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www.insideHALTON.com | OAKVILLE BEAVER | Thursday, April 9, 2015 | 12 Halton Region adopts strategic plan looking to 2018 by Bob Mitchell Special to the Beaver Halton has its priorities set for the next few years with last week's adoption of the Region's Strategic Action Plan. Extensive consultation with residents, businesses, community partners and regional staff has resulted in more than a dozen priorities that will shape the Region's future from 2015 to 2018, Regional Chair Gary Carr said in a release following the approval of the plan. "Regional Council's Strategic Action Plan focuses on delivering high quality, costefficient programs and services that meet the evolving needs of the community," Carr said. "I'm confident the plan reflects the priorities and the needs of the entire community. "By working together we have shaped a bright future for Halton Region." The priorities have been organized into six specific areas. · Planning Healthy, Complete Communities -- what is needed for complete, active, healthy communities served by high-quality infrastructure. Mississauga's Favourite Italian Cuisine Private Dining Available Ideal for Corporate Functions and Family Events Halton Regional council has given the green light to its strategic plan through 2018. | Oakville Beaver file photo 905 822 5751 www.michaelsbackdoor.com 1715 Lakeshore Road West Included in this section are improvements to the Region's transportation network and the delivery of infrastructure necessary to support growth in existing urban areas. These programs include an investment of $480 million in the Regional road capital program. It also includes the promotion of an integrated transportation network that supports walking, cycling, transit, and passenger vehicles and goods movement. Improved co-ordination with the local municipalities to ensure construction-related traffic disruptions are minimized, and that residents are well informed are also desired. There is also a need to work with the Province to develop strategies for new and redesigned highways and highway interchanges throughout Halton in order to support growth and economic development. · Growing the Regional Economy ­ what is needed to support and sustain a strong regional economy and agricultural sector. Included is development and re-development of 2,700 gross acres of employment areas as key drivers of Halton's economy, the promotion of Halton to attract new businesses and visitors and the economic sustainability of the Region's agriculture sector. The Region must ensure employment lands are ready for investment by undertaking area service planning to fast track the development of employment lands. Halton also needs to be promoted as one of the best locations in Canada for business investment by providing programs to support business success in the global marketplace. see Regional on p.13 In celebration of the Halton Children's Water Festival 10th Anniversary Help us design a new logo! Open to Halton high school students only Contest closes May 7, 2015 AyA Kitchens of oAKville 1195 north service roAd west $ 500 prize to winner 905.847.1522 ayaoakville.com For logo contest rules and entry form go to www.hcwf.ca/logo-contest