Better Ottawa Muni Panel: Is the City Breaking the Law?
Aug 25, 2025
The panel dives into Ottawa's looming 2026 budget, tackling contentious issues like police funding and community safety. They discuss the surprise discontinuation of lifeguard services at local beaches as summer concludes. A staggering $11 billion deficit raises concerns over aging infrastructure and city's public services. Meanwhile, the Senators' deal for a new stadium sparks excitement and skepticism about future developments. The discussion balances fiscal responsibility with community needs, making for a lively and thought-provoking dialogue.
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Budget Directions Limit Most Spending
- The City's 2026 budget directions tightly cap most spending at about 2.9% but allow policing up to 6.5%.
- Households will face larger effective increases when fees (garbage, water) and fare rises are included.
Draft Directions Usually Become Final
- Budget directions usually determine the final budget and staff reverse-engineer services to fit the target.
- Significant service needs, like rising labour costs and union negotiations, may make a 2.9% target unrealistic.
Alternative Responses Can Reduce Policing Costs
- Many 911 calls don't need police and could be handled cheaper by alternative community response teams.
- Redirecting such calls to outreach/social workers can free police for core policing and lower costs.