Since its formation in 1973, Waterloo Region has consistently ranked as one of the fastest-growing communities in Canada. In the last five years alone, the Region's population has increased by approximately 8% -- over 6,300 people per year. With a current population of about 460,000, the Region is now the 10th largest urban area in Canada and the fourth largest in Ontario. Given this tremendous growth, and the challenges which growth can sometimes create, Regional Council initiated the development of a Growth Management Strategy entitled "Planning Our Future". The Strategy identifies where, when, and how future population and employment growth should best occur. Focusing on both our urban and rural communities, the Strategy - which is consistent with the Province's "Smart Growth" principles - also seeks to preserve and enhance the high quality of life which members of the community have come to value and enjoy.