There were few dull moments at Peterborough City Hall over the past year as Mayor Jeff Leal and his city council colleagues faced considerable criticism from taxpayers over a number of decisions.
Speaking to the development of housing in particular, Mayor Leal admits some plan approvals “were controversial.” He references the 17-storey residential building approved for a Hunter Street East site as an example, but quickly adds building up is the way to go in terms of development that the city can afford to service.
As for redeveloped Bonnerworth Park and its related 14 pickleball courts, Mayor Leal says attacks on him and his family during the months prior were inexcusable, but the end result is a revitalized community space.
Meanwhile, Mayor Leals terms the recently-approved 2026 budget “a status quo budget, acknowledging its related 6.56 tax hike “is still too much.” He says any return to the much lower tax hikes of the past will require some very hard decisions.
On a more positive note, Mayor Leal says 2025 saw major road projects completed, including the rehabilitation of Brealey Drive, and the opening of the Miskin Law Community Complex.
(Written by: Paul Rellinger)
