📢 Trent Lakes Council Digest: Firehalls, STR Rules, Official Plans & Waterfront Planning! 🏡🔥

Welcome back, neighbours! As your local real estate guide, I’m bringing you a deep dive into what is happening behind closed doors at Trent Lakes Municipal Council. Council met on September 1, 2026 for their regular session, and the agenda for September 15, 2026 brings big updates to our community infrastructure, shoreline rules, and municipal planning framewor

Our goal is simple: To keep you informed and protect your property interests in the Kawarthas! 🛡️

🏛️ Big News & Controversy: Repealing the Trent Lakes Official Plan? 📜❓

What’s Happening: Building and Planning staff, led by Planner Adele Arbour, are presenting a pivotal report on repealing the Trent Lakes Official Plan. Under By-law B2026-073, the County of Peterborough’s Official Plan would take over to function as the single, overarching Official Plan for the Municipality of Trent Lakes.

Why It Matters to Locals: This is a massive administrative shift! An Official Plan sets the entire vision for land development, environmental protection, and growth in our municipality. Transitioning entirely to the County’s Official Plan aims to streamline planning processes, but residents will want to watch closely to ensure local rural and waterfront planning nuances are fully protected under County oversight.

🏡 Real Estate Impact: Streamlining planning policies at the County level can reduce processing delays for severance, rezoning, and shoreline developments! However, land buyers and sellers must stay vigilant about how local zoning policies align with the County-level Official Plan.

🚨 Short-Term Rental (STR) Licensing Progress 🏡🔑

What’s Happening: Director of Building and Planning Eric Guay is delivering a progress update on Short-Term Rental Accommodation Registration.

Why It Matters to Locals: Short-Term Rentals (STRs) remain one of the most talked-about topics across waterfront communities! Registration protocols ensure neighborhood safety, noise regulation, septic capacity checks, and fair play for property owners who rent out their cottages.

🏡 Real Estate Impact: Clear STR registration rules protect neighborhood peace while providing property buyers certainty on rental income rules! Properties with fully compliant and registered STRs hold strong appeal for recreational buyers seeking secondary revenue streams.

🏗️ Buckhorn Firehall & Public Works Depot Update 🚒🚜

What’s Happening: Public Works Director Evan Grieger and Fire Chief Steve Brockbank presented Update 5 on the new Buckhorn Firehall and Public Works Depot at 8 Melody Bay Road.

• Budget Breakdown: The overall project budget stands at $9.61 Million. Spending to date sits at $4.47 Million, leaving over $5.13 Million remaining in the budget.

• Construction Progress: Construction started in October 2025 and is on schedule to wrap up in Fall 2026, right in time for the 2026–2027 winter season! Recent work includes drywalling, insulation, septic installation, HVAC, electrical, and concrete floor pours in the garage bays.

Why It Matters to Locals: This flagship facility enhances local emergency response times, emergency equipment storage, and winter road maintenance capabilities for Buckhorn and surrounding lake communities.

🏡 Real Estate Impact: Proximity to a brand-new, modern fire station improves emergency coverage and can positively impact homeowners insurance rates for nearby properties! Plus, better public works depots mean quicker snowplowing on critical rural routes during winter months! ❄️

🌲 Environmental & Waterfront Lifestyle Focus 🪵🌊

The Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) met on August 13, 2026, bringing key updates to preserve our local lakes and forests:

• Catchacoma Forest Protection: EAC Chair Ted Spence reported meeting with the Minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks regarding the protection of the Catchacoma Forest. While the MECP supports protection, discussions continue with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) to shift the forest from general use to official protected status.

• Styrofoam Disposal Events: Council was requested to investigate styrofoam disposal alternatives from old floating docks in partnership with the Cavendish Community Ratepayers Association.

• DarkSky Initiatives: The committee approved $452 to host DarkSky film screenings at the local library to raise awareness on light pollution.

🌲 Local Perspective: Preserving old-growth forests and removing degrading foam docks directly protects water quality on our beloved chain of lakes, keeping property values robust and nature pristine! 🦆🌲

📝 Planning Approvals & Waterfront Variances 🏡

Several property-specific planning applications moved forward across recent meetings:

• Zoning Amendment File 26-14 (Allen): Public meeting and by-law consideration for a vacant lot on Kawartha Hideaway Road.

• 79 Fire Route 380, Crystal Lake (Verway): Committee of Adjustment approved Minor Variance A-26-23 for building expansion/replacement with interior side yard adjustments.

• 162 Fire Route 36, Upper Buckhorn Lake (Barlow): Approved Minor Variance A-26-24 for a replacement dwelling, with a condition that the structure be set back as close to the Class 4 septic system as possible to optimize water yard setbacks.

• Road Allowance Transfer (Torrie): Council approved the closure and sale of an unopened road allowance (Part 1, Plan 45R15979) for $5,500 + HST under By-law B2026-067.

🔄 Summary of Decisions From the September 1, 2026 Minutes 📄

Here is a quick recap of the official decisions passed by Council during their September 1 meeting:

• Highway 28 Safety: Council voted to support the Township of North Kawartha’s call for a comprehensive Highway 28 Performance Review and request for further action.

• Financial Management: Approved adding Kristy Embleton as Director of Finance/Treasurer as signing authority with RBC.

• Environmental Registry: Supported Peterborough County's submission regarding ERO Posting 026-0740.

• Compliance Audit Committee: Officially enacted By-law B2026-066 to establish the committee and appointed eight roster members.

🏷️ Property Impact Summary

Local planning updates, new municipal infrastructure, and shoreline stewardship directly influence your property's value, usable land area, and rental potential. Staying informed ensures you protect your investment for years to come! 📈

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

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

📞 705-927-6236 👤 Brad Sinclair | Realtor® Re/Max Professionals North 📍 Might as well have the BEST to accomplish your goals.

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

🚨 Urgent Weekend Mortgage Update: 5-Year Bond Yields Spike Past 3.70% 📈🏡

I’m reaching out with a quick, time-sensitive update on the mortgage market before the weekend kicks off ⏱️.

Over the past 48 hours, Canadian 5-year benchmark bond yields pushed past 3.70%—hitting their highest levels of the month 📊. Because fixed mortgage rates track bond yields directly, lender capital desks are operating with zero margin buffer. Monoline and bank channels are warning of an impending 10 to 15 bps upward rate sheet revision as early as Monday morning ⚠️.

🎯 What This Means for You

• 🔒 Rate Protection: If you are actively shopping for a home or facing a mortgage renewal in the next few months, locking in a 120-day rate hold today freezes current sub-4.00% and low-4% fixed rate tiers.

• 🛡️ Zero Cost & No Obligation: A rate hold costs nothing and secures your maximum purchasing power. If market rates happen to decrease down the road, you still get the lower rate; if they rise, your rate is protected.

• 🤝 Local Buyer Advantage: In our Peterborough market, inventory remains balanced (~33 average days on market), meaning sellers are accepting conditional offers. Pairing a locked-in rate hold with a conditional offer lets you negotiate confidently without risking your budget.

If you don't have an active 120-day rate hold in place—or want to double-check the expiry date on an existing pre-approval—let's connect today before rate sheets update over the weekend 📲.

📊 Daily Mortgage & Housing Market Briefing

🇨🇦 Bank of Canada & Bond Yields

• 5-Year Bond Yield Pressure (~3.68%–3.72%): Following yesterday’s sharp upward push, Canada 5-year benchmark bond yields continue to trade at their monthly highs between 3.68% and 3.72%. Yields are now up nearly 45 bps from their late-August floors (~3.25%).

• BoC Policy Realignment: The Bank of Canada’s September 2 decision to maintain the policy rate at 2.25% (prime rate at 4.45%) is being heavily reinforced by recent market data. With core inflation holding near 2.3% and stubborn global energy prices, major bank trading desks have eliminated late-2026 rate-cut projections. Money markets are actively pricing in elevated fixed capital costs through Q4.

💳 Major Lender Rate Sheet Summary

Term / Option	High-Ratio (Insured)	Conventional (Uninsured)	Market Trend
3-Year Fixed	3.99% – 4.14%	4.39% – 4.64%	Sub-3.90% promotional pricing fully pulled; upper limits moving up ⬆️
5-Year Fixed	4.19% – 4.29%	4.49% – 4.74%	Yield spike forcing 10–15 bps rate hikes across bank & monoline sheets 📈
5-Year Variable	3.30% – 3.35% (Prime - 1.10% to 1.15%)	3.65% – 3.85%	Holds steady; currently offers the widest entry rate discount 📉

🚨 Broker Channel Alert: Monoline lenders and broker-exclusive desks have begun rolling out 10 to 15 bps rate sheet increases heading into the weekend. Discretionary buydown budgets are completely exhausted under 3.70%+ bond yields. Lenders urge brokers to lock in active pre-approvals immediately to preserve existing rate tiers before Monday morning updates.

📍 Peterborough & Kawarthas Regional Pulse

• 💰 Price Benchmarks: In-city Peterborough median sold prices hold steady at $560,000 (average $573,919), while Peterborough County overall (capturing rural residential and waterfront inventory) averages $708,800.

• 📦 Inventory & Absorption: Active inventory across the region sits balanced at ~329 to 385 active listings with average time on market holding steady at 33 days.

• 🏁 Friday Buyer Footing: Rate volatility makes pre-approval security paramount for buyers this weekend. However, balanced regional inventory (~33 DOM) keeps buyer leverage intact. Detached homes continue closing a median $14,000 to $20,000 below original list price, allowing buyers to maintain conditional protections.

💡 Key Client Takeaways & Next Steps

1. Immediate Rate Lock Action: Counsel active buyers shopping this weekend and clients facing fall/winter renewals to lock in a 120-day rate hold today. Protecting pre-approvals under 4.00% or low-4% fixed tiers avoids forced re-qualification under higher October rate sheets.

2. Conditional Bidding Strategy: Emphasize to buyers that despite rising bond yields, local Peterborough supply (~33 DOM) ensures sellers are accepting conditional offers. Buyers do not need to waive essential financing, appraisal, or home inspection clauses to win deals.

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

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

📞 705-927-6236

👤 Brad Sinclair | Realtor® RE/MAX Professionals North

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

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

Brad Sinclair, your Kawartha and Highlands Realtor®

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

🌐 brad-sinclair.remax.ca

Just the Front Page-September 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

🏒 Local Sports

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

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

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

📢 Notices & Public Announcements

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

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

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

🌐 National & International News Briefs

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

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

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

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

📞 705-927-6236

👤 Brad Sinclair | Realtor® Re/Max Professionals North

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

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

🏛️ Bancroft Municipal Council Breakdown: Essential Community Updates & Real Estate Impacts! 🌲✨

Overview: What You Need to Know from the September 22, 2026 Special Council Meeting 📄

The Town of Bancroft Council met on September 22, 2026. Because this update is based strictly on the official meeting agenda and staff reports, we are looking at the draft resolutions, recommendations, and formal letters presented to Council. Under municipal rules, recommendations remain subject to Council's final vote, but they clearly lay out the town's current direction!

Here is the deep-dive breakdown of every item on the table and how it touches your daily life, your taxes, and your property values in our beautiful cottage country. 🏡👇

💥 The Big News & Controversies: What Every Resident Needs to Know

📚 1. North Hastings Public Library Request for $35,000 Emergency Funding Denied in Staff Recommendation

• The Background: The North Hastings Public Library (NHPL) Board submitted an emergency request for $35,000 in operating funding for 2026 after Faraday Township unexpectedly withdrew its funding contribution.

• The Staff Recommendation: Town staff recommended that Council DENY the $35,000 request.

• Why Staff Recommends Denial: Staff reports reveal that the library holds approximately $128,478 in unallocated reserve funds. Staff recommends the board draw from its own reserves to cover the 2026 operating gap while building a sustainable 2027 strategy.

• Proposed Changes by the Library Board:

  • Name Change: Discontinuing "North Hastings Public Library" and returning to Bancroft Public Library.

  • Higher Non-Resident Fees: Non-resident memberships would jump from $35/year to $50/year for individuals and $90/year for families.

  • Program Cost Recovery: Aiming for a 70% cost-recovery target through participant fees, grants, and fundraising.

  • Shared Space Offer: Making a $12^{\prime }\times 15^{\prime }$ room in the new library space available for Town use for two years.

🚓 2. Pushing Back on Escalating OPP Policing Costs

• The Controversy: Operating policing costs are becoming the single largest uncontrollable pressure on Bancroft's annual budget. In 2026, policing cost Bancroft $1,609,020 (representing 21.5% of the total tax levy).

• The 2027 Threat: Under provincial caps (capped at an 11% max increase), Bancroft's 2027 OPP bill could jump by $176,992 to a total of $1,786,012.

• Why It Matters to Locals: That single 11% policing increase equals a 2.37% tax increase on its own before any other municipal service, road repair, or capital expense is considered! Combined across 2026 and 2027, policing costs are skyrocketing by 23%.

• Council's Action: Bancroft sent a formal letter to the Office of the Solicitor General demanding provincial funding relief and a review of the unfair municipal cost-sharing model that burdens regional hub towns.

🏠 Real Estate Impact: Sharp spikes in municipal policing bills force higher overall property taxes, directly impacting property ownership costs for both permanent residents and seasonal cottage owners.

📈 3. Demanding an End to Ontario's Property Assessment Freeze ("Unfreeze Ontario")

• The Issue: Property values across Ontario have shifted dramatically, yet property assessments through MPAC have remained frozen for years.

• Why It Matters: Without regular reassessments, property tax distribution becomes unequal and unfair across different property classes and neighbourhoods.

• The Call to Action: Council is formally petitioning Premier Doug Ford and the Minister of Finance to commit to a province-wide property reassessment in 2027 and establish a regular cycle moving forward.

🏠 Real Estate Impact: A full reassessment will re-align assessed property values with market realities. While market adjustments shift tax burdens, an accurate assessment roll brings fairness and clarity to rural and waterfront property buyers.

🛠️ Deep Dive into Operational & Community Updates

🏗️ 1. Dormant Building Permits & Policy #01-2026 (By-Law 59-2026)

• The Details: Council considered adopting a standard operating policy and By-Law 59-2026 regarding open, inactive building permits and the 15-year Ultimate Limitation Period under the Limitations Act, 2002.

• How It Works:

  • 0 to 5 Years Inactive: Proactive follow-ups; permits inactive over 12 months face potential revocation.

  • 5 to 15 Years Inactive: No proactive municipal enforcement; inspectors respond upon request and may require finishes to be uncovered or professional engineering reports provided.

  • 15+ Years Inactive: Considered fully dormant under the 15-year limitation period; the town will not conduct inspections or enforcement.

🏠 Real Estate Impact: HUGE for buyers and sellers! Unclosed building permits from years past can stall property closings. This policy provides clear rules on how historic permits are treated, giving buyers and sellers a predictable pathway to resolve open permit issues during real estate transactions.

🌊 2. Bancroft Dam Rehabilitation Project Update

• The Details: Progress is moving forward on the Bancroft Water Control Structure Dam.

• Contract Awarded: Following an RFQ process, the contract for the Environmental Study Report (ESR) was awarded to RiverStone Environmental Solutions Inc. for $31,000.

• Timeline: Field investigations are set for November 2026, with the final report due by year-end.

• Funding: The study is 100% covered under the Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program Grant!

🏠 Real Estate Impact: Maintaining dam infrastructure protects downtown water levels, safeguards surrounding riverfront properties, and supports downtown development potential.

🔒 3. MFIPPA Privacy Law Changes & Mandatory Privacy Impact Assessments

• The Details: Following provincial Bill 97 amendments, major changes to the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act are taking effect.

• Key Changes: FOI response times expanded from 30 to 45 days (as of July 1, 2026). Starting January 1, 2027, mandatory written Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs) will be required before collecting personal information.

• Staffing Impact: Staff highlighted that compliance will require dedicated administrative resources and potential IT upgrades.

🏠 Real Estate Impact: Ensures strict confidentiality standards and secure handling of personal data when residents submit municipal applications, site plan approvals, or building permits.

🛒 4. Annual Fall Food Drive Challenge: "Weight of a Moose!"

• The Initiative: Partnering with Go with Crowe Real Estate, the Town, North Hastings Public Library, and LEAF Centre are collecting non-perishable food items for the North Hastings Community Cupboard through September 29.

• The Goal: The Town set a fun challenge to collect the equivalent weight of a moose in food items to support local families in need. Drop-off bins are located at the Municipal Office, Library, and LEAF Centre.

🏠 Real Estate Impact: Vibrant, caring communities build strong neighbourhoods. Community-led initiatives showcase the spirit that makes living in Bancroft and the Kawarthas so rewarding.

🎄 5. 2026 Santa Claus Parade Route Approved

• Event Date: Saturday, December 5, 2026, organized by the Bancroft Lions Club.

• Parade Details: Departs at 2:30 PM from 60 Monck Street, travelling along Sherbourne St, Bridge St, and Hastings St North, ending at Riverside Park at 3:30 PM. Downtown parking will be temporarily blocked along the route.

💼 6. Provincial Updates & Council Remuneration (By-Law 58-2026)

• Municipal Accountability Act, 2026: Proposed regulations will create standardized codes of conduct and integrity commissioner processes starting November 15, 2026.

• Buy Ontario Procurement Directive: Municipalities are urged to prioritize Ontario and Canadian suppliers in purchasing.

• Council Remuneration (By-Law 58-2026): Council formally enacted 2026 remuneration rates (Mayor: $41,619.56; Deputy Mayor: $27,381.22; Councillor: $22,343.11) along with CRA-rate mileage reimbursements.

📢 Summary & Call to Action

Local municipal decisions directly shape our community's future, property values, and living costs. From building permit policies to property assessments and policing taxes, staying informed is your best protection as a homeowner or prospective buyer!

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

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

📞 705-927-6236

👤 Brad Sinclair | Realtor® Re/Max Professionals North

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

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

Daily Mortgage & Housing Market Briefing - September 24, 2026

Staying informed on mortgage rates and regional market trends is the key to making smart real estate moves. Here is your quick update on where things stand today across Canada and right here in Peterborough & the Kawarthas! 📊💡

🏛️ Bank of Canada & Bond Yield Update

• 📈 5-Year Bond Yield Spike (~3.69%): Government of Canada 5-year benchmark bond yields surged higher yesterday, jumping up to 3.69% (an increase of ~14 bps from earlier consolidation around 3.55%). Yields are testing their highest levels of the month, driven by global fixed-income volatility and shifting expectations around central bank policy.

• 🎯 Policy Rate & Potential Hikes: Following the September 2nd rate hold at 2.25% (prime rate at 4.45%), consensus across money markets has shifted. Rather than expecting rate cuts, markets are now pricing in a 50/50 probability of a 0.25% rate hike before year-end as the Bank of Canada manages 2.3% core inflation.

📑 Current Lender Rate Sheet Breakdown

Term / Option	High-Ratio (Insured)	Conventional (Uninsured)	Market Trend
3-Year Fixed	3.99% – 4.09%	4.34% – 4.59%	Discretionary buydowns under acute pressure following the 3.69% yield jump.
5-Year Fixed	4.14% – 4.24%	4.44% – 4.69%	Upward pressure mounting; lenders tightening promotional margins.
5-Year Variable	3.30% – 3.35% (Prime - 1.10% to 1.15%)	3.65% – 3.85%	Holding steady; currently offers the widest spread against fixed options.

🚨 Broker Channel Alert: Monoline lenders enter today with zero remaining margin buffer following the spike in bond yields. Current 3-year fixed rate sheets (3.99%–4.09%) face immediate risk of another 10 to 15 bps upward adjustmentbefore the weekend if yields stay near 3.70%.

🌲 Peterborough & Kawarthas Regional Pulse

• 🏷️ Price Benchmarks: In-city Peterborough median sold prices remain steady at $560,000, while Peterborough County overall (capturing rural residential and waterfront properties) averages $708,800.

• 📦 Inventory & Absorption: Active inventory across the region sits at a balanced ~329 to 385 active listings, with average time on market holding around 33 days.

• 🤝 Negotiation Power: With 5-year bond yields rising, rate certainty is crucial for buyers. Balanced regional supply (~33 DOM) gives buyers the room to structure offers with price negotiation (median $14,000 to $20,000 below original list price) and essential conditional protections fully intact.

🎯 Key Takeaways & Buyer/Seller Advice

1. 🔒 Urgent Rate Lock Window: If you are actively house hunting or have a fall/winter mortgage renewal coming up, lock in a 120-day rate hold immediately today. Securing existing sub-4.00% or low-4% rate approvals protects your buying power against impending lender rate hikes.

2. 📝 Protect Your Offers: Slower sales velocity (~33 DOM) means buyers do not need to drop standard protection clauses. Keep financing, appraisal, and home inspection conditions in your offers when buying in Peterborough or the Kawarthas.

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

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

📞 705-927-6236

👤 Brad Sinclair | Realtor® Re/Max Professionals North

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

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

Just the Front Page-September 24th, 2026

💧 Trent University Evacuated Following Major Watermain Break

A critical main waterline break near Blackburn Hall on Tuesday morning severed primary water service to Trent University’s Symons Campus. The outage forced the immediate evacuation of over 1,100 residence students and led to the cancellation of all in-person classes, athletic programs, and campus operations—impacting roughly 12,000 students and staff. Emergency repair crews are sourcing parts to restore service, with the campus set to reopen and resume normal operations on Monday. 🏫

🏥 Dr. Lynn Mikula Reflects as She Departs PRHC Leadership

Dr. Lynn Mikula marked her final day as President and CEO of Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) before stepping into her new leadership role as CEO of Sinai Health in Toronto this October. Having served PRHC for 15 years as a surgeon, chief of staff, pandemic executive lead, and CEO, Mikula expressed gratitude for the health centre's compassionate staff and community culture. Chief Nursing Executive Noel Bennett has stepped up as interim President and CEO. 🩺

🎬 'Degrassi' Stars Hosting Special Screenings in Peterborough and Lindsay

"Degrassi High" actors Pat Mastroianni (Joey Jeremiah) and Stacie Mistysyn (Caitlin Ryan) are embarking on a nostalgic high school tour with live Q&A screenings of Degrassi: School’s Out. The duo will meet fans at St. Peter Catholic Secondary School in Peterborough on October 3 and at L.E. Weldon Secondary School in Lindsay on October 17. 📺✨

🎨 New Multi-storey Mural Unveiled at Peterborough Transit Terminal

Community members and city officials gathered at the Peterborough Transit Terminal to celebrate the official completion of "Still Crossing," a prominent multi-level public art installation. Designed by BAU and Cos Studio, the mural spans the facade of the terminal and was selected through a public voting process funded by the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. 🚌🎨

🔨 Women Volunteers Build Three Habitat Homes in Norwood

Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region kicked off its four-day "Women Build '26" event in Norwood. Female volunteers and business leaders from across Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes are constructing three affordable homes for local families, including a multi-generational family, a single mother, and a young family. 🏠💪

🤟 International Week of Deaf People Honoured at Peterborough City Hall

Peterborough City Hall raised the Sign Union (Deaf) flag on Wednesday to mark International Week of Deaf People and the International Day of Sign Languages. City Hall and the Centennial Fountain at Little Lake will remain illuminated in blue throughout the week to celebrate global sign language communities. 💙

🎖️ Norwood Legion Celebrates 87th Anniversary and Annual Awards

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 300 in Norwood hosted its annual Honour and Awards night, celebrating 87 years of community service and the national Legion's 100th anniversary. Notable recognitions included:

• 60-Year Service Pin: John Fleming

• 50-Year Pins: Will Fish & Arnie Patterson

• 50-Year Ladies Auxiliary Recognition: Leslie Rogers

• Worker of the Year: Meri-Lynn Shaw

• Legionnaire of the Year: Branch President Julie English 🇨🇦

🍔 Spotlight on Local Dining Favourite: Vik's Burgers

Our local food spotlight features Vik's Burgers at 25 George St. N. in Peterborough! Their dedicated service, fresh smash burgers, and homemade focus have made it a beloved takeout fixture for local families. 😋👍

🐺 Trent University Expert Weighs In on Urban Coyote Encounters

As aggressive coyote sightings increase across Southern Ontario, Trent University biology professor Dennis Murray highlighted that habituation from urban food sources and human feeding is driving bold behaviour. Murray noted that predatory behaviour in habituated coyotes is largely irreversible, stressing the need for prompt municipal action alongside public safety boundaries. 🌲

🏒 Local Sports

🏒 Peterborough Petes Prepare for Intense Three-Game Weekend

The Peterborough Petes enter a three-in-three weekend schedule against Sarnia, Brantford, and Ottawa while dealing with key roster absences. Head coach Rob Wilson confirmed overage players Lucas Karmiris and Thanasi Marentette remain sidelined due to recovery and conditioning, while the team continues to dispute reports regarding forward Adam Novotny’s NHL/CHL status as he remains with the Vancouver Canucks. 🚨

⚠️ Tragic Heat Stroke Incident Involving Former OHL Player Under Review

Former Ottawa 67's player Matthew Mayich remains hospitalized with severe exertional heat stroke following an outdoor workout at Arizona State University. A preliminary university report revealed that workout safety plans were not submitted beforehand, prompting calls from family representatives for an independent county investigation into safety protocols during extreme heat. 🙏

📣 Notices & Community Announcements

🧁 Fall Bake Sale Notice

Empress Gardens Retirement Residence in Peterborough is holding a Fall Bake Sale on October 8 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM featuring desserts and comfort foods. All proceeds will go to Kawartha Food Share! 🥧

🕊️ Community Memorials

• Nancy Jane Bolam: Passed away at age 77. A Celebration of Life will be held on October 4, 2026, at Northview Gardens in Peterborough.

• Michael Joseph Vincent Zeppieri: Passed away at age 37. A Celebration of Life will take place on September 26, 2026, at Ashburnham Funeral Home in Peterborough.

• Elizabeth Ann "Betty Ann" Ahern: Passed away at age 82. Funeral Mass will be held on September 28, 2026, at the Cathedral of Saint Peter-In-Chains.

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

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

📞 705-927-6236 👤 Brad Sinclair | Realtor® Re/Max Professionals North 📍 Might as well have the BEST to accomplish your goals.

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

Hastings Highlands Council Decision Digest: Growth, Safety, and Community Milestones 🌲🏠

The Municipality of Hastings Highlands held its Regular Meeting of Council on September 16, 2026. Council tackled critical rural land-use decisions, building permit updates, emergency services, and community economic initiatives.

Below is an extensive breakdown of the decisions, background details, real estate impacts, and local perspective from the September 16 agenda and official past minutes.

🪵 Topic 1: The Proposed Maynooth Wood Festival

Summary of Decisions

Council received a delegation from Steve Wilkins representing the Bancroft Area Stewardship Council (BASC)regarding a proposal to launch the Maynooth Wood Festival at the community Loggers Field. BASC requested that the municipality, as the landlord of Loggers Field, collaborate with BASC (the tenant) to host an annual festival celebrating woodcrafting, forestry heritage, sustainability, and local economic growth.

The Big News/Controversy: Why It Matters

Loggers Field was originally secured and developed through community drive and municipal cooperation. BASC's proposal leverages proximity to downtown Maynooth to boost local business revenues. Bringing new festivals into Maynooth helps revive the local artisan and timber culture while generating tourism dollars.

The Real Estate Impact

• Community Vibrancy & Tourism: Dynamic local events enhance Maynooth’s reputation as an artistic hub, driving buyer interest for nearby residential properties and small businesses.

• Property Impact: Increased recreational infrastructure and active community spaces in Maynooth support long-term property values and make surrounding acreage listings attractive to out-of-town buyers.

The Local Perspective

Forestry, woodworking, and outdoor stewardship are deeply ingrained in the lifestyle of North Hastings. Reutilizing Loggers Field for forestry-based gatherings reinforces regional identity while respecting the surrounding natural environment.

📐 Topic 2: Zoning Bylaw Amendment R-2026-005 (Cross Country Road / Monteagle)

Summary of Decisions

Council passed Bylaw 2026-035 to amend Comprehensive Zoning Bylaw 2004-035 for Part of Lot 21, Concession 8, Monteagle Township (1077 Hybla Rd / Cross Country Rd). The zoning changed from Marginal Agriculture (MA) to a site-specific Special Rural Residential (RR-143). This satisfies Condition 9 of Provisional Consent File B101/24 from Hastings County, recognizing a reduced setback from an unlicensed, adjacent Mineral Extractive (MX) zone and formalizing the 2.06-hectare severed lot size.

Staff Report Highlights

• Planner: John Jardine.

• Lot Frontage: 121.92 metres on Cross Country Road (a year-round municipal road).

• Policy Compliance: The proposal complies with the Provincial Planning Statement (2024) and Minimum Distance Separation (MDS) guidelines. The database shows no active pit licenses, and the front yard setback of 20 metres maintains a 103.2-metre distance from the MX zone.

• Agency Feedback: Hastings Highlands Interlake Land Use Planning Committee reviewed the file and noted no environmental concerns.

The Real Estate Impact

• Severance Approvals: Finalizing site-specific zoning allows newly created severance lots to be fully building-permit ready.

• Property Impact: Turning vacant land into buildable rural residential parcels increases available housing stock and inventory in Monteagle Township.

The Local Perspective

Ensuring compatible land use between historical aggregate/extractive zones and new rural homes protects residential quiet while preserving existing municipal road infrastructure.

🏹 Topic 3: Zoning Bylaw Amendment R-2026-010 (Hunt Camp on Herschel Forest Trail)

Summary of Decisions

Council passed Bylaw 2026-036, amending the zoning for Lot 16, Concession 11, Geographic Township of Herschel, from Marginal Agriculture (MA) to a site-specific Special Limited Service Residential-144 (LSR-144). All Environmental Protection (EP) areas remain unchanged. This site-specific exception allows for a 34' x 50' seasonal, 3-season hunt camp on a 100-acre parcel surrounded by Crown land that does not front on a publicly maintained municipal road.

Staff Report Highlights

• Planner: John Jardine.

• Site Details: Land is accessed via Herschel Forest Trail (unopened/unmaintained). The proposed building sits in an existing clearing with no plumbing, heated by wood fireplace.

• Natural Heritage: Located in a Deer Yard (Stratum 1) and within 1,000 metres of the historic, abandoned Peever graphite mine. Planners determined the small seasonal scale poses no environmental risk, avoiding the need for a full Environmental Impact Study.

• Agency Feedback: No public or agency objections were received.

The Big News/Controversy: Why It Matters

Developing off-grid acreage or hunt camps without public road frontage requires specific municipal zoning exceptions under Limited Service Residential rules. Buyers must acknowledge that the municipality does not provide road maintenance, snowplowing, or emergency access guarantees on private or Crown trails.

The Real Estate Impact

• Unserviced Acreage Values: Proving that hunt camps can be legally permitted on unmaintained trails preserves high demand for large recreational tracts, hunting parcels, and off-grid acreage across the Haliburton and Hastings Highlands borders.

• Property Impact: Proper LSR zoning protects property owners by securing legal build rights for recreational structures while shielding the municipality from road maintenance liabilities.

The Local Perspective

Hunting and wilderness recreation are core lifestyle elements in rural Ontario. Allowing seasonal usage while protecting Environmental Protection zones around waterbodies keeps local ecosystems intact.

🏚️ Topic 4: Dormant Building Permits & Ultimate Limitation Period Policy

Summary of Decisions

Council accepted the report from Chief Building Official Martin Cox and adopted the Dormant Building Permits and the Ultimate Limitation Period Policy. CBO Martin Cox is now authorized to implement this province-wide best-practice framework (developed jointly by OLMCBO and OBOA) to handle historical, uninspected, or open building permits.

Staff Report Highlights

• Context: Open, dormant building permits created years or decades ago present liability risks and administrative backlogs, as structural components are often finished and enclosed.

• Legal Alignment: Guided by the Limitations Act, 2002 (15-year ultimate limitation period) and key case law (Huether v. Sharpe, 2025 ONCA 140), the policy dictates that an unclosed file alone does not create indefinite municipal liability.

Policy Framework

1. 0 to <5 Years Inactive: Proactive municipal follow-up, potential site inspection within 12 months, or permit revocation under Section 8(10) of the Building Code Act.

2. 5 to <15 Years Inactive: No proactive municipal enforcement. If an inspection is requested during real estate inquiries, finishes may need to be exposed or a qualified professional engineer retained.

3. 15+ Years Inactive: The municipality will not conduct inspections or initiate enforcement. Buyers/sellers are advised to retain private qualified consultants to evaluate the structure independently.

4. Revoked Permits: No further municipal inspections. A brand-new building permit is required for any further work.

The Real Estate Impact

• Title Search & Closing Guidance: OPEN building permits are a frequent hurdle during real estate transactions! This policy provides clear answers for lawyers, buyers, and sellers handling old permits on rural properties.

• Property Impact: Buyers looking at homes with older permits over 15 years old will need private home inspections rather than expecting municipal building officials to sign off on legacy construction.

🚨 Topic 5: Automatic Aid Agreement with Madawaska Valley

Summary of Decisions

Council enacted Bylaw 2026-037, authorizing a renewal of the Automatic Aid Agreement between the Municipality of Hastings Highlands and the Township of Madawaska Valley, repealing former Bylaw 2023-025. The agreement runs concurrently with the term of Council through 2030.

Staff Report Highlights

• Fire Chief: Bryce Robinson.

• Scope of Service: Madawaska Valley Fire Department provides first-response exterior structure fire suppression, vehicle, and grass/brush fire response to designated boundary properties in Bangor Township (including properties along Wigry Lane, Parchers Road, Barrymere Drive, Ohio Road, Perrier Road, Highway 517, Coulas Road, Schweig Road, and Mullen Road).

• Dispatch & Transfer: Emergency 9-1-1 calls go to Belleville/St. Catharines dispatch and transfer automatically to Renfrew Dispatch. Madawaska Valley arrives first on scene due to geographic proximity, transferring scene command to Hastings Highlands Fire Department upon their arrival.

• Billing & Rates: Services rendered are billed at current Ministry of Transportation (MTO) rates.

The Real Estate Impact

• Insurance Rates: Automatic aid agreements guarantee rapid first-responder deployment to remote or border properties.

• Property Impact: Guaranteed fire response coverage directly protects homeowner insurance eligibility and reduces premium costs for waterfront and rural property owners along the Hastings-Renfrew border.

📊 Topic 6: Building Department Monthly Activity (To August 31, 2026)

Summary of Decisions

Council received the Chief Building Official's monthly activity report detailing construction metrics up to August 31, 2026.

Key Statistics

• Permits Issued: 81 permits issued YTD (compared to 125 in August 2025).

• Construction Value: $10,977,467.40 generated in construction value (compared to $20,070,340.30 in August 2025).

• Permit Revenue: $153,283.01 collected in permit fees and compliance letters.

• Housing Creation: 13 new dwelling units created YTD (including single-detached, additional dwelling units, and recreational dwellings).

• Breakdown: 23 accessory structures, 23 sewage/septic systems, 22 residential buildings, and 10 demolitions.

The Real Estate Impact

• Construction Trends: While total construction value has adjusted compared to the record high in 2025, residential development and septic installations remain steady across Hastings Highlands.

• Property Impact: Strong investment in residential additions, bunkies, and septic replacements highlights ongoing owner reinvestment in rural and waterfront real estate.

🛠️ Topic 7: Operations Department Report & Road Works

Summary of Decisions

Council accepted the August 2026 Operations Report submitted by Operations Manager Denver Mayhew, detailing road maintenance, ditching, and infrastructure care.

Operational Highlights

• Brushing & Tree Clearing: Completed on Williams Lake Rd, Hillsview Rd, Scott Line Rd, Dwire Rd, and Brethour Rd.

• Culvert & Ditching Upgrades: Culverts replaced on Graphite Rd, Hillsview Rd, Hybla Rd, and McAllister Rd. Beaver grates cleared on Papineau Lake Rd, Lake St. Peter Rd, and Greenview Rd.

• Landfill Operations: Material grinding for construction/demolition waste commenced at East Lake waste site. Winter sand hauling completed for sand domes at Musclow/Greenview and Highway 62.

📑 Summary of Decisions from Previous Council Minutes (August 5, 2026)

To maintain complete coverage of municipal proceedings, here are the key resolutions adopted during the August 5, 2026 Council meeting:

1. Williams Lake Road Widening (Bylaw 2026-034): Passed a bylaw accepting the land transfer of Part of Lots 9 & 10, Concession 1 (McClure Township) from Wendy Keating for municipal road widening.

2. Asset Management Plan: Accepted the 2026 Annual Asset Management Progress Report presented under O. Reg. 588/17.

3. Community Grants Review: Approved continuing the Miscellaneous Grant Program for funding requests under $500 and directed procedural updates for requests over $500.

4. 25th Anniversary Clock Unveiling: Authorized planning for Hastings Highlands' 25th-anniversary commemorative clock event.

5. Joint Election Compliance Audit Committee (Bylaw 2026-031): Established the joint committee for the upcoming 2026 municipal election.

📞 Call To Action: Partner With Your Local Expert

Navigating municipal bylaws, zoning amendments, open building permits, or severance conditions requires local experience and clear answers. Whether you are buying a waterfront cottage on Papineau Lake, looking for off-grid acreage in Herschel, or selling a home in Maynooth, I am here to help you make informed decisions!

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

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

📞 705-927-6236 👤 Brad Sinclair | Realtor® Re/Max Professionals North 📍 Might as well have the BEST to accomplish your goals.

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