July 11, 2025 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
Your Councillor in the Community
Great to join my Council colleagues at the Khalsa Aid Canada Leadership Forum & Gala last weekend to congratulate the charity, along with its partners for its amazing community initiatives, including a record breaking food drive for the Ottawa Food Bank.
It was a pleasure to meet His Excellency Pete Hoekstra, U.S. Ambassador to Canada, during Independence Day celebrations in Rockcliffe Park last week.
Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities
Movie Night in Wateridge Village - July 12
Canada Lands Company is hosting a movie night for Wateridge Village residents in Alliance Park on July 12, featuring Minecraft (in French). Pre-movie activities for kids begin at 8 pm and the movie starts at 9 pm. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and water bottles. Popcorn will be provided.
A Company of Fools Theatre presents The Comedy of Errors in parks across Ottawa this summer
The Fools are back on tour!! Join A Company of Fools for their 7-week Shakespearean summer marathon, featuring The Comedy of Errors! Be among the first visitors to their Foolish Mushroom Kingdom and prepare to laugh ‘til you fall out of your lawn chair. Here’s where they'll be playing this coming week near Ward 13:
- July 12 - Beechwood Cemetery
- July 14 -Strathcona Park
- July 21 - Strathcona
- July 26 - Stanley Park
- July 28 - Strathcona Park
- August 4 - Strathcona Park
- August 11 - Strathcona Park
Overbrook residents with heat pumps needed for local showcase
Do you have a heat pump in your home? The Overbrook Community Association is looking for Overbrook residents to volunteer for a local Heat Pump Showcase which is being organized by the Overbrook Community Association, Electrify613 and For Our Kids. It’s a great opportunity to share your experience, help demystify heat pumps, and support others in the community to learn about how to use heat pumps for a more comfortable, healthier and sustainable home. All types of homes are encouraged to participate including new, old, single family, multi-unit, duplex, townhouse etc. What’s involved? You’ll talk to neighbours in front of your home about your system, how it works, and what you’ve learned. The OCA will support you every step of the way and make sure everything runs smoothly. Next Steps: If you’re interested or want to learn more, please email Michael Shoesmith at [email protected]. Thank you for helping to build a more sustainable community!
NCC approves National Capital Core Area Plan
The National Capital Commission (NCC) has published its updated National Capital Core Area Plan, a framework outlining the development strategy for Canada’s national capital over the next 25 years. Three primary strategic objectives form the foundation of the Core Area Plan: orienting development toward waterfront areas to maximize the capital’s natural assets, establishing enhanced public spaces to serve residents and visitors, and improving connectivity to strengthen links between neighbourhoods and key destinations. These objectives are incorporated throughout the plan’s physical concept, which identifies opportunities to utilize waterfront locations, address gaps in the capital’s urban infrastructure, and develop street networks. The plan proposes conceptual projects to address the downtown core while considering climate resilience, economic development, public accessibility, housing, and reconciliation. Over the next year, the NCC will develop specific sector plans based on the Core Area Plan’s objectives and ideas. Concerns have been raised regarding proposed development plans in the Core Area Plan by local residents. Residents can continue to provide input to the NCC through its ongoing public consultation processes as they continue to refine their plans. Details are available at ncc-ccn.gc.ca
A Fundraising Feast Beneath the Trees
Step into a twilight dream under the canopy of Beechwood’s storied trees, where candlelight flickers, laughter drifts on the breeze, and generosity takes root. Partage Beechwood is no ordinary dinner — it’s a spellbinding evening of food, community, and purpose, hosted by the Vanier BIA alongside Beechwood Cemetery, The National Cemetery of Canada and the Vanier Community Service Centre, with the support of many kind-hearted sponsors. The event takes place August 20 from 5:30 to 10 pm at 280 Beechwood Avenue. Tickets are on sale now.
Vanier BIA AKOUSTIK at St. Charles Market - July 16, 23, 30
Join the Vanier BIA this summer for AKOUSTIK , a FREE outdoor live music event at the St. Charles Market at the corner of Beechwood Avenue and St. Charles Street. Live music, warm evenings, and local talent—this free outdoor concert series brings the rhythm of summer to Vanier from July to September. Enjoy takeout from your favourite local spots with special AKOUSTIC meal deals! For details and updates, please visit vanierbia.com/akoustik.
- Wednesdays 6pm – 8pm • St. Charles Market
- Dates: July 16, 23, 30 • August 13, 27 • September 3, 10, 17
Pints in the Park - July 19
The Manor Park Community Council is hosting its SIXTH Annual Pints in the Park for 2025, featuring beer, food and music! Manor Park's favourite community event is an outdoor, adult-focused but family-friendly afternoon featuring cold pints served by local craft breweries - plus delicious local eats & treats, and live music. This inclusive event welcomes everyone from across the city. The event - and community centre - are fully accessible. July 19, from 2:00 - 7:00 PM at 100 Thornwood Road Free admission. All welcome. Accessible site (flat grass) and washrooms. Credit & debit card only for beverage sales. Details: manorpark.ca
Free Back-to-School Supplies - until August 1
Rideau-Rockcliffe residents are invited to register to receive back-to-school supplies before August 1 for students in kindergarten to Grade 12. Open to families with postal codes K1K, K1M and some K1G. Register online here.
Swimming at the NCC River House - until Sept. 1
Until September 1, the swimming area is open daily from 7:30 am to sunset. The River House, at 501 Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway, offers universally accessible changerooms with showers, lockers (bring your own lock) and a change table, making it the perfect pit stop during a nice bike ride. Details: ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places/ncc-river-house
This summer, discover Ingenium museums with the Canada Strong Pass
This summer, the new Canada Strong Pass program is offering free and discounted access for children and youth to cultural and heritage institutions across the country—including right here in Ottawa at all three Ingenium museums. From June 20 to September 2, 2025, the program offers free admission for children and youths under 17, and 50% off admission for young adults aged 18 to 24. The Canada Strong Pass is designed to offer Canadians more opportunities for discovery and to make cultural learning more accessible to families. Locally, this includes free access to all three Ingenium museums, including the Canada Aviation and Space Museum in Rideau–Rockcliffe Ward. Visitors will enjoy a range of enriching experiences through the Canada Strong Pass—a gateway to exploring Canada’s rich legacy of science and innovation. This initiative echoes a powerful moment of Canadian unity and national pride that’s resonating around the country. Details: tickets.ingenium.ca/discounts
Please be aware that Enbridge Gas will be replacing natural gas pipelines in our ward with a new 16-inch gas main. This work is scheduled to take place beginning the week of June 23 to October 2025 and will include overnight and weekend work. The traffic management plan requires periodic lane closures along the length of Coventry Road from the Vanier Parkway, around the St. Laurent Shopping Centre, to the intersection of Ogilvie Road and Cummings Avenue. Access to area homes and businesses will be maintained. During the duration of this work, area residents may experience traffic detours, sidewalk closures, and construction noise. Some customers may experience short-term disruptions to their natural gas service but will be notified of this in advance by Enbridge representatives. Project updates: www.enbridgegas.com
City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities
Celebrating Gloucester's 175th Anniversary - July 13
The Gloucester Historical Society is celebrating the 175th anniversary of Gloucester’s incorporation as a township in 1850 – and you’re invited! This free event will be held at the Billings Estate National Historic Site (2100 Cabot Street, Ottawa) on Sunday, July 13, 2025, from 1 to 4 pm. There will be displays and entertainment, a trivia contest with prizes and, of course, cake. Entry to the Billings Museum is included. Everyone is welcome!
Now Recruiting: Power Wheelchair Hockey Players in Ottawa!
Do you know someone who uses a power wheelchair and is looking to get active, have fun, and be part of a team? The Ottawa Power Wheelchair Hockey League (OPWHL) is currently recruiting new players for its 2025–2026 season! Games are held Sunday afternoons at Greenboro Community Centre, and all hockey equipment is provided. No experience necessary – just bring your energy and interest. To learn more or register, visit www.facebook.com/Opwhl or email [email protected].
Private Approach Bylaw Review - Residents invited to submit questions
The City of Ottawa is conducting a review and update of the Private Approach By-law, which regulates the construction, use and maintenance of private approaches in the city. A private approach is the part of a vehicle access to private property that is on the City’s right of way (i.e. the portion of a driveway that is on City property). Existing rules for driveways and permits can be found on ottawa.ca/driveways. The updated by-law will set the rules for how driveways cross City land, covering design details, permits and maintenance, while also creating clear direction for walkways. These rules will be consistent with the new Zoning By-law. The City is checking its internal processes to ensure permitting is handled smoothly. Review of the technical aspects of the by-law will continue through the fall. Residents will have an opportunity to hear about the updated by-law and give feedback before staff bring their final recommendations to the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee in 2026. City staff welcome the opportunity to answer your questions related to this review. Please send questions through the online tool and staff will get back to you.
5th annual Cara's Kegger - July 19 in Pakenham; auction opens July 13
The Kelly family is hosting the 5th annual Cara's Kegger, a fundraiser for Roger Neilson Children's Hospice in Pakenham on July 19. Cara’s Kegger was proud to donate over $23,000 to Roger Neilson Children’s Hospice last year. To date, the family has ow raised a total of over $56,000 for Roger Neilson Children’s Hospice, in Cara’s memory. Just as important as raising funding for Roger Neilson Children's Hospice, is raising awareness of all the good that they do for children and youth with life-limiting conditions and their families living in Ottawa and the surrounding areas. All funding that raised from the auction, the donor drive and the event itself is donated to Roger Neilson Children's Hospice in Cara's memory. The auction opens July 13. Learn more about Cara at www.caraskegger.ca.
Angelman Syndrome Conference - July 14 to 16
The Angelman Syndrome Foundation of Canada is hosting a three-day ASF Hope on the Hill Conference from July 14 to 16 in Ottawa. For the full schedule, please visit www.angelmancanada.org/conference-schedule. Angelman Syndrome (AS) is a rare and complex neurological disorder affecting approximately 1 in 15,000 live births. Common characteristics of AS include developmental delay, movement or balance disorder, behavioural uniqueness, such as frequent laughter/smiling, and speech impairment. For more information, please visit www.angelmancanada.org/about-angelman-syndrome.
Rain Ready Webinar - Applying for Rain Ready Ottawa Rebates - July 15
Looking for a step-by-step guide to applying for Rain Ready Ottawa rebates? This webinar will walk you through the full application process. The webinar, hosted by EnviroCentre, takes place July 15 from 7 to 8 pm. You’ll learn how to:
- Access and complete the required forms
- Understand the eligibility and documentation requirements
- Find and work with a certified Fusion Landscape Professional
- Prepare your project for review and approval
This session is ideal for residents interested in implementing stormwater management projects on their property and navigating the rebate application with clarity. For details, visit Eventbrite.
Annual Community Engagement Session on the City’s Ongoing Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDIB) Initiatives - July 16
The Community and Social Services’ Equity Team is hosting the annual Community Engagement Sessions for the City’s Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDIB) Framework, and everyone is welcome to attend! These sessions will provide an update and an opportunity for feedback on the EDIB Framework, with a focus on the community-facing priorities on the Anti-Racism Strategy and Women and Gender Equity Strategy. The sessions will be taking place in an accessible environment with panellists from various City departments to highlight their work of advancing racial and gender equity and create an open dialogue on how the City moves forward on developing the EDIB Framework.
You can register for the next session here.
Session 2 Focus: Women and Gender Equity Strategy
Date: July 16
Time: 1 to 3 pm
Location: Ben Franklin Place Chambers, 101 Centrepointe Dr, Nepean
ByWard Market redesign consultation - feedback welcome until July 16
Residents are invited to share their thoughts on the upcoming redesign of William Street and ByWard Market Square until July 16. As the City continues to invest in the ByWard Market we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine the area and ensure its long-term success. ByWard Market’s public spaces are being redesigned to create high-quality public space that invites everyone to experience the magic of the ByWard Market. The new design will feature:
- Attractive amenities like interactive illumination, a lush tree canopy, and captivating art installations.
- More seasonal events, outdoor markets, and patios.
- A focus on safety, comfort, and walkability to prioritize the visitor experience.
Complete the online survey by July 16. Visit Engage Ottawa to learn more about the project and have your say.
Digital Mapping Tool Will Improve Ottawa’s Traffic Infrastructure
The Goal: To create a comprehensive digital inventory of Ottawa’s traffic infrastructure, including:
- Street signs
- Traffic signals
- Pavement markings
- Streetlights
- Pedestrian crossovers
- And more
Think of it like Google Street View—but dedicated to the infrastructure that keeps our streets safe and moving. Why It Matters: Having a detailed, up-to-date digital inventory helps City staff plan, install, and maintain traffic assets more efficiently. The data collected will also feed into Ottawa’s Digital Twin—a cutting-edge 3D model of the city that supports smarter planning and decision-making. You can already explore parts of the Digital Twin on Engage Ottawa where it is being used to help develop the New Zoning Bylaw. The digital twin and reality capture program also helps professionals like planners, architects, and emergency services who use it regularly to support their work. For more information about this initiative and privacy protection, visit the project page.
Development On-Site Signs Policy Update 2025 - Survey open until July 23
As part of the Development Sign Policy update, the City of Ottawa is reviewing the process for development on-site sign installations. For details and to complete the survey before July 23, please visit Engage Ottawa.
10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan Refresh - Survey available until July 25
Every municipality in Ontario is required to have a 10-Year Plan and to review and update it every five years. The City’s 10-Year Plan was approved by Council in June, 2020, so the mid-point review is underway. The review includes:
- Assessing the current and future housing needs
- Creating objectives and targets to meet the housing needs
- Reviewing how we’ll achieve the plan’s goals
- Determining how we’ll measure progress
Engagement and Project Updates: Throughout the mid-point refresh for the 10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan, staff will be looking for input from residents and providing updates on the project. The survey is open until July 25.
Yellow Bag Program for Small Businesses Survey - Open until July 25
The City of Ottawa is reviewing waste collection services provided to small businesses to determine the future of the Yellow Bag Program following recent and upcoming changes impacting waste and recycling collection for small businesses. Engagement with business owners currently receiving municipal waste collection as part of the Yellow Bag Program for Small Businesses is being undertaken to understand potential opportunities and waste challenges for this program. Feedback will be used to help inform the recommendations for the future of the program. Solid Waste Services staff have launched a survey shared via email with small business owners registered for the Yellow Bag Program. The survey is available for these business owners to complete until July 25, 2025. Note: This program review excludes the residential Yellow Bag Program for households exceeding the Three-Item Garbage Limit.
O-Train Line 1 affected by planned integration works in July
O-Train Line 1 service will be affected on some weekends in July as planned integration work continues for the O-Train East extension. The following service adjustments are planned this month:
-
On Saturday, July 26 and Sunday, July 27:
- O-Train Line 1 will be fully closed all weekend.
- R1 bus service will run between Tunney’s Pasture and Blair stations.
Every effort is being made to minimize customer impacts while the O-Train East extension testing and commissioning continues through the summer. Activities have been scheduled to avoid major events in July like Canada Day and Bluesfest. OC Transpo staff will be at key stations to support customers during their trips. For updates and trip planning assistance, visit octranspo.com.
O-Train Line 2 service adjustments in July
From July 14 to 15, July 21 to July 25, and July 28 to August 2, after 8 pm, Line 2 train frequency will be reduced for monitoring equipment to be installed near South Keys Station. For details, visit octranspo.com.
Fall recreation programming dates - view programs online July 29
- View online on July 29.
-
Register online for:
- Fall swimming activities August 12 at 9 pm.
- All fall activities August 14 at 9 pm.
Take a look at what’s on offer and register today at register.ottawa.ca
Rain Ready DIY Stormwater Assessment Webinar - July 29
EnviroCentre hosts a Rain Ready Ottawa webinar on July 29, from 7 to 8 pm. Want to prevent water pooling or flooding around your home? Assessing your home to improve stormwater management is easier than you think! You'll learn how to:
- Identify where water flows and collects on your lot.
- Understand how it can impact your home and the environment.
- Choose the most effective stormwater solutions for your conditions.
Join us for this practical webinar to learn how to look at your yard with a new lens! For details and to register, visit Eventbrite.
Teen Staycation – free literacy and learning activities for teens – until August 30
From June 26 to August 30, Ottawa Public Library (OPL) is excited to offer a wide range of free literacy and learning activities for teens—both online and in branches. It’s a perfect opportunity to explore new interests, gain valuable skills, and connect with new friends during the summer break! This year, OPL is expanding its teen programming with a greater focus on life skills development, helping teens build confidence and practical knowledge through fun, hands-on experiences. Registration is now open! Teens can now browse through the Teen Staycation programs and sign up for the ones that spark their interest. For details, please visit collections.biblioottawalibrary.ca.
The Tony Graham Youth Workout Pass - valid until August 31
This summer, Ottawa's youth have an exciting opportunity to stay active and healthy, thanks to the Tony Graham Youth Workout Pass. Now in its third year, this initiative is part of a ten-year partnership between Tony Graham Automotive Group and the City of Ottawa, aimed at investing in recreation programming for youth across our city. The Tony Graham Youth Workout Pass offers a free weight and cardio-room membership to Ottawa youth aged 13 to 17. This pass is valid from July 2 to August 31, providing a fantastic chance for young residents to engage in physical activity during the summer months. Participating facilities include the St. Laurent Complex in Ward 13. For details, please visit ottawa.ca.
Support The Ottawa Cancer Foundation Through Lemonade Standemonium - until August 31
This summer, kids, families, businesses, and communities across Ottawa are coming together for a fun and meaningful way to support families affected by cancer—by running lemonade stands! Whether you're hosting your own stand or supporting one in your neighbourhood, you’re helping raise critical funds for the programs and services offered by The Ottawa Cancer Foundation. Individuals, schools, families and community groups are invited to set up lemonade stands to raise funds for The Ottawa Cancer Foundation, with 100 per cent of proceeds going towards free services for those affected by cancer. This initiative is a great way to bring people together, build youth leadership, and inspire compassion through a simple act. Lemonade Standemonium runs until August 31. For details, please visit support.ottawacancer.ca
Emergency Services News
Warning: New twist in bank investigator scam impersonating Ottawa Police
The Ottawa Police Service Organized Fraud Unit is warning the public about a new variation of the ongoing bank investigator scam. In a concerning new variation, suspects are now sending emails to victims, claiming to be investigators with the Ottawa Police Service (OPS). The emails falsely state that OPS officers will retrieve the victim’s bank cards. These fraudulent emails often come from Gmail addresses, such as [email protected], and may use language designed to appear official. The OPS reminds the public that legitimate police officers or financial institutions will never request personal banking information, nor will they ask for bank cards to be picked up from your home. For details, please visit ottawapolice.ca.
Enhanced police presence in ByWard Market and Downtown Rideau this summer
Residents and visitors can expect an increased police presence in the ByWard Market and Downtown Rideau areas throughout the summer, as part of a focused initiative to address crime and social disorder. Frontline and Neighbourhood Resource Team officers will be actively patrolling these areas in collaboration with partners from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, OC Transpo, and the City of Ottawa’s By-law and Regulatory Services. Officers will maintain a zero-tolerance approach to disorderly behaviour, including offences under the Liquor Licence and Control Act, criminal activity, and aggressive panhandling — all of which can negatively affect the community experience for residents, businesses, and tourists. For more information, please visit ottawapolice.ca.
Intimate Partner Violence reports increase in Ottawa
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) continues to prioritize Violence Against Women and Gender-Based Violence. In our continued commitment to bring awareness to the increased rates of violence against women in our city, in January, we announced that the OPS will release annual and semi-annual statistics on Intimate Partner Violence. As such, this is the first semi-annual report of Ottawa IPV statistics. The Ottawa Police Service experienced an increase of 9% in reports in the first six months of 2025 compared to the same period of 2024.
Help is available
If you are experiencing intimate partner violence, please know that help is available, and there are people who care and want to support you. No one deserves to be harmed, controlled, or made to feel afraid. We encourage you to reach out—to police, to shelters, to crisis lines—when you are ready. Your safety matters, and we will do everything we can to support you. For more information, please visit ottawapolice.ca.
Ottawa Police Service 2024 Annual Report
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has released its 2024 Annual Report, highlighting a year of significant operational activity, strategic growth, and continued work to strengthen community trust and safety.
The report outlines key achievements in service delivery, member support, and public safety, as OPS managed hundreds of demonstrations, responded to major incidents, and advanced several organizational priorities.
Progress in 2024 included:
- The hiring of 134 new sworn officers—the largest intake in OPS history—with further recruitment planned for 2025.
- Continued rollout of the District Policing model
- Ongoing construction of the South Facility, which will improve service capabilities across the city.
- The introduction of new specialized units, including a Parliamentary District, Mounted Unit, and Helicopter Program.
- Expansion of the Special Constable pilot program to provide added support to frontline operations.
- Targeted enforcement and safety efforts guided by the CORE Strategy, delivering strong results in areas like the ByWard Market.
- Major investigative successes, including Project Champion and other high-impact joint operations with our law enforcement partners targeting organized crime and gang activity.
Key Statistics from 2024:
- Over 378,200 demands for service were received through both calls for service and online reporting—12% lower than in 2023 (427,500) and 1% higher than the five-year average (373,300).
- 50,600 Criminal Code offences reported (excluding traffic), a 5% increase year-over-year.
- 26% clearance rate for reported offences, down slightly from 28% in 2023.
- Crime Severity Index (CSI) rose 2% to 55; Non-Violent CSI increased 3%, while Violent CSI remained stable.
- Violent crime increased by 1%, led by more assaults, sexual offences, and deaths.
- Property-related offences rose by 6%, primarily theft and fraud; motor vehicle thefts declined by 21%.
- 21 homicide incidents, with 26 victims; 16 cases have been solved.
- Shootings dropped by 27%, from 73 to 53; 104 crime guns were seized.
- 19,800 roadway collisions, up 1%, while traffic fatalities decreased to 18, from 27 in 2023.
The full 2024 Annual Report is available at ottawapolice.ca/2024AR.
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.