Mayor worries transit funding could be delayed due to federal government house of cards

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Good morning!

We are only five days away from Christmas! That means this will be our last regular newsletter before coming back from a well-earned break on Jan. 3. We are putting together an insider for this weekend, though, and hope to share a full year in review sometime soon. 

As I think back to all that’s happened in 2024, it’s sometimes difficult to fathom how much fits into a 365-day calendar year. Ottawa has definitely had its fair share of tragedies and difficult headlines: I think back to the drowning of two teens in Manotick after last Christmas, the five Sri Lankan nationals who were killed in one of Ottawa’s worst-ever homicides in Barrhaven, the two femicides which occurred this year, the Sprung structure debate, Ottawa’s push for more provincial and federal funds, the list goes on. 

There were good stories, too. So many charity events, neighbours helping neighbours, and residents stepping up to help charities which are struggling. The story that comes to mind for me, though is Ryan Reynolds surprising Nash, an Ottawa boy who is currently receiving radiation treatments for cancer in a Boston hospital. The Deadpool star recently came to Ottawa, where he toured the Canadian Mint with the heroic and brave 8-year-old. 

Whatever the next year holds, I hope it will include more feel-good stories like this. In an ever-polarizing world full of war, political games, mystery drones and violence, this is needed more now than ever. 

Today we have a story on Mayor Mark Sutcliffe’s concerns over future federal transit funding amidst a turbulent time at Parliament Hill. He believes a multi-million dollar investment could be coming. We’ve also got a first sneak peak at Ottawa’s new Trillium line set to open to the public on Jan. 6. 

I took my partner out for his birthday dinner last night and was happy when the bill came and I saved about $10 on tax. Local businesses say this is a boost they need, but the sudden changes are also costing them money. We share the various reactions.  

I also want to take a quick moment to thank all of you who became members in November. Thanks to your generous support, we were able to donate $1,300 to Lung Cancer Canada! As many of you know, this is a charity that hits close to home, but I’ve heard from countless readers who are in the same boat. Every little bit counts. 

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. Let’s get to the news of today! 

— Charlie Senack, managing editor 

[email protected] 

X: @Charlie_Senack

PS - If you find this newsletter valuable, please consider forwarding it to your friends. New to the Lookout? Sign up for free.

WEATHER

Friday: -8 🌡️ -13 | 🌨️

Saturday: -13 🌡️ -21 | 🌨️

Sunday: -14 🌡️ -19 | ☀️

Monday: -10 🌡️ -21 | ☁️

TRANSIT

Transit funding is most likely coming, but will it be delayed due to federal political drama?

Good news could be coming: As Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe first hinted in the Ottawa Lookout a few weeks back, he believes the city is close to reaching a multi-million dollar transit deal with both the provincial and federal governments. 

In a year-end interview with CBC, Sutcliffe said he was worried progress could be stalled due to the chaos unfolding on Parliament Hill as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces mounting calls to resign and following the abrupt resignation of former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. 

• “I'm hopeful that we're getting close to the finish line, but I am a little bit worried about what's going on on Parliament Hill," said Sutcliffe. 

Talks are happening: On X Kanata-Carleton MP Jenna Sudds, who is also the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development, said she was “encouraged by the ongoing thoughtful collaboration” with Sutcliffe and city officials. 

• “We are working together on solutions focused on the needs of Ottawa residents. Our goals are the same: Ensure Ottawa residents are well served,” she said. 

Those talks have been ongoing since Sutcliffe launched his ‘Fairness for Ottawa’ campaign in August, which noted federal cuts to transfers meant to compensate for property tax revenue created a $100 million hole. That is not good news as OC Transpo finds itself with a roughly $140 million gap in its budget. 

No promises: The fall economic statement tabled this week had virtually no funding for Ottawa, including none for transit. The only investment for the Capital was money for a bridge and a possible tramway from Ottawa to Gatineau. Sudds’ office would not confirm if further funding would be coming. 

Sutcliffe also said the provincial government would be willing to bring forward transit funding if the feds stepped in first. 

A peek inside Ottawa’s Trillium Line 

It’s almost here: Ottawa’s Trillium line will finally open to commuters on Jan. 6, roughly two years after it was supposed to be in operation. Service will begin only on weekdays with a three-stage approach aimed at ensuring nothing goes wrong. 

It’s important for OC Transpo after Phase 1 of the Confederation Line faced countless hurdles during its first few weeks — or even months — after opening in September 2019. Because of this slow approach, don't expect any big opening like what was seen back then. 

A first look: On Monday, a handful of reporters were given a sneak peek at the 24-kilometre system that will include 14 new stations from Bayview to Riverside South with a stretch out to the airport. 

OC Transpo general manager Renée Amilcar was literally jumping for joy as she welcomed the media, noting they were hoping for rough weather to test the limits of the new system. 

• “We’ll continue to build on everything. We’re going to work on reliability. We’re going to work on how quickly we can fix things. We’ll continue to train our people,” Amilcar said, according to the Ottawa Citizen. “And hopefully we will have some freezing rain and more snow so we can practice! I can’t believe that I am saying that, but it’s true this time.”

This system is different: Unlike the Confederation Line, commuters will realize the trains feel more like a Via Rail trip than a subway. They are heavier and sturdier than the Line 1 trains, quieter, smoother, and diesel-powered. Each of the seven Swiss-made Stadler FLIRT trains can carry a maximum of 420 passengers and will reach a maximum speed of up to 80 kilometres an hour. 

Smaller trains to the airport: The three stops from South Keys to the Airport will run with smaller trains that are refurbished from the former Trillium Line system. Each can accommodate over 260 people for the eight-minute journey. 

• “It's going to help. Downtown attracts conferences," said Ottawa Airport Authority president and CEO Mark Laroche, according to CTV. "The fact that we're connected to downtown is very important to outside visitors - even for business people."

SPONSORED BY UNITED WAY EAST ONTARIO

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With the 2024 charitable tax deadline fast approaching, we’ve teamed up with Melany Goodhue, Certified Financial Planner at Pulse Wealth Management, to answer questions around charitable giving to ensure you’re making decisions that are right for you and your community this holiday season and beyond. 

Check out our blog for more on information and see how much you can save using our calculator.

NUMBERS

👔 25%: The number of casual public servants which has plummeted over the last year. [Ottawa Citizen]

🌳 88,500: The number of trees the federal government plans to plant in the National Capital Region. [Kitchissippi Times] 

🛒 1,650: The number of people who used the Parkdale Food Centre’s Mino’Weesini Grocery Program in October. [Kitchissippi Times]

🎶 $14,000: The amount of money raised during a Kebaowek First Nation benefit concert [Capital Current]

BUSINESS

Ottawa businesses react to HST/GST tax break

More in your wallet: The GST/HST tax break is now in effect for the next two months, and is welcome news to consumers who will get to save a few dollars on select items and services. But while shoppers are praising the savings, many Ottawa retailers have struggled to set up the systems and know what goods the temporary freeze applies to. 

Businesses have also reported an uptick in sales as commuters waited to do their last-minute shopping or dinner parties until the change was implemented on Dec. 14. 

• “The most expensive thing that we sell in the store is $150. Saving the tax will save just under $20,” said Hintonburg Kids owner Susie Pearson, according to CTV. 

By the numbers: Because Canadian businesses would need to itemize everything to calculate what's included and what's not, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business said that they would have about $1,000 in additional costs for reprogramming their systems. The group called it "costly and complicated.”

Helping during the dry seasons: January and February are tough months for businesses. Consumers are broke after spending more than usual during the holidays, and that can make things difficult for the 62 per cent of Canadian restaurants operating at a loss or just breaking even. 

The team at Nan's Parlour — a “grandma's dive bar" in the ByWard Market — said they are hoping to see more foot traffic as a result of the tax break. During the holidays, they’ve decked out the restaurant into a Christmas wonderland to bring further festive appeal to the space. 

• “We're going to spin it as a 'ho, ho, hold the tax' kind of scenario, and we're going to kind of encourage people ... this is your time to shine, this is your time to come out and enjoy yourself. You know, you kind of deserve it after the last year of hardship,” said Melanie Veenbaas, marketing and vibes director at Nan's Parlour, according to CBC. 

There is also disappointment: Spirits makers say it’s unfair their products aren’t included in the break when wine and beer alcoholic beverages are. 

• “If you're at the shop and you only have $40 right now with the GST holiday, are you going to buy something that's viewed as tax-free or are you going to buy something at full price that you know you can always get another time?,” said Adam Brierley, general manager at SFR Distillery in Ottawa's Kanata neighbourhood, according to CBC. 

THE AGENDA

👮🏼‍♀️ After an inquest into the death of Abdirahman Abdi wrapped up, Ottawa Police Chief Eric Stubbs said the force was looking to repair its “fractured relationship” with Ottawa’s Somali community. Stubbs said it’s clear the inquest provides “valuable insights to help us become a better, more accountable police service.” [CBC]

🏫 Nearly one-third of Ottawa Carleton District schools are below the ”state of good repair,” said the watchdog.  Without increased funding, the Financial Accountability Office estimates, the percentage of school buildings across Ontario that will not be in states of good repair in 10 years will increase to 74.6 per cent. The OCDSB is spending $105.75 million on facility renewal next year. That will go towards about 500 projects ranging from roofing and HVAC upgrades to accessibility projects such as new elevators for Hillcrest and Brookfield high schools, science lab renovations and adding or converting washrooms to universal and inclusive facilities. [Ottawa Citizen]

🏟️ A new Ottawa Tourism visitors centre has opened downtown just in time for the World Juniors and what is expected to be a very busy 2025. The new centre located in the Central Chambers replaces the Capital Information Kiosk that was located across from Parliament Hill that was shut down due to ongoing construction. [Ottawa Business Journal]

✈️ Are you travelling out of the Ottawa Airport this Christmas? Here are some tips. A news release said Friday, Sunday and Monday will be the busiest days of the year, with most flights at or near capacity. [CTV]

🚗 Drivers in Ottawa know potholes are a constant problem, but did you know they are actually decreasing? Alta Vista previously saw the most complaints, but this year has seen a 90 per cent decrease. [Capital Current]

📢 Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has called for a cabinet shuffle today, and sources say Ottawa South MP David McGuinty is among those tapped to get a position. McGuinty is expected to replace Dominic LeBlanc in Public Safety, after he took over the finance portfolio from Christia Freeland, who resigned from cabinet. Sources say Trudeau is also speaking to confidants about his own future and whether or not to resign as party leader. [CBC]

📦 Canada Post workers are back on the job, but there is no guarantee your parcels will be delivered before Christmas. The mail service says priority is being given to the packages which have been waiting the longest and are currently unable to give on-time service guarantees. Other carriers have those commitments, but it will cost you more. [CTV]

EVENTS

Ottawa Christmas Market | Aberdeen Plaza, Lansdowne Park | until Jan. 5 | Get into the holiday spirit at Ottawa’s European-style Christmas market—the perfect place for great food, warm drinks, traditional kiosks and a festive atmosphere! | Free

All of My Favourite Things Artisan Market Series | 55 Byward Market Square | Dec. 21 | Explore a vibrant selection of local artisans, crafters, and creators showcasing their talents. | Free

O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy | Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe and Shenkman Arts Centre | Dec. 20-23 | Combining British propriety with an unabashed love for the unexpected, London’s three-time Impresario Award-winning duo present an outrageously funny and brilliantly inventive show, reminiscent of classic British pantomimes. | Prices vary

Stanley’s Christmas Village | Stanley’s Olde Maple Lane Farm, 2452 Yorks Corners Rd | Dec. 21-23 | Snap a photo with Santa, grab some hot cocoa and jump on a sleigh ride through the winter forest. Play games, sing songs, and warm up around the bonfire before heading home with a freshly cut Christmas tree or goodies from the Farm Shop. | Reservations required 

Santa’s Village | Tanger Ottawa, 8555 Campeau Dr | until Dec. 24 | Bring your holiday cheer and share your wishes with the jolly old man himself. Don’t forget to snap a photo with Santa to capture the magic of the season! | Free 

Ottawa Kwanzaa Celebration |  Blu Legacy Convention Centre, 3750 North Bowesville Rd | Dec. 28 | The Ottawa Kwanzaa celebration will include a dynamic showcase of cultural dancers, drumming, singing, music and authentic African and Caribbean cuisine. | Free 

New Year’s Eve events

NYE 2025 at the Show | 104 Clarence St | Dec. 31 | Join over 500 partygoers for an unforgettable night featuring live DJs, VIP bottle service, party favours, epic dancing, and a grand countdown. | Tickets $22.60

A Hip New Year's Eve Bash | Overflow Brewing Company, 2477 Kaladar Ave | Dec. 31 | Enjoy a delicious buffet and live music by Little Bones, a tribute to The Tragically Hip. | Tickets $75

Dancing Through the Decades | Rideau Carleton Casino, 4837 Albion Rd | Dec. 31 | Groove Marmalade takes you from the '50s to today with rock ‘n’ roll, disco, 80s hits, Latin beats, and 90s throwbacks. | Tickets are $55

Lowertown New Year’s Eve 2025 Keg Party | 73 York St | Dec. 31 | Celebrate at Lowertown Brewery in ByWard Market with fantastic vibes and a complimentary beer toast at midnight. | Ticket prices vary 

The Latin Ball | DoubleTree by Hilton Ottawa Downtown, 33 Nicholas St | Dec. 31 | Celebrate with a night of salsa, bachata, and kizomba to the beats of top DJs. | Tickets are $86

New Year’s Eve at HPH | 1020 Wellington Street W | Dec. 31 | Enjoy brunch, day drinks, dinner, or late-night fun on December 31 and January 1. No set menu—just Hintonburg-style shenanigans to keep the party going. | Learn more 

FOOD

Affordable and delicious: Where to snag a meal for under $10 in Ottawa

Looking to snag some cheap eats for 2025? Ralf has put together some places he recommends.

Read more here.

PHOTO OF THE DAY

Here’s a cool shot of the city’s snow!

COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS

• Meet this Ottawa doctor which is bringing good treatment methods back for new problems. [Ottawa Citizen]

• Donate to United Way East Ontario before the year ends to make a local impact and save on your taxes. Give now. [Sponsored]

• Wendy Muckle, the co-founder of Ottawa Inner City Health, has been appointed to the Order of Canada. [Ottawa Citizen]

• In 1899 Christmas in Ottawa was much like it was today. Here’s how residents celebrated. [Kitchissippi Times]

• The twinkle tunnel at Lansdowne Park has been a big attraction this Christmas. [Ottawa Business Journal]

• Jere were the top three baby names in Ottawa this year. [CTV]

• Check out these wildlife photographs popping up by wildlife photographer Michelle Valberg in Westboro. [Kitchissippi Times]

WORDLE

Think you can guess the last Ottawa Wordle of the year? Play it here.