It’s summer, and while many are in vacation mode, it’s time to get engaged and inform City of Ottawa officials about what priorities matter to you. The city has opened pre-budget public consultations that will continue until the 2025 draft budget is tabled on November 13, 2024.
Last year, Mayor Sutcliffe personally visited residents, but this year, you can voice your concerns through the city’s Engage Ottawa Draft Budget 2025 online platform, where you will find a poll where you can share your opinions. Other opportunities to share your input include calling 3-1-1 or using #OttBudget in social media posts.
Whether it involves green spaces, park improvements, pothole repairs, snow clearance, waste collection, public transit, policing, or other city services, this is your chance to impact the municipal budgeting process.
The City of Ottawa’s Engage Ottawa pole closes on Friday, September 13, but residents will also have the opportunity to participate in councillor-led budget consultations between September and November. Ward councillors will set their own dates which will be posted on ottawa.ca, Engage Ottawa. Residents can find their ward councillor by using the “Find Your Councillor” feature on the City of Ottawa website.
Crafting the budget is the most important task of the Ottawa City Council; it determines the taxes to be collected, allocates funds for essential programs and services that residents rely on, and addresses the infrastructure maintenance and growth needs of the city. Make sure you get involved in the process.