Mayor’s Statement on Preservation of Heritage Artifacts

HALTON HILLS, ON – Halton Hills Mayor Ann Lawlor spoke out following the announcement by Halton Region regarding the deaccessioning and dispersing of its historical collection.

“There has been concern that artifacts reflective of our community’s history may be lost,” she said. “I want residents to know that the deaccessioning process will ensure that items of significance to Halton Hills and Esquesing Township will be preserved.”

The Mayor noted that the Region’s decision creates an opportunity for the artifacts to be maintained in a manner more accessible to residents. The artifacts have been housed in safe storage since 2016 when the Halton Museum closed.

“When speaking with Chair Gary Carr and Regional staff, I stressed the importance of their support in serving our local interests. As a next step, I anticipate a meeting early this fall,” said the Mayor. Adding, “I am committed to keeping the community updated on this issue and I look forward to participating with our local heritage organizations in the Region-led process.”

"Halton Region is committed to preserving our shared history and ensuring that artifacts of local significance remain accessible," Halton Regional Chair, Gary Carr. "We look forward to working with Halton Hills, Esquesing Township, and local heritage partners to keep these connections to our past alive for future generations."

The Region’s actions will not result in any change to local heritage building designations or the Town’s cultural heritage efforts. The Mayor reassured residents that the long-standing Town of Halton Hills’ program of designating heritage buildings is continuing with vigour. Several more designations are planned for this fall.

Additional information about Halton Region’s process for deaccessioning and dispersing its historical collection can be found on their website at halton.ca. 

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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