Growing with Care: Regional Council approves new plan to lead Waterloo Region into the future
Waterloo Region – Regional Council has approved a new strategic plan with input from thousands of community members to guide the Region as it prepares to grow to one million people in the coming decades.
The 2023-2027 Strategic Plan prioritizes the Region’s work in four key areas to: address the housing and homelessness crisis; grow sustainably while adapting to a changing climate; make services and opportunities more equitable for all; and cultivate an organization that supports staff wellbeing and service to better support residents.
The Strategic Plan focuses on “Growing with Care,” supporting a long-term vision of a compassionate community that cares for all people, stewards the land for future generations and gives everyone the opportunity to live a good life.
“This Strategic Plan sets out a path to make our community more sustainable, resilient and livable,” said Regional Chair Karen Redman. “We need to be intentional about our future and how we grow, as well as how this impacts affordability and quality of life.”
The new 2023-2027 Strategic Plan priorities are:
- Homes for all: We will invest in affordable homes and economic opportunity for all that are part of inclusive and environmentally sustainable communities.
- Climate aligned growth: As we grow, we will support a healthy environment where communities can thrive. Through intentional collaboration and creativity, we will support sustainable community growth.
- Equitable services and opportunities: Through collaboration and innovative design, we will provide equitable, accessible services across Waterloo Region that support the social determinants of health, safety and complete communities as we grow.
- Resilient and future ready organization: The Region of Waterloo is a great place to work, where everyone is valued, feels they belong and where they have the supports and tools they need to do a great job. We will be prepared for the future by providing a safe space for bold ideas and experimentation, based on data and other ways of knowing.
“As our community continues to grow and change, we must be able to adapt to deliver the critical services residents depend on daily,” said Region of Waterloo Chief Administrative Officer Bruce Lauckner. “From childcare to Paramedic Services, waste collection and water treatment, support and outreach workers, Region of Waterloo staff are committed to delivering services to support all residents across the region. This new strategic plan provides the roadmap for intentional growth and service delivery now and in decades to come.”
The Strategic Plan will be shared broadly this fall and will guide investments and decisions made through the Region’s 2024 Plan and Budget Process.
-30-