Ottawa Mayor Bob Chiarelli seems hooked on P3s, despite their poor record and the lack of public debate in the national capital.
The latest threat of P3 is to the citys new central library. Its to be built as part of a massive commercial and residential complex. Part of a planned light rail transit expansion, the Bayview complex is seen as a major investment in the citys urban development outside the downtown core.
Mayor Bob Chiarelli said the project is still in the “concept” stage, according to recent media reports. But he says it would fit with the National Capital Commissions plans for the area, and would make a new central library easy to get to for people from all over the city.
The citys 2003 budget urged that P3 opportunitiesbe identified and investigated in both the City’s capital and operating budgets. Other facilities being considered include recreation facilities, a long-term care centre and a new emergency medical services centre. P3s are also being considered for other municipal service areas, including transportation.
The city houses its pro-P3 secretariat in the office of the Strategic Delivery Unit. The secretariat reports directly to city manager Kent Kirkpatrick.