Community Update from Ward 1 Councillor Matt Garwood, Township of Springwater
Hello Springwater residents. I’m pleased to share updates on recent decisions and developments that are shaping our community. My goal with these columns is to inform, not to offer opinions, so you can stay connected with what’s happening in Springwater.
Kraft Hockeyville Nomination: Update
Over the past few weeks, our community came together in an incredible way for our Kraft Hockeyville nomination, and we couldn’t be more proud.
While Elmvale was not selected as Ontario’s recipient this year, the effort and spirit behind our nomination were nothing short of remarkable. Across the province, more than 500 arenas participated in the Hockeyville program, and Elmvale stood tall among them. Considering the short window we had to organize and rally the community, the response we received was truly something special. We also extend our congratulations to the Ontario provincial recipient, Blackstock. Small-town arenas like ours are the heart of our communities and all are deserving of investment and support.
And when we talk about success, we measure it by something even more meaningful than the final result: the pride, participation, and community spirit that Elmvale showed throughout this entire process.
To everyone who submitted a story, posted a photo, wrote a rally note, shared our posts, or encouraged someone else to participate, thank you. You helped show the entire country what Elmvale is all about.
This may be the end of this year’s Hockeyville journey, but one thing is certain… we’ll be back next year. And if this nomination proved anything, it’s that when Elmvale comes together, amazing things happen.
Spring is in the air.
We finally welcomed the first day of spring – with a mix of snow and rain. While it does not bring an immediate change to our weather it does serve as a great reminder that warm and sunny days are coming our way. I know we are all hoping that these warm and sunny days will get here sooner rather than later given the amount of snow we had this year.
I was reviewing my calendar and looking at some upcoming events and I could not help but notice that April 1st, aka April Fools’ Day, falls mid-week. It could be fun if we cross paths with pranksters at work and while we are out and about. Thinking about April Fools’ Day led me to a bit of research on the origins. I read that there is speculation that April Fools’ Day is tied to the first day of spring when Mother Nature ‘fools’ people with changing and unpredictable weather. And we all know that weather in April is unpredictable.
Easter is happening early this year on the first weekend in April, so we should get busy decorating eggs and picking-up chocolate. Speaking of decorating eggs, the Simcoe County Museum is hosting an Easter Egg-venture on April 4th from 1-4 pm. Enjoy an outdoor Easter trail, a fun craft, and a prize at the end. Admission is – Adult (21-64) $8, Senior (65+) and Youth (12-20) $6, Child (4-11) $4, and preschoolers and Museum Members are free. It will be fun for the whole family.
Let us keep wearing layers for the next while as we wait for the warmer spring weather to arrive. And maybe keep some rain boots nearby.
As always, my constituency office is available to assist you with any matters related to the federal government. Please contact my office at Doug.Shipley@parl.gc.ca or 705-728-2596 for assistance.
Sincerely, Doug Shipley
Member of Parliament – Barrie – Springwater – Oro-Medonte
MESSAGE FROM MPP DUNLOP – April 2026
Happy Spring Simcoe North! At this time of year I am reminded of the renewal and optimism that this season brings. Spring is a special time in our communities, families return to enjoying the outdoors, local businesses gear up for visitors both local and from out of town, and farmers prepare for another year of dedicated work in the fields.
After returning to Queen’s Park last month, I am happy to share the following updates from the province that will benefit communities across our region. One of the most significant investments is in essential water and wastewater infrastructure. Through the province’s Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program, up to $78.4 million is being allocated to water system upgrades in Simcoe North, including projects in Orillia, Ramara, Tay Township, Penetanguishene, and Tiny Township. These upgrades will modernize aging systems, prevent issues such as sewage backups, and support responsible growth in our communities.
Our government is also assisting municipalities in recovering from the severe ice storm that affected the region in 2025. Through Ontario’s Municipal Ice Storm Assistance program, over $9 million in provincial funding is being provided to help cover emergency response costs, debris cleanup, and infrastructure repairs. This support ensures municipalities have the resources needed to rebuild and strengthen local infrastructure.
In addition, the province recently announced $229,400 in funding through the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Grow program to support non-profit organizations in Simcoe North. These investments will help local groups expand programs that strengthen community connections and provide valuable services for residents.
As we move into the nicer weather, I extend my gratitude to the residents, volunteers, and community leaders who make Simcoe North such a vibrant place to live. I also want to extend an invite to the 2026 Free Annual Seniors Day event in Orillia on May 20th at the new location, the Barnfield Point Recreation Centre. This event will feature guest speakers, service providers, and more, designed to celebrate and support our senior residents. I look forward to seeing you there as we continue to work together to build strong communities, support local jobs, and create opportunities for families across our region.