2025 Annual Report Strategic Priorities

Adopting an updated Official Plan Amendment for Midtown Oakville 

In 2025, Town Council adopted an Official Plan Amendment for Midtown Oakville (OPA 70) to guide how the area will grow and develop over the long term. The amendment updates policies in the Town’s Official Plan to support Midtown’s evolution as a mixed-use, transit-oriented area, while balancing growth with livability.

The updated policies address land use, built form, parks and open spaces, mobility, and community infrastructure. Input from the public, community partners and interested parties informed the final amendment, which reflects feedback received through multiple phases of engagement. As a next step, the amendment has been forwarded to the province for review and approval.

Endorsing Key Directions for Midtown 

Along with the adoption of OPA 70, Council also endorsed a set of key directions that laid the foundation for implementing the vision of Midtown. This includes a Transportation Plan, Stormwater Management Plan, Urban Design direction, and Oakville’s first-ever Community Planning Permit System (CPPS).

The Midtown Transportation Plan is fundamentally about shifting Midtown from an auto-oriented corridor into a transit-supportive, multi-modal mobility hub. This is not just about moving vehicles—it’s about reallocating road space and supporting density. It aligns with Midtown’s designation as both an Urban Growth Centre and a GO mobility hub. 

The stormwater plan establishes a resilient, integrated system to manage runoff under high-density redevelopment conditions. It explicitly moves beyond traditional end-of-pipe systems toward a multi-layered approach because traditional pipe capacity alone is insufficient for Midtown’s density. It relies heavily on distributed systems embedded in the public realm and private development.

Designing Midtown translates the OPA vision into urban form, built form, and public realm expectations. It functions as the qualitative framework that aligns architecture, streetscape and public realm design, and development interface. Its intent is to create a high-quality, transit-oriented urban environment.

The CPPS is a different way of regulating development by establishing the land use permissions, built form, and community benefits. This is based on a technical foundation, policy context, and public engagement needed to guide future development of Midtown.

 Approving a Transportation Master Plan to support choice and growth 

Oakville Council approved the Town’s updated Transportation Master Plan (TMP) in 2025, following a two-year study that included public consultation, best practice review, benchmarking, and technical research. The plan provides a long-term framework to guide transportation planning in Oakville through 2051.

The 2025 TMP sets out a comprehensive strategy to support continued growth while addressing climate change, leveraging emerging technologies, and fostering healthy, livable communities. It includes more than 300 recommendations to shift the transportation system toward more sustainable and multi-modal options, with a focus on safety, connectivity, accessibility, equity, and inclusion. The plan identifies strategies for roads, transit, walking, and cycling; considers both current needs and future demand; and enables the Town to advance priority actions that improve mobility and connectivity for residents and businesses.

Updating the Official Plan to align with provincial legislation 

In October 2025, Council adopted Official Plan Amendment 73 (OPA 73) as part of the Town’s scoped Provincial Consistency Exercise. The amendment updates Oakville’s planning framework to reflect recent changes in provincial legislation and the new Provincial Planning Statement, 2024. 

OPA 73 ensures that Oakville’s Official Plan remains consistent with current provincial policy direction while maintaining local priorities. The amendment clarifies and adjusts policies, where needed, to align with updated provincial requirements. Council’s adoption of OPA 73 positions the Town to continue planning for sustainable growth and community needs within the updated legislative context and sets the stage for completion of the Official Plan Review program with a new, unified Official Plan for the Town in 2027.

Investing in infrastructure and public spaces 

The Town continued work on multiple construction projects throughout 2025 that support a vibrant and liveable community, with a focus on infrastructure, public spaces, and facilities across Oakville. 

Projects included the revitalization of Bronte Beach, further traffic calming measures in school zones on major collector and minor arterial roadways, road resurfacing, the  upgrades to Sixteen Mile Sports Complex,  improvements at Iroquois Ridge, Oakville Trafalgar and Glen Abbey community centres as well as storm sewer replacements, and active transportation improvements. Together, these and other projects support growth, improve access to services and amenities, and reflect priorities identified through planning and public engagement. 

Inviting input on the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts 

In fall 2025, the Town invited artists, presenters, cultural organizations, businesses and community members to share input on the future of the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts through an online survey. Their feedback will inform a feasibility study that is part of a broader Downtown Cultural Hub vision.   

The input is also critical to gather ideas about programming, space use, and community needs, as well as help inform future planning and decision-making for the facility and ensure it continues to reflect community priorities and support a vibrant, inclusive downtown area. 

Shaping the future of the Bronte waterfront 

In 2025, the Town of Oakville actively solicited community feedback on the development of a Bronte Waterfront Strategy to guide future development of the area. Residents, community partners, and interested parties were invited to share ideas and priorities to help shape a vision for parks, public spaces, and how the waterfront may be used over time. 

Engagement opportunities included a range of online, in-person and interactive options designed to gather feedback on what people value most in this signature lakeside area. Options shaped through this collaborative process were presented to Council in May 2026. 

Endorsing streetscape studies for Bronte and Kerr Villages 

In 2025, Town Council endorsed streetscape plans for Bronte Village and Kerr Village, marking a step forward in enhancing livability in two of Oakville’s key main street areas. The studies identify opportunities to improve placemaking, streetscape design, community spaces, and active transportation along both corridors. 

The work supports community goals for walkability, comfort and local identity while responding to input received through public engagement. Council’s endorsement allows staff to advance detailed design work that will help guide future investments and improvements in these village areas, reinforcing their role as vibrant and connected community hubs. 

Oakville Transit implements initiatives identified in the Five-Year Business Plan 

In 2025, Oakville Transit implemented several service enhancements focused on improving accessibility, frequency, and network efficiency. Of note, the first phase of the Frequent Transit Network was introduced on June 29, 2025, delivering targeted frequency and service span improvements on Route 1 – Trafalgar and Route 5 – Dundas.  With the service and routing changes implemented in 2025, Oakville Transit carried over five million total boardings representing a three per cent increase in total boardings when compared to 2024. 

Addressing housing supply and affordability 

As part of its Housing Strategy and Action Plan, the Town continued work in 2025 to address the needs of our growing and diverse community by supporting increased housing supply and improved affordability. 

Based on resident feedback on draft housing policies and findings from a Housing Needs Assessment that identified challenges in affordability, supply, housing types and changing needs, the Town is considering a range of initiatives to support more housing options. These include updating Official Plan policies, enabling future inclusionary zoning opportunities in the Town’s Major Transit Station Areas, and exploring the potential for a Community Improvement Plan to encourage more affordable housing. 

Updating our Economic Development Plan for the future 

In 2025, Council approved an updated Economic Development Plan for 2025 to 2029, outlining strategic directions to strengthen Oakville’s economy over the next five years. The plan supports local business growth, improves investment readiness, and aims to attract new investments and jobs. 

Developed in collaboration with community and business partners, as well as informed by market research, the plan builds on Oakville’s advantages and strengths. It identifies tools, programs and services to foster a diverse and resilient local economy and sets out short-, mid-, and long-term actions to support business retention, expand opportunities, and promote the Town of Oakville as a destination for investment. 

Celebrating youth leadership 

In 2025, the Town of Oakville, in partnership with the Oakville Youth Action Committee (OYAC) and the Halton Muslim Youth Association, celebrated the achievements of young leaders at the second annual Oakville Youth Awards. The program celebrates the achievements and contributions of young people aged 11 to 19 in the community, with nominations recognizing youth leadership, creativity, community involvement, and contribution to sports. In addition, two new awards were added, recognizing youth contributions to the environment and to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) initiatives. 

On May 7, 2025, 12 outstanding young people selected from more than 100 nominations were recognized for their meaningful and lasting contributions to the Oakville community during an unforgettable evening at the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts. 

Showcasing community spirit 

The Town again recognized local community champions in 2025 through the 23rd annual Community Spirit Awards, celebrating 38 nominees across six award categories: Arts, Culture and Heritage; Climate Action; Good Neighbour; Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility; Inspiration; and Leadership and Innovation. The awards honour individuals, organizations, businesses and community groups whose volunteer efforts and acts of kindness make a meaningful difference in Oakville and contribute to a vibrant, welcoming community where people can live, work and play. 

Expanding care-A-van service with free access for registered riders 

To foster a more inclusive and connected community, on May 1, 2025, Oakville Transit began offering care-A-van service free of charge to all registered customers, with the use of a PRESTO card. The initiative reflects the Town’s commitment to enhancing mobility, well-being, and overall quality of life for all individuals. 

Care-A-van provides accessible door-to-door transportation for residents who are unable to use conventional transit due to disability or mobility challenges. Removing fares for this specialized transit service supports greater access to appointments, events, social activities and community services. 

Supporting safe access to places of worship 

In May 2025, Town Council unanimously approved a Safe Access to Places of Worship By-law to maintain safe public access to places of worship. The by-law specifies actions that are not permitted within 50 metres of any place of worship to help ensure clear and unobstructed access for congregants and visitors. 

The regulation supports the safety and comfort of people attending religious services and events. Going forward, the Town continues to promote respectful and inclusive public spaces for residents and visitors. 

Hosting a first-of-its-kind fire prevention mentorship program 

Underlining the Town’s commitment to supporting Indigenous culture and communities, in 2025 the Oakville Fire Department proudly hosted a Cree Nation Fire Prevention Officer (FPO) in a month-long mentorship program. Designed to share expertise in fire prevention strategies and public safety outreach, the program offered hands-on experience and best practice information to support the development of fire prevention programs and collaboration across jurisdictions. 

Offering Community Activation Grants to support local initiatives 

In alignment with Council’s priority to strengthen community belonging, in 2025, the Town launched the annual Community Activation Grant program. Residents, informal groups and neighbourhood associations could apply for grants of up to $1,000 to support initiatives that bring neighbours together, enhance well-being, strengthen community ties, and create opportunities for residents to meet, engage and celebrate their neighbourhoods.   

Updating rules for sports on streets in Oakville 

In 2025, the Town of Oakville updated local regulations to allow certain sports to be played on some residential streets. The updated rules clarify where and when activities such as ball hockey and basketball may take place, balancing neighbourhood livability with opportunities for outdoor play. Safety, traffic flow and community use were considered in developing the revised framework, providing clarity while supporting active lifestyles. 

Highlighting neighbourhood traffic safety program progress and next steps 

In 2025, Town Council received an update on Oakville’s Neighbourhood Traffic Safety Program, outlining progress made during the year and work planned for 2026. The report highlights initiatives that address traffic concerns and support safer movement for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers, including traffic calming measures, additional pedestrian crossovers and new Community Safety Zones. 

Informed by resident input and data-driven analysis, the update identifies enhancements planned for the year ahead to further improve safety, comfort, and accessibility across Oakville neighbourhoods. 

Strengthening winter readiness and keeping residents informed  

In response to the exceptional winter weather experienced in February 2025, when Oakville was hit by four major snowstorms delivering more than 65 centimetres over eight days, the Town introduced a new, corporate wide Significant Snow Event Protocol. This proactive framework strengthens the Town’s ability to respond to severe winter conditions while ensuring clear, timely, and consistent communication with the public. The protocol establishes clear criteria for declaring a significant snow event, defines roles and responsibilities across departments, and streamlines internal coordination. Most importantly, it enhances how and when residents are informed, helping the community better understand service impacts and what to expect during extreme winter weather.

Celebrating Culture Days with more than 150 local events 

The Culture Days festival returned to Oakville from September 19 to October 12, 2025, featuring more than 150 arts and culture events across the community. Residents and visitors were invited to experience local creativity through performances, workshops, exhibitions, and interactive activities. 

Events showcased the talents of artists, cultural organizations, and community partners, highlighting the diversity of Oakville’s cultural scene and encouraging participation from people of all ages. 

As one of Ontario’s official Culture Days Festival Hubs, Oakville has consistently demonstrated excellence in arts engagement, creative partnerships, and community participation. 

Launching the ‘Branches to Business’ program to support local growth 

In 2025, Oakville launched a ‘Branches to Business’ program to help local businesses access resources, data, and support for long-term growth. The program reflects the Town’s focus on strengthening the local economy, creating more local job opportunities, and fostering local vitality by supporting businesses to thrive. It is organized around four strategic pillars: funding tools and programs, workforce development, scaling and growth, and navigating municipal government processes. 

Setting direction for the future of special events 

The Town of Oakville approved a new Special Events Plan in 2025 that outlines how events will be supported, delivered, and funded in the years ahead. More than 1,450 contributions from residents, organizers, staff, and representatives from Business Improvement Areas helped shape a plan that provides a clear framework for event partners and organizers and sets priorities for coordination, resourcing, and community engagement, supporting a diverse and vibrant calendar of events. 

Expanding Oakville Transit’s electric bus fleet 

In 2025, Oakville Transit continued work to reduce emissions and increase sustainable transportation options by expanding the electric bus fleet. The Town added 15 new large capacity electric buses to support clean public transit and improve service for riders.

The expanded fleet supports Oakville’s commitment to environmental sustainability and aligns with broader goals to lower greenhouse gas emissions. The electric buses offer quieter operation and a reduced environmental footprint compared with conventional diesel vehicles. Transit staff continue to monitor performance and continue looking for funding opportunities to include additional zero-emission vehicles in the fleet  

Inviting residents to shape home energy upgrade programs 

In 2025, the Town of Oakville invited residents to help shape the development of Town programs and resources related to home energy upgrades. The engagement asked for input on barriers, priorities, and ideas to make energy efficiency improvements more accessible and aligned with community needs. 

Feedback gathered through the consultation will inform future program design and support efforts to help residents explore options for home energy upgrades. The Town encouraged broad participation to ensure that a range of perspectives contributes to shaping effective and useful resources for household energy improvements. 

Growing Oakville’s urban forest with new trees and shrubs 

Parks and Open Space staff planted more than 14,000 trees and 2,000 shrubs in spring 2025 as part of the Town’s efforts to grow its urban forest. Nearly 38,000 more trees and 4,400 shrubs were planted in the fall, bringing the total to nearly 60,000 new plantings for the year. 

The expanded canopy supports environmental sustainability by improving air quality, enhancing biodiversity, and contributing to stormwater management. These planting efforts reflect the Town’s commitment to increasing green spaces and strengthening the natural environment for current and future generations. 

Approving a dedicated stormwater funding structure 

In 2025, Council approved a new funding approach for stormwater management, transitioning from property taxes to a dedicated stormwater fee effective 2026. Informed by the Stormwater Fee Feasibility Study, the model more closely aligns costs with each property’s contribution to runoff. A phased implementation was also approved to support a gradual transition for property owners. Revenue generated through the fee will be allocated exclusively to Oakville’s Rainwater Management Program to support the operation, maintenance and enhancement of the Town’s stormwater system, separate from general tax revenues. 

The new funding approach will ensure that stormwater systems are maintained, enhanced and equipped to manage current and future rainfall events. By establishing a clear structure for financial support, the Town aims to strengthen infrastructure reliability and protect neighbourhoods, natural areas and watercourses. Council’s direction underscores Oakville’s commitment to long-term environmental sustainability and community safety. 

Management of road salt during winter maintenance operations  

Since implementing the 2025-2030 Salt Management Plan, the Town of Oakville has reduced salt use and continue to deliver on various initiatives which show the Town’s commitment to improving our salt usage. 

Refreshing the Customer Experience Strategy 

In 2025, the Town of Oakville began a refresh of the Customer Experience Strategy to improve how residents, businesses and visitors interact with the Town. The initiative focuses on making services more clear, consistent, and responsive, helping ensure all touchpoints the public has with the Town are seamless and efficient.  

Community input was gathered through a significant public and internal engagement process to better understand current experiences and expectations. Going forward, this feedback will help shape improvements, tools and supports that enhance accessibility and satisfaction across Town programs and services. 

Improving the building permit process with a new online system 

In 2025, the Town of Oakville enhanced online services to improve the building permit process. The new system brings application intake, review, and approval together in a single platform, creating a more streamlined and efficient user experience. 

By reducing steps and simplifying how permits are submitted and tracked, the Town aims to improve transparency and ease of use for residents, developers, and businesses. The update reflects Oakville’s commitment to modernizing services and improving interactions with municipal processes. 

Supporting residents with new property tax portal 

As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen digital services that support accessibility, convenience and responsiveness, the Town introduced a new online property tax portal in 2025.

The portal makes it easier for property owners across Oakville to view and manage their property tax information and provides secure, self-serve access at any time., In the months after launch, more than 5,700 residents used the portal to access tax details, payment history and related services.

Upgrading pay-by-plate parking machines to improve convenience 

In summer 2025, the Town of Oakville began upgrading all pay-by-plate parking machines to improve convenience, security and reliability while supporting a wider range of payment options.

A total of 58 machines were modernized with 5G cellular technology and a new tap-to-pay feature that uses updated encryption to further protect users’ payment information. This modernized parking system reflects the Town’s focus on improving everyday services, with investments in updated technology, helping make parking easier and more efficient for residents, businesses, and visitors throughout Oakville. 

Raising community awareness and readiness for flooding  

In 2025, the Town successfully delivered a Flooding Preparedness Public Awareness Campaign, following the severe rainfall event in July 2024. The campaign focused on helping residents better understand flood risks and how to prepare for potential flooding. It provided clear, accessible information about flood-protection resources, where to find them and practical steps on how to prepare for flooding, and reduce impacts to their property. The campaign also clarified the respective roles and responsibilities of homeowners, the Town, the Region, and conservation authorities, encouraging the community to make simple, impactful enhancements to flood-proof their property. 

Sharing mid-point progress on the Council Strategic Action Plan 

In 2025, Town Council received a mid-point update on the 2023 to 2026 Council Strategic Action Plan. The report outlines progress made at the halfway point of this four-year plan that acts as a roadmap to guide Council’s decision-making during the 2023 to 2026 term of office. It also highlights ongoing work as the Town continues to pursue strategic goals. 

These updates provide transparency on achievements across key focus areas, such as infrastructure, community services, sustainability, and governance. To stay informed about strategic action plan progress, members of the public can visit Council’s Strategic Plan Dashboard that monitors key community indicators throughout the year. 

Approving procurement by-law amendments to support local businesses 

In 2025, Town Council unanimously approved amendments to the Town’s procurement by-law following recommendations from the Tariff Task Force. The changes refine procurement criteria and procedures to better support Canadian and Ontario-based businesses. 

Updating the by-law helps align purchasing practices with community and economic priorities. The amendments aim to enhance clarity and fairness in procurement while encouraging local suppliers to participate in municipal contracting. 

Streamlining licensing rules to support local businesses 

In 2025, Town Council approved changes to streamline licensing operations, including the discontinuation of seven business licence types. These updates reduce red tape and lower costs while maintaining public safety and regulatory standards. 

The streamlined approach reflects feedback from the business community and supports a more efficient and predictable regulatory framework, making it easier for businesses to start, grow and operate in Oakville. 

Regulating towing and the immobilization of vehicles without the owner’s consent 

In response to concerns raised by the community, Town Council approved a set of by-law changes regulating the towing and immobilization of vehicles without the owner’s consent. The updates strengthened rules governing towing from private property and then prohibited the use of parking boots and similar locking devices, providing clearer protections for vehicle owners. 

Together, these measures protect vehicle owners and promote fair and transparent practices on both public and private property. Council’s actions reflect the Town’s commitment to addressing resident concerns, protecting the public, ensuring clear and enforceable regulations that support community safety and confidence. 

Celebrating a milestone in heritage property protection 

In 2025, the Town of Oakville reached a milestone in heritage property protection, bringing the total number of designated properties to nearly 700. This includes stand-alone properties and those within Oakville’s four Heritage Conservation Districts. 

A designation status helps safeguard historic properties and their features, formally acknowledging their cultural significance. In addition, preserving historic buildings promotes sustainability by reducing demolition waste and maintaining traditional craftsmanship. This designation milestone reflects ongoing collaboration with property owners and community partners to protect valued places for future generations. 

Celebrating accessibility and inclusion with a renewed playground 

In 2025, Oakville unveiled a fully accessible and inclusive playground at Coronation Park, the first of its kind in town. The redesigned space includes features that support a wide range of physical and sensory needs, providing opportunities for play, social interaction, and physical activity for children of all abilities. Its opening highlighted the Town’s commitment to creating welcoming public spaces that can be enjoyed by everyone. 

Approving the 2026 budget with a focus on resilience and sustainability 

At the end of 2025, Town Council approved a 2026 budget including an overall property tax increase of 1.96 per cent. The increase remains below the forecasted inflation rate for 2026 and is the lowest among neighbouring municipalities, even with the addition of a new stormwater fee. 

The budget supports infrastructure, community programs and environmental initiatives while maintaining a focus on resilience and sustainability. Council’s approval provides financial direction for the year ahead and reflects a commitment to fiscal responsibility.