Council reviews plan to support farmers and agri-business in Kawartha Lakes

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: A new roadmap designed to strengthen farms, food businesses, and rural communities, over the next five years, is moving one step closer to approval.

During a Committee of the Whole meeting, on Tuesday, April 7th, Kelly Maloney, Economic Development Officer – Agriculture, presented the Kawartha Lakes Agriculture and Food Action Plan 2026–2030, outlining a vision for a more resilient, connected, and investment-ready agricultural sector.

“This plan reflects what we heard clearly from the community,” Ms. Maloney told council. “Producers and agri-businesses are ready to grow and diversify, but they need the right conditions to make that happen.”

The plan is built on extensive consultation, involving input from more than 400 participants, through surveys, meetings, and industry events. It sets out five key priorities: enabling agri-business growth and investment, supporting business and value-added development, building a skilled workforce, investing in supportive infrastructure, and elevating the agriculture and food sector.

Agriculture continues to play a central role in the local economy, with more than 1,100 farms operating across approximately 278,000 acres. The sector generated over $216 million in farm receipts, in 2024, and contributes more than $426 million to the provincial economy.

In her presentation, Ms. Maloney emphasized, while the sector remains strong and diverse, it faces mounting pressures.

“There are real challenges, such as labour shortages, infrastructure gaps, and increasing development pressures on farmland,” she said. “At the same time, there are clear opportunities in local food, agri-tourism, and value-added production.”

Feedback, gathered through the consultation process, highlighted the need for improved infrastructure, including: better access to three-phase hydro, enhanced broadband and cellular service, and well-maintained rural roads. Participants also pointed to the importance of clearer and more efficient development approval processes.

The plan’s long-term vision sees the municipality becoming a place where agriculture can “grow with confidence,” supported by protection for farmland, strong infrastructure, and a well-connected local food system.

Committee members voiced support for the direction of the plan, which builds on previous action plans and continues a long-standing approach to agricultural development, since municipal amalgamation in 2001.

“This is about setting the stage for long-term success,” Ms. Maloney added. “It’s about making sure agriculture remains a cornerstone of our economy and our identity.”

Two recommendations related to the plan were carried at the meeting, on Tuesday, April 7th. The first, moved by Councillor Joyce and seconded by Councillor Ashmore, received the presentation. The second, moved by Councillor Ashmore and seconded by Deputy Mayor Richardson, recommends approval of the plan, as outlined in the staff report.

Both items will be brought forward for consideration, at an upcoming regular council meeting.

If approved, the plan will guide municipal efforts, in partnership with industry, organizations, and other levels of government. While most initiatives will be supported through existing economic development resources, larger projects may be considered through future budget processes.

Ms. Maloney noted, the cost of inaction could be significant for the community.

“Without coordinated effort, we risk losing farmland, missing investment opportunities, and weakening the local agricultural system,” she said. “This plan positions us to do the opposite, to grow stronger, more competitive, and more sustainable.”

Council is expected to make a final decision on the plan later this month.