Making Decisions That Matter – December 13 edition2 min read
Reading Time: 2 minutesThis is a summary of Regional Council’s decision from its December 13, 2023 meeting. With input from the community, Regional Council sets the direction for the Region as an organization and makes decisions that help improve the lives of Waterloo Region residents every day. Please refer to the minutes for an official record of the meeting.
Approved 2024 Plan and Budget makes critical investments to meet growth
The Region of Waterloo is investing $2.1 billion in 2024 to maintain and expand vital services necessary for the community to grow to a million people in the coming years. The total 2024 operating and capital budget for Regional services, including costs for Waterloo Region Police Services, is $2.1 billion, which represents a tax rate impact of 6.9%. This amounts to an annual increase of $165 for an average property, or $13.76 per month. Learn more about the coming year’s key investments this summary of the Region’s 2024 budget.
Council approves south terminal location for ION in Cambridge
Regional Council has approved the Ainslie Street Grand River Transit terminal as the south terminal location for Stage 2 ION in Cambridge. The decision was based on many criteria, including access to existing and prospective employment areas, efficiency of travel using the LRT and bus network such as trip time and number of transfers, and cost. Stage 2 ION will support alternative options to cars, helps build community and supports the construction of housing in areas that are close to jobs, services and amenities.
Capital grant supports more affordable homes in Cambridge
Regional Council approved $1.96 million in funding to Community Living Cambridge to support the creation of 20 affordable homes for adults with developmental disabilities. The units at 160-162 Hespeler Road will be in a congregate setting with full-time supports and services, rented at a cost of $538 per month. The grant was awarded through a request for proposal process and funded through the Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative (OPHI). The Regional Affordable Housing RFP is an important tool that provides an opportunity for the community to identify solutions in response to housing needs.