Bill Fisch Chairman and CEO

The theme of The Regional Municipality of York 2006 Annual Report is aptly entitled Investing in our Region. To invest in something is to believe in its value.

York Region is home to more than 950,000 people and our residents can appreciate the importance we place on investing in the future of our communities. Our dedication is seen in the many strategic initiatives approved by Regional Council over the past year.

Throughout our Regional Committees, we have placed a high emphasis on investing in the future. We have focused on initiatives that embrace the ideals of sustainability, promote the health and protection of our community and environment and move people and goods across York Region.

investing in our infrastructure
Through prudent planning, we have improved the integration of planning approvals with the timely delivery of required infrastructure. York Region Transit and Viva Rapid Transit have enhanced new public transit service, adding more than 10 per cent new riders while carrying in excess of 17 million passengers in 2006 alone.

investing in our environment
York Region has assisted in the acquisition of significant properties on the Oak Ridges Moraine for protection and rehabilitation. We have expanded our Blue Box Program to help increase diversion from landfill sites by almost 14 per cent, or 5,000 tonnes, in 2006.

investing in our health
In 2006, York Region reduced the risk of exposure to West Nile virus by treating approximately 77,000 catch basins throughout the Region. We also constructed a new Vaughan-Woodbridge Paramedic Response Station to serve residents.

This has been an exciting year for York Region. We were honoured to be named one of the Top 100 Employers in Canada and also one of the Top 50 Employers in the GTA. This designation is a testament to the sound and strategic leadership of this organization.

With our nine area municipalities, we continue to invest in this Region through quality service delivery. Together, we collaborate on many innovative projects and partnerships to meet the needs of a growing region. These are truly wise investments.

On behalf of York Regional Council, I am pleased to present the 2006 Annual Report: Investing in our Region. Please take a few moments to view some of our goals and accomplishments over the course of the year. Today’s accomplishments help secure a sound future for tomorrow.

Yours truly,

Bill Fisch
Chairman and CEO