A New Year, New Opportunities

This is the time of year when many of us take a few moments to reflect upon the past and look forward to the future. It is even more appropriate to do so this year as we enter the second decade of the 21st century.
 
For the City of Ottawa, the last decade has been one of change, starting with the amalgamation of the regional municipalities and the challenges and opportunities that this presented. As we look back over the years we see that Ottawa has grown and matured into a vibrant and prosperous city. Just recently I had the opportunity to unveil our new population sign of over 900,000. Home building continues at a steady rate, and our economy has reasonably withstood the pressures of a global economic downturn and the loss of Nortel. In short, Ottawa remains strong and continues to be the greatest city in which to start a career and raise a family.
 
For over three years now I have had the privilege of being your Mayor. The job has not been without its challenges- but working to overcome those challenges is what makes this role so meaningful. Family, friends and my faith have helped me along the way. As I reflect upon my time here I know that together we have made this city better, and I am grateful for the support that you have shown for me.
 
I came into office amidst controversy; the city was about to make what I deemed to be a fatally flawed decision on light-rail. What I believed then has only been confirmed-  that every modern and efficient mass transit system begins or ends with an escalator. Our downtown would not have survived the disruption of surface rail and the system would have been congested from day one.
 
Looking forward, we now have a plan that will move people under our downtown on comfortable, climate-controlled light-rail. Once completed, it will be the building block for an even more prosperous Ottawa.
 
In the three years since this council has been together we have made the right long term decisions for our city. Our $40 million share of the Ottawa Convention Center expansion will attract new visitors and new investments. We voted to contribute to the creation of new facilities at our two colleges, which will support the next generation of skilled trades people. And we have invested in our aging infrastructure at a record rate. These are the accomplishments for which we can be very proud.
 
During the last election campaign I spoke of the need to do something with Lansdowne Park. For years people from around the world would ask why such a beautiful location in the heart of Canada’s capital city was allowed to fall into such disrepair. Past councils failed to act, and we found ourselves needing to blow up part of the stands because of their short-sightedness.
 
We have now started a process that will see this grand site transformed. How could we have called ourselves a world-class city without a world-class facility and grounds for the enjoyment of sports and entertainment? After years of talk I am excited about the future reality of Lansdowne.
 
People tell me everyday that they are feeling increasingly safer and more secure in their community. I am so proud of the work that the police and social service agencies have done to improve the quality of life of all residents- especially those less fortunate. Through targeted action, we are working to eliminate the dangers of drugs and the tragic effects they have on individuals and on our community as a whole.
 
Three years ago I suggested that our journey of transformation would take 1000 days. We soon will reach that milestone, but before we do, your council must continue to make customer service our number one priority. We must give final approval to begin work on the Lansdowne Plan, and we must sign an agreement to fund our transit plan.
 
The last decade has been one of change in our city, and there is still much to be done, but I am confident that we are on the right path. By working together, we will realize Ottawa’s brightest potential.
 
Best wishes for the New Year,
 
 
Mayor Larry O’Brien