In September I was fortunate to attend a workshop focused on Non-Profits and their data needs. The first thing I realized is just how caring and diverse Milton is. Throughout all of the discussions there were 2 common themes. The majority of people living in Milton today choose to live here. Second, there is often a lack of consistent communication.
Generally when you move into a new community you can ask your neighbours questions about where to go and what to do. But what if they have the same questions? When this happens it becomes critical for the larger community to create opportunities to accelerate the creation of these new communities. This is where a “Place of Possibilities” comes into play. Milton has become an opportunity for not only different cultures to live together, but lifestyles to intermix. I remember when Urban Milton was contained within Steeles, Thompson, Derry and Bronte Roads. I also remember when it had almost no diversity, and honestly it was kind of boring.
I hope Milton will become a very unique place to live. Currently it doesn’t have a distinct identity to speak of, rather it is currently a blend of Old/New, Rural/Urban, and Tradition/Innovation. People complain we don’t have post secondary options, certain stores or better transit. All of these things need population density to be financially viable, and to gain this density we need diversity.
Sadly this influx of diversity is creating division, and has become a major problem in the 2026 Municipal election, too many people are focusing on identity politics instead of focusing on the core issues that our local government actually controls Please do your own research before casting your vote to ensure the candidates you choose truly represent your values.
14% of eligible voters have already cast their ballots which is almost a 50% increase from 2022 If this is you, thank you and I ask that you encourage others who have not yet voted, to educate themselves on the issues and vote this Monday, October 26. Even if there is a 50% increase of voter turnout on election day this would only be 55% of eligible voters, still not enough to ensure that the diverse voices of Milton are actually heard. I would love to see 70% of Milton residents cast their vote. This would do 2 things. First it will ensure that more people are reflected on the council. Second, send a message to the Provincial and Federal Governments that Milton residents care about their communities and deserve to be heard. Sadly Milton is limited to what it can do and needs legislative and financial assistance to implement many programs critical for a growing community.
October 27, 2027
Regardless of the outcome, remember we are all still neighbours and want to live a great life here in Milton with our family and friends. Please respect the results and remember that as residents and business owners you still have a voice to help direct Milton’s future. Council can only change/fix that which they are aware of. I can recall 2 cases this year where large public input was able to influence Council’s decision. The tower development on the Slesser Property and removal of bike lanes on Dymott Ave.
Remember being an engaged resident is more than just casting a vote every 4 years; it’s about showing up for your community throughout the year.
I would like to share with you a great documentary series by TVO about democracy called Unrigged