Simcoe County Council is voicing serious concerns about the province’s proposed annexation and mapping changes involving the City of Barrie.
County officials say the current plan was developed without enough regard for regional input and could negatively affect the local economy, environment, and future tax revenues.
Council emphasized that while they support growth, housing, and job creation, the annexation plan strays far from the original goal of finding a balanced, “win-win” solution. Any lands developed within Barrie’s boundary would provide no direct tax revenue to the County or townships, even though County residents could be impacted by the changes. Officials estimate that strategic development of County lands along the Highway 400 corridor could bring 22,000 jobs and $85 million in annual tax revenue – funding that supports services like hospitals, education, and the airport.
County representatives also pointed out that studies show Barrie already has enough employment land for the next 20 years, while Simcoe County is facing shortages in its northern market. They argue the current proposal threatens long-term revenues and limits economic opportunities across the region.
“This unfortunately is not an issue only impacting the municipalities involved; it affects every taxpayer in Simcoe County,” the County stated, adding that more balanced negotiations with the City and Townships could still be possible.
County Council is calling on Minister Flack and the Province to consider its concerns, along with public input and local needs, before making any final decisions on the annexation plan.
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