2001 was the year of the launch of the Customer Service Strategy. While our service has been rated well by citizens, the Strategy puts in place a framework for continuous improvement of all that we do to serve all our customers. Comprehensive in its scope, the Strategy has already been acclaimed by other public sector organizations.

Backing the Customer Service Strategy is the sound financial capacity of the organization. In 2001, York Region received a AAA rating from Standard and Poors’ with a stable outlook. The Region continues to enjoy a reputation for leading-edge fiscal management and to pursue new ways to reduce its costs and add value in each of its departments. Staff commitment and creativity continue to ensure taxpayers receive full value for their investment.

Those who aren’t getting better don’t stay good. That truism guides York’s commitment to performance. We continue working with our regional partners to build best practices in service delivery through the Ontario Municipal CAO’s Benchmarking Initiative (OMBI). Departments continue to build performance through individual initiatives. One such initiative is the Enhanced Performance Measurement Program of the Planning and Development Services department. This program will monitor and evaluate implementation of the Regional Official Plan and the Growth Management Strategy and play a critical role in assessing our progress to Vision 2026. The program represents a unique partnership with our municipalities for planning performance and is a first of its kind in Ontario.

The Region is poised to manage its record growth, and meet all its goals. It will work with its local municipal partners to build quality of life. With dedicated staff and sound strategies, York Region’s future remains bright and promising.

Yours sincerely

Alan P. Wells
Chief Administrative Officer