Kawartha Lakes calls for better consultation on proposed high-speed rail plan

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: Concerns from farmers and rural residents took centre stage, at the Tuesday, April 7th Committee of the Whole meeting, as councillors signalled their opposition to the proposed ALTO high-speed rail project, in its current form.

A memorandum, from Deputy Mayor Tracy Richardson, highlighted growing frustration within the agricultural community, over what many see as a limited and inaccessible consultation process. Council supported a resolution, to formally oppose the project, while also calling for expanded, in-person consultation opportunities within the municipality.

“The message we’re hearing is clear,” said Deputy Mayor Richardson. “Our agricultural community feels left out of the process, and they deserve meaningful opportunities to be heard.”

The resolution reflects broader concerns, raised by the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus, which has criticized the proposal for including only a single stop in Eastern Ontario, a model some critics say benefits urban centres while placing pressure on rural communities and agricultural lands.

Adding to those concerns, local resident Laurie Reynolds addressed council, during a deputation, outlining what she described as significant gaps in communication and consultation by ALTO.

“There has been a lack of direct communication with residents in Kawartha Lakes,” Ms. Reynolds told council. “People, who may be most affected, are still trying to understand what this project actually means for their land and their livelihoods.”

In her deputation to council, Ms. Reynolds raised concerns about the potential division of agricultural properties and rural communities, if the rail line proceeds, as well as the broader impact on farmland. She also pointed to recent amendments to Bill C-15 which, she said, could increase the federal government’s ability to expropriate land for the project.

“Food security should be paramount,” she said. “We need to carefully consider whether the benefits of this project outweigh the long-term loss of productive farmland.”

Ms. Reynolds urged council to formally oppose the project, a position which ultimately aligned with the recommendation brought forward by Deputy Mayor Tracy Richardson.

The current consultation process, largely conducted online, has created barriers for many rural residents and agricultural producers. Council is now requesting ALTO provide more accessible, in-person engagement opportunities, locally, before advancing any decisions.

Community reaction to the proposed rail line remains mixed.

Local farmer, Brian McBride supported council’s stance, citing concerns about land use. “We’re not against development, but farmland is a finite resource,” he said. “Once it’s gone, it’s gone.”

Others see potential in improved transportation links. Lindsay resident Sabrina Holt said, high-speed rail could offer economic benefits. “Better connectivity could be a game changer,” she said. “But only if rural communities are part of the planning.”

Some residents remain cautious. “There are a lot of unknowns,” said, Omemee-area resident, Jason Clarke. “More information, especially in-person, would help people understand what’s really at stake. Now, there’s a lot on social media, and that’s not always accurate.”

Council’s recommendation involves forwarding its position to federal officials, including: the Prime Minister, the Minister of Transport, and the local Member of Parliament. It will be considered for final approval at an upcoming regular council meeting.

In the meantime, residents are being encouraged to participate in the consultation process, before the Friday, April 24th deadline. Meanwhile, the municipality continues to advocate for a more balanced approach which reflects the needs of rural and agricultural communities.