August 30, 2024 newsletter

August 30, 2024 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.

A Message from Councillor King

This week, the Government of Canada unveiled plans for a new development project in Wateridge Village, located in Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward, as part of its Public Lands for Homes Plan. This initiative aims to increase housing supply by leasing federal lands for development.

The property, located at Codd’s Road and Winisik Street, is being offered through Canada Lands Company under the Federal Lands Initiative.

The federal government's plan for this site specifies a minimum of 495 units, with at least 30 per cent designated as affordable housing. These affordable units are required to offer rents below 80 percent of the area's median market rent for the duration of a 99-year lease term.

The plan for Wateridge Village includes creating a new mixed-use development, incorporating both residential and commercial spaces, and leveraging transit and pedestrian connections. Ideally, project development will be expedited since the land is municipally serviced.

The development site is also located near planned elementary schools, a community park, and a town square, which are amenities that contribute to a comprehensive neighborhood setting.

The proposed development will supplement the 271 affordable housing units in Wateridge Village recently completed by Ottawa Community Housing at 715 Mikinak Road, with support from both provincial and federal governments.

This new project is part of a broader initiative involving 56 properties across Canada identified for potential housing development by the federal government. The federal government states that this approach aims to address housing needs while maintaining public ownership of the lands.

The federal government is accepting proposals from various entities, including community housing organizations, non-profits, co-operatives, government bodies, Indigenous organizations, and for-profit companies.

I will continue to work cooperatively with my elected provincial and federal colleagues, residents, community organizations and Canada Lands Company to assist in delivering this new development project, to increase our Ward’s housing supply.

 

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Your Councillor in the Community

 

Enjoyed the Ottawa New Edinburgh Club celebration at the NCC's River House for new Canadians who completed the Learn to Row program in partnership with Rowing Canada. Wonderful to present certificates with Ottawa-Vanier MP Mona Fortier this week to those who successfully completed the program.

 

As Deputy Mayor I helped open the 4th Ottawa Intergenerational Ethnocultural Exhibition & Festival produced by the Social Planning Council of Ottawa and held at The Rideau Community Hub last weekend.

Had fun attending Ottawa-Vanier MP Mona Fortier's community BBQ at Queen Elizabeth Public School in Ward 13, along with Beacon Hill-Cyrville Councillor Tim Tierney and many other community and City partners.

More fun times attending Ottawa-Vanier MPP Lucille Collard's corn roast and vendor fair in Optimist Park in Vanier last weekend.

Attended the Partage Beechwood event with 200 people who raised $65,000 for the Vanier food bank! Thank you Vanier BIA, sponsors and all who donated!

Very pleased to celebrate Le Conseil Économique et Social d’Ottawa-Carleton receiving nearly $600,000 in federal funding to support 100 Francophone entrepreneurs and businesses in eastern Ontario.

As Deputy Mayor I had the honour to observe Ukraine’s 33rd Independence Day and Day of the National Flag with the local Ukrainian-Canadian community and the diplomatic corps.

Thank you to the South Sudanese Canadian Association of Ottawa for celebrating and acknowledging the achievements of youth graduates last weekend at Vincent Massey Park.

Great to visit the Kenyan community BBQ at Vincent Massey Park last weekend.

It was great to meet with MPP Michael Ford, Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism, during the Association of Municipalities of Ontario 2024 annual conference in Ottawa to discuss anti-racism initiatives at the City of Ottawa.

 

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Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities

Crichton Community Council - anniversary community barbecue - August 30

New Edinburgh's Crichton Community Council celebrates 50 years in 2024. Help them celebrate this milestone by attending their community barbecue and fieldhouse party on Friday, August 30 from 4 to 7 pm at the New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse, 203 Stanley Avenue. There will facepainting, a bouncy castle, games, live music, refreshments and hotdogs and hamburgers (including vegetarian options). www.newedinburgh.ca/event/community-bbq

Farmers' Market in New Edinburgh Park - August 31

Enjoy a farmers' market closer to home, in New Edinburgh Park near the New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse, at 203 Stanley Avenue. Every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm. For details, please visit ottstreetmarkets.ca. The Ottawa Street Market is also open at the Farm Store at 1805 Gaspe Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm and Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 3 to 6 pm. 

Hurricane Beryl Relief Drive - August 31

The ACB Wellness Resource Centre in Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward 13 is extending its efforts to collect non-perishable goods and monetary contributions to aid Hurricane Beryl relief efforts through the month of August. This hurricane left many families displaced and in urgent need of assistance across the Caribbean. In response to this crisis, the African, Caribbean and Black Wellness Resource Centre is reaching out to our compassionate community for support. Your generosity will directly benefit those affected in St. Vincent, providing essential supplies and support during this difficult time. 

1. *Non-Perishable Food Items:* We are accepting donations of canned goods, dry foods, toiletry products, diapers, and clothing that can sustain families in need. Drop-offs can be made every Saturday until the end of August from 12 to 2 pm, at the ACB Wellness Resource Centre, 610 Donald Street. 
2. *Monetary Contributions:* Financial donations are crucial for purchasing additional supplies and meeting the immediate needs of hurricane survivors. For those wishing to contribute financially, we are accepting e-transfers at: [email protected]

 

New Zoning By-law

Thank you to Ward 13 residents who attended and participated in the Ward 13-specific information session on August 29 regarding the City of Ottawa's New Zoning By-law. This presentation and Q&A session was just a first step in the ongoing consultation process. If you missed Thursday night's session, you can read the presentation at this link. For more information about the City's New Zoning By-law and for updates on future consultation opportunities, please visit Engage Ottawa: engage.ottawa.ca/zoning

 

Back to School 2024: Safety reminders for students and commuters

A message from Ottawa Bylaw: Reminder to all parents and guardians: When dropping off or picking up your kids, always use designated areas or park and walk. Let’s keep our school zones safe and clear!

A message from Public Safety Canada: During the back to school season, there may be more traffic on the road and neighbourhood streets – drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Be mindful of your speed and watch out for a higher presence of children. For back to school safety and planning tips, please visit getprepared.gc.ca. 

A message from Ottawa Police: Back to School season is here! As students of all ages return to the classroom, the Ottawa Police Service would like to wish everyone a safe return to school and provide some safety reminders to the community. Students are heading to school by bus, on foot, and by bike. Infractions in school zones will be fully enforced. Visit ottawapolice.ca for important safety reminders as well as helpful resources. 

• Teach children the rules of the road, show them how to safely cross the street and how to look out for oncoming traffic. 
• Drivers: stay alert for the increased presence of school buses, pedestrians, youth and child cyclists and other road users on our streets. 
• Slow down in school zones and be prepared to stop at any time. Children may not always be aware of oncoming traffic. 
• Obey school bus signals. Alwaysstop in both directions on roads without a median when a school bus is stopped with flashing lights. Fines for failing to stop range from $400 to $2,000 and carry six demerit points. 
• Be cautious at pedestrian crossings—understand how they work and respect them when in use. 
• Pedestrians and Young cyclists: Use sidewalks wherever they are available. 
• Cross streets at intersections, paying close attention to traffic, and only proceed when it’s safe. 
• Always wear a helmet when cycling and walk your bike across roadways. 
• Follow the guidance of crossing guards, crossing patrols, and school bus drivers.
• Hate has no place in our community. Check in with students about safety at school and the importance of reporting hate-motivated incidents to police at ottawapolice.ca/report or by calling 613-236-1222.

 

It's almost September: Pack your lunch, backpack, and make a plan for getting to school!  

It takes 10 minutes (on average) to walk 800m – that’s about two or more blocks from your school. Even though it takes 3-4 minutes to drive the same distance, once you factor in traffic at the school and getting your family in and out of the car, it all adds up to a longer trip! Walking and wheeling builds sustainable lifelong habits, gets you out in the fresh air, and can take a shorter amount of time than you think. The number of kids (5-17 years) in Canada meeting national physical activity guidelines has improved but we’re still far from where we need to be. Only 39% met the recommended 60 minutes of moderate activity per day and 1-2 hours of light activity per day. Including walking, cycling, or scooting to school in your family’s routine can help you get closer to meeting these targets! There are lots of ways to make your trip to school more active, including bike buses, walking with a buddy, or parking a block or two away and then walking. You can find the Walk-A-Block map for OCDSB and OCSB schools here, and at these links for CECCE and CEPEO.   

Walk and wheel to school when you can - it will make a world of difference! Find out more about how School Active Transportation works. 

Be part of the community - Become a Crossing Guard!

 

Join the Ottawa Safety Council’s (OSC) dedicated, community-minded team of Adult Crossing Guards! Great reasons to join the OSC’s crossing guard team:

• Make a real difference in your own community!
• Get to know your neighbours
• Help local families
• Become a trusted face in your neck of the woods
• Enjoy supplementary income and perks

Being a Crossing Guard provides a meaningful employment opportunity that puts a smile on everyone’s face. 

• Zone 6 - 9 intersections partially or fully vacant (most in Centretown/Centretown West and Rockcliffe Park)

Interested in learning more? Get all the details on becoming a crossing guard from our website at www.ottawasafetycouncil.ca/employment-opportunities or contact Ella at [email protected]

 

Call for Research Project Participants - Apply by Sept. 3

Carleton University and the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre are conducting a community-based research project. They are looking for participants to collaborate with students from the School of Industrial Design at Carleton University in designing solutions to support the feeling of belonging among young new immigrants in our community. Participants need to be at least 18 years old and can be of any gender and background. If you are interested, please send an email to [email protected] by September 3, 2024.

ASE camera installations in Overbrook & New Edinburgh - Starting Sept. 3

My office has been advised that the installation of automated speed enforcement cameras on Queen Mary Street and Crichton Street will begin Sept. 3 - two of 20 ASE cameras being installed across Ottawa in 2024. The work on Sept. 3 will involve removal and excavation, installation of underground electrical conduit, and backfilling. Any roadway or sidewalks impacted will have granulars placed so they are walkable / drivable by the end of the day. The reinstatement of asphalt and concrete is slated for the end of next week, possibly early the next week. For Queen Mary, the conduit is being installed from the intersection of Queen Mary and Edith, impacting the southeast, northeast and northwest quadrants (in succession) and along the north side of Queen Mary to the camera location about 40m west of Edith. Pedestrians will be signed to use the opposite sidewalk, and workers will attempt to help people navigate the area. Traffic will be reduced to a single lane with alternating traffic and flagging personnel. For Crichton, the work is limited to a small area near the bus stop between Beechwood and Vaughan. Pedestrians will be required to use the other sidewalk during the work period. The contractor is planning to maintain two lanes of traffic around this work zone.

Locations for community safety zone speed enforcement cameras are selected by City staff based on criteria that includes collision history, speeding issues, proximity to schools and feedback from the Ottawa Police Service.

The Highway Traffic Act only authorizes the use of Automated Speed Enforcement in designated school zones and community safety zones. A community safety zone is a section of roadway that has been designated through a by-law and recognized under provincial legislation, identifying it as an area where public safety is of special concern (i.e., school areas, parks/playgrounds, excessive speeding, low speed limit compliance, collision history, etc.) A school zone is a section of roadway where reduced speed limits are in effect within 150 metres in either direction of a school property. School zones are designated on roadways that meet certain warrant criteria and are not established at all schools. School areas that are not classified as ‘school zones’ do not have posted speed reductions during school hours but can still qualify for Automated Speed Enforcement when a Community Safety Zone is established that encompasses the school area.

Automated Speed Enforcement is one of many tools used by the City of Ottawa to help reduce speeds and alter driver behaviours with the goal of improving road safety. Automated Speed Enforcement is a system that uses a camera and the corresponding speed measurement device to enforce speed limits. Speed cameras, much like red-light cameras, exist to reduce the risk of collisions. Data from a year-long City of Ottawa pilot study showed that speed cameras had a positive impact on driver speed and safety in school zones:

• 200 per cent increase in compliance with the speed limit
• 11 per cent decrease in 85th percentile speed (the speed at which 85 percent of traffic is travelling or below)
• 72 per cent decrease in drivers traveling at 15 km/h over the speed limit

All revenue generated from tickets issued via the Automated Speed Enforcement program is reinvested into the City of Ottawa’s Road Safety Action Plan program, which uses education, engineering and enforcement to promote road safety for all road users.

Oakhill, Corona and Carsdale Integrated Renewal Update - Road closures extended until Oct. 15

Project update: The Corona piping is complete and homes have already been connected to the new live watermain. On Oakhill, City Drinking Water staff will complete the watermain connection and KCE will finish the storm sewer installation on the next two weeks. The Carsdale watermain work will start on Tuesday, Sept. 3 and is expected to be completed in the next few weeks. Road grading and asphalt paving on Corona, Oakhill, Carsdale and the laneway will be completed in September. Landscaping will take place in early October.

Road closure extension: Given site conditions and ongoing progress, it is anticipated that asphalt paving will be completed by the end of September. The contractor has requested that the roads remain closed for the first two weeks of October so that they can complete the landscaping efficiently.

 

Sensory Storytime at the Ottawa Public Library - Every Thursday from Sept. 5 to Dec. 5 at the St. Laurent Branch

Select branches of the Ottawa Public Library, including the St. Laurent branch, will be hosting a monthly Sensory Storytime. This program provides a welcoming and respectful environment for children with developmental disabilities and autism from 18 months to 6 years of age. Each program will feature dimmed lighting, sensory toys, a smaller number of participants and an adapted circle time with stories, rhymes and songs. During this program there will be opportunities for open play and a chance to connect with other families. The circle time portion of this program is offered in the last 20 minutes of the session. This is a drop-in program - registration is not required.

Beechwood's Annual Historical Tour - Sept. 8

The Beechwood Cemetery presents the Annual Historical Tour as a living library on Sept. 8 from 2 to 4 pm at 280 Beechwood Avenue. Learn firsthand about incredible people and how they shaped history, performed by the Ottawa School of Theatre. Please arrive before 3:20 pm to enjoy the full experience. Dress for the weather. For more information, please visit Facebook, call 613-741-9530 or email [email protected].

Presland Park Survey

 

Overbrook residents are invited to share ideas for improvements to Presland Park that would best suit the needs of park users of all ages. You are invited to fill out my Presland Park survey. 

Alvin Heights Park Survey 

Residents living near Alvin Heights Park and those who use the park are invited to share their vision for park improvements with my office. The park survey is available at this link. 

North River Road Traffic Calming Study & Active Transportation Facilities - 2 surveys open until Sept. 9

  

The City is doing two surveys regarding North River Road:

• A traffic-calming study for North River Road between Donald and south of Wright Street in response to traffic concerns. The study aims to recommend local and minor permanent roadway modifications to improve safety and reduce traffic speeds. As part of this, the City has developed a proposed traffic-calming plan. Your feedback on this plan is appreciated. Please fill out the North River Road Neighbourhood Traffic Calming Study survey by September 9 at Ottawa.ca/NorthRiverRoad (or scan the QR code in the poster)
  
  
• The City is proposing active transportation improvements such as cycling lanes, sidewalk segments, improved bus stops and intersection improvements along North River Road to improve safety and accessibility, and to encourage cycling and connections to transit stops. Your feedback on this proposed North River Road Active Transportation Facilities plan before September 9 is appreciated: Ottawa.ca/NorthRiverRoad (or scan the QR code in the poster)

 

BeechFest - Sept. 7

On Saturday, September 7 from 3 to 9 pm, the Vanier BIA hosts its annual Beechwood Avenue street party. From St. Charles to Marier, the street will be activated with live music and shows, arts and crafts, food and drink, and so much more! For details, please visit Facebook.

 

Fibre optic installation - Presland Road - Starting Sept. 10

Rogers has applied to the City to install fibre optics along the City's right-of-way on Presland Road between both ends of Whitton Crescent. The work will include boring trenches and pits where required, placement of PVC conduit and replacing an existing Rogers pedestal. The project is anticipated to start Sept. 10. 

 

Orange Shirt Day at The Rideau Community Hub - Sept. 10

The Odawa Native Friendship Centre hosts Orange Shirt Day on Sept. 10 from 11 am to 1 pm at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard. The event will feature opening remarks, awareness and education in Room 125 and an Indian taco fundraiser in Room 106 with proceeds going to Odawa programs. The Every Child Matters flag will be raised at 1 pm. For more information, please visit odawafc.com or www.facebook.com/OdawaNFC.

 

Memory Cafes at the Ottawa Public Library - Every Wednesday starting Sept. 11 at the Vanier Branch

Select branches of the Ottawa Public Library, including the Vanier branch at 310 Peres Blancs, will be hosting Memory Café programs, open houses for persons with dementia, their care partners, and families. Fun and stimulating mental activities are planned to enhance the social interactions and connections built within the group. Light snacks and warm drinks are served alongside items that aim to spark conversations and reminiscing. Each session will feature a different theme. This is a drop-in program - registration is not required.

Vanier BIA Akoustic at St. Charles - Sept. 11 and 25

Join the Vanier BIA this summer for Akoustik, a FREE outdoor live music event in Vanier at the St. Charles Market, located at the corner of Beechwood Avenue and St. Charles Street. Upcoming dates are Sept. 11 and 25. For details and updates, please visit www.facebook.com/ZACVanierBIA.

 

The Age of AI: Inclusive Innovation for Canada’s Global Leadership - Sept. 13

Join me, Councillor Rawlson King, in taking a deep dive into "The Age of AI: Inclusive Innovation for Canada's Global Leadership," a panel discussion around ensuring emerging technologies like AI provide opportunities for full and active participation of all citizens. This event takes place Sept. 13 from 3 to 8 pm at Invest Ottawa, located at 7 Bayview Station Road. For details and tickets, please visit Eventbrite.

 

Art for Heart free paint series at St. Laurent Shopping Centre - Sept. 13 & 14

Launching on September 13, St. Laurent Shopping Centre will host Art for Heart, a free paint series in support of Kids Help Phone. This series will offer three art classes for participants to learn valuable art skills from Ottawa School of the Arts instructors, listen to local DJs, receive a free Atletico Ottawa ticket and support mental health awareness. Interested in becoming a participant? Click here for more information, or click here to sign up. This launch of this series aims to provide access for local youth to healthy outlets that support their best well-being.

 

FAB Festival - Sept. 14 - Volunteers & Makers needed!

The FAB Festival is a one-day, family-friendly celebration designed to showcase the ingenuity and creativity of our local community. Inspired by the Ottawa Maker Faire, the festival aims to ignite wonder, spark joy, and celebrate the diverse talents within our community. The event takes place at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard, on Sept. 14 from 10 am to 5 pm. For more event details, please visit: incubator13.ca/fabfest or Eventbrite.

Volunteers needed!

This is a great opportunity to contribute to a meaningful community event. Volunteers are needed! If you would like to volunteer please fill out the form: form.jotform.com/240655094939063 

Innovators welcome!

Incubator13, a Social Innovation Lab, is inviting artists, makers, innovators, and anyone with unique ideas and creative talents to be part of the exciting FAB Fest. This event is a fantastic platform to highlight your work and connect with a diverse audience.

How to Get Involved:

• To secure your spot as a maker or artist, please register HERE
• If you would like to volunteer, please register HERE

 

New Edinburgh Neighbourhood Sale - Sept. 21

The New Edinburgh Neighbourhood Sale will take place Saturday, September 21 from 8 am until 12 pm. Homeowners, condominium groups, religious congregations, businesses, non-profit organizations and artists are encouraged to hold sales on private property throughout New Edinburgh. The area around the New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse, located at 203 Stanley Avenue, will be a busy sales centre since the weekly market coincides with the neighbourhood sale. For more details, please visit newedinburgh.ca. 

 

Ottawa Chamberfest Torch Songs - Sept. 22

Join Ottawa Chamberfest for a sizzling evening of Torch Songs featuring Ottawa’s own Julie Nesrallah! The Gala with Julie Nesrallah features an 11-piece ensemble, wine, hors d’oeuvres and sweet treats, plus a silent auction. The event takes place Sept. 22 at 6 pm at the Beechwood Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Avenue. For details and tickets, please visit chamberfest.com or call 613-234-6306.

 

Homes for the Holidays - Sept. 26

Enjoy the 22nd annul Homes for the Holidays launch event at the Spanish Ambassador's stunning home in the Rockcliffe Park community on Sept. 26 from 6 to 8 pm. This special evening, which is a fundraiser for Hospice Care Ottawa, will feature mingling, wine, hors d'oeuvres and music. For more information and to purchase tickets, please click here.

 

Creative Expressions for racialized women and femmes - Starts Sept. 28

The much-anticipated Creative Expressions program is back, just in time to welcome the fall season with a sense of renewal and transformation. This annual favourite introduces fresh, inspiring activities that foster sisterhood and creativity. This year's theme, "Roots and Blossoms," is a 7-week journey designed exclusively for racialized women and femmes. Centered on the theme of "Evolution," the program provides a nurturing space for participants to explore personal and collective growth through diverse artistic and cultural expressions. The program begins Sept. 28 from 11 am to 2 pm at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard, in Room 220. Space is limited. Registration is required by clicking here. Questions? Email [email protected] This program is exclusively for Black, Indigenous Women of Colour (BIWOC), Femmes, and Newcomer women who identify as part of the BIPOC community.   

 

New Edinburgh Studio Tour - Sept. 28 and 29

The self-guided New Edinburgh Studio Tour (NEST) takes place annually on the fourth weekend in September: Sept. 28 and 29. Approximately 20 artists, who live or work creatively within New Edinburgh will be opening their studio doors to the public. Locations of the studios will be scattered throughout New Edinburgh and are within walking or biking distance. Admission to the studio tour is free and everyone is welcome. Artwork will be exhibited and available for sale, and live demonstrations will occur throughout the day. NEST offers the public a unique opportunity to encounter professional and emerging local artists in the studios where they work. For more information, please visit www.nestudiotour.ca.

 

Vote for the Vanier basketball court - Voting deadline extended until Sept. 30

One of three community sports projects in Ottawa has the opportunity to secure $100,000 from the OSEG Foundation, including the vision of establishing a Vanier basketball court. In partnership with Prezdential, a social enterprise that is dedicated to bridging the gap faced by disadvantaged youth in Ottawa, the Vanier basketball court project would create accessible outdoor basketballs spaces that remove barriers to access for youth in this community. Prezdential and Rideau-Vanier Councillor Stéphanie Plante, with support from the Vanier BIA, my office, the Snowsuit Fund and the Ottawa Basketball Network, are hoping to develop a parking lot behind the Bernard-Grandmaître Arena into a basketball court. Vanier currently does not have outdoor basketball courts from Montreal Road to McArthur Avenue. The project to receive the most votes will secure an OSEG community grant. Please visit osegfoundation.ca to cast your vote before the Sept. 30 deadline. Check out the video here. 

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City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities 

Lowertown Movie in the Park - August 31

The Lowertown Community Association hosts a "Movie in the Park" event, in collaboration with Capital Pop-Up Cinema, at Jules Morin Park, 400 Clarence Street East, on August 31! The fun starts at 8 pm, featuring the classic family favorite, Space Jam. Enjoy a wonderful evening under the stars. Monetary donations will be gratefully accepted in support of the Lowertown Community Resource Centre's food bank program. 

September is Prostate Cancer Month

Mayor Mark Sutcliffe proclaimed September 2024 as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month in Ottawa. Do you have questions about prostate cancer? Do you need support? You are not alone. Please visit pcsottawa.ca for support and information. Prostate Cancer Support Ottawa (PCSO) is a local volunteer organization of prostate cancer survivors and supporters who:

• Help men recently diagnosed with prostate cancer,
• Provide support to men and their families who continue to live with recurrent cancer, and
• Promote awareness of this disease and the associated issues.

Labour Day Schedule changes - Sept. 2

The City of Ottawa would like to remind residents of the schedule changes and City service impacts for the Labour Day holiday on Monday, September 2. For details, please visit ottawa.ca.

Ottawa Labour Day March and Picnic - Sept. 2

The Ottawa & District Labour Council is organizing a Labour Day march and picnic for Sept. 2 from 12 to 4 pm. The march leaves the Lisgar Street side of Ottawa City Hall at 12 pm sharp. March Route: South on Elgin Street to Gladstone Avenue, West on Gladstone Avenue to McNabb Park (corner of Gladstone Avenue and Bronson Avenue). The picnic commences when march participants arrive at McNabb Park (approx. 12:45 pm). Picnic includes: BBQ (Hot dogs, corn-on-the-cob, melon pieces, drinks). Live music, face painting, bouncy castle, wading pool with lifeguards. Everything is free. For details, please visit ottawalabour.labourcouncils.ca. 

Cleaning the Capital Fall Campaign - Registration open until Oct. 1

Registration is now open for the Cleaning the Capital Fall campaign. Cleanup projects will take place between September 15 and October 15. Participants can register their cleanup projects by using the online registration form available at ottawa.ca/clean. The registration form populates an interactive map with pins that display the location, date, and time of all registered cleanup projects. Cleanup kits, which include garbage bags and nitrile gloves, will be made available for pick-up by registrants at one of 14 City of Ottawa facilities across the city. This fall, based on participant feedback and demand, we have added four new cleanup kit pick-up sites (including two rural pick-up locations). As the new three-item limit for curbside garbage collection will come into effect during this campaign, participants are encouraged to review the instructions and options for proper disposal of collected waste/litter prior to their planned cleanup projects. This information will be communicated to participants via registration confirmation, as well as through ottawa.ca/clean.

Key Fall campaign dates:
August 15: Registration begins
September 15 to October 15: Cleaning the Capital Fall campaign
October 1: Deadline to register
November 1: Deadline to submit online cleanup reports

Residential Protective Plumbing By-law - Survey open until Sept. 6

Want to protect your basement from flooding? The City of Ottawa's Residential Protective Plumbing By-law is under review, and staff need your input! Visit Engage Ottawa for more information and to complete the online survey by Sept. 6.

 

Sewer Use By-Law Review - Survey open until Sept. 6

The City's Infrastructure and Water Services Department is currently reviewing the Sewer Use (By-Law No. 2003-514), which is designed to protect the environment and City infrastructure from harmful substances by monitoring limits on matters discharged into the sewage works and regulating industry compliance. This comprehensive review aims to achieve several key objectives:  

• Updates to align to Provincial regulatory changes to O. Reg 267/03 for Biosolids, Guidelines for the Management of Biomedical Waste 1992 and new references to the Ontario Building Code Act Reg 129-04 and the Ontario Water Resources Act.
• Changes in industry trends.
• Enhanced language to educate industries on compliance expectations and interceptor maintenance requirements.
• Additional and more transparent compliance tools.

Visit Engage Ottawa for more information and to complete the survey by Sept. 6.

 

Lansdowne 2.0 Engagement Session - Sept. 10

City staff have prepared a site plan application for the proposed new Lansdowne 2.0 event centre. Join the City for a virtual information and comment session on Tuesday, September 10 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Register here. Learn more about Lansdowne 2.0 here: Lansdowne 2.0 | Engage Ottawa. 

 

Have your say on Draft Budget 2025 - poll open until Sept. 13

Budget 2025 is right around the corner, and we want to hear from you! Tell City staff what budget priorities matter to you by visiting the Engage Ottawa Draft Budget 2025 page to complete a short poll. The poll is open until Friday, September 13 and the results will be posted on Engage Ottawa. 

 

Nominations open for 13th Annual Order of Ottawa and Brian Kilrea Award for Excellence in Coaching - Until Sept. 13

  

The City is now accepting nominations for the 2024 Order of Ottawa and the Brian Kilrea Award for Excellence in Coaching. You can complete nominations for both awards either online or by downloading a nomination form from the Order of Ottawa award webpage. The submission deadline is Friday, September 13 at 11:59 pm. Nominations will be considered every year for five consecutive years from the date of submission.

 

Ottawa’s New Older Adult Plan - in-person consultation Sept. 17; survey open until Sept. 30

The City of Ottawa is planning for the development of its new Older Adult Plan. City staff are continuing to consult with residents and community agencies to determine the priorities and structure needed to facilitate the implementation of a new plan. Ottawa's older adults are invited to an in-person consultation event on Sept. 17 from 1:30 to 3:30 pm at the Ron Kolbus Lakeside Centre, 102 Greenview Avenue. The information you provide will inform the City of Ottawa's new iteration of the Older Adult Plan, which will be launched in 2025. There is a limited amount of space, please register here to attend. Should you have any challenges using the online form, you can call Bay Ward Councillor Theresa Kavanagh’s office at 613-580-2477, ext. 17007. Registration will close once we reach our maximum capacity. If you are unable to attend, you can also complete the online survey at engage.ottawa.ca/oap. The survey will be open until Sept. 30. If you have questions about this survey or the new Older Adult Plan, email [email protected].

 

Fall Volunteer Expo - Sept. 20

 

Volunteer Ottawa is holding its Fall Volunteer Expo on Friday, September 20, 2024 from 3 to 6 pm at the Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Avenue. This is a free, in-person event where you can speak with dozens of local charities about volunteer opportunities. More information and the full list of participating charities are available on the VO website. This is a great event for high school students looking for community service hours, seniors and retirees wanting to stay active, and newcomers interested in getting to know the community. And anyone else interested in volunteering.

 

Major Capital Project Funding applications for cultural facilities - Submission deadline is Sept. 25

The next deadline for the City of Ottawa's Cultural Facilities Fund - Major Capital Projects is September 25, 2024. The Major Capital Cultural Facilities Fund is designed to improve cultural spaces and facilities across the City of Ottawa. It provides eligible cultural organizations with funds for major capital projects, i.e., renovation, construction, restoration projects, purchase of specialized equipment with costs exceeding $60,000, and capital studies (prefeasibility and feasibility). For details, please visit ottawa.ca.

 

Three-item garbage limit - Effective Sept. 30

On Monday, September 30, the City of Ottawa will introduce a limit of three items of garbage to be picked up at the curb on collection day.  A garbage item could be a garbage bag, a garbage container up to 140 litres or a bulky item such as an unusable or broken piece of furniture. Households can put several smaller bags in one garbage container to count as one item. There is no limit to how much residents can set out through curbside recycling, green bins and leaf and yard waste bags. This change only applies to residents who receive curbside garbage collection. Not sure if this applies to you? Visit Ottawa.ca/garbage for more information and search your address to find out.

Yellow bags for residents: Residents who need to go above the three-item garbage limit can purchase yellow bags from participating Home Hardware stores, Building Materials & Renovations and select City facilities. Yellow bags for residents will be available for purchase later this year in advance of the three-item garbage limit. Yellow bags will be sold in packages of four at a cost of $17.60. The City is exploring options to expand where yellow bags can be purchased. More information will be available later this year. There is no limit to the number of yellow bags that can be set out for collection.

 

O-Train Extension interactive map

OC Transpo is excited to launch a new feature on the O-Train X website: an interactive map, designed to familiarize you to the future of the O-Train Network! With this new tool, you can now:

• Learn more about existing and future stations: Explore detailed information about future stops, their locations and features.
• Plan your route: With new multi-use pathways, bus connections, and a list of Park & Rides, your options for connecting to transit will expand.
• Discover O-Train Extension benefits: From wifi, to public art, and more the O-Train Extension will enhance the commuting experience!

It's your all-in-one tool. Hop on and explore today!

Emergency Services New

Beware of a scam, impersonation of Ottawa Police and Ottawa Victim Services

The Ottawa Police Service Organized Fraud Unit is warning the public of a reported scam. Victims have received calls from persons pretending to be victim support workers from Ottawa Victim Services. The fraudster typically tells the victim that their personal information has been compromised and appeared on the dark web relating to crimes against children. The victim is then instructed to attend their banking institution and transfer funds or offered help by the fraudster to transfer money out of their compromised accounts into the one that has been specially prepared for them. To further complicate matters, the fraudster references a partnership with Ottawa Police Service investigators and the calls appear to be from a telephone number that belongs to Ottawa Victim Services (613-238-2762). People are reminded that, should they receive unsolicited calls from a person requesting money or personal information, they should advise the person on the line that they will call them back. They should then verify the correct number for whatever agency is supposedly calling and call them back, as applicable. It should be further noted that the actual Ottawa Police phone number (613-236-1222) as well as Ottawa Victim Services (613-238-2762) will not show up on your call display when you are receiving a legitimate call from either of them. If you have been a victim of fraud, please make a report online with the Ottawa Police Service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre by phone at 1-888-495-8501 (toll-free). Details at ottawapolice.ca.

Join the Ottawa Police Youth Advisory Committee - Applications due by Sept. 1

Ottawa Police are recruiting for the Youth Advisory Committee! Are you under 24? Do you want to share your ideas while working together with the police to help build a safer Ottawa? YAC is made for you! Apply by September 1! Visit ottawapolice.ca/YAC to apply.

Community Engagement Consultation Survey Now Online - Open until Sept. 7

The Ottawa Police Service Board (OPSB) and the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) are seeking community views about how the Ottawa Police Service is performing, what the strategic goals should be for the Ottawa Police Service, and what the policing priorities should be in Ottawa. We encourage everyone who works and lives in Ottawa to participate in the Community Engagement Consultation Survey to guide what the Service’s priorities should be in the future. Ottawa is a diverse community, and to make sure that everyone has an opportunity to be heard, the survey is being issued in eight different languages including English, French, Somali, Arabic, simplified Chinese, Farsi, Inuktitut and Spanish. To participate in the survey, please visit the OPSB and OPS Survey page and click the appropriate language link. This public consultation process will continue until September 7. This survey is provides important input into the 2025 OPS Draft Budget discussions. The consultation results are expected to be presented at the Regular Meeting of the Board on September 23. If you have questions about the survey or the consultation process, please email [email protected].

31 police recruits welcomed at Badge Ceremony

The Ottawa Police Service hosted a Badge Ceremony on August 22 to formally recognize 31 recruits hired in February 2024. The class was welcomed by Chief Eric Stubbs and Ottawa Police Service Board Chair Salim Fakirani. The ceremony is an important part of recognizing the role of policing in the community and celebrating the individual successes of each officer. The recruit class comes with a wealth of experience from their previous careers. These include Special Constables from Carleton University, OC Transpo and the OPS, and dispatchers with the Ottawa Paramedic Service, Gatineau Paramedic Service, the OPP and the OPS. One recruit is a former CFL player, and some come to the OPS from the Parliamentary Protective Service, the Canadian Armed Forces, and the federal government. While several recruits were raised in Ottawa and Gatineau area, others have ties across Canada and all around the world, including Calgary, Lethbridge, and Montreal, as well as various parts of Ontario like Mississauga, Brockville, Toronto, St. Catharine's, Morrisburg, Kingston, Ancaster, London, and Prescott-Russell County. Internationally, some of the recruits have lived in China, France, the United Kingdom, Türkiye, Pakistan, and Lebanon. In addition to English and French, 12 other languages are spoken by this recruit class. They include Arabic, Farsi, German, Hindi, Pashto, Punjabi, Russian, Tamil, Urdu, Spanish, Vietnamese and some Mandarin Chinese. For more information about the Badge Ceremony, please visit ottawapolice.ca. The Ottawa Police Service is hiring! For career opportunities, visit the Ottawa Police careers website.

Make the Right Call 

www.ottawapolice.ca/en/who-we-are/contact-us.aspx

When to Call 911:

• For crimes in progress and life-threatening emergencies
• You witness a dangerous or impaired driver
• There is a vehicle collision with injuries
• Fire or medical emergency

When to call 613-236-1222. Please listen to the prompts.

• Residential or commercial break and enter
• Missing person
• Suspicious activity or vehicle (drug trafficking in progress)
• Stolen vehicle
• Assault where no medical attention is required
• Animal abuse
• Vehicle collision where no injuries are reported

When to call and make a report with the Ottawa Police Reporting Unit 613-236-1222, extension 7300. Open seven days a week between 10 am and 8:45 pm.

• Alcohol and drug use in public (for example, in city parks)
• Reporting to the police after the fact – an incident has occurred, but no one has remained on scene
• Disputes or harassment (for example, argument with neighbour, stalking, fear for non-immediate safety)
• Sexual assault reported, where there is no longer evidence

When the Ottawa Police Reporting Unit (PRU) is closed between the hours of 9 pm and 10 am, an automated attendant will provide you with options on how to redirect your call.

When to make a report using the Ottawa Police online system at ottawapolice.ca/onlinereporting:

• Theft (excluding theft of passports or other citizenship documents)
• Lost Property (with a visible serial number or distinct marking such as a custom engraving)
• This does not include: cellphones, credit and debit cards; please phone your banking institution or cellphone company
• Mischief/Damage to Property 
• Theft from Vehicle
• Traffic Complaints 
• Drug Complaints (drug trafficking information)
• Fraud Complaints
• Hate-Motivated Incidents
• Add information to an existing report

Crime Stoppers: If you have information about a crime but want to remain completely anonymous, you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at crimestoppers.ca.