Sutcliffe Responds To Sudds’ ‘No’ To New Funds

08/11/2024

This from X by Mayor Mark Sutcliffe:

I’m grateful for my working relationship with Minister Sudds and all Ottawa-area MPs. We’re also thankful for the two areas of funding the federal government has provided to Ottawa this year, for affordable housing and new arrivals. However, neither that funding nor the Minister’s statement responds to the unique and specific issues that I raised in my appeal for help on Thursday.

As I explained in a detailed briefing to Liberal MPs one week before my public announcement, the federal government has been underpaying its property taxes to Ottawa, shifting an increasing burden to local taxpayers. In 2024, that shortfall is $95 million.

I agree there is only one taxpayer. That’s precisely why federal buildings should not pay less than their fair share for municipal services, forcing local taxpayers to make up the difference. Also, the federal government has an obligation as the largest employer and property owner in our city to support a public transit system that was built to serve its employees.

I will continue to advocate on behalf of Ottawa residents until the federal government meets its obligations and stops unfairly burdening Ottawa residents, and our city receives our fair share of federal funding.

This X post is courtesy of the city-wide community group Your Applewood Acres (And Beyond) Neighbours