🗞️ JUST THE FRONT PAGE: Local Headlines in Less Than 3 Minutes 🗞️ July 25th, 2026

Get up to speed on everything happening across Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, and the Highlands today!

🏛️ Local News & Public Safety

• Courtroom Security Heightened After Assault: 30-year-old Matthew Dakin pleaded guilty to assault after jumping out of an unshielded prisoner's box and attacking Crown attorney Kelly Eberhard in a Peterborough courtroom in February. Dakin was sentenced to a 60-day jail term consecutive to his current prison sentence for aggravated assault. The incident has prompted intense scrutiny over court security, leading to the installation of new Plexiglas barriers in the courtroom.

• Tragic Propane Explosion at Golf Resort: The Ministry of Labour and Peterborough OPP are investigating a fatal explosion at Bellmere Winds Golf Resort near Keene. First responders rushed to the scene Wednesday afternoon after a propane explosion occurred inside a residential trailer, fatally injuring a 63-year-old Warkworth man who later passed away at a Toronto trauma hospital.

• Late-Night Knife Arrest in Peterborough: Peterborough Police arrested a 44-year-old male early Thursday morning near Park Street and Romaine Street. Officers stopped the suspect after he matched descriptions from an incident hours earlier where a knife was drawn and threats were made in a nearby parking lot. A search yielded a folding knife, and he faces active charges of Assault with a Weapon and Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose.

• Bench Removal at Fleming Park Sparks Debate: City staff have removed benches and picnic tables from Fleming Park (corner of Aylmer and Brock Streets). A video posted on Facebook suggests the move was meant to deter drug use, though city officials haven't officially confirmed the reason. Town Ward Councillor Alex Bierk noted it was a staff-level decision following neighbour complaints, but stressed that removing benches addresses symptoms rather than the root causes of homelessness and lack of public supports. Councillor Joy Lachica expressed concerns over public accessibility.

🏗️ Municipal & Governance Updates

• Peterborough County Accuses City of Confidentiality Breach: A significant governance rift has opened between county and city leadership. Peterborough County Warden Bonnie Clark issued a formal statement accusing the City of Peterborough of violating a non-disclosure agreement regarding regional growth and boundary expansion talks. Warden Clark noted that the city’s decision to issue a public announcement following their first provincially facilitated mediation meeting risks undermining collaborative regional planning efforts.

• Kawartha Lakes Demands Infrastructure Funding: Kawartha Lakes Council unanimously backed a request urging the Ontario government to permanently double the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF) to help cover backlogs in state-of-good-repair project funding.

🚧 Community Development & Traffic Advisories

• Demolition Commences for 17-Storey East City Build: Heavy machinery has begun site clearing and demolition at the former Mark Street United Church site at 90 Hunter Street East. The work marks the start of a major East City redevelopment project that will construct a 17-storey residential building.

• Road Closures for Lindsay Milk Run: The City of Kawartha Lakes municipal service branch has issued a public traffic notice ahead of the annual Lindsay Milk Run taking place this Sunday, July 26. Drivers should expect temporary road closures and rolling delays around the Lindsay Recreation Complex between 6:00 AM and 11:00 AM.

• Trail Bypass Announced for Victoria Rail Trail Work: The City of Kawartha Lakes has issued a public trail closure notice for the Victoria Rail Trail north of Somerville 3rd Concession, set to take effect Monday, July 27. Municipal crews will begin necessary bridge rehabilitation work, with a temporary bypass route using local roads established to maintain public access.

💎 Events & Festivities

• Rockhound Gemboree Upgrades Web Hub: Organizers for Bancroft’s iconic Rockhound Gemboree (July 30 – August 2) have officially launched a redesigned digital hub. The 61st annual showcase—Canada's largest gem and mineral show—is prepping for an influx of thousands of rockhounds, mineralogists, and tourists, offering streamlined vendor maps, daily schedules, and online ticketing.

• Canada Day Fireworks Rescheduled: The City of Peterborough formally announced that the Canada Day fireworks display originally cancelled due to weather will take place over Little Lake during the upcoming Civic Holiday long weekend.

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🏡 Real Estate Corner

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

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Families love the Kawarthas & Highlands. Let’s find your place in it. 🌲🏡

Just the Front Page, What is happening around Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Bancroft and Haliburton-July 24th, 2026

🗞️ Morning Briefing: Peterborough & Kawarthas Front Page News

Get caught up on everything happening around Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Bancroft and Haliburton in less than 3 minutes.

🏛️ Local Politics & Public Expenses

MPP David Piccini Expense Filings Draw Scrutiny

Financial filings show that the Progressive Conservative riding association for Labour Minister David Piccini (MPP for Northumberland-Peterborough South) spent $40,000 on events and meetings. Expenses included:

• Sushi-rolling and dumpling-making classes in Toronto

• High-end restaurant dining and an arcade lounge

• Meals at a Florida golf course and beach venue

While Elections Ontario confirmed no official rules were broken, opposition leaders have sharply criticized the spending choices.

Town Ward Candidates Clash Over Missing Lawn Signs

First-time Peterborough city council candidate Jenni Cathcart reported several campaign signs stolen from Homewood Avenue, expressing concern over name recognition as a newcomer. Incumbent councillors Alex Bierk and Joy Lachica noted that missing signs are an unfortunate political reality that shouldn't distract voters from core election issues.

🚑 Safety, Emergency & Justice

Severe Propane Explosion at Bellmere Winds Resort

Emergency crews rushed to Bellmere Winds Golf Resort in Keene following a violent cottage explosion. A 63-year-old Warkworth man employed at the resort suffered severe injuries and was rushed for urgent medical care. The exact cause of the ignition remains under investigation.

Peterborough Killer’s Sentence Reduced Over Frigid Cell Conditions

Geoffrey Riley received a 13-year sentence for the April 2024 manslaughter of William Tobin and aggravated assault of Courtney Bartley. However, Justice Bhavneet K. Bhangu granted Riley a 9-month sentence reduction after learning inmates at Central East Correctional Centre were left outside in −20°C weather for 90 minutes without gloves or proper footwear during a cell search—treatment the judge called "shocking."

Serial Commercial Break & Enter Suspect Arrested

Peterborough Police arrested a 42-year-old Ottawa man following downtown commercial break-ins. Officers linked the suspect to a July 14 incident on Hunter Street and a July 20 break-in on Charlotte Street involving over $5,000 in stolen cash and merchandise. He faces multiple B&E and probation breach charges.

Impaired Driver Crashes into Tree, Flees on Watercraft

A 25-year-old Peterborough man faces dangerous driving and impaired driving charges after striking a tree on Centennial Lane in Trent Hills. Police report the driver fled the crash scene on a personal watercraft before officers intercepted him shouting at the public on a nearby road.

🚌 Community & Healthcare Initiatives

Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Equips Trucks with Sensory Support Kits

To better assist neurodivergent individuals, children, and residents experiencing severe anxiety during emergencies, Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue vehicles are now equipped with specialized sensory kits. Kits include noise-cancelling headphones, fidget tools, and communication boards.

Peterborough Transit Launches Youth Pass Pilot

The City of Peterborough rolled out a new Youth Transit Pass Pilot Program providing discounted, streamlined bus access across all city routes through the remainder of summer and the upcoming school year to support local youth mobility.

New Canadian Blood Services Donor Centre Opening at Lansdowne Place

A new donor centre opens Monday, July 27, inside Lansdowne Place mall next to the food court, replacing the former George Street North location. Advocate Lynn Witteveen noted that the annual blood drive honouring her late partner, Dr. Andrew Chan, will take place at this new location.

🌳 Parks & Economic Strategy

Peterborough Strategy Shifts "Beyond Smokestacks"

The City unveiled a revised economic strategy developed by McSweeney & Associates. The plan shifts municipal focus away from traditional heavy manufacturing recruitment toward resident attraction, small business retention, and sector diversification.

Emily Provincial Park Expands by 72 Acres

The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks announced a 72-acre expansion for Emily Provincial Park. The added wetland and shoreline along the Pigeon River near Omemee will protect key local biodiversity.

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🏡 Thinking of Buying or Selling Real Estate in the Kawarthas?

Whether you're looking for your dream cottage, a family home, or an investment property in Peterborough & the Kawarthas, let's get you on the path to success!

📞 Call/Text: 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-July 23, 2026

🗞️ Morning Briefing: Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes & North Hastings News

Get caught up on the top local headlines driving our region today—read in less than 3 minutes.

💼 Local Economy & Regional Growth

City Launches Public Survey to Shape Peterborough’s Economic Future

The City of Peterborough has launched a public consultation initiative titled “Shape Peterborough’s Economic Future.”Following recent regional manufacturing updates, the municipal team is seeking direct input from local business leaders, property owners, and community stakeholders. The feedback will help build a regional growth strategy scheduled to go before city council this fall.

Mayoral Candidates Sound Off on Economic Strategy Delays

Current Ashburnham Ward councillor and mayoral candidate Keith Riel expressed disappointment over the city's economic development progress 18 months following the dissolution of Peterborough Kawartha Economic Development (PKED). Mayoral candidates Michael Eamon, Neil Morton, and Rebecca Schillemat also voiced frustration over strategy delays during a recent public session. Mayor Jeff Leal defended recent city efforts while addressing past council decisions. A final strategic report is expected after the October election.

🌲 Community News & Summer Tourism

Rockhound Gemboree Launches Upgraded Portal

The Town of Bancroft officially launched a revamped digital portal for Canada’s largest gem and mineral show, the Rockhound Gemboree. The new site streamlines maps, vendor management, and schedules for incoming summer visitors.

Faraday Leadership Defends Library Funding Freeze

Faraday Township leadership has publicly defended its choice to withhold its historical $35,000 contribution to the Bancroft Public Library. Meanwhile, the library board is making interim budget adjustments to address the gap in its $225,000 operating budget ahead of its planned late-fall move into North Hastings Inspiration Place.

National Drowning Prevention Week Water Safety

In support of National Drowning Prevention Week, Peterborough Fire Services and local lifeguards are offering free water safety gear checks and lifejacket fitting demonstrations across local public waterfronts.

⚖️ Public Safety, Court & Crime Updates

• Tragic Loss on Cross Lake: Emergency responders—including Bancroft OPP, Whitney Paramedics, and the OPP Underwater Search and Recovery Unit—responded to a capsized canoe on Cross Lake, south of Algonquin Park. Tragically, a 17-year-old male from Mariposa Township in Kawartha Lakes was recovered and pronounced deceased.

• Impaired Driving Arrest in Bobcaygeon: A 53-year-old Trent Lakes resident faces impaired and careless driving charges after striking a parked vehicle on Main Street in Bobcaygeon. City of Kawartha Lakes OPP made the arrest following a 911 call.

• 13-Year Sentence in Fatal Peterborough Shooting: Geoffrey Riley received a 13-year prison sentence (with approximately nine years remaining after pre-sentence custody credits) for the 2024 manslaughter of William "Bill" Tobin and aggravated assault of Courtney Bartley at a Peterborough housing complex.

• Niagara Murder Suspects Spotted Near Hastings: Niagara Regional Police report that two murder suspects, Maroof Bangi and Josta Grace MacNeal, were spotted in Hastings on Highway 45 driving a white 2016 Toyota Camry.

• ORB Ruling on John Lai: The Ontario Review Board ruled that John Lai, who was found Not Criminally Responsible for the 2016 death of landlord Cindy Torbar during a psychotic episode, continues to pose a public safety threat and will remain under a conditional discharge with ongoing monitoring.

• Aggregate Act Fines: Two Madoc-area men received a combined $30,000 fine in local court after convictions for non-compliance under Ontario’s Aggregate Resources Act.

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

🏠 Thinking About Real Estate in the Kawarthas or Highlands?

Whether buying, selling, or looking for expert market advice, let’s get you on the path to 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 and Highlands. Let’s find your place in it.

🗞️ JUST THE FRONT PAGE NEWS for Peterborough, Kawarthas, and the Highlands. The essential council, crime, and local headlines you need to start your day in less than 5 minutes.🗞️ June 13th, 2026

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Arrest Warrant Remains Active for GTA Teen Following Downtown Shooting: #BancroftOPP are continuing their active search for a 17-year-old male from the Greater Toronto Area following last weekend's brazen daytime shooting. Emergency services responded to a parking lot at the corner of Bridge Street and Hastings Street just before 5:00 PM after reports of gunfire. A male victim subsequently arrived at a local hospital with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. The suspect, whose identity is protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, fled the area on a bicycle and faces extensive charges including assault with a weapon and discharging a firearm with intent

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Haliburton Launches Public Survey and Town Halls for Major County Review: The #CountyofHaliburton, alongside the Eastern Ontario Regional Network (EORN), has officially launched an extensive community survey and a slate of five public town halls. Following unanimous council endorsement, the affordability and governance study is examining ways to simplify municipal processes and lower taxpayer burdens. Independent scenario modeling will evaluate everything from targeted shared services to a complete single-tier amalgamation model. The public survey is live on the county's Wade In portal until June 28, with the first in-person open house scheduled for June 23 at the Haliburton Legion.

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Peterborough Homicide Investigation: A 45-year-old Peterborough woman has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder following the sudden death of her 74-year-old mother. Emergency services originally pulled the victim from the Otonabee River near the London Street footbridge on June 9, and subsequent follow-ups by the Major Crime Unit led to the criminal charge.

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Petes Select Landon Roulston 13th Overall: The Peterborough Petes kicked off the first round of the 2026 OHL Priority Selection draft last night by selecting Oakville native Landon Roulston. The 6'1" center put up 38 points in 33 games with the Vaughan Kings U16s this past season, helping lead them to a GTHL Championship. General Manager Michael Oke praised Roulston’s two-way game and competitiveness ahead of rounds 2 through 15.

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Prolific Spree Thief Jailed: Thomas Smiley, 36, has been sentenced to 20 weeks in prison and handed a 14-month driving ban at Peterborough Magistrates' Court. Smiley was captured on CCTV executing a string of shoplifting incidents and using a stolen black Land Rover to flee the scenes, continuing his crime spree while actively subject to other pending court proceedings for motor vehicle theft.

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Planned Power Outage Notice: #HydroOne has scheduled a planned power outage for maintenance work affecting close to 10,000 residents across Lindsay, Bobcaygeon, Fenelon Falls, and Dunsford. The outage will run from 8:00 PM on Sunday, June 14, until 4:00 AM on Monday, June 15. Residents are reminded to prepare emergency kits and unplug electronics to prevent power surge damage. 

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2026 Municipal Election Voting Rights: A public notice released clarifies that seasonal cottage owners, renters, and students attending school outside of town all possess legal voting rights within #KawarthaLakes for the upcoming 2026 municipal election. 

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OPP Detachment Board Approves Local Service Challenge Coins: The #HaliburtonHighlandsOPP Detachment board unanimously approved an $800 budget to purchase 100 local "service challenge coins". Station commander Deb McClure proposed the initiative to recognize local officers in a timely manner for exemplary deeds or milestones. In board reappointments, Andrew Hodgson was formally renewed as a community board member for up to two years

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K.O. Martial Arts Opens New #Minden Dojo: Owner Kelly Outram has relocated his studio from a rented basement in Haliburton to a newly renovated, freestanding facility at 108 Golf Course Road in Minden. The building—a gutted and completely refurbished former automotive garage—opened its doors on June 1 and offers combat sports, fitness, qigong, and meditation.

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Canoe FM Call for Board Applications: Not-for-profit community radio station #Canoe 100.9 & 97.1 FM is accepting applications to join its leadership Board of Directors. Interested applicants have until June 30 to submit their resume to Station Manager Roxanne Casey

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Both city and county councils have been actively reshaping how local tourism is managed heading into the peak summer season: #Peterborough Council officially endorsed a new tourism growth strategy aligned with provincial priorities. However, the decision was met with ongoing debates regarding the efficiency and long-term viability of transitioning to an in-house service model versus using third-party regional tourism organizations.

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Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board: The board officially approved its $552 million operating budget for the 2026-27 school year. The balanced budget manages to preserve student programming despite navigating rising operational costs and slight enrolment shifts across the broader region. 

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Questions? Let’s chat.

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

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