The City of Barrie is undergoing a comprehensive review of its ward boundaries. This review aims to help City Council decide whether to maintain the current ward structure or adopt a new one. The primary goal of the review is to ensure that each ward in Barrie has a balanced population, which is crucial for fair and effective representation in the municipal government. This is especially important as Barrie's population continues to grow and change.
"As Barrie continues to grow, it is essential that our ward boundaries reflect our evolving community," said Wendy Cooke, City Clerk. "This review is about ensuring fair representation for all residents so that every voice is heard equally at City Council."
The population of Barrie has been steadily increasing, with the 2021 census reporting approximately 153,000 residents, a nearly 12% increase since the last review. This growth requires a review to ensure that the ward boundaries continue to provide equitable representation.
Get Involved
Residents are encouraged to participate in the review process by visiting buildingbarrie.ca/wardsreview to learn more and take an online survey.
Residents can also attend one of the upcoming in-person consultation sessions, at the Barrie City Hall Rotunda (1st floor, 70 Collier Street):
March 18: 2:00 – 3:30 pm
March 18, 6:00 to 7:30 pm
March 20: 2:00 – 3:30 PM
A Brief History of Barrie's Electoral System
1870: Barrie was incorporated as a Town
1959: Barrie became a City
1982: Barrie has been governed by a council of 11 members (10 councillors and the Mayor elected at-large)
1995: The current 10-ward system was established, with one councillor elected from each ward
2013: The last ward boundary review was conducted to achieve greater population parity
For more information, please visit www.buildingbarrie.ca/WardsReview.
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