Newsletter - Dec. 7
Introducing Councillor David Brown
Having lived in Richmond my whole life, I am excited to be representing the very ward I call home. Whether we grew up together, met about town, or connected on the campaign trail, many of you may already know me. I look forward to meeting even more of you as we move forward.
During my term in office, I will be focusing on making Ward 21 an even better place to live. Some of the issues I will be taking on include cleaning up our public finances, ensuring that our city is run efficiently and transparently, fixing our roads and infrastructure, and addressing the local challenges we face within our ward. I'm only a couple of weeks into my new role, and I have already met with key stakeholders on many of these initiatives!
I look forward to serving you!
Councillor David Brown
Ward Updates
Our Ward 21 website is live! We will strive to make it an information hub of events, projects, news, updates and resources. Bookmark www.ward21.ca
It’s the holiday season! Get out and support your local community events. Follow our social channels to stay informed. Have an event you’d like us to promote? Email it to: ward21@ottawa.ca
City Updates
Recreation, Cultural and Facility Services with the City of Ottawa has recently launched its new registration, booking and payment system. Easily view this winter’s offerings by activity, time, age, and location! Create your account today. Programs are now open for registration. Visit register.ottawa.ca
Vacant Unit Tax: The Vacant Unit Tax (VUT) was approved in May 2022 during the previous term of council. The intent of the VUT is to increase available housing stock across the city. If a residential unit has been vacant for more than 184 days, the city would add a 1 percent tax based on the assessed value of the home. For example, a homeowner or landlord with a residential unit with assessed value of $300,000 which has been vacant for more than 184 days would see an additional tax of $3,000 added to their final tax bill. Read more
Get involved! The City of Ottawa is currently recruiting volunteers to contribute on various Committees and Boards! The City could benefit greatly from your expertise and knowledge, while you gain insight and knowledge of how the City works. Everyone who is a resident of the City of Ottawa aged 18 or older are encouraged to considered applying! For more information, visit: ottawa.ca/committees
Light Rail Transit: Last week, the Ottawa Light Rail Transit Commission released its report on the public inquiry into the LRT. The report highlights the need for greater cooperation, transparency, and accountability when it comes to major infrastructure projects, arguing that greater effort is needed to ensure that the public interest is prioritized. Elected officials are responsible to the public, and so we need to have all available information to make accurate and informed decisions; the report is troubling as it suggests that Council is not always provided with accurate and truthful information. Rest assured that our office will do everything in our power to ensure that public money is always spent responsibly, and the public interest is protected. Our office would appreciate comments and feedback from residents who wish to share their views on this important issue. Further information, including a summary of key findings, recommendations, and the full report, can be found here: Ottawa Light Rail Transit Commission
Stay in Touch
We want to hear from you! Connect with the team and stay informed by:
Following us on social media by clicking the icons on this page
Emailing your concerns to ward21@ottawa.ca
Calling the office at 613-580-2491
Meeting with Councillor Brown at the North Gower office every Thursday. Email ward21@ottawa.ca to book an appointment.