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May 17, 2022
Committee hears Ottawa Climate Action Fund’s low-carbon solutions
The City’s Standing Committee on Environmental Protection, Water and Waste Management today received an update on the Ottawa Climate Action Fund’s first year of activity.
The Ottawa Climate Action Fund’s mission is to accelerate Ottawa’s transition to an equitable, carbon-neutral future. Launched in May 2021, it is an initiative of the Ottawa Community Foundation and an independent partner of the City. It is also one of seven centers of the Low Carbon Cities Canada (LC3) network, a federal investment in municipal climate action administered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. It partners with public, private, philanthropic and community leaders to invest in organizations that mainstream climate action.
In its first year, the Ottawa Climate Action Fund took action in its three priority areas: low-carbon buildings, sustainable transportation and 15-minute neighbourhoods. The fund approved grants and payments of more than $400,000 and leveraged an additional $1.3 million in funding to invest in projects such as pilots of electric vehicle carsharing and deep residential retrofits for entire neighbourhoods.
The work of the Ottawa Climate Action Fund supports Energy Evolution, the City’s action plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2040 within the corporation, and by 2050 Ottawa-wide. Its vision is to transform Ottawa into a thriving city powered by clean, renewable energy.
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May 17, 2022
Committee hears Ottawa Climate Action Fund’s low-carbon solutions
The City’s Standing Committee on Environmental Protection, Water and Waste Management today received an update on the Ottawa Climate Action Fund’s first year of activity.
The Ottawa Climate Action Fund’s mission is to accelerate Ottawa’s transition to an equitable, carbon-neutral future. Launched in May 2021, it is an initiative of the Ottawa Community Foundation and an independent partner of the City. It is also one of seven centers of the Low Carbon Cities Canada (LC3) network, a federal investment in municipal climate action administered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. It partners with public, private, philanthropic and community leaders to invest in organizations that mainstream climate action.
In its first year, the Ottawa Climate Action Fund took action in its three priority areas: low-carbon buildings, sustainable transportation and 15-minute neighbourhoods. The fund approved grants and payments of more than $400,000 and leveraged an additional $1.3 million in funding to invest in projects such as pilots of electric vehicle carsharing and deep residential retrofits for entire neighbourhoods.
The work of the Ottawa Climate Action Fund supports Energy Evolution, the City’s action plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2040 within the corporation, and by 2050 Ottawa-wide. Its vision is to transform Ottawa into a thriving city powered by clean, renewable energy.
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May 13, 2022
City to hold kick-off to 2022 construction season event
Please join Transportation Committee Chair Tim Tierney and Barrhaven Ward Councillor Jan Harder to kick off Ottawa’s 2022 construction season.
City staff will be available to answer questions about the 2022 construction season, including major projects and potential traffic impacts.
Date: Monday, May 16, 2022
Time: 10:30 am
Place: Top of new bridge, Strandherd Drive Widening project, Ottawa
Media can confirm attendance at medias@ottawa.ca.
Ottawa Public Health continues to recommend wearing a mask to help to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Anyone attending this event must not present any symptoms associated with COVID-19. If you are feeling ill, please refrain from attending.
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May 12, 2022
Committee seeks to protect historic building as ByWard Market site is redeveloped
The City’s Planning Committee today approved an approach to protect a historic York Street building as part of a larger redevelopment in the ByWard Market.
The approach would see the historic S.J. Major Building at 126 York Street integrated with a proposed 22-storey residential building being planned on George Street, immediately to the south. The applicant would conserve and rehabilitate the historic building, converting it into a 214-room hotel.
Built in 1913 as a wholesale grocery warehouse, the building would undergo significant restoration, including cleaning and repairing its front façade, red brick and stone masonry. The original York Street entrance would be reconstructed, with plans to restore the stone entrance steps, stone lions and the sign engraved S.J. Major Ltd. All windows in the historic building would also be replaced, with exact replicas on the front.
The Committee will consider a related zoning amendment for the 22-storey highrise portion at an upcoming meeting.
The Committee also approved a zoning amendment to permit a 10-storey building with 139 rental apartments west of Bell Street, between Arlington Avenue and Louisa Street. The plan is to retain part of the existing three-storey building on the site and integrate it with the new building, which would have a three-storey brick base. The development would intensify an underused site that is compatible with its surroundings, notably the 13-storey building located directly across Bell Street.
Recommendations from today’s meeting will rise to Council on Wednesday, May 25.
May 12, 2022
Committee seeks to protect historic building as ByWard Market site is redeveloped
The City’s Planning Committee today approved an approach to protect a historic York Street building as part of a larger redevelopment in the ByWard Market.
The approach would see the historic S.J. Major Building at 126 York Street integrated with a proposed 22-storey residential building being planned on George Street, immediately to the south. The applicant would conserve and rehabilitate the historic building, converting it into a 214-room hotel.
Built in 1913 as a wholesale grocery warehouse, the building would undergo significant restoration, including cleaning and repairing its front façade, red brick and stone masonry. The original York Street entrance would be reconstructed, with plans to restore the stone entrance steps, stone lions and the sign engraved S.J. Major Ltd. All windows in the historic building would also be replaced, with exact replicas on the front.
The Committee will consider a related zoning amendment for the 22-storey highrise portion at an upcoming meeting.
The Committee also approved a zoning amendment to permit a 10-storey building with 139 rental apartments west of Bell Street, between Arlington Avenue and Louisa Street. The plan is to retain part of the existing three-storey building on the site and integrate it with the new building, which would have a three-storey brick base. The development would intensify an underused site that is compatible with its surroundings, notably the 13-storey building located directly across Bell Street.
Recommendations from today’s meeting will rise to Council on Wednesday, May 25.
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May 11, 2022
Council approves framework for request to help fund new Civic campus
Council approved a financial framework and guiding principles today for developing a response to The Ottawa Hospital’s request for a one-time City contribution of up to $150 million, to support development of the new Civic campus.
Many Ontario municipalities have made such voluntary contributions to the local cost shares of their community hospitals and staff will report back in the next term of Council with options for the City’s portion. That report will include a background study and a proposal for a special area development charge to fund future services required for the new campus.
Council approved measures to help conserve and commemorate the heritage of a Carlington North community. The City will establish the Veterans’ Housing Character Area to protect the heritage character and built form of the neighbourhood south of Carling Avenue, between Fisher Avenue and Merivale Road, built at the end of the Second World War to house war workers and veterans. The designation recognizes the collective value of the area and comes with a set of design guidelines to help guide new construction or renovations.
Council also approved a motion to recapitalize the Better Homes Ottawa loan program with an additional $30 million in loan capital. The program offers loans for home energy efficiency retrofits and supports residents seeking to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions through long-term loans that are tied to the property. The initial pilot was so successful that all allocated funding has been used.
May 11, 2022
Council approves framework for request to help fund new Civic campus
Council approved a financial framework and guiding principles today for developing a response to The Ottawa Hospital’s request for a one-time City contribution of up to $150 million, to support development of the new Civic campus.
Many Ontario municipalities have made such voluntary contributions to the local cost shares of their community hospitals and staff will report back in the next term of Council with options for the City’s portion. That report will include a background study and a proposal for a special area development charge to fund future services required for the new campus.
Council approved measures to help conserve and commemorate the heritage of a Carlington North community. The City will establish the Veterans’ Housing Character Area to protect the heritage character and built form of the neighbourhood south of Carling Avenue, between Fisher Avenue and Merivale Road, built at the end of the Second World War to house war workers and veterans. The designation recognizes the collective value of the area and comes with a set of design guidelines to help guide new construction or renovations.
Council also approved a motion to recapitalize the Better Homes Ottawa loan program with an additional $30 million in loan capital. The program offers loans for home energy efficiency retrofits and supports residents seeking to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions through long-term loans that are tied to the property. The initial pilot was so successful that all allocated funding has been used.
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April 27, 2022
Council makes organic waste diversion mandatory for multi-residential properties
Council approved a strategy to get more multi-residential properties to divert organic waste. The strategy will make organic waste diversion mandatory for all multi-residential properties that receive City waste collection services. Staff will continue to introduce green bins on a voluntary basis for the remainder of 2022, and will require all new multi-residential properties beginning City collection service as of June 1, 2022 to participate in the program. Staff will bring forward a plan in 2023 to onboard all remaining multi-residential properties.
In addition to mandatory organics diversion, the City will increase promotion and education, pilot new waste technologies, incorporate building design best practices to encourage participation in recycling and organics diversion programs, and update its collections contracts. This is one of several City projects designed to support the City’s new Solid Waste Master Plan, to be completed in 2023. It also aligns with the Province’s Food and Organic Waste Policy Statement to reduce food waste from multi-residential properties by 50 per cent by 2025 and require those properties to provide food and organic waste collection to their residents.
Council received an update on the status and next steps for the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan, including its new governance structure. The new structure includes community leadership action teams to develop and implement detailed plans for each priority, an advisory committee to provide strategic direction, a Councillor sponsors group to champion the plan and to guide strategy, and staff to support the entire initiative and coordinate with participating agencies.
The City will begin recruiting for these bodies in Q2 2022, and will include a broad range of community agencies, institutions, businesses, and individuals with lived experience of the priorities being addressed. A financial strategy and performance measurement and evaluation plan will be brought forward in Q1 2023.
Council approved a zoning amendment that would help the National Capital Commission to revitalize Westboro Beach. This amendment allows construction of a new pavilion that would permit a variety of new uses to help revitalize the beach, including restaurant, bar, patio, farmers’ market and recreational facility. Parking will move east of the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway and the existing lot will be turned into park space. To facilitate construction, Westboro Beach will remain closed for the 2022 season.
Ottawa Police Service and City staff updated Council on preparations to ensure public safety during the Rolling Thunder event this coming weekend.
April 27, 2022
Council makes organic waste diversion mandatory for multi-residential properties
Council approved a strategy to get more multi-residential properties to divert organic waste. The strategy will make organic waste diversion mandatory for all multi-residential properties that receive City waste collection services. Staff will continue to introduce green bins on a voluntary basis for the remainder of 2022, and will require all new multi-residential properties beginning City collection service as of June 1, 2022 to participate in the program. Staff will bring forward a plan in 2023 to onboard all remaining multi-residential properties.
In addition to mandatory organics diversion, the City will increase promotion and education, pilot new waste technologies, incorporate building design best practices to encourage participation in recycling and organics diversion programs, and update its collections contracts. This is one of several City projects designed to support the City’s new Solid Waste Master Plan, to be completed in 2023. It also aligns with the Province’s Food and Organic Waste Policy Statement to reduce food waste from multi-residential properties by 50 per cent by 2025 and require those properties to provide food and organic waste collection to their residents.
Council received an update on the status and next steps for the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan, including its new governance structure. The new structure includes community leadership action teams to develop and implement detailed plans for each priority, an advisory committee to provide strategic direction, a Councillor sponsors group to champion the plan and to guide strategy, and staff to support the entire initiative and coordinate with participating agencies.
The City will begin recruiting for these bodies in Q2 2022, and will include a broad range of community agencies, institutions, businesses, and individuals with lived experience of the priorities being addressed. A financial strategy and performance measurement and evaluation plan will be brought forward in Q1 2023.
Council approved a zoning amendment that would help the National Capital Commission to revitalize Westboro Beach. This amendment allows construction of a new pavilion that would permit a variety of new uses to help revitalize the beach, including restaurant, bar, patio, farmers’ market and recreational facility. Parking will move east of the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway and the existing lot will be turned into park space. To facilitate construction, Westboro Beach will remain closed for the 2022 season.
Ottawa Police Service and City staff updated Council on preparations to ensure public safety during the Rolling Thunder event this coming weekend.
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April 21, 2022
Committee hears update on Community Safety and Well-Being Plan
The Community and Protective Services Committee today received an update on the status and next steps for the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan, including its new governance structure.
The plan aims to improve the safety and well-being of all Ottawa’s communities, prioritizing equity and intersectionality for those who experience discrimination, marginalization and racism. The new governance structure will move the plan forward by establishing:
The advisory committee and action teams will aim to include a broad range of partners with community agencies, institutions, businesses, and individuals with lived experience of the priorities being addressed. The City will begin recruiting for these bodies in Q2 2022. A financial strategy and performance measurement and evaluation plan will be brought forward in Q1 2023.
Committee received the proposed spending plan for a new provincial Homelessness Prevention Program, which consolidates three existing funding streams giving cities greater flexibility to support a wider range of homelessness prevention and supportive housing activities. The plan gives the City $47.6 million to allocate over the next year to services and supports such as long-term housing allowances, a landlord damage fund for the Housing First program, residential services homes, community outreach and emergency shelters.
About $3 million in Canada-Ontario Community Housing Benefits would provide an estimated 400 households with an average monthly subsidy of $614 towards housing costs for permanent private market housing, the Committee learned. Over the next year, the benefits would go to eligible priority groups, including survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking, families at risk of or experiencing homelessness, older adults, people with disabilities and Indigenous persons.
The Committee received the investment plan for more than $14 million provided to the City through the Canada-Ontario Community Housing Initiative. Over the next year, $12.3 million would fund social housing capital repairs and retrofits, with the remainder going to transitional operating funding and administration.
Recommendations from today’s meeting requiring Council approval will rise to Council on Wednesday, April 27
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April 19, 2022
Committee approves mandatory organics diversion for multi-residential properties
The City’s Standing Committee on Environmental Protection, Water and Waste Management today approved a strategy to get more multi-residential properties to divert organic waste.
The City collects waste at 2,150 multi-residential properties, such as apartments and townhomes, and 929 already participate in the Green Bin program, which diverts residential organic waste away from the Trail Waste Facility Landfill. The strategy would make organic waste diversion mandatory for all such properties that receive City waste collection services. Staff would continue to introduce green bins on a voluntary basis for the rest of 2022, with all new properties starting City collection service as of Wednesday, June 1 being required to participate in the program. Staff would bring forward a plan in 2023 to onboard all remaining properties.
In addition to mandatory organics diversion, the City would increase promotion and education, pilot new waste technologies, integrate best practices at new and existing properties, and update its collections contract.
This is one of several City projects designed to support the City’s new Solid Waste Master Plan, to be completed in 2023. It also aligns with the Province’s Food and Organic Waste Policy Statement to reduce food waste from multi-residential properties by 50 per cent by 2025 and require those properties to provide food and organic waste collection to their residents.
This report will rise to Council on Wednesday, April 27.
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April 14, 2022
Committee approves zoning for new Westboro Beach pavilion
The City’s Planning Committee today approved a zoning amendment that would help revitalize Westboro Beach.
The National Capital Commission is continuing work to redevelop parklands along the south shore of the Ottawa River. This amendment would permit construction of a new pavilion that incorporates an existing heritage building as part of the design. It would also permit a variety of new uses to help revitalize the beach, including restaurant, bar, patio, farmers’ market and recreational facility. Parking would move east of the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway so the existing lot can be turned into park space.
The NCC plans to begin construction this year and Westboro Beach would remain closed for the 2022 season.
While development in Ottawa slowed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City’s Planning department has reported that growth picked up in 2021. The Committee received a year-end report that shows the City received 1,375 planning applications last year. That is a 21-per-cent increase over 2020 and makes 2021 one of the busiest years for applications on record.
The rising cost of housing is partly due to demand outstripping the pace of new construction, and City planning staff are making efforts to improve service and speed up delivery times for planning applications. Despite the increased volume in 2021, the department was nonetheless able to approve a majority of applications on time or within 30 days of Council-approved timelines.
The Committee also approved several zoning amendments that would support the growth of residential communities in Ottawa’s south. An approved amendment on Spratt Road in Riverside South would see construction of 1,240 homes between Earl Armstrong and Rideau roads – a mix of detached homes, townhouses and low-rise apartments.
Farther west, the Committee approved two developments along Borrisokane Road. One at 3285 and 3305 Borrisokane Road would see 942 detached homes and townhouses built north of the Jock River and south of Strandherd Drive. South of the Jock, an approved amendment at 3713 Borrisokane Road would see lands once operated as the Drummond mining pit redeveloped with a mix of 650 detached homes and townhouses.
Recommendations from today’s meeting will rise to Council on Wednesday, April 27.
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April 13, 2022
Council approves cultural protocol with Anishinabe Algonquin Nation
Council today approved a new protocol to frame the City’s relationship on cultural matters with the Anishinabe Algonquin Host Nation. The protocol will guide partnerships and shared action in the areas of arts, heritage and culture.
An Anishinabe Algonquin Nation Consultative Culture Circle will be established in 2022, with representatives of the 11 federally recognized Anishinabe Algonquin First Nations. The Circle will gather two to three times per year to monitor implementation of the civic cultural protocol and implementation plan and to respond to specific questions from various City of Ottawa departments.
Council also approved a plan to ensure respite and physical distancing centres continue to operate. The centres were established as part of the COVID-19 emergency response. The City will also continue supporting agencies that provide day programing and related services. The estimated cost to continue these services for the rest of the year is $13.6 million.
Council approved a plan to establish a High-Performance Development Standard for new Ottawa developments, to further curb greenhouse gas emissions from buildings in Ottawa. Using a series of metrics to help determine how effective new building projects are at advancing sustainable and resilient design, the new standard will ensure all Ottawa builders are meeting the same minimum targets for projects that require a site plan control application or a plan of subdivision application.
Council approved a new secondary plan to guide proposed development in Manor Park. The plan sets area-specific policies, land-use designations and maximum building heights for lands that will eventually house about 3,800 residential units along with commercial and park space. The applicant has also signed a memorandum of understanding that commits them not to displace current residents of 650 townhouses proposed for redevelopment.
Council approved updates to the Rain Ready Ottawa pilot program, which encourages property owners to reduce the harmful impacts of rainwater runoff on our streams and rivers. A new online course will help residents assess eligibility for the existing rebate program and will provide an alternative to that popular home assessment program, which currently has a long wait list. This would help residents qualify sooner for rebates to start their own yard improvement projects.
Council also approved phasing out the use of City-owned gas-powered lawn and yard equipment, to be replaced with electric alternatives where operationally feasible. The aim is to reduce air and noise pollution generated by gas-powered equipment, such as leaf blowers. The phase-out will begin this summer and staff will report back with a detailed plan to reduce emissions and the environmental impacts of equipment later this year.
Council also appointed Councillor Catherine Kitts to the Ottawa Public Library Board.
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April 21, 2022
Committee hears update on Community Safety and Well-Being Plan
The Community and Protective Services Committee today received an update on the status and next steps for the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan, including its new governance structure.
The plan aims to improve the safety and well-being of all Ottawa’s communities, prioritizing equity and intersectionality for those who experience discrimination, marginalization and racism. The new governance structure will move the plan forward by establishing:
- Community leadership action teams to develop and implement detailed plans for each priority
- An advisory committee to provide strategic direction
- A Councillor sponsors group to champion the plan and to guide policy and financial strategy
- An office of dedicated City staff to support the entire initiative and coordinate with participating agencies
The advisory committee and action teams will aim to include a broad range of partners with community agencies, institutions, businesses, and individuals with lived experience of the priorities being addressed. The City will begin recruiting for these bodies in Q2 2022. A financial strategy and performance measurement and evaluation plan will be brought forward in Q1 2023.
Committee received the proposed spending plan for a new provincial Homelessness Prevention Program, which consolidates three existing funding streams giving cities greater flexibility to support a wider range of homelessness prevention and supportive housing activities. The plan gives the City $47.6 million to allocate over the next year to services and supports such as long-term housing allowances, a landlord damage fund for the Housing First program, residential services homes, community outreach and emergency shelters.
About $3 million in Canada-Ontario Community Housing Benefits would provide an estimated 400 households with an average monthly subsidy of $614 towards housing costs for permanent private market housing, the Committee learned. Over the next year, the benefits would go to eligible priority groups, including survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking, families at risk of or experiencing homelessness, older adults, people with disabilities and Indigenous persons.
The Committee received the investment plan for more than $14 million provided to the City through the Canada-Ontario Community Housing Initiative. Over the next year, $12.3 million would fund social housing capital repairs and retrofits, with the remainder going to transitional operating funding and administration.
Recommendations from today’s meeting requiring Council approval will rise to Council on Wednesday, April 27
____________________________________________________________________
April 19, 2022
Committee approves mandatory organics diversion for multi-residential properties
The City’s Standing Committee on Environmental Protection, Water and Waste Management today approved a strategy to get more multi-residential properties to divert organic waste.
The City collects waste at 2,150 multi-residential properties, such as apartments and townhomes, and 929 already participate in the Green Bin program, which diverts residential organic waste away from the Trail Waste Facility Landfill. The strategy would make organic waste diversion mandatory for all such properties that receive City waste collection services. Staff would continue to introduce green bins on a voluntary basis for the rest of 2022, with all new properties starting City collection service as of Wednesday, June 1 being required to participate in the program. Staff would bring forward a plan in 2023 to onboard all remaining properties.
In addition to mandatory organics diversion, the City would increase promotion and education, pilot new waste technologies, integrate best practices at new and existing properties, and update its collections contract.
This is one of several City projects designed to support the City’s new Solid Waste Master Plan, to be completed in 2023. It also aligns with the Province’s Food and Organic Waste Policy Statement to reduce food waste from multi-residential properties by 50 per cent by 2025 and require those properties to provide food and organic waste collection to their residents.
This report will rise to Council on Wednesday, April 27.
____________________________________________________________________
April 14, 2022
Committee approves zoning for new Westboro Beach pavilion
The City’s Planning Committee today approved a zoning amendment that would help revitalize Westboro Beach.
The National Capital Commission is continuing work to redevelop parklands along the south shore of the Ottawa River. This amendment would permit construction of a new pavilion that incorporates an existing heritage building as part of the design. It would also permit a variety of new uses to help revitalize the beach, including restaurant, bar, patio, farmers’ market and recreational facility. Parking would move east of the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway so the existing lot can be turned into park space.
The NCC plans to begin construction this year and Westboro Beach would remain closed for the 2022 season.
While development in Ottawa slowed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City’s Planning department has reported that growth picked up in 2021. The Committee received a year-end report that shows the City received 1,375 planning applications last year. That is a 21-per-cent increase over 2020 and makes 2021 one of the busiest years for applications on record.
The rising cost of housing is partly due to demand outstripping the pace of new construction, and City planning staff are making efforts to improve service and speed up delivery times for planning applications. Despite the increased volume in 2021, the department was nonetheless able to approve a majority of applications on time or within 30 days of Council-approved timelines.
The Committee also approved several zoning amendments that would support the growth of residential communities in Ottawa’s south. An approved amendment on Spratt Road in Riverside South would see construction of 1,240 homes between Earl Armstrong and Rideau roads – a mix of detached homes, townhouses and low-rise apartments.
Farther west, the Committee approved two developments along Borrisokane Road. One at 3285 and 3305 Borrisokane Road would see 942 detached homes and townhouses built north of the Jock River and south of Strandherd Drive. South of the Jock, an approved amendment at 3713 Borrisokane Road would see lands once operated as the Drummond mining pit redeveloped with a mix of 650 detached homes and townhouses.
Recommendations from today’s meeting will rise to Council on Wednesday, April 27.
____________________________________________________________________
April 13, 2022
Council approves cultural protocol with Anishinabe Algonquin Nation
Council today approved a new protocol to frame the City’s relationship on cultural matters with the Anishinabe Algonquin Host Nation. The protocol will guide partnerships and shared action in the areas of arts, heritage and culture.
An Anishinabe Algonquin Nation Consultative Culture Circle will be established in 2022, with representatives of the 11 federally recognized Anishinabe Algonquin First Nations. The Circle will gather two to three times per year to monitor implementation of the civic cultural protocol and implementation plan and to respond to specific questions from various City of Ottawa departments.
Council also approved a plan to ensure respite and physical distancing centres continue to operate. The centres were established as part of the COVID-19 emergency response. The City will also continue supporting agencies that provide day programing and related services. The estimated cost to continue these services for the rest of the year is $13.6 million.
Council approved a plan to establish a High-Performance Development Standard for new Ottawa developments, to further curb greenhouse gas emissions from buildings in Ottawa. Using a series of metrics to help determine how effective new building projects are at advancing sustainable and resilient design, the new standard will ensure all Ottawa builders are meeting the same minimum targets for projects that require a site plan control application or a plan of subdivision application.
Council approved a new secondary plan to guide proposed development in Manor Park. The plan sets area-specific policies, land-use designations and maximum building heights for lands that will eventually house about 3,800 residential units along with commercial and park space. The applicant has also signed a memorandum of understanding that commits them not to displace current residents of 650 townhouses proposed for redevelopment.
Council approved updates to the Rain Ready Ottawa pilot program, which encourages property owners to reduce the harmful impacts of rainwater runoff on our streams and rivers. A new online course will help residents assess eligibility for the existing rebate program and will provide an alternative to that popular home assessment program, which currently has a long wait list. This would help residents qualify sooner for rebates to start their own yard improvement projects.
Council also approved phasing out the use of City-owned gas-powered lawn and yard equipment, to be replaced with electric alternatives where operationally feasible. The aim is to reduce air and noise pollution generated by gas-powered equipment, such as leaf blowers. The phase-out will begin this summer and staff will report back with a detailed plan to reduce emissions and the environmental impacts of equipment later this year.
Council also appointed Councillor Catherine Kitts to the Ottawa Public Library Board.
___________________________________________________________________________
March 31, 2022
Committee approves cultural protocol with Anishinabe Algonquin Nation
The Community and Protective Services Committee today approved a new protocol to frame the City’s relationship on cultural matters with the Anishinabe Algonquin Host Nation. The protocol would guide partnerships and shared action in the areas of arts, heritage and culture.
The Anishinabe Algonquin Nation Consultative Culture Circle would provide the City with guidance and advice directly from the Host Nation, including elders, knowledge keepers and cultural representatives from each of the 11 federally recognized Anishinabe Algonquin First Nations.
The protocol’s implementation plan would see efforts in the next five years towards achieving objectives and actions in 19 areas, including:
The protocol is a key action in the Reconciliation Action Plan, which City Council approved in February 2018 as a response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
The Committee approved a plan to continue operating the temporary respite and physical distancing centres the City established in 2020 to address urgent community need as part of the COVID-19 emergency response. The City would also continue supporting agencies that provide day programing and related services. The estimated cost to continue these services for the rest of the year is $13.6 million.
The plan outlines options to transition these temporary services safely to a sustainable service system. Over the longer term, staff would also develop a plan for single adult community shelters, create a service hub at the City’s Employment and Social Services office, and report back in early 2023 with a plan to address the needs for day programming services in Vanier and Centretown.
Two new approved policies would formalize the City practice of providing recreation funding and facility access. The new policies standardize procedures and policies within agreements between former municipalities and community groups. They would ensure the City continues to provide recreation funding and access to City facilities and lands for 36 community associations that had such agreements. Staff would also have authority to sign new agreements as budgets permit.
Recommendations from today’s meeting requiring Council approval will rise to Council on Wednesday, April 13.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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March 24, 2022
Committee approves secondary plan with commitments to Manor Park residents
Ottawa – The City’s Planning Committee today approved a new secondary plan to guide proposed development in two specific areas of the Manor Park community.
The applicant plans to redevelop about 13 hectares of property over several decades, adding about 3,800 residential units, nearly 10,000 square metres of commercial space and more than 16,000 square metres of park space.
Manor Park North, located mostly west of St. Laurent Boulevard and north of Hemlock Road, would be developed with low-rise and mid-rise buildings. Manor Park South, which mostly includes properties along Brittany Drive, would see more mid-rise and high-rise buildings.
The secondary plan would only take effect after the applicant signs a memorandum of understanding committing them to not displace any residents living in the 650 townhouses that exist on the site. Affected residents would be given an option to relocate to an equivalent unit at the same rent within the area. The agreement would also ensure at least 10 per cent of new rental units in each phase would be offered as affordable for a period of 20 years.
Recommendations from today’s meeting will rise to Council on Wednesday, April 13.
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Committee approves cultural protocol with Anishinabe Algonquin Nation
The Community and Protective Services Committee today approved a new protocol to frame the City’s relationship on cultural matters with the Anishinabe Algonquin Host Nation. The protocol would guide partnerships and shared action in the areas of arts, heritage and culture.
The Anishinabe Algonquin Nation Consultative Culture Circle would provide the City with guidance and advice directly from the Host Nation, including elders, knowledge keepers and cultural representatives from each of the 11 federally recognized Anishinabe Algonquin First Nations.
The protocol’s implementation plan would see efforts in the next five years towards achieving objectives and actions in 19 areas, including:
- Appointing an Anishinabe Algonquin Nation Elder as an ex-officio City Council member
- Developing an inclusive municipal commemoration policy
- Increasing access to cultural funding programs
- Encouraging Host Nation representatives to participate in cultural policy development
- Fostering collaboration between the Host Nation and the City on archaeology
- Developing a process to include Anishinabemowin Algonquin language in City buildings and on signs, websites and social media, and at events
- Procuring materials by Host Nation authors and creators for the Ottawa Public Library's collection
- Commissioning Host Nation artists for public art and hosting their exhibits at City galleries
The protocol is a key action in the Reconciliation Action Plan, which City Council approved in February 2018 as a response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
The Committee approved a plan to continue operating the temporary respite and physical distancing centres the City established in 2020 to address urgent community need as part of the COVID-19 emergency response. The City would also continue supporting agencies that provide day programing and related services. The estimated cost to continue these services for the rest of the year is $13.6 million.
The plan outlines options to transition these temporary services safely to a sustainable service system. Over the longer term, staff would also develop a plan for single adult community shelters, create a service hub at the City’s Employment and Social Services office, and report back in early 2023 with a plan to address the needs for day programming services in Vanier and Centretown.
Two new approved policies would formalize the City practice of providing recreation funding and facility access. The new policies standardize procedures and policies within agreements between former municipalities and community groups. They would ensure the City continues to provide recreation funding and access to City facilities and lands for 36 community associations that had such agreements. Staff would also have authority to sign new agreements as budgets permit.
Recommendations from today’s meeting requiring Council approval will rise to Council on Wednesday, April 13.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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March 24, 2022
Committee approves secondary plan with commitments to Manor Park residents
Ottawa – The City’s Planning Committee today approved a new secondary plan to guide proposed development in two specific areas of the Manor Park community.
The applicant plans to redevelop about 13 hectares of property over several decades, adding about 3,800 residential units, nearly 10,000 square metres of commercial space and more than 16,000 square metres of park space.
Manor Park North, located mostly west of St. Laurent Boulevard and north of Hemlock Road, would be developed with low-rise and mid-rise buildings. Manor Park South, which mostly includes properties along Brittany Drive, would see more mid-rise and high-rise buildings.
The secondary plan would only take effect after the applicant signs a memorandum of understanding committing them to not displace any residents living in the 650 townhouses that exist on the site. Affected residents would be given an option to relocate to an equivalent unit at the same rent within the area. The agreement would also ensure at least 10 per cent of new rental units in each phase would be offered as affordable for a period of 20 years.
Recommendations from today’s meeting will rise to Council on Wednesday, April 13.
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March 23, 2022
Council approves tax on vacant residences
Ottawa – City Council today approved a residential vacant unit tax to be charged on non-principal residences left vacant for more than 184 days in a year. Requiring owners to pay one per cent of the assessed value of such units is meant to encourage them to occupy, sell or rent their properties to help increase housing supply in Ottawa.
About 330,000 residential property owners across Ottawa will need to make an annual declaration of vacancy between January 1 and mid-March or be charged a $250 late declaration fee. The fee will only be imposed in the second declaration year, 2024, to provide residents ample time to adjust to the new system. The tax would be added to the final property tax bill each year, and net revenues from the tax would fund affordable housing. It is anticipated to generate about $6.6 million per year. The City needs to seek provincial approval to designate Ottawa to levy the tax. The tax would be implemented in 2022, with the first annual declaration and billing starting in 2023.
Council approved continuing the Electric Kick Scooter Pilot in 2022, with some changes to improve the program and address complaints. Demand for e-scooters increased last year, both in total trips taken and average daily trips. Changes for 2022 will address the most common complaints of sidewalk riding and improper parking, and will improve reporting, monitoring and enforcement. Staff will report back at the end of the 2022 pilot with recommendations for the future of the program.
Council approved continuing the Patio Innovation Program in 2022. Measures include temporarily closing sections of roads for patio expansions, removing capacity restrictions for café seating, permitting pop-up retail vending in the right of way, and setting a closing time of 2 am for all patios and café seating. Staff will review the 2022 season and report back on the potential for permanent amendments to the relevant by-laws.
Council also approved the functional design of the Brian Coburn Boulevard extension and the planned Cumberland Transitway between Navan and Blair roads. The extended roadway and bus rapid transitway would improve transit travel times and reliability, and address travel demand between Orléans South and the south urban area as well as Highway 417. New multi-use pathways would connect pedestrians and cyclists to Blackburn Hamlet, the Chapel Hill Park and Ride, the Bradley Estates community, the Prescott Russell Trail and NCC pathways.
Council approved a 2022 Convoy Occupation Property Tax Deferral Program for retail and commercial property owners in the impacted areas. The program allows eligible properties to defer their interim tax bill due on March 17, 2022, and final bill taxes due on June 16, 2022, to September 15, 2022. This deferral will be retroactive to March 17, 2022. The program’s application form will be available on ottawa.ca on March 24, 2022.
Council appointed Councillor Cathy Curry to the Ottawa Police Services Board.
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Council approves tax on vacant residences
Ottawa – City Council today approved a residential vacant unit tax to be charged on non-principal residences left vacant for more than 184 days in a year. Requiring owners to pay one per cent of the assessed value of such units is meant to encourage them to occupy, sell or rent their properties to help increase housing supply in Ottawa.
About 330,000 residential property owners across Ottawa will need to make an annual declaration of vacancy between January 1 and mid-March or be charged a $250 late declaration fee. The fee will only be imposed in the second declaration year, 2024, to provide residents ample time to adjust to the new system. The tax would be added to the final property tax bill each year, and net revenues from the tax would fund affordable housing. It is anticipated to generate about $6.6 million per year. The City needs to seek provincial approval to designate Ottawa to levy the tax. The tax would be implemented in 2022, with the first annual declaration and billing starting in 2023.
Council approved continuing the Electric Kick Scooter Pilot in 2022, with some changes to improve the program and address complaints. Demand for e-scooters increased last year, both in total trips taken and average daily trips. Changes for 2022 will address the most common complaints of sidewalk riding and improper parking, and will improve reporting, monitoring and enforcement. Staff will report back at the end of the 2022 pilot with recommendations for the future of the program.
Council approved continuing the Patio Innovation Program in 2022. Measures include temporarily closing sections of roads for patio expansions, removing capacity restrictions for café seating, permitting pop-up retail vending in the right of way, and setting a closing time of 2 am for all patios and café seating. Staff will review the 2022 season and report back on the potential for permanent amendments to the relevant by-laws.
Council also approved the functional design of the Brian Coburn Boulevard extension and the planned Cumberland Transitway between Navan and Blair roads. The extended roadway and bus rapid transitway would improve transit travel times and reliability, and address travel demand between Orléans South and the south urban area as well as Highway 417. New multi-use pathways would connect pedestrians and cyclists to Blackburn Hamlet, the Chapel Hill Park and Ride, the Bradley Estates community, the Prescott Russell Trail and NCC pathways.
Council approved a 2022 Convoy Occupation Property Tax Deferral Program for retail and commercial property owners in the impacted areas. The program allows eligible properties to defer their interim tax bill due on March 17, 2022, and final bill taxes due on June 16, 2022, to September 15, 2022. This deferral will be retroactive to March 17, 2022. The program’s application form will be available on ottawa.ca on March 24, 2022.
Council appointed Councillor Cathy Curry to the Ottawa Police Services Board.
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March 1, 2022
Committee approves tax on vacant residences
Ottawa – The City’s Finance and Economic Development Committee today approved a residential vacant unit tax to be charged on non-principal residences left vacant for more that 184 days in a year. Requiring owners to pay one per cent of the assessed value of such units is meant to encourage them to occupy, sell or rent their properties to help increase housing supply in Ottawa.
About 330,000 residential property owners across Ottawa would need to make an annual declaration of vacancy between January 1 and mid-March or be charged a $250 late declaration fee. The tax would be added to the final property tax bill each year, and net revenues from the tax would fund affordable housing. It is anticipated to generate about $6.6 million per year.
If approved by Council, the City would need to seek provincial approval to designate Ottawa to levy the tax. The tax would be implemented in 2022, with the first annual declaration and billing starting in 2023.
The Committee also received an update on the 2022 Municipal Elections, including a recommendation to offer a special mail-in ballot for the October 2022 election, as well as for any by-elections that might occur during the 2022-2026 term of Council. In light of the possibility that the pandemic may still be an issue, this process will allow electors the opportunity to vote without having to attend a voting place in-person. Voting day is Monday, October 24.
Recommendations from today’s meeting will rise to Council on Wednesday, March 9.
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Committee approves tax on vacant residences
Ottawa – The City’s Finance and Economic Development Committee today approved a residential vacant unit tax to be charged on non-principal residences left vacant for more that 184 days in a year. Requiring owners to pay one per cent of the assessed value of such units is meant to encourage them to occupy, sell or rent their properties to help increase housing supply in Ottawa.
About 330,000 residential property owners across Ottawa would need to make an annual declaration of vacancy between January 1 and mid-March or be charged a $250 late declaration fee. The tax would be added to the final property tax bill each year, and net revenues from the tax would fund affordable housing. It is anticipated to generate about $6.6 million per year.
If approved by Council, the City would need to seek provincial approval to designate Ottawa to levy the tax. The tax would be implemented in 2022, with the first annual declaration and billing starting in 2023.
The Committee also received an update on the 2022 Municipal Elections, including a recommendation to offer a special mail-in ballot for the October 2022 election, as well as for any by-elections that might occur during the 2022-2026 term of Council. In light of the possibility that the pandemic may still be an issue, this process will allow electors the opportunity to vote without having to attend a voting place in-person. Voting day is Monday, October 24.
Recommendations from today’s meeting will rise to Council on Wednesday, March 9.
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February 23, 2022
Council approves further actions to support downtown residents and businesses
Ottawa – Today, Council passed several motions to support downtown residents and businesses affected by the demonstration. They included:
Council approved a transfer of land at 3380 Jockvale Road to the Ottawa Community Housing Corporation to build affordable housing. The City has already declared the lands surplus and the housing corporation has secured funding to build 32 modular housing units, including seven accessible units, geared to families experiencing or at risk of homelessness, with the potential for another 25 units in a second phase.
Council also heard that Paul Hutt is the successful candidate and the new permanent Chief of Ottawa Fire Services. Chief Hutt brings more than 28 years of experience and a record of success in emergency management and fire service and had been acting Fire Chief.
Council also declared Tuesday, March 8 as International Women’s Day in Ottawa.
Council approves further actions to support downtown residents and businesses
Ottawa – Today, Council passed several motions to support downtown residents and businesses affected by the demonstration. They included:
- Exploring deferral of interim 2022 property taxes for affected businesses in areas impacted by the demonstration.
- Providing a total of $450,000 to affected Business Improvement Areas, Business Associations and the Ottawa Markets Corporation to support business resumption, encourage customer visitation, and highlight main street vibrancy.
- Approving a funding contribution of $50,000 to the Ottawa Music Industry Coalition to deliver an expanded City Sounds outdoor concert series in 2022 to support ongoing economic recovery in the areas impacted by the demonstration.
- Expanding no-charge transit to include service on O-Train Line 1 as of Friday, February 25 and continuing until 30 days after the City’s State of Emergency ends.
- Approving free parking at City-owned lots at 210 Gloucester Street, 234-250 Slater Street, 422 Slater Street, 70 Clarence Street, 142 Clarence Street and 110 Laurier Avenue West. The free parking would be in effect from Friday, February 25 through Thursday, March 31.
- Requesting the provincial government match the federal government’s business relief program funding to cover fixed costs and sales shortfalls during the demonstration and urging both levels of government to cover lost income of employees during this period.
- Studying the feasibility and cost of implementing a temporary closure of Wellington Street between Bank and Elgin streets until the end of 2022 and discussing with the federal government the possibility of closing Wellington Street permanently to all vehicles except public transit and active transportation and transferring the street to federal ownership. Wellington Street will remain closed to vehicular traffic until the temporary closure study is considered at the Transportation Committee at the beginning of the next term of Council. Staff will also review the potential to close O’Connor and Metcalfe streets, north of Queen Street, to vehicular traffic.
- Declaring Monday, March 14 as a second Valentine's Day in Ottawa to promote downtown businesses.
Council approved a transfer of land at 3380 Jockvale Road to the Ottawa Community Housing Corporation to build affordable housing. The City has already declared the lands surplus and the housing corporation has secured funding to build 32 modular housing units, including seven accessible units, geared to families experiencing or at risk of homelessness, with the potential for another 25 units in a second phase.
Council also heard that Paul Hutt is the successful candidate and the new permanent Chief of Ottawa Fire Services. Chief Hutt brings more than 28 years of experience and a record of success in emergency management and fire service and had been acting Fire Chief.
Council also declared Tuesday, March 8 as International Women’s Day in Ottawa.
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February 22, 2022
Audit Committee receives the Auditor General’s audit of zero-emission buses
The Audit Committee today received the first report for the audit of OC Transpo’s zero-emission buses, which is being conducted over several phases. Today’s report focused on technology and performance, and Management agreed with all five of the Auditor’s recommendations.
The Auditor General confirmed that a thorough technical evaluation exercise was conducted as part of the procurement for the first four pilot buses, where the performance requirements defined for the buses are aligned to key variables and parameters of industry research and a sample of municipalities undergoing their own electric bus transformations. As the pilot continues, OC Transpo agrees with the recommendations around developing thorough control engineering tests, formalizing a performance measurement framework, refining the pilot schedule and tracking delays and risks. These recommendations will help the City build on its rigorous approach for the next procurement phase to ensure its modernized electric fleet meets the needs of residents.
The Audit Committee received the Auditor General’s report on the fraud and waste hotline. Of the 301 unique reports received in 2021, 31 of them were deemed to be substantiated. Investigations resulted in one employee being terminated, three resignations and 13 employees being suspended without pay.
The committee also received a report on the Audit of Ottawa Community Housing’s Development and Renewal Plan.
These reports will rise to City Council on Wednesday, March 9.
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February 22, 2022
Audit Committee receives the Auditor General’s audit of zero-emission buses
The Audit Committee today received the first report for the audit of OC Transpo’s zero-emission buses, which is being conducted over several phases. Today’s report focused on technology and performance, and Management agreed with all five of the Auditor’s recommendations.
The Auditor General confirmed that a thorough technical evaluation exercise was conducted as part of the procurement for the first four pilot buses, where the performance requirements defined for the buses are aligned to key variables and parameters of industry research and a sample of municipalities undergoing their own electric bus transformations. As the pilot continues, OC Transpo agrees with the recommendations around developing thorough control engineering tests, formalizing a performance measurement framework, refining the pilot schedule and tracking delays and risks. These recommendations will help the City build on its rigorous approach for the next procurement phase to ensure its modernized electric fleet meets the needs of residents.
The Audit Committee received the Auditor General’s report on the fraud and waste hotline. Of the 301 unique reports received in 2021, 31 of them were deemed to be substantiated. Investigations resulted in one employee being terminated, three resignations and 13 employees being suspended without pay.
The committee also received a report on the Audit of Ottawa Community Housing’s Development and Renewal Plan.
These reports will rise to City Council on Wednesday, March 9.
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February 17, 2022
Council takes further action in response to the ongoing demonstration
Ottawa – At yesterday’s special Council meeting, several motions were passed in continued reaction to the ongoing demonstration in Ottawa. Watch the meeting at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCpkA_3_gpU
The motions included Council approving:
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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Council takes further action in response to the ongoing demonstration
Ottawa – At yesterday’s special Council meeting, several motions were passed in continued reaction to the ongoing demonstration in Ottawa. Watch the meeting at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCpkA_3_gpU
The motions included Council approving:
- That, effective immediately, Councillor Eli El-Chantiry be appointed to the Ottawa Police Services Board, replacing Councillor Diane Deans, resident Suzanne Valiquet be added to the Board, replacing member Sandy Smallwood, who resigned. Councillor Jeff Leiper will replace Councillor King, who also resigned. Councillor Carol Anne Meehan also resigned from the board. The board is requested to meet before 1 pm on Thursday, February 17 to choose a new Chair and Vice-chair.
- That the City Clerk is to canvas Members of Council wishing to serve on the Ottawa Police Services Board for the remainder of the term, including on consultation work to hire a new Chief of Police and on a review of the actions of both the Ottawa Police Service and the board related to the truck convoy demonstration. The Clerk is to bring forward the results of this circulation as soon as practicable following the end of the current State of Emergency.
- That Mayor Watson issue a formal apology on behalf of City Council to all Ottawa residents, and in particular those in the downtown core, for failing to provide safety and security.
- That the City condemns the presence of truck convoy demonstrators in or near school zones.
- OC Transpo to provide no-charge transit service to residents and workers in the affected areas beginning on Sunday, February 20 and lasting 30 days after the City lifts its State of Emergency. OC Transpo will collect no fares as customers board buses at any stops on routes 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 55, 56, 85 and 114 – except that fares will be required at pedestrian entrances to Greenboro, Hurdman and Tunney’s Pasture stations. Payment will be required for transfers beyond these routes. No fares will be collected for Para Transpo trips booked to or from addresses in Somerset and Rideau-Vanier wards. The cost of no-charge transit would be funded by the transit operating reserve while the City seeks additional compensation from other levels of government.
- Mayor Watson to write to the Province asking that individuals not qualify for the Ontario Staycation Tax credit if qualifying expenses were spent to participate in the illegal occupation.
- Support for deployment of the full array of tools recently made available to bring unlawful behaviour to an end, including towing illegally parked vehicles, setting deadlines for compliance, dismantling illegal structures and fires, enforcing the terms of the injunction granted to the City and coordinating greater crowd control and dispersal measures.
- That staff work with affected Councillors to close any roads as needed to diminish the number of vehicles able to access the downtown core on Saturday, February 19 and Sunday, February 20. Staff would review such requests with the Ottawa Police Service to ensure they can be accommodated.
- The City's Anti-Racism Secretariat to work with the community-led Anti-Racism Advisory Table to consider developing a campaign to raise awareness about the negative impacts of racism, anti-Semitism and xenophobia.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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February 9, 2022
Council approves plan to improve road safety for all users
Ottawa – Council today approved a plan to implement citywide road safety measures in 2022, building on projects completed in 2021. The City increased its investment in the safety of road users in the 2022 budget, spending $44.3 million this year compared to $37.1 million in 2021. Of those total investments towards road safety initiatives and programs, $7.2 million will fund measures identified in the Road Safety Action Plan.
The City would continue ongoing projects and begin new initiatives that focus on vulnerable road users, rural skewed intersections, high cycling volume intersections and high-risk behaviour among drivers. Road users would see more pedestrian crossovers and automated speed cameras near schools, safety enhancements for cycling infrastructure, and new protected left turn signals. The City would continue to develop a motorcycle safety strategy and to do outreach to educate and inform residents about road safety.
Council also passed a motion to cancel all committee meetings until Friday, February 18 due to the current demonstrations in Ottawa. There would be one exception as the Planning Committee would still meet on Thursday, February 10 to consider one item: the site plan control application for 930 Carling Avenue, 850 Carling Avenue and 520 Preston Street.
In recognition of his generosity and engagement with Ottawa, Council named a street after Canadian actor and philanthropist Ryan Reynolds. Ryan Reynolds Way will be located in a new subdivision being built at the corner of Mer Bleue Road and Brian Coburn Boulevard.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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Council approves plan to improve road safety for all users
Ottawa – Council today approved a plan to implement citywide road safety measures in 2022, building on projects completed in 2021. The City increased its investment in the safety of road users in the 2022 budget, spending $44.3 million this year compared to $37.1 million in 2021. Of those total investments towards road safety initiatives and programs, $7.2 million will fund measures identified in the Road Safety Action Plan.
The City would continue ongoing projects and begin new initiatives that focus on vulnerable road users, rural skewed intersections, high cycling volume intersections and high-risk behaviour among drivers. Road users would see more pedestrian crossovers and automated speed cameras near schools, safety enhancements for cycling infrastructure, and new protected left turn signals. The City would continue to develop a motorcycle safety strategy and to do outreach to educate and inform residents about road safety.
Council also passed a motion to cancel all committee meetings until Friday, February 18 due to the current demonstrations in Ottawa. There would be one exception as the Planning Committee would still meet on Thursday, February 10 to consider one item: the site plan control application for 930 Carling Avenue, 850 Carling Avenue and 520 Preston Street.
In recognition of his generosity and engagement with Ottawa, Council named a street after Canadian actor and philanthropist Ryan Reynolds. Ryan Reynolds Way will be located in a new subdivision being built at the corner of Mer Bleue Road and Brian Coburn Boulevard.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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February 7, 2022
Council condemns demonstration and asks for additional support
Ottawa – At today’s special Council meeting, several motions were passed to deal with the ongoing demonstration in Ottawa. They included:
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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Council condemns demonstration and asks for additional support
Ottawa – At today’s special Council meeting, several motions were passed to deal with the ongoing demonstration in Ottawa. They included:
- Calling on both the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada to provide all necessary financial and logistical supports required to bring the protest to a peaceful end and allow the City of Ottawa to return to normal.
- Condemning the racism, antisemitism and discrimination respectively experienced by the Black, Jewish, Muslim, racialized and members of the two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex (2SLGBTQI+) communities.
- Requiring staff to advise Council on the status of enforcement activities related to the demonstration, including number of vehicles towed, and numbers and nature of tickets issued.
- Removing vehicles illegally parked in residential areas and addressing ongoing impacts of continued by-law violations by these individuals.
- Petitioning the federal government to assume responsibility for public safety and security within the Parliamentary Precinct and to commit to an increased level of support of the Ottawa Police Service.
- Asking for an independent evaluation of the response to the demonstration.
- Requesting both the provincial and federal governments fund supports for Ottawa businesses, employees and community social support agencies impacted by the protest.
- Seeking increases to noise, idling, use and care of roads and open-air fire by-law set fines to $1,000.
- Amending the existing idling by-law to allow idling in occupied vehicles only when the temperature outside is less than -15 C including the windchill within the protest area.
- Holding daily media availabilities for the duration of the truck convoy demonstrations.
- Seeking permission from the Province to recover demonstration-related policing costs from any persons deemed responsible for such costs.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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February 2, 2022
Committee approves plan to improve safety for all road users
Ottawa – The City’s Transportation Committee today approved a plan to implement citywide road safety measures in 2022, building on projects completed in 2021. The City increased its investment in the safety of road users in the 2022 budget, spending $44.3 million this year compared to $37.1 million in 2021. Of those total investments towards road safety initiatives and programs, $7.2 million will fund measures identified in the Road Safety Action Plan. The City would continue ongoing projects and begin new initiatives that focus on vulnerable road users, rural skewed intersections, high cycling volume intersections and high-risk behaviour among drivers. Road users would see more pedestrian crossovers and automated speed cameras near schools, safety enhancements for cycling infrastructure, and new protected left turn signals. The City would continue to develop a motorcycle safety strategy and to do outreach to educate and inform residents about road safety.
The Committee approved a Statement of Work for a study to review options for a multi-use pathway crossing to connect the Tremblay LRT Station to the Trainyards retail area, offices and a future mixed-use redevelopment. This project is part of planned transit-oriented development for the LRT station.
Recommendations from today’s meeting requiring Council approval will rise to Council on Wednesday, February 9
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February 1, 2022
Committee approves surplus land transfer for affordable housing Ottawa – The City’s Finance and Economic Development Committee today approved the transfer of land at 3380 Jockvale Road to the Ottawa Community Housing Corporation (OCHC) to build affordable housing.
The City has already declared the lands surplus and OCHC has secured funding to build 32 housing units geared to families experiencing or at risk of homelessness, with the potential for another 25 units in a second phase.
The Committee approved transferring $1 million currently allocated for professional services to create nine positions within the City’s Information Technology Services branch to manage digital demands. The change will enable the branch to deliver the same services at a lower cost.
The Committee also recommended Council endorse measures proposed by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario for the Province to enact reforms on the issue of joint and several liability. The proposed measures would lessen potential burden on municipalities in cases of joint and several liability, where a city can end up paying more than its fair share when named in litigation with multiple defendants.
Recommendations from today’s meeting will rise to Council on Wednesday, February 9.
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Committee approves plan to improve safety for all road users
Ottawa – The City’s Transportation Committee today approved a plan to implement citywide road safety measures in 2022, building on projects completed in 2021. The City increased its investment in the safety of road users in the 2022 budget, spending $44.3 million this year compared to $37.1 million in 2021. Of those total investments towards road safety initiatives and programs, $7.2 million will fund measures identified in the Road Safety Action Plan. The City would continue ongoing projects and begin new initiatives that focus on vulnerable road users, rural skewed intersections, high cycling volume intersections and high-risk behaviour among drivers. Road users would see more pedestrian crossovers and automated speed cameras near schools, safety enhancements for cycling infrastructure, and new protected left turn signals. The City would continue to develop a motorcycle safety strategy and to do outreach to educate and inform residents about road safety.
The Committee approved a Statement of Work for a study to review options for a multi-use pathway crossing to connect the Tremblay LRT Station to the Trainyards retail area, offices and a future mixed-use redevelopment. This project is part of planned transit-oriented development for the LRT station.
Recommendations from today’s meeting requiring Council approval will rise to Council on Wednesday, February 9
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February 1, 2022
Committee approves surplus land transfer for affordable housing Ottawa – The City’s Finance and Economic Development Committee today approved the transfer of land at 3380 Jockvale Road to the Ottawa Community Housing Corporation (OCHC) to build affordable housing.
The City has already declared the lands surplus and OCHC has secured funding to build 32 housing units geared to families experiencing or at risk of homelessness, with the potential for another 25 units in a second phase.
The Committee approved transferring $1 million currently allocated for professional services to create nine positions within the City’s Information Technology Services branch to manage digital demands. The change will enable the branch to deliver the same services at a lower cost.
The Committee also recommended Council endorse measures proposed by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario for the Province to enact reforms on the issue of joint and several liability. The proposed measures would lessen potential burden on municipalities in cases of joint and several liability, where a city can end up paying more than its fair share when named in litigation with multiple defendants.
Recommendations from today’s meeting will rise to Council on Wednesday, February 9.
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Committees approve first brand-new Official Plan since Amalgamation
Ottawa – The City’s Planning Committee and Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee today approved a new Official Plan at a joint meeting, setting the stage for Ottawa to become a global city with a population of two million people by the end of the century. If Council approves, it will mark the first time since amalgamation in 2003 that Ottawa has had a brand-new Official Plan – the city’s most comprehensive planning document.
The new Official Plan will guide growth and redevelopment for the next 25 years. It is framed around five big policy changes that, together, move Ottawa towards being the most livable city in North America.
The new Official Plan also introduces a framework of six areas, referred to as transects. Policies related to the transect model would define a development based on where it is located – the rural area, suburban area, Greenbelt, outer urban area, inner urban area and downtown core. The aim is to ensure that the height, density and massing of a development fit the context of the areas where they are being built.
The new Official Plan includes policies to help expand the number of 15-minute neighbourhoods – communities where people can live without a car because daily needs are within a 15-minute walk of home. Those policies set the conditions for a diverse mix of housing, services, schools, greenspaces and daycares in both new and established communities.
Ottawa would become a city of connected, inclusive and walkable communities, with greater density of housing, employment and services around rapid-transit hubs and along transit corridors. Policies further encourage new small, local-serving businesses and services throughout Ottawa’s rural villages and the city’s urban area.
Recommendations from today’s meeting will rise to Council on Wednesday, October 27.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca or call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401). You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Committees approve first brand-new Official Plan since Amalgamation
Ottawa – The City’s Planning Committee and Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee today approved a new Official Plan at a joint meeting, setting the stage for Ottawa to become a global city with a population of two million people by the end of the century. If Council approves, it will mark the first time since amalgamation in 2003 that Ottawa has had a brand-new Official Plan – the city’s most comprehensive planning document.
The new Official Plan will guide growth and redevelopment for the next 25 years. It is framed around five big policy changes that, together, move Ottawa towards being the most livable city in North America.
- Growth – encouraging more growth through intensification than through new development in undeveloped areas would help accommodate projected population increases in Ottawa’s existing neighbourhoods. The new plan also introduces policy tools to require more housing affordability.
- Mobility – promoting more use of sustainable transportation than private vehicles would make Ottawa a city of proximity, where residents have easy access to the things they need. The new Official Plan also includes polices to encourage complete streets that offer a vibrant and safe public realm for all road users.
- Urban Design – creating policies for well-designed sites will ensure intensification is done sensitively, in a way that benefits the streets and communities involved. The new Official Plan also promotes sustainable design to create a resilient and climate-adapted city.
- Resiliency – bringing environment, climate and health considerations to the forefront of planning will ensure the new Official Plan recognizes the climate crisis and our urgent need to reduce, and eventually eliminate, carbon emissions.
- Economy – establishing a strong relationship between land use and economic development will set the stage for businesses and entrepreneurs to succeed.
The new Official Plan also introduces a framework of six areas, referred to as transects. Policies related to the transect model would define a development based on where it is located – the rural area, suburban area, Greenbelt, outer urban area, inner urban area and downtown core. The aim is to ensure that the height, density and massing of a development fit the context of the areas where they are being built.
The new Official Plan includes policies to help expand the number of 15-minute neighbourhoods – communities where people can live without a car because daily needs are within a 15-minute walk of home. Those policies set the conditions for a diverse mix of housing, services, schools, greenspaces and daycares in both new and established communities.
Ottawa would become a city of connected, inclusive and walkable communities, with greater density of housing, employment and services around rapid-transit hubs and along transit corridors. Policies further encourage new small, local-serving businesses and services throughout Ottawa’s rural villages and the city’s urban area.
Recommendations from today’s meeting will rise to Council on Wednesday, October 27.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca or call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401). You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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Committee receives construction update on Stage 2 LRT
Ottawa – The City’s Finance and Economic Development Committee received an update Dec 17th on the three extensions of the Stage 2 LRT project, to the east, west and south. In the south, work is progressing at the Walkley Maintenance and Storage Facility and on multiple bridges, with girder installation underway at the Ellwood Diamond and Hunt Club rail bridges. Station construction has begun at all sites to the south. The first Stadler vehicle has been delivered and assembly is underway. Remaining vehicles will arrive in 2022.
In the east, Highway 174 roadwork is underway, and utilities are being relocated to make way within the centre median for LRT infrastructure. Construction has started on four of the five planned LRT stations. Construction of the East Rail Flyover bridge and Montréal Station bridge has been completed.
In the west, work continues at the Moodie Light Maintenance and Storage Facility, as well as at Queensview, Iris and Lincoln Fields stations, and along Byron Linear Park. Work is progressing at the slurry plant at Rochester Field and the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway. Cut-and-cover tunnel construction is underway on the Byron Linear Park Tunnel and the Parkway Tunnel, which will run between Kìchì Sìbì and Lincoln Fields stations travelling under the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway.
The Committee received an updated schedule outlining the anticipated substantial completion dates for the three extensions. The COVID-19 pandemic has had impacts on major construction projects across Ontario, and City staff are closely monitoring construction schedules and any anticipated delays as a result. The Committee was informed that the O-Train South extension is now anticipated to open in spring 2023, as a result of contractor delays, which pushes out the original schedule of summer 2022. The O-Train East Extension is tracking toward its anticipated completion date in 2024. The O-Train West Extension has some pressure on its scheduled completion date of 2025, but the City and contractor are working together to resolve the critical timelines.
The Committee also approved the acquisition of 3101 Albion Road from the Canadian Pacific Railway, for possible future expansion of the Walkley Maintenance and Storage Facility. The Committee also delegated authority to the director of the rail construction program to negotiate and carry out both station construction and operating agreements for the Airport Link with the Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport Authority.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Ottawa – The City’s Finance and Economic Development Committee received an update Dec 17th on the three extensions of the Stage 2 LRT project, to the east, west and south. In the south, work is progressing at the Walkley Maintenance and Storage Facility and on multiple bridges, with girder installation underway at the Ellwood Diamond and Hunt Club rail bridges. Station construction has begun at all sites to the south. The first Stadler vehicle has been delivered and assembly is underway. Remaining vehicles will arrive in 2022.
In the east, Highway 174 roadwork is underway, and utilities are being relocated to make way within the centre median for LRT infrastructure. Construction has started on four of the five planned LRT stations. Construction of the East Rail Flyover bridge and Montréal Station bridge has been completed.
In the west, work continues at the Moodie Light Maintenance and Storage Facility, as well as at Queensview, Iris and Lincoln Fields stations, and along Byron Linear Park. Work is progressing at the slurry plant at Rochester Field and the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway. Cut-and-cover tunnel construction is underway on the Byron Linear Park Tunnel and the Parkway Tunnel, which will run between Kìchì Sìbì and Lincoln Fields stations travelling under the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway.
The Committee received an updated schedule outlining the anticipated substantial completion dates for the three extensions. The COVID-19 pandemic has had impacts on major construction projects across Ontario, and City staff are closely monitoring construction schedules and any anticipated delays as a result. The Committee was informed that the O-Train South extension is now anticipated to open in spring 2023, as a result of contractor delays, which pushes out the original schedule of summer 2022. The O-Train East Extension is tracking toward its anticipated completion date in 2024. The O-Train West Extension has some pressure on its scheduled completion date of 2025, but the City and contractor are working together to resolve the critical timelines.
The Committee also approved the acquisition of 3101 Albion Road from the Canadian Pacific Railway, for possible future expansion of the Walkley Maintenance and Storage Facility. The Committee also delegated authority to the director of the rail construction program to negotiate and carry out both station construction and operating agreements for the Airport Link with the Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport Authority.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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For immediate release:
December 8, 2021
Council approves the City’s 2022 budget, with focus on affordability
Ottawa – Council approved the City’s 2022 budget today, ensuring the City can continue to deliver essential services while still advancing Council priorities, including affordable housing, support for social services, affordability for small businesses and the health and safety of residents.
The budget will help keep Ottawa affordable by capping the overall municipal tax increase at three per cent, valued at an estimated $56.1 million. This means the average urban homeowner will pay an additional $119 per year while the average rural homeowner will pay an additional $91 per year.
The budget includes $427.3 million in capital funding to improve roads, bridges, culverts, sidewalks, pathways and intersections. It provides $194 million for the integrated program, which includes $76 million for road resurfacing. The program also includes $118 million for integrated projects that reduce costs by coordinating underground infrastructure work with reconstruction of roads, sidewalks and pathways. Another $62 million will fund major road construction projects while $13.4 million will enhance active transportation through programs like the Cycling and Pedestrian Facilities Programs.
The City will invest $17 million to develop more affordable and supportive housing, which includes $15 million in capital and $2 million in development charge exemptions for residents in greatest need. That investment builds on commitments in the previous three budgets totalling $51 million in this Term of Council. An additional $1 million in City funding will help local landlords make essential repairs and further increase the supply of affordable rental units in Ottawa.
The City has earmarked $27 million in Community Funding to non-profit social services agencies. With this largest increase to the Community Funding Framework since 2006, the funding demonstrates the City’s commitment to sustaining a strong social services sector to support communities that are most marginalized in Ottawa. The cost of the EquiPass for low-income residents and the Community Pass for Ontario Disability Support Program recipients will also remain frozen at 2018 rates.
Council allocated $2.1 million from the Ottawa Police Service budget to support racialized youth program solutions, community-based, culturally appropriate mental health prevention services, addictions and crisis outreach services, and culturally safe mental health programs, services, crisis and social supports for our Indigenous community. It also directed up to $550,000 to develop an alternative call referral program identifying how and to whom low-risk, low-acuity 911 calls should be redirected.
Council allocated $435,000 from the Ottawa Police Service budget to fund a mental health strategy for the ByWard Market and Lowertown areas. The initiative is a partnership between local stakeholders, service providers and City representatives.
A proposed 2.5 per cent general fare increase for OC Transpo will only come into effect one full month after 15 trains are made available by Rideau Transit Group (RTG) for revenue service on O-Train Line 1. Once available, the number of trains in use to meet customer demand will be at the discretion of the General Manager of Transit Services. OC Transpo is also providing up to 2,000 no-charge transit passes to emergency shelters for the use of shelter clients.
The budget commits to greater affordability for local small businesses as well. The City has implemented a 15-per-cent tax discount for small businesses on qualifying properties. The full discount will be phased in over two years starting with a 7.5-per-cent reduction in 2022, benefiting about 10,000 small businesses.
Council received three new audits, examining the City’s grants and contributions program, benefits processing for long-term disability and the competitive procurement process. In all cases, the City agreed with recommendations from the Office of the Auditor General. Council also approved the Auditor General’s 2022-2023 workplan.
Council approved a zoning amendment on the creation and placement of outdoor commercial patios and retail pop-up spaces on private property. The amendment eliminates the minimum separation required between a patio and a residential zone, offering more flexibility for potential patio operators. While the City introduced these measures on a temporary basis in 2020, the amendment approved today will make those changes permanent.
Council also approved a new secondary plan to clarify the types of development permitted on or adjacent to Bank Street, between the Rideau Canal and Highway 417. The Bank Street in the Glebe Secondary Plan would make future growth in the area more predictable and ensure intensification happens in ways that protect the Glebe’s heritage character and build on the community’s pedestrian-oriented nature.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
December 8, 2021
Council approves the City’s 2022 budget, with focus on affordability
Ottawa – Council approved the City’s 2022 budget today, ensuring the City can continue to deliver essential services while still advancing Council priorities, including affordable housing, support for social services, affordability for small businesses and the health and safety of residents.
The budget will help keep Ottawa affordable by capping the overall municipal tax increase at three per cent, valued at an estimated $56.1 million. This means the average urban homeowner will pay an additional $119 per year while the average rural homeowner will pay an additional $91 per year.
The budget includes $427.3 million in capital funding to improve roads, bridges, culverts, sidewalks, pathways and intersections. It provides $194 million for the integrated program, which includes $76 million for road resurfacing. The program also includes $118 million for integrated projects that reduce costs by coordinating underground infrastructure work with reconstruction of roads, sidewalks and pathways. Another $62 million will fund major road construction projects while $13.4 million will enhance active transportation through programs like the Cycling and Pedestrian Facilities Programs.
The City will invest $17 million to develop more affordable and supportive housing, which includes $15 million in capital and $2 million in development charge exemptions for residents in greatest need. That investment builds on commitments in the previous three budgets totalling $51 million in this Term of Council. An additional $1 million in City funding will help local landlords make essential repairs and further increase the supply of affordable rental units in Ottawa.
The City has earmarked $27 million in Community Funding to non-profit social services agencies. With this largest increase to the Community Funding Framework since 2006, the funding demonstrates the City’s commitment to sustaining a strong social services sector to support communities that are most marginalized in Ottawa. The cost of the EquiPass for low-income residents and the Community Pass for Ontario Disability Support Program recipients will also remain frozen at 2018 rates.
Council allocated $2.1 million from the Ottawa Police Service budget to support racialized youth program solutions, community-based, culturally appropriate mental health prevention services, addictions and crisis outreach services, and culturally safe mental health programs, services, crisis and social supports for our Indigenous community. It also directed up to $550,000 to develop an alternative call referral program identifying how and to whom low-risk, low-acuity 911 calls should be redirected.
Council allocated $435,000 from the Ottawa Police Service budget to fund a mental health strategy for the ByWard Market and Lowertown areas. The initiative is a partnership between local stakeholders, service providers and City representatives.
A proposed 2.5 per cent general fare increase for OC Transpo will only come into effect one full month after 15 trains are made available by Rideau Transit Group (RTG) for revenue service on O-Train Line 1. Once available, the number of trains in use to meet customer demand will be at the discretion of the General Manager of Transit Services. OC Transpo is also providing up to 2,000 no-charge transit passes to emergency shelters for the use of shelter clients.
The budget commits to greater affordability for local small businesses as well. The City has implemented a 15-per-cent tax discount for small businesses on qualifying properties. The full discount will be phased in over two years starting with a 7.5-per-cent reduction in 2022, benefiting about 10,000 small businesses.
Council received three new audits, examining the City’s grants and contributions program, benefits processing for long-term disability and the competitive procurement process. In all cases, the City agreed with recommendations from the Office of the Auditor General. Council also approved the Auditor General’s 2022-2023 workplan.
Council approved a zoning amendment on the creation and placement of outdoor commercial patios and retail pop-up spaces on private property. The amendment eliminates the minimum separation required between a patio and a residential zone, offering more flexibility for potential patio operators. While the City introduced these measures on a temporary basis in 2020, the amendment approved today will make those changes permanent.
Council also approved a new secondary plan to clarify the types of development permitted on or adjacent to Bank Street, between the Rideau Canal and Highway 417. The Bank Street in the Glebe Secondary Plan would make future growth in the area more predictable and ensure intensification happens in ways that protect the Glebe’s heritage character and build on the community’s pedestrian-oriented nature.
For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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For immediate release:
September 7, 2021
Committee united on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Ottawa – The Finance and Economic Development Committee today moved to have the City observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation starting in 2021.
The federal government established the new federal holiday earlier this year to honour First Nations, Inuit and Métis Survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of their history and the legacy of residential schools remains a vital part of the reconciliation process. It is to be observed each year on September 30. Mayor Jim Watson would make an official proclamation marking the day, and, at sunset, the Heritage Building and Marion Dewar Plaza at City Hall and the OTTAWA sign in the ByWard Market would be illuminated orange to recognize the impact the residential school system has had on Indigenous communities.
City employees would be entitled to a holiday with pay, and service levels that day would be adjusted. Administrative buildings and Client Service Centres would be closed, while OC Transpo services may operate on a reduced schedule. Recreation and cultural facilities would be open, and recycling and garbage collection would operate on normal schedules. Council will consider this report on Wednesday, September 8.
The City is anticipating an overall year-end surplus of $8.1 million in 2021, including a projected surplus of $6.1 million for tax-supported programs and $2.1 million for rate-supported services, like water and sewer. The Committee received a status update on the 2021 budget, which includes projections to the end of the year. The City ended the second quarter with an overall surplus of $13.4 million, including a surplus of $12.5 million for tax-supported programs and $865,000 for rate-supported services.
The projected year-end surplus includes $136 million in COVID-19 costs, offset by $135.2 million in funding from senior levels of government. The Province will cover the forecasted $11.8 million in costs for the City’s portion of its vaccination program.
The Committee received a progress update on the City’s Corporate Diversity and Inclusion Plan, which aims to build a workforce that reflects the community it serves and provide an inclusive work culture. This approach seeks to promote public confidence and ensure that a diversity of minds, experiences and perspectives are shaping the City’s stakeholder engagement, operations and services.
The plan includes an equitable hiring strategy, increased community engagement, new learning initiatives and better data-collection tools. By 2024, the City aims to achieve targets for workforce representation of employment equity groups based on Canada’s 2018 regional workforce availability rates. Since 2019, City workforce representation has gone up for Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, and persons with disabilities.
The Committee approved an agreement with Waste Management for their planned landfill site at the West Carleton Environmental Centre on Carp Road. To compensate neighbouring communities for the burden of hosting an active landfill, the agreement would reduce the landfill’s service area and require Waste Management to collect fees per metric tonne of waste deposited each year at the site – fees that would be used to benefit the neighbouring communities. Staff would report back in the first quarter of 2022 with recommendations on how the collected fees might be used.
Recommendations from today’s meeting will rise to Council on Wednesday, September 22, unless otherwise indicated.
September 7, 2021
Committee united on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Ottawa – The Finance and Economic Development Committee today moved to have the City observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation starting in 2021.
The federal government established the new federal holiday earlier this year to honour First Nations, Inuit and Métis Survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of their history and the legacy of residential schools remains a vital part of the reconciliation process. It is to be observed each year on September 30. Mayor Jim Watson would make an official proclamation marking the day, and, at sunset, the Heritage Building and Marion Dewar Plaza at City Hall and the OTTAWA sign in the ByWard Market would be illuminated orange to recognize the impact the residential school system has had on Indigenous communities.
City employees would be entitled to a holiday with pay, and service levels that day would be adjusted. Administrative buildings and Client Service Centres would be closed, while OC Transpo services may operate on a reduced schedule. Recreation and cultural facilities would be open, and recycling and garbage collection would operate on normal schedules. Council will consider this report on Wednesday, September 8.
The City is anticipating an overall year-end surplus of $8.1 million in 2021, including a projected surplus of $6.1 million for tax-supported programs and $2.1 million for rate-supported services, like water and sewer. The Committee received a status update on the 2021 budget, which includes projections to the end of the year. The City ended the second quarter with an overall surplus of $13.4 million, including a surplus of $12.5 million for tax-supported programs and $865,000 for rate-supported services.
The projected year-end surplus includes $136 million in COVID-19 costs, offset by $135.2 million in funding from senior levels of government. The Province will cover the forecasted $11.8 million in costs for the City’s portion of its vaccination program.
The Committee received a progress update on the City’s Corporate Diversity and Inclusion Plan, which aims to build a workforce that reflects the community it serves and provide an inclusive work culture. This approach seeks to promote public confidence and ensure that a diversity of minds, experiences and perspectives are shaping the City’s stakeholder engagement, operations and services.
The plan includes an equitable hiring strategy, increased community engagement, new learning initiatives and better data-collection tools. By 2024, the City aims to achieve targets for workforce representation of employment equity groups based on Canada’s 2018 regional workforce availability rates. Since 2019, City workforce representation has gone up for Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, and persons with disabilities.
The Committee approved an agreement with Waste Management for their planned landfill site at the West Carleton Environmental Centre on Carp Road. To compensate neighbouring communities for the burden of hosting an active landfill, the agreement would reduce the landfill’s service area and require Waste Management to collect fees per metric tonne of waste deposited each year at the site – fees that would be used to benefit the neighbouring communities. Staff would report back in the first quarter of 2022 with recommendations on how the collected fees might be used.
Recommendations from today’s meeting will rise to Council on Wednesday, September 22, unless otherwise indicated.