Maple News Wire: Latest News on Elections, Celebrities, Politics, Finance, Travel, and Food in Canadian Cities

Vancouver Mayor, Councillors Broke Rules in Private Meetings

August 27, 2025

A report finds Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim and ABC councillors breached rules by privately planning council votes, sparking concerns over transparency.

Integrity Commissioner’s Findings

Vancouver’s integrity commissioner has concluded that Mayor Ken Sim and seven ABC Vancouver councillors violated city rules by privately discussing council matters. The ruling, issued by commissioner Lisa Southern on August 22, stems from a complaint filed last summer by Green Coun. Pete Fry.

Details of the Violation

Southern’s investigation determined that Sim, along with councillors Sarah Kirby-Yung, Lisa Dominato, Lenny Zhou, Brian Montague, Mike Klassen, Peter Meiszner and Rebecca Bligh, breached the Vancouver Charter. The group privately planned votes and amendments on two key issues: funding for a new turf field at Moberly Park and a climate justice charter, which was later rejected.

Rules on Municipal Transparency

While political caucuses are allowed in British Columbia, city rules prohibit councillors from meeting privately in ways that materially advance council business. Southern emphasized that such discussions must take place in open meetings, allowing the public to witness decision-making. She warned that private planning undermines trust in local democracy.

Impact on Public Trust

The report notes that when elected officials move policy forward in private, the public loses opportunities for participation and oversight. “They are depriving the public of participation in the policy development and decision-making processes that serve to build public trust and confidence in local government,” Southern wrote.

Responses from Councillors

Coun. Pete Fry, who initiated the complaint, said the findings highlight the need for greater openness at city hall. “It’s quite clear that there have been decisions made behind closed doors without the oversight of the public, other councillors, or staff,” he said.

Mayor Ken Sim pushed back, calling the matter “politicized” and dismissing the complaint as technical. “Of course we talk about politics and items affecting our city — we’re a team,” Sim said, adding that voters gave ABC Vancouver a strong mandate to lead.

Next Steps

The integrity commissioner’s report does not carry penalties but reinforces that councillors must respect the Vancouver Charter’s transparency requirements. The ruling is expected to renew debate over the balance between political teamwork and the need for open governance at city hall.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

SpaceX Starship Test Flight Delivers Breakthrough

Education-Technology

Henry

August 27, 2025

SpaceX Starship Test Flight Delivers Breakthrough

SpaceX Starship Test Flight: Milestone Achieved

SpaceX has silenced critics with a successful Starship test flight, demonstrating the rocket’s potential for future space launches. After a series of fiery failures, the 403-foot (123-meter) rocket soared into the Texas sky, showcasing engineering resilience and Musk’s ambition for interplanetary travel.

Launch Overview and Key Highlights

The Starship megarocket lifted off from SpaceX’s Starbase in southern Texas at 6:30 pm local time (2330 GMT). Engineers and spectators cheered as the first-stage Super Heavy booster splashed down safely in the Gulf of Mexico, producing a thunderous sonic boom.

Unlike prior flights, SpaceX did not attempt to catch the booster with tower arms, instead testing performance if an engine were to fail. The upper stage, intended to carry cargo and crew, successfully demonstrated orbital capabilities.

For the first time, eight dummy Starlink satellites were deployed flawlessly. Onboard cameras captured a robotic mechanism pushing each satellite into orbit.

Minor Setbacks During Descent

The descent was not without issues. Some heat tiles detached, and a small section of a flap burned off. SpaceX communications manager Dan Huot noted that much of this was anticipated, as the Starship was intentionally flown on a challenging trajectory with certain tiles removed.

“We’re really trying to push the Starship and test its weak points,” Huot said. Elon Musk praised the team’s performance on X, tweeting, “Great work by the SpaceX team!!”

Starship’s Mission Significance

The tenth test flight was critical, following three prior failures that ended with the upper stage exploding. Despite setbacks, SpaceX maintains its “fail fast, learn fast” philosophy, leveraging Falcon rockets, Dragon capsules, and Starlink to strengthen its market lead in space technology.

Musk emphasized the toughest challenge remains developing a fully reusable orbital heat shield. Unlike the Space Shuttle, which required nine months of refurbishment between flights, Starship aims for rapid turnaround.

Another critical milestone is proving in-orbit refueling with super-cooled propellant, a necessary step for deep-space missions, including Mars and NASA’s 2027 lunar lander program.

With this successful test, SpaceX is closer to realizing Musk’s vision of interplanetary travel. The next steps include refining the heat shield, testing orbital refueling, and preparing Starship for NASA lunar missions and an uncrewed Mars voyage next year.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for live updates on SpaceX Starship and future space launch milestones.

Women’s Sports Leagues Surge as Fans and Investors Rally

Sports

Avery

August 27, 2025

Women’s Sports Leagues Surge as Fans and Investors Rally

New U.S. women’s pro leagues like WPBL and Unrivaled are thriving as fans, investors, and streaming deals fuel record growth in women’s sports.

Women’s Sports Leagues Gain Momentum Across North America

Rising popularity sparks new ventures

Women’s professional sports are experiencing unprecedented growth across the United States, with new leagues emerging in basketball, hockey, volleyball, soccer, and soon, baseball. The Women’s Professional Baseball League (WPBL), launching next year, will mark the first pro women’s baseball league in 70 years. Its creation follows the rapid success of other ventures like Unrivaled, a fast-paced 3-on-3 basketball league co-founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart.

Why this movement is taking off now

Analysts attribute the surge to record-breaking attendance, lucrative sponsorships, and streaming deals that bring women’s sports directly to fans. “Women’s sports can be good business,” said Risa Isard, director of research and insights at Parity, a women’s sports marketing platform. Leagues like the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) and the Northern Super League in Canada have reported significant year-over-year attendance growth, demonstrating the increasing appetite for female-driven athletics.

Investors betting on female athletes

Private equity groups and high-profile athletes are investing millions in these startups. League One Volleyball (LOVB), for example, secured more than $100 million in funding from backers including NBA star Kevin Durant and Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn. This financial momentum allows leagues to offer competitive salaries, with Unrivaled averaging $200,000 USD per player in its debut season—an industry record for women’s sports.

Building fan communities beyond the arena

To sustain growth, leagues are focusing on branding, social media, and grassroots community engagement. The PWHL’s “Takeover Tour” brought games to non-traditional markets, while Unrivaled centralized all matches in a custom Miami arena to build a dedicated fan base. Analysts emphasize that visibility alone isn’t enough—direct fan engagement and athlete-focused policies such as housing, childcare, and healthcare benefits are key to long-term loyalty.

Canada’s role in the sports revolution

Canadian cities are also benefiting from the surge. The Northern Super League launched earlier this year with franchises in Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, Ottawa, Montreal, and Halifax. Opening-week matches at B.C. Place and Toronto’s BMO Field drew more than 14,000 fans each, signaling a strong foundation for growth. Kevin Blue, CEO of Canada Soccer, noted that the league will “accelerate Canada’s leadership in global women’s football.”

What’s next for women’s sports

As new leagues enter an already crowded sports marketplace, sustainability will depend on audience retention and consistent sponsorship deals. But with streaming services lowering barriers, investors pouring in, and fans showing up in record numbers, experts believe women’s sports are not just having a moment—they’re cementing a movement.

White Rock’s New Splash Pad Opens with Community Cheers

James

August 27, 2025

White Rock’s New Splash Pad Opens with Community Cheers

White Rock celebrates the opening of its Generations Playground Splash Pad at Centennial Park, with families, officials, and donors marking the occasion.

Community Gathers for a Fresh Addition

White Rock’s Generations Playground Splash Pad officially opened at Centennial Park on August 21, drawing more than 60 attendees, including local families, officials, and community partners. The debut highlighted the city’s efforts to create more inclusive recreational spaces for residents of all ages.

City Leaders and Partners Present

Mayor Megan Knight, members of White Rock City Council, and representatives from the White Rock Firefighters Charity Association, the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation, and GPM Civil Contracting joined the event. Their presence underscored the collaborative effort behind the project, which relied on both municipal and community contributions.

Children Lead the Celebration

The splash pad’s success was most visible when children from White Rock’s Summer Camp tested the new features, delighting in the sprays and dumping buckets. Even Fire Chief Brad Davie joined in the fun, stepping under the soaker bucket to mark the occasion in a memorable way.

Key Donors Recognized

During the opening ceremony, Peace Arch Hospital Foundation CEO Stephanie Beck announced that $100,000 from the Denis and Yvonne Blakely Trust had been directed toward the project. The White Rock Firefighters Charity Association also contributed $119,500 in recognition of longtime community supporter Myra Merkal, a gesture warmly received by attendees.

Project Delivered Ahead of Schedule

GPM Civil Contracting, the firm behind construction, was recognized for completing the project ahead of schedule. Their work helped ensure the splash pad was ready in time for summer use, giving families an immediate new place to gather and enjoy.

Why the Splash Pad Matters

The Generations Playground Splash Pad represents a significant investment in community recreation and family wellness. City officials emphasized that the feature provides an accessible, safe, and engaging environment for children while enhancing Centennial Park as a destination for residents and visitors alike.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Dangerous wildfire hampers damage checks in Nova Scotia

James

August 27, 2025

Dangerous wildfire hampers damage checks in Nova Scotia

Officials say volatile conditions are preventing crews from assessing wildfire damage in Annapolis County, as evacuations and firefighting efforts continue.

Dangerous Conditions Halt Fire Damage Assessments in N.S.

Fire forces evacuations in Annapolis County

Nova Scotia officials say volatile conditions are preventing crews from determining how many homes have been destroyed in the out-of-control Long Lake wildfire. The blaze, burning in Annapolis County, forced expanded evacuation orders over the weekend, displacing more than 1,000 residents. Premier Tim Houston confirmed Monday that some homes were lost, but the extent of the damage remains unclear.

Conditions remain unsafe for crews

Andrew Mitton, director of regional operations for the province’s Emergency Management Office, told reporters Tuesday that fire zones remain too hazardous for proper assessments. “That north side of the fire, it’s still really hot and smoky and a lot of dangerous trees,” he said, noting that clearance from the Department of Natural Resources is needed before assessments can begin.

Homeowners awaiting confirmation

The Municipality of the County of Annapolis said about 500 civic addresses in the West Dalhousie area remain evacuated. Officials have begun contacting homeowners directly about possible property loss and are working with affected residents to support insurance claims. Some families have already received confirmation of partial damage, while others wait anxiously for news.

Scale of wildfire and rain impact

The Long Lake fire, first reported August 13, has grown to roughly 8,026 hectares—about 80 square kilometres. While rainfall earlier this week offered temporary relief, Natural Resources officials said it was not enough to lift fire restrictions or significantly slow the blaze. “This is going to be a long incident,” said Jim Rudderham, director of fleet and forest protection.

Reinforcements and resources on the ground

Additional firefighting crews and an incident management team are expected to arrive Wednesday to provide relief for exhausted crews. As of Tuesday, 62 firefighters from Ontario, 56 provincial Natural Resources staff, 54 volunteer firefighters, and more than 30 pieces of heavy equipment were working to contain the fire.

Community support for evacuees

Amid the crisis, local residents and organizations have rallied to support displaced families. Jason Burton, among the first evacuated, expressed relief after learning his home survived, though an outbuilding was damaged. “I’m glad we are all safe and the house is still standing,” he said. Community aid, including meals, gift cards, and donations, has helped ease uncertainty. The Salvation Army reported thousands of dollars in donated goods and gift cards have already been distributed to evacuees.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Rising Star: Jayden Hibbert Joins Canada Soccer Squad

Sports

Avery

August 27, 2025

Rising Star: Jayden Hibbert Joins Canada Soccer Squad

Atlanta United goalkeeper Jayden Hibbert has been called up by Canada for September friendlies against Romania and Wales, adding depth to the roster.

Jayden Hibbert Earns First Canada Call-Up for September Friendlies

A new face in goal for Canada

Canada’s men’s soccer team has added a fresh talent to its roster, with Atlanta United goalkeeper Jayden Hibbert joining the squad for September’s international friendlies. The 21-year-old, born in New Jersey to a Canadian mother from Mississauga and a Jamaican father, will be available when Canada faces Romania on Sept. 5 in Bucharest and Wales on Sept. 9 in Swansea.

Why Hibbert is a key addition

Head coach Jesse Marsch described Hibbert as a player with “something very unique and big,” signaling the potential he brings to the national setup. Although Hibbert previously represented Jamaica in friendlies, FIFA rules allow him to switch allegiance, leaving his international future officially undecided.

Competition for Canada’s No. 1 spot

Canada’s goalkeeping debate remains open, with Dayne St. Clair (Minnesota United) and Maxime Crépeau (Portland Timbers) splitting starts in recent months. Marsch admitted a permanent decision on the starting role is still pending, emphasizing the need for consistency ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

How Hibbert reached the top level

Drafted 19th overall in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft, Hibbert developed at the University of Connecticut before making his professional debut with Atlanta United. He recently earned his first MLS clean sheet in a 0-0 draw against Toronto FC, showcasing the shot-stopping skills that earned him national team attention.

What this means for Canada’s campaign

Canada enters the September window looking to build momentum after a tough Gold Cup quarterfinal exit to Guatemala in June. The friendlies also mark rare opportunities against European competition, as Canada has not defeated a European team on the continent since 2011.

The road ahead for Hibbert and the squad

For Hibbert, this call-up represents a chance to establish himself in Canada’s long-term plans. With veterans like Alphonso Davies, Alistair Johnston, and Sam Adekugbe sidelined by injuries, Marsch is relying on young talents to step up. Canada’s schedule continues with matches against Australia (Oct. 10, Montreal) and Colombia (Oct. 14, New Jersey), providing Hibbert with more chances to prove his worth.

London Council Rejects Park Naturalization After 13 Years

James

August 27, 2025

London city council ends a 13-year plan to naturalize Attawandaron Park after neighbour backlash over backyard space and accessibility concerns.

London Council Rejects Park Naturalization After 13 Years

Long-debated park plan voted down

London city councillors voted 10–5 on Tuesday to reject a proposal that would have added an accessible trail through Attawandaron Park, halting over a decade of study and planning. The northwest London park, located between Wonderland Road and Medway Creek, was slated for naturalization with paved or gravel paths.

Residents push back over backyard access

Neighbours bordering the park led opposition, saying the plan would reduce their backyard space due to shifting property lines. Many argued they had long enjoyed open access to the green field and feared losing parts of their lots if the trail was built.

Accessibility advocates raise concerns

The city’s accessibility advisory committee urged council to proceed, arguing the trail would improve inclusion for people with disabilities and protect sensitive ecological areas by directing foot traffic. Ward 6 Coun. Sam Trosow supported the plan, citing legal obligations under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

Divided views at city hall

Deputy Mayor Shawn Lewis dismissed claims the decision undermined accessibility, noting alternative accessible trails exist in the park’s northern section. Coun. Corrine Rahman, who opposed the trail, suggested instead enhancing the park for passive recreation, such as outdoor movies and community gatherings.

Land ownership questions remain

Council also directed staff to review property boundaries after concerns emerged that private owners had encroached on municipal land near the park. Some councillors warned that failing to address the issue could set a precedent for future disputes.

What comes next

City staff will now explore options for maintaining Attawandaron Park as open greenspace, while also assessing recreational opportunities that do not impact neighbouring properties. A follow-up report on encroachment and usage options is expected later this year.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Windsor boaters rescue family after canoe capsizes

James

August 27, 2025

A Windsor family of three was saved after their canoe capsized in rough waters near Peche Island. Quick-thinking boaters prevented a potential tragedy.

Windsor Boaters Rescue Family After Canoe Capsizes

A quick response on Lake St. Clair

A family outing nearly turned tragic Monday afternoon when a canoe capsized in high winds near Peche Island, just off Windsor. Thanks to the swift action of two local boaters, all three family members—a man, his wife, and their eight-year-old daughter—were safely rescued.

How the incident unfolded

Witnesses say winds of 25 to 30 knots battered the canoe as it attempted to return to shore between Peche Island and Lakeview Park Marina. Experienced sailor Len Strahl, who was nearby, spotted the canoe flipping after being struck by large waves. Despite the family wearing life jackets, the strong current quickly began separating them.

Rescue on the water

Strahl, assisted by boat mechanic Jason Foster, maneuvered his motorboat to reach the struggling family. Together, they pulled the three onto the vessel before Windsor police arrived. “I’m just really pleased that we got to them. They’re safe, and I think they’ve learned a few lessons,” Foster said.

Police and Coast Guard response

Windsor police confirmed their marine unit responded to the emergency but arrived after the rescue was completed. The Canadian Coastal Services (CCS) commended the quick action, noting that the coast guard launched a response following a “mayday relay” broadcast. “Yesterday showed how effective it can be when everyone works together to keep each other safe,” CCS spokesperson Glenn Swinton said.

Safety concerns raised

Experts caution that the Detroit River and Lake St. Clair are hazardous for novice canoeists. Dennis Marentette, president of the Windsor-Essex County Canoe Club, urged beginners to stick to calmer waters like Little River, Puce River, or Canard River. Strahl echoed the warning: “This is a bad spot for canoes. Everyone makes mistakes. Yesterday was a mistake, but thankfully it ended safely.”

Community cooperation praised

No injuries were reported, and no medical assistance was required. Authorities and boating officials praised the community’s vigilance, emphasizing the importance of quick action and local cooperation in preventing tragedy on the water.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Abbotsford Police Face Public Hearing Over Taser Use

James

August 27, 2025

Abbotsford Police Face Public Hearing Over Taser Use

A public hearing has been ordered after Abbotsford police used a Taser, pepper spray, and force on an unhoused Indigenous man in January 2024.

Watchdog Orders Public Hearing

The Office of the Police Complaint Commissioner (OPCC) has ordered a public hearing into the actions of two Abbotsford police officers accused of using “substantial force” during the arrest of an unhoused Indigenous man in January 2024.

Details of the Arrest

According to the OPCC, Const. John Leivdal and Const. Meghan Hamel stopped the man for jaywalking on Jan. 23, 2024, near shelters and outreach services in Abbotsford. The man, who was carrying a shopping cart and a large stick, allegedly refused to comply when asked to drop the stick. He reportedly told officers he feared they would kill him.

Escalation of Force

Investigators say officers deployed pepper spray, drew a firearm, and delivered multiple punches and kicks before using a Taser twice. The man attempted to flee and struck an officer’s shoulder but was subdued after further force. He sustained head and facial injuries requiring hospitalization. Portions of the incident were captured on CCTV.

Commissioner’s Concerns

Police Complaint Commissioner Prabhu Rajan said the use of force escalated too quickly given that the initial stop was for a minor traffic offence. “To preserve public confidence in policing, there needs to be a full accounting of why substantial force was used instead of de-escalation,” Rajan said. He added the case highlights ongoing concerns over police treatment of Indigenous Peoples.

Public Hearing Process

The hearing will be led by retired judge David Pendleton, who will hear witness testimony and determine whether misconduct occurred. The process, introduced under updated provincial legislation, is intended to provide more timely oversight of police discipline matters. A date for the hearing has not yet been announced.

Response From Abbotsford Police

The Abbotsford Police Department (AbbyPD) confirmed it was notified of the hearing but said the officers’ operational status remains unchanged. A spokesperson stated the department would not provide further comment while the matter is before the OPCC.

Legal Outcome for the Man Involved

The OPCC noted the man was criminally charged following the arrest, but the B.C. Prosecution Service later stayed those charges. The public hearing will also examine whether the man himself can be located to give evidence, with investigators stressing a trauma-informed approach.

Broader Implications

The case has sparked wider debate on police use of force in B.C., particularly regarding interactions with vulnerable and Indigenous communities. Rajan said the hearing aims not only to review officer conduct but also to provide lessons on crisis intervention and de-escalation practices.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Canadian Stars Shine in U.S. Open First-Round Wins

Sports

Avery

August 27, 2025

Canadian Stars Shine in U.S. Open First-Round Wins

Denis Shapovalov and Felix Auger-Aliassime cruise into the U.S. Open second round with straight-set wins, joining Canada’s Gabriel Diallo.

Canadians Advance at Flushing Meadows

Canadian tennis standouts Denis Shapovalov and Felix Auger-Aliassime powered into the second round of the U.S. Open on Tuesday, both securing straight-set victories. They join fellow Canadian Gabriel Diallo, who advanced a day earlier, making it a perfect start for Canada’s seeded players in New York.

Strong Performances in Opening Matches

Shapovalov, seeded 27th, dominated Hungary’s Márton Fucsovics with a 6-4, 6-4, 6-0 win. The Richmond Hill, Ontario native improved his career record against Fucsovics to 3–2 and will next face French wild card Valentin Royer. Montreal’s Auger-Aliassime, seeded 25th, overcame British qualifier Billy Harris 6-4, 7-6 (8), 6-4, relying on a powerful serve to escape a tight second set.

Tournament Setting and Schedule

The first round of the Grand Slam tournament is being held at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York. Shapovalov is scheduled to return to court Thursday, while Auger-Aliassime awaits the winner of the match between veteran Gaël Monfils of France and Russia’s Roman Safiullin.

Why These Wins Matter

For Shapovalov, who last reached a Grand Slam quarterfinal in 2020, the victory reinforces his confidence after recent injury setbacks. Auger-Aliassime, a semifinalist at the 2021 U.S. Open, is seeking his deepest run in a major since that breakthrough season. Their wins signal that Canadian men’s tennis remains competitive on the world stage.

Fan Energy and On-Court Atmosphere

The atmosphere in New York added to the drama. Chants of “Let’s go, Shapo!” rang out on Court 17, fueling Shapovalov’s commanding finish. Auger-Aliassime, meanwhile, relied on composure in front of a packed crowd, producing 10 aces and winning 74% of first-serve points to seal the match.

What Comes Next for Canada

With three seeded Canadians through to the second round, national attention now turns to whether Shapovalov, Auger-Aliassime, and Diallo can push deeper into the tournament. Their progress not only boosts Canadian tennis prestige but also keeps alive hopes for a historic U.S. Open run.

Alberta Teachers Strike Looms: What Parents and Staff Must Know

Canadian Cities

Henry

August 27, 2025

Alberta Teachers Strike Looms: What Parents and Staff Must Know

Alberta Teachers Strike and Lockout: Key Facts

As Alberta teachers negotiate wage increases and classroom supports, a potential teachers strike looms across the province. With the previous agreement expired on August 31, 2024, tensions are high. Families, staff, and students are preparing for disruptions, while the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) and the Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association (TEBA) continue talks.

What Teachers Are Demanding

Over the last 12 years, teachers have received only a six per cent wage increase. However, their concerns go beyond salary. Rising class sizes and increasing student complexity are major challenges.

A recent survey revealed 69 per cent of teachers reported larger class sizes, with 40 per cent teaching more than 30 students. Around 90 per cent of educators noted heightened complexity in student needs, and 58 per cent observed declining support for special needs students.

The ATA seeks stronger supports, classroom resources, and a fairer wage grid in the new collective agreement.

Province’s Offer and Negotiation Challenges

Earlier this year, a mediator proposed a 12 per cent general wage increase over four years. The deal included over $400 million for classroom improvements and a process to address classroom complexity.

Teachers, however, rejected the proposal, with 62 per cent voting against it. The ATA originally requested $11.35 billion in the provincial budget, while the 2025 allocation earmarked $9.9 billion, providing just $3.57 per student daily, compared with the $10 national average.

Minister of Treasury Board and Finance Nate Horner expressed optimism that both sides will reach a “fair and reasonable settlement.”

How a Teachers Strike or Lockout Could Play Out

If negotiations stall, Alberta could see rotating teachers strikes. These strikes may target specific times, including lunch supervision, recess, before- and after-school programs, or extracurricular activities. Full school days could also be affected, rotating across different school boards. Teachers must give a 72-hour notice before striking, allowing families time to plan childcare.

Conversely, TEBA could initiate a lockout, restricting teachers from working to pressure the ATA into agreement. This could involve securing school facilities and altering access until a deal is reached. TEBA plans a vote on a potential lockout on Friday.

Preparing for Potential Disruptions

Families and students should stay informed about notices from the ATA and school boards. With both strike and lockout possibilities, contingency planning for childcare and school schedules is advised.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for real-time updates on Alberta teachers’ negotiations and school impacts.

OC Transpo Faces $47M Deficit Amid Budget Shortfalls

James

August 27, 2025

OC Transpo projects a $46.6M deficit in 2025 as ridership lags, revenues fall, and federal rescue hopes fade, sparking calls for realistic budgeting.

OC Transpo Faces $47M Deficit Amid Budget Shortfalls

Deficit Widening in 2025

Ottawa’s transit system, OC Transpo, is forecasting a $46.6-million deficit this fiscal year, according to the city’s second-quarter financial results. The shortfall, built on lower-than-expected ridership and missing provincial and federal support, has already reached $6.6 million in the year’s first half.

Falling Ridership and Revenue

The transit system recorded about 30 million trips in the first five months of 2025, just 72 per cent of pre-pandemic levels. The city’s budget assumed an 80 per cent recovery, a target that critics now say was overly optimistic. Fare revenues alone came in $3.8 million below budget, while additional costs from Para Transpo and sick leave changes added further strain.

Unrealistic Assumptions Criticized

River Ward Councillor Riley Brockington, who questioned budget assumptions last year, said the report confirms his concerns. “We just really are not receiving estimates from our senior transit staff that are based in reality,” he said. Ottawa Transit Riders’ Kari Glynes Elliott echoed the criticism, comparing the city’s planning to “making a household budget expecting to win the lottery.”

Federal and Provincial Support Absent

When council passed the 2025 budget, it relied on a $36-million “placeholder” in anticipation of higher-level government support. That funding has yet to arrive, creating a significant revenue gap. Combined with fare shortfalls, the loss totals $51.8 million, only partially offset by $5.2 million in savings from project delays, such as the postponed O-Train extension to Orléans.

Councillors Brace for Tough Decisions

In April, council approved using $36 million from reserves to cover the missing support. But councillors warn this is only a temporary fix. Beacon Hill-Cyrville Councillor Tim Tierney said the city faces “tough decisions” heading into the 2026 budget cycle. Mayor Mark Sutcliffe has floated options such as operational efficiencies and fare increases as high as 7.5 per cent.

Concerns Over Transit Future

Elliott argued that fare hikes could deepen what she called a “transit death spiral,” making the system less attractive and further eroding ridership. Brockington, however, expressed cautious optimism. “I think this is the year that we’ve actually hit rock bottom,” he said, urging council to focus on reliability and service improvements to restore public trust in Ottawa’s transit system.

DowntownMagazine PRO

Integrity Commissioner’s Findings

Details of the Violation

Rules on Municipal Transparency

Impact on Public Trust

Responses from Councillors

Next Steps

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

SpaceX Starship Test Flight: Milestone Achieved

Launch Overview and Key Highlights

Minor Setbacks During Descent

Starship’s Mission Significance

Women’s Sports Leagues Gain Momentum Across North America

Rising popularity sparks new ventures

Why this movement is taking off now

Investors betting on female athletes

Building fan communities beyond the arena

Canada’s role in the sports revolution

What’s next for women’s sports

Community Gathers for a Fresh Addition

City Leaders and Partners Present

Children Lead the Celebration

Key Donors Recognized

Project Delivered Ahead of Schedule

Why the Splash Pad Matters

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Dangerous Conditions Halt Fire Damage Assessments in N.S.

Fire forces evacuations in Annapolis County

Conditions remain unsafe for crews

Homeowners awaiting confirmation

Scale of wildfire and rain impact

Reinforcements and resources on the ground

Community support for evacuees

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Jayden Hibbert Earns First Canada Call-Up for September Friendlies

A new face in goal for Canada

Why Hibbert is a key addition

Competition for Canada’s No. 1 spot

How Hibbert reached the top level

What this means for Canada’s campaign

The road ahead for Hibbert and the squad

London Council Rejects Park Naturalization After 13 Years

Long-debated park plan voted down

Residents push back over backyard access

Accessibility advocates raise concerns

Divided views at city hall

Land ownership questions remain

What comes next

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Windsor Boaters Rescue Family After Canoe Capsizes

A quick response on Lake St. Clair

How the incident unfolded

Rescue on the water

Police and Coast Guard response

Safety concerns raised

Community cooperation praised

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Watchdog Orders Public Hearing