Barrie and Innisfil are receiving funding from the Ontario government to help cover costs related to cleanup and emergency response following the severe ice storm on March 28, 2025.
The province is providing up to $26,559,000 in assistance through its Municipal Ice Storm Assistance program. Barrie is eligible for up to $26,194,000 in provincial assistance, while Innisfil will receive $365,000. The amounts reflect eligible costs after cost-sharing.
The funding is part of a $90-million initiative launched to support municipalities affected by the storm.
In a media release, Barrie–Springwater–Oro-Medonte MPP Doug Downey said the funding will help address the significant impacts the ice storm left on Barrie.
“The City of Barrie faced some of the most significant impacts from the 2025 ice storm,” he said.
“This funding will help support the cost of the cleanup efforts and ensure that Barrie is able to rebuild stronger than ever.”
Barrie–Innisfil MPP Andrea Khanjin said the funding will support recovery efforts in Innisfil.
“The impact of the ice storm was experienced by the Town of Innisfil community members first hand, as families faced power outages, damaged property and infrastructure, and disrupted daily life,” she said.
“This investment indicates our government’s commitment to providing storm recovery resources, building necessary reinforcements, and ensuring resilience and emergency preparedness.”
The storm caused widespread damage across central and eastern Ontario, knocking out power to nearly 400,000 homes and businesses. In Barrie and Innisfil, it led to major tree and property damage, downed hydro lines, prolonged outages, service disruptions and pressure on infrastructure.
Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall thanked the province for the support, stating the funding will help cover cleanup costs, restore infrastructure, and support recovery efforts following the storm.
“This support will be critical in helping our city cover cleanup costs, restore infrastructure, and ensure that Barrie can rebuild stronger,” he said.
He also thanked those who responded to the storm.
“I also want to recognize and thank everyone who has worked tirelessly in response to this severe weather event — our city staff, first responders, and community partners who stepped up to support residents through challenging circumstances. Your dedication and commitment have made a real difference,” he said.
Innisfil Deputy Mayor Kenneth Fowler echoed Nuttall’s comments, saying the funding will make a difference.
“The provincial government’s funding provides significant financial relief to the town, and therefore the taxpayers who have been impacted by this exceptionally severe storm,” he said.
“Beyond the monetary cost, it took its toll in ways that will be felt for years to come.”
The Ontario government introduced municipal and business ice storm assistance programs in June 2025 to help affected communities recover.
