York Region is one of four upper-tier municipalities in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The Region offers an attractive quality of life, economic vibrancy and is accessible to the City of Toronto. As of December 2003 the Region was home over 855,000 residents and over 26,000 businesses. It continues to be the preferred destination for both residents and businesses alike.

York Region has assumed increased responsibility for services since 1999 and its budget has grown to reflect the responsibilities. In 2003 York Region’s budget was $1.4 billion. The high priorities addressed in the Business Plan and Budget includes enhanced community focus on transit, policing as well as continued financial support for York Region’s three hospitals.

Building permits for 10,143 new residential units were issued in 2003. York Region issued the sixth largest number of new residential permits in the country. Source: York Region Planning & Development Services.		Estimated values of construction include additions, renovations, temporary structures and new construction. Agricultural permits are included under the industrial category Source: York Region Planning & Development Services. Area Municipal Building Permits Reports. Statistics Canada Building Permits Publication, 2003

York Region is home to an estimated total of 855,000 residents and over 26,000 businesses, all of whom turn to the Region for delivering these essential services:

	Water Treatment			Long Term Care
	Environmental Protection			Social Assistance
	Police Services			Housing Services
	Public Health Services			Economic Development and Tourism
	Emergency Medical Services			Emergency Planning
	Regional Transit System			Arterial Roads
	Court Administration			Community Development
	Garbage Disposal			Financial Management
	Sewage Treatment			Family and Children’s Services
	Regional Planning and Growth Management