The following is a Christmas message to local constituents from Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall
As we approach the end of 2023, marking the end of my first official year as your mayor, I am filled with joy and gratitude for the vibrant community that is Barrie.
I hope that every resident of Barrie can enjoy time with family and friends over the next few weeks, and step into the new year refreshed and rejuvenated.
Council has had a busy but productive year, and I’m grateful for what our collaborative efforts have been able to accomplish in just a short time.
Considering that residents are continuing to face significant financial pressures due to inflation, council and staff have worked hard to deliver a budget in 2023 that focuses on affordability while maintaining the essential services our community needs to thrive. For the second consecutive year, we've successfully maintained a freeze of the city's operating budget heading into 2024, while investing in infrastructure to support our growing city.
Some of the highlights in the 2024 approved city budget include the property acquisition of a brand new recreation centre in south Barrie, a new splash pad at Heritage Park, and the construction of Fire Station 6.
This council has been making significant progress in addressing chronic homelessness in Barrie, a complex matter that needs to be handled with an abundance of compassion and care. In May of 2023, our city council approved funding of $1.65 million to support homelessness preventative initiatives in partnership with the County of Simcoe and local community partners.
This investment has already provided family reunification services, a warming and cooling centre for vulnerable residents looking for safe spaces to reprieve from the elements, the enhancement of meal and breakfast programs, and a pilot shuttle program that has resulted in the end of the prison release in downtown Barrie.
Ending the Central North Correctional Centre (CNCC) prisoner drop-off at Barrie's downtown bus terminal has been a priority of mine since stepping into the role as mayor in November of 2022. The launch of our pilot shuttle service has been able to assist approximately 100 individuals released from CNCC in returning home where they can connect with resources and support networks.
Earlier this year, city council green-lighted the new Ecological Offsetting initiative, a project that will prioritize tree planting throughout the city. These trees will be enhancing our local ecosystems, parks, and our beautiful waterfront for years to come.
As we welcome the new year, I invite you and your family to join me for my New Year's Eve Levee.
On Dec. 31, I will be hosting a free public skating event for the community at two locations, East Bayfield Community Centre from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Allandale Recreation Centre from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. It's a great way to embrace the winter season, ring in the new year, and enjoy the company of fellow Barrie residents.
Later that evening, I hope you're able to attend Barrie's Downtown New Year's Eve Countdown, with a special performance by the musical headliner, Big Wreck.
I want to take this time to extend my warmest wishes to each and every one of you for a Merry Christmas, a Happy Hanukkah, and a Happy New Year.
Sincerely,
Mayor Alex Nuttall
