The Historic Pushback of Victoria County!
70 Concerned Citizens Fill Kawartha Lakes City Hall – August 29, 2023
Victoria County was once a thriving, self-sufficient region, but its forced amalgamation into the City of Kawartha Lakes in 2001 has led to profound consequences.
Despite a local referendum rejecting amalgamation, the municipality was restructured, consolidating governance and shifting growth away from rural communities. Over time, this has resulted in the loss of vital services such as churches, community centers, clinics, libraries, schools, service hubs, and local banks in outlying areas. Meanwhile, growth has been intentionally funneled into “settlement areas” like Lindsay.
🔍 For more on this history and its lasting effects, read: Amalgamation 20 Years Later: Victoria County’s Demise Still Rankles Many Rural Constituents.
A Historic Pushback: What Happened on August 29?
The controversial Rural Rezoning Bylaw—set for approval on August 29, 2023—threatened to downgrade Woodville from a once-bustling rural hub to a mere hamlet while also restricting future food processing facilities.
Community Action in Full Force
📢 70 determined citizens filled the council chambers, upper and lower galleries, and even spilled into an overflow room.
📢 Each person who showed up represented 1,000 more concerned residents, a clear demonstration of public opposition.
📢 Leading the delegation: Angel Godsoe (Save Our Country), backed by Dr. Kersten Kelly and a strong community presence.
A Powerful Opening & A Small Victory
The meeting began with a resounding rendition of O Canada—a rare occurrence at city hall, noted by the council members themselves.
🎤 Angel Godsoe delivered a compelling presentation against the rezoning bylaws, outlining the detrimental impact on rural landowners and food production.
🗳 Ward 6 Councillor Ron Ashmore stood with the people, successfully pushing for a delay in the bylaw approval until September 15 to allow for further public consultation.
💪 The room erupted in celebration! The moment was marked by:
The blowing of the shofar 🏆
A symbolic honk 🎺
The breaking of bread at a local pub 🍞
This was more than a meeting—it was a statement of resilience and community strength.
Next Steps: Keeping the Momentum Going
With the delay secured, the fight continues. Here’s what’s next:
📌 Public Awareness Campaign – A core team is forming to educate residents on the rezoning bylaw’s implications and mobilize further support.
📌 Strategic Collaboration – Engaging with city staff, municipal law experts, and our elected councilors to ensure rural interests are represented.
📌 Upcoming Meetings & Action Items: 📅 Monday, September 4, 2023 – Church in Cameron
🕔 City Council Committee Meeting at 5:00 PM
🕖 Kawartha Freedom Group Regular Meeting at 7:00 PM
🎤 Guest Speaker: Stan McDonald – Analyzing the Municipal Act 2001 and Bylaw Strategies to empower our next steps.
📡 This meeting will be streamed live on ZOOM. 🔹 Meeting ID: 925 900 8609
🔹 Passcode: 547803
Final Thoughts: A Community That Stands Together, Wins Together
This was not just a pushback against unjust policies—it was a reminder of the power of an engaged community.
🚜 Rural voices matter.
🏡 Local governance should serve the people, not corporate interests.
💡 With unity, strategy, and persistence, we CAN take back our towns!
📩 Stay updated. Get involved. Spread the word.
#TakeBackOurTowns #ProtectRuralCommunities #LocalVoicesMatter
This is a much needed solution to an evil, tyrannical global agenda. God Bless you all.
the shofar? was this a jewish gathering? Or can just anyone blow that horn?