Regional Council: Making decisions that matter - Aug. 18, 2021

The following is a summary of the major decisions made at the Regional Council meeting on Aug. 18, 2021. Please refer to the minutes for an official record of the meeting.

Region explores permanently waiving facility rental fees for Indigenous communities

In support of reconciliation and ahead of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30, Regional Council has directed staff to review the fees and charges by-law to include permanently waiving facility rental fees for Indigenous communities. Removing this barrier would increase access for Indigenous people to culturally safe spaces and facilities for cultural celebration and ceremonial use. The Region is committed to promoting and enhancing equity in policies, planning, services and decision-making to positively impact community wellbeing.

Electric vehicle charging stations will be added across the region

The Region of Waterloo, City of Cambridge, City of Kitchener and Township of Wilmot are making it easier for residents to drive electric. 20 new electric vehicle charging stations will be added across the region, serving a total 46 parking spaces. Four parking spaces will be located at the Region of Waterloo Airport, and the rest will be owned and operated by the participating municipalities. The charging stations are expected to be installed by the end of the year. Adding more charging stations for electric vehicles provides residents with more options to charge and drive their vehicles and promotes low-carbon transportation.

Region moves forward in adding more affordable housing

The Region of Waterloo is making affordable housing more available to individuals and families. The Region is receiving $11 million in funding through the Rapid Housing Initiative to create at least 42 units of new permanent affordable housing. Staff are working collaboratively with area municipalities, housing providers and the development community to identify the most appropriate sites and projects to deliver affordable housing. This program will help support our community’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic by providing much-needed affordable homes vulnerable people.

Region making progress towards achieving its goals in the Strategic Plan

While adapting critical programs and services to the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure their continued delivery to the community, the Region is on track to achieve the majority of objectives in its six strategic priority areas. Progress in achieving a Thriving Economy, Environment and Climate Action, Sustainable Transportation, Healthy, Safe and Inclusive Communities, Engaging and Responsive Public Service and Our People is helping the Region of Waterloo become a world-class community to live, work and play. Learn more about the Region of Waterloo’s Strategic Plan.