Mark your calendars, because the future of public health in Lakelands is about to be discussed—virtually. On February 2, 2026, the Lakelands Public Health Board of Health is holding a meeting that you won’t want to miss. But here’s where it gets interesting: part of the discussion will happen behind closed doors, sparking questions about transparency and public involvement. Let’s dive into the details.
Meeting Alert: Lakelands Public Health Board of Health
The next Board of Health meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 2, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. This time, the meeting will take place entirely online, making it accessible to anyone with an internet connection. To join, simply tune into the Lakelands Public Health YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@PHLakelands for the livestream.
What’s on the Agenda?
While the full agenda is available at LakelandsPH.ca/BOH, one item stands out: an In-Camera Session. This closed-door discussion will focus on the security of municipal property, as outlined in the Municipal Act, 2001, Section 239(2)(a). But here’s the part most people miss: in-camera sessions, while necessary for sensitive topics, often leave the public wondering what’s being decided on their behalf. Is this a fair trade-off between transparency and security? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
How to Participate
Members of the public and media are encouraged to attend the livestream. While you won’t be able to participate directly during the virtual meeting, staying informed is the first step toward engagement. For those who prefer to plan ahead, the full agenda and Board package are available online at LakelandsPH.ca/BOH.
Looking Ahead
If you’re unable to attend this meeting, mark your calendar for the next session on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. This meeting will be held in person at the Lakelands Peterborough Office, located at 185 King St., Peterborough. For more details, visit the Lakelands Public Health Board of Health website at https://www.lakelandsph.ca/BOH.
Final Thoughts
Public health decisions shape the well-being of our communities, yet the process can sometimes feel opaque. The use of in-camera sessions, while legally sound, raises questions about how much the public should know—and when. Do you think these closed discussions are justified, or is there a better way to balance transparency and security? Share your perspective below and let’s keep the conversation going. After all, public health is everyone’s business.
