Old Ottawa East is facing a crisis, as residents of 441-443 Echo Drive are under threat of demoviction by JB Holdings Inc. This isn't just about buildings; it's about people's lives, homes, and well-being. Many of us, including seniors who have called this place home for over 25 years, are at risk of being displaced. The prospect of being forced out of a place we've grown to love is devastating.

Demovictions, the process where tenants are forced to leave so landlords can demolish and redevelop properties, are becoming far too common across Ontario and Ottawa, especially since Doug Ford's government removed rent control from new buildings built after 2018. 

We cannot stand by and let them destroy our communities and take away our homes. This proposed development will destroy this pedestrian-friendly section of Echo Drive, and replace it with a giant eyesore, blocking the view of the Rideau Canal for other residents. It will also create congestion, with 52 units and 3 storeys of underground parking, removing the safe streets where our children play. 

 
The current building, which is affordable, will be replaced by a high-rent luxury apartment or condo building. Ottawa needs more affordable housing - we do not need more demovictions. Instead, we need sustainable and appropriate development that is rent-controlled and affordable, responsible and respectful to the surrounding communities.

ANTI- RENOVICTION/DEMOVICTION BYLAW NOW!

We demand that the City of Ottawa introduce a strong anti-renoviction and anti-demoviction bylaw that protects tenants' rights and community rights. Such a bylaw would prevent landlords from tearing down affordable housing and displacing residents to build expensive buildings that drive up rents. It would secure housing stability and maintain the diversity and vibrancy of communities like ours.

STOP THE DEMOLITION OF 441-443 ECHO DRIVE!
As concerned residents, we call on JB Holdings to halt its demolition plans immediately and seek alternative solutions that benefit the community and address the need for more affordable housing. 

Please stand with us and speak up for those who might otherwise be silenced. Sign this petition to urge the City of Ottawa to enact protective bylaws for tenants and hold developers like JB Holdings accountable for actions that could devastate our communities. By acting now, we can prevent families, seniors, and neighbors from losing their homes and keep the heart of our neighborhoods intact. Sign now to make a difference!

Please also email the following people with this message: Mayor Mark Sutcliffe Mark.Sutcliffe@ottawa.ca , Councilor Shawn Menard capitalward@ottawa.ca, Councilor Ariel Troster Ariel.Troster@ottawa.ca, Councilor Jeff Leiper Jeff.Leiper@ottawa.ca, Councilor Theresa Kavanaugh BayWard@ottawa.ca, City Manager Wendy Stephanson wendy.stephanson@ottawa.ca