What Makes a Strong Community? Reflections on Connection, Cooperation, and Showing Up
There’s something special about life in a small town like Haliburton. It isn’t just the lakes or the quiet roads , it’s the way people look out for one another. Whether it’s a friendly wave at the grocery store, a quick snow shovel for a neighbour, or a group of volunteers rallying to help someone…
When Democracy Depends on Us: Takeaways from Devolin & Monsef in Haliburton
Tuesday Night (Oct. 7) in Wilberforce, I had the opportunity to attend an inspiring community event hosted by the Haliburton Highlands Healthy Democracy Project (HHHDP). As part of their Voices & Votes speaker series, former MPs Barry Devolin and Maryam Monsef shared their personal insights on how and why civic engagement matters at every level…
Dysart et al Council Discusses Next Steps for 93-Acre Property on County Road 21
October 7, 2025 Special Meeting Dysart et al Council held a special meeting today to discuss plans for the 93-acre property the municipality purchased in 2023, located just past Tim Horton’s, across from Peninsula Drive on County Road 21. Back in January, Council set aside $100,000 to begin studies on the land. At the meeting,…
How Can We Keep Haliburton a Safe Community?
Like many of you, I’ve been reading and hearing about the recent increase in property crime in downtown Haliburton — from attempted break-ins at businesses to stolen vehicles and vandalism. It’s upsetting to see these kinds of reports so close to home. I know our community prides itself on being a safe, welcoming place, so…
The Great Haliburton Clothing Swap: Community, Sustainability, and the Joy of Volunteering
This past week, my daughter and I had the privilege of volunteering with the Great Haliburton Clothing Swap at Fleming College’s Haliburton School of Art + Design. Over two days, we welcomed donations, sorted through piles of gently-used clothing, and witnessed firsthand the generosity and spirit of our community. The tables quickly filled with beautiful,…
Why Are Gas Prices in Haliburton Higher Than Anywhere Else?
Haliburton is one of the poorest communities in Ontario, yet somehow we’re paying some of the highest gas prices in the province. That’s not just frustrating—it feels unfair. Unlike many towns, Haliburton has no real competition when it comes to gas stations. Two out of three stations are owned by the same individual and overseen…
What Happened at the September 23 Dysart Council Meeting
On September 23, Dysart Council held a public meeting to review a major planning application for the proposed Algonquin Garden development on Elephant Lake. Residents turned out (in person and online) to share strong concerns about the project’s environmental and community impacts. Here’s a summary of what was discussed and decided. Elephant Lake Development Proposal,…
