I mentioned the transit DC specifically, because under the current way the long range financial plan (LRFP) is set up the DC is intended to fund the growth of the transit service to the area whereas the property tax levy is to fund operations and maintain the current level of service. It makes sense it’s less in the rural area now while the level of service is lower.

It really doesn't, though, if the goal is to actually bring transit to the area. Because as evidenced by the current state of suburban/rural areas of Ottawa, the DCs aren't actually doing what they're supposed to. That's why transit still sucks in too many places today.

DCs need to be backed by studies and plans, which are subject to provincial scrutiny and approval if I am remembering correctly.

You are indeed remembering correctly. The problem is Ontario can also shape what those DCs look like, hence the various programs we're talking about like the DCRP. Which is why Ottawa should be pursuing ways to do the same thing through increased taxes.

It might be easier to pivot to finding growth via property tax levies (which is what I think you are suggesting) but I don’t know the details of what it takes to change the LRFP, but I imagine the province isn’t going to jump in an say they need to lower taxes. Because that doesn’t help developers 😉

This may be where I need to double check my own memory, but I don't think Ottawa needs provincial approval to set and adjust its property taxes. So if, for example, Ottawa decides that taxes absolutely need to be at 5% to catch up on the city's backlog, Ontario doesn't care. But of course that requires Ottawa to say taxes need to be 5%. McKenny lost for saying 3.

I’d personally love to see Ottawa increase rural transit, it’s been a real treat to be able to drive to the southern end and take the train in 🚇

Transit city-wide needs an overhaul, including the train, IMO. I'm not rural, but any trip that involves the train is going to involve a bus first, if it shows up properly. I would happily pay more in property taxes to see that fixed. It's certainly not gonna be fixed with Sutcliffe's 2.5%.