Ottawa Morning Briefing: February 21, 2026 – Top 5 Stories You Need to Know

Good morning, Ottawa. Here's what you need to know today, Saturday, February 21, 2026.

1. Supreme Court Strikes Down Trump Tariffs, Creating Economic Uncertainty

The Supreme Court delivered a major blow to President Donald Trump's trade policy on Friday, striking down tariffs imposed under emergency powers. The ruling has created significant uncertainty for Canadian businesses and the broader North American economy as stakeholders scramble to understand the implications.

The court's decision invalidates tariffs that were implemented through the administration's use of emergency economic authorities. The ruling opens the door for importers to seek refunds for duties already collected, with estimates ranging from $133 billion to $175 billion in potential repayments. However, the actual distribution mechanism and timeline for these refunds remains unclear as legal experts and government officials work through the complex logistics.

For Canadian exporters and businesses with cross-border operations, the decision represents both opportunity and continued instability. While companies may be eligible to recoup significant sums paid in tariffs, the president has already pledged to impose new tariffs through alternative legal mechanisms.

According to reports, the Trump administration plans to implement a 10% tariff on all imports that would remain in place for 150 days. This move suggests that while the immediate legal framework for the previous tariffs has been dismantled, the administration's broader trade stance remains unchanged.

Ottawa-area businesses engaged in international trade should consult with legal and financial advisors to understand their eligibility for refunds under the court's ruling, while simultaneously preparing for the potential impact of replacement tariffs. The coming weeks will be critical as importers, exporters, and government agencies navigate this evolving situation.

2. Federal Government Advances Workforce Reduction Plans

The federal government is moving forward with plans to reduce the size of the public service, having sent thousands of letters to federal employees regarding workforce adjustments. According to the latest information, the notifications concern a total of 56 positions as part of broader efforts to streamline government operations.

The letters represent the latest phase in an ongoing initiative to reduce the federal workforce footprint. While specific details about which departments and roles are affected have not been fully disclosed, the notifications mark a concrete step in implementing previously announced reduction targets.

For Ottawa, where the federal government is one of the largest employers, workforce changes carry significant implications beyond those directly receiving notices. The ripple effects can impact everything from local businesses that serve government workers to housing markets and community services.

Federal public service unions have been monitoring the situation closely, and the delivery of formal notifications may prompt further discussions between labour representatives and government officials about the implementation process, timelines, and support for affected workers.

Employees who receive notifications should review the information carefully and take advantage of available resources, including union representation and government transition support services. The government has indicated that affected workers will receive appropriate notice periods and support in accordance with collective agreements and employment standards.

3. Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade Celebrates Today

Ottawa's Chinatown district comes alive today with its annual Lunar New Year Parade, a highlight of the 15-day festival celebrating the Year of the Snake. The parade represents a cherished tradition that brings together community members and visitors to mark one of the most important celebrations in Chinese culture.

The event typically features vibrant displays including dragon and lion dances, traditional music performances, martial arts demonstrations, and colorful floats representing various community organizations. Participants in elaborate costumes wind through Chinatown's streets, creating a festive atmosphere that draws thousands of spectators.

This year's celebration takes on particular significance as communities continue to strengthen cultural connections and celebrate diversity in the capital. The Lunar New Year festivities extend beyond the parade itself, with restaurants offering special menus, shops hosting promotions, and cultural centers organizing activities throughout the 15-day observation period.

For those attending, the parade offers an opportunity to experience traditional Chinese cultural expressions while supporting local businesses in the Chinatown district. Organizers encourage attendees to arrive early to secure good viewing spots along the parade route and to explore the various cultural activities happening throughout the area.

The event also serves as an economic boost for Chinatown businesses, many of which prepare special offerings for the occasion and see increased foot traffic during the Lunar New Year period.

4. Carlton Tavern Reimagined in New Development Proposal

A development proposal by Taggart is reimagining the future of the Carlton Tavern site, with plans that acknowledge the venue's place in Ottawa's social fabric while looking toward redevelopment. The proposal includes plans for an additional building featuring design elements that nod to the current Carlton structure.

According to the plans, the new building could potentially house restaurant use, preserving some connection to the Carlton's hospitality heritage while transforming the site for contemporary purposes. The design approach suggests an attempt to balance development interests with community connection to the existing establishment.

However, a significant consideration in the proposal's evaluation is that the Carlton building does not currently have official heritage protection designation. This means that while developers may choose to incorporate design references to the existing structure, there is no formal requirement to preserve the building itself or maintain specific heritage features.

The proposal comes at a time when Ottawa continues to grapple with questions about heritage preservation, development pressures, and neighborhood character. Similar debates have played out across the city as growth and intensification goals intersect with efforts to maintain connections to historic buildings and established community gathering places.

Community members and stakeholders will have opportunities to review and comment on the proposal as it moves through the municipal approval process. The outcome will likely depend on various factors including planning policy compliance, community feedback, and negotiations between the developer and city officials.

For patrons of the Carlton Tavern and residents of the surrounding area, the coming months will be important for making voices heard on the future of this community space.

5. Mild Weather Continues Above Seasonal Normals

Ottawa residents can enjoy continued mild conditions today, with temperatures expected to remain above seasonal normals for late February. The pleasant weather provides a welcome respite during what is typically one of the colder months of the year.

Daytime conditions are forecast to be comfortable for outdoor activities, making today ideal for attending events like the Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade or exploring the city's winter attractions without battling extreme cold. The mild pattern represents a departure from typical February weather, when temperatures often remain well below freezing throughout the day.

While the warmer conditions are generally welcome for residents looking to spend time outdoors, they also serve as a reminder of shifting climate patterns that continue to influence seasonal weather across the region. Regardless of the broader implications, today's forecast offers an opportunity to take advantage of more comfortable outdoor conditions.

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That's your Ottawa Morning Briefing for Saturday, February 21, 2026. Stay informed, stay connected.