City Hall
WEIGH IN ON BUDGET
The City of Kawartha Lakes is inviting residents to weigh in on the 2026 municipal budget through a new public engagement campaign: Your Budget - Your Say.
Running for the month of August, the campaign encourages everyone to learn about the budget and share their thoughts on where the City should invest more, less, or the same dollars, from health care and road maintenance to community safety, homelessness supports and more.
“Budgets are about choices,” said Mayor Doug Elmslie. “Council and I want to hear from residents about their priorities. This input will help shape our decisions on the part of the 2026 budget that is discretionary. After fixed costs, and the variable costs of delivering 200 services, there is a small part of the budget that is discretionary. This can be amended to meet community priorities as long as taxes remain affordable. I will review your feedback, and take it into consideration as I make recommendations to the Budget Committee. It’s always a balance between what priorities are requested and what the taxpayer can afford. The online tool is a great way to gather those priorities. After we’ve had our public meeting to hear from residents, the proposed Budget will go to Council for deliberation.”
The Budget Committee will work closely with staff and take into account resident input through the online engagement in August and at the November 12, 2025 Public Budget Meeting.
• Budget preparation (June 2025-September 2025):
The Budget Committee takes direction from the Mayor, and hears from staff, Boards and Agencies of Council about their requirements. Public input is gathered and taken into account.
• Draft Budget presented to Mayor (October 2025): The Budget Committee prepares a draft Budget for the Mayor to review and comment on.
• Further Public Input (November 2025): Public input on the draft budget is welcome at an evening meeting. Education on the budget is provided.
• Council deliberation (November 2025): Mayor presents the Budget to Council for deliberation. The Mayor can veto Council’s amendments during a defined period of time.
• Mayor’s veto period: Once the Mayor’s period to veto any amendments has passed, the Budget as adopted by Council is final.
• Final budget published (December 2025): Mayor’s Budget Book published.
The Budget Committee members are: Charlie McDonald, Chair, Deputy Mayor, and Councillors Dan Joyce, Tracy Richardson and Pat Warren.
Budget Committee meetings are live streamed on YouTube and open to the public for viewing in Council Chambers. For a full schedule of Budget planning activities, visit the municipal budget page at kawarthalakes.ca/budget.
BURN BANS IN PLACE
The City of Kawartha Lakes and Municipality of Trent Lakes have both issued Burn Bans, effective immediately.
With record-setting heat and a prolonged lack of rainfall continuing across the region, Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service is reminding all residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution with any activity that could cause a fire.
Even the smallest spark can ignite a dangerous fire that threatens lives, destroys property, and devastates natural landscapes. “These are not typical summer conditions,” says Fire Chief Terry Jones. “People must take this seriously. The extreme heat and dry weather mean fires are igniting faster and spreading more aggressively than we’ve seen in recent years.”
The Fire Service is strongly urging the public to:
• Avoid burning altogether during this period of hot, dry weather.
• Never burn in windy conditions, regardless of burn permit status
• Follow all regulations under the Kawartha Lakes Open-Air Burning By-law.
• Properly dispose of smoking materials—never flick cigarette butts out car windows or onto the ground.
• Use caution with off-road vehicles and farm machinery—hot engines and exhaust systems can ignite dry grass and debris.
• Keep a water source or extinguisher nearby if conducting any outdoor work involving tools or heat.
• Fireworks handled by trained professionals are the safest way to enjoy fireworks.
“We’re seeing increased fire risks not just from open-air burning, but from equipment, smoking materials, and careless behavior,” says Fire Prevention Public Educator Katie Dukelow. “The risk is too high to take chances.”
Residents are reminded that violations of the Open-Air Burning By-law can result in fines or full cost recovery for emergency response.
CORONATION HALL RENOS
Coronation Hall, home of the Omemee Municipal Service Centre, will be undergoing significant repairs to the building envelope over the next few months. The repairs will restore and preserve the heritage features of this historically significant building. The project is expected to be completed by November.
Here’s what’s involved:
• Repairing and restoring masonry in various
locations
• Conserving stucco band and heritage signage
• Conserving and repairing window surrounds and brick work
• New canopies and repairing wood brackets
• Repairing and conserving wood cornices
• Repairing or replacing gutters and downspouts
• Removing rust and repainting metal stairs
Coronation Hall will remain open during construction for permitted facility rentals and Municipal Service Centre operations. However, the rear parking lot will be closed to the public for the duration of the project. As work progresses at the main entrance, the east side entrance may be used temporarily. Temporary signage will be in place to direct visitors when an alternate entrance is in use.
AUGUST ON THE TSW
Submitted by Karen Feeley
There’s something magical about standing on a lock wall in the early morning – mist rising off the water, and the first boat of the day drifting through. This August, we are ready to welcome more visitors than ever. With lively festivals, canal-side concerts and events, free lockage, and unforgettable overnight stays right at the water’s edge, this is the perfect time to discover the magic of the Trent-Severn Waterway.
Boating traffic is up across the canal system this season, with a 17 percent increase compared to last year. Lockstations are busy, visitors are using the canal in full force. As the season continues in the Kawarthas, momentum is only building.
Whether you’re paddling for the first time or cruising on a family boat trip, there’s no better time to try locking through. Through September 2, 2025, Parks Canada is offering free lockage on the TrentSevern Waterway as part of the Canada Strong Pass.
FAMILY, FRIENDS AND FAIRWAYS
Submitted by Kim Coulter
The family of the late Dr. Azhar Syed is organizing special event to honour a man who dedicated his life to helping others.
Dr. Syed was an Internal Medicine Specialist who practised in Lindsay and cared for patients in Ross Memorial’s Intensive Care Unit between 1988 and 2020. He passed away in April of 2020. Due to the pressures of the pandemic, it was impossible to gather family, friends and colleagues for a large memorial service.
Focusing on the people and places that made him the happiest, his family chose to celebrate his life with a memorial golf tournament at his favourite course and with his favourite people gathered together.
The tournament is set to take place on Sunday, September 14 at Oliver’s Nest Golf Course in Oakwood. Dr. Syed was a founding member at Oliver’s Nest, where he taught his children to play golf.
“He used to take us to Oliver’s Nest all the time growing up and was a die-hard Tiger Woods fan,” said Dr. Syed’s son, Imran. “He really emphasized the role
“At
of starting early in creating great golfers, and had me swinging a club at 4 years old.”
Imran and his family members look forward to seeing old friends in the community and golfing with Dr. Syed’s old friends once again.
Funds raised through the Dr. A. A. Syed Memorial Golf Tournament will support the future expansion and modernization of Ross Memorial’s ICU through the WE ARE THE ROSS capital campaign.
“We are touched to be helping Dr. Syed’s family to coordinate this fundraising golf tournament,” said Erin Coons, RMH Foundation CEO. “It’s nice to know that their efforts to gather friends, family and colleagues together will also benefit patients in the ICU, which was Dr. Syed’s life’s work.”
For more information about the tournament, contact Imran Syed at isyed@qmed.ca.
LIVE & LOCAL
The Grove Theatre is hosting a Live & Local Music Festival on Saturday, August 16 from 11am to 3pm.
The free community event features talented musicians from the Kawartha Lakes area, great food and family fun.
WALK FOR HEALTH
The community will come together on Sunday, August 10 in Kinmount for the 27th Annual Journey for Health organized by The Kinmount & District Health Centre.
Make a donation of $10 or more on the day of the event and you’ll be eligible for some great draw prizes.
The walk, jog or bike along the beautiful rail trail is only part of the fun. There’s a Lions Club Pancake Breakfast, a used book sale, balloon animals, face painting, health & wellness info booths and much more.
Funds raised will assist in their ongoing efforts to recruit additional health team members, make building upgrades, purchase medical equipment and offer educational outreach programs to the community.
The event takes place from 9am to 1pm at the Austin Sawmill Heritage Park. You can find out more at www.kdhc.ca.
STEVEN PAGE AT THE GROVE
You loved him as a member of The Barenaked Ladies and now you have a chance to see him perform again at The Grove Theatre in Fenelon Falls on Monday, August 18 at 7:30pm.
Over the last 35 years, Steven Page established
himself as one of the most recognizable and enduring voices in music. The release of his latest album, Excelsior, proves that he has no plans of slowing down anytime soon.
After leaving The Barenaked Ladies in 2009, Steven embarked on a solo career that has produced five solo albums, including 2022’s Excelsior. Now, he is touring the world The Steven Page Trio and has performances planned well into 2024.
Steven performs in many configurations, from solo performances to full-band shows with a horn section. However, since 2016, he has most often played with his pals in The Steven Page Trio -- Craig Northey of Vancouver legends Odds on guitar and Kevin Fox on cello. This trio configuration strikes the perfect balance of portability, intimacy, and power to fill just about any venue imaginable.
You can find out more and book your tickets at grovetheatre.ca.
VOLLEYBALL TRAINING CAMP
Once the kids head back to school, you may want to keep them active after their summer of nonstop outdoor fun. If volleyball is something they’re interested in, and want to learn some skills, the Buckhorn Community Centre’s Youth programmers have what they need.
With Coach Jim Higgs, they’re offering a Volleyball Training Camp that will teach some skills including overhand serving, spike/block and how to play an effective defence. During each session, participants will also get involved in competitive games.
The camp is open to children 10 to 14 years of age and runs for five weeks from September 9 to October 7. The cost is $60 per person and each participant will receive a ball.
To find out more, contact Meghan at 705-6578833 or seyp@buckhorncommunitycentre.com. Space is limited.
CAR SHOWS IN BLOOM
Who doesn’t love a good vintage car show? The Kawarthas is the perfect environment for showing off these beautiful vehicles.
VICTORIA MANOR
Gear up for a fantastic evening of classic cars and community spirit at the annual Victoria Manor Car Show at 220 Angeline Street South in Lindsay on September 4.
This family-friendly event features the vintage, classic and one-of-a-kind vehicles; family games and activities; raffle and door prizes; and a BBQ fundraiser for the Victoria Manor Residents’ Council.
This is a weather-dependent event. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, the event will have to cancel.ve to cancel. Stay up to date by following City of Kawartha Lakes on Facebook.
ASPIRA KAWARTHA LAKES RETIREMENT LIVING
On September 6 fro m9am to 3pm, head out to Bobcaygeon as Aspira Kawartha Lakes Retirement
Living at 60 West Street and the Back Alley Cruisers present their Second Annual Car Show.
Stroll through a stunning collection of classic cars, watch the City of Kawartha Lakes Station 3 volunteers perform an auto extrication demonstration, check out the vendors and indulge in delicious concession food. All registration money will be donated to The Bobcaygeon Helps Food Bank.
CONNECTION IS KEY AT ART FESTIVAL
Throughout history, art, music and culture have connected us with nature and each other. Visitors to the 48th annual Buckhorn Festival of the Arts August 16 and 17 will have the chance to experience that connection.
More than 70 world-renowned artists will be in attendance, offering the connection with a variety of mediums including paint, sculpture and photography. One of this year’s special features that will also connect people is The Conundrum.
The Conundrum, created by artist and filmmaker David Hynes, is a unique musical instrument – a combination 13-foot canoe and drum that has gained international attention. Drums are a symbol of connection and relationships in Indigenous culture. The Conundrum at the Buckhorn Festival of the Arts will be an interactive installation with local Indigenous drummer Janet McCue as the drum-keeper.
Festival Director, Meghan Arnott says, “We are thrilled to have The Conundrum at the Buckhorn Community Centre (BCC). This is a way to underscore our commitment to offer cultural experiences for visitors that they may not get elsewhere. The Buckhorn Festival of the Arts is a long-standing tradition for many people and we continue to evolve as the interests of our visitors change.”
The Buckhorn Festival of the Arts is one of the
province’s Top 100 Festivals & Events named by Festivals & Events Ontario. Meghan says, “We understand the connection that people have with art and culture. Visitors to the Festival will get to experience that connection through the stunning art, live music, the Art Activity Zone for kids, and, of course, by drumming with others at The Conundrum. In addition, there is another special exhibit, “Away,” featuring works from well-known artists.”
The original Conundrum is on display at the Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough. Creator David Hynes says, “The power of the Conundrum is its low frequency vibration that exudes an invisible energy when played. People meet other people when playing the instrument and form a connection that builds relationships and brings us all together.”
The Festival runs Saturday, August 16 from 10am to 5pm and Sunday, August 17 from 10am to 4pm. Admission is by donation. There is free and accessible
August 16 & 17, 2025
parking available with a shuttle bus service from the parking lot to the BCC.
The Buckhorn Community Centre is a not-forprofit organization supported by fundraising events throughout the year. For more information, visit www. buckhorncommunitycentre.com.
CRAFT BEER & FOOD
The Bobcaygeon Craft Beer and Food Festival takes place on Saturday, August 16 at Kawartha Settlers’ Village in Bobcaygeon.
From noon to 7pm, the event features craft beer, cider, food vendors and live entertainment in the barn and gazebo.
General admission is $25 (plus fees) while a Designated Driver Ticket is $15 (plus fees). This is an age-of-majority event.
Visit bobcaygeonbeerfestival.ca for more information.
FALL NATIVE PLANT SALE
From Facebook
Native plants are a beautiful and low-maintenance addition to your property. They provide diverse and colourful pollinator habitat and grow very well in our northern climate.
Kawartha Conservation is offering plant and tiny forest kits for sale. They are mixed to target different pollinators, protect against flooding and erosion through their intricate root systems, and provide property aesthetics through diverse seasonal bloom times and colours.
Garden kits include Pollinator Friendly, Waterfront Wonders, Shoreline Tiny Forest, Shady Oasis, and Spring Beauties.
Through the website, you can also check out free garden guides for garden design templates along with tips for planting and maintaining a successful garden.
Plants and forest kits are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Orders will be ready for pickup on September 12 in Lindsay.
Visit kawarthaconservation.com for more information or follow them on Facebook.
METEOR TIME
By Deb Crossen
With many cloudless nights recently, the night sky has been pretty awesome. We’ve seen northern lights, the space station travelling overhead, a lunar eclipse and meteor showers. Coming up overnight on August 12/13 is one of the season’s best meteor showers, The Perseids.
The Perseids show off the remnants of Comet 109/P Swift-Tuttle. The earth passes through the trail of material left over as the comet streaks on its orbit of the sun. Small particles of dust and rocks burn up through or atmosphere, creating meteors that cross the sky.
Even though we’ll have a waning gibbous moon, which might reduce visibility for the fainter meteors, it should be a good show. The Planetary Society is estimating 50 to 75 meteors per hour under dark skies, so head out somewhere away from lights or turn the
lights off at the cottage and sit on the deck. They’re named the Perseids because of the location from which the meteors appear to be coming – in this case the constellation Perseus. Perseus is located in our northern sky, near the constellation Casseopia, but the meteors can be seen from all directions. Just look up!
LEGACY FUND WILL HONOUR COMMUNITY LEADERS
The Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes is honoured to announce the establishment of the Linden Mackey Legacy Fund, created to celebrate and continue the extraordinary spirit of community
leadership embodied by Linden Mackey.
A beloved funeral director, devoted family man, and respected community leader, Linden Mackey touched countless lives with his kindness, humility, and unwavering dedication to serving others. The outpouring of love and respect following his sudden passing in May 2025 is a testament to the profound impact he had on the City of Kawartha Lakes and beyond.
The Linden Mackey Legacy Fund will recognize and celebrate individuals, community groups, and organizations who go above and beyond to make a positive impact in their communities. Through the annual Linden Lighthouse Legacy Award, the fund will shine a light on local leaders who demonstrate generosity, inclusion, and a spirit of neighbourliness, as well as support initiatives that promote mental health and overall community well-being.
Beginning in 2026, this special award will be featured as part of the Lindsay and District Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Awards Gala, one of the region’s most prestigious celebrations of business and community excellence. By including the Linden Lighthouse Legacy Award in this event, the community will come together each year to honour Linden’s memory and recognize those who carry forward his spirit of service and leadership.
“We are deeply humbled by the outpouring of support, compassion, and immeasurable kindness our family has received from the community since Linden’s
sudden passing,” said Stephanie Mackey, Linden’s wife. “This has been an overwhelmingly difficult time for us, but acts of generosity made in Linden’s memory offer strength and a sense of hope for the days ahead. We chose the lighthouse logo as a symbol of our wish to bring light to those silently suffering through dark times, and to express our gratitude for those who offer support when it’s needed most. Thank you.”
“The establishment of this fund is a beautiful way to honour Linden’s life and values,” says Mark Knoester, Chair of the Board of the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes. “Linden believed deeply in the power of community and in lifting others up. This fund ensures that his light will continue to guide and inspire future generations.”
Community members are invited to honour Linden’s legacy by contributing to the fund, supporting the next generation of local leaders who embody his kindness and dedication.
For more information please visit kawarthafoundation.ca.
MUSIC COUNCIL NOTES
Submitted by April Scott
So that was July and we managed to have five concerts at Lock 32. We battled through cool and windy weather along the blistering heat. All told, it was a good month which also included the Summer Music Camp at Settlers Village where 64 students attended to play a favourite instrument. Bev Tombler, the organizer of the Camp for several years is stepping down from this position but will be part of the faculty in future.
Our next main concert the first week of August we will be featuring Devin Cuddy who is Jim Cuddy’s son. You may remember that Jim Cuddy was our big concert in May.
These concerts would not be taking place if we didn’t have the great sponsors for each concert. Thank you. The Lions Club always bring its barbecue to serve up delicious food for all the hungry!
Stay tuned for more news next time.
AFFORDABLE HOME OWNERSHIP OPPORTUNITY
Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) has announced that spacious, bright, and energy-efficient 1 to 3 bedroom condominiums are now available in Peterborough’s sought-after East City. These award-winning developments feature modern layouts, universal design, and a central Peterborough location close to schools, shopping, transit, and parks, making them an ideal choice for first-time buyers and young families.
Through Habitat PKR’s Affordable Homeownership Program, qualified local households earning under $95,000 annually can purchase one of these condos with no down payment and an income-based, affordable mortgage.
“Many people don’t realize they can get a hand up onto the property ladder through our affordable homeownership program,” said Susan Zambonin, CEO of Habitat PKR. “Our homeowners are teachers, nurses, administrative assistants, early childhood educators, tradespeople and others who are essential to our community - but whose incomes often put traditional homeownership out of reach. Through Habitat, they gain the stability of owning a home, the
ability to build equity, and the chance to invest back into the community they serve. The impact goes far beyond one household; it strengthens our entire region and creates a ripple effect of stability and growth.”
These available units are made possible through Habitat PKR’s Affordable Housing BuyBack Program, which ensures Habitat for Humanity homes remain affordable long-term. When a Habitat homeowner chooses to move, perhaps to purchase a larger home on the traditional housing market as their family grows, or to pursue new life opportunities like education, Habitat PKR buys back the home at fair market value. The homeowner receives the equity they’ve built, enabling them to take that next step while their former Habitat home is renovated and re-sold to another qualifying local family.
This cycle not only helps families build stability and move forward but also ensures that Habitat homes continue to provide affordable housing for local households well into the future.
A recent Habitat for Humanity Canada study found that Habitat homeowners’ income grew by nearly 30 percent compared to if they had continued renting.
Local families and individuals can check eligibility, apply for these homes, and register for upcoming in-person or virtual info sessions at habitatpkr.ca/ homeownership – with sessions on August 21, September 10 and September 27.
