September 2025

Vol. 3, Edition 7

The Monthly Update

Welcome to The Monthly Update.


The monthly e-newsletter is a great way to stay informed about council decisions, programs, services, and other types of information relevant to the Town of Gravenhurst.


Click the button below and sign up to receive future editions in your e-mail inbox.

Message from the Mayor

As I indicated in my last note to you, work has started on the 2026 budget.


Part of that exercise involves you.


We want to know what you think should be budget priorities for the year ahead.


You can share your thoughts by visiting our budget page on Engage Gravenhurst. Our latest newsletter includes a link to the page.


Later in the fall, we'll have the draft budget ready for you to review. There will also be opportunities for you to comment. Please see the budget page on Engage Gravenhurst for details.


In other news, we had lots going on in September.


It was a pleasure to attend the Terry Fox Run and the 10th annual Ryde Community Co-op Seniors Fair. Both events were well organized.


I was also delighted to take part in the 75th anniversary of the Gravenhurst Seniors Centre. This organization does such terrific work in our community. It was an honour to be a part of such a special day.


This past weekend, we had the Gravenhurst Autumn Arts Tour. I want to commend everyone who played a role in making the tour possible. Clearly, we have some incredibly talented artists and crafts people in our community.


Also, this past Saturday we had our first Coffee with Council drop-in event. I want to thank everyone who stopped by the Terry Fox Auditorium at the Centennial Centre for a visit. It was great to see you and I know some good conversations took place.


Our latest newsletter contains a variety of information we hope you find useful. As always, thank you for showing an interest.


We look forward to updating you again next month.


Until then, please take care.


Heidi Lorenz,

Mayor.

Have your say! What should be budget priorities for 2026?

Draft budget consultation has started.


We want to hear what you think should be budget priorities for the year ahead.


Please visit Engage Gravenhurst to share your thoughts.

Locals recognized for their assistance during fire

On Sept. 16, the Town of Gravenhurst formally thanked two local men - Craig Howard and Jim Davis - for their assistance during a large brush fire in August. Fire Chief Jared Cayley (from left) and Fire Prevention Officer Kyle Steele (far right) present certificates to Craig Howard (left) and Jim Davis. Watch the presentation.

Gravenhurst Terry Fox Run

Mayor Heidi Lorenz and Councillor Erin Strength joined local residents for the Terry Fox Run in Gravenhurst on Sunday, Sept. 14. The event was based at the Centennial Centre. Participants raised more than $10,000 for cancer research. Learn more about the event.

Second World War ended 80 years ago

On Sunday, Sept. 14, Councillor Peter Johnston was joined by members of council and special guests at Bethune Memorial House to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. Councillor Johnston brought greetings on behalf Mayor Lorenz and council.

10th annual Seniors' Fair

Mayor Heidi Lorenz attended the 10th annual Seniors' Fair at the Ryde Community Co-op on Friday, Sept. 19. Mayor Lorenz visited with residents and exhibitors, including local Rotarians, who were on hand promoting the Gravenhurst Health Hub project. Learn more about the project. Learn more about the co-op.

Doors Open

Thank you to everyone who came out for Doors Open on Sept. 20 to celebrate Gravenhurst's rich heritage sites and municipal properties. It was a beautiful day in "Sawdust City." Kudos to the Gravenhurst Municipal Heritage Committee, Ontario Heritage Trust, and Doors Open Ontario for hosting this wonderful event.

Gravenhurst Seniors Centre celebrates 75 years

The Gravenhurst Seniors Centre celebrated its 75th anniversary on Sept. 21. Mayor Heidi Lorenz and members of council were in attendance to help mark the occasion. Mayor Lorenz brought greetings and presented the organization with a certificate in recognition of the milestone. Learn more about the centre.

Applications now open for 2026 community grants

The Town of Gravenhurst is now accepting applications for two key community funding opportunities: The Terence Haight Financial Assistance Program and the Community Improvement Program.


See our news release to learn more.

New art display features work by Norman Robert Catchpole

The Town of Gravenhurst and the Muskoka Discovery Centre are pleased to announce there is a new display of artwork at the municipal office (3-5 Pineridge Gate).


The new display features work by Norman Robert Catchpole.


See our news release to learn more.

Applications now open for Gravenhurst Community Awards

The Town of Gravenhurst is pleased to announce it is now accepting nominations for Community Spirit Awards and Lions Sports Hall of Fame Awards.


See our news release to learn more.  

McPherson Street property owner receives Built Heritage Award

On Sept. 17, Paul Cook, Municipal Heritage Committee vice-chair, presented Dawn Dawson at 325 McPherson St. with a Built Heritage Award. Dawson has lovingly restored and modernized her property while showcasing the house's heritage architecture and cultivating heritage infused gardens. The Municipal Heritage Committee developed the awards program to recognize those property owners who are enthusiastic in maintaining, replicating, or revitalizing heritage assets in Gravenhurst. Learn more about the awards.

Splash pad closes for the season

The splash pad at 1111 Bay St. closed for the season on Sept. 15.


We hope everyone enjoyed using the splash pad this year.


Watch our website and social media channels next spring for details on the reopening.

Bay and Beyond project information

The Bay and Beyond infrastructure project has resumed for another season.


Looking for information about the work that's taking place?


Check out the project page.

Supporting our community

We dig Gravenhurst is a Town of Gravenhurst initiative designed to support and enhance the experience of businesses, visitors, and residents during the Bay and Beyond infrastructure project.


Learn more about what we are up to and how you can help.

When it comes to staying connected with the Town of Gravenhurst you've got options.


Visit our website to learn more.

Gravenhurst Council Highlights

Learn what happened at the latest meeting.


Visit our website to review Gravenhurst Council Highlights.

Planning Council - Sept. 23, 2025

Planning Council met Sept. 23, 2025.


Watch the meeting.

How to invite members of council to your event

Would you like members of council to attend your event?


Submit your request through our website.

Staffer achieves CMM1 designation

On Sept. 16, council congratulated Deputy Treasurer Theresa Trott on obtaining her CMM1 (Certified Municipal Manager 1) designation. Presenting her certificate is Director of Finance Wayne Campbell and Mayor Heidi Lorenz. Way to go, Theresa. We appreciate all you do.

Town employee earns CBCO designation

On Sept. 16, council congratulated Deputy Chief Building Official Matthew Wale on achieving his Certified Building Code Official (CBCO) designation through the Ontario Building Officials Association. Presenting his certificate is Melissa Halford, director of development services (from left); Andy Jones, chief building official; and Mayor Heidi Lorenz. Well done, Matthew. And thank you for your service to the Town of Gravenhurst.

Lottery licensing - know the rules

Are you planning to hold a lottery or raffle in our community?


Before you proceed, check out our website to learn more about lottery licensing regulations.

Have you got your short-term rental licence?

Do you operate a short-term rental?


The Town of Gravenhurst's STR Licensing Program requires that you have a licence.


Visit our website to learn more.

See a problem? Let us know

If you see playground equipment or other forms of town infrastructure needing repair, please let us know so we can take the proper steps to address the issue.


Visit our website to learn more.

Community kiosks

Check out our community kiosks for town information.


Find them at the following locations: Gravenhurst Post Office, Gravenhurst Public Library, Gull Lake Rotary Park, Kinsmen Park, Muskoka Wharf.

Join our team!

Looking for employment? Consider a career in the municipal sector.


See our website to learn what opportunities are available.

Sign up today

Are you signed up for Community Connect?


Community Connect is a secure platform that allows residents to share critical information about their household, helping the Gravenhurst Fire Department respond more efficiently and effectively.


Learn more about Community Connect.

Register with Voyent Alert

The Town of Gravenhurst and all other municipalities in the District of Muskoka use the VoyentAlert! application to send emergency notifications to subscribers.


To register and learn more about Voyent Alert!, visit their registration page.

Getting married in Ontario? Visit our website

Getting married in Ontario?


The Town of Gravenhurst offers ServiceOntario's online marriage licence applications.


It's quick, easy, and convenient.


See our website to learn more.

Did you know? We perform civil ceremonies

The Town of Gravenhurst has three wedding commissioners who can perform civil ceremonies that take place within the boundaries of the municipality.


See our website to learn more.

Our Community Improvement Program can help

Hey property and business owners.


Looking to make some improvements?


Check out our Community Improvement Program and find out how we can help you. Applications are being accepted until Dec. 15 at 4 p.m.


Learn more about CIP.

Registration is open for fall recreation programs.


Visit our website to learn more.

Looking for public skating? There are programs at the Graeme Murray Arena for only $2 per person.


Check out the website for details.

Animal Services

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The Town of Gravenhurst is a pet-friendly community.


Our Animal Services team works to ensure the safety of people and pets in Gravenhurst.


For information about dog licensing, animal control services, and more see our website.


Visit our website to learn more.

Community Calendar

Looking for something to do in Gravenhurst?


Make our website your first stop for information.


Visit our calendar for great ideas.

Recreation

We have a variety of recreation options available in Gravenhurst.


In some instances, these opportunities are offered through the town and in other cases they are provided by various organizations.


Visit our website to learn more.

Opera House

Stay in touch with the Gravenhurst Opera House.


Built in 1901, the opera house is a focal point for great entertainment.


Check out the opera house website to learn more about upcoming performances.


Visit the opera house website.

Gravenhurst Public Library

The Gravenhurst Public Library is a great spot to access reading material, movies, programs, entertainment, and so much more.


Located at 180 Sharpe St. W., the library is open Monday to Saturday.


For hours and more information, visit the library website.

Planning and Building

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Looking for planning and building information?


We are here to help.


Visit our website to learn about the town's official plan, zoning bylaw, building permits, and much more.


Visit our website.

Gravenhurst Fire Department

The Gravenhurst Fire Department provides fire protection services for the community.


Please call 9-1-1 if the department's assistance is required in an emergency.


Read a message from the chief.


Visit our website to learn more about the department.

Council contact

Members of council are your representatives.


They are elected to a four-year council term.


Visit our website to learn more about council members and how you can reach them.

Meeting agenda information

Find meeting agendas at Gravenhurst.ca.


Visit our website to learn more.


You can also subscribe to receive notice when new agendas are available for review.


Subscribe to agendas.

Watch our meetings online

Did you know our council meetings are available on our YouTube channel?


By watching the meetings, you can hear council and staff discussion on a variety of topics and stay better informed about municipal business.


Visit our livestream portal.

District of Muskoka

The District of Muskoka provides important services to our community.


Governing the district is a 23-member council.


To learn more about the district and what it does visit the district website. 

Ontario Provincial Police

Policing in Gravenhurst is provided by the Ontario Provincial Police.


If you require police assistance for an emergency, please dial 9-1-1.


For non-emergency matters, call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.


Minor non-emergency matters can also be reported through the OPP website.

211 Ontario

211 Ontario is a free service that connects people to a variety of resources.


To reach 211 Ontario, simply dial 2-1-1 on your phone. 211 is also available by text and e-mail.


Learn more by visiting the 211 website.