Before You Vote is a special series of stories investigating what voters under 30 need to know before they cast ballots in Ottawa’s Oct. 24 municipal election. These stories are produced by first-year students in Carleton University’s Master of Journalism program.
Ottawa votes: A changing city, a new council
Leading up to the election, candidates for city council discuss the importance of diversity in municipal politics.
Nurses urge future mayors to support decriminalizing drugs for personal use
The Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario is urging mayoral candidates to support decriminalizing possession of small amounts of drugs.
OC Transpo failing young workers outside the city’s core, some residents say
Young voters say they want to see a transit system that better prioritizes them and their non-traditional commutes.
Young campaigners in municipal election ‘step up’ for change
Young volunteers get out on the Ottawa municipal election campaign trail.
Solving transit accessibility needed to progress how people commute in Ottawa
Heading into Monday’s municipal election, some candidates say improving people's ability to get to transit is key.
Ward 18 candidates hope to preserve Alta Vista’s tree canopy, bungalows despite housing needs
Zoning and preserving the “unique characteristic” of the neighbourhood came up frequently during the campaign, but candidates also recognize the need to diversify housing options.
Stay in your lane – young voters weigh in on bike lanes
Bike lanes have become a key talking point in this year's election, especially for some young adults.
Lifeguard shortages demonstrate importance of recreational services to families
Pools are cancelling some time slots due to the lack of lifeguards. This means registering for the remaining classes has become an online battle for parents.
Ottawa doesn’t have to be boring, residents say
Coming out of the pandemic, some say the election is an opportunity for city council to change Ottawa’s nightlife for the better by supporting the economy, local businesses and community morale.
Climate change and public transit top of mind for many young Ottawa voters
Some young voters say that climate change will be a priority for them when casting their ballot in Monday’s municipal election.
Soaring apartment rents an election issue for young voters in Ottawa
Apartment rents in downtown Ottawa are at their highest in history and with the municipal election looming, renters are feeling the pinch and looking for answers.