They are named by the agricultural group and ratified by Regional Council on an annual basis. Five members represent the general agricultural community. These members are sought every three years through newspaper advertisements. Those interested in joining the Committee are asked to provide information regarding their background and experience in agricultural matters and are asked to come in for an interview. A Regional Selection Committee, composed of Regional Councillors, conducts the interviews and recommends appointments to be made by Regional Council.
Meetings are open to the public.
Issues are generally referred to HAAC by staff of Halton's Planning and Development Services Division but HAAC members frequently bring issues forward that they feel are important to the agricultural community. These issues include policy matters affecting the rural area or the agricultural industry and development applications when the subject property is in an active agricultural area. Depending on the type of application, Halton Region may be the approval authority or may provide comments to another agency. Proponents are encouraged to attend the HAAC meeting at which their application is being considered. Issues involving delegations are scheduled at the beginning of each meeting.