Oakville seeks input to create a more accessible community

In continuing to make life better for people with disabilities, the Town of Oakville is seeking input on its 2024-2029 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan. An online survey is open until February 25 for individuals with disabilities and the organizations and caregivers that support them, to provide feedback and help shape the town’s actions over the next five years. The town also welcomes input from all those who live, work, visit or offer services in Oakville.

The town’s Multi-Year Accessibility Plan identifies opportunities and actions to ensure that people with disabilities have ease of access to town programs, services, facilities, public spaces, communication and more. Launched in 2012, the plan is reviewed and updated every five years to support the growing population and residents’ unique needs and abilities. The 2018-2023 plan is available on the Accessibility and Inclusion page, including highlights of key accomplishments in all areas of municipal services. 

Over the next few weeks, the town will also connect with specific stakeholder groups, including the town’s Accessibility Advisory Committee, seniors’ services groups and more for their input. Alternate formats are available for providing feedback and can be requested by calling ServiceOakville at 905.845.6601 or emailing service@oakville.ca. 

In addition to being a legislated requirement under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), 2005, the town’s Multi-Year Accessibility Plan is aligned with Council’s Strategic Plan, and complements the town’s Multi-Year Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility Plan (IDEA). 

Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility Multi-Year Plan

• The IDEA Multi-Year Plan outlines the town’s commitment to be an inclusive workplace and community where everyone feels they belong. Accessibility is one of the four overarching priorities along with inclusion, diversity and equity with associated goals and actions to further the town’s IDEA efforts and enhance community belonging.

Multi-Year Accessibility Plan

• The Multi-Year Accessibility Plan delves into specific aspects of accessibility that include customer service, information and communication, employment, moving around town, public indoor and outdoor spaces, and more.
• Anyone who has already provided feedback on the IDEA plan through the online feedback form is also encouraged to complete the online Accessibility Survey.  

Quotes

“Improving accessibility is an important step in creating a more inclusive, vibrant and livable community. We invite public input to help people with disabilities to further integrate, participate and enjoy all that Oakville has to offer and foster a greater sense of belonging in the community.” 

– Mayor Rob Burton