www.oakvillebeaver.com The Oakville Beaver, Wednesday September 12, 2007 - 5 Halton ranks high as sustainable community By Melanie Hennessey SPECIAL TO THE BEAVER When it comes to sustainable communities, Halton is among the top in Ontario. A study released last week by the Pembina Institute ranked the region as third out of 27 municipalities in the province on its sustainability index. The institute looked at 33 indicators of sustainability in three broad categories -- smart growth, livability and economic vitality -- to come up with its conclusions. The news of Halton's high ranking was welcomed by Regional Chair Gary Carr. "We definitely are working toward ensuring Halton continues to be a sustainable place to live," he remarked. "That's what the Sustainable Halton (planning) process is all about." While Halton placed third overall, the study gave the municipality individual rankings in each of the three aforementioned categories. It placed second in economic vitality and third in the livability section. The document noted low crime rates, good population health and affordable housing contributed to Halton's good marks for livability. But, the region did place quite low -- 24th -- in the smart growth category. The study explained this kind of ranking can be due to poor land use mixes, low levels of development intensification and long commuting distances for residents. Carr explained Halton does have more of a challenge when it comes to commuting due to the large size of the region. "We're also so newlydeveloped compared to places like Toronto and York Region," he said. "When it comes to smart growth, we want to learn from other jurisdictions." He added, "We certainly believe we can do a better job in this next round with Sustainable Halton." The Region is developing the Sustainable Halton plan to help guide the extensive population growth called for in the Province's Places to Grow plan while preserving and protecting things like greenspace. And judging from com- ments made by those who helped prepare the Pembina Institute study, Halton could be averting potential disaster by planning in advance. "Unsustainable development patterns in the Greater Golden Horseshoe, particularly the 905 region, threaten to undermine the economic vitality of these communities in the long term," said Ray Tomalty, the report's lead author. "Long commuting distances, the lack of commuting options, traffic congestion, low housing diversity and affordability could strangle the long-term prosperity of these regions." To view the full report visit www.pembina.org. OSTEOARTHRITIS PAIN? New Treatment Combines Sound Pressure Waves and Exercise in Warm Water for Pain Relief SATURDAY SEP 15 -1:30 to 3:30 CORONATION PARK- EAST END Hey Oakville, it's a Hosted by Rick ByersYour Oakville PC Candidate Town Picnic Featuring GoFreddieGo Fab Fifties Rockers Think Green. Be Cool. Breath Easy. AquaSonix Therapy is the new treatment program combining sound pressure waves and low impact exercise in warm water therapy pools for the relief of pain and to improve flexibility and mobility. The course of therapy is 15 treatment sessions. In Oakville, AquaSonix Therapy is held at the Oaklands Regional Centre on Bond Street. Lots of Entertainment & Kid Stuff FREE BURGERS & POP Meet Rick Byers, your Candidate in the October Provincial Election. Find out where he stands on issues that matter to you. HUGE CENTRAL AIR & FURNACE $ Up to BEST PRICES EVER! SALE Call to Register 416-622-2121 Approved by the CFO for the Rick Byers campaign 4700 AND * Cash Back UP TO $2400 GOV. CASH BACK UP TO $1500 MANUFACTURERS CASH BACK + NO PAYMENT! NO INTEREST! FOR 6 MONTHS *OAC UP TO $800 HYDRO CASH BACK *Call for details. Financing Available + 8 Locations To Serve You Better! 905-849-4998 www.aireone.com 1-888-827-2665