February 7, 2024 Newsletter

Find your Ward here and your Council Members here

Black History Month

activities for everyone

As we navigate through February and Black History Month, a series of events are scheduled to foster understanding and appreciation of the contributions and heritage of Black Canadians.

Notable events include educational workshops, art exhibitions, and cultural performances, each designed to deepen our collective insight into the black experience. We look forward to the storytelling session at the Oakville Public Library’s Glen Abbey Branch, Shaun Boothe’s Unauthorized Biographies at the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts, and the Resonance of Resilience lunch and learn event, among others.

If you haven't had the chance to view my discussion with Andrew Tyrrell, President of the Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton, I encourage you to do so. Please follow the link provided below to gain insights into the exciting initiatives the CCAH has planned for us this year.

Let this month serve as a reminder of our ongoing dedication to embracing and celebrating diversity. Each event this month is an opportunity to reflect on the past, engage with the present, and contribute to a future where every member of our community is valued and celebrated.

World Summit

Invites Mayor Burton

to Municipal Panel

Mayor Rob Burton is honoured to join the City Mayors Roundtable at the 11th World Governments Summit, scheduled from February 12 to 14 in Dubai. This session will feature 10 mayors, along with select national leaders, under the chairmanship of His Excellency Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti. The Roundtable aims to facilitate a rich exchange of ideas among mayors from diverse cities worldwide, including but not limited to Vienna, Hong Kong, and Astana, representing small, medium, and large municipalities from countries such as Bosnia, the Philippines, Mexico, Canada, Latvia, Nepal, Portugal, Kazakhstan, Nigeria, Hong Kong, and Austria.

The summit itself is a prestigious gathering, drawing over 4,000 delegates, including more than 300 prime ministers, 8 Nobel laureates, and distinguished figures from leading international organizations like the IMF, OPEC, and various UN agencies. With over 110 dialogues and 15 forums, the summit will delve into crucial issues like governance, technology, sustainable development, artificial intelligence, education, and healthcare, featuring contributions from over 200 speakers.

The Executive Council of Dubai will cover all travel expenses for Mayor Burton, ensuring no financial burden falls on Oakville's taxpayers. This participation marks a moment for Oakville, as it not only showcases the town's proactive approach to global governance discussions but also engages international leaders in shaping the future of municipal governance and addressing global challenges.

Auto Theft Summit

Invites Mayor Burton

The Équité Association’s 2023 Auto Theft Trend Report illustrates the continuation of the national auto theft crisis, following a historically high year in 2022.

Between 2021 and 2023, auto theft trends increased sharply in Ontario (up 48.2%), Quebec (up 57.9%), Atlantic Canada (up 34%), and Western Canada (up 5.5%).

The majority of vehicle thefts in Ontario (68%) and Quebec (75%) were vehicles made in 2017 or newer, primarily because organized crime rings are focusing their efforts on stealing new or luxury vehicles for maximum profit in overseas sales.

This is further illustrated by the recovery rates* in Ontario (44%) and Quebec (37%), which suggest vehicles were primarily being exported overseas through the ports or re-VINed and being used by criminal organizations or sold domestically to unsuspecting Canadians. SUVs were the most stolen vehicle type in Ontario (55%) and Quebec (64%).

The National Summit on Combatting Auto Theft, scheduled for this Thursday in Ottawa, will bring together key stakeholders from various sectors and jurisdictions to address the growing issue of auto theft. Mayor Burton, Chair of the Ontario Auto Mayors, will attend the summit and support a concerted effort to tackle this crisis.

Mayor Burton wrote a letter to Minister Dominic LeBlanc on January 26, 2024, urging the federal government to take a more aggressive approach to stop auto thefts and strengthen the security of the Port of Montreal by enabling the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) with more resources.

The Halton Police, with input from over 1,000 residents, aim to halve auto thefts as a key goal in their Strategic Plan for 2024–2027, reflecting Oakville's commitment to addressing local concerns and enhancing resident well-being.

“One Fare" to Save Riders $1,600

On Monday, the Province announced that beginning February 26, 2024, riders will pay only once as they transfer for free between the TTC and participating transit agencies in the Greater Toronto Area, including GO Transit.

The "One Fare" program will allow transit users to pay a single fare for transfers between GO Transit, the TTC, and other regional transit services in the GTHA, including Oakville. The aim is to simplify the payment process for users moving across different transit networks.

The program is anticipated to increase transit usage by 8 million new rides per year and provide savings of $1,600 per user annually.

For Oakville residents, the "One Fare" program enhances connectivity and aligns with the existing benefits for Oakville Transit users, such as free transfers to GO Transit and free travel for youth and seniors.

Downtown Plan Drives

Strong Growth Revival

Mayor Burton and the Council recognize the advancements in downtown Oakville's renewal, driven by the combined efforts of the BIA, Town Council, and Oakville's citizens.

Since 2019, this collaboration has led to the addition of 60 new enterprises and a 23% rise in visitor numbers. The current vacancy rate has decreased to 6.21%.

The Downtown Oakville Strategic Action Plan continues to shape these developments. The plan aims to balance Oakville's heritage with its future growth. This initiative underscores Oakville's commitment to being a premier destination.

Air Canada's 1st woman pilot

She Believed

She Could Fly

....So She did

Mayor Burton acknowledges Captain Judy Cameron for her contributions and achievements. Recognized for her pioneering role as Air Canada's first female pilot, Captain Cameron's career is marked by significant accomplishments and dedication to advancing women in aviation. Her 23,000 flying hours underscore a commitment to excellence and resilience.

Captain Cameron's impact extends beyond aviation, particularly through her involvement in mentoring and the Air Canada scholarship program bearing her name, aligning with Oakville's values of talent development and empowerment. Her recognition with the Order of Canada highlights a notable journey, contributing to the community and inspiring broader aspirations.



Mayor Burton expresses appreciation for Captain Cameron's influence on aviation, women's advancement, and the Oakville community, acknowledging her as a valued resident

Council Approves

Rental Housing Report

On Monday, February 5th, 2024, Council reviewed the Rental Housing Protection Guidelines and Transition Options Report, a key component of the Town’s Housing Strategy and Action Plan. This initiative, underpinned by the Rental Housing Protection By-law 2023-102, aims to preserve our town's rental and affordable housing stock during redevelopment projects.

The guidelines assist property owners and developers with compliance, ensuring no loss of affordable rental units. Transition provisions offer clarity for projects already underway when the By-law was enacted, maintaining fairness in its application.

This effort reflects our commitment to housing affordability and sustainability, with public consultation central to the process.

RBC Economist Forecasts

Rate Cuts, Lower Inflation

At a recent Oakville Chamber of Commerce event, Robert Hogue, Assistant Chief Economist at RBC, presented the economic outlook for 2024, focusing on key trends and their effects on both local and national levels.

Hogue predicts inflation will slowly decrease to align with the Bank of Canada's target by early 2025, indicating a shift in the economic environment following the pandemic.

The forecast also suggests a pause in interest rate increases, with reductions expected to begin in mid-2024, stabilizing at about three per cent. This adjustment is particularly relevant for the real estate sector and mortgage holders, marking a significant shift in the economic landscape.

Hogue discussed the possibility of a 'technical recession' in Canada, with some economic contractions anticipated. However, a recovery is expected to start in 2024, with a slight increase in unemployment to around 5.8 per cent, indicating a change from labour shortages to demand concerns.

The housing market may see a cautious recovery in the second half of 2024 due to more favourable interest rates, although affordability issues persist, requiring a slow recovery and increased construction to meet demand.

Oakville's manufacturing sector is likely to experience growth, supported by a competitive Canadian dollar and a stable economic forecast in the United States, contributing to the overall economic recovery through increased household spending.

Challenges in housing affordability depend on the construction industry's ability to expand and the collaborative efforts of government at various levels to tackle regulatory barriers and labour shortages in skilled trades.



This economic forecast highlights the importance of strategic planning and resilience within the community as we adapt to these changes, emphasizing the need for Oakville to remain informed and proactive in fostering growth and prosperity amidst the evolving economic conditions.

Empowering Oakville: Launch of Community Activation Grant Program

The Town of Oakville's Community Activation Grant program, with a $35,000 yearly budget, offers up to $2,000 for community projects enhancing cohesion. Applications are online, requiring submission two months in advance and evaluation based on community impact. The program, part of the 2023 budget, will be reviewed after a year. Mayor Rob Burton supports its potential to boost community initiatives.

Applicants need to detail the project's purpose, date, audience, and location, aiming to improve community belonging and address specific social needs. The application must include a summary, work plan, communication strategy, and budget. For help, contact affordableaccess@oakville.ca or 905-845-6601, ext. 3630. Personal information is confidential and for grant management only.

Summer Creativity Unleashed: 2024 Art Camps at Oakville Galleries

Registration is now open for the 2024 Summer Art Camps at Oakville Galleries in Gairloch Gardens, running from July 2 to August 23, with eight themed weeks designed to inspire creativity in campers aged 6-12.

The program includes a diverse range of artistic activities, from drawing and painting to mixed media, all tailored to individual skill levels and interests, under the guidance of experienced staff.

In addition to art-making, campers will enjoy outdoor activities in the scenic Gairloch Gardens, enhancing their camp experience with play and exploration. The camps conclude weekly with a pop-up exhibition, allowing campers to showcase their unique creations to friends and family.

Register and secure your spot before they are gone!

Meet Midtown: Public Consultation and Conversation

Join us on Thursday, February 15, 2024, when we will present a proposed design concept and policy approach for Midtown Oakville, followed by a series of public engagement activities. Register on Eventbrite.

Multi-Year Accessibility Plan survey

Fill out the online survey by February 25 to share your input on the town's 2024-2029 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan. Your feedback will help shape the town’s accessibility priorities over the next five years.

Transportation Master Plan survey

Complete our online survey to share your feedback by February 29, 2024.

Halton Region's Housing Market Sees Price Dip but Increased Sales in January 2024

In January 2024, Halton Region's average home price fell by 12.2% to $1.14 million from the previous month, despite a significant 29.7% increase in sales and a decrease in active listings by 8.1% year-over-year. While detached houses experienced a notable price drop, apartment-style condos bucked the trend with an 11% price increase.

Halton police plan aims to cut auto theft

The Halton Police's draft strategic plan for 2024-2027, presented to the Halton Police Board, aims to significantly reduce auto theft by 50% in the region through multi-jurisdictional efforts, stakeholder collaboration, and advanced policing technologies. This initiative is part of a broader set of objectives focusing on crime resolution, community satisfaction, police member wellness, and targeted enforcement in areas like intimate partner violence and road safety, based on community feedback from over 1,000 surveyed residents.

Successful Recovery of Stolen Vehicles Bound for Dubai

Halton Regional Police, in collaboration with the Canada Border Services Agency, have successfully retrieved four stolen vehicles initially destined for Dubai, with the ongoing investigation stemming from a 2023 case. The recovery, valued at approximately $200,000, underscores the effectiveness of international law enforcement cooperation and highlights the continuing efforts to combat auto theft.

Introducing Halton's Safe Exchange Zone: A Secure Spot for Your Online Transactions"

The Halton police have introduced a secure Buy & Sell Exchange Zone in Oakville to ensure safety during private transactions, complete with surveillance and safety tips for those unable to use the zone.

Allan Street: Weeklong Closure for Construction

Allan Street in downtown Oakville will undergo closures this week for essential sewer installation works, with sections between Sheddon Avenue and Palmer Avenue closed until February 8, 2024, and earlier closures between Sumner Avenue and Church Street until January 15, 2024. Despite these disruptions, residents will maintain access to their homes, with detour routes clearly marked via Palmer Avenue, Douglas Avenue, and Sheddon Avenue to facilitate local travel during this infrastructural enhancement period.

Ontario and Canada Double Investment in Market Expansion Initiative

The Canadian and Ontario governments are enhancing their support for the agri-food sector by doubling their investment to $12 million in the Grow Ontario Market Initiative, aimed at expanding sales and markets for agri-food businesses and industry organizations. This initiative, part of a broader strategy to increase agri-food trade and promote Ontario's diverse agricultural products, includes recent efforts like a successful trade mission to Mexico to boost grain and bakery product sales.

Pediatric Care in Peel and Halton Regions with $5.6 Million Funding Boost

Ontario commits $5.6 million to expand pediatric services in Peel and Halton regions, ensuring timely, community-based care for children and youth. This investment, part of a broader $330 million annual increase in pediatric health services, aims to improve access to essential services such as rehabilitation, mental health support, and emergency care, enhancing the well-being of families in these communities.

New Planning Rules Complicate Housing Construction

Despite the intention of Ontario's Bill 109 to expedite housing construction, builders report that new municipal pre-approval processes have made development more costly and time-consuming, contradicting the law's goals

Canada's Housing Crisis: A Forecasting Failure Exacerbates Affordability Issues

Benjamin Tal, CIBC's deputy chief economist, highlights a critical underestimation in Canada's housing needs, advocating for the construction of five million extra units by 2030, a significant leap from the previous 3.5 million estimate, due to outdated population growth forecasts. This miscalculation, stemming from inadequate planning for non-permanent residents, intensifies the affordability crisis, with current projections falling far short of the burgeoning demand.

Canada Boosts Rent and Grocery Affordability

The Canadian government, led by Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, announced a comprehensive plan to enhance affordability by providing additional rent support to low-income renters and increasing emergency shelter spaces, alongside initiatives to reduce grocery prices by addressing corporate practices contributing to high costs. This action includes a $99 million top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit, $100 million for emergency shelter funding, and increased support for consumer advocacy groups to tackle issues like price inflation and shrinkflation in the grocery sector.

The government announces a two-year extension to ban foreign ownership of Canadian housing

The federal government has extended the ban on foreign ownership of Canadian housing until January 1, 2027, to address affordability and speculative concerns. This move is part of a broader strategy to increase housing accessibility and affordability for Canadians, alongside significant federal investment in housing construction and support programs.

Canada Announces Over $4 million to Support

and Create Good Jobs in Ontario

Canada has announced a $4.2-million investment in Ucore Rare Metals Inc. to enhance the commercial viability of a new rare earth element separation technology, supporting the domestic electric vehicle value chain and creating jobs, including opportunities for Indigenous communities. This initiative, funded through the Critical Minerals Research, Development, and Demonstration program, aims to bolster Canada's role in the sustainable production of critical minerals essential for the green and digital economy.

Canadian Building Permits Decline in December

In December, Canada experienced a significant 14.0% drop in the value of building permits, with notable decreases across most provinces, especially Ontario, despite slight gains in the industrial and commercial sectors.

Minister Hussen to Announce New Youth Internship Opportunities

Minister Ahmed Hussen will announce new funding for the International Youth Internship Program (IYIP) to provide opportunities for young Canadians, with a press conference featuring YMCA representatives set for February 6, 2024, in Victoria, BC.

Federal government rejects Windsor's request for money from housing fund

The federal government has declined Windsor's request for funding from the Housing Accelerator Fund, citing the city's proposals as lacking in ambition. Housing Minister Sean Fraser emphasized the need for Windsor to adopt more robust measures, like ending exclusionary zoning, to significantly increase housing development.

Windsor's Housing Development Discrepancy

The Ontario and federal governments claim Windsor hasn't met its home-building goals, while Windsor argues the provincial tracker underestimates its achievements, especially with a potential $10-million in funding at stake over three years. The city asserts it exceeded its 2023 target by 21 percent with 1,154 residential permits issued, challenging the province's reliance on housing starts as a metric and highlighting the misalignment in tracking methods between government levels.

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

oakvillefoodbank@gmail.com

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

Nourishing Neighbours Food Bank

Date: Every Thursday from 4:00pm to 5:30pm

Location: St. Luke's Anglican Church & Community Centre (3114 Dundas St W, L6M 4J3)

- All clients need to call 905-825-3364 to register

- All clients must be a resident of Oakville

Town of Oakville

1225 Trafalgar Road,

Oakville, Ontario

mayor@oakville.ca

905-845-6601