Home Authors Articles by Bethan Bates, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Articles by Bethan Bates, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Bethan Bates, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
69 Articles
Bethan Bates is a writer and charitable sector professional who is interested in the issues affecting our society. An experienced writer and editor, Bethan has covered a host of topics from local events to international affairs to media reviews. Through her work, writing, and volunteering, Bethan is dedicated to advocating for women’s and children’s rights. In her free time she can be found doing yoga, reading, or cuddling with her cat. Her reporting is funded by the Government of Canada through its Local Journalism Initiative.
A rendering of TVM Group's 17-storey residential-commercial building to be constructed at 90 Hunter Street East beside Mark Street United Church in Peterborough's East City. On September 3, 2025, Peterborough city council voted 7-4 to approve a zoning by-law amendment to allow construction to proceed on the building, which will be the tallest in Peterborough. (Graphic: RAW Design Inc.)

Peterborough ward candidates weigh in on housing intensification across the city

As part of a multi-story series on the municipal election, kawarthaNOW asks ward candidates about intensification both in established neighbourhoods and city wide.
United Way Peterborough & District's new CEO Jason Seguya with Tiffany Arcari during the announcement of Arcari as the 2026-27 campaign cabinet chair on July 15, 2026. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW)

United Way Peterborough & District celebrates milestone year of fundraising and community investment

Organization's 84th annual general meeting highlights more than $1.5 million raised, $2.4 million invested in the community, and the arrival of new CEO Jason Seguya.
The industrial park located beside Highway 115 in southeast Peterborough. (Photo: City of Peterborough)

Peterborough ward candidates lay out their visions for the city’s economic future

As part of a multi-story series on the municipal election, kawarthaNOW asks ward candidates how Peterborough should approach economic development strategies and opportunities.
Contractors completed an upgrade to the radio tower at Wilson Park / Woodview Fire Station 1 in North Kawartha Township on July 30, 2026 to improve communications for fire services and public works across the township. (Photo: Edward Hilton / North Kawartha Township)

North Kawartha Township invests in stronger emergency communications as severe weather increases

Completed Woodview radio tower upgrade using provincial funding part of a broader effort to improve readiness and reduce service disruptions during future storms
As of July 31, 2026, 30 people have registered as candidates for the 11 seats on Peterborough city council in the October municipal election, including six for mayor and 24 for ward councillors. (Photo: City of Peterborough)

Upcoming kawarthaNOW election series to put Peterborough ward candidates on the record

Registered candidates have been asked to explain their positions on economic growth, housing, transportation, city finances, governance, and other city issues.
The seven candidates running for two councillor positions in Ward 5 (Northcrest) in Peterborough's municipal election, as of July 28, 2026, are (left to right, top and bottom) incumbent Andrew Beamer, Debbie Halstead, Phil Jolicoeur, Paul Lawton, Charmaine Magumbe, Gavin Muir, and Jim Wasson, (kawarthaNOW collage of photos from candidate websites and social media)

Peterborough Northcrest Ward candidates introduce their campaigns ahead of October’s municipal election

With one incumbent seeking re-election and six challengers on the ballot, kawarthaNOW continues a multi-part councillor candidate series with Ward 5.
Peterborough City Hall. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW)

Peterborough youth organize to take civic engagement into their own hands

Led by student organizer Avery Trenholm, the new Leaders of Tomorrow group is creating an independent forum for residents aged 13 to 18 to advocate for their priorities.
Tenants in Etobicoke protesting a property management company's above-guideline rent increase (AGI) on May 24, 2026. (Photo: Toronto Tenant Union / Facebook)

New Peterborough Tenant Union aims to educate, support, and empower local renters

Grassroots group plans to share information about tenant rights, offer community support, and advocate for systemic change.
Kevin McPhillips of McSweeney & Associates, the consulting firm retained by the City of Peterborough to facilitiate the creation of the city's new five-year economic development strategic plan, waits to make a presentation during a community open house at Miskin Law Community Complex on July 20, 2026. (Photo: Bethan Bates / kawarthaNOW)

City of Peterborough looks beyond ‘chasing smokestacks’ in new economic development strategy

At July 20 open house, consultant says attracting residents, retaining businesses, and diversifying investment will help Peterborough build a more resilient economy.
Kawartha Lakes city council deliberating during a special council meeting on November 26, 2024 where the mayor's proposed budget was discussed. (Photo: City of Kawartha Lakes)

Kawartha Lakes mayoral race heats up while some ward candidates face no opposition

Two sitting councillors are among four candidates seeking the mayor’s chair, as low registration in some wards creates the potential for acclamations.

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