Community Voices: From Education Tributes to Traffic Safety Concerns
Ottawa Citizen readers have shared a diverse range of opinions and reflections in the latest letters to the editor published on Saturday, November 15, 2025. The collection includes heartfelt tributes to a respected education leader, concerns about recent traffic safety changes, and appreciation for positive community coverage.
Speed Camera Removal Sparks Safety Concerns
One reader witnessed the dismantling of a speed camera system near a school at the south end of Merivale Road. The observer described seeing crews "dismantle and unceremoniously pile what remained of a very effective speed camera and all its attachments into the back of a pickup truck." The wooden post with signs still attached was reportedly cut into small pieces, destined for landfill.
Graham Jones of Osgoode suggested preserving the infrastructure for potential future use, stating: "Save the signs, allow the post to continue to stand, and all of us reasonable people cling to the hope that one day speed cameras will again be allowed to serve a very valuable purpose."
Another reader, Eleanor Abra of Ottawa, expressed stronger concerns about public safety, questioning how officials would explain "the first kid hit by a speeding car once the speed cameras are deactivated."
Tribute to an Exceptional Education Leader
The letters included a significant tribute to Pino Buffone, former Director of Education for the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board. Former OCDSB trustees John Shea and Cathy Curry penned a moving acknowledgment of Buffone's service, describing him as having "genuine warmth and integrity" and calling him "a rare education leader."
The former trustees wrote: "As trustees when Pino first became a superintendent, we had the privilege of working with him closely and witnessing firsthand his integrity, kindness, and exceptional leadership in curriculum and instruction. Few people combine such deep knowledge of education with such genuine warmth."
They highlighted Buffone's leadership qualities, noting he "always led with empathy, fairness, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every student." Under his guidance, the district strengthened its focus on inclusive learning, student well-being, and high standards of teaching.
The tribute concluded: "He is, quite simply, one of the nicest people you could ever hope to meet. His collaborative spirit and steady professionalism inspired confidence in everyone around him."
Appreciation for Positive Community News
Another reader expressed gratitude for the Social Scene page in the Ottawa Citizen, describing it as a welcome relief from typically discouraging news. The reader noted that while "most papers are filled with world news (discouraging & frightening), sports victories, losses and scandals, and government mismanagement," the Social Scene coverage provides stories that "lift the spirits and restore faith in our society."
The letters demonstrate the ongoing community engagement with local issues ranging from education leadership to public safety measures, reflecting the diverse concerns and appreciations of Ottawa residents.
