,/Report focuses on planning r ~c- 4- Ç T 14 Â A, 'i-Â~A IA~Â The Canadian Champion, Tuesday, May 24, 2005 - 3 A recent report from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) highlights Halton's need to continue planning responsibly for the region's growth. Following on the heels of the Provincial Greater Golden Horseshoe Growth Plan, the report from the FCM Quality of Life Reporting System - Growth, the Economy and the Urban Environment - reaffirmed Halton's focus on the key issues necessary for its residents to con- tinue enjoying a high quality of life. The report examines population and household growth, income and economic growth, municipal solid waste management, transportation and air quality and municipal water supply and water quality. These areas are reflected in Halton's approach to planning for the future that focuses on the three pillars of sustainable development: the economy, the environment and social equity. FCM's report serves to underscore the importance of using these three criteria to ensure responsible growth. "Halton Region has always taken a proactive approach, looking ahead to ensure we can meet the demands of future growth so Halton remains a great place to live and work," said Regional Chairman Joyce Savoline. "This includes identifying oppor- tunities to maximize our efficien- cies, utilize new technologies and develop strong, defensible policies that support our environment and high quality of life." Halton Region's 2004-2006 Strategic Plan addresses many of the same areas outlined in FCM's report and reflects Halton's ongo- ing commitment to responsible growth that balances both the urban and rural needs of residents. This includes planning a compre- hensive transportation system, working with other orders of gov- emment, businesses and the com- munity to improve local air quality, continuing to provide safe drinking water to local residents and busi- nesses -and remaining a leader in waste management practices by continuing to promote and imple- ment programs that will extend the lifespan of Halton's landfill. Examples of how Halton is addressing growth in the region include: • The work performed by Halton Region's Joint Municipal Waste Management Committee through updating the Region's Solid Waste Management Strategy to ensure Halton remains a leader in the area of waste management. • Halton Region and its residents have worked hard to achieve a waste diversion rate of 41.6 per cent - meaning almost 42 per cent of all residential waste collected is diverted away from Halton's land- fill - one of the highest diversion rates in Canada. • The adoption of Amendment 25 to the Regional Official Plan (OPA 25), concluding a four-year review process. OPA25 achieves a new planning vision that sets a firm urban boundary to accommodate growth to the year 2021, addresses the need for housing choices for all incomes and stages of life, supports Halton's farming community, enhances the greenlands systeim, comnuits to improvements in air and water quality and promotes alternate methods of transporta- tion, such as public transit, cycling, and walking. • The establishment of the.H alton Regional Cycling Committee to help ensure the voices of Halton's cyclists are heard and taken into account, especially when imple- nenting cycling-related recomn- mendations included in the Halton Transportation Master Plan. This committee will help ensure that the needs of Halton's cycling commu- nity are incorporated where possi- ble into future road enhancements, maintenance and development. A safe and convenient infrastructure will encourage more people to cycle. For more information on the Growth, the Economy and the Urban Environment report visit the FCM Web site at www.fcm.ca. Woz "eý4