Dear Ward 7 Residents,
As 2023 draws to a close, I am honoured to reflect on our collective effort throughout the year. It has been a year of remarkable accomplishments, memorable events and shared experiences that have enriched our community spirit and reaffirmed my determination to serve you better - the residents of Ward 7. On the last day of 2023, I would like to update you on the work we accomplished and other tasks that are well underway.
Our Town in 2023
Expanding Access to Free Public Transit
In April, after my continuing advocacy and collaboration with stakeholders, we made significant strides by introducing free Oakville Transit rides for our youth and seniors, ensuring greater accessibility and mobility within our town. Just as you read through this letter, someone in your household or in your neighbourhood could be riding Oakville Transit for free. This is truly music to our ears. Learn more on this great initiative here.
Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion
The Council's unanimous proclamation of May as Asian Heritage Month underscored our commitment to honoring the invaluable contributions of individuals of Asian descent to our community. Through vibrant events and activities, we celebrated the diverse cultural heritage of our Asian communities at Ward 7 and across from the town, fostering inclusion and appreciation for our rich tapestry of cultures. Further recognizing the importance of diversity, the Mayor’s Proclamation marked Chinese Exclusion Act Day on June 23, emphasizing our dedication to acknowledging the lesson in the past and the importance of forging an inclusive community celebrating diversity and pluralism.
Advocating for Enhanced Driveway Windrow Snow Clearing Services
Ward 7 residents have been voicing their concerns for years on the snow windrow clearing challenges on the curbside and certain major crossings. It is a persistent issue that has affected many and kept me up at night during winter time. As the snow season approaches, we ought to do better. Despite the shortage of this item in the 2023-2024 budget, my pledge to work on a sustainable solution with the council is ongoing and am laser focused to bring all options on the table aiming to reach a measured resolution among council colleagues and stakeholders.
Ward 7 in 2023
New Community Centre and Recreation Complex to Open in 2024 through 2025
Town of Oakville commenced the construction of a groundbreaking recreation and culture complex in north Oakville with a ceremonial groundbreaking event. Situated north of Neyagawa Boulevard and Dundas Street, this expansive community park will offer an array of outdoor amenities, including additional lit sports fields (including one with artificial turf), a cricket field, skateboard park, bike pump track, splash pad, children’s playground, field house, and washroom facility. The adjacent community centre and library, seamlessly connected to the existing Sixteen Mile Sports Complex, will boast versatile, multi-use spaces tailored to cater to diverse programs and services for people of all ages and abilities. Stay tuned for further updates as we monitor closely on the progression of this exciting project.
Enhanced Education Resources underway for Oakville North
North Oakville is undergoing remarkable educational expansions with the introduction of new schools. Plans for the first-ever high school received zoning approval from the Town's Planning and Development Council. The envisioned three-story school, covering 144,000 square feet, will feature 53 classrooms, 18 portables, a sports field, and ample parking. Additionally, a daycare facility accommodating 88 children will be part of this educational complex, representing a significant step forward.
Simultaneously, the Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB) initiated the groundbreaking for the North Oakville #4 Catholic Elementary School. Located at 420 Threshing Mill Blvd., this two-storey school will serve 671 students upon completion, scheduled for September 2024, with a budget surpassing $24 million.
Further addressing the community's educational needs, the Halton District School Board (HDSB)is set to hold a groundbreaking ceremony for Oakville NE #3 PS on June 2. Expected to open in 2024-2025, this three-story school at 1235 Wheat Boom Drive will accommodate 788 students from Kindergarten to Grade 8. With modern facilities and childcare rooms for 88 students, it aims to ease enrollment pressures while providing a conducive learning environment.
Addressing Community Safety & Auto Theft
Ensuring the safety of our roads is paramount for our community's well-being. As we continue striving for a safer road condition, we are delighted to implement a series of measures aimed at calming speeds and enhancing road safety within Ward 7 and beyond.These speed calming measures align with our dedication to creating a safer and more livable community for all residents. By working together and embracing responsible driving practices, we can effectively reduce the risk of accidents and ensure the safety of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists at Ward 7.
Aside from road safety, the escalation in auto theft cases by 22% in Oakville has prompted the Council to advocate for increased measures to tackle the issue. Recently, the Council unanimously backed a resolution put forth by Ontario's Big City Mayors. This resolution urges the federal government to intensify inspections on shipping containers used for exporting stolen vehicles and mandates car manufacturers to incorporate theft-deterrent technologies in all new vehicle models across Canada. Furthermore, I joined my council colleagues in calling upon the province to enforce the involvement of a certified mechanic for a physical VIN inspection during the mandatory safety inspection required for vehicle transfers. While we continue this important work with our provincial and federal partners, I would like to express gratitudes to Halton Police, Oakville Fire Department and first responders across from the region in keeping us safe, and urge all residents to stay vigilant in the neighbourhood during the holiday season.
Cheers to our shared moments
As we conclude this year, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you for your continuous support, engagement, and passion in making Ward 7 a better place to live. In the coming year, we will strive to build upon our achievements, address challenges, and continue working together to accomplish more for this great community we proudly call home.
Wishing you and your loved ones a peaceful and joyous holiday season and a prosperous New Year.
Warm regards,
Scott Xie