December 20, 2023 Newsletter

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Mayor's Message: Avancez into 2024 with Pride and Progress

As we bid farewell to an eventful 2023 and welcome the promise of a new year, it is with great joy and pride that I reflect on the remarkable achievements and milestones that have shaped our community.

Best Downtown Area: Our vibrant and thriving downtown area was recognized as the "Best Downtown Area" by Communities in Bloom, following the completion of the $20 million Lakeshore Road Reconstruction and Streetscape Revitalization. This accolade is a testament to the dedication of our local businesses and the welcoming spirit of our community.
Best Place to Invest (Fifth Year in a Row): Oakville continues to be acknowledged as the "Best Place to Invest" for the fifth consecutive year. This recognition underscores the sustained economic growth, innovation, and opportunities that our town provides for businesses and investors alike.
Lowest Tax Increase in the Region: I am delighted to share that Oakville has maintained its commitment to fiscal responsibility. In 2023, we achieved the lowest tax increase in the region and well below inflation, ensuring that our residents receive excellent services while minimizing the financial burden on their households.
Winning Bid to Host Centennial Cup: Oakville has secured the honor of hosting the prestigious Centennial Cup. This event not only brings exciting sportsmanship to our town but also highlights our capacity to host major events and celebrate the achievements of talented athletes.
Culture Days Award: Our rich cultural tapestry has been recognized with the Culture Days Award. This award celebrates the diversity of artistic expression and community engagement that makes Oakville a truly special place to live.
Free transit for youth and seniors: In the first month of free ridership for seniors and youths, there was a 127% ridership increase for seniors and an 85% increase in ridership for youths! In fact, during the second week of September, 16,500 Oakville Transit passengers used our buses, representing the single highest number of passengers the Oakville Transit system has ever carried exceeding pre-pandemic levels.
Oakville participates in COP28 Local Climate Action Summit: Mayor Burton joined mayors, governors, and other local leaders from more than 50 countries at the inaugural COP28 Local Climate Action Summit hosted by the COP28 Presidency and Bloomberg Philanthropies. Local leaders engaged in substantive conversations about concrete actions and strategies to enhance multi-level partnerships to accelerate global climate progress. On the second day of the Summit, Bloomberg Philanthropies gathered over 150 mayors from 55 countries to launch the Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund, providing technical assistance and funding to support mayors worldwide in engaging tens of thousands of youth aged 15 to 24 in designing, producing, and overseeing urgent climate solutions, from tree-planting to policy making.
Oakville approves by-laws to strengthen rental housing supply and tenant protection: Town Council approved a Rental Housing Protection By-law and Demolition Control By-law at the July 10, 2023 Planning and Development Council meeting. Together, the by-laws help preserve the existing supply of rental housing stock while strengthening tenant protection.

As we step into the new year, let us carry forward the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and community that has defined Oakville in 2023. Together, we will continue to build the most livable and vibrant community.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every resident, business, and community group that contributed to the success of Oakville in 2023. Your dedication and enthusiasm are the driving forces behind our achievements.

"Avancez" echoes in our hearts as we look ahead to a promising 2024. Wishing you all a joyful New Year filled with prosperity, good health, and the warmth of our Oakville community.

Mayor Rob Burton

Join Mayor and Council at Annual Levee

on Sunday, January 7th

As we step into the new year, Mayor Rob Burton extends a warm invitation to all Oakville residents to join him at the annual Mayor and Council's Levee. This community celebration, taking place on January 7, 2024, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, will be hosted at the South Atrium at Town Hall.

The Mayor and Council's Levee is an occasion to connect with neighbours, community leaders, and local officials in a casual and friendly atmosphere. This event is a reflection of Oakville's commitment to fostering unity and a strong sense of community.

Meet and Greet: Engage in meaningful conversations with Mayor Rob Burton and other members of the Oakville Town Council. This is a unique opportunity to share your thoughts, ideas, and aspirations for Oakville in the coming year.

Refreshments: Enjoy light refreshments and beverages provided as a gesture of appreciation for your continued support and involvement in shaping the Oakville community.

Date: January 7, 2024

Time: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Location: South Atrium at Town Hall - 1225 Trafalgar Road

Whether you're a long-time Oakville resident or a newcomer to the community, everyone is welcome to attend the Mayor and Council's Levee. Come with your family, bring a friend, or simply join in on your own – the more, the merrier!

This event is a wonderful way to kick off the new year, surrounded by the warmth and camaraderie that define Oakville. Make a resolution to be an active part of your community in 2024, starting with the Levee.

InHalton: Region warns of potential billion-dollar tax increase for Burlington, Milton, Oakville

Halton Region says taxes may jump sharply in Burlington, Oakville, Milton and Halton Hills unless the province provides infrastructure funding.

According to a report from Jane MacCaskill, Chief Administrative Officer, and Cyndy Winslow Commissioner, Finance and Regional Treasurer, the Region is facing a potential billion-dollar shortfall in funding if they are to meet various home building laws enacted by the province.

The report says Bill 23 (More Homes Built Faster Act, 2022) and Bill 134 (Affordable Homes and Good Jobs Act, 2023) both, “significantly impact Halton’s ability to fully recover the cost of growth-related infrastructure and services through DCs at a time when a significant increase and acceleration of infrastructure investment is required to enable growth.”

Read the full story

Oakville Beaver: 'Grateful for community input': Oakville council passes 2024 budget

Oakville council has voted unanimously to pass a 2024 budget that will see local property taxes rise 4.38 percent.

Full story by David Lea

Read the full story

Global News: Ontario plans ‘massive amounts of density’ along transit lines

Ontario’s housing minister is telling people who live near transit stations to get used to and embrace an influx of new buildings as the province plans for “massive amounts of density” along transit lines.

Paul Calandra said the Ford government is working on plans to speed up building along transit corridors to make good on billions the province is pouring into train and subway expansion.

“I think it’s natural,” Calandra said. “I think that’s what people would expect and we are going to expect our municipal partners to fall in line with that.”

Ontario is in the midst of an aggressive and sometimes chaotic push to build 1.5 million homes by 2031.

Federal Housing Minister Sean Fraser said Ontario wants to do “the same thing” that he does and is pushing cities to get in line.

“If you are not building density near transit in the 21st century, you’re doing it wrong,” Fraser said. “Ontario is adopting the right mindset.”

The new density — and years of construction that come with it — will not be limited to Toronto.

The tentacles of Ontario’s GO train network reach into areas like Barrie, Guelph and even Niagara Falls, meaning the new density push could happen across southern Ontario.

“We just have to understand that a growing whose economy is really doing quite well — we need the housing to match it,” Calandra said, referencing a recent s urge in immigration. “If you live along those corridors — where billions of dollars is being invested — there has to be an expectation that we build more density along that.”

Read the full story

Empowering Oakville: Launch of Community Activation Grant Program

In a significant stride towards fostering community engagement and belonging, the Town of Oakville is thrilled to introduce the Community Activation Grant program. This initiative, approved by Council with an annual funding allocation of $35,000, aims to support grassroots initiatives led by residents, informal groups, and neighbourhood associations that contribute to strengthening community bonds and fostering a sense of belonging.

The program will provide grants of up to $2,000 to eligible community and resident groups, as well as ad-hoc groups, organizing small-scale events, initiatives, and programs in Oakville. The focus is on activities that enhance the overall well-being of the community and contribute to a sense of belonging.

How to Apply:

Community members interested in applying for the Community Activation Grant are invited to complete the application online, ensuring submissions are made at least two months in advance of the proposed initiative or activity. The selection process will evaluate the extent to which the initiative enhances community belonging and aligns with program requirements.

The Town's Community Development team, housed within the Recreation and Culture department, is enthusiastic about collaborating with the community throughout the grant application process. Their goal is to ensure that initiatives are well-supported and set up for success.

For detailed information, including eligibility criteria and the application process, please visit the Community Activation Grant page.

Background:

Town Council allocated $35,000 annually for the Community Activation Grant as part of the 2023 Budget.
In September, program details and the framework were presented to Council.
The initiative aligns with Council's strategic priority to enhance community belonging, fostering a welcoming environment for all residents to engage in fulfilling community life that supports overall well-being.
Staff will provide a report to Council on the program's outcomes after one year.

“There are so many community groups and residents doing great things in Oakville to support our vibrancy and livability. Council and I hope the Community Activation Grant program will help these groups and individuals continue their work and inspire others to contribute to the well-being of our community.” — Mayor Rob Burton

Apply Here

Public Consultations

Transportation Master Plan Consultations Underway

Oakville's future just got a lot more exciting with the launch of the Transportation Master Plan (TMP) update. This comprehensive blueprint sets the stage for transformative transportation improvements, promoting a more walkable, cyclable, and transit-friendly community.

Understanding the Transportation Master Plan

A TMP is more than just a roadmap; it's a visionary document that outlines Oakville's transportation goals for the long term. It encompasses policies, programs, guidelines, and infrastructure enhancements, fostering safe, convenient, and efficient mobility for both people and goods.

Oakville's 2018 TMP prioritizes all modes of transportation, emphasizing public transit, walking, cycling, and ride-sharing. It strategically integrates roadway improvements, ensuring a holistic approach to community mobility.

Online Survey - Open Until February 29, 2024

Participate in the online survey, open until February 29, 2024, to share your insights on transportation in Oakville.

Stay Updated

If you want to stay in the loop, email [email protected] to be added to the Project Contact List.

Study Timeline

Early to Mid-2023: Review Policy framework and study context
Mid to Late 2023: Discover needs and opportunities
Late 2023 to Mid-2024: Imagine system solutions for transportation
Mid to Late 2024: Reveal draft and final plan

Expected Outcomes

Identify short, medium, and long-term action items for transportation infrastructure.
Recommend implementation plans for the town's transportation system.

Join us in shaping Oakville's future, ensuring it remains a vibrant and livable community for all.

Provincial News

'I think we’re making a big mistake': Windsor city councillor wants new report on multi-million dollar housing application

A Windsor city councillor wants to have a second look at the revised application to a federal housing program worth millions of dollars in funding “in light of new information” that may allow more time to consider the issue.

Read the full story

Federal News

No ‘silver bullet’ to fix housing as population rapidly grows: Trudeau

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says he knows young people are frustrated with him, and chief among those frustrations is the high cost of housing, which has left many young people feeling home ownership is out of reach.

However, Trudeau denies critics who suggest the federal government only began taking the housing file seriously in the last few months.

Read the full story

Helping communities respond to unsheltered homelessness this winter

To support communities in responding to unsheltered homelessness, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities announced $100 million towards emergency winter funding for many communities supported by Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy.

Read the full release