Dear Ward 7 Residents,
Twinkling lights and frosty nights,
A season of joy and festive delights!
Here’s to a holiday filled with cheer,
From our community, near and dear.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
As we bid farewell to 2024 and embrace the magic of the holiday season, I invite you to reflect on the wonderful moments you have created, shaped, shared and been part of and look forward to the exciting opportunities ahead for our vibrant community.
What’s Happening in Town
Oakville’s 2025 Budget: Building a Brighter Tomorrow
Oakville Town Council adopted the 2025 Budget, ensuring continued growth and livability. With a modest 4.91% tax increase—the lowest among neighboring municipalities—the budget prioritizes investments like:
$14.9 million for new parks and trails.
$17.7 million for transit vehicle upgrades.
$5.7 million for River Oaks Community Centre Ice Rink replacement.
$4.3 million to expand our tree canopy and preserve the environment.
Learn more about the budget and its highlights here.
Oakville Ranked #1 for Livability in Ontario
It came with no surprise! Oakville has been once again recognized as Ontario’s most livable city and among Canada’s top 10 by The Globe and Mail. This accolade celebrates our town’s excellence in healthcare, education, amenities, and safety, making Oakville a welcoming, vibrant place for families, merchants, students, workers and visitors alike.
Find out more about this achievement here.
Culture Shines Bright: Oakville #1 in Canada for Culture Days
With over 280 events during Culture Days 2024, Oakville ranked first in Canada! This milestone highlights our community’s creativity and passion for arts and heritage. Thank you to all who participated and contributed to making Oakville a cultural beacon.
Read more about Culture Days here.
Oakville Approves Predatory Towing By-Law Ban
Effective February 28, 2025, Oakville's new by-law bans predatory towing without vehicle owner consent on both private and public property. This measure ensures fair towing practices, safeguards residents, and prevents fraudulent activities.
Learn more about the by-law and its implications here.
Crime Stoppers of Halton Launches Community Watch Program
Crime Stoppers of Halton has introduced its Community Watch pilot program in Oakville’s Ward 3, empowering residents to safely report suspicious activity and promote safer neighborhoods. This initiative strengthens community involvement in crime prevention.
Residents can submit anonymous tips by calling the secure tip line at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or visiting www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca. You may also learn more about this important program here.
@Ward 7
Accessibility Milestone: Sixteen Mile Community Centre and Library Achieves Gold Rating
Oakville’s commitment to fostering inclusion and accessibility has been recognized with Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certifications (RHFAC) for three town facilities in 2024. The Sixteen Mile Community Centre and Library, set to open in 2025, achieved the prestigious Gold rating, marking it as one of only a few pre-construction sites in Canada to do so. Additionally, Trafalgar Park Community Centre and Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre earned certifications this year, bringing the total number of RHFAC-certified facilities in Oakville to five.
These achievements reflect the town’s dedication to ensuring public spaces are accessible and welcoming to all residents and visitors.
Development and Site Plan Applications Update
Stay informed about ongoing development projects in Ward 7, featuring applications for residential, commercial, and community spaces. Recent updates highlight proposed developments and approvals along Trafalgar Road and Dundas Street, shaping the future of our vibrant community.
To explore these projects and their impact, visit the Ward 7 Development Applications.
Winter Is Here: Snow Clearing Services ❄️
When the snow falls, Oakville’s dedicated crews are ready to clear roads and sidewalks effectively. Primary and secondary roads are prioritized to ensure emergency vehicles can travel safely, followed by residential streets when snow accumulation exceeds 7.5 centimeters. All streets are typically cleared within 24 hours after a storm ends, though heavy or consecutive snowfalls may require additional time.
Learn more about Oakville’s snow clearing services here.
Key Events
Santa’s Visit @Ward 7
Families enjoyed a magical day filled with smiles, laughter, and festive treats, thanks to Puckz Pub’s delicious hot chocolate, live music from PEN Education Centre, and the support of amazing volunteers.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Mayor Rob Burton kicked off the holiday festivities with ward 7 residents at Fowley park, making it a memorable evening of joy and community spirit.
Christmas Bazaar
The event at St. Peter and St. Paul Coptic Orthodox Church brought neighbour's together for a wonderful kickoff to the festive season filled with joy, connection, and holiday spirit.
New Stars Swimming Club
Congratulations to Lucas Bi, who broke the Canadian short-course 100m backstroke record. Mayor Rob Burton presented him with a certificate of achievement, celebrating his remarkable accomplishments. We couldn't be prouder of Oakville's own Lucas, who also holds four Ontario records-a true inspiration!
Upcoming
Join us at the Mayor and Council's Levee
Mayor and Council’s Levee: Ring in the New Year with Oakville’s annual gathering on Sunday, January 5, 2025, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Town Hall. Enjoy cultural performances, meet Mayor Rob Burton and Council members, and celebrate our community’s diversity. Learn more here.
2025 Lunar New Year Celebration
Join us at Town Hall on February 1 to celebrate the Lunar New Year with festive activities and performances. Details coming soon.
As the snowflakes fall and the lights glow bright,
Let’s cherish the joy of this festive night.
Here’s to laughter, love, and dreams come true,
From my family to each of you.
Summer Camp Recruitment
We're on the lookout for motivated individuals aged 15+ to join our team for a variety of summer camp roles. Offering competitive wages, flexible hours, and the opportunity to work in a fun, inclusive environment, this is the perfect chance to gain valuable experience while working with all ages and abilities. Apply today at oakville.ca and make this summer one to remember!
May your holiday season be filled with cheer.
And happiness follows you through the New Year!
Ward Regards,
Dr. Scott Xie
Town Councillor, Ward 7 Oakville
Scott Xie
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