Message from Mayor Bob Carter April 17, 2026

Update Message from Mayor Bob Carter on the State of Emergency

Dated: April 17, 2026

The Township of Minden Hills declared a state of emergency on April 14, 2026. This was in response to the flooding conditions impacting our community and our infrastructure. I wish I had better news to share, however, with the continued precipitation and warm weather the water levels will continue to increase over the coming days.

Why declare a state of emergency? Declaring a state of emergency is an important step as it allows our municipality to take immediate action. It also activates provincial and agency assistance/support.

These disasters bring out the best in our community. You see this with the ongoing sandbagging efforts, people bringing sandbags to neighbours and helping at the stations. You see the community helping in a variety of ways, through donations of water, snacks, time, equipment and effort. Thank you very much one and all.

We have also received volunteers from across the region and beyond and we thank them very much for their help. Other municipalities from Haliburton County and neighbouring municipalities have offered and delivered official support.

We are working closely with MNR, MEPR and Parks Canada to coordinate efforts. Parks Canada is doing all within their power to protect Minden and the Gull & Burnt River systems.

Public safety is the main driver of all our decisions. We do get forecasts and we work to make decisions ahead of the events. That is why we have decided to close the bridges in Minden. We are also doing an emergency repair of Bobcaygeon Road to ensure that we have reasonable access for emergency vehicles.

Coming together to help when needed, supporting one another and making our Community a place with heart.

Thank you for your dedication, patience and perseverance as we navigate the 2026 flood. In order to ensure that you have complete and accurate information, review our releases on the Township website (mindehills.ca/news) and social media pages.

If you need assistance or have questions, reach out to our Public Inquiry Centre at 705-286-1260 or email we are here to help.

Sincerely,

Bob Carter, Mayor
Township of Minden Hills