June 2026 Municipal Update

June 2026 Newsletter

From the Mayor’s Desk

As we move into the summer season, Victoria once again comes alive with visitors, community events, and the natural beauty that makes our village such a special place to call home. Summer provides an opportunity to enjoy all that our community has to offer while also reflecting on the important role each of us plays in shaping Victoria's future. I would like to share some thoughts on community participation, respect, and the collective responsibility we all share in building a strong and vibrant community.

Council member resigns

The Council received a resignation letter from Councillor Shelley Trainor.

In her letter, Shelley explained that, after considerable reflection, she had decided to step away from municipal politics.  She cited ongoing harassment and bullying as factors that influenced her decision and noted that it had become increasingly difficult to continue serving in a healthy and productive manner. She also expressed a desire to focus her time and energy on her family and business.

On behalf of the Council, municipal staff, and the residents of Victoria, I would like to sincerely thank Shelley for her service, dedication, and commitment to our community. Public service requires significant personal sacrifice, and we are grateful for the time and effort she devoted to making Victoria a better place.

Shelley's resignation also presents an opportunity for our community to reflect on an issue that is affecting municipalities across Canada.

Bullying and harassment have no place in our community

Democracy depends on people being willing to step forward and serve. Whether as elected officials, volunteer firefighters, committee members, board members, coaches, or organizers of community events, communities thrive because ordinary citizens choose to contribute their time and talents for the benefit of others.

Unfortunately, many communities are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit and retain volunteers and public leaders. One reason is the growing level of hostility, harassment, and personal attacks directed toward those who choose to serve.

Healthy democracies require debate, discussion, and differing viewpoints. Residents have every right to question decisions, express concerns, and hold their elected officials accountable. In fact, constructive criticism is an important part of good government.

However, there is a clear line between disagreement and harassment.

We can challenge ideas without attacking people. We can express concerns without intimidation. We can hold one another accountable without resorting to personal insults, rumours, or bullying.

When that line is crossed, the consequences extend far beyond the individuals involved. Talented and capable people begin to question whether public service is worth the personal cost. Some decide not to run for Council. Others choose not to volunteer. Over time, the entire community loses the benefit of their knowledge, experience, and leadership.

For a small community like Victoria, this is a serious concern. We depend on citizen participation. Our future depends on residents who are willing to become involved, contribute ideas, and help shape the direction of our community.

This November, residents will have an opportunity to participate directly in our local democracy through the municipal election. I encourage everyone not only to vote but also to consider how they can contribute to the future of Victoria. Some may choose to run for Council. Others may volunteer with community organizations or serve on committees. All forms of participation strengthen our community.

As we approach the election, I hope we will also renew our commitment to treating one another with dignity and respect. We will not always agree on every issue, nor should we. Different perspectives make communities stronger. But our discussions must be guided by civility, respect, and a genuine desire to work together for the common good.

The culture of a community is shaped by the behaviour we choose to accept and the example we choose to set. Each of us has a responsibility to help create an environment where people feel safe to participate, share their opinions, and serve without fear of harassment or bullying.

At its June meeting, the Council reaffirmed that harassment and bullying have no place in our municipal culture. Victoria has adopted a zero-tolerance approach to such behaviour, and we remain committed to fostering a respectful and welcoming environment for everyone.

The future of our community depends not only on the decisions we make, but on how we treat one another while making them.  Ultimately, no policy or bylaw can create a respectful community. That responsibility belongs to each of us in the choices we make every day about how we speak to, and about, our neighbours.

Let us continue to build a Victoria where people are encouraged to participate, where differing opinions are respected, and where service to the community is valued and supported.

Victoria Beautification Program

The Council recently approved the Victoria Beautification Program, an initiative designed to recognize and celebrate excellence in property design, construction, renovation, landscaping, and overall contributions to the appearance and character of our community.

Victoria's unique appeal is built in large part by the efforts of property owners who invest their time, resources, and creativity into maintaining and improving their homes, businesses, and public-facing spaces. These efforts not only enhance neighbourhood pride and quality of life for residents, but also contribute significantly to the visitor experience that supports our tourism economy.

Last year, the Council adopted a Dangerous, Hazardous and Unsightly Property Bylaw that established a framework to help ensure properties remain safe, well-maintained, and attractive. The Victoria Beautification Program builds upon that foundation by recognizing those individuals and organizations whose efforts go beyond meeting minimum standards and make an exceptional contribution to the visual appeal of our community.

Through this biannual program, the Council hopes to encourage continued investment in our properties and celebrate the pride that residents and business owners take in making Victoria a welcoming and vibrant place to live, work, and visit.

Additional information about the program, including nomination and selection details, can be found at Municipality's website: https://www.rmvictoria.com/beautification-program.

I encourage all residents to stay involved in municipal affairs including attending the Council meetings, following our updates, and reaching out with questions, ideas, or feedback. Your participation helps strengthen our community and ensures that decisions reflect the views of the people who call Victoria home.

You may contact your Council representatives or the Municipal Office directly. I am also available at 902-388-7584 or by email at allenfarm17@gmail.com.

Martin Ruben, Mayor

From the Municipal Office

Developments in Victoria

During the first half of the year 2026, the Planning Board received 9 development permits for a total value of more than 1.5 million dollars. Major projects include the renovation of the OH Hotel and housing construction in the Dunrovin Shores and Estates Subdivisions. A new home-based business will also open its doors on Main Street.

Recently, the Municipality received word from the Provincial Government that it will not receive the Canadian Housing Infrastructure Fund grant that was expected to support the development of water and sewer systems needed for the announced MacDonald and Geurts Land developments. The Municipality is reconsidering its options for the development of these strategic locations. 

This situation has temporarily halted plans for a childcare facility in Victoria, as the facility is intended to be developed in conjunction with a future housing development.

New bylaws

Mandated by the Council, the Municipal Office is now preparing three new bylaws that should come into effect later this Fall. These bylaws address noise impacts, signage regulations, and the formal establishment of a social committee.

A public meeting will be organized in early September to discuss with the residents the content of these bylaws.

Committees at work

The three Council committees (Planning Board, W&S Corporation and Emergency Measures Planning Committee) have been very busy since January 2026. The Planning Board (led by ChairJean McCardle) had 4 meetings to process the permit applications while the W&S Corporation (led by Chair Tom Wright) met twice to discuss the 26-27 budget, the assessment of the water systems and the possible hiring of a W&S Manager. Recently the renewed Emergency Measures Planning Committee (led by Chair Susan Oxley) had two meetings to discuss the EM bylaw and the risk assessment to be done gradually by the committee members.

Thank you to all the participants at these committee meetings.

A new Emergency Measures Coordinator

At the June Council meeting, Kim Hines, a new resident of Victoria, was appointed as the Emergency Measures Coordinator. Kim will be primarily responsible for coordinating volunteers and professional services during emergencies. She will also manage the reception centre with the help of the Municipal Office. Thank you Kim for your involvement in this important service to our community.

Parking Plan

Parking has been an ongoing challenge in Victoria during the busy summer tourism season. To help improve traffic flow and make better use of existing parking areas, Council has approved a new Parking Plan that will introduce wayfinding signage directing visitors to public parking locations throughout the Village, including the Old School, Dunrovin, the Wharf, and the Welcome Centre. By making it easier for visitors to find available parking, the plan will help reduce congestion in key areas and improve the experience for both residents and visitors. Special thanks to the Victoria Business Association for its contribution to this initiative and its continued support of community improvement projects.

Summer Student Positions

The Municipality is pleased to receive provincial funding for two summer student positions this year.

We are pleased to welcome Christopher as one of our Summer Students for 2026. Christopher is a Business Administration student at Holland College and will be assisting both the Municipal Office and the Welcome Centre throughout the summer.

We are delighted to have Christopher join our team and wish him a meaningful and rewarding summer with the Municipality.

Celebrate Canada Day

Preparations are underway for our Canada Day Community Celebration on July 1 at the Greenspace and Boardwalk beside the Wharf. Residents and visitors are invited to join us for an afternoon of family-friendly activities, entertainment, and community spirit.

Event Schedule

12:15 p.m. – Chocolate Factory Kazoo Band (for all ages) and Victoria Fire Department Parade

12:30 p.m. – Opening Remarks

12:45 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. – Live Music, Community BBQ, Face Painting, Magic Show, Lemonade, and Freezies

Bring a chair or blanket and come relax by the waterfront while enjoying the festivities with family, friends, and neighbours.

A special thank you to Marly Anderson and Bridget Patterson for their dedication in planning and coordinating this year's festivities. We are also grateful to our local businesses, sponsors, and volunteers for their support in helping create a welcoming celebration. 

Water and Sewer Bills Reminder

Some property owners have not yet paid their 2026–2027 water and sewer bills.

Under the Fees and Water and Sewer Tariffs Bylaw, water and sewer service may be suspended if an account remains unpaid for more than 60 days. A minimum of 48 hours' written notice will be provided before any service suspension.

Property owners with outstanding balances are encouraged to make payment as soon as possible or contact the Municipal Office if they have any questions.

2026 Municipal Election

The next municipal election will take place on November 2, 2026. Preparations are already underway, and Council reviewed the election timeline and key dates. This September, training opportunities will be available for both prospective candidates and voters. We encourage residents who are interested in helping shape the future of our community to consider becoming a candidate or taking an active role in the election process.

That’s all for this month! See past issues at www.RMVictoria.com/newsletters

Questions or feedback? Info for a future newsletter or photos you’re willing to share?
Contact staff at victoriamunicipalitypei@gmail.com 

Victoria Historic Schoolhouse

730 Victoria Road, Victoria, PE, 

C0A 1J0, Canada