Peterborough County/City Paramedics to Implement New 9-1-1 System

Paramedic services throughout Southeastern Ontario, including Peterborough County/City Paramedics, are introducing a new system for 9-1-1 emergency calls that will take effect on March 26, announced on Wednesday.

Photo by David Tuan bui.

The new system is part of the Government of Ontario’s Your Health Plan. It will require 9-1-1 callers to answer more detailed questions regarding the patient's condition.

Patients with less urgent or non-life-threatening conditions may experience longer wait times during periods with higher call volumes. For less urgent cases, patients will remain under observation through ongoing communication with ambulance communication officers to ensure no change in the patient's condition.

According to Peterborough County, the Medical Priority Dispatch System (MPDS) will match paramedics with specialized skills and equipment to each case, ensuring that non-urgent demand in emergency departments is reduced.

The County says that the data from regions already using MPDS has shown notable improvements in key operational challenges, including reduced offload delays at hospitals, better management of meal claims for staff and decreased end-of-shift overtime.

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Peterborough County Expanding the ‘The Local Advantage to Cavan Monaghan Township to Bring Funding Opportunities

Peterborough County is expanding the ‘The Local Advantage – With Peterborough County’ event series to bring funding opportunities to one-on-one business consultations in Cavan Monaghan Township.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough County.

The second in-person session is on Feb. 12 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Cavan Monaghan Community Centre Meeting Room, 986 County Road 10, Millbrook.

According to Peterborough County, it will connect with Peterborough County’s Economic Development and Tourism teams, Cavan Monaghan’s Economic Development team and Community Futures Peterborough to help business owners access the insights, support and partnerships for growth.

“Peterborough County is excited to continue the success of our Local Advantage series in the vibrant Township of Cavan Monaghan. In this community, entrepreneurship thrives due to strong local networks, convenient access to larger markets, and a growing population eager to support and benefit from new local businesses,” said Boonie Clark, Peterborough County Warden. “Our Peterborough County Economic Development team is dedicated to connecting business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge, connections, and resources they need to succeed. We look forward to expanding this monthly Local Advantage series and offering additional business services through our Hub and Spoke model across Peterborough County.”

“As our local community continues to grow and the economy changes, it is imperative that our business community have the resources they need to respond to the changing environment,'“ said Matthew Graham, Cavan Monaghan Mayor.

The series in Cavan Monaghan township will continue every second Wednesday of the month at the Cavan Monaghan Community Centre Meeting Room, 986 County Road 10, Millbrook. No registration is required.

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Peterborough County Hosting First Municipal Job Fair For Students On Feb. 13

Peterborough County is hosting its first-ever municipal job fair for post-secondary students from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Healthy Planet Arena on Feb. 13.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough County.

“For post-secondary students seeking meaningful and impactful careers, municipal government offers a diverse range of exciting opportunities,” said Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County Warden. “I encourage you to attend our upcoming job fair to explore the wide range of available summer student positions. By working for a municipality, students will discover fulfilling career paths after graduation and contribute their skills and talents to building strong and vibrant communities.”

The job fair brings together representatives from four local municipalities, such as Peterborough County, the City of Peterborough, Selwyn Township and the Municipality of Trent Lakes, to showcase municipal work's opportunities.

Students have an opportunity to speak directly with hiring managers about various summer positions and learn why municipal work is a valuable and fulfilling career choice.

This event offers attendees:

• Information on available summer job opportunities.

• Insight into the benefits of municipal employment, such as skill- building, resume development, and contributing to the community.

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Peterborough County Warden Acclaimed as Chair of the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus

Peterborough County Warden Bonnie Clark has been acclaimed as Chair of the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC) at its annual inaugural meeting in Kingston on Thursday and Friday.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough County.

Since 2023, Clark has served as Vice-Chair of the EOWC, prior to the new role.

The EOWC is a non-profit organization that advocates for 103 small urban and rural municipalities across eastern Ontario. Spanning 50,000 s/hm and serving 800,000 residents, the EOWC has championed regional priorities with a unified voice for over 20 years. They work closely with governments, businesses, non-profits, Indigenous leaders, media, and the public to advance key initiatives that strengthen communities across the region.

As Chair of the EOWC, Clark will advocate for issues affecting Peterborough County.

"It is an honour to lead as Chair of the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC) for 2025,” said Bonnie Clark. “It is a critical time for our country, province, and region to step up, and the EOWC remains ready to work and ready to grow. I look forward to working with my caucus colleagues in the year ahead to advance priorities of infrastructure, housing and health care on behalf of our 103 municipalities and residents across Eastern Ontario.”

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Selwyn Mayor Officially Sworn In As Deputy Warden

Selwyn Township Mayor Sherry Senis was officially sworn in as Deputy Warden for a two-year term following her selection by Warden Bonnie Clark after Wednesday’s County Council meeting.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough County.

This is Senis’s second term as Deputy Warden. She has been involved in municipal government since 2006 and has served on County Council since 2014.

“It has been an honour and privilege to serve Peterborough County as Deputy Warden since 2022,” said Senis. “I want to thank Warden Clark for her continued confidence and support in my continuing to serve as Deputy Warden for the next two years. I am passionate about Peterborough County and I look forward to continuing my work together with County Council, staff, townships, businesses, and residents to deal with local challenges and taking opportunities for the benefit of our community.”

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Peterborough County Approves 2025 Budget

Peterborough County Council has approved the 2025 Budget during Monday’s Council meeting.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The approved budget includes a 6.28 per cent tax rate increase (8.4 per cent tax levy increase) which reflects the County’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure and reducing dependency on reserve funding according to a press release.

Key highlights of the budget include:

• Dedicated Infrastructure Levy: A 2.5 per cent allocation specifically for infrastructure needs.

• Operational Sustainability: Elimination of reliance on reserved funding to support ongoing operations.

• Tax Rate Adjustment: A tax rate increase of 6.28 per cent, amounting to approximately $66.00 for the average assessed household.

“Peterborough County Council is tasked with balancing the need to invest in our communities with the rising cost of living for our ratepayers,” said Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County Warden. “This budget enables continued investment in services to meet the needs of our residents and townships, provides for much-needed maintenance on key infrastructure, while eliminating the draw on reserves for operating needs. The work does not end here. County Council, the Finance Committee, and staff will continue to find efficiencies and opportunities throughout the organization in the months ahead.”

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Peterborough County Senior Director Announces Retirement After 36-Year Tenure

Peterborough County’s Bryan Weir, senior director, is calling it a career after 36 years and will retire in late November, announced Monday evening.

LinkedIn Picture.

“I have had the privilege to work with Bryan for over 20 years. Without hesitation, I can say he is the classiest, most humble, kind, and thoughtful person I have ever worked with,” said Sheridan Graham, County CAO. “He has worn many hats over the years, serving as EMS Chief, head of Economic Development, Planning, GIS and most recently, Public Works. In all his roles, Bryan has led his teams with his heart.”

According to Graham, Weir is known for his unwavering staff support and has been entrusted with numerous leadership roles due to his exceptional ability to inspire and guide.

“Staff trust him, respect him, and genuinely like him. His leadership has fostered a supportive and cohesive environment,” she said. “While we are all sad to see him retire, we are grateful for the strong foundation he has built. He has grown, trained and nurtured staff to ensure a smooth transition, demonstrating true leadership.”

Iain Mudd was appointed the new Director of Planning, Development and Public Works, effective on Sept. 6.

“I really can’t believe how fortunate I am to have been, first, hired by the County, and second, able to enjoy such a fulfilling and rewarding career,” said Weir. “I find it hard to describe the feeling of being able to come to work each day and know that my day will be good no matter what happens and it’s entirely due to the extraordinary people and support I have experienced both at the staff level and Council level. I would like to thank the County for its faith and trust when considering my involvement.”

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Peterborough County Takes a Stand Against Aggressive Behavior Towards Construction Workers

As the 2024 construction season approaches its end, Peterborough County is committed to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all construction workers announced on Thursday.

File Photo.

The County reminds motorists, residents, and visitors that any form of aggressive behavior—including yelling, insults, threats, intimidation, or physical abuse—directed at County staff or contractors will not be tolerated.

“As the CAO for Peterborough County, any violence or harassment of our workers or our contractors will not be tolerated”, said Sheridan Graham, Peterborough County CAO. “Our staff are professionals, who are proud of the work they do in their communities. Construction and delays can be stressful, we understand that, but they are a necessary part of maintaining our critical infrastructure. Our communications department does an amazing job of updating on projects and delays, and we also use Municipal 511 services – please follow us on these channels to get more information and to plan your travel.”

“Harassment of Construction Workers is becoming a serious problem. It stems from impatience, self-importance, and putting the safety and well-being of our vital construction crews second to experiencing a minor disruption in travel,” said Bryan Weir, Peterborough County senior director of planning and public works. “Without the important work that is done, there would be no infrastructure to travel upon, no clean water or sanitary conditions, no sidewalks, and unbearable ongoing inconveniences to daily living. Respecting a workplace is a right that everyone is entitled to.”

Construction workers play a vital role in our community by contributing to essential infrastructure and development projects that benefit everyone as stated by the County. They continue to state that workes frequently encounter unwarranted hostility while on the job. This aggressive behaviour disrupts their work, can lead to significant delays in project completion, and, if warranted, may require police involvement.

”As Acting Staff Sergeant of the Peterborough County OPP, I want to make it clear: we have zero tolerance for any threats or violence against construction workers at road closures,” said Angie Kerr, OPP acting staff sergeant. '“These closures are necessary to maintain our community’s infrastructure. While we understand the frustration, we will not tolerate aggression toward workers. In past incidents, workers have faced hostility from motorists, and anyone engaging in such behavior could face charges like Uttering Threats, Assault, or Mischief, with penalties under the Criminal Code of Canada ranging from fines to imprisonment. Protecting our workers and the public is our priority.”

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Peterborough County Launches Second 'Share the Road Campaign' For Awareness of Slow-Moving Vehicles and Farm Equipment On Roads

Peterborough County has launched the second annual Share the Road campaign to spread awareness for slow-moving vehicles and farm equipment on its roads.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough County.

This campaign is promoted during harvest season which begins in October and can last into December. It is in partnership with the Peterborough Federation of Agriculture and the Ontario Provincial Police – Peterborough County Detachment,

There will be heightened awareness by the Peterborough County OPP in farming areas across Peterborough County during the campaign which will run until the end of October.

“As the leaves change colour and the weather gets colder, you will start to see more farm vehicles on our roads across Peterborough County. As farmers prepare for their harvest, please be mindful of oversized and slow-moving vehicles on our roads,” said Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County warden. “Agriculture continues to be the lifeblood of Peterborough County and we want to ensure a safe and productive harvest for our farming community this year.”

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture and the OPP want motorists to be aware of the following:

1. Harvest season begins in October and lasts into December – Farm and slow-moving vehicles will be on the roadways.

2. Don’t expect the vehicle to pull over on the shoulder – as this could be dangerous for a large piece of equipment.

3. Make sure the path is clear and the driver of the slow-moving vehicle sees you before you pass.

4. Impatient drivers who attempt to pass in an unsafe manner risk causing serious accidents and/or hefty penalties – the fine for Careless Driving is $490 and 6 demerit points.

5. Do not drive in the blind spots of the slow-moving vehicle and keep far enough back for the driver to see you.

“The OPP would like to remind motorists that harvest season is in full swing once again. During this time of year, you may encounter slow-moving farm vehicles on the road more frequently,” said Angie Kerr, OPP acting staff sergeant. “Both motorists and farm equipment operators share the responsibility for road safety, and we urge everyone to exercise patience and caution during these encounters. Please be alert, give farm vehicles plenty of space, and pass only when it is truly safe to do so.”

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Peterborough County Announces Appointments to its Leadership Team

Peterborough County has added Rhonda Keenan as the new General Manager of Economic Development and Sarah Budd as the new Manager of Community Development.

peterborough county logo

The County announced the appointments in a media release Friday morning stating Keenan and Budd will join Tracie Bertrand, General Manager of Tourism and Communications, to “form a trifecta of excellence” driving the county’s future economic growth, community development and tourism.

“These faces will be familiar to those in our business community and bring continuity and years of local knowledge and expertise to their roles, said warden Bonnie Clark. “Together, this team will work collaboratively with our townships, First Nations, and the City to ensure that our County businesses are supported - whether through retention, expansion, or bringing new enterprises to our area.”

Keenan, Budd and Bertrand will be based in the new Lakefield economic and tourism office.

“As the CAO for Peterborough County, I couldn’t be more excited about the exceptional team of professionals we’ve engaged to support economic development and tourism in the County, townships, and First Nations,” said CAO Sheridan Graham. “I am thrilled for our businesses, residents, and visitors as we move The Kawarthas forward.”

Keenan is the outgoing President and CEO of Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development (PKED) which is disbanding later this year as the city and county bring economic development and tourism in house.

“I am thrilled to be joining the Peterborough County team. The County has an excellent corporate culture, is poised for growth, and offers the ideal mix of opportunity and lifestyle – the perfect combination for any economic developer,” stated Keenan. “I am excited to get to work with this amazing team and continue to help support sustainable economic growth across Peterborough County.”

"On behalf of the Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development (PKED) Board of Directors and our staff and stakeholders, I am very pleased that Rhonda will continue to serve the region and help drive economic development forward in this new role," stated Burton Lee, PKED board chair.

The board of the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce announced the resignation of Budd as president and CEO on Thursday.

"Although I love my position as President and CEO of the Peterborough & Kawartha Chamber of Commerce, I could not pass up the opportunity to join Peterborough County's new economic development division and to learn and work with the highly respected and successful Rhonda Keenan," Budd said.

"I am truly thrilled to be part of such a dedicated and forward-thinking team and excited to work with Rhonda and Sarah,” added Bertrand. “I look forward to continuing our collaboration to drive positive change and growth in the region.”

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