For Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall, 2025 was a year defined by major decisions and significant change.
Speaking with Compass News, Nuttall reflected on the year and the key issues that shaped his agenda. Addressing homelessness encampments and connecting unhoused residents with supports topped his list of priorities.
“A major focus has been cleaning up encampments and getting help to people who are struggling — those dealing with addiction and serious mental health challenges,” he said.
In September, Nuttall declared a state of emergency to address the city’s growing homelessness encampments, citing escalating health, safety and environmental risks. The move followed high-profile incidents linked to encampments, including a double homicide near Victoria Street and Anne Street South and elevated E. coli levels in Dyment’s Creek, which flows into Kempenfelt Bay.
Since the state of emergency was declared, most encampments have been shut down and cleaned up, including those along Mulcaster Street, at Audrey Milligan Park and Pond, and near Victoria and Anne streets. In November, city officials said the encampment population had dropped from 111 people to between 45 and 50, with many receiving assistance and support through local services.
“We’ve seen a lot of very positive data showing people are getting the help they need to get back on their feet,” he said.
“At the same time, we’re seeing strong results in the number of tents being removed. There’s been real progress, and a lot to be thankful for.”
The state of emergency will remain in effect until all encampments are removed.
On Dec. 11, the Ontario government passed Bill 76, the Barrie–Oro-Medonte–Springwater Boundary Adjustment Act, 2025. The legislation transfers 1,216 hectares from the Township of Springwater to Barrie, along with 457 hectares from the Township of Oro-Medonte. A total of 1,673 hectares will be officially added to Barrie’s boundaries on Jan. 1, 2026.
Nuttall said the boundary expansion, particularly the work completed over the past year, positions the city for long-term success.
“Completing the land request so we can attract better-paying jobs is a major accomplishment for this council,” he said.
“A lot of time and effort went into this work at city hall, and I’m grateful to everyone who helped make it happen.”
While portions of the newly acquired lands will be used for residential development, Nuttall said expanding industrial development and employment opportunities remains a top priority.
“Our team worked closely with the provincial government to help them understand how critical new jobs are for our community,” he said.
“The long-term goal is to make Barrie a place where people don’t have to spend hours on the highway commuting to Toronto just to earn a living. We want to bring more jobs and more opportunities closer to home for our residents.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Nuttall said he is optimistic about continued progress and major projects moving forward across the city.
“There’s so much to be excited about – from the Lakehead University STEM hub opening, to Georgian College downtown, the start of construction on the new Sea Cadets facility, continue the progress on the performing arts centre, and more. There really are a lot of great things happening in Barrie.”