This week at City Council: Renovictions and Tenant Protections: A Step Forward
This week Ottawa City Council took a significant step toward addressing the issue of “renovictions” by instructing staff to investigate recent changes to the Residential Tenancies Act and explore the possibility of a renovation licensing and relocation by-law. Commonly referred to as a renovictions by-law, this initiative aims to prevent landlords from evicting tenants under the guise of conducting necessary renovations or repairs. Staff have been tasked with reviewing the feasibility, legality, and practicality of such a by-law, with a report expected by the second quarter of 2026.
Here in Ottawa, this issue hits close to home, particularly in Bay Ward at Aspen Towers, where tenants have received unclear eviction notices tied to renovations. These situations highlight the urgent need for action. While tenant protections, including safeguards against illegal evictions and rent controls, are primarily the province’s responsibility, I believe the province has not done enough to address these challenges. Although Ontario recently enhanced some tenant protections, municipalities such as London, Hamilton, and Toronto have taken proactive measures by implementing renoviction bylaws in 2025.
Pinecrest and Queensview Stations Secondary Plan
In addition to the progress on renovictions, Council approved the Pinecrest and Queensview Stations Secondary Plan. The Plan includes extensive proposed park space in Queensview, improved connections to Ruth Wildgen Park, and guidance for redeveloping Foster Farm to create more affordable housing near transit with diverse building types and heights. It also highlights the future Recreation Complex at 2550 Queensview Drive, which will support area growth, and could potentially include a double ice pad for Bay Ward. I extend my gratitude to the community for their active participation and to City staff for their dedication, ensuring this plan reflects our shared vision for a vibrant, connected neighborhood.
Governance Changes and Other Updates
Council tabled its Mid-term Governance Review report, which proposes changes to committee structures and mandates. Recommendations include dissolving the Light Rail Sub-Committee, renaming the Transit Commission to the Transit Committee, and reducing the frequency of standing committee meetings to six per year, with exceptions for specific committees. The Nominating Committee will meet on January 28 to discuss changes to committee memberships.
Finally, the City recognized Dr. Vera Etches for her exceptional contributions as Ottawa’s Medical Officer of Health, an acknowledgment of her continued dedication to the well-being of our community. I wish her all the best in her new position at CHEO. Through these initiatives, Ottawa City Council is addressing critical issues and planning for a brighter, more equitable future for all residents.
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