The Chair welcomed members back from the summer break and congratulated Dr. Trevor Arnason on his official appointment as Medical Officer of Health. The Chair acknowledged Ottawa Public Health staff for their work over the summer, including emergency response and public health initiatives, and noted that presentations from key programs would follow.
The Chair also provided an update on the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) conference, where meetings were held with provincial ministers and party caucuses to discuss Ottawa Public Health’s funding challenges and the need for increased provincial support. Concerns were raised about the growing gap between City and provincial contributions, with current provincial funding covering only 58% of OPH’s cost-shared budget, despite a 75% target.
The Chair discussed the Healthy@Home proposal; a $2 million pilot aimed at supporting vulnerable Ottawa Community Housing tenants with health and housing services. The proposal was revised following feedback from the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing and continues to be a priority for OPH and its partners.
Looking ahead to the 2026 budget season, the Chair referenced the Mayor’s proposed 3.75% property tax increase, with 2.9% allocated to most city services, including OPH. The Chair encouraged Board members to engage in upcoming budget discussions, noting the importance of planning for the future as the Board’s term concludes. The report ended with appreciation for the ongoing support from community and government partners and an invitation for questions.
Discussion lasted approximately 9 minutes.