled with fun back-to-school supplies.
Along the way, there will be additional prizes and surprises to keep young readers motivated and engaged. Whether they’re diving into adventures, mysteries or their favourite series, every page brings them closer to a reward.
The summer will wrap up with a celebration party to recognize all the amazing readers! Stop into the Buckhorn Branch at 5 George Street for more information.
SUMMER = TICK SEASON
As outdoor activity increases during the summer season, the Ontario government is encouraging people across the province to take precautions to prevent tick bites and reduce the risk of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses when enjoying the outdoors.
Lyme disease is a potentially serious infection that comes from being bitten by an infected blacklegged tick, commonly known as a deer tick. If you have any symptoms such as fever, headache, chills, muscle and joint pain, fatigue and an expanding circular rash that resembles a bulls-eye, consult a health-care provider as soon as possible.
“As we head outside to enjoy the warmer weather, it is important to protect ourselves from Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “By taking simple precautions, Ontarians can protect themselves and their families while enjoying the outdoors in our beautiful province.”
You can protect yourself from tick bites by:
• Wearing light coloured clothing so it’s easier to spot ticks
• Wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants tucked into your socks and closed-toed shoes
• Using insect repellent with DEET or icaridin in it
• Checking yourself, your children and your pets for ticks after being outdoors
• Removing any found ticks promptly
• Putting clothes on high heat in the dryer for at least 10 minutes before washing clothing after spending time outdoors
• Staying on marked trails and avoiding tall grass, brush, leaf litter and along trail edges, where ticks are commonly found
“As cases of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses rise and ticks continue to expand into new areas, more Ontarians may be at risk of tick bites,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health. “Simple precautions can help reduce that risk, including being vigilant in wooded and grassy areas, even close to home, wearing appropriate clothing and doing routine tick checks after spending time outdoors.”
Ticks are very small and hard to see. When a tick is found, it should be removed immediately using finetipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to your skin as possible without crushing it. Once you have removed the tick, wash the area and your hands with soap and water, and then disinfect the area and your hands with rubbing alcohol or an iodine swab. Before disposing of the tick, call or check the website of your local public health unit to get advice on how to identify the tick. You can also submit a photo of the tick to etick.ca for identification.
If you have any health concerns after a tick bite, consult a health-care provider as soon as possible. Most cases of Lyme disease can be treated successfully with antibiotics. In Ontario, pharmacists can assess tick bites and provide medication, where appropriate, to help prevent Lyme disease, making it easier for people to access timely care.
CKL WILL BE POPPING UP
Residents will have more opportunities to connect with the City this summer as a new pop-up engagement booth travels across Kawartha Lakes.
Look for Communications Student Ella Bourgeois at events across Kawartha Lakes this summer. Her pop-up booth will be stopping at libraries, farmers’ markets, recreation facilities and community events to share information about programs, services and ways to stay connected.
The summer Communications and Engagement Booth is a one-stop shop for information about how you can connect with CKL to stay up to date with what’s happening.
As a thank you, everyone who completes a survey will be entered for a chance to win a Kawartha Lakes gift basket valued at approximately $200.
You can find the summer schedule at kawarthalakes.ca.
