Posted on January 23, 2013 

Today, I delivered the 2013 State of the City address at City Council.

This was a chance to reflect on where we have been and where we are going. It is clear that we have much to be proud of and much to look forward to.

2012 was a year of making decisions, and 2013 will be a year of action.

Budget 2013: Brought in the lowest tax rate in seven years – lower than most major Canadian cities. This year we will continue the freeze on recreation fees and make important investments in community services and basic infrastructure

Arts and culture: I have agreed to lend my name to the Mayor’s Gala for the Arts, to benefit the future redevelopment of Arts Court, this November. I will also host an Art Expo at City Hall later this year for our artists to showcase their talents and promote upcoming seasons.

Rural affairs: I look forward to hosting a Rural Fair at City Hall this year, which will provide an opportunity for our rural residents to promote fairs, museums, agriculture and crafts to our urban population.

Lansdowne: Construction will continue this year as we start work on key features like the urban park, skating rink and new stadium. We’re working hard to keep the project on budget and on schedule – ready for CFL football and pro soccer in 2014.

Light Rail Transit: Shovels in the ground this year – finally! Work will begin in a few weeks with the widening of the Queensway (to fix the Split).

Ottawa on the Move: We will continue our $340-million infrastructure program to get our roads, sidewalks and pipes up to par.

A green city: We work to secure provincial and federal funding to clean up the Ottawa River, while cleaning up our streets through a renewed focus on recycling

Big events: We will host the International Women’s World Hockey Championships in April, the Canadian Gymnastic Championships in May, and many more. We’re building momentum and showcasing our city leading up to the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017.

Recreation facilities: Opening a new indoor pool in Orleans and a new recreation complex in Kanata North. We will start construction on the Barrhaven Recreation Centre and break ground on three new ice pads at Sensplex East.

These are just a few examples of some of the exciting things happening in 2013. To read the full speech, please visit my website.

In 2013, we will continue to be fiercely proud of our city and unwavering in our commitment to make it even better.

I wish you and your family a happy and healthy 2013.

Jim Watson
Mayor

Our email address is: Jim.Watson@ottawa.ca

Source: Received email:
To: CPCA executive
From: Jim.Watson@ottawa.ca
Date: Wed, 23 Jan 2013 16:45:03
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