Barrie to hold open house for new residents affected by boundary adjustment

The City of Barrie has officially annexed land from Oro-Medonte and Springwater Townships.

The City of Barrie will be holding an open house for residents affected by the boundary change on Jan.15, from 3 to 7 p.m. at city hall.

Residents will have the opportunity to meet city staff, learn more about services, and have questions answered.

On Dec. 9, the Province of Ontario passed the Barrie-Oro-Medonte-Springwater Boundary Adjustment Act, 2025, which provided the annexation of portions of Springwater Township and Oro-Medonte Township to Barrie to support long-term housing, employment and growth.

After months of deliberation and conversations, the City of Barrie officially claimed land from the townships on Jan. 1.

Kelly Oakley, director of boundary adjustment for the city, said staff are working to create a seamless transition.

“We hope that the public doesn’t even notice little change in their level of service. We’re phasing in the winter maintenance for a number of the roads over the next couple of months,” said Oakley.

The city will now be responsible for Ferndale drive north and Sunnidale Road, 5/6 Sideroad, Partridge Road and Miller Drive.

While the mass of land is large, a small number of residents will be immediately affected.

“It is a large area, but it is rural in nature, with large properties,” said Oakley. “So we understand there’s less than 200 people who are actually impacted in joining the city.”

Those affected will now have access to city services including fire, police, and by-law, a waterfront parking pass, recreation programs and facilities and the landfill.

A five-year phase in for city taxes will be initiated starting this year.

“We want to help residents if they do notice a change or we want to help them understand what new services might be available to them now that they are part of the city,” said Oakley.

The city has released a map for residents to view if they are unsure if their property is impacted.

You can find that map here.