Planning and Housing Committee
The Planning and Housing Committee received an update on the City’s new interactive, accessible housing dashboard, which will provide real-time data on housing applications, approvals, and permits. This will be an exciting way to track data across the city and by ward.
The Committee also approved a six-storey building on Arrowsmith Drive, which will house the Gloucester Emergency Food Cupboard and provide 50 affordable rental apartments, including 10 accessible units. Additionally, a two-and-a-half-storey residential care facility on Forestglade Crescent will offer 13 units with 30 beds to expand housing options. Both will be welcome additions to those neighbourhoods.
Environment and Climate Change Committee
With extreme weather becoming more frequent, the Environment and Climate Change Committee approved updates to the Residential Protective Plumbing Program to help residents reduce flood risks. The program offers increased rebates for protective plumbing installations, including:
- $3,000 for a sump pump in a new pit ($1,500 for an existing pit)
- $2,500 for an exterior storm backwater valve
- $1,000 for an indoor backwater valve
- Full coverage of the building permit fee
Building Climate Resilience
This is a good time to remind everyone, with the spring thaw approaching, and given the large amount of snow we have received, residents can help mitigate flood risks by:
- Managing rainwater with downspout redirection, rain barrels, and permeable landscaping
- Keeping storm drains clear to prevent water buildup
- Checking flood risk maps and reviewing insurance coverage
- Planting trees to absorb rainwater and reduce urban heat
The Rain Ready Ottawa program offers rebates up to $5,000 for flood mitigation measures.
The Environment and Climate Change Committee also received an update on the Tree Dedication Program, which replaced the Commemorative Tree Program. This initiative allows residents to plant a tree in honor of a person, milestone, or community event. Dedications can mark occasions like births and anniversaries or recognize community contributions. Trees are planted in designated City parks, with species selected based on site conditions. The new system will help streamline requests, and staff stated this should result in more commemorative trees being planted each year.
Accessible Taxi Inquiry
My office was asked by a Bay Ward resident to investigate the Accessible Taxi Cab Pilot Project to ensure it is effectively serving those who rely on this service. I received a formal response to my Staff Inquiry, which was presented to the Emergency and Protective Services Committee. While this program is a three-year pilot, residents need to understand how it is functioning. My concern with the written response is that it highlighted a lack of coordination with Para Transpo, which remains the primary transportation service for residents using mobility devices. However, staff have committed to working with OC Transpo on a report later this year to better integrate this program with Para Transpo, addressing the current siloed approach to accessible transportation services.
Council approved the pilot program in 2023, offering $5,000 annually to accessible taxi plate holders, up to $2,000 for qualifying drivers, and a $15 per trip subsidy. As of early 2025, 77 accessible taxi licenses are active, with three new in 2024 (3.9%) and four pending due to a six-month vehicle delivery delay, which may impact uptake. On-demand accessible trips have increased by 26%, averaging 1,260 rides per month. Staff are working with OC Transpo on a report to improve integration with Para Transpo and address service gaps.
I look forward to hearing how the City is working to improve accessible transportation for those who rely on it.
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