Mayor Ann Lawlor's May 2025 Message

HALTON HILLS, ON – The Council agenda on May 5 covered a wide range of subjects, from the Library Annual Report to updates on the plan for a new neighbourhood in Southeast Georgetown to a major environmental initiative and Fairy Lake Revival!

A new residential mixed-use area plan has been approved for lands previously known as the Russell farm just south of Norval and east of 10^th Line in Georgetown. As the plan was developed, it needed to be integrated into the adjacent neighbourhood. There were goals as well that the new community would be compact, pedestrian-friendly with a mix of housing types, commercial opportunities, and open spaces.             

We know that approval of a general plan does not mean that home construction will start tomorrow. It could be a few years while detailed subdivision plans are reviewed by Town staff and external agencies such as the conservation authority. The builder needs to design and schedule site works and detailed block layouts. However, this current approval is a new green light to proceed on a new neighbourhood that could bring a few thousand more people to the southeast corner of Georgetown.

In another presentation to Council, Library Board Chair, Alice Strachan, and Chief Librarian, Beverley King, again demonstrated that our libraries are “not just books” and that Halton Hills residents, from babies to teens and seniors, love and flock to our library branches. Our libraries are truly community hubs, offering programs and services and enriching lives while being welcoming and inclusive to everyone.

The Library Board mission is a lofty one: to empower our community through ideas, creativity and connection in a welcoming, safe and supportive environment. And I would say, with thousands of library visits, close to half a million items borrowed, 80 community partners, and more, this year, we can declare the Library Mission Accomplished!

I was also excited to share with Council the launch of the Fairy Lake Revival project to rejuvenate the lake in Acton and its Black Creek watershed. We will see more outdoor recreation, support for biodiversity and local involvement in and around Acton’s treasured natural space. Investment by Halton Region and the federal government will help us accomplish these multi-year initiatives.

We are paying attention to the water quality of Fairy Lake. Frankly, it is not in top condition and we have a plan for improvement. We will be cleaning up the water run off that enters the lake, tackle the pollution from geese and improving the landscape around it so that impurities are caught by plants and contours in the land. We’ll be doing our best to eliminate invasive species that are crowding out native plants, fish and animals.

Credit Valley Conservation staff will be bringing their expertise through a new Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Plan, with boots on the ground and involving residents to enhance their own properties as well as public spaces. Several local environmental groups will also lend their experience and willing hands. Stay tuned for some fun and valuable lessons in outdoor education!

Countless residents and community groups have remined us about the importance of the lake. Fairy Lake Revival reflects our vision of a nature-rich and healthy Town.

Enjoy the May flowers!