The Township of Springwater council heard mixed public feedback on the City of Barrie’s proposed boundary adjustment during a recent meeting.
The Oct. 8 public meeting at Springwater’s town hall drew about 80 people, with more than 25 speakers sharing their views on the proposal.
On Sept. 25, Barrie, Springwater and the Township of Oro-Medonte released a draft framework outlining a potential adjustment to Barrie’s city boundaries. From Springwater, about 1,216 hectares would be transferred to Barrie, including all of Little Lake just west of Highway 400.
Under the proposal, Barrie would pay $15,000 per acre, and 81 Springwater residences would move into the city’s new boundaries. The deal also includes cross-border servicing along part of the Bayfield Street North corridor.
If approved, the land transfer would take effect Jan. 1, 2026. Barrie would pay Springwater just over $22 million, plus $850,000 for economic development over a five-year period.
Former Springwater councillor Jack Hanna said he views the plan as a land sale rather than a boundary adjustment, adding that he prefers “made-in-Springwater” solutions.
“I think this is a sale, if you like, based on negotiations that have taken place between both mayors of Barrie and Springwater,” he said.
“The negotiations that are taking place basically amount to two scenarios: Barrie offering some money, and Springwater coming up with a made-in-Springwater solution.”
Springwater resident John Spring also opposed the plan, questioning why Barrie’s needs seem to take priority over those of other Simcoe County municipalities.
“How did we go from a regional, market-based approach to only considering Barrie’s specific needs?” he asked.
Resident Janine Peck spoke in support of the plan and praised Springwater Mayor Jennifer Coughlin’s leadership in discussions with neighbouring municipalities.
“Our council plays a critical role in guiding this community’s future, and that responsibility demands thoughtful leadership, not immediate rejection,” she said.
“I strongly support Mayor Coughlin’s leadership and her commitment to continuing to negotiate a fair, forward-looking agreement with the City of Barrie.”
Greg Davidson voiced concerns that four of the seven council members — Deputy Mayor George Cabral and councillors Anita Moore, Danielle Alexander and Phil Fisher — are not acting in the township’s best interests.
“It’s important to review how this divided council has mishandled many issues facing the Township of Springwater,” he said.
“Further, the misguided approach and poor judgment of four members of council has created an unworkable governance structure leading to costly outcomes for taxpayers.”
Davidson added that the Ontario government had asked for a locally developed solution to the boundary issue.
“Are there any members of the public who believe the province was not deadly serious when they requested a local solution, including the mayor negotiating?” he asked.
Developer Paul Sadlon Jr., whose property at 742 Bayfield St. N. is slated for a mixed-use project with retirement housing, residential units, and medical and commercial space, said he supports the annexation if it allows cross-border services to proceed.
“We need a reliable servicing partner, and Barrie’s the only option,” he said.
“Cross-border servicing just makes sense — it benefits both Springwater and Barrie by allowing this land to contribute housing and community uses instead of sitting idle.”
Mayor Coughlin acknowledged the strong emotions the issue has stirred but thanked residents for their input.
“I understand that this topic invokes strong feelings, and I want to acknowledge the comments we’ve heard about growth and the future of our community,” she said.
Barrie first proposed a boundary adjustment in 2023 to accommodate growth. Mayor Alex Nuttall has said the plan is meant to ensure the city has enough land for new housing and industrial development, with Barrie’s population projected to reach 298,000 by 2051.
The province appointed a facilitator in fall 2024 to guide discussions among the municipalities. The Ontario government has set a Sept. 30, 2025, deadline for a framework deal on the boundary adjustment.
Springwater council is expected to vote on whether to support or reject the plan at its Oct. 15 meeting.
In addition to the Springwater lands, Barrie is also seeking 457 hectares from Oro-Medonte.
