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Incoming council faces tough decisions concerning growth The new council has been officially sworn in. We have two new faces on council-- Dave Kentner and John Duncan. They bring a wealth of business and community experience. I would like to welcome all the members of the 2006-2010 council. Listed below are their names, wards, and telephone numbers: Ward 1 Regional Councillor Clark Somerville Wards 1 and 2 519-853-9930 Councillor Jon Hurst 519-853-2015 Councillor Mike O'Leary 519-853-3052 Ward 2 Councillor Bryan Lewis 905-877-5380 Councillor Joan Robson 905-877-0253 Ward 3 Regional Councillor Jane Fogal Wards 3 and 4 905-877-5806 Councillor Moya Johnson 905-877-3755 Councillor Dave Kentner 905-877-6710 Ward 4 Councillor Bob Inglis 905-873-9124 Councillor John Duncan 905-873-8508 ··· We will have huge issues to tackle in this term, notwithstanding the taxes, but there will be major discussions on the future growth of Halton Hills. The Province of Ontario has come out with a Places to Grow document that is urging the Region of Halton to double its size by 2031. We will also be going through the Region's Durable Plan discussions. This is probably the most significant planning exercise in the history of Halton Hills. We will be going through unchartered waters as we work through the Region's Durable Plan which will not only determine our future growth, but will also at the same time try to protect our vision of Halton Hills as a wonderful municipality with a small town atmosphere. ··· Christmas is fast approaching. Rick Bonnette November and December is a period of short days, cold nights, and cloudy skies. For most, Christmas is a time of joy with friends and loved ones. For some though, it is a reminder of what they don't have, of how hard life can be. This is a time of year that I ask that you remember to donate to organizations that serve our community, such as food banks, Salvation Army kettles, and Sharing Trees, to name a few. What's often lost in the statistics is the number of children who are in need as their families struggle to make ends meet. Many of those needing assistance are working people like you. As the holidays approach, be in good cheer and help others to be in equally happy spirits. ··· Our community has welcomed the following new businesses: HomeSense and Winners Acton Resource Centre Main Street TRENDZ Hair Studio Assured Mortgage Services Neighbours ··· Heroes: · Zack Pearson · Kirkland Kilbride · Bethany Winter · Keith Poulous · Bill Spielvogel · Volunteers · All the employees of the Georgetown Hospital · Gordon Morton · Cancer survivors (including my mom) · Citizens of the Year-- Acton Agricultural Society and Glenda Benton · Acton and Georgetown Soccer Associations for working together on common goals and providing our indoor soccer facilities. On behalf of myself and members of council, I wish to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, and a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year! Keeping it real! I can be reached by telephone at 905-873-2601, ext. 2342, or by email at mayor@haltonhills.ca. --Rick Bonnette is the mayor of Halton Hills Parade of Lights Dec. 14 The 14th annual Farmers' Parade of Lights in Rockwood will be held December 14. Farmers from the surrounding area converge on the village at 7 p.m. with various pieces of farm equipment decorated and festively lit . Spectators will also have the opportunity to view a range of farming equipment from yesteryear and today and Santa and Mrs. Claus will ride in style as usual for the finale of the parade atop a massive combine. For more information visit www.rockwoodfarmersparade.org.