Ottawa Daily News: January 20, 2026

Last Updated: January 20, 2026 at 6:15 AM ET

New federal tax adjustments take effect alongside impending public service reductions, while Ottawa residents brace for a sharp drop in temperatures tonight. Plus, a world-class orchestral performance takes center stage at the NAC.

Ottawa wakes up to a frigid Tuesday morning as the capital navigates significant policy shifts impacting both wallets and the workforce. While the thermometer dips towards -18°C overnight, the hottest topics in the city revolve around the implementation of new 2026 tax brackets and the unfolding strategy for federal public service restructuring. From the halls of Parliament to the ice of the Rideau Canal, here is everything Ottawa residents need to know today.

Key Highlights

TL;DR: Federal income tax cuts offer slight relief for lower brackets, but Ottawa property taxes are climbing 3.75%. Public servants face uncertainty with planned reductions of 40,000 positions over the next three years. Tonight, catch “Shelley, Beethoven & Korngold” at the NAC or brave the cold for a skate on the Canal.

Quick Facts	Details
📅 Date	Tuesday, January 20, 2026
🌡️ Weather	High -5°C, Low -18°C. Wind chill -26. Light flurries.
🚗 Traffic	Normal winter conditions; watch for drifting snow on Hwy 417.
💸 Economy	Fed tax bracket drop to 14%; Property tax up 3.75%.
🎉 Top Event	Shelley, Beethoven & Korngold @ NAC (7:30 PM).
🏒 Sports	Senators vs. Blue Jackets (Away, 7:00 PM).

Breaking News & Important Updates

As of 7:30 AM ET

Major Breaking Developments

Charges Laid in Violent Home Invasion Series Ottawa Police have laid new charges against a 26-year-old man in connection with a series of violent home invasions that shook the region. The investigation, which spans incidents in Vanier, Orléans, and Gloucester—including a harrowing gunpoint attempt on Black Canary Drive—has culminated in significant progress. While the initial incidents occurred previously, these recent charges mark a critical step in dismantling a multi-jurisdiction criminal operation. Police are actively seeking additional suspects linked to this ring.

Drug Trafficking Ring Dismantled In a major win for community safety, a year-long investigation has resulted in the disruption of a prolific drug trafficking network operating across Ottawa and Gatineau. Officers have arrested seven individuals and laid over 60 charges, seizing handguns, vehicles, and nearly $200,000 in cash. Three suspects remain at large, and residents are urged to report any suspicious activity to the Ottawa Police drug unit.

Public Safety

Fire & Emergency Updates Ottawa Fire Services report no major active structure fires this morning. However, with the extreme cold warnings in effect, officials remind residents to keep heating vents clear of snow and ice to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

Safety Advisory: Carbon Monoxide With the new Ontario Fire Code now in effect as of January 1, 2026, all residential buildings must have expanded carbon monoxide alarm coverage. Given today’s freeze, ensure your alarms are tested and functional.

Government & Policy Changes

As of 8:00 AM ET

Federal Tax Adjustments: What It Means for You

Starting this month, Ottawa residents will see a subtle shift in their paycheques. The federal government has adjusted the lowest income tax bracket, reducing the rate from 15% to 14%.

Impact: This change is projected to save the average Canadian taxpayer approximately $190 annually.
Timeline: Effective immediately for the 2026 tax year.

Ottawa Property Tax Hike (3.75%)

Homeowners received confirmation of the 2026 municipal budget implications this week. Property taxes in Ottawa are rising by 3.75%.

Cost Breakdown: For the average urban home, this translates to an increase of roughly $166 on the annual bill.
- City Services: ~$56
- Police Services: ~$36
- Transit Levy: ~$74
Reasoning: The hike aims to fund essential services, including the expanded transit network and emergency response improvements.

Ontario Pay Transparency Law

Job seekers in Ottawa have a new tool at their disposal. The provincial Pay Transparency Act is fully effective as of January 1, 2026.

Requirement: All employers with 25 or more employees must now include salary ranges in public job postings.
Goal: This legislation aims to close the gender wage gap and provide clearer expectations for applicants in the local job market.

Deep Dive: The Impact of Pay Transparency

The implementation of the Pay Transparency Act marks a cultural shift in Ontario’s workforce. Ottawa’s tech and government sectors are expected to be most visibly affected. By mandating salary ranges, the province hopes to eliminate the “guessing game” of negotiations that disproportionately disadvantages women and minorities. Critics, however, argue that it may lead to wage compression or increased administrative burdens for small businesses. For Ottawa job seekers, this means 2026 is the year of informed applying—no more wasting time on interviews only to find the salary doesn’t meet living costs.

Carbon Tax Update: Industrial Shift

While the consumer carbon tax was eliminated in 2025 (saving drivers approx. 17.6 cents per litre), the industrial carbon tax has quietly increased to $110 per tonne this year.

Local Impact: This hike specifically targets large emitters. In Ottawa, this affects industrial zones and potentially utility costs.
Consumer Trickle-Down: While you won’t see this on your gas receipt, businesses may pass these increased compliance costs onto consumers through slightly higher prices for manufactured goods and energy services throughout 2026.

What To Do Now (Money & Policy)

Check your latest pay stub to verify if the new federal tax rate is reflected in your deductions. Homeowners should update their monthly budget to account for the approximately $14 increase in property taxes starting this month.

Jobs & Employment

As of 8:30 AM ET

Federal Public Service: Workforce Adjustments

The landscape of Ottawa’s largest employer continues to shift. Under the directives of Budget 2025, the federal public service is proceeding with a reduction strategy targeting approximately 40,000 positions by 2028–29.

Statistics Canada Update: Specific reports indicate StatsCan plans to reduce its workforce by 850 positions over the next two years, with about 100 immediate surplus notices issued.
Mechanism: Most departures are being managed through attrition and redeployment, but “workforce adjustment” notices are becoming a reality for many departments.

Hiring Now: Job Fairs This Week

Despite the federal contractions, other sectors are actively hiring.

RCMP & Ottawa Police Service: Hosting information sessions with CERC (Jan 19-20).
Career Fair 2026: Taking place Wednesday, January 21, featuring employers from Ashrae OVC and CMAS.
Commissionaires Ottawa: An in-person hiring event is scheduled for Saturday, January 24.
VON (Victorian Order of Nurses): Holding an online job fair on January 21 and 23 for healthcare professionals.

Immigration & Newcomers

As of 9:00 AM ET

IRCC Adds 110,000 Economic Spots

In a significant update for prospective permanent residents, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed an additional 110,000 economic-class spaces effective January 6, 2026.

Express Entry Impact: This increase is expected to lower the CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) score cut-offs in upcoming draws, specifically benefiting candidates already working in Canada on temporary permits.
Focus Areas: The draws continue to prioritize French-speaking candidates and healthcare workers to meet Ontario’s specific labour needs.

Settlement Support

LINC Classes: Free language training is available at Ottawa Public Library branches. Registration is open via the IRCC portal.
Newcomer Services: The Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO) reports high demand for housing navigation services but remains open for new intakes.

Health & Wellness

As of 9:15 AM ET

Hospital Wait Times & ER Status

Ottawa’s emergency departments are seeing moderate to high volumes this morning.

Average Wait Times: Non-critical patients at The Ottawa Hospital and Queensway Carleton Hospital are facing waits of 2 to 4 hours.
Advisory: Please reserve the ER for genuine emergencies. For minor ailments, consider walk-in clinics or calling Health 811 for nurse advice.

Respiratory Virus Update

Ottawa Public Health (OPH) data indicates a mixed bag for winter viruses:

Influenza: Activity is declining nationally but remains at moderate levels in Ottawa (approx. 13.9% test positivity).
COVID-19: Activity remains low (5.8% positivity).
RSV: Cases are rising slightly, posing a risk primarily to young children and seniors.
Vaccination: Flu shots and updated COVID-19 boosters are still available at local pharmacies. OPH clinics are prioritizing pediatric appointments (Call 613-580-6744).

Understanding the RSV Surge

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is currently the primary concern for Ottawa’s pediatric wards. Unlike the flu, RSV causes bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways), which can be dangerous for infants under 6 months and the elderly.

Symptoms to Watch: Wheezing, rapid breathing, flaring nostrils, and caved-in chest while breathing.
Prevention: Frequent hand washing is the #1 defense. OPH also recommends that if you have even mild cold symptoms, you should avoid visiting grandparents or holding new babies until fully recovered. The “cocooning” strategy—vaccinating all adults around a vulnerable infant—remains highly recommended by local pediatricians.

What To Do Now (Health)

If you have a child with fever or respiratory symptoms, monitor them closely as RSV is rising. Save the ER for emergencies; use the Health 811 line if you are unsure whether to go to the hospital.

Scams & Fraud Alerts ⚠️

As of 9:30 AM ET

Phone Scam Spike: “Justice Canada” & CRA

Ottawa Police are warning residents of a resurgence in aggressive phone scams.

The Tactic: Callers posing as agents from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) or “Justice Canada” threaten immediate arrest unless payment is made via gift cards or crypto-currency.
Reality Check: Government agencies never demand immediate payment over the phone via these methods.
Grandparent Scam: Reports continue of seniors receiving calls claiming a grandchild is in jail and needs bail money. Always verify by calling your family member directly on a known number.

Online Marketplace Caution

With the post-holiday resale season active, be wary of fake e-transfer confirmations on platforms like Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace. Police recommend using designated Safe Trade Zones at local police stations for in-person transactions.

Transit & Getting Around

As of 10:00 AM ET

OC Transpo Updates

Commuters are reminded of the recent fare adjustments and schedule tweaks effective this month.

New Fares: The adult single-ride fare is now $3.80 (up from $3.60). Pre-teen e-purse fares have risen to $2.05.
Route 26 Boost: Additional trips have been added from Blair Station at 9:45 AM, 10:45 AM, 11:45 AM, and 12:50 PM to reduce overcrowding.
Route 163: Now starts at Hazeldean Road at Carp Road.

Road Closures & Conditions

Canada Post Roadway: Traffic is reduced to one lane between Brookfield and Heron Roads due to long-term maintenance. Expect delays during rush hour.
Highway 417: Eastbound traffic remains at three lanes between Island Park and Kent Street due to ongoing construction.
Winter Driving: With light snow forecast for this afternoon, watch for slick sections on on-ramps and bridges.

What To Do Now (Transit)

If you haven’t loaded your Presto card recently, check your balance to account for the $3.80 fare. Allow an extra 10-15 minutes for your commute if your route involves the Heron Road area due to the lane reduction.

Live Music Tonight: Where to Catch a Show

As of 11:00 AM ET, January 20, 2026

Live music Ottawa Manor Lounge Caption: Enjoy live tunes and interactive performances tonight in Ottawa.

The midweek music scene offers a mix of interactive fun and underground grooves.

Manor Lounge (292 Elgin Street)

Event: Dueling Pianos with Jeff Rogers and Mellow Dee
Time: 7:00 PM (Showtime)
Vibe: Interactive requests, “Wine Wednesday” specials, and a lively crowd. Happy hour follows at 9:00 PM with games.

House of Targ (1077 Bank Street)

Event: DJ The Full Time Groove
Time: Doors open at 5:00 PM
Price: Free / Pay what you can
Vibe: Classic arcade games accompanied by dance and groove beats.

Theatre & Culture: What’s On Today

January 20, 2026 Cultural Calendar

National Arts Centre Ottawa Caption: The National Arts Centre hosts a world-class orchestral performance tonight.

National Arts Centre (Southam Hall)

Event: Shelley, Beethoven & Korngold
Time: 7:30 PM
Details: A stunning orchestral evening featuring violinist Simone Lamsma performing Korngold’s Violin Concerto, alongside Beethoven’s heroic “Eroica” Symphony.
Tickets: From $50 (Check availability online).

Program Spotlight: Korngold’s Cinematic Violin

Tonight’s performance is a treat for both classical purists and film score fans. Erich Wolfgang Korngold, a child prodigy who later defined the “Hollywood sound” of the 1930s and 40s, composed this Violin Concerto with melodies borrowed from his own film scores (including The Prince and the Pauper and Another Dawn). Simone Lamsma’s interpretation is renowned for its technical brilliance and emotional depth, perfectly matching the lush, romantic texture of the piece. Paired with Beethoven’s “Eroica”—a symphony that originally redefined the scale of the genre—this evening promises a journey from revolutionary structuralism to cinematic romanticism.

Algonquin College (1385 Woodroffe Ave)

Event: Student Art Gallery Opening
Time: 1:00 PM
Details: A reception celebrating new student works. Free admission.

Dance Theatre of Harlem (Open Rehearsal)

Venue: National Arts Centre
Time: Matinee Warmup
Details: A behind-the-scenes look at the company’s preparation for their upcoming performances.

Sports This Weekend

As of 12:00 PM ET, January 20, 2026

Ottawa Senators Hockey Caption: The Senators hit the road tonight against Columbus.

While the Redblacks are in their off-season, hockey takes the spotlight tonight.

Ottawa Senators vs. Columbus Blue Jackets

Status: Away Game
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Watch: TSN 5, RDS
Context: The Sens look to secure a win on the road at Nationwide Arena.

Game Preview: Battle at Nationwide Arena

Tonight’s matchup against the Blue Jackets is pivotal for the Senators as they aim to climb the Eastern Conference standings. Historically, Nationwide Arena has been a challenging venue for Ottawa. Key players to watch include Tim Stützle, whose playmaking ability has been the engine of the offense lately, and captain Brady Tkachuk, who provides the physical edge needed in these gritty road games. The Blue Jackets, while rebuilding, possess a dangerous transition game that Ottawa’s defense will need to stifle early. Special teams will likely decide the outcome; Ottawa’s power play unit has shown flashes of brilliance but needs consistency tonight.

Community Skate & Practice Viewing

Location: Canadian Tire Centre
Activity: Public skate session and potential practice viewing.
Note: Free with rink pass; check the Senators website for last-minute schedule changes.

Museums & Attractions: What’s Open Today

As of 1:00 PM ET, January 20, 2026

Canadian Museum of Nature Caption: Escape the cold at one of Ottawa’s world-class museums.

Most major museums are open this Tuesday, offering a warm respite from the -18°C forecast.

Canadian Museum of Nature (240 McLeod St)

Special Event: Nature Nocturne (Preview Night)
Details: Get a sneak peek of the upcoming Jan 30th event with DJs, art, and exhibits.
Hours: Regular galleries open; Preview event in the evening.

Canada Science and Technology Museum

Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Deal: Free Admission daily from 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Highlights: Visit the ZOOOM Children’s Innovation Zone or the classic Crazy Kitchen.

National Gallery of Canada

Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Admission: Free for Indigenous peoples and youth under 19. Adult tickets approx. $16.

Canada Aviation and Space Museum

Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Note: Always check for potential maintenance closures in January before heading out.

Skating & Winter Recreation

As of 2:00 PM ET, January 20, 2026

Rideau Canal Skateway Caption: Sharpen your skates! Cold temperatures are helping ice conditions.

With the temperature dropping, ice conditions are improving across the region.

Rideau Canal Skateway

Status: Weather Permitting (Check NCC website for green flag).
Hours: Typically 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Access: Free entry; rentals available at Rideau Street and Fifth Avenue.

Rink of Dreams (Ottawa City Hall)

Status: Open
Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Vibe: Skating under the LED lights with music. Heated changing stations are available.

Ski Hills (Camp Fortune, Calabogie, Mont Cascades)

Conditions: Excellent. Recent snowmaking combined with cold nights has created a solid base.
Hours: Most hills are open 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM for night skiing.
Tickets: ~$50-$80; check online for weeknight specials.

Dining & Nightlife

As of 3:00 PM ET, January 20, 2026

ByWard Market Dining Caption: Warm up with happy hour specials in the ByWard Market.

Tuesday might seem quiet, but Ottawa’s culinary scene offers great “locals’ night” value.

ByWard Market Happy Hours

Starling Restaurant (54 York St): Early bird specials run 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM and again from 10:00 PM to close. Look for $6 cocktails and wines.
Grey’s Social Eatery: Offers approachable bistro fare perfect for a post-work warmup.
Sidedoor (18b York St): Famous for their tacos and donuts, a staple for a casual Tuesday bite.

Manor Lounge (Elgin St)

Special: “Wine Wednesday” deals are often available early on Tuesdays or specifically for the Dueling Pianos event tonight (check server for details).

Library Programs & Free Events

January 20–22, 2026

Ottawa Public Library Caption: Libraries across Ottawa offer free warmth and entertainment today.

Ottawa Public Library (OPL) Highlights

North Gloucester Branch: Family board games drop-in at 1:30 PM.
Elmvale Acres Branch: Book Club meeting at 2:00 PM, discussing “The Finder” by Will Ferguson.
Carlingwood Branch: Dungeons & Dragons for adults starts at 5:30 PM.
Main Branch (Metcalfe): English conversation practice groups (Drop-in).

Upcoming Free Event: Community Yoga

When: Wednesday, Jan 21 at 6:00 PM
Where: Ottawa City Hall (110 Laurier Ave W)
Details: Bring your mat for a free winter wellness session.

Weather Outlook

As of 4:00 PM ET

Ottawa Winter Weather Caption: Bundle up! Wind chills are making it feel significantly colder.

Current Status: Frigid with light flurries. The forecast for January 20 calls for a stark drop in temperatures.

Afternoon: High of -5°C, with light snow (approx. 0.1mm) tapering off by evening.
Tonight: Temperatures plummet to a low of -18°C.
Wind Chill: Southwest winds of 15-25 km/h will make it feel like -26°C overnight.
Roads: Expect slippery sections due to the fresh dusting of snow and potential drifting on open highways.

What To Do Now (Weather)

Frostbite can occur in minutes at these wind chill values. Ensure all exposed skin is covered if you are waiting for transit or walking tonight. Plug in your vehicle’s block heater if it’s parked outside overnight to ensure a smooth start tomorrow morning.

Weekend Events at a Glance

Looking ahead to January 24–25, 2026:

Saturday, January 24:

Hockey: Ottawa Senators vs. Carolina Hurricanes @ Canadian Tire Centre (7:00 PM).
Music: Hardcore Jollies (Funkadelic Tribute) @ House of Targ (1:00 AM).
Jobs: Commissionaires Ottawa Hiring Event (In-person).

Sunday, January 25:

Hockey: Ottawa Senators vs. Vegas Golden Knights @ Canadian Tire Centre (5:00 PM).
Film: Free Canadian Short Film Screening @ NAC (7:00 PM).
Nightlife: DJ Night @ Commonwealth Pub (9:00 PM).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the new federal tax changes for 2026? Effective immediately, the lowest federal income tax bracket has been reduced from 15% to 14%. This adjustment is expected to save the average taxpayer approximately $190 per year.

Q: Is the Rideau Canal Skateway open today? Ice conditions are improving rapidly due to the -18°C temperatures, but the status is officially “Weather Permitting.” Always check the NCC website for the green flag before heading out.

Q: Are there any job fairs in Ottawa this week? Yes. Major events include the Career Fair 2026 on Wednesday, January 21, and the Commissionaires hiring event on Saturday, January 24.

Q: How many public service jobs are being cut? Budget 2025 outlines a reduction of approximately 40,000 positions across the federal public service by 2028–29, with Statistics Canada recently issuing notices for about 850 roles.

Final Summary

Tuesday, January 20, 2026, marks a day of financial adjustment and winter endurance for Ottawa. While the federal tax cut provides a small boost to paycheques, rising municipal property taxes and public service cuts create a complex economic picture. As the city plunges into a deep freeze tonight with wind chills hitting -26°C, indoor cultural events like the NAC’s orchestral performance offer a welcome escape. Stay warm, drive safe, and keep an eye on those expanding skating opportunities.

Sources & References

This daily news roundup covers events and news for Ottawa residents. For the latest updates, check venue websites and social media.

Ottawa Daily News: January 20, 2026 - Tax Changes, Public Service Cuts & Cold Snap