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Beginning in September 2025, this project will redevelop a 780-metre section of Muskoka Road 117 through the Community of Baysville. In addition to upgrading the existing road surface, the project will improve traffic flow and enhance safety for both pedestrians and drivers through traffic calming features, with a modern roundabout and pedestrian crossings. It will also add active transportation infrastructure, including a new multi-use trail and a sidewalk. 

“Muskoka’s main streets are not just roads, they’re destinations. Through this new program the District is investing in safety and better roads, but also in our small businesses and in quality of life. By working with municipalities and residents, we can design main streets that reflect the needs and character of each community,” said District Chair Jeff Lehman. 

This project responds directly to community feedback gathered through two public surveys and multiple engagement sessions during the development of the Lake of Bays Community Improvement Plan. This investment also reflects a broader goal, which is to develop consistent, high quality main street experiences across Muskoka. 

“We’ve heard from so many people about their concerns with that road, and this project is all about addressing them. We’re making the entrance to Baysville safer and more welcoming while keeping the village’s natural charm front and centre. A better, more inviting main street means more people stopping in, supporting the shops and services we already have for years to come, and helping new ones take root. A Baysville where locals feel proud, businesses thrive, and visitors can’t help but stop and stay awhile,” said Mayor Glover. 

The Baysville project marks the launch of Muskoka Main Streets initiative, opening the door to future collaborations with other area municipalities to build safer, more vibrant communities across Muskoka. 

For project details and to stay updated, visit: www.engagemuskoka.ca/mr117-baysville 

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• Protecting the shoreline by maintaining native plant species near the water
• Improving a swimming area on the west side of the park
• Increasing seating throughout the park
• Opening sightlines to make the water more visible from the park

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These areas are now clearly marked as designated slow zones to encourage reduced speeds and heightened driver awareness in areas with regular pedestrian and student activity.

The Township would like to remind all drivers to observe posted speed limits and stay alert when traveling through school zones, especially during pick-up and drop-off times.

Thank you for doing your part to protect the youngest residents.

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Event Details:

During this Public Meeting, participants will have the opportunity to share their perspectives on proposed changes.

• Date: June 24, 2025.
• Time: 1:00 p.m.
• Location: Municipal Office in Dwight, or online via Zoom.

What’s Changing?

These changes apply only to off-street parking, such as driveways, parking lots, and private property.

• Allowing Off-Site Parking: The updated rules will clarify that businesses and public buildings can provide some or all of their required parking off-site if the parking lot is within a certain distance and a formal Parking Agreement is in place between the properties.
• Flexibility for Reductions: Township staff will now be able to approve parking reductions of less than 25%, a decision that only Council could make before. Council will still be responsible for approving reductions of 25% or more, and a Parking Justification Report will remain a requirement for any reduction.
• Cash-in-Lieu of Parking: An option is being introduced, allowing developers to contribute to a fund in place of meeting parking space requirements. The collected funds will be allocated to municipal parking infrastructure.
• Updated Parking Space Requirements: The amendments reduce the minimum number of parking spaces required for a variety of business and uses, including multiple dwellings, resorts, restaurants, retail establishments, childcare facilities, and recreational properties, among others.

How to Participate?

The Township wants to hear from you! There are several ways to share your feedback:

• Attend the Meeting in Person: Council Chambers, Municipal Office, 1012 Dwight Beach Road, Dwight.
• Join Online: Attend and speak at the meeting via Zoom.
• Submit Written Comments: Share your written feedback with our planning department

For detailed information about the proposed changes, along with the Zoom link, comment form, staff reports, presentation, and full notices, please visit our project page at engage.lakeofbays.on.ca.

“Our goal is to support businesses and their growth by making parking requirements more flexible and giving people more options. These changes to off-street parking are based on extensive public input, including surveys, info sessions, and conversations, and are a direct response to what we’ve heard from the community.” – April Best-Sararas, Director of Planning Services.

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Whether you’re looking to revitalize your storefront, do structural upgrades, or increase your property’s appeal, financial support is available to help bring your vision to life. You may be eligible for funding to assist with:

• Encouraging expansion and diversification of existing businesses
• Encouraging beautification and visual appeal
• Encouraging housing development
• Encouraging new tourism and business activity
• Foster public art

These initiatives are designed to revitalize properties in a way that enhances the public realm and contributes to the overall vitality of the four vibrant settlement areas—Baysville, Dorset, Dwight, and Hillside. Take the first step towards turning your plans into reality! To discover more about the CIP and how it can help you achieve your goals while contributing to the Township’s ongoing growth and success, visit Lakeofbays.on.ca/CIP.

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For 2025, the tax rate increase is set at 5.99%, following several Council deliberations that successfully reduced the initial proposed increase by 2%. As a result, property owners will pay an additional $12.72 for every $100,000 of assessed property value.

Over the past decade, the Township has achieved an average annual tax rate increase of just 2.65%, maintaining long-term affordability while meeting community needs. The increase this year addresses deferred infrastructure and service needs that have accumulated over the past decade.

To balance the 2025 operating and capital budget, Council approved $4,061,108 in debt financing and transferred $2,149,087 from reserves. An earlier financial and asset management review in December of 2023 confirmed the Township’s strong financial position to manage and incur new debt. With decreasing interest rates from the Bank of Canada, the timing for borrowing allows the Township to tackle important projects, keep reserves for future needs, and deliver an affordable budget for Lake of Bays residents.

The approved budget focuses on public safety enhancements, infrastructure improvements, and upgrades to community spaces. Notable investments include:

• Fire Services: A pumper truck ($650,000) and extrication tools for Baysville ($70,000).
• Roads and Infrastructure: $2.2 million for road construction and upgrades, with a placeholder allocation for a joint project with the District of Muskoka to upgrade the entrance to Baysville via Muskoka Road 117 (final costs and external funding still to be confirmed).
• Community Facilities: $1.7 million for the renovation of the Dwight Community Centre and Library over the next two years, $250,000 for Glenmount Dock improvements, and $90,000 for a chair lift at the Port Cunnington Community/Seniors Centre.

For a complete breakdown of the 2025 operating and capital budget, the full document will be available once finalized at Lakeofbays.on.ca/Budget.

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