Better Ottawa

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.

It was another busy week at Ottawa City Hall! In this episode, we cover:* The Housing Acceleration Plan goes to Committee (0:13)* Should there be bus lanes on Bank Street? (19:07)* NCC plans for a Confederation Boulevard gets a reaction out of the Mayor (30:35)* The Police Chief says a 6.5% budget increase is not enough (40:50)Let 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.And don’t forget … the People’s Summit is back this fall! 🌟One powerful day of bold ideas, proven strategies, and people power to win our city back. Join organizers, advocates, and changemakers for keynotes, panels, municipal boot camps, and community victories worth celebrating. This isn’t just a conference — it’s the launchpad for a people-powered movement.👉 Let’s organize. Let’s build power. Let’s win.🔗 More info & tickets: betterottawa.ca/summit 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

This week, the Municipal Panel dives into the chaotic Return to Office debate, highlighting a council vote that puts the city manager in charge of hybrid work rules. They discuss Doug Ford's controversial plan to ban speed cameras, balancing safety with political maneuvering. The new Housing Acceleration Plan raises eyebrows with its focus on developer interests, while the Kanata ClubLink case reveals legal complexities affecting community expectations. Plus, there's a deep dive into the delays troubling the Lansdowne Report amid provincial funding uncertainties.

The discussion kicks off with the mayor's ambitious pledge to end youth homelessness by 2030, sparking debates on feasibility and community support. Councillor Menard's election spending comes under scrutiny in an ongoing investigation. A contentious return-to-office mandate faces pushback, while Doug Ford critiques speed cameras as a cash grab. The city’s climate report highlights both achievements and challenges. Lowering the headcount at City Hall and a controversial sidewalk reversal in Manor Park round out the lively conversations.

Discover the latest controversies as a city councillor faces reprimand for social media breaches. Explore the implications of the decision for all municipal staff to return to the office full-time in January. Delve into discussions about potential fare increases for local transit and the challenges of budgeting amidst provincial pressures. Lastly, ponder the controversial proposal for a pay rise for councillors, highlighting the balance between fair compensation and economic realities. A lively dive into the intersection of politics and public service!

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.

We did an extended summer recording all about Lansdowne 2.0. The local RogersTV station filmed us on location at the Great Lawn.We talk about finances, benefits and risks, but perhaps most importantly, our perspectives on what Lansdowne 2.0 is in really about.Let us know what you think. Leave a comment here or wherever you get your podcasts, and if we see it in time, we’ll respond in our next episode.You can also find 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

The discussion kicks off with insights into the city's Transportation Master Plan, exploring ambitious goals for sustainable transport by 2046. Controversy swirls around the proposed widening of the Airport Parkway, raising concerns over air quality and urban development. Financial transparency issues come to light in a dispute between builders and the city over hefty fees, while the implications of new housing strategies for asylum seekers reveal community tensions and evolving governance challenges. Innovative ideas for managing urban growth and supporting vulnerable populations are at the forefront.

The discussion kicks off with a potential mayoral bid from Jeff Leiper, exploring what it might mean for city services and transit. Paramedic response times are on the upswing, hitting a 70% success rate for urgent calls. There’s an intriguing dive into bylaw complaints, highlighting an unusual surge in dog-related incidents amidst a drop in overall calls. The episode also examines elections, stressing the need for engaging candidates to inspire voter participation, as the city navigates its future challenges.

Explore the intriguing outcomes of the recent Osgoode by-election, highlighting Isabelle Skalski's victory and its implications. Delve into the challenges of managing Ottawa's waste, including options for the Trail Road landfill, while grappling with fossil fuel advertising controversies. Discover how the city is tackling its rat population and the community strategies being implemented. The panel also reflects on fiscal dilemmas facing the council, alongside plans for a summer ParkPod to engage local residents.