Re:     Township State of Emergency Due to Ice Storm – Update #11

The Township of Minden Hills would like to thank the community for their patience and cooperation during the storm event and as we begin the recovery phase. We would like to acknowledge all the neighbours and groups who have helped those in need across Minden Hills.   

There is a need to use caution on the roadways as the phased clean-up process continues and this work will take some time. The Township and County Roads staff are currently working to clear trees from the actual roadways in this phase. Their focus is to make the right-of ways safe for passage.  

The next phase will move to clearing the sides of the roadways. As well, a community clean-up plan is being developed with the County of Haliburton working with Minden Hills. We will update as soon as more information is available. 

Hydro Update

Hydro One has updated that the majority of power has been restored with the exception of some areas in challenging terrain. Thank you to all the Hydro One staff and their contractors who have worked to restore power. 

Warming and Information Centre Update

The official Warming and Information Centre at the SG Nesbitt Memorial Arena (55 Parkside St.) will wind down at 4 pm today (Monday April 14, 2025). The facility will continue to offer showers and fresh water, during regular business hours for those in need. Visit the main desk to access these services.  

Please note that the facility is scheduled to be closed on Good Friday (April 18^th) and Easter Monday (April 21^st). 

Township Facilities & Programs

SG Nesbitt Memorial Arena

Reopened on Monday, April 14, 2025, the SG Nesbitt Memorial Arena has seen the return of some of the regular programs including:

• Current ice user bookings to restart (Figure Skating, Men’s Leagues, etc.) on their booked time and dates
• Fitness Centre and walking track will be open regular hours 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Registered Adult and Youth programs (fitness classes, and youth recreation programming) 

On Tuesday, April 22, 2025 the drop-in programs for adult and youth will resume. The facility will also begin to accept new bookings for ice, gymnasium and the community rooms on April 22. 

Township Administration Office

The Township Administration Office opened on Monday, April 14, 2025. Township staff resources have been allocated to the emergency, however, some staff resources are gradually being directed back to the Township Office/Facilities, as we slowly work our way back to resuming regular services. 

Minden Hills Cultural Centre (MHCC)

The MHCC will reopen on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 for regular programming. 

No Daytime Burning Permitted

As per Provincial legislation, reminder that there is no daytime burning permitted in the County. Residents can burn from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. 

Flooding and High-Water Updates

Parks Canada and the Ministry of Natural Resources are continuing to monitor the water levels and potential weather conditions. We will update as the conditions change and post on our website. 

If required, sandbags and sand are available for filling at the Minden Curling Club parking lot, 50 Prentice Street. Sandbags and sand are also available for filling at the Irondale Community Centre, 1004 Line Drive Road. Water levels remain high. A reminder to please stay away from lakes, rivers, and streams as water is moving quickly. 

Emergency Assistance Funding

Residents in extreme financial hardship due to storm impacts may be able to access emergency assistance through Ontario’s Social Assistance Programs. 

An online application form is available and can be found at the following link: https://www.ontario.ca/page/apply-emergency-assistance. 

Any residents who may require support filling out the application form or need access to a computer and/or internet, residents can visit a Library branch to access WiFi, computers, as well as support. A list of branches and their hours of operation can be found at: https://www.haliburtonlibrary.ca/About-Us/Branches-Hours. The John Howard Society, 14 Iga Road can also support residents with the application process. They can be reached at 705-340-8486. The Warming and Information Centre is also available as a support to residents. 

Brush and Property Clean up

Please do not place brush from your private property onto the shoulder of the roads. This creates a safety hazard. Please take your brush to the Scotch Line Landfill or arrange to have it taken. 

To support Minden Hills residents in cleanup efforts after the recent ice storm, we are waiving disposal fees until further notice. Brush will be accepted at the Scotch Line Landfill only during this time, as this site can accommodate large quantities. 

Again, thank you to our residents for your continued patience and cooperation during this emergency. 

For inquiries related to the State of Emergency, you are encouraged to email icestorm2025@mindenhills.ca or call 705-286-1260 ext. 2025.

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