Ottawa churches may get heritage status, but the Archdiocese warns of high costs and delays. Final decision expected at city council on May 28.
Ottawa Churches Push Back on Proposed Heritage Designation
Two historic Ottawa churches could soon be granted heritage designation, but not everyone is celebrating. The Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall is voicing concerns that such a move would impose costly obligations and bureaucratic hurdles without offering meaningful support in return.
Saint-François-d’Assise in Hintonburg and Saint-Joseph d’Orléans in Orléans are under consideration for protection under the Ontario Heritage Act, following a recommendation last Tuesday from the city’s built heritage committee.
“Jesus Wouldn’t Support This,” Archdiocese Claims
The proposed designation has sparked concern within the church. Richard Pommainville, chief administrative officer for the Archdiocese, questioned whether the move supports the church’s mission.
“If Jesus were to be here right now, I don’t think he’d be in support of a designation,” said Pommainville. “How does this assist the mission of the church, which is to bring the word of God?”
Community Value vs Financial Reality
For many Hintonburg residents, the designation is about preserving local heritage. Brian Innes, president of the Hintonburg Community Association (HCA), said Saint-François-d’Assise is a cornerstone of the neighbourhood’s history.
Built in 1914-15, the church replaced a smaller building to serve the growing population. Its five French-cast bells and iconic statues contribute to the architectural charm that locals want to protect.
“Everything else is being torn down,” Innes said. “This church is right at the centre of our history.”
However, Pommainville warned that preservation comes at a steep cost. The stained glass windows were recently repaired with the help of a small grant, but more major repairs are looming — including a potential $500,000 roof replacement.
Heritage Designation Brings Red Tape, Not Relief
While the Ontario Heritage Act protects buildings from demolition and improper modification, it doesn’t guarantee financial assistance. Any alterations must go through a city approval process, adding more red tape to the church’s internal maintenance system.
Pommainville pointed to France’s model of funding historical sites regardless of ownership. “If we want to protect our heritage, we have to invest in it,” he said.
The situation is similar for Saint-Joseph d’Orléans, which was completed in 1922. The church also faces preservation concerns, and Pommainville noted that a designation there could interfere with cemetery operations on the site.
Public Wants the Building, Not the Bill
Despite local support for preserving the churches, Pommainville questioned the public’s willingness to help pay for upkeep.
“They want the building, but they don’t want the responsibility that goes with it,” he said. “Would people donate $100 or $1,000 to fix the roof? I’m not sure.”
Final Decision Rests with City Council
City council will make the final decision on whether the churches receive heritage designation at its next meeting on May 28. Until then, the debate continues between those who want to protect Ottawa’s architectural legacy and those who fear being burdened by it.
