Council approves new strategic plan for Oakville Museum

Five-year plan will expand community connections, enhance visitor experiences and help more people discover Oakville's stories

Oakville Town Council has approved the Oakville Museum Strategic Plan 2026–2030, setting the direction for the Museum over the next five years as it builds on its strengths to become an even more connected, engaging and inclusive community destination.

As Oakville continues to grow and evolve, the Strategic Plan will guide how the Museum connects people with the stories, places and communities that shape Oakville through inclusive exhibitions, programs and experiences. Grounded in the principles of community participation, accessibility, education, authenticity and stewardship, the plan reflects the Museum's commitment to preserving Oakville's shared heritage while creating new opportunities for residents and visitors to discover, connect and participate.

The Strategic Plan was shaped by feedback from community partners, residents, Museum staff and stakeholders through focus groups, a public survey and an open house. Participants highlighted the importance of expanding awareness, strengthening community connections, improving accessibility, embracing diverse perspectives and creating more opportunities for people to see themselves reflected in Oakville's story.

In step with this feedback, the plan outlines five priority areas that will guide the Museum's work into 2030:

1. Increase awareness and visibility 
2. Expand digital access 
3. Deepen community connections 
4. Enhance the visitor experience 
5. Build organizational capacity

While these priorities will guide the Museum behind the scenes, residents will experience them in tangible ways. Visitors can expect more interactive and hands-on experiences, expanded outdoor programming, enhanced walking tours, stronger community partnerships, rotating exhibitions featuring more of the Museum's collection, and new digital opportunities to explore Oakville's stories beyond the Museum's walls. 

Together, these changes will help create a Museum where people are inspired to return often, discover something new with every visit, and see themselves reflected in Oakville's shared story.

Council's approval also supports the Museum's continued eligibility for provincial operating funding, helping to ensure the long-term sustainability of programs, exhibitions and services while advancing the community's vision for the Museum's future.

To learn more and access the plan, visit the Oakville Museum’s Strategic Plan page. 

Quote

"The Oakville Museum is a vital part of our community life, preserving and sharing the stories that define who we are. This Strategic Plan builds on that strong foundation, creating more opportunities for residents and visitors to connect with Oakville's stories and history."

– Mayor Rob Burton