August 30, 2023 News

Find your Ward here here and your Council Members here

Mayor Burton will deliver State of the Town Address on September 25

Mayor Rob Burton will deliver his 17th annual State of the Town address on September 25, 2023, at 5:30 pm, the speech will be hosted at Town Hall, providing an opportunity for residents and business community to hear about Oakville's progress, challenges, and future plans.


The event is not only an occasion to stay informed about Oakville's development but also a chance for the community to engage with members of Council. Prior to the address, residents will have the chance to mingle with Councillors, the Mayor, and fellow community members at the Atrium. This pre-event gathering, complete with snacks, fosters a casual and friendly environment for meaningful conversations and networking. Residents are encouraged to attend, share their insights, and be part of shaping Oakville's future.


"As we gather for the State of the Town Address, I am excited to connect with our vibrant Oakville community. This event provides us with a valuable opportunity to reflect on our achievements, discuss our ongoing projects, and share our vision for the future. I look forward to engaging in meaningful conversations with residents and hearing their perspectives, as we collectively work towards making Oakville an even better place to live, work, and thrive." - Mayor Rob Burton


2024 Budget Committee will meet on September 6, 2023 at 9:30 a.m.

The Budget Committee will be receiving staff reports that may have a budget impact.

 

Watch the livestream here


Mayor Burton discusses 2024 Budget with Budget Chair, Councillor Sean O'Meara and Commissioner of Corporates Services and Treasurer, Nancy Sully.

Province sending regional facilitator to assess Halton governance structure 

Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Steve Clark says that prior to Sept. 11 a regional facilitator will be appointed to assess Halton’s two-tier government.


Clark made the announcement during an Aug. 22 speech at the annual conference of the Association of Municipalities in London.


He said facilitators would also be assigned to Durham, Simcoe County, Waterloo and York.

“These facilitators will be tasked with assessing local governance structures in these communities to ensure they are prepared to support growth and meet the needs of their residents, particularly when it comes to building homes and housing-enabling infrastructure,” said Conrad Spezowka, ministry spokesperson.


“We have heard from a number of municipalities about the importance of linkages across jurisdictions, especially when it comes to housing-enabling infrastructure such as water and wastewater. The coordinating facilitator will help ensure these linkages are understood and well supported during the assessment process.”


Spezowka went on to say that the regional assessments would help determine whether and how the two-tier government is able to efficiently address the challenges facing Ontarians today, particularly when it comes to building homes, and what steps need to be taken in order to ensure the two-tier government is improved and made efficient.


Oakville Mayor Rob Burton said that because the goal of efficient and effective municipal services is mentioned three times in the Municipal Act, he expects the facilitator review will be in that light.

Read the full story here

Halton Region Launches Building Safer Communities Grant to Address Gun and Gang Violence

Halton Region is proactively addressing gun and gang violence with the introduction of the Building Safer Communities in Halton Grant. Backed by federal funding, this initiative offers local organizations up to $2.4 million to implement community-based prevention and intervention programs.


The grant, available from January 1, 2024, to March 31, 2026, aims to ensure the safety and well-being of children, youth, and young adults.


Eligible applicants must focus on evidence-based strategies, align with priority program types, address themes like human trafficking prevention, and provide equitable services to diverse populations. The initiative reflects Halton Region's commitment to fostering security and inclusivity while tackling complex challenges head-on.


Individuals interested in the grant can find more information on Halton.ca and participate in information sessions by contacting [email protected].

Culture Days Returns to Oakville: Celebrating Creativity and Community

From September 22 to October 15, Culture Days is back in Oakville, offering a vibrant three-week celebration of local arts and culture.


The collaborative efforts of the Town of Oakville, local artists, creators, and community members have paved the way for an exciting array of free programs and activities, positioning Oakville as a key player in the Halton Festival Hub.


The event, spanning across communities in Canada, invites residents to explore their creativity, share artistic expressions, and revel in the unique spirit of Oakville.


With nearly 100 local events on the schedule, Culture Days promises diverse experiences, from singer/songwriter performances and Indigenous heritage celebrations to interactive music explorations and captivating art installations.


"Oakville has a vibrant arts and culture community that helps our town stand apart from the rest. I’d like to thank our local artists, creators and community groups for coming together with the town to spotlight all the inclusive and interactive programs and events we have in Oakville for Culture Days." - Mayor Rob Burton

Read the full release

HRPS Launches Project Safe Start 2023: Prioritizing Road Safety

As students prepare to head back to school, the Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) has rolled out its 16th annual Project Safe Start campaign.


With the aim of promoting road safety awareness, HRPS urges all road users to exercise caution under the banner of "Always Be Cautious" (ABC). The campaign emphasizes responsible road behavior as traffic is expected to surge during this period.


HRPS is enhancing police presence and traffic enforcement around schools and community safety zones to ensure safer roads. Chief of Police Stephen J. Tanner highlights the shared responsibility of safeguarding children and stresses that road safety remains a year-round priority.


The campaign emphasizes avoiding distractions while driving, adhering to speed limits, and refraining from driving under the influence. Residents can report road safety concerns through HRPS channels, and updates can be followed on social media with the hashtag #SafeStart.

Read the full story

Mayor and Councillors celebrate

Veronica Tyrrell Day in Oakville

Oakville celebrated Veronica Tyrrell Day, a day dedicated to honoring exemplary community dedication and contributions. Joined by Mayor Rob Burton, Ward 7 Councillors Scott Xie and Nav Nanda and MPP Effie Triantifolopolous the event served as a fitting tribute to a community leader who has left an indelible mark on the town.


Veronica Tyrrell Day marks a significant recognition of the tireless efforts and selfless service that Veronica Tyrrell has bestowed upon the community.


Mayor Rob Burton expressed his appreciation for Veronica Tyrrell's remarkable work, stating, "Veronica Tyrrell has truly exemplified what it means to be a community leader. Her efforts have elevated Oakville's spirit and sense of togetherness. We are honored to dedicate this day to her and celebrate her outstanding contributions."


Mayor Burton has proclaimed August 27th, 2023 as Veronica Tyrrell Day in the Town of Oakville.

Read the full proclamation

Local News

Participate in the Town of Oakville's youth mural project


The Town of Oakville, in collaboration with the Oakville Youth Action Committee, is excited to announce a unique opportunity for youth aged 13 to 18 to showcase their artistic expression in a public space. Applications close September 18.

Read the full story

Metro and striking grocery workers reach tentative agreement


A tentative agreement has been reached between Unifor and Metro following a month-long strike action.

Read the full story

Provincial News

Ontario Preparing Students for Success


The Ontario government is providing new student supports and updating curriculum for the 2023-24 school year. These actions will refocus school boards on the development of foundational skills in reading, writing and math, supported by almost $700 million more in base education funding, $109 million in a new strategy to boost literacy rates, and the hiring of 2,000 more educators.

Read the full release

Ontario Welcomes $8.4 Million in Manufacturing Investments


The Ontario government is welcoming two new investments totalling $8.4 million by Cobourg manufacturers Beneco Packaging and Custom Plastics International Limited. These investments will increase the production of made-in-Ontario products and create 30 new, good-paying jobs in Cobourg.

Read the full release

Ontario Integrity Commissioner releases his report on actions around the Greenbelt decision


Integrity commissioner J. David Wake ruled Wednesday that Minister Steve Clark contravened the legislation by allowing his chief of staff to select 14 of the 15 plots of land removed from the Greenbelt.


But Premier Doug Ford is standing by his minister despite mounting pressure for him to go.


“Minister Clark will continue to work towards delivering on our promise to build at least 1.5 million homes and ensure public trust and confidence is maintained every step of the way,” the premier’s office said in a statement.


The minister’s top aide, Ryan Amato, resigned last week. His lawyer, Kathryn Marshall, said they would have no comment.


Clark said “as minister, the buck stops with me and I accept the integrity commissioner’s findings.”


“There were clear flaws in the process that led to today’s report. I am fully committed to fulfilling our government’s promise to build at least 1.5 million homes and will ensure the process is done with integrity and trust,” he said.

Read the full report here

National News

Air Canada slashing routes out of Calgary in face of ongoing pilot shortage

Air Canada is eliminating six major routes out of Calgary this winter, in part due to an industry-wide pilot shortage.

Read the full story

More than 20 types of energy drink now included in Canadian recall

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has widened its recall of energy drinks to include more than 25 brands, warning the products might not be safe to consume because of their caffeine content.

Read the full story

World News

Hurricane Idalia unleashes fury on Florida and Georgia


Hurricane Idalia made landfall Wednesday in Florida as a Category 3 storm and unleashed devastation along a wide stretch of the Gulf Coast, submerging homes and vehicles, turning streets into rivers, unmooring small boats and downing power lines before sweeping into Georgia.

Read the full story

Military Officers take power in Gabon Days after

President wins 3rd term in disputed election


Military officers in oil-producing Gabon said they had seized power on Wednesday and put President Ali Bongo under house arrest, stepping in minutes after the Central African state's election body announced he had won a third term.

Read the full story

Upcoming Events

Dorval Crossing Civitan Farmer’s Market is the Town of Oakville’s longest running farmer’s market. Our market operates from 8:00 a.m. till 1:30 p.m every Saturday from May until the end of November. All proceeds earned by the market stall rentals are donated to local Oakville charities.


oakvillefarmersmarket.ca  oakvillecivitan.ca 

$2,500 Digital Transformation Grants NOW available

Applications are now being accepted for the $2,500 Digital Transformation Grants! Applications will be accepted until September 30, 2023, or until funds are fully exhausted. There are a limited number of grants available, so businesses are encouraged to apply early!

 

It is free to apply and the process is simple:

 

  1. Register your business at digitalmainstreet.ca/ontariogrants/ and complete the digital assessment.
  2. Pass the pre-qualification quiz, complete the 2.5 hours of online training, and develop your Digital Transformation Plan.
  3. Apply for a $2,500 grant.

Food Banks experiencing record demand


Oakville's food banks are in record-breaking demand. If you can donate anything, please do. Your help is needed.


Fareshare Food Bank Oakville:

905-847-3988

[email protected]


Kerr Street Mission

905-845-7485

kerrstreet.com


The Salvation Army Oakville

salvationarmy.ca


Food 4 Kids Halton

food4kidshalton.ca


Oak Park & Neighbourhood Centre Food Bank

opnc.ca

Contact Us

Town of Oakville

1225 Trafalgar Road,

Oakville, Ontario

[email protected]

905-845-6601

Contact Service Oakville
Subscribe