STATE OF THE REGION
M O N D A Y , J U N E 2 4 , 2 0 2 4
1 0 : 0 0 A M - 2 : 0 0 P M G R A N D E M P I R E B A N Q U E T & C O N V E N T I O N C E N T R E
1 0 0 N E X U S A V E , B R A M P T O N
PRESENTING SPONSOR
GOLD SPONSORS
A/V PARTNER
EVENT PARTNER
STATE OF THE REGION
10:00 am: Registration & Networking
11:00 am: Welcome & Opening Remarks
Brampton Board of Trade
Mississauga Board of Trade
Caledon Chamber of Commerce
11:30 am: Keynote Speaker
Nando Iannicca, Regional Chair, Peel Region
12:15 pm: Fireside Chat
Gary Kent, CAO, Peel Region
Jaipaul Massey-Singh, CEO, BBOT
1:15 pm: Peel Regional Police
Service Award Presentation
1:45 pm: Closing Remarks
STATE OF THE REGION
Jaipaul Massey-Singh CEO, Brampton Board of Trade
of the Region Luncheon. This annual event brings s Peel to discuss the opportunities and challenges e work collectively for our success.
The Region of Peel is comprised of over 1.5 million residents and contributes over 10% of Ontario’s GDP across all sectors of industry. Additionally, Peel is made up of some of the fastest growing cities in the country, driven largely by immigration, resulting in it not just being a hub of growth and economic activity but also one of innovation and diversity nationally. As we mark the 50th anniversary of the Region of Peel and its constituencies it’s fitting that we both celebrate those achievements and chart the path for future prosperity.
The past year has been one of uncertainly in Peel as the provincial government first announced, and then cancelled plans for dissolution that would have separated the individual municipalities. As we now assess how best to move forward it’s critical that leaders from across the region engage in thoughtful dialogue and work toward a shared vision on how we may build an even stronger and more vibrant community.
We’re particularly proud to be hosting this year’s event alongside our colleagues at the Mississauga Board of Trade and the Caledon Chamber of Commerce as an example of the type of cooperation we believe is necessary to create a unified and more sustainable region, and look forward to continuing the conversations of today into the work we do as business and community advocates in the months and years to come.
Mississauga
Board of Tradede (MBOT) is delighted to join our esteemed colleagues ade (BBOT) and the Caledon Chamber of Commerce for y g on luncheon.
This year marks a significant milestone for the Region of Peel, as it celebrates 50 years of incorporation, along with the Cities of Brampton and Mississauga, and the Town of Caledon. Additionally, this evening will mark a historic moment as Carolyn Parrish is officially sworn in as Mississauga’s 5th Mayor, following her election on June 10, 2024.
In recent months, the Region of Peel and its dedicated employees have faced considerable uncertainty regarding the future of regional governance. While questions remain about the potential transition of certain regional services, it is crucial that all stakeholders work together to ensure the best outcomes for residents and businesses in our rapidly growing region.
As new housing developments emerge and our population continues to grow, we must address our shared challenges and opportunities collaboratively. Whether it’s delivering essential social services or developing infrastructure that keeps pace with growth, we are at a pivotal point in our history. By aligning the interests of civic leaders, residents, and businesses, we can speak with a unified voice and bring innovative solutions to the obstacles we face.
As a regional community, we possess a tremendous amount of untapped potential. By leveraging the many assets of our community including our incredible diversity and highly-skilled talent pool, we will compete globally and attract game-changing investments to support growth. As we look towards the next 50 years, let’s work together to shape a modern, sophisticated, and sustainably prosperous Region of Peel. Let’s ensure that everyone benefits from our collective efforts and seize this fantastic opportunity to shape our future together.
STATE OF THE REGION
The Caledon Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to fostering a thriving business environment that enhances the quality of life in Caledon. As the "voice of good business," the Chamber promotes economic, social, and environmental health, supporting local businesses through advocacy, networking, and community engagement.
By collaborating with the Ontario and Canadian Chambers of Commerce, we address key issues and influence policy for the benefit of the business community.
Joining the Caledon Chamber means being part of a collective effort to create a vibrant and prosperous local economy that extends to the broader region of Peel.
STATE OF THE REGION KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Nando Iannicca Regional Chair and CEO, Peel Region
Nando Iannicca was appointed Regional Chairman and CEO of the Region of Peel in 2018. Previously, he served as City and Regional Councillor for Mississauga and Peel for 30 years.
As Chairman and CEO, Iannicca represents Peel in governmental affairs, leads Regional Council meetings, ensures decisions are implemented, and acts as a liaison with Peel staff. He also chairs the Board of Health and Peel Police Services Board, among other committees.
It is an honour to join you today alongside our CAO to discuss the exciting future of Peel Region. This gathering represents a unique opportunity for us to connect, collaborate, and envision the path ahead for our vibrant community.
As Regional Chair, I am continuously inspired by the resilience and innovation demonstrated by our local businesses. Your entrepreneurial spirit is a cornerstone of Peel's economic strength. Over the past year, despite challenges and uncertainties, we have witnessed remarkable advancements that underscore our collective potential.
Looking forward, our region is on the cusp of transformative growth. We are dedicated to fostering an environment that encourages business prosperity and community wellbeing. Our initiatives in infrastructure, technological innovation, and sustainable practices are designed to support this dynamic ecosystem, ensuring that Peel remains a leader in economic development.
Peel aims to create a thriving, inclusive community where every business and individual has the opportunity to succeed. By working together, we can attract new investments, drive innovation, and enhance the quality of life for all residents. Thank you for being integral to Peel's success story. I look forward to engaging with you today and forging a future filled with promise and opportunity for our region.
STATE OF THE REGION FIRESIDE CHAT
Gary Kent is the Chief Administrative Officer of Peel Region, overseeing staff, service delivery, and infrastructure for over 1.5 million residents and 200,000 businesses. A Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CGA) and Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA), he also holds an ICD.D from the Rotman School.
With 28 years of experience in senior municipal roles, including CFO for Peel and Mississauga, Kent also serves on the boards of the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators (CAMA) and ACCA. He has lived in Mississauga with his family for many years.
Gary Kent, CPA, CGA, ICD.D
Chief Administrative Officer, Peel RegionWelcome to the State of the Region 2024. It is a privilege to address such a distinguished assembly of business innovators and community leaders. This event is a vital forum for discussing the future direction of our region, and I am honoured to share this platform with our Regional Chair.
Peel Region stands at the forefront of transformation – both our own and our community’s – and we are poised for immense growth in the coming years. Over the past year 4 years as we have been dealing with the pandemic, then the uncertainty of dissolution (now revoked), and now the ongoing discussions on the future of some Public Works functions, Peel faced many of the same economic challenges as business while responding to significant developments in key areas such as housing and homelessness, climate change, infrastructure development, and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
Looking ahead, our focus remains steadfast on fiscal accountability, sustainable growth and inclusivity. We are committed to fostering a community that supports business attraction and expansion and to creating a Community for Life so that Peel remains a great place to live, work, and do business. Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Your contributions are invaluable, and together, we will shape a prosperous future for Peel.
STATE OF THE REGION
The Brampton Board of Trade is proud to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of individuals at Peel Regional Police through the Police Services Award This annual distinction honours both the efforts of those recognized as well as the relationship between local businesses and law enforcement toward maintaining a safer and more secure community.
Celebrating successes and positive stories fosters a sense of pride and appreciation for our police partners and the work they do to make Peel Region a desired place to live and do business for the benefit of us all.
PRESENTING THE POLICE SERVICES AWARD IS
DEPUTY CHIEF NICK MILINOVICH
Deputy Chief Milinovich began his policing career in 2000 with the Halton Regional Police Service, rising to Superintendent. He led units such as the Community Mobilization Bureau and Human Resources, focusing on service innovation and mental health crisis response.
On May 29, 2020, Milinovich was sworn in as Deputy Chief at Peel Regional Police. He has since contributed to the Community Safety and Well-being model, helped establish an Intimate Partner Violence unit, and developed a gun and gang violence reduction strategy. He serves on several committees, including the provincial Steering Committee for the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit and the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police Human Resources Committee
CONGRATULATIONS!
2024 PEEL REGIONAL POLICE POLICE SERVICES AWARD RECIPIENT
Constable Cassandra Allen
21 Division, Peel Regional Police
Constable Cassandra Allen has been a dedicated officer with Peel Regional Police since 2007, nearing 17 years of service. Throughout her career, she has gained extensive experience in various roles, including 12 Division Uniform Patrol, Neighbourhood Police Unit (NPU), Bicycle Patrol, Criminal Investigations Bureau, Homicide and Missing Persons Bureau, and Special Victims Unit. She is currently serving as a Constable in Uniform Patrol at 21 Division in an Acting Sergeant capacity.
Since 2021, Cassandra has been an active member of the Women's ISN and Pride ISN with Peel Regional Police. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies from the University of Guelph and a postgraduate diploma in Police Foundations Leadership from Humber College.
CONGRATULATIONS!
PEEL REGIONAL POLICE
POLICE SERVICES AWARD RECIPIENT
Detective Constable Sanya Luciani
Peel Regional Police
Detective Constable Sanya Luciani has served with Peel Regional Police since December 8, 2003. Over the years, she has worked in Uniform Patrol, the Criminal Investigation Bureau, Homicide, and the Special Victims Unit, where she currently serves.
D/C Luciani actively participates in various committees and charities, including Race Against Racism, Juvenile Diabetes, Salvation Army, Backpacks for Kids, and sponsoring families through the Special Victims Unit and Homicide during Christmas.
She holds diplomas in Police Foundations and Leadership in Policing from Humber College, as well as a Leadership program certificate from Waterloo University.