August 7 Office of the Mayor and Council Update |
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Oakville Resuming Services to Help Residents Stay Active |
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Beginning today, The Town of Oakville will be gradually reopening fitness centres for workout sessions by appointment only beginning with Glen Abbey and Iroquois Ridge. Enhanced safety measures are in place and all fitness centre users must follow the new guidelines including passing a screening process before entering.
As more Town services become available and we spend more time outdoors enjoying the summer weather, I ask everyone to continue following the advice of public health to wash your hands, cover coughs and sneezes, maintain physical distance from others and stay home if you're feeling unwell.
Oakville has done an excellent job of crushing the curve and by staying vigilant we can protect all of our efforts to reduce our COVID-19 numbers and make our community a safer place to live, work, and play in.
If you are out enjoying our Town’s many amenities and see any groups that might be larger than 100 people, you can call our Halton Police COVID-19 Hotline at 905-825-4722 or ServiceOakville at 905-845-6601 and a by-law enforcement officer will be dispatched to investigate the situation.
For a look at the updated COVID-19 pandemic timeline, please scroll to the end of this email.
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Items in this update:
- COVID case counts
- Canada added 419,000 jobs in July, but is still 1.3M below pre-COVID-19 levels
- Ontario, federal governments give $234.6M in new funding for child care
- Canada hitting back with $3.6B in countermeasures to Trump's tariffs: Freeland
- Town of Oakville announcements
- Lakeshore Road reconstruction continues
- Region of Halton looking for feedback on Regional Official Plan
- Provincial Government announcements
- Historic Agreement Delivers Over $230 Million for Child Care
- Ontario Continues on the Path of Renewal, Growth, and Economic Recovery
- Ontario Making Travel Easier Across York, Peel and Halton Regions
- Government of Canada announcements
- Joint statement from Minister Qualtrough, Minister Hussen, Minister Bains and Minister Chagger
- Statement by the Deputy Prime Minister on US tariffs on imports of Canadian aluminum
- India surpasses 2 million cases as health volunteers strike
- Coronavirus: Africa now over 3M cases, but millions still untested
- In related news
- How COVID-19 attacks the body
- Canada's Wonderland 'disappointed' with province's decision
- Quebec parents willing to go to court to keep kids out of classrooms
- Some COVID-19 patients report hair loss months later
- Canada’s last fully intact Arctic ice shelf collapses
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Oakville Town Council represents seven wards with a Town and Regional and Town Councillor in each riding.
Find and connect with your Councillor by clicking the link below.
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Confirmed cases in Halton increased by +3 from 832 to 835 with +2 new confirmed cases in Oakville, from 273 to 275.
There are currently 0 COVID-19 patients being cared for at OTMH and 6 active cases in Oakville.
There were 0 reported recoveries in Oakville, total remains at 292 and +2 recoveries in Halton Region, from 875 to 877.
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In Ontario there are 88 news cases today, bringing the total to 39,897, 36,024 of which are resolved. There have been 2,775 deaths in the province. Currently there are 66 COVID patients in Ontario hospitals, 28 of whom are in ICU with 12 of those on a ventilator.
There are 120,372 confirmed cases in Canada as of today with 104,676 resolved and 9,004 deaths.
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COVID-19 deaths per million |
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Canada added 419,000 jobs in July, but is still 1.3M below pre-COVID-19 levels |
Canada's economy added 419,000 jobs in July and the jobless rate dropped to 10.9 per cent.
Statistics Canada reported Friday that July's job gain, when added to the 953,000 in June and the 290,000 from May, still leaves Canada's economy with 1.3 million fewer jobs than it had in February, before widespread lockdowns to limit the spread of COVID-19 began. Put another way, that means the job market has returned to about 93 per cent of its previous capacity.
The recovery is also uneven across provinces, with Ontario leading the way with 151,000 new jobs, followed by Quebec with 98,000, B.C. with 70,000 and Alberta with 68,000 new jobs.
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Ontario, federal governments give $234.6M in new funding for child care |
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Ontario’s child-care centres will be receiving about three per cent of a major influx of cash from the federal government meant to help cope with the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, the province’s premier said Friday.
Doug Ford said $234.6 million would start flowing to licensed daycare providers, First Nations Child and Family Programs and other child-care operators in the coming weeks. The money comes as part of the Safe Restart Agreement, a $19-billion deal between Ottawa and the provinces and territories, of which Ontario will receive $7-billion.
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Canada hitting back with $3.6B in countermeasures to Trump's tariffs: Freeland |
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Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland has begun detailing Canada’s plans to hit back with $3.6 billion in countermeasures on a “broad and extensive list” of aluminum products in response to U.S. President Donald Trump imposing a new tariff on Canadian aluminum.
Freeland announced on Friday that over the next 30 days the federal government will consult industry on a long list of American products that they are looking to level, in what will be a dollar-for-dollar response.
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Like to stay up to date on the Lakeshore Road construction? |
Visit the Town's page and sign up for our newsletter for the latest info HERE
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Lakeshore Road reconstruction continues |
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What's happening now
Preparation for paving is underway from Allan to Reynolds. While the intersection at Reynolds will remain closed, once this work is completed, fencing in this block will come down and the area will be opened up for pedestrians.
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Allan to Reynolds
- Trees planted
- Granular road base completed
- Base and surface course asphalt from Allan Street to just east of Reynolds, and base course asphalt at the intersection of Lakeshore and Reynolds.
- Sidewalk at north west corner of Reynolds
- Oakville Hydro reconnection of street lighting this Friday, August 7, between 6:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. This work will result in a 3-hour power outage for the area. Businesses and residents have been notified.
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Reynolds to Trafalgar
Installing granite pavers on the south side
Installing the storm sewer on Trafalgar Road from Lakeshore to Church
Removal of sidewalk on the north side
Finalize intersection excavation at Trafalgar
Trafalgar to Dunn
Silva cell excavation on the south side
Phase One
Complete concrete works at north east corner of George
Excavation of old sidewalk and installation of new sidewalk on the east side of George
Trafalgar Road Storm Sewer
Pipe was delivered. Installation has begun.
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Picture posted on Twitter by the Downtown BIA:
"An evening shot of Lakeshore Rd between Allan St and Reynolds St freshly paved."
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Region of Halton looking for feedback
on Regional Official Plan
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The Region is seeking community feedback by September 28, 2020, in two ways:
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Take the general questionnaire: Provide high-level feedback on theme areas relating to the Regional Official Plan.
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Complete the technical questionnaire: Provide detailed feedback on theme areas relating to the Regional Official Plan. The technical questionnaire contains questions on each of the five discussion papers. It is designed to enable participants to only answer those questions for which they have an interest.
You can access the Regional Official Plan discussion papers and other related information on the Regional Official Plan Review at:
LPS52-20 - Regional Official Plan Review - Natural Heritage Discussion Paper
LPS53-20 - Regional Official Plan Review - Rural and Agricultural System Discussion Paper
LPS54-20 - Regional Official Plan Review - Climate Change Discussion Paper
LPS55-20 - Regional Official Plan Review - North Aldershot Planning Area Discussion Paper
LPS56-20 - Regional Official Plan Review - Regional Urban Structure Discussion Paper
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Provincial Government announcements |
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Historic Agreement Delivers Over $230 Million for Child Care |
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The Ontario government, in partnership with the federal government, is providing $234.6 million in funding to keep children and staff safe in child care and early years settings. This funding will help support enhanced cleaning costs as well as health and safety requirements set out to support the reopening of licensed child care and early years programs. This funding is in addition to the Ontario government's continued commitment to stabilize the child care sector as many Ontarians return to work.
The announcement was made today by Premier Doug Ford, Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, and Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education.
"My number one priority is the health and safety of our children. Thanks to our federal partners, we're putting over $230 million on the table as part of the Safe Restart Agreement to help deliver our plan to reopen child care safely at full capacity in September," said Premier Ford. "With these additional supports in place, we have the best plan anywhere in the country, informed by the best medical advice and science available. Parents can have peace of mind knowing that every measure has been taken to keep their children and the staff who care for them safe."
The additional funding will help child care operators, EarlyON Child and Family Centres, and First Nations Child and Family Programs increase cleaning and infection control, ensure staff have access to personal protective equipment, promote physical distancing, purchase additional cleaning supplies, and support staffing needs.
"We are investing more in child care to ensure it is safe, accessible and affordable for working moms and dads," said Minister Lecce. "This agreement will ensure funding continues to flow so that child care remains available to parents as they return to work today and into the future."
"The availability of affordable and high-quality child care will be key to ensuring Canadian parents can return to work and our economy can recover from this crisis," said Ahmed Hussen, Canada's Minister of Families, Children and Social Development. "The Government of Canada is committed to supporting the child care sector to ensure all Canadian families will have access to the quality child care they need."
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Ontario Continues on the Path of Renewal, Growth, and Economic Recovery |
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Today, Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, issued the following statement on Statistics Canada's monthly employment release:
"Economic growth and recovery remains a key priority for our government in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Today, Statistics Canada released its monthly employment numbers, which showed an employment increase in Ontario of 150,700 in July and follows gains of 377,900 jobs - 66,200 of them manufacturing - in the month of June.
These new employment numbers are so much more than a statistic: they represent business owners and workers who are back on the job, families getting back on their feet, and communities beginning to flourish once again.
While these numbers are an indication that our economy is continuing to find its footing, the road of recovery will still be a long and difficult one. As the province gets back on the job, we will continue working with businesses to develop a comprehensive safety plan to better protect workers, customers and clients.
Over the last several months, our government has been working hand in hand with the people and businesses of Ontario to develop the right framework to safely reopen the economy and build a strong foundation for our future prosperity. From the introduction and passage of the COVID-19 Economic Recovery Act to the ongoing work of our Ontario Jobs and Recovery Committee, we have a made-in-Ontario plan to create more opportunities and bring jobs and prosperity back to every corner of our province."
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Ontario Making Travel Easier Across York, Peel and Halton Regions
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The Ontario government is taking steps to make commuting and travel easier in the Greater Toronto Area by confirming the Preferred Route for a new 400-series highway and transit corridor across York, Peel and Halton regions. Advancing the GTA West corridor will reduce travel times for drivers and support economic growth and job creation.
"The Greater Golden Horseshoe is an economic driver for the province and addressing transportation needs in this region is essential to the competitiveness of our economy," said Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation. "The GTA West Corridor will help alleviate traffic congestion and improve the movement of people and goods across the province."
The GTA West corridor will include a four-to-six lane 400-series highway, separate infrastructure dedicated for transit and passenger stations, as well as intelligent transportation features and truck parking. By 2031, the overall traffic on this route is expected to exceed 300,000 auto vehicles trips per day.
Feedback from public consultations have been reviewed in consideration of the confirmed Preferred Route and 2020 Focused Analysis Area. The Preferred Route incorporates feedback received from stakeholders and the public as well as new land use and environmental information.
The Preferred Route consists of the route and interchange locations for the GTA West corridor. Preliminary design and further consultations will be moving forward over the next two years as the design is further developed.
The Environmental Assessment (EA) for the GTA West Corridor is expected to be complete by the end of 2022.
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Government of Canada announcements |
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Joint statement from Minister Qualtrough, Minister Hussen, Minister Bains and Minister Chagger |
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Since the beginning of this crisis, we have focused on providing Canadians with the support they need as we work together to contain the spread of COVID-19. Today’s job numbers are a testament to the hard work and resiliency of Canadians in the face of this pandemic, and show that our plan is working, as more and more Canadians return to work.
These job numbers represent a historic moment for Canadian data collection. For the first time, the Labour Force Survey has collected data disaggregated by race and visible minority status. Maintaining a complete picture of our country and economy is critically important during this pandemic, and Statistics Canada is coordinating with all levels of government to produce accurate indicators of the social, health and economic impacts of COVID-19. Understanding how this pandemic is affecting Canadians from different backgrounds is a critical first step towards addressing inequity in our labour force. We know that the best decisions are based on the most inclusive data, and our Government will continue to monitor and track how this situation is impacting Canadians from all walks of life.
Many Canadians continue to face challenges during this time and we will continue to be there to support them. The health of Canadians remains our Government’s top priority. Together, we will get through this and build a better, more inclusive, and stronger Canada.
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Statement by the Deputy Prime Minister on US tariffs on imports of Canadian aluminum |
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“The August 6th announcement by the United States to impose tariffs on certain Canadian aluminum products, citing national security concerns, is unwarranted and unacceptable."
“Canadian aluminum does not undermine US national security. Canadian aluminum strengthens US national security and has done so for decades through unparalleled cooperation between our two countries. Canada is a reliable supplier of aluminum for American value-added manufacturers. Aluminum trade between Canada and the US has long been mutually beneficial economically for both countries, making the North American aluminum industry as a whole more competitive around the world."
“In the time of a global pandemic and an economic crisis, the last thing Canadian and American workers need is new tariffs that will raise costs for manufacturers and consumers, impede the free flow of trade, and hurt provincial and state economies."
“Further, with the new NAFTA having come into force on July 1st, now is the time to advance North American economic competitiveness — not hinder it. Through robust, new rules of origin for automobiles, the new NAFTA ensures 70 per cent of the aluminum purchased by North American automakers is produced in North America."
“Canada’s innovative aluminum industry provides approximately 10,000 well-paying direct jobs in primary aluminum production and supports tens of thousands more in related downstream sectors. The Government of Canada will always stand up for our aluminum workers across the country. We did so when the US imposed aluminum tariffs in 2018 and we will stand up for them again now. I know we can once again count on a Team Canada approach as we confront these unjustified tariffs on Canadian aluminum."
“In response to the American tariffs, Canada intends to swiftly impose dollar-for-dollar countermeasures.”
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B.C.'s active COVID-19 cases double in the past month |
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Early efforts to flatten the COVID-19 curve were successful, according to an analysis of serology tests that has given the province a baseline to better understand the spread of coronavirus through the population, Alberta's top doctor says.
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'COVID-19 is not done with us:' Manitoba reports 30 new cases on Thursday
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Provincial health officials announced there are 30 news cases of COVID-19 in Manitoba. Dr. Brent Roussin, the province's chief public health officer, made the announcement on Thursday afternoon.
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Walmart Canada making masks mandatory in all stores starting Aug. 12 |
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Walmart Canada has announced it is making masks or face coverings mandatory in all stores starting Aug. 12.
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India surpasses 2 million cases as health volunteers strike |
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As India hit another grim milestone in the coronavirus pandemic on Friday, crossing 2 million confirmed cases and more than 41,000 deaths, community health volunteers went on strike complaining they were ill-equipped to respond to the wave of infection in rural areas.
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Coronavirus: Africa now over 3M cases, but millions still untested |
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Africa’s confirmed coronavirus cases have surpassed one million, but global health experts say the true toll is likely several times higher, reflecting the gaping lack of testing for the continent’s 1.3 billion people.
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In other COVID-related news: |
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How COVID-19 attacks the body
Our perception of COVID-19 has changed dramatically over the past five months. What was initially thought to be a disease that affected the lungs, it is now seen as a systemic illness that targets virtually every part of the body.
Canada's Wonderland 'disappointed' with province's decision
Canada’s Wonderland says it is “disappointed to hear that we still haven’t received approval to open” in response to a decision by the Ford government to prevent it from reopening.
Quebec parents willing to go to court to keep kids out of classrooms
Constitutional lawyer argues parents should have option to keep children home while staying enrolled in school.
Some COVID-19 patients report hair loss months later
Some recovered coronavirus patients are experiencing hair loss and looking for help, Canadian dermatologists say.
New Normal: Elevators moving touchless, mobile and sideways
Lonnie Mackenzie, owner of Abco Elevator in Regina, has posted a video that offers three tips for a germ-free elevator ride.
Canada’s last fully intact Arctic ice shelf collapses
The last fully intact ice shelf in the Canadian Arctic has collapsed, losing more than 40% of its area in just two days at the end of July, researchers said on Thursday.
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Halton Environmental Network is launching Pop-up Clean-ups! The socially distanced clean-ups are a safe and fun way to enjoy the outdoors while making a difference in your community. Not only will you be cleaning up litter, but you’ll be tracking the waste you find. The collected data will empower our community to make informed decisions on how to protect our environment.
You can either lead a clean-up or take part in one! Students also have the opportunity to gain volunteer hours for school credit with each clean-up they do. If you are interested, please register here.
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Sign the CN intermodal e-Petition now |
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This e-Petition is a collaborative effort between Milton RAIL, Milton Says No and Halton Region, to serve as the response from Halton residents during this last, vital public consultation period in the environmental assessment process.
The Review Panel Report states that the Project (CN intermodal terminal AKA Milton Logistics Hub) is likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects on human health caused by air quality.
The Federal Government can still determine that the environmental effects to human health - 1,600 transport trucks on the roads every day plus the operation of a dangerous industrial facility - are justified. This would be set a devastating precedent for Canadian municipalities.
This petition is meant to ensure the Federal Government understands that significant adverse effects to human health cannot be justified.
Instructions:
1. Sign the petition
- There is no minimum age to sign
- Every signature, however, must have a unique email address (an email address may only be used once on the petition).
2. Watch for an email from the House of Commons! You must verify and confirm your signature, it will not count unless you complete this step.
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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.
Kerr Street Mission: 905-845-7485 or donate online at kerrstreet.com
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Oakville Meals on Wheels continues to operate
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Oakville Meals on Wheels continues to operate under increased safety measures.
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Call the COVID-19 hotline |
For the duration of the pandemic, if a member of the public wishes to report an incident of non-compliance with the emergency orders, they may contact the Halton Regional Police Service COVID-19 Hotline: 905-825-4722
It is critical that our residents use 911 for emergencies only.
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