New Acton Library Tour

On Thursday, members of Council were given an opportunity to tour the construction site also known as the New Acton Library.

The tour began in the current library that was built in the 1960's. One could immediately see the problems inherent in the design of the existing facility. The stairs are the biggest problem. Parents with strollers are really challenged and anyone with mobility issues would find access to any part of the library very difficult. The cramped space is also clearly a problem.

In contrast, the new library pictured above is on one level and is airy and welcoming. Although there is lots of finishing work to be done, it already looks terrific. The natural wood ceiling, stone accent walls, gas fireplace and natural light flooding the entire space combine to give a warm ambiance throughout.

It is expected that the new library will be open to the public at the end of February. I expect that this will become a new cherished focal point for the people of Acton. The only problem I see is that more people will want to come and just stay by the fireplace. I bet that applications to work there will also skyrocket.

Minister of Transportation in Halton Hills

On Friday afternoon we had the privilege of having Kathleen Wynne, Minister of Transportation for the Province of Ontario visit Halton Hills. She was primarily here for a "Meet and Greet" organized by the Wellington-Halton Hills Liberal Party. However, in advance of that event we were able to book a meeting with the Minister at our town hall in order to present the Minister with our point of view on several local transportation issues.

Pictured here is Minister Wynne in the centre of the table. Also in attendance were members of the senior management team and Mitch Zamojc, Commissioner of Public Works at Halton Region. Councillors Somerville, Johnson, Kentner, Robson, Lewis and myself were part of the discussion that was led by Mayor Bonnette.

Approximately 10 issues were covered including the GO Transit Expansion to Acton, increased funding for ActiVan, Active transportation issues, and perhaps most important - our position and concerns with respect to the preferred route for the Greater Tororto Area West Corridor - a proposed new 400 series highway.

I was very impressed with the Minister and her almost instantaneous grasp of the issues. It must be extremely difficult to put herself into the local context when she visits municipalities all across Ontario. Her responses are always reasonable given that she can't simply make up new policies on the fly. However she will tell you if she can help or she can't help. It is very much appreciated that we get a straight answer so that we don't have false hope or start down a pathway that won't lead anywhere in the end.

As part of our meeting I was able to raise the issue of how the Ontario Highway Traffic Act needs to be brought in line with the new emphasis on Active Transportation, particularly as it relates to encouraging pedestrian activity. I have been thinking about this for a couple of years. It was frustrating when Main Street Georgetown was reconstructed with obvious crosswalks that pedestrians could not be given the priority many thought they had. Many people assumed that they had the right of way at the crosswalk whereas in fact the cars have the right of way. We, as a municipality do not have the authority to give the pedestrians the right of way unless we put up those huge, over the road, flashing lights such as they have in Acton.

I have observed in other countries and provinces that municipalities can create situations where pedestrians have the right of way and I would like to have the option here. The Minister was quick to say that this is definately something that they are hoping to address and would welcome further input. Commissioner Zamojc also indicated that this is subject of that the GTA Commissioners are also exploring. I was very encouraged and I will be pursuing this further with the Ministry.

The Minister graciously allowed me to get a picture of the two of us. The Minister is on the right side.

If you have comments about pedestrian priority or any other transportation issues I would like to hear your point of view or suggestion.

Magic on Main Street

Congratulations to the Georgetown BIA for organizing a great Christmas event in Downtown Georgetown. Throngs of children swarmed Santa who was wearing his very best suit for the occasion. As you can see, Santa had a castle created and donated by Blake Smith of Lasting Impressions. Blake is super creative with his balloon art and is now an international award winner. I am always delighted to see what he comes up with for occasions such as this. Santa himself was absolutely charming with the children.

Mr. Nutcracker roamed the streets and chatted with anyone who was willing to look up, look way up.

Another huge hit was the horse drawn wagon ride which attracted a steady line up of eager families. Even Santa couldn't resist the opportunity and was given the special privilege of sitting up front.

There were lots of activities for children in the stores and treats for everyone outside. The bells at Knox church set the tone and later the Georgetown Choral Society enlivened the street with their rendition of favourite songs of the season. Kids, old and young were roasting marshmellows over hot coals and elves were dashing about handing out candy.

This was the third espisode of Holiday Magic on Main and it was by far the most successful in terms of attracting participants and keeping them entertained for several hours. It was blessed with perfect weather - invigorating would be a good description. I recall the first year as bone numbing and challenging. This was a great beginning to the Christmas season downtown. Thanks to the BIA for providing such a great family event for the enjoyment of the community.