News

The Township of Lake of Bays is pleased to announce the appointment of Geoff Carleton as the new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). With over 20 years of municipal experience, Geoff Carleton brings a wealth of expertise and a solid history of delivering effective and efficient municipal services to his new role as CAO, which he officially begins on March 10, 2025.

Around 2:42 p.m. on February 15, 2025, the Huntsville/Lake of Bays Fire Fighters responded to a structure fire on Grainger Grove Road in Lake of Bays. Crews from Station 3 Hillside, Station 2 Port Cunnington, Station 4 Baysville and Station 1 Huntsville were dispatched.

The Township of Lake of Bays invites residents and visitors to join in celebrating Heritage Week from February 17 to 23 by exploring the rich history of Lake of Bays.

At the heart of the Township's efforts to keep local history alive is the Heritage Advisory Committee, a team of seven members dedicated to preserving and maintaining the Township's built and natural heritage features.

At the February 11th Council meeting, the Township of Lake of Bays proudly recognized and applauded two incredible achievements by the public library.

Update: The Baysville Library has reopened following a precautionary closure earlier today due to a small propane leak. The issue has been resolved, and the facility is now safe for staff and visitors to return during regular operating hours.

Following a period of public consultation and feedback, the Township of Lake of Bays Council repealed the Roads License Agreement (RLA) By-law on February 11, 2025. At the same meeting, Council adopted a new Unassumed Road Improvement By-law focusing on procedures and policies for those who want to build new driveways or access roads on municipal land.

At a Special Council Meeting on January 28, 2025, the Township of Lake of Bays Council approved the 2025 Operating and Capital Budget. This budget ensures property owners in Lake of Bays will experience the lowest dollar-amount tax increase compared to other Muskoka municipalities. Additionally, the Township continues to maintain the second-lowest overall residential tax rate in the District of Muskoka.

On January 26, 2025, the Huntsville/Lake of Bays Fire Fighters responded to a structure fire on Menominee Lake Road in Lake of Bays. Fire crews acted quickly to contain the fire and prevent the flames from spreading further. Although an adjacent garage sustained damage to its siding, firefighters were able to extinguish the flames effectively. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, and the total damage is estimated to be at least $200,000. 

Proposed by-laws will come before the Township of Lake of Bays Council for consideration at its regular meeting to be held in a hybrid setting (in-person and electronically), on the 11th day of February, 2025, at the hour of 9:00 a.m. o’clock, in the morning. 

At the January 14, 2025, Council Meeting, Council approved amendments to the Roads License Agreement (RLA) Program, effectively repealing the current by-law. These proposed changes, detailed in the staff report titled “Future of the Roads License Agreement Program,” will undergo a public review and comment period before being presented for final approval at the February 11, 2025, Council Meeting.