The land compensation agreement between the City of Barrie and the Township of Springwater is now official.
According to a news release, the municipalities have formalized a deal setting out more than $22 million in payments from Barrie to Springwater for lands transferred under provincial boundary legislation.
Barrie officially assumed 1,216 hectares from Springwater effective Jan. 1, 2026, along with 457 hectares from the Township of Oro-Medonte. In 2023, Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall and city staff said they would seek to transfer lands from both municipalities to support future economic growth and housing needs.
The agreement, which builds on earlier discussions about expanding Barrie’s municipal boundary, outlines approximately $22 million in instalment payments to Springwater through 2030. An additional $850,000 over five years will support economic development initiatives.
Officials said the compensation reflects the value of the lands being transferred, as well as anticipated long-term municipal revenue impacts.
Springwater Mayor Jennifer Coughlin said the agreement ensures fair compensation for her township.
“The agreement with the City of Barrie ensures fair compensation for Springwater, supports future economic development, and positions our community for sustainable growth,” she said.
“It provides certainty for both municipalities and helps Springwater plan responsibly for the services and infrastructure.”
Coughlin told Compass News in December 2025 that it was not surprising the Ontario government supported the boundary adjustment.
“This wasn’t shocking at all,” she said.
“The Ontario government gave us the opportunity to reach a local solution — and Springwater was able to do that with Barrie. It was about working towards making sure there is mutual respect and prosperity for Springwater, Barrie and Oro-Medonte.”
Nuttall said the lands are vital to supporting job growth in the region and that collaboration with Springwater will benefit both municipalities.
“These lands are critical to supporting job creation and long-term economic growth for our region. Securing them ensures we can attract investment, create employment opportunities, and plan responsibly for the future,” he said.
“I want to commend Mayor Coughlin for her leadership in helping move this agreement forward. By working together, we have reached a solution that benefits both of our communities and strengthens our region as a whole.”
No timelines have been set for development on the newly transferred Barrie lands.
