August 7, 2024 Newsletter

Find your Ward here and your Council Members here

Fall program registration opens Wednesday, August 14 at 7 a.m.

Mark your calendars! Registration for Oakville's fall recreation and culture programs opens on Wednesday, August 14 at 7 a.m. This is a great opportunity for residents of all ages and abilities to explore a variety of exciting activities that promote a healthy and creative lifestyle.

Diverse Programs for All Ages

From sports and fitness classes to arts and cultural workshops, Oakville offers something for everyone. Take advantage of the fall season to get active, learn new skills, and make new friends.

Seniors Services

Seniors are encouraged to browse our fall and winter Seniors Services digital guide for a wide range of program options. Remember, a valid Seniors Services membership is required for both drop-in and sessional programming. Ensure your membership is up to date for the course start date to avoid any issues.

Membership Reminder

When pre-registering for a seniors program, make sure your membership is valid beyond the start date of the course. For example, if you register in August for a program starting on September 20, your membership must be valid through and beyond September 20. Renew your membership ahead of time if needed to

secure your spot.

Need Help?

To register, sign in to your Recreation and Culture account. Register early to avoid disappointment, as many programs fill up quickly.

For assistance, email recreation@oakville.ca or call 905-815-2000 from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and from 7 a.m. on registration day.

Don't miss out on the chance to enhance your fall with Oakville's diverse program offerings!

Outdoor Candlelight Series by Oakville Symphony opens this weekend

Music lovers are in for a treat this weekend as the Oakville Symphony kicks off its Outdoor Candlelight Series on August 10, 2024. From 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Lakeside Park will transform into a magical haven, offering an enchanting evening under the stars.

The Candlelit Concert event promises to be a captivating experience, featuring the talented members of the Oakville Symphony. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and cozy up as they immerse themselves in the mesmerizing sounds of the symphony.

Established in 1967, the Oakville Symphony has been a cornerstone of the community's cultural scene, dedicated to providing inspiring musical experiences for audiences of all ages. This event is no exception, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy beautiful music in an intimate outdoor setting.

Don't miss out on this unforgettable evening that combines the beauty of live symphonic music with the charm of a candlelit atmosphere. Join us in Lakeside Park for a night of music, magic, and community spirit.

Oakville’s Taylor Perry shines in Canada’s Olympic Rugby Success

Oakville’s own Taylor Perry brought pride to her hometown by playing a crucial role in the Canadian Women's Sevens team’s silver medal win at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Perry, alongside fellow Queen's University athlete Chloe Daniels, showcased exceptional skill and determination throughout the tournament.

In a gripping semifinal match, Perry and Daniels helped Canada secure a thrilling victory over Australia, earning a spot in the gold medal match against New Zealand. Daniels was pivotal in Canada’s journey, scoring a decisive last-minute try in the quarterfinals to defeat host France 19-14. She continued her stellar performance in the finals by scoring a try and a conversion.

This silver medal represents Rugby Canada’s best-ever Olympic performance in rugby sevens.



Perry’s outstanding performance has not only highlighted her talent but has also put Oakville on the Olympic map. Congratulations to Team Canada for their historic achievement!

Emancipation Day at Erchless Estate

Mayor Burton attending the Emancipation Day Picnic on August 5, 2024

On August 5, 2024, the Town of Oakville and the Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton (CCAH) hosted the annual Emancipation Day Picnic at the Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate.



Mayor Rob Burton attended the event, joining the community in the vibrant celebration. He enjoyed a delicious Caribbean meal prepared by Chef Romaine Newell. Up to 300 meals were available, and for the kids, hotdogs, chips, and juice boxes were provided. Meals were served from 1 to 3 p.m.

Attendees brought lawn chairs and blankets to relax while enjoying the Voices of Praise choir, led by Kevin Adams. Families participated in activities with entertainer Nick Gordon and explored Oakville’s Black history through walking tours, museum exhibits, and the Oakville Public Library's Storytime and "Library on the Go."

In addition to the picnic, several other events were held to commemorate Emancipation Day. On August 1, a dedication plaque was unveiled at the CCAH Community & Harmony Garden at Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre. On August 4, guided tours of Bronte Harbour and Kerr Village were available, highlighting Oakville’s Black heritage.

Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund Update 

The Ontario government announced the first project that will be funded from its Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund in Mississauga. Premier Ford announced the province is providing the Regional Municipality of Peel with $35 million to support the expansion of the G.E. Booth Water Resource Recovery Facility. This first round will see the province invest $970 million in 54 projects across 60 municipalities to help municipalities develop, repair, rehabilitate and expand drinking water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure. 

Earlier this year, Halton Regional Council directed staff to submit an application for available funding under the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund for regional water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure included in the Dundas Street widening from four to six lanes from Tremaine Road to Bronte Road project. The project is essential for delivering Regional servicing to lands which are currently not serviced in northwest Oakville and northeast Burlington. Halton Region was eligible to apply for up to $35 million in funding based on the criteria provided by the Ontario government. 

Halton Region has a shared objective with the Province of Ontario and the Local Municipalities to advance housing supply and is proactively planning for, financing, and delivering the more than $5.2 billion of water, wastewater and roads infrastructure required to support acceleration of growth to 2031. Approximately $2.1 billion of this program is identified for water and wastewater infrastructure. 

Applications for youth-led climate action projects closed

Mayor Rob Burton has officially closed the applications for the Youth Climate Action Fund.



The next step involves reviewing the submitted applications and selecting the winners. Those chosen will be notified soon.

Stay tuned for the announcement of the list of winners!

Oakville Crusaders utilize OTF grant

New irrigation system in use on the main field

I am delighted to share a story that underscores the power of community collaboration and support. One of our local clubs recently completed a significant project to secure a regional water supply, dramatically improving the quality and safety of their playing fields.

Thanks to a generous $150,000 grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) awarded in late 2023, and an additional $43,000 raised by dedicated club members this year, the club successfully purchased an irrigation reel and extended the regional water main supply to the North Field. Construction was completed last week, with the installation of above-ground polyethylene piping that efficiently waters all fields using an irrigation reel and full-field sprinkler system.

Previously, the club could only irrigate its main pitch, relying on costly and environmentally unfriendly water trucking. Now, with the new system in place, the playing surfaces' safety and durability have improved significantly, much to the delight of club members and Mother Nature alike.

This project is a game changer for the club, allowing it to enhance the quality of its programming and facilities for all residents. It is a shining example of what we can achieve together.

I invite you to visit the club and witness the transformation. Let's continue to work together to make Oakville an even better place to live, work, and play.

Crusaders playing on fields in recent years

Town of Oakville prepares for 2025 budget

In response to a request from Councillor Adams during the June 17, 2024, Budget Committee meeting, Oakville staff have compiled a forecasted 2025 overall increase chart for other municipalities using currently available public information. As additional data becomes available, an updated chart will be provided in the fall.

2025 Budget: Key Dates

• June 18 to September 25: Residents are invited to provide input on the budget during the public consultation period.
• September 26: The Budget Committee will review and discuss feedback received from residents.
• October 22 and 24: Town staff will present the draft budget to the Budget Committee.

Residents are encouraged to participate in the public consultation process to ensure their voices are heard and considered in the 2025 budget planning. This is an opportunity to influence decisions that will impact the community and contribute to the town's financial planning.

For more information on how to participate in the public consultation and provide feedback, please visit the Town of Oakville's official website.

Movies in the Park returns

Oakville's beloved summer tradition, Movies in the Park, is back on Wednesday nights from July 10 to August 21! Starting at 6:30 p.m., enjoy family-friendly activities followed by a free movie at sunset.

Bring a picnic blanket, your favorite snacks, and arrive early to snag a good spot. Engage with friends and neighbors, visit the Oakville Public Library’s Library on the Go book bike, and meet Sparky and Oakville Fire crews (excluding Munn’s Creek Park) to learn about fire safety.

Movie Schedule and Locations:

• August 7: E.T. at Forster Park, 100 North Forster Park Drive
• August 14: Shrek at Fowley Park, 106 Fowley Drive
• August 21: The Parent Trap at Valleybrook Park, 1150 Valleybrook Drive

Weather and Parking:

In case of bad weather, movies may move indoors. Follow Oakville on X, Instagram, or Facebook for updates. Parking is limited at some parks, so consider walking, biking, or taking Oakville Transit.

Don't miss out on this fun community event!

Sparky's dog days of summer

Join us this summer for Sparky's Dog Days of Summer, hosted by the Oakville Fire Department. From July 10 to August 21, Wednesday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., families are invited to various locations across Oakville for fun-filled activities and valuable fire safety tips.

Event Highlights:

• Meet the Oakville Fire Department crew and explore a fire truck.
• Enjoy the splash pad and participate in engaging activities.
• Learn practical fire prevention tips to keep your family safe.

Food and Drinks:

Panago Pizza will be selling pizza slices for $2 each, and Fortinos South Oakville will provide water or pop for $1 each. All proceeds from food sales will support the Lion Foundation of Canada Dog Guides.

Dates and Locations:

• August 7: Forster Park, 100 North Forster Park Drive
• August 14: Fowley Park, 95 Fowley Drive
• August 21: Valleybrook Park, 1150 Valleybrook Drive

Weather Contingency:

In the event of rain or severe weather, each event will be rescheduled to the following day from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Stay tuned for updates.

Bronte Harbour Banquet and Conference Centre Second Floor Lease

Town staff seek authorization to enter into an agreement with Catch Hospitality Group to operate an event space on the second floor of the Bronte Harbour Banquet and Conference Centre, located at 2340 Ontario Street. The agreement will be finalized under terms satisfactory to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and Town Solicitor.

Lower Morrison and Lower Wedgewood Creeks Flood Mitigation Opportunities Study

Town staff seek Council approval for the Notice of Completion for the Lower Morrison and Lower Wedgewood Creeks Flood Mitigation Opportunities Study, Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Study be published, commencing a 30-day public review period from September 1, 2024, to September 30, 2024.

Saville Area Stormwater System Improvement Study

Town staff seek Council approval for the Notice of Completion for the Saville Area Stormwater System Improvement Study, Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Study be published, commencing a 45-day public review period from September 16 to October 31, 2024

Joshua Creek Flood Mitigation Opportunities Study

Town staff seek Council approval for the Notice of Completion for the Joshua Creek Flood Mitigation Opportunities Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Study be published, commencing a 30-day public review period from September 1, 2024 to September 30, 2024.

Ontario Helping Seniors in Northeastern Ontario Stay Fit, Healthy and Active

The Ontario government is investing more than $1.6 million in seniors services and activities to help more seniors in Northeastern Ontario stay fit, active, healthy, and social connected in their communities and closer to home.

Governments Investing in Food Safety and Industry Growth

The governments of Canada and Ontario are investing up to $5 million, through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), to help the important small businesses in the agriculture and food industry enhance their food safety systems and stimulate growth.

Ontario’s Water Infrastructure Investments Helping Build More Than 500,000 New Homes

The Ontario government is helping enable the construction of more than 500,000 new homes across the province through the first round of investments from the province’s Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund. This first round will see the province invest $970 million in 54 projects across 60 municipalities to help municipalities develop, repair, rehabilitate and expand drinking water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure. In response to the high demand for funding, the government is also allocating an additional $250 million for a second round of applications starting on August 14, bringing the total amount in the fund to $1.2 billion.

Ontario Celebrates Opening of New Specialized Behavioural Unit at Kipling Acres Long-Term Care

The Ontario government is celebrating the opening of a 17-bed Behavioural Specialized Unit (BSU) at Kipling Acres long-term care home in Etobicoke that will connect residents with cognitive conditions, like dementia to the care they need.

Minister Blair announces contract award for new 480-room military accommodations facility at CFB Esquimalt and highlights plan to build more homes on military bases

Today, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, announced that a new, 480-room accommodations facility for Canadian Armed Forces members will be built at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt – and that a contract has been awarded to begin design work.

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