Better Ottawa

With the approval of the 2026 city budget, we are unofficially into campaign mode for the 2026 municipal elections.This week the Municipal Panel covers:* Council approves the 2026 budget* Tim Tierney’s Ottawa Citizen op-ed criticizing other councillors* The Mayor’s public safety message* The Mayor’s breakfast with Prime Minister Mark Carney* The election messaging that is starting to emergeLet us know what you think. Leave a comment here or wherever you get your podcasts.You can also watch the podcast on YouTube.Or listen to an audio version on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit the613.substack.com/subscribe

Budget season in Ottawa is heating up with a hefty $156 million boost for new and ongoing LRT construction. Delays at the Adisoke library have raised eyebrows about potential deeper issues. The panel discusses the political implications of a long-term financial plan set for 2026 and various funding strategies for infrastructure, including tax hikes and facility sales. They also tackle the controversial $1 million for private security in ByWard Market and the risks it poses for community displacement. A must-listen for local governance enthusiasts!

City budget discussions are heating up, with debates on a proposed landfill purchase and its implications for waste management strategies. The transit budget faces scrutiny as phantom funding raises concerns about fiscal transparency. Youth fare initiatives and proposed fare increases spark lively debates on public transport service expectations. Additionally, the potential impact of provincial legislation on cycling infrastructure is explored, challenging the city's ability to assert its autonomy against provincial policies.

A deep dive into the surprising realities of police budget increases reveals a hidden jump of 8.7% instead of the advertised 5%. The panel debates the controversial opportunity to acquire a new landfill site, weighing environmental impacts against incineration. Local lobbying dynamics and political ambitions come to light, sparking discussions about the future of municipal governance. Listeners are left contemplating the strategic significance of these developments amid concerns over transparency and community effects.

The latest discussions dive into the draft 2026 budget, highlighting intriguing tax implications and the impact of strong-mayor powers. The hosts also tackle whether provincial funding is the reason behind lower tax hikes compared to other cities. Analyzing proposed efficiency savings raises eyebrows about credibility. They debate new voluntary contributions' risks and explore the controversial decision against urban boundary expansion. Plus, population projections pose challenges for future infrastructure planning, keeping listeners engaged throughout!

The panel discusses the recent City Council approval of Lansdowne 2.0, reflecting on the long six-hour meeting that revealed unexpected votes and political dynamics. They delve into how community sentiment shifted the focus of discussions away from just financials to more emotional concerns. There's a lively debate on whether the city should subsidize professional sports and the implications for the area's viability. The hosts also analyze public skepticism, potential election impacts, and a controversial police ruling that reinforces public expression rights.

The discussion dives into the controversial Lansdowne project and its financing discrepancies. Hosts unpack the public sentiment shift from strong support to skepticism after recent polling. The PWHL's delegation raises concerns over arena capacity and taxpayer-funded expansions. Surprising elements from the Lansdowne proposal spark debate, including housing plans and the need for a third tower. They also address transparency issues, criticism of the Order of Ottawa induction timing, and the upcoming council vote on the project.

The discussion dives into Lansdowne 2.0, exploring whether it's a thrilling vision or a potential misstep. Key insights emerge from the Mayor's unconventional press conference, raising eyebrows about timing and transparency. The hosts question the financial risks for taxpayers and reveal lesser-known details from the report, including tax implications and construction contracts. Concerns arise over stadium utilization and the viability of future events. As they dissect revenue projections and design trade-offs, they emphasize the need for community engagement and oversight.

This discussion dives deep into Tewin, a controversial development project in southeast Ottawa. The panel explores the merits of the planning, debates the potential for it to become a model 15-minute community, and examines the long-term costs of greenfield growth. Tensions rise as they recount a heated committee meeting, revealing political dynamics and public reactions. Plus, the conversation touches on the implications for Lansdowne and community forums that are set to engage citizens. Expect bold ideas and passionate debates!

Tensions rise as Ottawa takes a stand against the Premier's speed camera ban. An in-depth look at the Housing Acceleration Plan reveals a focus on private builders, sparking debate about its impact on non-profit housing. The city also dives into the negotiation principles for uploading the LRT, with potential financial implications. Meanwhile, Lansdowne 2.0 is back on track amidst discussions about provincial funding. This week’s Municipal Panel uncovers crucial local developments shaping the future of Ottawa.