The city of Ottawa is facing a $25.6 million transit deficit for 2024 and a $120 million funding gap in 2025.

The transit system has been significantly impacted by severe revenue shortfalls, largely due to a sharp decline in ridership from the COVID-19 pandemic. OC Transpo and Para Transpo have not seen ridership return to 2019 levels, with the transit service projecting an $85 million deficit this year. As fares increase, some women are forced to walk in unsafe conditions or remain isolated at home. While EquiPass, a monthly adult pass for low-income individuals, remains unaffordable for many.

This matters due to an issue of affordability, economic growth, and is a crucial necessity for not only a city, but the capital city of Canada.

During his campaign, Mayor Mark Sutcliffe opposed any plans to eliminate transit fares broadly through increased tax levies. He argued that improving service quality, rather than raising fares, would be key to restoring ridership. As part of his transit plan, Sutcliffe proposed a one-year fare freeze for all riders, which would build on a previously announced freeze for low-income and senior passes. Additionally, he emphasized the need for more transparent and up-to-date data on the system’s performance.

To address the city’s funding shortfalls, Sutcliffe has warned that increases in transit fares and property taxes are possible. However, he remains hopeful that higher levels of government will step up with financial support.

Sutcliffe continues to engage in discussions with both federal and provincial leaders, although no concrete plans have been put forward yet to resolve the funding challenges.

“Having a collective voice is always important and we are really trying to emphasize the impact transit can have on housing, affordability, climate change and on the economy. There are so many benefits from transit so, we are making sure that message comes loud and clear to our federal counterparts,” Sutcliffe stated.

The draft budget meetings for 2025 are scheduled to run from November 4 to December 5, with final approval expected by mid-December.

This plan limits the amount of garbage items households can put out on collection day. The goal of this is to encourage proper recycling practices and reduce unnecessary waste going to the landfill.

This means households can only put out three garbage items on collection day. Garbage items include a:

• Garbage bag
• Garbage container up to 140 litres
• Bulky item

Any additional garbage items that cannot be recycled must be placed in a City branded yellow bag.

This does not limit or impact how much residents can set out for their recycling or green bins. Before throwing something away, consider if it can be recycled. If so, dispose of it properly to help our environment.