February 7, 2025 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
Dear Residents:
As your City Councillor, I am encouraged by the recent commitments during this provincial election campaign from Ontario’s provincial party leaders to reshape the future of transit in our city.
Both Progressive Conservative Leader Doug Ford and Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie pledged this week to upload responsibility for Ottawa’s light rail transit (LRT) network to the Province if elected on February 27. NDP Leader Marit Stiles has pledged to introduce a “new deal for municipalities” which would include a cost-sharing plan where the Province would fund transit agencies like OC Transpo by 50 per cent. These bold promises have the potential to transform Ottawa’s transit system, alleviate financial pressures on the City of Ottawa, and accelerate much-needed infrastructure expansion.
For years, Ottawa has shouldered a disproportionate burden in funding its transit system compared to other major cities in Ontario. While municipalities like Toronto, Hamilton, Mississauga, and Brampton benefit from Provincial support for the capital costs of building and maintaining transit infrastructure, Ottawa taxpayers have been left to cover these expenses entirely. This inequity has placed significant strain on our City’s finances, contributing to OC Transpo’s $120-million deficit and limiting our ability to invest in other critical priorities.
The proposal to upload the LRT to the Province by the Liberals and Conservatives represents a game-changing opportunity for Ottawa. By transferring responsibility for the LRT network to the Province, the City of Ottawa could free up approximately $4 billion over the next 30 years. These funds could be used to improve existing transit services and also be redirected to address pressing local needs, from affordable housing to road maintenance and community services. The proposal by Ontario’s New Democrats also is game-changing, as it would provide funding not only for capital investments but also for OC Transpo regular operations. The principal challenge confronting the provision of transit in Ottawa concerns the rapidly escalating cost of service provision. For this reason, the Mayor and Council continue to advocate for sustainable operating funding from senior levels of government.
While all three proposals have their differences, if any of these promises ultimately become reality, they would help eliminate an enormous amount of financial pressure and risk on Ottawa taxpayers, bringing us closer to achieving our long-term transit and financial goals. The addition of any three of these proposals would be as welcome as the federal government’s announcement last week to provide sustainable funding for Ottawa's transit system in the amount of $180 million over 10 years starting in 2026.
Reducing financial risk will be important as we enter into a new era of economic uncertainty due to the looming threat of U.S. trade tariffs. As reported in the Ottawa Citizen this week (ottawacitizen.com/news/ottawa-trump-tariff-defence-strategy), I noted that it is imperative that “our City and nation oppose the largest economic threat to this nation since the Great Depression." As a member of the Finance and Corporate Services Committee, I wholeheartedly supported a unanimous motion that directed City staff to prepare a local response strategy to any future tariffs imposed on Canada by U.S. President Donald Trump. It will be important for us to demonstrate both local and national resolve in the face of such an unprecedented challenge.
Your Councillor in the Community
Joined my Council colleagues and many community organizations for a well attended presentation of the 2024 homelessness “point-in-time” count, which provides detailed demographics concerning unsheltered Ottawa residents to City staff and social service providers.
Had an amazing time with over 80 City staff members and members of the senior leadership team, who experienced an incredible and very informative Black history bus tour this week, which was impeccably produced by Black History Ottawa, with transport provided by OC Transpo.
Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities
Winter Operations Update
We have had a week, Ottawa! Two weather advisories, a snow squall warning, cold temperatures, wind and snow, but that’s no match for the Roads and Parking Services team! They have been working nonstop and will keep going until the entire transportation network has been treated and cleared. Environment Canada has lifted the Weather Advisory and Snow Squall Warning for the Ottawa region.
Ottawa received approximately 10 centimetres and up to 15 centimetres in localized areas. Flurries ended this morning, and the wind will be 30 kilometres per hour gusting to 50, causing significant blowing and drifting snow in open areas. A daytime high of minus 4 is forecasted and an overnight low of minus 14. Due to localized blowing and drifting snow, the transportation network remains slippery and, in some areas, snow-covered. Residents are reminded to exercise caution when out walking, driving, and cycling.
Crews will continue to treat sidewalks, arterial roads, and the winter cycling network. The team moved into residential neighbourhoods this morning and will continue through the evening to treat and clear streets. The nightshift will pick up where the dayshift left off and they will focus on cleaning up any problem areas such as bus stops, crosswalks, intersections, pedestrian islands, corners and cul de sacs. Some areas of the region will experience significant blowing and drifting snow, which makes it difficult for operators to navigate. Please be patient, as it will take time to get through the transportation network, but rest assured, they will be hard at work.
- You can support their operations by finding off-street parking options. If you can, please ask a friend or neighbour to share their laneway. When vehicles are removed from our streets, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear snow efficiently to create a wide-open roadway.
Snowbank removal operations
My office has been advised that snowbank removal operations are scheduled to begin in the urban core, which includes Ward 13, the evening of Sunday, Feb. 9, once snowplowing operations have concluded following the snow we received this week. Snowbank removal schedules featuring Ward 13 streets will be posted on my website and on my Facebook page once these details become available.
Snowbanks on the City’s transportation network are removed or reduced in size when they begin to restrict sightlines, travel widths, or pedestrian, vehicular, and cycling traffic. Residents are responsible for snowbanks along their private driveway. Snowbank removal operations come secondary to standard snow clearing operations (i.e., when there is a storm, and teams must plow and/or treat roads). If snowbank removal operations are underway and a storm begins or is approaching, teams may temporarily be redeployed to respond to the changing conditions. Snowbank removal operations will resume once clearing and/or treating is complete.
What to expect: Before snowbank removal operations begin, signs will be posted in the snowbanks of streets where operations are scheduled to take place. Parking is prohibited in areas where snow bank removal is taking place and drivers are required to abide by posted signage. Parking permit holders are not exempt from snow removal operations. Failure to remove a vehicle from a zone where temporary no stopping signs are posted will result in a ticket, and the vehicle will be towed to a nearby street.
**Please note: the removal schedule can change due to evolving operational demands and weather challenges, and you may see signs go up and come down if the schedule needs to be adjusted.
Ottawa Family Cinema presents Flow - Feb. 8
O-Train Line 1 full closure - Feb. 9
On Sunday, February 9 from 8 to 11 am, O-Train Line 1 will be fully closed between Blair and Tunney’s Pasture stations for planned Stage 2 work. O-Train Line 1 will resume regular service at 11 am. For details, please visit ottawa.ca.
Manor Park residents are invited come together to celebrate the power of kindness, build lasting friendships, and strengthen our sense of community -- over a warm cup of tea, Tuesday, February 11 in The Studio at 1805 Gaspe. See you at 10 am!
- Heartwarming conversations around kindness and community
- A Valentine’s activity with uplifting surprises
- A “Kindness Pledge” where you can commit to spreading positivity
Whether you're new to the neighborhood or a longtime resident, this event is a wonderful chance to meet new friends, celebrate the season of love, and strengthen the bonds that make our community special. Admission is free. RSVP Today.
The NCC is updating the National Capital Core Area Plan. This is your opportunity to help shape the future of our core area for the next 20 years and to build a capital that is inclusive, picturesque, thriving and well-connected. The NCC wants to hear your thoughts on the themes, concept features, and sectors that will shape our long-term plan. You are invited to view the Core Area Plan’s Story Map and share your thoughts via an online survey. As the NCC continues to receive comments on the updated plan for Canada’s National Capital, they are extending the deadline for submitting survey responses. The online survey will be open until Wednesday, February 12, 2025. They are also accepting feedback through QuestionPro. If you prefer to submit your feedback through QuestionPro, you can complete the survey at this link.
Youth Job Fair - Feb. 13
Date: Thursday, February 13
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Pat Clark Community Centre, 4355 Halmont Dr.
Bring your CV and come meet the teams from:
• Pat Clark & Beacon Hill North
• Dempsey
• Overbrook
• Seasonal Recreation
• Routhier
• Sandy Hill
• Splash Wave Pool
Special Roundtable Discussion in Celebration of Black History Month - Feb. 13
In honour of Black History Month, Ottawa-Vanier MP Mona Fortier is hosting a special roundtable discussion in collaboration with Burundi We Want on February 13, from 2 to 4 pm, at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard. This gathering aims to foster meaningful dialogue and share insights into the rich history and invaluable contributions of Black communities. All African communities in Ottawa-Vanier are invited. This event provides an opportunity for community members to come together, celebrate, and engage in important conversations about our shared history and future.
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
A weekly opportunity for seniors to connect inside the New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse at 203 Stanley Avenue. Join other members of older generations interested in connecting with others of like mind to enhance their social lives. This group meets casually over a cup of tea or coffee and some goodies for conversation and companionship. Activities of the group such as games or walks are chosen by those who attend and may change from week to week. For more information, email: [email protected]
African Day on the Hill gala - Feb. 15
Every year, the Vanier Museopark seeks the help of the community to take part in an essential step in the production of maple syrup at its sugar shack: maple tree tapping. Young and old, families, couples and friends are invited to come to the Richelieu Park forest to tap sugar maple trees in the traditional way: drilling holes in the trees, inserting spigots and hanging buckets to collect maple water, the tree’s sweet sap. For details, please visit museoparc.ca.
- No reservations required: just show up between 9 am and 12 pm on Saturday, February 15, 2025.
- Please bring a wireless drill and charged batteries if you can.
- Dress appropriately for the weather.
- A quick training session on tree tapping and forest orientation will be offered every hour on the hour.
- Pea soup will be served at the Vanier Sugar Shack after the tree-tapping event to thank our participants for their efforts!
- Limited free parking at Centre Richelieu-Vanier (300, av. des Pères-Blancs). Take the pathway near the library to get directly to the sugar shack.
New Edinburgh Family Day Rink Fest - Feb. 17
Ottawa Regional Anti-Racism Education Summit - Feb. 18
As the first in a series of four regional summits across Ontario, the Ottawa Regional Anti-Racism Education Summit will engage educators, parents, students, and community leaders in strategizing actionable solutions to advance equity within K-12 education. Findings from the summit will contribute to a comprehensive report to advocate for provincial policy reform. For more information and tickets, please visit Eventbrite.
Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Location: Richelieu Vanier Community Centre, Kiwanis Hall, 300 Pères-Blancs Ave.
Start your day with inspiration and connection at Volunteer Ottawa’s 2nd Annual Community Breakfast! We’re inviting people who love Ottawa’s charities and non-profits to enjoy a continental breakfast, learn about VO’s programs and services, and connect with other people working to make Ottawa a better place for everyone. For more information and for tickets, please visit Volunteer Ottawa’s website.
Where: Rideau Hub Cafeteria, 815 St Laurent Blvd.
On Sunday, February 23 - and following a successful inaugural event last year - the Rideau Winter Trail team will be hosting their second Loppet. Starting in front of the Rideau Sports Centre at 10 am, participants can choose between a 2 km or 11 km loop (non-timed). All ages are welcome to join in the fun. Registration includes snacks, hot drinks - and lots of fun! Participants also get 15% off lunch at The Bridge Public House (in the Rideau Sports Centre), following the Loppet. For more information, and to register, please visit zone4.ca. If you are unsure what a loppet is all about, Cross Country Canada defines it as “a great gathering of skiers who ski on a specifically groomed trail." Details: www.rideauwintertrail.ca/rwt-loppet
Celebrating Canadian Veterans and Their Passions - A Special Series by Beechwood in Partnership with Perley Health - Feb. 25
- Date: February 25, 2025
- Time: 6:30 PM
- Location: Beechwood National Memorial Centre, Beechwood Cemetery
Beechwood, in partnership with the Perley Health Foundation, is proud to launch a new series honouring Canadian veterans and the passions that define their legacies. This series seeks to welcome veterans, share their remarkable stories, and highlight the talents and passions that continue to inspire us all. This inaugural event features WWII veteran and celebrated artist Roland Lalonde. Join us as we explore Mr. Lalonde’s vivid artistic interpretations of his experiences in Europe. Alongside his artwork, Mr. Lalonde will share personal reflections on his journey, providing a heartfelt and inspiring look at the impact of his service and his passion for art. This is more than an art exhibit—it’s an opportunity to celebrate the lives and stories of those who served, fostering a deeper connection to their history and their passions. RSVP Required. To RSVP please click here or for more information or to confirm your attendance via email, please contact [email protected] or [email protected].
St. Laurent Library branch programming - February
English Book Club featuring Snow Road Station on Feb. 27 from 10 am to 12 pm
Game Afternoons - Feb. 19 from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Play board games and more. (walk-in program)
Drop-in adult programs
- English Conversation Group - Thursdays 6:30 - 8 pm
- Groupe de conversation en français - Les mardis 18 h 30 - 20 h
-
Free movie nights
- Feb. 24 at 6 pm: Avant les rues (in French)
- Knitting & Crochet Club - Tuesdays from 1 to 3 pm
Drop-in children's programs
- Family Storytime in English - Mondays at 10:30 am
- Babytime - Tuesdays at 10:30 am
- Contes en famille in French - Wednesdays at 10:30 am
- Homework club for ages 6 to 12 - Wednesdays at 5 pm
- Valentine's Day Craft - Feb. 13 at 3:30 pm
- Watch a movie, featuring Elemental (in English) - Feb. 14 at 2 pm
Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hub services in Ward 13 - February
Drop by the Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hub located at The Rideau Community Hub at 815 St. Laurent Boulevard for employment and social services, Aging Well in Ottawa programming, vaccinations and free dental screenings. For details and the schedule, please visit ottawapublichealth.ca.
- The Rideau Community Hub - Feb. 26 from 9:30 to 11:30 am
- ACB Centre - Feb. 19 from 1 to 3 pm
- The Rideau Community Hub - March 12 from 9:30 am to 11:30 am
City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities
On the road, even a brief distraction can be costly
Taking your focus away from the road, even for the briefest glance, can have serious consequences. While it may be tempting to check your phone to see who just sent you that text, it can wait. In Ottawa between 2019 and 2023, 61 per cent of fatal and major injury collisions involved high-risk driving behaviour. In addition to the harm you might cause to yourself or someone else, you could also face legal penalties. For drivers with an A to G licence, a first conviction for distracted driving includes a fine of up to $1,000, three demerit points and a three-day licence suspension. For a first conviction for novice drivers (with an M1, M2, G1 or G2 class licence) the suspension is 30 days. So, please, stay focused on the road. Every text can wait. For details, please visit ottawa.ca.
Winterlude - Until Feb. 17
February is Black History Month
Join Chnge Mker for their Demo Day, the annual showcase of entrepreneurial talent from the Chnge Mker Innovation Hub’s Incubator Program! Explore innovative products and services created by local Black entrepreneurs and connect with the creative minds behind them. This event offers a unique opportunity to network, collaborate, and be inspired by Ottawa’s vibrant entrepreneurial community. The Chnge Mker Innovation Hub is the first of its kind in Ottawa, dedicated to fostering innovation in the heart of the ByWard Market. The event will be held at Gallery 55, 55 ByWard Market Square on the 2nd Floor. For details, please visit www.byward-market.com.
Governor General’s Foot Guards Youth Awards - Applications due by Feb. 9
The Governor General’s Foot Guards (GGFG) believe in the potential of Ottawa/Outaouis youth. This year, in cooperation with like-minded civic partners, the GGFGs are delighted to present four $2,500 awards to youth whose ability, hard work and perseverance merits special recognition. They seek to celebrate and incentivize high-performing young people in the Ottawa region as they pursue educational advancement or skills development. Application criteria is available on the GGFG website. Email submissions to [email protected] are requested no later than February 9, 2025.
Recreation Program & Summer Camp Registration Dates
- Tuesday, February 11: spring swimming and aquatics registration opens online at 9 pm
- Thursday, February 13: spring recreation, arts and virtual activities registration opens online at 9 pm
- Thursday, February 27: summer camp registration opens online at 9 pm
Black History in Ottawa Streets Evening Speaker Series - Feb. 12
Join the Vice President of Black History Ottawa, Jean-Marie Guerrier, for this evening series on Zoom where you will learn about the impact and outstanding contributions of Black Canadians to our city. Everyone is invited to explore the narratives of resilience, creativity, and leadership that have defined Ottawa. The speaker series offers an unforgettable opportunity to celebrate and honour the diverse voices that have helped shape the city. The event takes place on Feb. 12 at 7 pm. For details and to register, please visit www.historicalsocietyottawa.ca.
NCC Urbanism Lab: Heritage in the Future Lunch & Learn event - Feb. 13
Join the NCC for an insightful “lunch and learn event” on the future of heritage conservation. This event explores how adaptive reuse can help foster innovation in housing development and bring diverse perspectives to the table. Hear from industry leaders as we discuss the challenges and opportunities of repurposing historic buildings. Learn about environmental benefits such as how reusing and retrofitting heritage structures can reduce waste, lower carbon emissions, and conserve resources supporting sustainable urban growth. The event takes place Feb. 13 from 12 to 1:30 pm at 40 Elgin Street, 2nd Floor. Register here: ncc-ccn.gc.ca
Small Business Survey - Open until Feb. 14
If you own or manage a business in Ottawa, the City wants to hear from you. The City of Ottawa is conducting a survey to better understand how it can respond to the needs of small businesses and capitalize on opportunities for economic growth and prosperity. Please complete the Ottawa Small Business Survey on the City’s Engage Ottawa site by Friday, February 14.
On February 14 enjoy an exceptional evening in support of Unique FM, Ottawa’s only French-speaking community radio station. This first edition promises you an unforgettable experience with:
- An intimate show by artist Yao.
- A 5-course gourmet meal, specially designed for the occasion.
- A tasting of carefully selected wines.
- Exclusive gifts for guests.
Reserve your tickets now: unique-fm.s1.yapla.com/fr/event-61958
Time: 4:30 pm (Doors Open)
Location: Sir John A. Macdonald Hall, Ballroom 100, 144 Wellington St, Ottawa, ON
Dress Code: Formal
Entry Requirements: Valid Government ID or Student ID, (Registration REQUIRED)
Family Day Skating Party - Feb. 17
The City of Ottawa and Capital Heritage Connexion are thrilled to invite you to Heritage Day 2025, celebrating with the theme: "Heritage Champions: Crafting a Legacy of Preservation and Innovation." It’s a time to come together and honour the incredible work being done to preserve Ottawa’s rich and diverse history! The event takes place Feb. 18, noon to 2 pm. This is an in-person event at Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West. Admission is free. Come explore the vibrant heritage community of Ottawa! Local historical societies, museums, and heritage organizations will be featured in Jean Pigott Hall before and after the official ceremony at noon. You’ll have the opportunity to meet heritage professionals and volunteers, ask questions, and plan your next cultural adventure. For more information, please visit ottawa.ca. Additional details are available at heritageottawa.org/heritage-day.
Public engagement and communication review - Survey is available until Feb. 21
The City of Ottawa is refreshing its communications to better serve you. Whether it's through social media, email updates, or public engagement opportunities, staff want to hear your feedback on how they communicate with you. Complete a short survey about how you prefer to hear from us. The survey will close on Friday, February 21. Your feedback will help shape our efforts to improve communications from our central social media channels and newsletters. To complete the survey, please visit Engage Ottawa.
Spaces are limited, so be sure to register early to secure your spot: www.eventbrite.ca
Join the Zonta Club of Ottawa for The Shawshank Redemption - Feb. 23
Join the Zonta Club as it celebrates its 95th anniversary and support the club's 2025 education awards for women and girls. Enjoy an exclusive preview performance of ‘The Shawshank Redemption’ presented by Ottawa Little Theatre & Zonta Club of Ottawa, Canada. Get ready to be captivated by this timeless classic brought to life on stage. Taking place at the Ottawa Little Theatre, 400 King Edward Avenue on Feb. 23 from 2 to 4:30 pm. Doors open at 1:20 pm. The proceeds from this preview performance will support the Zonta Club of Ottawa, Canada’s annual education awards and bursaries program for high-school and post-secondary girls and women in the National Capital Region. Tickets are available at zontaottawa.ca.
Get involved in your city: join a committee or board - Applications due by Feb. 27
- Ottawa Board of Health (1 position)
- Committee of Adjustment (reserves)
- Rogers Centre Ottawa – Board of Directors (1 position and reserves)
- Accessibility Advisory Committee (1 position and reserves)
- Community Safety and Well-being Advisory Committee (2 positions)
- French Language Services Advisory Committee (2 positions, and reserves)
- Planning Advisory Committee (Landscape Architect position)
These volunteer positions are opportunities for qualified residents to provide their expertise, knowledge and lived experience to advise on the City’s work. Applications must be submitted by Thursday, February 27 at 4:30 pm. For more information or to submit your application, visit the Join a committee or board page. A virtual question and answer session will be held on Thursday, February 6, at 6 pm as part of this mid-term recruitment drive. The information session recording will be available on YouTube after February 6. It will include a brief overview of the recruitment process and the steps to apply. It will also include questions from participants and the answers provided by recruitment staff. Email [email protected] or call 613-580-2424, ext. 28136, for more information.
Administrative Penalty System Hearing Officers – paid, part-time appointments: A concurrent recruitment drive for Administrative Penalty System Hearing Officer is also ongoing. These adjudicator positions are paid, part-time appointments. Visit Become a Hearing Officer on ottawa.ca.to access the online application and more information – including submission deadlines.
Awesome Authors Contest - Submissions due Feb. 28
Until February 28, budding Ottawa writers between the ages of 9 and 18 have the incredible opportunity to enter the 2025 Awesome Authors contest organized by the Ottawa Public Library. Entries are accepted in the following categories: short story, poetry, comic, nouvelle, poésie, and bande dessinée. For the past several years, OPL has added a special touch to the contest with the “book cover” category, which gives youth free rein to illustrate the cover of the anthology of winning entries. For those who are passionate about drawing and illustration, the “book cover” category is an opportunity to showcase their hidden talent. As in previous years, the contest judges—Catherine Austen, Apollo the Child, Amelinda Bérubé, Pierre-Luc Bélanger and Éric Péladeau—will be hosting writing workshops where participants can gain valuable insights into the fundamentals of writing and explore various literary genres. Workshops will be held online and at OPL branches. For more information about the Awesome Authors contest, criteria and other details, visit the Awesome Authors youth writing contest web page.
Community partnership major capital program - Grant applications due March 1
The City of Ottawa's Community Partnership Major Capital Program is an initiative to implement major capital improvements and additions to facilities related to parks and recreation on a cost-sharing basis between the City and community groups. The project may relate to an asset that is owned by the City, or operated by a community partner who delivers service on behalf of the City or assists the City in the delivery of programs and services. The funding program applies to major capital programs for new facilities, renovations and expansions. It will only apply to fixed assets. It will not fund other components such as furniture, equipment, feasibility or fundraising studies.
What projects are eligible?
- Major capital projects for new facilities, renovations and expansions that result in the development of fixed assets relating to parks and recreation located within the City of Ottawa.
- The project may relate to an asset that is owned by the City, or operated by a community partner who delivers service on behalf of the City or assists the City in the delivery of programs and services.
The deadline date for submitting proposals is March 1 at 3 pm. For more information and to apply, please visit ottawa.ca.
Young At Art - Submissions due by March 6
Calling all young visual artists in Ottawa: step into the spotlight and let your art shine! The City of Ottawa's Young at Art program is a professionally assessed art exhibition that brings the work of talented young visual artists between the ages of 12 and 19 to local art galleries. Selected works are displayed and are eligible for several awards. Submit your artwork by 1 pm on March 6, 2025.
Public Information about Accessibility Features in Parks Survey – Open Until March 6
City parks are important community assets that provide residents with opportunities for leisure, sport and play. Over the last several years, the City has included many enhancements to its parks to make play in our playgrounds more inclusive, and to provide park features that are more accessible for everyone to enjoy. Staff are seeking your input to learn what accessibility features you would like to know about when visiting City of Ottawa parks. Staff also want to know how you would like to access this information. The information you provide will be used to develop options for providing residents with information related to accessibility features in new and existing parks. The survey is open until March 6 at Engage Ottawa.
Vacant Unit Tax property status declarations - due March 20, 2025
Homeowners are reminded to complete their Vacant Unit Tax (VUT) declaration for each residential property they own before the March 20 deadline. A $250 late fee will be applied to declarations submitted after the deadline.
To complete the declaration, visit ottawa.ca/vut:
- Click “Submit your declaration now”
- Log on with roll number and access code (found on last year’s property tax bill or information notices that were sent by email or Canada Post)
Residents registered with My SeviceOttawa can go directly to the declaration from their property tax account. Notices will be sent to property owners in January, with email delivery used whenever possible.
Alternate and accessible declaration options are available.
By phone (Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm):
- Call 613-580-2444 and select option 3 where an agent will help complete your declaration over the phone
- Call 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service
- In-person: Visit any City Client Service Centre. Visit ottawa.ca/csc for locations and business hours.
Grants available for community environmental projects - Deadline is March 31
The City of Ottawa is now accepting applications for the 2025 Community Environmental Projects Grant Program. This grant program provides funding to non-profit organizations interested in undertaking small-scale, community-based initiatives that support an environmentally sustainable Ottawa. This year’s application deadline is Monday, March 31 at 4 pm. Grant recipients must complete their projects by June 30, 2026. For details about eligibility, the application process, profiles of past projects and to complete an application form, please visit Community Environmental Projects Grant Program
Emergency Services News
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.