Barrie Explores Library at the Northwest end to Support Underserved Communities and At-Risk Youth

Barrie Plans New Boutique Library Branch in Northwest

The City of Barrie is moving forward with plans to establish a boutique library branch in the city’s northwest, modelled after the successful Holly branch in the southwest. This initiative aims to address the lack of community services in the area and received unanimous support during the Finance and Responsible Governance Committee meeting last week.

Expanding Library Services to Underserved Areas

Councillors emphasized the importance of making library services accessible to youth and residents in underserved neighbourhoods. Mayor Alex Nuttall highlighted how proximity to library resources can reduce barriers and support at-risk youth. “This would be an excellent opportunity to provide library services to youth and young people who wouldn’t necessarily otherwise have access,” he stated.

Barrie currently operates three library locations: the downtown main branch, the Painswick branch in the southeast, and the Holly branch in the southwest. Deputy Mayor Robert Thomson, who introduced the motion, expressed optimism about replicating the Holly branch’s success in attracting visitors and improving accessibility in the northwest.

Strengthening Financial Oversight

The committee also approved an annual vendor billing audit to enhance financial oversight. A recent internal audit revealed no significant issues, but councillors stressed the importance of regular contract monitoring to prevent overcharges and ensure appropriate repayments.

Chief Administrative Officer Michael Prowse noted that departments are already reviewing vendor charges against contracts and intend to make the audits a permanent practice. “Our intention is to make this an ongoing annual exercise,” Prowse explained.

Tackling Stalled Construction Projects

The committee addressed the issue of stalled construction projects and unresolved building permits. A recent Supreme Court decision now requires municipalities to monitor open licenses, adding to staff responsibilities.

Barrie’s Chief Building Official Paul Evans explained that while the city can revoke permits after a year of inactivity, it cannot compel property owners to complete their projects. The city has implemented proactive measures, such as automated follow-ups with permit holders, to encourage progress. “The City of Barrie is doing quite well in managing these permits, but we’re watching legal developments closely,” Evans said.

A Commitment to Growth and Accountability

The committee’s actions reflect a broader commitment to enhancing community services and governance. The proposed northwest library branch, combined with strengthened financial audits and measures to manage construction permits, signals Barrie’s dedication to fostering growth, accountability, and accessibility for its residents.