June 7, 2024 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
Last month, both the Environment and Climate Change Committee and City Council received an overview of the City’s plan to implement the Council-approved Curbside Waste Diversion Policy, which comes into effect on Monday, September 30.
The new policy, which allows households receiving curbside collection to set out three garbage items every two weeks, is one of several City initiatives to reduce the amount of unnecessary waste sent to the Trail Waste Facility Landfill and to reduce the climate impact of managing waste. This limit includes residents whose waste is collected in one shared location – often called a common pad – and those living on agricultural properties.
What is considered a garbage item in this new three-item garbage limit?
An item includes the following:
- a plastic waste bag
- a bin with a maximum capacity of up to 140 litres. Households can put several waste bags in a bin as long as the weight is less than 33 pounds (15 kilos) per bin.
- Furniture or bulky item that can’t be re-used or donated
Examples of acceptable three-item combinations include:
- one 140-litre bin, a plastic waste bag and a broken chair
- three 140-litre bins
- three plastic waste bags
- two 140-litre bins and one broken vacuum
Leaf and yard waste stored in paper leaf and yard waste bags do not count towards the limit. There will continue to be no limit to how much residents can set out through green, blue and black bins.
Ottawa has had a six-item garbage limit in place since 2007. This limit has been far more generous than many municipalities, including neighbouring communities around our City. The new limit helps the City extend the life of our Trail Road Waste Facility Landfill as we explore new options for waste disposal.
It is also important to understand that the Government of Ontario mandates and regulates the City's waste management targets. The Province has set a 70 per cent reduction and recovery target for food and organic waste for municipalities by the end of this year. The Province also has set a target for phasing out all food and organic waste from landfills by 2030. To achieve these targets, 58 per cent of waste needs to be diverted from curbside solid waste to recycling programs by all Ontario municipalities.
For over a decade, the implementation of the green bin program and shift to bi-weekly garbage collection has only resulted in a 12 per cent increase in waste diversion due to the six bag limit. To encourage the full use of diversion programs, an adjustment of the maximum number of garbage items permitted at the curb is necessary.
To guide residents through the change, the City will roll out a communications and outreach plan over the next several months, including tools and tips to help people divert more waste. Once the limit is in place there will be a two-month transition period to help residents adjust, focusing on education first and gradually moving to not collecting garbage over the limit in December.
In addition, the City will offer flexible options to help residents deal with unavoidable extra garbage:
Yellow bags for excess waste
If your waste habits are anything like 85 per cent of most Ottawa residents, you likely won’t experience any impacts on regular collection days. For those who need to go above the three-item limit, yellow bags can be purchased at participating retailers, including Home Hardware stores and Building Centres later this year, for $17.60 for a package of four. There is no limit to the number of yellow bags that are set out for collection.
Agricultural properties and other special considerations
The new three-item garbage limit will still apply to agricultural properties with residential homes who receive curbside collection. Residents will have opportunities to set out unavoidable farm waste without needing a yellow bag from Tuesday, April 1 to Saturday, May 31. This exemption is only available for agricultural properties already participating in all waste diversion programs, such as the blue, black and weekly green bin programs.
Other special considerations are available for residents who need to dispose of special items, such as home healthcare waste and diapers. You can visit the Garbage and Recycling webpage for more information on how to register for this program and where you can purchase yellow bags.
Tips for waste reduction
- An unwanted item in your home might be high on your neighbour’s wish list. Many neighbourhoods have Buy Nothing groups, where members can post items to give, free of charge, to those who want them. Be sure to check Facebook or other local forums to see if there is one active in your community.
- Have an item you want to get rid of, but are unsure where it can be safely disposed? Check out the City’s Waste Explorer. It can direct you to which bin an item goes in, or if it should be taken to a retailer running a Take It Back! program. You can visit the Waste Explorer online, or via the Ottawa Collection Calendar mobile app available for both Apple and Android devices.
- The City also hosts several events throughout the year where you can dispose of specialty waste, such as electronics or hazardous waste or even get an item repaired. Upcoming Household Hazardous Waste and Electronic Waste events can be found by visiting the City’s Hazardous waste and special items webpage. The City has also sponsored several Repair Café events throughout the year. At these events, you can get an item assessed and repaired where possible by a volunteer from Ottawa Tool Library.
Your Councillor in the Community
It was a pleasure to honour community leaders Sunshine Tenasco, June Girvan and seven other recipients of this year’s University of Ottawa Alumni Awards of Excellence at a wonderful celebratory event this week.
It was great to briefly attend River Councillor Riley Brockington's annual Strawberry Social this week with many Council colleagues!
Congratulations to the Coalition of Community Houses for holding a successful Youth Symposium that centred on the experiences, skills and vision of Black and racialized youth in Ottawa this week.
It is always an honour and a pleasure to attend the annual traditional pow wow in Kitigan Zibi.
I had a wonderful time visiting students at Immaculata High School last week!
Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities
Free Dental Screenings in Ward 13 - June 12 and 21
Ottawa Public Health hosts free dental screenings at its Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs. The next dental screening at at the ACB Wellness Resource Centre, 610 Donald Street, is June 12 from 12:30 to 4:30 pm and in Room 101 at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard on June 21 from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm and from 1:30 pm to 4 pm. No appointment needed. First come, first served. All ages welcome. For more information, please visit ottawapublichealth.ca.
North River Road Pedestrian Crossing - Update
My office has been advised that work on the new signalized pedestrian crossing (PXO) on the north leg of the North River Road/Stevens Avenue intersection will continue, including addressing pavement deficiencies on the road and pathway, an inspection of the electrical works and completion of pavement markets in tandem with signal activation. Work is planned to resume in mid-June. Pedestrian crossovers are designated areas that allow pedestrians to safely cross the road, where vehicles must yield to pedestrians when crossing. Pedestrian crossovers (PXOs) are identified by specific signs and pavement markings. In some cases, but not always, they may also have pedestrian activated flashing beacons. More information on PXOs is available at this link.
NextUp is Prezdential Basketball’s brand new program to help teens reach their full potential. Sessions include 1 hour of basketball training and 1 hour of life skills with a focus on essential skills rarely taught in classrooms such as organization, financing, mental health, and cooking. The program is co-run by Bhanu Loganathan, a university-level basketball player and Nick Cholmsky, a mental health professional at McGill University. This program provides teens with the tools necessary to transition to the next stage of their lives, whether that be high school, post-secondary education, or the workforce.
Who: Teens in age groups: 13-15 and 16-18
When: Fridays 9 - 11am (4 sessions beginning July 5)
Where: Ottawa Technical Secondary School
Cost: Free!
Click here to register
Rideau-Rockcliffe Resident Survey Launches
The Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre is launching its resident survey as part of the large needs assessment they are conducting. This assessment aims to better understand resident needs and challenges, assess resource gaps and access barriers. The survey takes approximately 5-8 minutes to complete and in appreciation, participants will be entered into a draw to win 1 of 20 $50 grocery or Walmart gift cards. The survey will be available all summer and can be filled out online at the following link: Rideau Rockcliffe Resident Survey or in person at the community resource centre at 815 St. Laurent Boulevard. For any questions or assistance in completing the survey over the phone, residents can call 613-745-0073 ext. 209 or email [email protected].
NCC River House
- Swimming open daily: Lifeguards on duty daily from 7 am to 7 pm
- Food services open daily from 11 am to 9 pm
- Water taxi: Tuesday to Friday: 12 pm to 7 pm. Saturday and Sunday: 11 am to 7 pm
- Greyline Bus Tours: Hop-on, hop-off tours Monday to Thursday. Buses run every hour.
- Bike parking: Two new bike parking lots; additional bike racks added.
- Changing facilities: Universally accessible showers, lockers and family change room.
- Universal access to the water: A new chair lift has been installed for safe water access.
Beechwood Market in New Edinburgh Park - June 8
Enjoy a farmers' market closer to home, right in the heart of New Edinburgh. The Beechwood Market takes place in New Edinburgh Park, at 203 Stanley Avenue, every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm. The next market is June 8. For details, please visit ottstreetmarkets.ca.
Rockcliffe Park East Walking Tour - June 9
Heritage Ottawa is organizing a walking tour in Rockcliffe Park East where participants will learn about some of the natural elements of the area and see different views of the beautiful McKay Lake created naturally some 9,000 years ago. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required for this event. The tour takes place June 9 from 2 to 3:30 pm. Visit Heritage Ottawa's website to register and for more information.
An Evening with Adrienne Clarkson - June 12
Heritage Ottawa is partnering with the National Capital Commission and the Global Center for Pluralism for an evening with the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson who will present "From Sussex Street to Sussex Drive: A refugee's journey to Rideau Hall". The speaking engagement takes place June 12 from 7 to 8:30 pm. Registration is required. Visit Heritage Ottawa for details and to register.
Vanier Museopark - New opening hours for the summer
With the return of summery days, come learn more about the Vanier district by visiting the museum at the Museopark. We're extending our opening hours on weekends to welcome you for a longer period of time.
- Tuesday to Sunday: from 10 am to 4 pm
- Monday: closed
Closed on statutory holidays (Canada Day: Monday, July 1, 2024; Civic Holiday: Monday, August 5, 2024; Labour Day: Monday, September 2, 2024). Plan your visit at the museum.
Tree removal - New Edinburgh - early June
The City of Ottawa's Forestry Services has informed my office that six trees are scheduled to be removed from National Capital Commission green space at Stanley Avenue and Union Street within the next couple of weeks due to the condition of the trees. These trees are located on NCC property and the City has a maintenance agreement for removing hazard trees. The NCC is responsible for replanting and is currently working on the replacement plan.
Free Back-to-School Supplies for Ward 13 schoolchildren in need
The Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre and the Caring and Sharing Exchange are providing free school supplies for children in need from kindergarten to Grade 9 living in Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward 13 with a postal code of K1K and in some cases K1M or K1G. For more information, please visit crcrr.org, call 613-745-0073 ext. 123 or register at this link: https://forms.office.com/r/FW33ArANJD Required documentation includes proof of identity for parents and children, proof of address and proof of family income. First come, first served.
Morin Street resurfacing - beginning June 13
As part of the City of Ottawa’s annual infrastructure maintenance cycle, road resurfacing will occur along Morin Street to improve this roadway and the overall citywide transportation network. For details about this project, please visit ottawa.ca.
Why: The City of Ottawa will be resurfacing roads as preventative maintenance aimed at extending the City's roadway network lifecycle.
When: This work is scheduled to start in early June 2024 and completion is anticipated by fall 2024. Work will take place between the hours of 7 am and 10 pm as required. Morin Street will remain open to traffic with lane closures expected.
Where: Work will occur along Morin Street from Côté Street to St. Laurent Boulevard.
Who: The City of Ottawa has retained the contractor, R.W. Tomlinson Limited, to resurface Morin Street.
Youth Photography Opening Night - June 13
Nominations now accepted for VOscars Volunteer Awards - until June 14
Is there an individual or organization in your community who deserves a big pat on the back for making Ottawa a happier, healthier, more caring city? Recognize their volunteer contributions by nominating them for one of Volunteer Ottawa’s seven VOscars Volunteer Awards. Online submission forms are now available on the Volunteer Ottawa website and will be open until June 14. For details, please visit https://volunteerottawa.ca/events/voscars-awards.
Hydro Pole Replacement - Foxview Place - starting June 17
Road Closure Notice - Alesther Street - June 18-21
Crews will be replacing backyard hydro poles along Alesther Street between Donald Street and Dunbrack Street using a large mobile crane from June 18 to 21, from 7 am to 7 pm, weather permitting. Local traffic will have access at all times. Flagging personnel will be on site to manage traffic flow. It would be appreciated if vehicles are not parked on the street during this period.
Violin Recital - June 21
Join the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre for its Youth Violin Recital on June 21 from 5-6 pm at The Rideau Community Hub in the drama room at 815 St. Laurent Boulevard.
Wateridge Village Neighbourhood Garage Sale - June 22
Ottawa Valley Weavers’ and Spinners’ Guild 75th Anniversary celebration - June 22
The Ottawa Valley Weavers’ and Spinners’ Guild (OVWSG) is celebrating its 75th Anniversary! We might not look a day over 30 — but here we are, marking 75 years of creativity, community and learning. Everyone is welcome to attend June 22 from 12 to 4 pm at Heartwood house at 404 McArthur Avenue. There will be activities for all ages. For details, please visit www.ovwsg.com or email [email protected].
Alvin Heights Park-area Rideau-Rockcliffe Roundtable - June 24
Residents living in the vicinity of Alvin Heights Park are invited to drop by my Rideau-Rockcliffe Roundtable to share improvement ideas for the park, local traffic concerns and other neighbourhood and City-related issues. My team and I will be at the park on June 24, from 2 to 4 pm.
Support for Seniors Big Ideas Forum - June 25
The Rotary Club of Ottawa, in partnership with the Crichton Community Council, host a "Support for Seniors" Big Ideas Forum on June 25 at 7 pm at the New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse, 203 Stanley Avenue. Seniors and their children and caregivers often face difficult choices when life's circumstances mean changes are needed. Panelists include Senior Living Advisor, Sherri Daly, CARP-Ottawa VP Sheryl Bennett-Wilson and myself, Councillor Rawlson King. Admission is free. Doors open at 6:30 pm. For more information, please visit www.newedinburgh.ca/event/support-for-seniors-big-ideas-forum.
Community Coffee Day - June 28
The Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre, in partnership with incubator13, hosts a Community Coffee Day the last Friday of each month from January to June at The Rideau Community Hub, located at 815 St. Laurent Boulevard in Room 124. Enjoy coffee, tea, snacks and more. The next coffee day is June 28, from 2 to 3 pm. For details, please visit www.crcrr.org.
My office has been advised that Hydro Ottawa will be conducting work in the City's right-of-way along Donald Street between Brant Street and Telford Avenue from May 15 to June 30. The project involves hydro pole work and open trenching.
City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities
Construction Season in Ottawa has officially begun!
The City is responsible for approximately $73 billion in infrastructure, and with a land mass 4.4 times the size of the City of Toronto, we have to consider our unique urban, suburban and rural needs. This year alone, Ottawa City Council has approved over $600 million in infrastructure investments. Here’s a look at how some of the funds are being spent:
There are hundreds of new and active infrastructure projects across the city, at various stages of implementation, all working towards the same goal. Click here for more details about some of the major projects underway.
Your city, your ideas!
City staff want to hear from you! More can be done to improve our infrastructure to offer effective mobility services in the city. Do you have ideas on how the City can serve you better and more efficiently when it comes to the services that will make our city more connected? It’s your city and your ideas. Share them at engage.ottawa.ca/ConnectedCity.
Senior’s Month at the Ottawa Public Library
Ottawa Public Library (OPL), in collaboration with the Council on Aging, is pleased to present a series of engaging and informative programs, in French and in English, tailored to seniors that will kick off in June, Senior’s Month, and continue through July and August. Here’s what’s coming:
Aging in Place Services and Supports is happening in June, with Exploring Online Banking and Shopping taking place in August:
- August 7 (English: 10 am-12 pm) at the Rosemount branch
- June 12 & August 14 (French: 1-3 pm) at the Vanier branch
- June 19 & August 21 (English: 6-8 pm) at the Elmvale Acres branch
Aging in Place Services and Supports
Participants will embark on a journey to understand the practical, emotional, and financial aspects of continuing to live independently with the right services and supports. This session will provide an overview of common needs, available options, and financial considerations, empowering seniors to make informed decisions about their living arrangements.
Exploring Online Banking and Shopping
In this workshop, participants will explore their current banking and shopping habits and learn the ins and outs of safely conducting financial transactions and shopping online. They will also discover the benefits of online banking and shopping as viable alternatives to traditional methods, all while ensuring security and convenience.
OPL will also be virtually offering Nurturing Mental Wellness and Resiliency during the month of July.
Nurturing Mental Wellness and Resiliency
This session aims to enhance participants’ understanding of mental wellness and resiliency as they age. Practical tools and valuable insights will be shared to help create actionable plans to support mental wellness. Additionally, this program will address the unique challenges related to mental wellness in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. People interested can visit OPL’s website, for further details on how to register and be part of these valuable sessions designed to empower and support seniors.
June is National Indigenous History Month
June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to honour and learn about the unique cultures, experiences and achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. And June 21, in alignment with the summer solstice, is National Indigenous Peoples Day(link is external) with events occurring across Canada. From a local perspective, it is important to recognize and learn about the Anishinabe Algonquin Host Nation whose traditional and unceded territory the City of Ottawa is built upon. The Anishinabe Algonquin Host Nation has shaped this region since time immemorial and continues to make significant contributions to the betterment of this land. The Ottawa Aboriginal Day parade is June 9 from noon to 3 pm in downtown Ottawa. And the Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival Competition Pow Wow and Festival Weekend takes place June 21 to 23. For a wide range of events happening through the month of June, please visit ottawa.ca.
Ottawa Public Library (OPL) invites Ottawans of all ages to take advantage of the Library’s many resources, reading recommendations, programs, and other offerings during National Indigenous History Month in June. For the full program of virtual and in-person events, please visit biblioottawalibrary.ca.
Let's Bike Month
June is EnviroCentre’s Let’s Bike Month! With the support of EnviroCentre's core partner, the City of Ottawa, along with other great community organizations and businesses, they are working toward getting more people to ride their bikes! Whether it’s for commuting, running errands, training or just for fun, you can track your rides and see the impact a bike ride can have on our planet. Sign up as an individual or start a team to encourage your community to join in! Log your bike rides and see the impact YOU make by choosing to bike! Join one of their free workshops or events! They will be celebrating all kilometres pedalled and emissions averted at their new community celebration event – Bikes and Bites, June 26, 5 to 8 pm, at the Horticulture Building at Lansdowne Park.
City to celebrate Pollinator Appreciation Day - June 8
On Saturday, June 8, from 10 am to 3 pm, everyone who appreciates pollinators is invited to the Fletcher Wildlife Garden, 865 Prince of Wales Drive, to talk to other people who care, who can give you advice, answer your questions and point you in the right direction for the information you need to not only appreciate pollinators but also help them thrive. Visit the City booth to get tips on native species and rain gardens, and how together we can build a more sustainable Ottawa.
Two events: Cargo Bike Show and Tell & Community Screening of Movie at the Mayfair - June 9
On Sunday, June 9 at 11:30 am, For Our Kids Ottawa-Gatineau is hosting a showing of the award-winning film MOTHERLOAD at the Mayfair Theatre. This film captures a new mother’s quest to understand the increasing isolation and disconnection of modern life, its planetary impact, and how cargo bikes could be an antidote. The event is a fundraiser for the Ottawa Community Housing Foundation Hop On Bikes program. Tickets are by donation – suggested $10 per person, $5 for students / youth. Special thanks to John Gomes of Royal Lepage Realty, Vélofix, Physio Bike Fitter, Let’s Go Cargo, School Streets Ottawa and Bike Ottawa!
Prior to the film, from 10:30 to 11:30 am, drop by the Hopewell Avenue Public School bike racks to check out a wide variety of cargo bikes and chat with their owners about what works for them to make family transportation by bike easy and fun. Learn more: www.forourkids.ca/MOTHERLOAD Visit Eventbrite for tickets.
Global Call for Submissions for the 2025 Global Pluralism Award - Until June 9
Presented every two years, the Global Centre for Pluralism’s flagship Award celebrates the inspiring and brave work that is helping to build more inclusive societies where diversity is valued and protected. Individuals, private sector actors, academics, civil society and government bodies from around the world are all eligible for the Award. Three Award winners will be selected by an independent, international jury of experts. Each recipient will receive a prize of $50,000 CAD to further their work in support of pluralism. The Award will be presented in the Fall of 2025. Candidate submissions and third-party nominations for the Global Pluralism Award are now open and will be accepted until June 9 via: award.pluralism.ca
Cultural Funding Framework Review - Community Engagement - June 11 and 14
Launch of Community Engagement Survey on Lansdowne 2.0 - Open until June 13
The City has launched a Community Engagement Survey to gather feedback on community consultations related to Lansdowne 2.0. This initiative aims to identify any issues and seek suggestions for improving community consultations on major City projects moving forward. The survey is now live on Engage Ottawa and can be accessed here: engage.ottawa.ca/embeds/projects/25667/survey-tools/47053 It will remain open until June 13. Following the closure of the survey, staff will compile the results and report back to Council.
21 Under 21 Youth Awards - Nomination process open until June 14
Youth Ottawa and RBC are now accepting applications for the 21 under 21 Youth Awards. If you are, or know a youth between the ages of 14-21 who has given back to the community, inspired change in others, or exhibited inspirational qualities, please submit an application. Recipients will receive a $1,000 bursary and an invitation to the awards gala in October. Let's celebrate the unique journeys and achievements of our young leaders together! Your nomination could make a world of difference. For more information about the application or nominations period visit us at youthottawa.ca/nominate. Nominations are due by June 14.
Canadian Multicultural Day celebration - June 15
Welcome to Canadian Multiculturalism Day! Join us at 144 Wellington St for a day of celebrating the diverse cultures that make up our beautiful country. Immerse yourself in a variety of cultural performances, delicious food, and interactive activities. This event is a fantastic opportunity to learn about and appreciate the many different traditions that contribute to Canada's rich tapestry. Whether you're looking to try new foods, enjoy vibrant music and dance performances, or simply soak in the festive atmosphere, there's something here for everyone. Come together with friends and family to embrace the spirit of unity and diversity that defines our nation. This year, the Canadian Multicultural Day celebration will take place on June 15 from 5 to 11 pm at Parliament Hill 144 Wellington Street. Admission is free. For details and tickets, please visit Eventbrite.
Lift Off - A Youth Entrepreneurship Day - June 15
Join Invest Ottawa on June 15 from 9:30 am to 4 pm at Bayview Yards, 7 Bayview Station Road, for a day of inspiring talks, expert-lead learning sessions, and networking to help young entrepreneurs lift off. This is a free event for young entrepreneurs aged 15 to 22 years old. Admission is free. To reserve your spot or for more information, please visit Eventbrite.ca.
NCC Board of Directors Meeting - June 20
Ottawa's Draft Comprehensive Zoning By-law - Community Meeting - June 20
The City of Ottawa is developing a new comprehensive Zoning By-law for approval by Council in 2025. The Zoning By-law is a set of regulations that sets rules on what can be built as of right, without having to seek specific permission. This meeting aims to provide attendees with an overview of the key concepts of the proposed bylaw and to outline what can be expected in future engagements. The Question and Answer period will allow participants to seek clarification and raise concerns directly. Visit the City's primer for details. My office intends to hold a Ward consultation concerning the comprehensive Zoning By-law after the second draft of the document is released. Details to come.
June 20 Virtual Meeting:
- Time: 6:30 to 8 pm
- Format: Citywide
- Focus: Overview of key concepts, Q&A session
- Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0tdO-pqTgoGtyAqDkvXgopTRrhqw9MfiyF
Adaawewigamig Summer Solstice Indigenous Night Market - June 20
The ByWard Market District Authority is partnering with local social enterprise, Assembly of Seven Generations (A7G), and their flagship boutique Adaawewigamig, located in the historic ByWard Market building, for the Summer Solstice edition of the ByWard Night Market on June 20 from 5 to 9 pm. This event will feature Indigenous makers, artisans, and a fashion show.
Conversation on Education and Unity: A Multicultural Dialogue - June 22
The World Multicultural Festival and the Intercultural Dialogue Institute Ottawa present a panel discussion titled "Fostering Unity Through Education: Building a Harmonious Multicultural Society" on June 22 from 3 to 6 pm at 335 Michael Cowpland Drive. The panel discussion aims to explore strategies for cultivating educational systems that embrace and celebrate cultural diversity, while fostering empathy, understanding, and cooperation among diverse communities. For details, please visit www.facebook.com/worldmulticulturalfestival and to register to attend, please click here.
Provide input on the City of Ottawa's Municipal Accessibility Plan - Consultation opportunities June 24 to July 31
The City of Ottawa's Municipal Accessibility Plan (COMAP) is a requirement under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA). It is a five-year plan to identify, remove and prevent accessibility barriers across the organization by committing to specific actions and outcomes aimed at making sure people with disabilities can participate in the City's programs, services, facilities, public spaces, information and communication, and employment. The current City of Ottawa Municipal Accessibility Plan (COMAP) will expire soon. A project page is available in English and French. This includes all project information and the registration to attend an in-person consultation. An accessible online survey is available Engage Ottawa for input until August 5.
- June 24, from 1 to 2:30 pm at City Hall in the Colonel By Room
- July 3 from 6 to 7:30 pm at Peter D. Clark Place, 255 Centrum Blvd. in Room 340
- July 9 from 1 to 2:30 pm - virtual on Zoom
- July 17 from 10 to 11:30 am - virtual on Zoom. **A link will be shared with those who register.
- July 25 from 6 to 7:30 pm at Ben Franklin Place, 101 Centrepointe Drive
- July 31 from 6 to 7:30 pm - virtual in Zoom. **A link will be shared with those who register.
Emerging Community Need Funding Opportunity - Applications now being accepted
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- Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis throughout the year.
- Funding available: $300,000
- As part of the City’s commitment to the Anti-Racism Strategy, a minimum of $100,000 of the available funding will be allocated to Black-led initiatives. These initiatives will provide programs and services for Black youth.
- Applicants can apply for a maximum of $30,000 per application.
- This funding is available until the budget is finished.
Tax Deferral Programs
Full property tax deferral program
- Available for all residents who meet the eligibility criteria
- Several methods are available to apply for full property tax deferral program
- Available for all residents who meet the eligibility criteria
- Several methods are available to apply for partial property tax deferral program
- Available for all resident who meet the eligibility criteria
- Several methods are available to apply for water bill deferral program
Emergency Services News
Make the Right Call https://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.
Ottawa Police Service highlights Seniors’ Safety
As June is designated Seniors’ Month, the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is dedicated to addressing critical safety issues affecting seniors. Through collaboration with our Missing Persons Section, Elder Abuse Section, and Organized Fraud Section, OPS is actively engaging with key concerns impacting seniors. Throughout June, OPS online initiatives will educate seniors and caregivers on preventing abuse and fraud, recognizing, and avoiding scams, and supporting seniors experiencing loneliness or those at risk of going missing. By raising awareness and providing resources, OPS aims to foster a safer environment for our senior community. For more information on OPS initiatives during Seniors’ Month, please visit the OPS website.
Knock, knock! Wake Up and check your alarms with Ottawa Fire Services - June 3 to 10
As part of the spring Wake Up! program, firefighters from Ottawa Fire Services will visit homes across the city next week to ensure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are present and working. Ontario’s Fire Code requires that homes have a working smoke alarm on each floor and outside each sleeping area. Carbon monoxide alarms are also required outside sleeping areas if the home has an attached garage, a wood stove or a fuel-fired appliance. From Monday, June 3 to Monday, June 10, uniformed firefighters will:
- Visit select residential areas between 3 and 8 pm on weekdays and 2 and 4 pm on weekends.
- Offer to inspect and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms.
- Install smoke alarms and provide new batteries.
- Share information on fire safety and home escape planning.
- Leave a door hanger with fire safety information if no one is home.
This is a courtesy call only and all services are provided to residents for free. Residents are not obligated to provide firefighters access to their home. To learn what is involved in a firefighter home visit, watch the Wake Up! video. Visit ottawa.ca/fire for more information on smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
Survey on the use of in-car cameras - Deadline extended to June 14
The Ottawa Police Service is launching a new public survey to seek feedback on the introduction of in-car camera pilot project. The OPS is conducting in-person consultations, but residents are encouraged to complete this short survey to offer their feedback at ottawapolice.ca/video. The survey will close on June 14, 2024. Once we have collected feedback, OPS will launch an initial pilot project to ensure the devices function as expected and identify any issues prior to expanding it Service-wide. This is part of the modernization of our Service with the introduction of our new Digital Evidence Information Management System (DEIMS). DEIMS is part of a program launched by the Solicitor General of Ontario and the Ministry of the Attorney General’s office to help create common resources for all police services across the province. Vehicles equipped with in-car cameras will also use wireless mics to capture audio when an officer exits the vehicle. Wireless mics are paired to the in-car camera and have a range of 1,000 feet (300 m). When recording, a red flashing light will be visible, as well, every two minutes the wireless mic will beep. Officers will attach the wireless mics to their vest (chest) utilizing a RapidLock mount. OPS currently operates five vehicles with a three-external mounted camera ALPR system, that solely uses ALPR technology. More information about in-car cameras and ALPRs can be found at ottawapolice.ca/video. We want to thank residents for helping to provide feedback on the launch of our pilot project. If you have questions, you can email [email protected].
New Use of Force Review Panel - Call for Applications - Until June 10
The Ottawa Police Service Community Equity Council (CEC) is looking for community members to join the new Use of Force Review Panel. Applications are due by Monday, June 10, 2024. The Use of Force Review Panel will review Use of Force case files and make specific recommendations on service delivery improvements to address systemic issues (for the police service and possibly other service providers). The Panel will also have a role, with the Community Equity Council, in the annual Use of Force data analysis, recommendations, reporting, and action planning. The Panel has its own Terms of Reference and members of the panel will be required to sign a confidentiality agreement and do a background check after being interviewed. People selected for the panel will be compensated for their work with the Panel. Learn more at ottawapolice.ca.
Ottawa Police Diversity Celebration - June 27 - Groups welcome to book a table!
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is thrilled to announce its annual Diversity Celebration on June 27, 2024, from 4 to 6 pm at 474 Elgin Street (Front entrance). This event aligns with Canadian Multiculturalism Day and Welcoming Ottawa Week, highlighting the rich tapestry of diversity in our city. Join OPS in honoring the multitude of cultures that contribute to our vibrant community, featuring music, cuisine, and entertainment generously provided by our diverse communities. We warmly invite all our community partners and media to participate in this celebration. Come and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, paying homage to Ottawa's multicultural community. If you would like to showcase your culture with a display table, click this link to secure your spot. Space is limited.
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 and interested in sharing ideas and working together with police to help build a safer Ottawa? Apply by September 1! Visit ottawapolice.ca/YAC to apply.