January, 31 2024 Newsletter

Find your Ward here and your Council Members here

Black History Month Starts Feb 1

Council and community members joined Mayor Burton at town hall for a flag-raising ceremony. Mayor Burton also proclaimed February 2024 as “Black History Month” in the Town of Oakville.

Oakville proudly embraces Black History Month, a time to honour the rich and diverse tapestry of cultures that shape our vibrant community. This month offers us a unique opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the significant contributions and achievements of black individuals in our town and beyond, highlighting the enduring spirit and resilience that have played a crucial role in our collective history.

Click "Read more here" to learn and participate in all the Black History Month events for February.

Read more here

Proclamation

Proposed Midtown design concept public information meeting Feb. 15

On Thursday, February 15, 2024, town staff will present a proposed design concept and policy approach for Midtown Oakville, followed by a series of public engagement activities.

This is an informal 2-hour public event of community conversation and a chance to engage on key topics that matter to Oakville residents. Doors open at 6 p.m. Talks will begin at 6:30 p.m.

The agenda includes:

Presentation on Proposed Design Concept for Midtown Oakville
Tabletop activities and discussions with the project team

The meetings on January 30 and 31 will complete the Midtown Committee’s work, and feedback on the proposed concept will be used to shape the land use policy and forthcoming Midtown Official Plan Amendment.

The February 15 public information event will help feed into a draft Official Plan Amendment (OPA) which will reflect the proposed land use concept and then be the subject of public consultation.

The draft Midtown OPA will be posted in the first week of April, ahead of public meetings set for the last week of April. This initiates consultations, concluding with a statutory meeting. A final Midtown OPA is expected for Council deliberation by June 2024.

Presentation

Staff Report

Mayor Burton to attend Auto Theft Summit

Mayor Burton is committed to ensuring the safety and security of our town. It is in this spirit that he will be joining other mayors and national leaders at the upcoming National Summit on Combating Auto Theft, scheduled for February 8, 2024, in Ottawa.

This summit represents our collective efforts to tackle the sophisticated and transnational crime of auto theft, which has not only impacted Canadians but also fueled criminal organizations. The gathering will serve as a platform for leaders from key jurisdictions and sectors to forge a coordinated response to this pressing issue.

In anticipation of the summit, Mayor Burton wrote a letter to Minister Dominic LeBlanc, the Minister of Public Safety, to express our shared concerns and the urgent need for collaborative action. In the letter, on behalf of Ontario Auto Mayors, Mayor Burton emphasized that "the solution requires all levels of government and stakeholders to actively work to stop auto theft," urging for a more aggressive federal stance and enhanced security measures, particularly at the Port of Montreal.

Earlier this week, Oakville's Federal Member of Parliament, Anita Anand, shared a personal reflection on the issue, stating, "I come from Oakville, Ontario. I represent that riding, and I can tell you that everyone, I know, has had their vehicle stolen or has a friend who has had their vehicle stolen." She further highlighted the broader implications of auto theft, including its ties to organized crime and its significant economic impact, estimated at $1 billion per year in related

While we anticipate positive outcomes from these high-level initiatives, the role of individual and community vigilance remains paramount. I encourage all residents to explore the 'Safety Tips' section on the Halton Regional Police Service website, which offers practical advice on safeguarding your property and staying vigilant against break-ins and scams.

The Auto Theft Prevention Campaign launched by the Halton Regional Police Service provides insights and tips to protect your vehicles and contribute to our community's overall safety.

The Town of Oakville, in collaboration with provincial and federal partners, is steadfast in its resolve to combat this issue head-on. I look forward to sharing the outcomes of the summit and our continued efforts to safeguard our community against auto theft.

Full Release

Last Ford Edge April 26

Our local Ford Oakville Assembly Complex (OAC), is a cornerstone of our community's industrial landscape. The facility has undergone a significant transformation as it retools to manufacture five new electric vehicles. As part of this transition, the final U.S.-market Ford Edge is scheduled to roll off the assembly line on April 26th, 2024.

The Ford Edge, along with the Lincoln Nautilus, has been a staple product of the OAC, contributing to our local economy and employment for over a decade. Despite the Edge's popularity and its strong sales performance in most years, the decision to conclude its production aligns with Ford's strategic shift towards electric vehicles and an evolving automotive market.

The upcoming changes at the OAC not only mark the end of an era for the Ford Edge but also signal the beginning of a new chapter in Oakville's manufacturing history, with a focus on sustainability and innovation. This transition is a testament to the adaptability and forward-thinking nature of our community and its industries.

We all acknowledge the impact of such transitions on our workforce and community and are committed to supporting all stakeholders through this period of change. The future of automotive manufacturing in Oakville is bright, and we look forward to embracing these new opportunities together.

Read more here

Oakville Enterprises Corporation (OEC) Update for January 2024

This update provides insights into the company's recent achievements, operational excellence, and prospects.

Monthly Highlights

New Contracts and Expansions: OEC has successfully secured new contracts and expanded its service offerings. Notably, Trans Power was awarded a Master Services Agreement by Alectra for projects in South-West Guelph Region and West Hamilton. GTel is aiding Enbridge in pipeline patrols in northern Ontario, Planview secured a fibre-to-the-home program with Xplore, and QSP extended a two-year service agreement with Enbridge Gas.

Accelerating Innovation

FLISR Implementation: Oakville Hydro completed a system-wide Fault Location, Isolation, and Service Restoration (FLISR) implementation, enhancing recovery from feeder-level system outages and reducing outage minutes.

Operational Excellence

Improved Reliability: Oakville Hydro's power reliability improved in 2023, with total outage minutes averaging 23 minutes and less than one interruption per account. Over 7,000 asset field inspections were completed to inform maintenance and asset replacements, enhancing Oakville's distribution system.
Customer Tools: The launch of the MyOakvilleHydro price plan calculator enables customers to make informed decisions about electricity price plans based on their consumption history.

Empowering Oakville: Launch of Community Activation Grant Program

The Town of Oakville has announced its Community Activation Grant program, approved by Council with an annual budget of $35,000 to bolster grassroots community projects. This program offers up to $2,000 to community groups and individuals for small-scale events and initiatives that enhance community cohesion and belonging.

Application Process:

Interested parties should apply online at least two months prior to their event or initiative. Applications will be assessed based on their contribution to community belonging and adherence to program criteria. The Community Development team is ready to support applicants through this process. Visit the Community Activation Grant webpage for complete details, including eligibility and application guidelines.

Background:

The grant is part of the 2023 budget, reflecting Council's commitment to fostering community belonging. A detailed framework was presented to Council in September. After one year, a report on the program's impact will be provided to Council.

Mayor Rob Burton expressed his support, highlighting the program's potential to amplify the positive impact of community groups and individuals.

How to apply:

The application form requires basic project information, including the main applicant's contact details, project name, date, target audience, and project location. Projects should aim to enhance community belonging, addressing targeted needs such as neighbourly connectedness, reducing isolation among older adults, and promoting mental and physical wellness. Applicants must confirm location availability and submit a comprehensive application package, including a project summary, work plan, communication plan, and budget overview.

For assistance, contact affordableaccess@oakville.ca or call 905-845-6601, ext. 3630. The personal information collected is solely for the grant's administration and will remain confidential.

Apply Here

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.

Public Consultations

IDEA Multi-Year Plan feedback

You are invited to provide feedback on the draft Town of Oakville Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Multi-Year Plan. Feedback is due by January 31, 2024.

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.

More Parking Downtown

You are invited to attend and provide input at this videoconferencing meeting hosted by the Commissioner of Community Development.

Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. by videoconference broadcast from Town Hall, 1225 Trafalgar Road

The Planning Services department will be presenting a recommendation report concerning the proposed Temporary Use By-law at this meeting.

The purpose of this application is to permit a temporary use of the commercial parking area for a period of three years.

The effect of this application is to allow 17 parking spaces for paid parking in downtown Oakville. The subject lands are located south of Water Street and west of Navy Street.

Read the full notice

Road Closure on Allan Street

February 5 to 8, 2024

There will be a road closure on Allan Street between Sheddon Avenue and Palmer Avenue from February 5 to 8, 2024, for the installation of a sanitary main to service Wallace Park.

The detour route will be Palmer Avenue, Douglas Avenue and Sheddon Avenue. Local access will be maintained.

Local News

Data Insights – Halton’s unemployment rate decreased in 4th quarter

On January 5, Statistics Canada released the Labour Force Survey data for the fourth quarter of 2023. The data indicates that Halton’s unemployment rate decreased from 6.6% in Q3 to 5.3% in Q4 2023. Meanwhile, Halton’s labour force participation rate rose 2.2 percentage points over the previous quarter, averaging 69.0% in Q4 2023.

Read more here

Halton Region Business Conditions 2023 - Report

The 2023 Halton Region Business Conditions Survey highlights cautious optimism among local businesses, with 53% forecasting stable or improved economic conditions over the next 12 months, amidst concerns over inflation (60%) and climate change impacts. The report, based on responses from over 300 businesses across diverse sectors, notes key challenges including inflation, rising real estate costs, and the need for employee wellness policies, with a significant focus on adapting to climate change and sustaining workforce levels amidst economic uncertainties.

Read more here

Service Ontario now at your local Staples

ServiceOntario is expanding its reach right into our community. Starting February 1, a new ServiceOntario centre will open at Staples on 2460 Winston Churchill Boulevard, offering convenient access to essential services like health cards and driver's license renewals. This local addition promises extended operating hours and streamlined services, all designed to save you time and enhance accessibility.

Read more here

Oakville council rejects 10-storey mixed-use building plan

Oakville's planning council voted against a proposed 10-storey mixed-use building by Format Lakeshore Inc. in Kerr Village.

Read more here

Oakville moves ahead to expand housing options

The town plans to facilitate over 1,000 new homes and potentially secure $36 million in federal funding through these and other initiatives, pending successful application to the fund.

Read more here

Provincial News

Ontario Creating Three New Specialized Units for People with Dementia and Other Complex Needs

The Ontario government is investing $5.5 million to create three new Behavioural Specialized Units (BSUs) at long-term care homes in Brampton, Etobicoke, and Timmins, as well as increasing funding to all 21 specialized units across the province. These additional specialized beds are a part of the Your Health plan to connect individuals with complex care needs like dementia to care in the comfort of a home instead of a hospital.

Full Release

Ontario and Indiana Sign Agreement to Boost Trade and Investment

Ontario and Indiana have solidified their partnership with a new Memorandum of Understanding aimed at enhancing trade, investment, and collaboration in sectors like infrastructure and manufacturing. The agreement aims to bolster better economic cooperation and leverage emerging technologies for mutual growth.

Full Release

Federal News

Canada promises student housing help

The Canadian government has announced measures to accelerate the construction of student housing by offering low-cost loans for new projects as part of a broader economic plan to increase housing availability and affordability, particularly for students and young Canadians.

Full Release

Government of Canada announces federal support to prevent crime and combat auto theft in Ontario

The Government of Canada, in collaboration with Ontario officials, has announced a $121 million investment to combat gun and gang violence and auto theft in Ontario, marking a significant effort to address organized crime and its ramifications. A National Summit on Combating Auto Theft is set for February 8, aiming to foster a unified approach among government levels, industry, and law enforcement to tackle the increasing auto theft issue linked to organized crime.

Full Release

Government takes further action to build more homes, faster

As part of Canada's economic plan, the government announced further action to build more homes, faster, by supporting the construction of student housing.

Full Release

Statement on negotiations for Canada-Ukraine bilateral security commitments

Global Affairs Canada stated on January 26, 2024, that Government of Canada officials met with their Ukrainian counterparts for negotiations regarding Canada-Ukraine bilateral long-term security commitments.

Full Release