The Barrie City Council and General Committee meetings on December 11 tackled several key issues, marking the final sessions of the year. Highlights included a funding request from Crime Stoppers of Simcoe-Dufferin-Muskoka, strategies to mitigate postal strike impacts, and the recognition of a retiring city official.

Crime Stoppers Funding Request Under Review

The Barrie Police Service is currently assessing a funding request from Crime Stoppers of Simcoe-Dufferin-Muskoka. Since its inception in 1987, the program has reportedly solved thousands of cases and led to the seizure of millions of dollars worth of illegal drugs. Mayor Alex Nuttall clarified the funding's historical precedent:

“Traditionally, it’s been the police department that has funded Crime Stoppers, not the City of Barrie,” he said, indicating the matter would likely be addressed at an upcoming Police Board meeting.

Postal Strike Delays City Services

The ongoing postal strike has disrupted the delivery of water bills, tax bills, and automated speed enforcement tickets. Council explored several mitigation strategies, including extending payment deadlines and using courier services. Acting CFO Colleen Smith assured council that interim tax bills are expected to be mailed by February, with deadlines adjusted as needed.

Deputy Mayor Robert Thomson expressed concerns about late fees for speed enforcement tickets. City Clerk Wendy Cooke explained that provincial law mandates such tickets be mailed within 23 days of the violation. While courier services are being considered, unresolved delays could invalidate some tickets.

On a positive note, Access Barrie Executive Director Rebecca James-Reid reported a significant rise in online billing adoption. “We’ve seen a fourfold increase in people signing up for e-billing in the last week,” she said.

Honouring Dan Bell’s Retirement

The council honoured Dan Bell, Director of Recreation and Culture Services, as he prepared to retire after years of dedicated service. Mayor Nuttall praised Bell for his leadership and contributions, including his work with at-risk youth through the Bright Futures Barrie strategy and his support for local arts initiatives.

“Dan’s been an exceptional leader for our recreation and culture team. His commitment to providing access to recreational services and supporting the arts has left a lasting impact on our community,” said Mayor Nuttall.

Councilor Ann-Marie Kungl commended Bell’s equitable approach to problem-solving and his efforts to expand recreational access.

2025 City Budget Highlights

Budget adjustments and key infrastructure projects for 2025 were discussed in the first half of the City Council meeting. These include:

• Improvements to the Peggy Hill Community Centre
• Development of a Little Lake boardwalk
• Updates on the Performing Arts Center
• Fire station projects
• Ward-wide lighting improvements

Upcoming Events and Announcements

• New Year’s Eve Levy: Families are invited to a free skate on December 31 at East Bayfield Community Centre (11 a.m.–1 p.m.) and Allandale Recreation Centre (2–4 p.m.).
• Downtown Countdown: The annual New Year’s Eve celebration will feature headliner Madeline Merlo, children’s entertainment, and fireworks at City Hall starting at 6 p.m.
• Waste Collection Calendar: The 2025 calendar will be available online by the end of December and at various city facilities during the postal strike.