COUNCILLOR’S MESSAGE
The risk that we’re ignoring: from General Burns Pool to Ottawa’s financial future
When General Burns Pool opens later this month, I hope residents get as much enjoyment out of it as they can — because the truth is, we don’t know how long that pool will be there.
According to City staff, outdoor concrete pools are typically expected to last about 50 years. General Burns Pool is now 58 years old. Officially, it’s considered to be at “end-of-life”. Last summer, residents will recall with great frustration how it was closed for weeks during the hottest part of the year because of emergency repairs. Those repairs cost roughly $170,000 to extend its life through 2030, followed by another $30,000 this year for the change-room pavilion.
City staff have acknowledged that General Burns Pool has been “identified as requiring replacement”, but there is no funding source for the replacement. We’re spending $200,000 simply to buy time.
The story of General Burns Pool tells you almost everything you need to know about the Long Range Financial Plan that is now before Council. The Long Range Financial Plan (LRFP) is the City’s 10‑year roadmap for how it plans to pay for the repair, replacement, and expansion of major infrastructure—like roads, facilities, and public assets—based on what we anticipate that the City can afford.
Regular readers of this newsletter know that I have been sounding the alarm for several years about the state of our infrastructure. We are increasingly spending public money not to properly renew aging infrastructure, but to buy time. We are patching, extending, monitoring, and deferring. Ultimately, we’re hoping. We’re hoping that assets and facilities like General Burns Pool don’t become unusable, because there’s no plan — and no money —for what happens when they do,
The City clearly values the pool, or at least the service it provides to residents. If it didn’t, it wouldn’t spend the $200,000. But valuing something and properly funding its future are not the same thing. And that same question now hangs over a growing number of public assets across Ottawa.
To its credit, the LRFP finally admits the scale of the problem. Staff estimate Ottawa faces an annual shortfall of $143.2 million just to meet what they call “priority” tax-supported capital needs — renewal, growth, and regulatory obligations. When end-of-life facility replacements are included, as well as the costs of upgrades to modernize our infrastructure, the annual gap rises to $229.1 million.
In plain terms, that’s annual funding the City does not currently have for infrastructure it has already determined needs to be built, repaired, or upgraded.
These are not minor budget pressures. This is a quality of life issue. This is a systemic, structural challenge caused not only by external factors beyond our control, such as rising construction costs, but repeated political decisions to defer capital investments and to keep taxes lower than what the city actually requires.
What concerns me most is how the LRFP proposes to respond to this existential challenge. The plan does not solve the problem so much as manage it. It pushes the issue down the road, as we’ve done year after year. The LRFP proposes modest increases in capital spending, taking on more debt, repeatedly drawing from reserves, and a promise to study the situation again in a few years.
But here’s where it gets frightening. The plan also introduces the language of “prioritization,” “service adjustments,” and “facility rationalization.” Residents should understand what that means in plain English: some assets and facilities will be maintained and others will not. Some facilities may be consolidated, closed, or even sold off. Which ones? We do not know.
The plan also separates out things like accessibility upgrades, climate resilience, and road safety policies like our Complete Streets program as “service enhancements” that may need to be reconsidered, i.e. jettisoned. That has real implications, because these are not decorative extras. They are the standards of a modern city. That is not fiscal prudence. It is a form of austerity — one that future residents will pay for in poorer service, diminished value, weaker resilience, and more expensive retrofits later on.
And where did this sudden willingness to compromise on accessibility emerge from? Where was this “tighten our belts” prudence during the campaign for Lansdowne 2.0, where a majority of councillors rushed to advance a half-billion-dollar sports-and-entertainment facility that still had many years of life left, partly for the sake of accessibility upgrades? Will those same councillors cry “foul” at the LRFP?
I will say plainly what I believe is happening here: this is an attempt to push the pain until after the election. The timing is hard to ignore. The staff report on the LRFP is candid enough to show that the city is in trouble, but cautious enough to avoid fully embracing the revenue response that reality demands. That is not accidental. It is political.
Now, to be fair, Ottawa is not alone. Municipalities across Canada are facing serious infrastructure deficits. Toronto’s asset management analysis identified a $26 billion state-of-good-repair gap, later reduced to $18 billion after major capital investments and provincial support. Across the country, cities own most of the infrastructure people depend on but have only a narrow set of revenue tools to maintain it. This is a genuine national problem, one that I’m sure will be spoken about at the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Annual Conference that I’m headed to later this week.
But cities are not all responding the same way. Toronto has taken a more urgent approach and begun to see results — raising taxes more substantially, introducing dedicated infrastructure levies, securing new provincial funding, and making large upfront investments to catch up on their backlog, rather than deferring those costs. Ottawa, by contrast, is still trying to manage a 21st-century infrastructure problem with a 20th-century low-tax reflex.
Which brings me to the Mayor’s oft-repeated line, and one he’s already used to frame his recently announced re-election campaign: that it would be “risky” to raise taxes. While I understand that affordability remains a key concern to residents, I must reject his framing of the issue. In my mind, the risky approach is the one we are living through now, the one that Ottawa has embraced for far too long: keeping tax increases below what the city needs, deferring repairs, draining reserves, taking on unnecessary debt, and quietly preparing residents for service reductions and facility losses. It is celebrating low taxes and the myth of “efficiencies”.
And here is what makes that argument even harder to defend: this was not inevitable. We would not be in the genuinely risky, uncertain state we are in currently if we’d just shown a modicum of political courage.
Over the course of this Term of Council, Mayor Sutcliffe increased property taxes by modest amounts: 2.5% in 2023, 2.5% in 2024, 2.9% in 2025 (plus a 1% increase in the dedicated transit levy), and 3.75% in 2026. These increases are dramatically lower than what most major Canadian cities did over that same span. Ottawa’s property taxes for the average-priced home consistently rank among the lowest of major Ontario municipalities.
In other words, there was room to go further.
If Ottawa had increased property taxes by just 1% more per year over the last four years, the City’s permanent tax revenue baseline today would likely be in range of $150 million higher annually — more than enough to cover the LRFP’s current $143.2 million annual priority gap.
In other words, much of the genuine crisis that City staff are currently describing was avoidable and is the by-product of yearly political choices to keep taxes artificially low. I have been sounding the alarm about that ever since I was elected — not because I enjoy arguing for higher taxes, or that I relish being labeled as “radical”, but because I could see where this path was leading: deferred costs, deteriorating infrastructure, and a bill that would eventually come due.
And if we continue this path, we risk creating something even worse than a large infrastructure deficit. We risk creating a two-tier city: a city where some neighbourhoods get newer facilities, safer streets, and modernized assets, while others are left with decrepit infrastructure held together by short-term fixes. A city where older pools, arenas, fieldhouses, and community facilities become increasingly vulnerable to “rationalization.” A city where residents in brand-new “growth areas” see less and less reason to venture into the increasingly neglected neighborhoods inside the Greenbelt.
That is why the Long Range Financial Plan matters. It is not just a technical report. It is a warning. We can keep buying time and pretending that deferral is prudent. Or we can admit that General Burns Pool is a glimpse of a possible future of Ottawa if we do not change course.
CITY WORKS
Highway 417 (Pinecrest) work accelerated for early completion
Median construction near the Pinecrest Road overpass is now expected to finish by July 6, three weeks ahead of schedule. Work involving the installation of a new overhead sign foundation, affected by LRT construction, has required eastbound lane shifts and westbound reductions, contributing to congestion.
To speed progress, crews are working evenings and weekends. To help ease traffic, the westbound Woodroffe on-ramp bus lane is now open to general traffic, and signal timing on nearby arterial roads is being optimized. Additional measures under review include police presence, added signage, and traffic calming.
Minor Sidewalk Renewal Program
As part of the City of Ottawa’s annual infrastructure maintenance cycle, the Minor Sidewalk Renewal Program is rolling out across 38 locations citywide—including four right here in Ward 9. Starting in early June, TJL Construction will begin rehabilitating priority sidewalk panels to address immediate repair needs and improve pedestrian conditions.
In our ward, work will take place on Carola Street (Newhaven to Knoxdale), Craig Henry Drive (Chartwell to Bertona), Greenbank Road (Bellman to Gibbard), and Riverbrook Road (Cosburn to Parkland). Most sites will begin shortly and wrap up within 2–3 weeks, with select school-adjacent work scheduled for July.
Expect temporary lane reductions and parking impacts; local access will be maintained. Residents with irrigation systems in the right of way should notify the project team. Accessibility accommodations remain a priority throughout construction.
Flooding Mitigation in Ward 9
Following the August 10, 2023 flooding event, the City has launched a targeted stormwater mitigation initiative across Borden Farm, Fisher Glen, Parkwood Hills, and Carleton Heights. I’ve been working closely with City staff to develop a more comprehensive approach to understanding and addressing the historic flooding challenges in these neighbourhoods—this program is one important first step.
This phase will see the installation of driveway humps on 69 reverse-grade driveways in Ward 9. These small asphalt rises at the curbline help prevent water from spilling onto private property during extreme rainfall events—an approach the City has used successfully in the past.
This spring, selected homeowners will be invited to participate, with design work expected in fall 2026 and construction in 2027.
Importantly, this is part of a broader, phased strategy to improve stormwater infrastructure and neighbourhood resilience. I’ll have more to share as additional measures are developed.
Capacity Returning to O-Train Line 1
Starting Monday, June 8, OC Transpo will restore full weekday capacity on O-Train Line 1.
For riders, this means:
- Double-car trains will return on weekdays.
- Trains will arrive approximately every five minutes during peak periods.
- More space on trains and improved capacity during the busiest travel times.
Weekend service will continue to operate with single-car trains.
Celebrate Spring into Spring!
Spring into Spring is an event that encourages students to walk, wheel, or use other fun travel methods on their way to school or around their neighbourhood. By choosing to active travel, children and adults can get to know their communities and neighbourhoods, develop lifelong habits and keep their school zone safe!
Enjoy the quality time you get to spend with your family as you travel to school together! Check out this poster for activity ideas to celebrate Spring into Spring.
Assistance with Air Conditioning
We’ve had a couple of glimpses of warm weather already this year, and there is a lot more to come in the long hot days of summer. For residents with low household income, staying cool can be a challenge. But some help is available. Low income households may be eligible for financial assistance to help pay for air conditioning through Ontario Works or the City’s Essential Health and Social Supports (EHSS) program. You’ll need a prescription from a doctor or a nurse practitioner, and you will need approval from those programs before purchasing anything. EHSS, in particular, does not reimburse for purchases that have been made prior to applying.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Queensway Carleton Hospital – Patient & Family Advisory Council
Join the Patient & Family Advisory Council at Queensway Carleton Hospital!
Upcoming public consultations
Among the many new infrastructure projects that will be coming to Ward 9 over the next few years, several of them will involve public consultation processes to solicit feedback from residents. We wanted to provide residents with some advance awareness of these various projects, as well as the consultation sessions. We’ll certainly provide more details as they become confirmed. The following is a summary:
- New sidewalks in Fisher Heights: The City has retained AECOM to begin functional design work on a new sidewalk connection in Fisher Heights, linking Baseline Road Hilliard Avenue, with the objective of providing active transportation links to the Ottawa Islamic School. As outlined in the Transportation Master Plan, this project will extend sidewalks along Zena Street, Sunnycrest Drive, and Barlyn Avenue. Draft designs are expected by the end of July, with a public consultation to follow. Councillor Devine will be briefed in advance and will ensure community input helps shape the final design. But our office is very pleased to see this project advancing.
- Viewmount Drive Neighborhood Traffic Calming Project: Our office is thrilled to have seen the commencement of the Neighborhood Traffic Calming (NTC) Project for Viewmount Drive, which remains one of the more dangerous high-speed corridors in our ward. In a subsequent issue of this newsletter, we’ll provide some detail on the rationale behind this project, including the high rates of speeding and history of collisions at each of the intersections between Merivale Road and Fisher Avenue. Our office has already seen the preliminary design for this project, and we are very enthused to see how proactive and innovative the City is being when it comes to recommendations for effective measures for slowing down cars and providing safer usage for pedestrians and cyclists. It is our understanding that there will be a three-week online consultation later this month, to be then followed by an online public meeting in July.
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Farlane Boulevard Accelerated Traffic Calming Project: The City’s Accelerated Traffic Calming Project is a quicker version of the NTC program, since it focuses on roads that aren’t used as transit corridors, nor are they regularly used as routes for emergency vehicles. Farlane Boulevard has been identified as one of these roads. We also wanted to mention that this program isn’t as extensive as the NTC program, and it typically only provides speed humps. Based on the preliminary designs that we have reviewed, the plan is likely to involve 4 sets of speed humps on Farlane Boulevard between Baseline Road and Wallford Way. There will be an online consultation for this project later in June.
CPTED Meeting on Merivale
As mentioned in our last newsletter, Councillor Devine convened a meeting last week between the staff at Plato’s Closet – a thrift store in the Merivale Triangle – and Ottawa Police Sgt. John Drader, who is an expert on Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED). The purpose of the meeting was to address the store’s recent spike in shoplifting through a discussion of CPTED principles with the store’s staff, as well as a mini assessment of the store’s layout and current security protocols.
Over the next several weeks, Councillor Devine will be working with management at Plato’s Closet to organize a larger meeting of local businesses, with the aim of organizing a more coordinated approach to sharing information and improving the safety situation for these local businesses.
PUBLIC HEALTH & SAFETY
West Nile Virus and Lyme Disease in Ottawa: What You Need to Know
We are heading into great, warm outdoor activity weather in Ottawa. And, with that shift, we all need to keep an eye out for ticks and mosquitoes and take some basic precautions. Ticks and mosquitos can carry infections that pose health risks, particularly Lyme disease and West Nile virus (WNV).
Lyme disease is caused by bacteria transmitted through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks. The risk increases the longer a tick remains attached, so prompt removal is essential. Early symptoms typically appear within three to 32 days and may include a circular “bull’s-eye” rash, fever, fatigue, headache, and muscle or joint pain. If untreated, the infection can affect the heart, nervous system, and joints. Anyone who believes a tick may have been attached to them for more than 24 hours should seek medical advice.
West Nile virus is spread by mosquitoes that have bitten infected birds. Most people experience no symptoms, but some develop mild flu-like illness. In rare cases, serious neurological complications can occur. In Ontario, risk peaks in late summer.
Residents can reduce risk by using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, avoiding peak mosquito times, checking for ticks, and eliminating standing water around their homes. Ottawa Public Health monitors both diseases, tracks tick and mosquito activity, and provides public guidance. You can check out their web site for more information.
Respiratory Disease Update
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
Baseline Merivale Secondary Plan—Public Info Session
The second public info session for the Baseline-Merivale Secondary Plan is coming on June 15th. The event will be an open house drop-in format, held at the Julian of Norwich Anglican Church at 7 Rossland Avenue from 7:00 pm -8:30 pm. This will be your next chance to check out some of the early thinking on this important project and to provide input to the city planning team. There will be displays all around the room and staff on hand to discuss them with you and answer your questions.
If you are looking for a little background on the project, a recent profile of the project in The Ottawa Lookout provides a good primer and you can always get more information and track the progress of the plan through Engage Ottawa. See you on the 15th!
COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS
Trend Arlington Community Association: Can Renewable Energy Save Money?
Curious about lowering energy bills and increasing resilience during power outages? Join neighbours for a relaxed community conversation about solar panels, electric vehicles, and renewable energy. Hear practical insights from local organizations and a Trend Arlington homeowner sharing their real experience. Featuring: CAFES Ottawa, Ottawa Renewable Energy Co-op (OREC), Electric Vehicle Council of Ottawa (EVCO). Whether you’re exploring options or just curious, all are welcome.
- Location: 50 Bellman Drive
- Date & Time: Monday, June 8th at 7:00 pm
Fighting blindness with Move for Sight
- Location: Sir Robert Borden High School
- Date & Time: Saturday, June 6th from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm
Youth soccer sessions with ANYO
After Councillor Devine introduced this program to Ward 9 last year through a self-initiated pilot project, we could not be prouder to see the return of ANYO (Active Newcomer Youth Organization) to Ward 9 and Craig Henry Drive.
- Location: 135 Craig Henry Drive
- Date & Time:
- June 3rd – September 30th – Wednesdays from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm
- June 6th – September 26th – Saturdays from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
Parkwood Hills Backyard Gardening
- Location: Parkwood Hills & surrounding areas
- Date: May to September 2026
Manordale Woodvale & Surrounding Area Community Garage Sale
- Location: Margaret Rywak Community Building & surrounding neighbourhood
- Date & Time: Saturday, June 6th from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm
Manordale-Woodvale Adult Softball Registration
- Location: Manordale Park, 68 Knoxdale Road
- Date & Time: July 8th – September 2nd from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
- Age: 19+
Walk to End ALS
June is ALS Awareness Month. Join the Walk to End ALS!
- Location: Tony Graham Recreation Complex & Walter Baker Park, 100 Charlie Rogers Place
- Date & Time: Saturday, June 6th
- Registration: 10:00 AM - Opening Ceremony: 10:30 AM
Tools 4 School
Support local students through the Tools 4 School backpack drive. Registration opens June 8th for those in need. Donations will be collected until distribution in the second and third weeks of August (dates to be confirmed), helping equip Grade 10–12 students for the school year ahead. Donate to NROCRC Tools 4 Schools.
Fisher Heights Area Community Association Garage Sale
The Fisher Heights Area Community Association is excited to organize a Community Garage Sale.
We’re inviting residents within the Fisher Heights community to host their own garage sale right from their driveway or front yard. To help attract visitors from across Ottawa, participating sale locations will be added to a public Google Map that shoppers can use to plan their route for the day. To register your address, please complete the online Google Form. Click here for the Sale Map.
Date & Time: Saturday, June 13, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM (rain date of Sunday, June 14)
Parkwood Church and Connected Canadians – Cyber Safety Workshop
This month, we are teaming up with Connected Canadians to hold an interactive presentation called "Cyber Safety Workshop: Social Engineering Awareness". Learn about scammers, recognize their manipulative techniques, and tips on how to handle these situations to ultimately avoid becoming a victim. After the presentation, there will be a period for one-on-one tech support to ensure that devices are protected, so we encourage attendees to bring along their smartphones, tablets, or laptops. Those interested in the tech support may either call or email the Parkwood office.
