The Ontario government is investing $100,000 in North Kawartha and Havelock-Belmont-Methuen to strengthen local emergency preparedness.
The funding, delivered through the Community Emergency Preparedness Grant, will support upgrades to infrastructure and equipment aimed at improving response during emergencies.
Peterborough-Kawartha MPP Dave Smith said the investment responds to challenges highlighted during the March 2025 ice storm.
“This investment is a direct response to those challenges… we are making sure our residents are never left in the dark again,” Smith said.
North Kawartha will receive $50,000 to enhance communication systems and field operations, including new radios, a backup generator and equipment for road clearing.
Mayor Carolyn Amyotte welcomed the funding.
“This funding will enable us to be better prepared for any challenges in the future,” she said.
Havelock-Belmont-Methuen will also receive $50,000 to install a permanent backup generator at the community centre, allowing it to function as an emergency shelter during outages.
Mayor Jim Martin said the upgrade will ensure the facility can serve as a central gathering point during emergencies.
“Our government is strengthening the readiness of local communities,” said Jill Dunlop, noting the program helps protect families across the province.
Since launching in 2023, the grant program has provided $15 million to more than 300 communities across Ontario.
