Mayor Alex Nuttall visited The Rotary Club of Barrie to present a detailed update on the City’s ongoing progress and major capital initiatives. He began by recognizing the Rotary Club of Barrie’s deep and lasting influence on the community, noting that many of Barrie’s most valued amenities and partnerships trace back to Rotary leadership. The Mayor emphasized that Rotarians remain central to the city’s identity and long-term vision.
A key focus of his address was the City’s financial turnaround. Over the past three years, Barrie has reduced debt by $85 million, significantly increased reserves, and shifted from a negative net financial position to a positive one. The City has also maintained four consecutive years of 0% increases to core operating budgets and is now positioned to achieve an AAA credit rating. This strengthened financial footing is enabling major infrastructure and community projects that had been stalled for years.
Mayor Nuttall also highlighted notable improvements in public safety, downtown revitalization, and infrastructure planning. Police presence has been restored, daily maintenance and BIA support have increased, and the number of encampments has been reduced dramatically. Traffic-calming investments continue to expand, funded in part by speed-camera revenue and a capital surcharge that has supported infrastructure growth without adding debt. Economic development has accelerated as well, supported by a concierge service for large projects and more than $50 million in provincial funding to open new industrial lands.
Looking ahead, Barrie is preparing for several transformative developments. The new South Barrie Recreation Centre is under construction, the YMCA is progressing, and long-awaited facilities such as Fire Station #6 are now complete. Lakehead University and Georgian College expansions are set to open in 2026, and additional downtown projects are expected to spark further growth, including a planned hotel and a forthcoming “game changer” development soon to be announced. Marshall Green closed the meeting by thanking the Mayor for his leadership and for sharing these impactful updates with the Club.