Community Improvement Plan Grant Supports Facade Improvement in Downtown Georgetown

HALTON HILLS, ON – On Thursday, August 28, Mayor Ann Lawlor and Councillors Norris, Garneau, and Fogal, joined the Town’s Economic Development Division, to present a cheque for $7,308.08 to FOLIAGE, a locally-owned houseplant boutique, and the 126 Mill Street building owners. The funding was provided through the Town’s Community Improvement Plan which supports commercial property revitalization and improvements through grants and loans.     

The Facade Improvement grant enabled FOLIAGE, with support from the building owners, to replace two commercial-grade aluminum and glass doors and two large windows with new insulated, double-paned glass in the building. This upgrade not only aesthetically enhances the building but also significantly improves energy efficiency.

“The improvements at FOLIAGE are a perfect example of what happens when building owners support business owners ensuring that their storefront is vibrant and welcoming,” said Mayor Ann Lawlor. “We are pleased that the funding from the Community Improvement Plan continues to bolster projects that enhance and revitalize the downtown areas for our community.”

FOLIAGE was founded by Cheryl Discenza, a lifelong plant enthusiast turned entrepreneur, to create a space that blends creativity, design, and a love for nature. The shop and online store is known for its carefully curated plant selection, sustainable practices and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

"Working with the Town of Halton Hills team throughout the grant application process was such a positive experience—they were supportive, responsive, and genuinely invested in helping local businesses thrive.” said Cheryl Discenza, Owner of FOLIAGE. “We’re absolutely thrilled with our new windows and doors; this upgrade has significantly improved the energy efficiency and comfort of our space. The fresh, clean look also enhances the vibrant aesthetic of our downtown, and we’re proud to contribute to a welcoming and lively atmosphere that positively impacts our wonderful community."

The Community Improvement Plan offers grants and loans to eligible businesses and organizations, encouraging revitalization, attracting private sector investment, supporting the redevelopment of underutilized properties, and bolstering local job opportunities.

For every $1 invested by the Town through the CIP, up to $6 in private sector investment can be leveraged—amplifying the impact of municipal funding. This strategic, seed funding approach supports Council’s priorities by fostering economic growth, enhancing the local tax base, and advancing key community goals such as main street revitalization, heritage protection, and brownfield redevelopment.

To learn more about the Town of Halton Hills’ suite of programs under the Community Improvement Plan, visit https://investhaltonhills.com/CIP.

Left to right: Erin Kaiser, Manager of Economic Development and Innovation; Councillor Norris; Councillor Garneau; Mayor Ann Lawlor; Building Owners Allan Kogon, John Schaljo, and David Ashbee; HELSONS LLP Legal Assistant Loretta Pepper; Regional Councillor Fogal; Business Owner Cheryl Discenza and family.

About the Town of Halton Hills

The Town of Halton Hills, with a population of approximately 64,000, consists of two urban centres, Georgetown and Acton, the Halton Hills Premier Gateway employment area, three hamlets – Glen Williams, Stewarttown and Norval – and several smaller settlements. Halton Hills has long been recognized for its natural beauty, active agricultural community, high quality of life and proximity to major centres, including Brampton, Mississauga and Toronto. The Town is ranked as one of the top small communities in Canada by a national magazine.

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