Boundary talks between Barrie, Springwater and Oro-Medonte reach final stage

Residents will have a chance to weigh in on a proposed boundary shakeup between Barrie and Springwater.

Boundary negotiations between the City of Barrie, Simcoe County, Springwater Township, and Oro-Medonte, and the province have officially wrapped up, with Barrie submitting its final offer last week.

The City is seeking to expand its boundary by about 4,300 acres, most of it coming from Springwater.

Mayor Alex Nuttall said the move is aimed at boosting the region’s economy. “Certainly I feel like we’re putting a lot on the table for the other municipalities, for their residents, for economic development, for jobs in the region."

Barrie’s proposal includes not only the land transfer but also a package of services and incentives. The City offered to provide water and waste water service to parts of Springwater, along with economic development support, a tax phase-in, and waterfront parking passes for Springwater residents.

Nuttall argues the plan would help balance the pace of population growth with job opportunities. “Our job growth has not kept up with our residential human growth in the area. That’s going to make, not just Barrie more economically viable, but the entire Greater Barrie area.”

But opposition has been strong.

Springwater council previously described the plan as a “terrible deal,” prompting the province to step in to facilitate talks.

“Obviously cities need agriculture, at the same time, the City of Barrie provides a lot for our surrounding municipalities in terms of recreation, culture, and services,” Nuttall added.

CTV News reached out to Springwater Mayor Jennifer Coughlin, who was not available for comment on the matter.

The City has plans to hold a public meeting on Monday, with council expected to vote on Wednesday. Springwater’s public meeting is set for Oct. 8, with a council decision to follow.