LOBA logo colour

NewsFlash

March 21, 2025

LOBA Advocates for Shoreline Protection in Township Official Plan Review


LOBA is actively participating in the Township’s Official Plan review process. In the two consultation sessions to date, we have advocated for a balanced approach to development that protects the natural shoreline. Township Council recently received a report from their consultants and LOBA was glad to see the highlighting of the following issues of importance to LOBA’s members:


  • Value in a lack of development, an undeveloped environment, or untouched nature that seasonal and year-round residents appreciate.

  • Clearer policies to address redevelopment and additions to existing cottages within waterfront area.


  • Need for strong policies which encourage the preservation of shoreline vegetation and tools to implement and enforce best management practices.


  • Standards for small- and large-scale resort development in waterfront areas to encourage economic and environmental sustainability.


  • Additional residential units in rural or built-up communities which offer “gentle density” to avoid rural sprawl and make efficient use of available municipal (e.g., water and wastewater) services.

LOBA will continue to participate in the Township’s Official Plan consultations. Any input from members would be gratefully received at info@loba.ca.

Read LOBA's letter to the Township>





Have you read the

Spring 2025

Current Connection newsletter?


You'll find great articles on Septics, Turtles, Wildfire Preparedness, Greetings from District Chair Jeff Lehman and Mayor Terry Glover, and an update from LOBA President Paul Gleeson.


Read the issue>


Check out previous issues>




Water Levels Watch

With the advent of Spring and melting snow, it's time to be aware of water levels.


The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has added a Flood Watch bulletin within the area of the North Branch of the Muskoka River and on the Moon River (Bala Reach). The bulletin is in effect until Friday, March 28, 2025.


The Township of Lake of Bays is primarily within the Muskoka Watershed and a Flood Watch means that a potential for flooding on these watersheds exists. 


Know what to do before, during, and after a flood to stay safe. Learn more on Ontario's Floods page.


For the latest information on flooding forecasts, visit Ontario's Flood Forecasting and Warning Program.


For more information, please read the full Watershed Conditions Statement.



More Reading and Information


Extreme weather and climate change from the District of Muskoka>


Huntsville and Lake of Bays partner on Weather Engine App>


Muskoka's spring flood outlook>

From the Township of Lake of Bays:


Policy update approved for purchasing road allowance containing private roads or driveways - At its meeting on March 11, 2025, the Township of Lake of Bays Council approved updates to Policy AD-2.10 – Road Allowance Closure Procedures (containing a private road/driveway). These updates are part of a comprehensive review that aligns this policy with recent changes to related programs and ensures greater clarity and fairness in procedures for property owners.

Key highlights of the update:

Housekeeping Amendments: References to the repealed Roads Licence Agreement Program have been removed from the policy.


Reduction in Land Acquisition Fees: The land acquisition fee for purchasing road allowances containing private roads or driveways has been reduced from $1.00 per square foot to $0.28 per square foot.


Moratorium Lifted: The 60-day moratorium issued February 11, 2025, for the Road Purchasing Program has been withdrawn and property owners can now apply to purchase Township-owned road allowances that are being used or intended to be used as private roads or driveways.


Property owners interested in purchasing a Township-owned road allowance containing a private road or driveway can begin the application process by arranging for a pre-consultation with the Township’s Land & Agreements Coordinator. To review the updated policy and the application, visit Lakeofbays.on.ca


Relevant Documents

A.D-2.9 Road Allowance containing a Private Road/Driveway Closure Procedures

For more information, contact: engage@lakeofbays.on.ca


LOBA Involvement

LOBA representatives met with Township staff and elected officials and lobbied on behalf of our members on this issue. Read LOBA's January 13 letter to the Township in response to the Future of the Roads License Agreement Program report.


Other Township of Lake of Bays news


Lake of Bays Township Library 2024 Annual Report>


Lake of Bays Township Library celebrates two major achievements>


Lake of Bays first responders receive equipment grant from Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation>


ROM SPECIAL OFFER


Save 15% off ROM Admission

Buy your tickets online and enter promo code: LOBA


See What's On at the ROM

Do you have family or friends who would like to keep up to date with LOBA NewsFlashes?


Direct them to the LOBA Homepage

and click the E-NEWS button on the right of the page

Sign up for NewsFlashes

Reading, Interesting Links and Events


SPIN THE LAKES CYCLING TOUR RETURNS FOR 2025: Read the story at DopplerOnline>


DISTRICT SHARES RESULTS OF FIRST WEEK OF CLEAR GARBAGE BAG PROGRAM: Read the story at DopplerOnline>


WHAT'S IN THAT SIP OF LAKE WATER?: Read the story at MuskokaRegion>


MUSKOKA CONSERVANCY NEWSLETTER: Read the Winter 2025 issue>


FRIENDS OF THE MUSKOKA WATERSHED: Read the March 2025 Under the Surface newsletter>


MUSKOKA WATERSHED COUNCIL: Read the 2024 Annual Report>



photo by Paul Madder

2023 photo contest submission

Through education, advocacy and engagement, our mission is to foster a

healthy natural environment, responsible waterfront development, a thriving community, and a Lake of Bays shared respectfully and safely by all.

Website    News    Programs    Contact    Advertise

Lake of Bays Association

Join us on Facebook and Instagram
Facebook  Instagram  

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here