As we transition from summer into fall, I wanted to share an update on what’s been happening in Ward 10 and across Barrie:
A Terrific Summer in Barrie
I hope you and your family enjoyed a vibrant and eventful summer in Barrie! From Kempenfest to the Dragon Boat Festival, the Troubadour Festival, and so many local activities across our parks and waterfront—it’s been a season full of community spirit. I also had the opportunity to attend the AMO Conference, where I joined municipal leaders from across Ontario to advocate for better provincial support on housing, health care, and local infrastructure. Now, Council is back in session, and there’s a lot to share.
State of Emergency Declared
On Sept 9, Mayor Nuttall declared a State of Emergency in response to the growing homelessness and encampment crisis. This decision doesn’t mean new powers or restrictions – it’s a call to action to signal the seriousness of the issue and accelerate partnerships with provincial and federal governments. It allows the City to better coordinate with health and social service agencies and access additional funding to increase shelter capacity. The goal: reduce encampments in our parks and public spaces while ensuring people have somewhere safe to go.
New Waste Cart Collection
The new automated waste cart collection program has started. Here’s what you need to know:
- Set carts out by 7 a.m. on your collection day.
- Place organics and garbage carts on garbage weeks, organics only on the off weeks.
- Leave 2 feet (0.6 m) of space between carts and anything else—fences, bins, cars—so the truck’s automated arm can lift them.
- Arrows on the lid should face the street, and lids must be closed.
Only carts are collected—no loose garbage bags. If your garbage cart is full, place a tagged bag 2 feet away. Yard waste and recycling remain unchanged. Full details here.
Back to School: Please Slow Down
Speeding continues to be the number one complaint I receive across Ward 10. As school resumes, please take extra care in school zones and residential areas.
Many residents ask for speed bumps, but each ward is limited to 8 per year, and they are placed based on traffic studies. We continue to advocate for broader traffic calming measures—but driver behaviour is the first line of defence.
Ward Boundary Changes
On June 18, Council approved new ward boundaries. For Ward 10, the biggest change is that the north side of Big Bay Point will now fall outside the ward. These changes take effect in the 2026 municipal election. Learn more and view the map at: BuildingBarrie.ca/WardsReview.
Share Your Feedback
E-Scooter Use – The City is seeking feedback on e-scooters to guide policy on where and how they’re used. If the survey is still open, you can find it at BuildingBarrie.ca. Transportation Master Plan – public consultation to be held Thursday, September 18, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at General John Hayter Southshore Community Centre
Mapleview Drive East Improvements
Upgrades are coming to Mapleview Drive East from Yonge to Prince William. This project will widen the road, improve intersections, and add sidewalks, bike lanes, and lighting. It’s a major step forward for traffic and pedestrian safety in our growing south end. Details at: Mapleview Project Page
South Barrie Rec Centre & Library
One of my key campaign commitments is moving forward! The City has secured land at McKay Road & Huronia for a new Recreation Complex and Library to serve our growing south end. Staff presented three options for design and programming this summer, and I’ll be asking for your input shortly.
Stay Connected
As always, I’m here to help. Whether you have a question, a concern, or an idea to improve our community, feel free to reach out at bryn.hamilton@barrie.ca or follow me @CouncillorBryn on Instagram and Facebook.
Wishing you a smooth start to fall and a safe, connected season ahead.
