Shifting Sands: How Prince Edward County’s Population Is Changing
Prince Edward County has long been known for its pastoral charm, small-town values, and strong rural identity. But beneath the surface of rolling vineyards and historic hamlets, the County is undergoing a profound demographic transformation—one that carries both opportunities and challenges for housing, infrastructure, health care, and civic engagement.
Port Picton Zoning Review Raises Alarm Over Potential MZO Use
What’s At Stake? The 24-acre site is currently zoned for industrial use. Over the years, it has supported various marine and aggregate-related activities, with proximity to deepwater docking making it attractive for shipping and logistics.
Why Prince Edward County Must Ban Short‑Term Rentals: A Data-Driven Case for a 3‑Year Sunset Plan
The Evidence: How STRs Are Fueling Housing Scarcity in PEC. From 2016–2017, approximately 50% of home sales in PEC were tied to short-term accommodation activity. That share dropped to 23.2% by 2020, but nonetheless reflects the heavy influence of STRs on real estate pricing and availability. A municipal advisory noted a staggering $47,760 annual home affordability gap and $318/month rental gap in Picton—partially attributed to STR-driven demand surge between 2019–2021. [Read more]
Emergency Preparedness in Prince Edward County: A Call for Action
As climate change leads to more frequent and intense floods, wildfires, and extreme storms, communities across Ontario—including Prince Edward County (PEC)—are facing an increasing risk of natural disasters. While our local emergency services play a critical role in responding to crises, PEC is in urgent need of a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan tailored to its unique landscape and vulnerabilities. With PEC’s rural geography, scattered communities, and aging infrastructure, it is essential that we take proactive steps to ensure that we are prepared for the worst.
Municipal Councillor Compensation in Ontario: Assessing Prince Edward County’s Position
Aligning councillor pay with a living wage—estimated at $37,000 to $50,000 annually in Ontario—would signal that PEC values the work of its elected officials and seeks capable leaders from all backgrounds. Read more.
Tourism’s Hidden Cost
Why Seasonal, Low-Paying Jobs Are Undermining Prince Edward County’s Future. Prince Edward County’s rise as a top-tier tourism destination has brought undeniable short-term gains: bustling wineries, packed summer events, and a surge of weekend visitors. But beneath the charm of farm-to-table dining and boutique accommodations lies a deeper economic question: Is tourism-based employment really serving the long-term interests of the County and its residents? Read more.
How Reliable Is Our Emergency Response in Rural Prince Edward County?
In a rural community like Prince Edward County, where small villages and farms are spread out across more than 1,000 square kilometers, emergency response times aren’t just a matter of convenience—they are a matter of life and death. While many urban areas in Ontario have paramedic and fire services within minutes, rural regions like PEC face unique challenges: long distances, aging infrastructure, and limited staffing, all of which can delay help when seconds matter most. Read more.
Ten-Point Recommendation for a Green Strategy in Prince Edward County
As Prince Edward County continues to grow, it is crucial that the County Council adopts a comprehensive green strategy that prioritizes the preservation and expansion of green spaces, promotes sustainability, and fosters community well-being. Below are ten key recommendations for Council to consider in developing and implementing a green strategy for the County: