Ottawa councillors hosting budget consultations starting next week

The City of Ottawa wants to hear from residents as council prepares Draft Budget 2025.

During the month of October, community members will have a number of opportunities to help shape the city’s draft budget, the municipality said in a press release.

The City’s Finance and Corporate Service Committee approved Ottawa’s proposed 2025 budget directions, timeline and consultation process on Sept. 16.

Beginning on Oct. 7, councillors across the city will be hosting consultation sessions. During these, residents can share comments, insights and provide input regarding the top priorities and possible ways to save.

“Councillor-led public consultations will focus on how the budget is developed, what is within and outside the City’s control when it comes to drafting the budget, and to hear your feedback,” wrote the City of Ottawa on its website.

Community members can locate a budget consultation in their area, as well as the most up-to-date list of sessions, information and resource materials for Draft Budget 2025 by visiting Engage Ottawa.

The city suggests visiting the website for updates, as additional sessions are still being planned and dates and times could change.

Click here for a list of Councillor-led public consultations.

What to know about Draft Budget 2025

In a report providing recommendations to council, the budget directions report suggested a municipal tax increase of no more than 2.9 per cent in this year’s budget.

This tax increase would be made up of levies for the municipality, Ottawa Public Library, Ottawa Public Health and Ottawa Police Service.

Additionally, Ottawa’s Transit Services budget will be developed with possibility of funding up to $120 million from federal and provincial governments. 

The city’s budget will also consider increasing the transit levy between 2.9 and 37 per cent, as well as a transit-fare increase between 2.5 and 75 per cent in 2025.

The draft budget will be tabled at council on Nov. 13.