March 14, 2025 Newsletter

March 14, 2025 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.

A Message from Councillor King

Dear Residents:

O-Train Lines 2 and 4 will open on Sundays starting Sunday, March 16. This expansion of service follows the launch of Saturday service on January 25. O-Train Lines 2 and 4 run from 6 am to midnight Monday to Friday, 6:30 am to midnight on Saturdays, and 7:30 am to 11:30 pm on Sundays. B2 parallel bus service will continue to run alongside Lines 2 and 4 until March 29. Starting March 16, Route 99 will be adjusted to make a new connection to Limebank Station. Routes 97 and 99 will continue to run alongside the new lines until New Ways to Bus comes into effect on April 27, 2025.

The availability of seven-day service on O-Train Lines 2 and 4 marks the completion of the phased opening plan, which was developed based on the public inquiry report recommendations, lessons learned, and third-party recommendations. OC Transpo will continue to monitor the system to ensure it is delivering a positive customer experience.

***

Due to the election of Councillor George Darouze to Queen’s Park in the recent provincial election, Council recently prepared to declare the Office of City Councillor for Ward 20 (Osgoode) to be vacant in accordance with the Municipal Act. Council directed the Office of the City Clerk to report back to Council at the March 26 Council meeting with information on a by-election option for Ward 20.

***

Despite multiple snowstorms this winter, City of Ottawa officials report that no major river flooding within the City is currently expected. In a March 13 memo to City Council, Public Works General Manager Alain Gonthier noted that snowpack and snow water content across the Ottawa River catchment area remain within normal ranges.

Gonthier cautioned it's still premature to make definitive predictions about spring water levels. The region typically experiences two spring melts (freshets) - the Rideau River usually peaks in March or April before the Ottawa River. Past local freshets have caused mild to moderate impacts, primarily affecting roads, riverside pathways, parks, and drainage systems.

City teams have been monitoring conditions and planning since February, reviewing flood preparedness plans in anticipation of the annual freshet. Officials will continue ice-breaking operations along the Rideau River within Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward through late March to ensure unrestricted water flow and reduce flooding risks in vulnerable areas. Notwithstanding current flooding predictions, residents as always are encouraged to exercise caution. Please avoid ice-breaking operations and stay off melting watercourses.

Melting snow combined with spring rainfall and the frozen ground being less able to absorb water can lead to higher and faster-flowing water and unstable ice conditions. Ice is rapidly melting and getting thinner. This presents a danger to both people and pets who could fall through the ice. For your safety, please do not attempt to walk on ice-covered water bodies, and avoid all recreational activities in or around ice-covered watercourses and water bodies. Please stay safe as we transition from winter to spring conditions.

Rawlson King,
City Councillor

Your Councillor in the Community

I was pleased to attend Gloucester-Southgate Councillor Jessica Bradley's International Women's Day event last week, featuring a keynote address from Interval House, a not-for-profit residence that provides safe shelter for women, children and pets fleeing violence. Councillor Bradley's annual event continues an important tradition first started in Ward 10 by the late Councillor Diane Deans.

Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities

Winter operations update for March 14

Temperatures are expected to reach double digits over the weekend with mainly sunny conditions until Sunday, when showers are then expected to move into the region with up to 15 millimetres possible through the day and night. Across the City and as the system moves into the region, supervisors will monitor areas that are prone to localized flooding. Over the past couple of weeks, crews have been busy opening catch basins and ditches, particularly in areas that are known for water ponding and flooding, to ensure they are able to take in water to prepare for the melting snow and rain events.

The Public Works team would like to thank residents for their assistance over the last few weeks supporting operations by clearing their local catch basins across the city. They couldn’t have done it without you. Keep up the good work! Find your nearest catch basin using the City's catch basin locator map. Need to report a blocked catch basin? Let us know! Higher daytime temperatures followed by freezing temperatures at night create icy and slippery conditions on the transportation network. Given the number of freeze/thaw cycles this week, crews have also been spot-treating roads, sidewalks and the winter cycling with salt as required. Residents are reminded to take care when walking, driving or cycling.

Snow removal operations began winding down this week. Crews will continue to remove the large piles of snow in cul-de-sacs and dead ends as needed in the coming days. To date, crews have removed a whopping 2,198,950 cubic metres of snow. That’s like filling Bayshore Shopping Centre twice, with overflow into the parking garage!

Pothole repairs have begun

It’s that time of the year for freeze/thaw cycles, and what comes with this type of weather pattern? Potholes, of course! Since January, pothole crews have been working on temporary repairs and have filled over 14,700 potholes. Crews will continue their work on potholes repairs in the coming weeks. To report a pothole, residents can create a service request online or call 3-1-1.

Spring Freshet

The term freshet is commonly used to describe a significant increase of water discharged into rivers during spring months due to snowmelt. Spring freshets may be influenced by precipitation events during and after snow melting. This can lead to seasonal flooding in low-lying areas along rivers. The Ottawa region typically experiences two freshets. The Rideau River and local waterway Spring freshet routinely peaks in March / April in advance of the Ottawa River. The impact of the local freshet has been mild to moderate in past years affecting a limited number of roads, river-adjacent pathways and parks, and results in fast-moving water in our overland drainage systems. The Ottawa River watershed, at approximately 146,000 km2, is an extremely large river system that also experiences flooding to some degree every spring. The Ottawa River watershed conveys water from many rivers including the Rideau River.

2025 Spring Freshet Task Force, Planning and Flood Preparedness

The City of Ottawa has established a Spring Freshet Task Force each year since the 2017 freshet. The goal of the taskforce is to prepare for, monitor, and respond to the needs of residents in flood-vulnerable areas across the city. Much of the planning and operational response focuses on communities and City assets known to be impacted by seasonal flooding along the various rivers within the city and especially along the Rideau River and Ottawa River. The Public Works Spring Freshet Task Force has been established and is working with internal and external partners to monitor water levels, snowpack, and forecast conditions. Members of Public Works and Infrastructure and Water Services have been working on flood planning and monitoring of snow and river conditions since early February. The Infrastructure and Water Services teams have reviewed their flood preparedness plans and are prepared for the annual freshet.

In preparing for the spring freshet, the work of the 2025 PW Freshet Task Force will include:

Completion of the Rideau River Flood Control program;
- The Rideau River Flood Control operations have begun in partnership with the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority. Ice-breaking and clearing operations along the Rideau River will continue into late March. This work will allow water to flow unrestricted and alleviate possible spring flooding in flood-prone areas.

Ottawa residents are encouraged to follow the City’s social media channels for updates, and to visit the Spring Flooding 2025 page for freshet-related information. Residents can also sign up to receive updated flood notices from our local conservation authority partners:

Information on Ottawa River conditions can be found at Current Conditions - Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board.

Presland Road Redevelopment Proposal

Plans are progressing to redevelop 240 Presland Road in Overbrook, where an apartment building was lost to a fire in early 2023. The Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation (CCOC), which owns the property, is sharing the project details with Overbrook residents, the Overbrook Community Association and the general public prior to submitting an application to the City of Ottawa this month. The CCOC, which is a non-profit housing organization whose mission is to create, maintain and promote housing for low- and moderate-income people, is proposing a new mixed-income housing development featuring a six-storey building. The new building will contain approximately 67 universally accessible housing units ranging from studios to three bedrooms for a range of attainable rents to accommodate the needs of families, seniors, youth and newcomers. The building will be designed to maximize energy efficiency, sustainability and resiliency. Ample car and bicycle parking will be provided onsite. The design team is refining the drawings and plans to submit planning applications to the City of Ottawa in March 2025, with the goal of starting construction in late 2025. For the complete project briefing, please visit this link.

Ottawa Family Cinema presents The Wizard of Oz in 3D - March 15

Join the Ottawa Family Cinema at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard, on March 15 at 2 pm for a special 3D screening of the beloved classic, The Wizard of Oz! Experience Dorothy’s unforgettable journey to the Land of Oz like never before – in stunning 3D! Grab your ruby slippers and bring the whole family for an adventure down the yellow brick road! Tickets are available at familycinema.ca or at the door.

Free Parenting in Ottawa Drop-ins - March 16, 18, 23, 25 and 30

Ottawa Public Health hosts free Parenting in Ottawa drop-ins featuring in-person support with a public health nurse for infant feeding, growth and development, perinatal mental health and more. No appointment needed. Locations in and near Ward 13 include the St. Laurent Complex, 525 Cote Street, on March 16, 23 and 30 from 10 am to 12:30 pm, and at the Vanier Community Services Centre at 270 Marier Avenue on March 18 and 25 from 1:30 to 3:30 pm.

Road Closure - Prince Albert - March 17

The City has received an application for the closure of Prince Albert Street from Lola Street to Naughton Street from March 17 to March 21. The contractor, Ottawa Crane Rental Ltd. will be installing a large mobile crane in the roadway to replace backyard hydro poles for Hydro Ottawa. Signage will be in place. All impacted residents will receive written notice.

Pole Replacement and Power Outage - Prince Albert Street and Queen Mary Street - March 18

On March 18, 2025, Hydro Ottawa will be replacing electrical poles that will impact residents on Prince Albert Street and Queen Mary Street. Residents may notice increased construction presence throughout the day. Traffic control and lane reductions will be implemented to ensure that roads and sidewalks remain safe for residents and staff. Construction activities will occur on the City of Ottawa Road Right-of-Way - and Hydro Ottawa easement in backyards. A planned power outage will be required to proceed with this work. All impacted customers are contacted by phone, text or email - depending on the communication preferences indicated on their account - and informed by a written notice delivered to their door, if applicable. In the case of circumstances beyond their control, the outage may be rescheduled.

Impacted streets (in Ward 13): Prince Albert Street and Queen Mary Street
Date: March 18, 2025
In case of postponement: March 19, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Contractors on site: Beacon Lite Ltd, Bradley Kelly Construction, K-Line Group of Companies and Ottawa Crane
Total customers impacted: 38 (combined with a similar project in Capital Ward)

Finding Molly Johnson – The Untold Story of Irish Famine Orphans in Canada - March 19

Join the Beechwood Cemetery Foundation for an enlightening evening at Beechwood Cemetery as historian Mark McGowan presents his groundbreaking work, Finding Molly Johnson.

Date: March 19, 2025 Time: 6:30 pm

Location: Beechwood Cemetery, Ottawa

The Irish Great Famine triggered one of the nineteenth century's worst refugee crises, with over 1.5 million people leaving Ireland. Among them were nearly 1,700 orphaned children, arriving destitute in Canada and thrust into an unfamiliar land. While national narratives often romanticize their stories as ones of benevolent adoption and seamless adaptation, Mark McGowan uncovers a more complex and challenging truth. In Finding Molly Johnson, McGowan explores how these children were taken in by the Catholic and Protestant churches in the absence of government support. Though cared for and placed in homes across cities like Saint John, Quebec, Bytown, and Toronto, many orphans were treated as sources of cheap labour rather than members of their new families. Discover the resilience of these children as they navigated hardship, fled oppressive placements, and forged new paths in the Canadian frontier. Mark McGowan’s work revisits this poignant chapter of Irish emigrant history and challenges the myths surrounding Canada’s role in the famine orphans’ lives.

Free Community Dental Screenings - March 20

Ottawa Public Health hosts free community dental screenings. All ages welcome. No appointment needed. Available on a first-come, first-served basis. In Ward 13:

Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard: March 20 from 10 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 4 pm

St. Bartholomew concert - March 23

On March 23 at 4 pm enjoy 'En Chanter,' an afternoon of music by French composers Berlioz/Boisdeffre, Debussy, Fauré, Massenet, Poulenc, Saint-Saëns et d’autres. Featuring: Frédéric Lacroix on piano, Joan Harrison on the cello, mezzo Pauline van der Roest and Tianping Chen on violin. The event takes place at the Church of St. Bartholomew,125 MacKay Street. Tickets will be available at the door. Freewill donations are welcome however $20 is recommended to help cover the costs of this event.

40th Vanier Sugar Festival - March 24 to 30

The Vanier Sugar Festival is celebrating its 40th anniversary from March 24 to 30, 2025, at the Vanier Museopark’s urban sugar shack. This free, family-friendly event offers a week of activities highlighting traditional maple syrup production and the rich heritage of the community.

Event Highlights:

18th Annual Soup(e) Splash: Kick off the festival on Monday, March 24, with a culinary competition where Ottawa’s top restaurants create the best maple syrup-based soups. Tickets are $60 per person.
School Days: On March 26 and 27, regional schools are invited for interactive tours and musical performances, teaching children about maple season traditions.
Country Dinner & Show: Join us on Friday, March 28, for a country-themed dinner featuring live music by Martin Duford and Sugar Crush. Tickets are $35 per person.
Family & Community Days: The weekend of March 29 and 30 offers traditional sugar shack meals, maple taffy, live music, a petting farm, and more.

For detailed schedules and ticket information, visit the Vanier Sugar Festival website.

Rockcliffe Park Speakers Series - March 26

Thomas d’Aquino, Founding CEO of the Business Council of Canada, and General Wayne Eyre, Former Chief of the Defence Staff, will speak about Canada--U.S.: Dangers, Myth, Reality. These leaders will offer insights on the very real challenges facing Canada in its relations with the Trump presidency, related to business, trade, prosperity, defence and security. The event takes place March 26 at 8 pm at the Rockcliffe Park Community Hall, 380 Springfield Rd. Get there early to find a seat before the event starts at 8 pm. For details, please visit rockcliffepark.ca.

Performance of "A Circle of Time" Play at Rideau Community Hub - March 26 and 27

"A Circle of Time” is Burning Passions Theatre’s second “Seniors Sharing Stories” theatrical presentation. It’s rare when the lives of seniors are featured in the news or entertainment. For two years, this project has brought together community elders to create new works expressing their hopes, dreams, and challenges as they enter the fabled “third chapter” of their lives. The new play, written and directed by Laurel Smith, explores the lives of those entering retirement as part of the sandwich generation, women juggling the needs of adult children and elderly parents while trying to chart a course for their own lives in the post 9-to-5 world. Filled with humour and heart-touching moments, A Circle of Time is an hour-long play followed by an audience talkback.

Dates: March 26 and 27 (2 pm and 7 pm)

Location: Rideau Community Hub, 815 St Laurent Blvd. (2nd floor Drama Room),

Pay what you wish tickets are now on sale at 2831283.na.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/18381

Community Coffee Day - March 28

Join Incubator13 and the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource for their monthly community coffee day on March 28 from 2 to 3 pm in Room 124 at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard. Enjoy coffee, tea, snacks and conversation! Everyone welcome.

Rideau-Rockcliffe Roundtable - March 28

Join me, Councillor Rawlson King, for my ongoing engagement series for Ward 13 residents. This month's session will coincide with the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre's Community Coffee Day on March 28 from 2 to 3 pm. My team and I will be there to speak with residents about municipal or neighbourhood issues and answer questions. The drop-in session will be held in Room 124 at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard.

Register for Spring Programs at the St. Laurent Complex - March

The St. Laurent Complex hosts recreational programs for children and adults. Learn more and register at ottawa.ca.

Explore the world of Pokemon - Ages 5-8 - In English on Mondays from 6 to 6:45 pm and in French on Mondays from 5:15 to 6 pm
Painting and drawing - In English on Mondays from 4:30 to 5:30 pm and in French on Thursdays from 4:45 to 5:45 pm
Play School programming - Ages 3-5 - Saturdays from 9 to 11 am. March 29 to May 31

Vanier 5K Charity Run and Walk - March 30

Rideau-Vanier Councillor Stéphanie Plante is hosting her 3rd annual 5K Run and Walk in Vanier on Sunday, March 30! The event is a fundraiser for the only urban sugar shack and registrants get a traditional breakfast and our famous cookie medal. Walkers, runners and strollers are all welcome! For details and to register, please visit vanier5k2025.eventbrite.com or www.facebook.com/share/12FvAsQUXNa.

Inspired By Learning Educational Bursary - Applications welcome March 31 to June 2

Ottawa Community Housing is excited to announce the launch of the 2025 Inspired by Learning bursary program designed to support 30 post-secondary students living in Ottawa Community Housing (OCH) households. This initiative aims to remove any financial barriers and push students to pursue their education with more confidence. The bursary applications will officially launch on March 31. The deadline to apply is June 2. For details, please visit ochfoundation.ca.

St. Laurent Library branch programming - March

English Book Club featuring Run Towards the Danger by Sarah Polley on March 27 from 10 am to 12 pm

Drop-in adult programs

English Conversation Group - Thursdays 6:30 - 8 pm
Groupe de conversation en français - Les mardis 18 h 30 - 20 h
Knitting & Crochet Club - Tuesdays from 1 to 3 pm
Free movie night
- Le 17 mars à 18 h: Nos belles-soeurs (en français)

Drop-in children's programs

Family Storytime in English - Mondays at 10:30 am
Babytime - Tuesday, March 25 at 10:30 am
Contes en familleen français - Wednesday, March 26 at 10:30 am
Homework club for ages 6 to 12 - Wednesdays at 5 pm

Drop-in programs

Game On! Play card games or board games at the library (ex: Connect 4, Checkers, Chess). Ages 6-12. - March 15 at 10 am.
LEGO Party - March 15 at 2 pm

More information online here.

Dementia Care Workshop Series - Until April 8

A Positive Approach to Dementia Care Workshop

The Edinburgh Retirement Residence hosts a dementia care workshop every Tuesday until April 8 at 1:30 pm focusing on a discussion of A Positive Approach to Dementia Care. This workshop is for caregivers and family members who are looking to learn strategies and tools to help support their loved one who is living with dementia. It is a six-week workshop with hands-on learning from PAC-certified dementia coach, Kerry Durant R.P.N. Participants will also get to connect with others who are going through a similar journey and share their experiences. The sessions take place at 10 Vaughan St. For details and tickets, please visit Eventbrite.

Free Tax Clinic - April 12 and 26

Ottawa-Vanier MP Mona Fortier is hosting free tax clinics to help Ottawa-Vanier residents prepare their tax returns. The tax clinics will take place on the following Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., at 233 Montreal Road. For more information and to make an appointment, please contact the constituency office at [email protected] or by calling 613-998-1860.

April 12
April 26

Fibre optics installation on Coventry Road - April 15 to May 15

Rogers Communications Canada will be installing fibre optics conduit for a commercial client along Coventry Road between Lola Street and Belfast Road from April 15 to May 15. The work will entail boring, conduit placement and removing and restoring a concrete sidewalk bay.

Free Income Tax Clinic - Until April 30

The Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre provides a free income tax clinic for eligible Rideau-Rockcliffe residents (postal codes: K1K, K1M and some K1G) until April 30. Appointments are required. Book online at www.crcrr.org or call 613-745-0073 ext. 150.

Free Tax Clinic - Until April 30

Burundi We Want, located at 227-815 St. Laurent Boulevard, hosts free tax clinics for low-income individuals until April 30. To book an appointment, please click here.

Volunteer award nominations accepted until May 30

Every year, Volunteer Ottawa seeks nominations for the top volunteers and volunteer programs to celebrate at the VOscars Volunteer Awards Gala! Whether you’re nominating yourself, a friend, family member or an organization, your nominations are key to helping celebrate volunteerism in the Ottawa area. Nominations close May 30. Visit Volunteer Ottawa for details.

Sports for all - Until May 31

Burundi We Want hosts soccer, aerobics and basketball for all ages at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard until May 31. Please use the following links to register:

Aerobics: forms.gle/5oMZhxRqcD9SEATL8
Basketball: forms.gle/XgXuSPwWHGakiau47
Soccer: forms.gle/ASGRcDhT65KxaKYz9

City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities

O-Train Lines 2 and 4 will open on Sundays starting March 16

O-Train Lines 2 and 4 will open on Sundays starting Sunday, March 16. This expansion of service follows the launch of Saturday service on January 25. O-Train Lines 2 and 4 run from 6 am to midnight Monday to Friday, 6:30 am to midnight on Saturdays, and 7:30 am to 11:30 pm on Sundays. B2 parallel bus service will continue to run alongside Lines 2 and 4 until March 29. Starting March 16, Route 99 will be adjusted to make a new connection to Limebank Station. Routes 97 and 99 will continue to run alongside the new lines until New Ways to Bus comes into effect on April 27, 2025. The availability of seven-day service on O-Train Lines 2 and 4 marks the completion of the phased opening plan, which was developed based on the public inquiry report recommendations, lessons learned, and third-party recommendations. OC Transpo will continue to monitor the system to ensure it is delivering a positive customer experience. For updates and trip planning assistance, visit octranspo.com, use the Travel Planner and Transit, or call 613-560-5000. For details, please visit octranspo.com.

Notifications for Para Transpo trips available starting March 17

Beginning Monday, March 17, Para Transpo customers will be able to sign up to receive automated notifications of their upcoming trips. Notifications will benefit customers by offering them a convenient option for tracking their trips without having to call OC Transpo’s Customer Service Centre. This will offer customers the choice to receive notifications by email, SMS text message, or automated voice calls. Standard rates may apply. Customers can choose to receive notifications for the following:

One day before a trip
15 minutes before the estimated arrival time of the vehicle
Actual arrival of the vehicle
Departure of the vehicle after waiting, if the customer does not show up

As of March 17, information about Para Transpo notifications, including how to sign up, will be communicated to customers through various channels, including octranspo.com

Trail Waste Facility Landfill Environmental Assessment - Open House #1 - March 19

The City of Ottawa has initiated a Comprehensive Environmental Assessment (EA) of the proposed short-term expansion of the Trail Waste Facility (TWF) landfill. While the TWF landfill primarily accepts curbside residential waste, it also accepts some waste from publicly run facilities, multi-residential buildings and public dropoffs. It is currently estimated that the TWF landfill could reach capacity in 2034; this estimate is based on status quo disposal and diversion efforts. Through the City’s approved Solid Waste Master Plan (approved by Council on June 26, 2024), the proposed strategy to manage residual waste includes a short-term action of expanding the TWF landfill within its existing property limits, banning commercial waste from the TWF, and redirecting a portion of the waste to private landfills in the area. This Environmental Assessment process pertains to the expansion of the TWF landfill. The City of Ottawa would like to receive community feedback on the proposed expansion of the existing site and is hosting its first Open House:

March 19, 2025 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at South Carleton High School, 3684 McBean St.

Details: engage.ottawa.ca/trail-waste-facility-optimization-environmental-assessment

Click here for the Open House notice.

City launches new podcast series, OttaTalk, with an episode about the nightlife economy

The City of Ottawa has launched the first episode of its new podcast series. This is OttaTalk, where City staff and residents discuss City programs, projects and initiatives, covering topics that affect your everyday life. Things like emergency services, garbage collection and nightlife in Ottawa. Why do we have a three-item garbage limit? What’s a typical day like for an Ottawa Paramedic? What does a Nightlife Commissioner do? A new episode will be posted every month. For more information, please visit ottawa.ca.

Findings from the Consultations in Preparation for the Older Adult Plan 2025-2030

The City of Ottawa is renewing the Older Adult Plan. The first phase of renewing the plan was to understand the current needs of Ottawa’s older adults. From June until September 2024, City staff consulted and engaged with residents and community agencies to collect input on what it was like for older adults living in Ottawa. The findings of the consultations, along with the results from the Evaluation Report, will inform the development of a new iteration of the Older Adult Plan. Approximately 1,300 individuals participated in the consultations, resulting in approximately 7,000 ideas, suggestions and comments from residents and community agencies. Thank you to everyone who provided their input during the consultation period and to the community partners who helped us along the way. The What We Learned Report summarizes the findings and the next steps for the development of the Older Adult Plan 2025 to 2030. You can read the report on Engage Ottawa. Updates on the Older Adult Plan development will be added to the site.

Cleaning the Capital 2025 Spring Campaign - Registration now open

Registration for the Cleaning the Capital Spring Campaign opened today March 14, and cleanup projects will take place across our city between April 15 and May 31. Participants can register their cleanup projects by using the online form available at ottawa.ca/clean. The registration form populates an interactive map with pins that display the location, date, and time of all registered cleanup projects. Participants can choose from a variety of public spaces to clean, including green spaces and community parks, roadsides, shorelines, or even areas around bus stops. Cleanup kits, which include nitrile gloves and black garbage bags, will be made available for pickup by registrants (upon request) at one of fourteen City of Ottawa facilities across the city. Registration closes May 2.

Free Lecture Series - Ottawa Residences of the Prime Ministers prior to 1952 - March 19

Prior to the establishment of 24 Sussex Drive, Prime Ministers had to secure their own accommodations in Ottawa. Join architectural historian Hagit Hadaya who will look at some of the residences they occupied, their personal lives, rather than their political careers, and provide a glimpse into the Ottawa context of their time. Join Heritage Ottawa for this free lecture on March 19 at 7 pm on Zoom. Pre-registration is required. More information is available at heritageottawa.org.

City of Ottawa Cultural Funding - Funding application deadlines: March 19 & April 2

The City of Ottawa’s Cultural Funding Support Unit has upcoming deadlines for funding opportunities that support artists and cultural workers. If you’re an artist part of an Indigenous and equity-seeking community, looking to develop your craft, now is the time to prepare your application!

Youth in Culture Pilot Program

Supports professional development for emerging artists and cultural workers (ages 18–30).
Deadline: March 19, 2025

Equity and Inclusion in the Arts – Seed Award

Provides micro-grants to individuals from Indigenous and equity-seeking communities to advance artistic expression.
Deadline: April 2, 2025

Visit ottawa.ca for full details and to verify program information before applying. First-time applicants are encouraged to connect with a cultural funding officer for guidance.

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.

18th Annual Francophone RendezVous with the Mayor - March 21

The City of Ottawa invites you to the 18th annual Francophone RendezVous with the Mayor on Friday, March 21, 2025. On this day, Mayor Sutcliffe will welcome members of the Francophone community for a breakfast reception and networking event at Ottawa City Hall. This year’s event will focus on the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Festival Franco-Ontarien, highlighting half a century of Francophone pride and cultural engagement within the community.

Date: Friday, March 21, 2025
Breakfast Reception: 7:30 to 8:15 am
Presentation: 8:15 to 9:00 am
Location: Jean Pigott Place, Ottawa City Hall

Accessibility accommodations are available. Paid parking is available underground at Ottawa City Hall. If you would like to attend the event, please complete the registration form.

Ottawa Film Office's 2025 Career Fair - March 22

The Ottawa Film Office is delighted to announce that the 2025 Film, Television, and Animation Career Fair is taking place Saturday, March 22, from, 9 am to 1 pm, at Jean Pigott Place at Ottawa City Hall. Attend and meet local production companies, animation studios, and other industry professionals to learn about current and future job opportunities and what they look for in new hires. You’ll also be able to chat with post-secondary institutions, associations, unions and guilds about the industry programs, resources, and training they offer. Free tickets are available at Eventbrite.

Ottawa Black Film Festival 5th edition - March 28 to April 1

The 5th edition of the Ottawa Black Film Festival is scheduled for March 28 to April 1. The Fabienne Colas Foundation's Black Film Festivals across Canada are symbolic festivals bringing marginalized voices and perspectives to a wider audience and creating spaces for discussing major cultural, social, and socio-economic issues that affect Black Canadians. Tickets and passes are now available. Visit ottawablackfilm.com for details.

Ujima Diversity Job Fair - March 29

Jaku Konbit hosts its annual Ujima Job Fair for diverse communities on March 29 from 12 to 3 pm at City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West. For details, please visit jakukonbit.com/ujima-job-fair. Whether you’re looking for full-time work, internships, or career advancement opportunities, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

28th Annual Forty Under 40 Awards Nominations Open! - Deadline to apply is March 29

Now in its 28th edition, Forty Under 40 is the most sought-after business award program for young business leaders in Canada's National Capital Region. Its 1,000+ recipients include some of the region's most successful and community-minded executives. The Forty Under 40 awards program is jointly organized by the Ottawa Business Journal and Ottawa Board of Trade. The deadline to apply is March 29. For details and to submit a nomination, please visit fortyunder40.smapply.io/prog/forty_under_40_online_nomination_process.

Ottawa Youth Council Workshop - March 30

Join the third Ottawa Youth Council (OYC) workshop of 2025 for an exciting and interactive 3-hour experience designed to elevate the Ottawa Youth Council brand, capture media moments, and get you ready for the first-ever youth citywide elections in 2026! This engaging session will feature a media day, where you’ll have the chance to get professional headshots and share testimonials, as well as an OYC Elections 2026 kickoff for those considering running. Enjoy fun and interactive games, win prizes, and connect with fellow youth leaders over great food and refreshments.

Date: Saturday, March 29, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Fullscript Canada, 360 Albert Street, Suite 200

Details and free tickets: Eventbrite

Grants available for community environmental projects - Deadline is March 31

The City of Ottawa is 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.

Civic Events Funding application process open until April 2

Community organizations can apply for Civic Events funding. Applications will be accepted until April 2, for events taking place in 2025. Civic Events funding helps support family-friendly events in local Ottawa communities. It will prioritize events that are directed towards equity-denied populations and priority neighbourhoods. A total of $50,000 is available, with an eligible maximum amount of $3,000 per event and funding provided one time per organization, per year. To learn more about the Civic Event fund, including eligibility, timelines and how to apply, visit the City of Ottawa website. For more information please email [email protected].

Music on Hold applications welcome by April 3

Music on Hold is a program that brings local music to the City of Ottawa's phone system. When a caller has to wait on the phone, the City wants them to hear your music! The City of Ottawa is furthering its commitment to providing new opportunities to Ottawa's cultural community, while offering residents an enhanced experience when calling the City. The City wants to help musicians reach a broader audience and to show musicians our appreciation. This is a great opportunity for local musicians to share their music with Ottawa residents and beyond! An Ottawa artist has been defined as one who resides within 150 kilometres of the City centre. To participate, submit an #ottmusic application form. The deadline: April 3 at 1 pm

Youth Week 2025 – Mayor or CEO for a Day - Application deadline is April 10

Youth Ottawa is thrilled to announce the biggest-ever expansion of their Youth Week Leadership Contests! This year, in addition to two high school students stepping into the role of Ottawa Mayor for a Day, Y is introducing two new, once-in-a-lifetime opportunities:

CEO of the Ottawa Blackjacks – Shadow Mark Wacyk, the driving force behind Ottawa’s professional basketball team, and learn how a pro sports franchise is managed from the inside!
CEO of Ottawa Community Housing – Join Stéphane Giguère, a leader in affordable housing, and get a firsthand look at how non-profit leadership impacts 32,000+ residents across Ottawa.
Mayor for a Day – Experience a day in the life of Mayor Mark Sutcliffe and see how the City operates behind the scenes!

These unique opportunities allow Ottawa’s youth to step into leadership roles, gain mentorship from top executives, and make their voices heard in shaping their city. Applications are now open! Apply by April 10 at www.youthottawa.ca/2025-youth-leadership-contest. Know an aspiring young leader? Encourage them to apply and take the first step toward shaping Ottawa’s future! For details, please visit youthottawa.ca.

City Wide Sports leagues: Hit the courts and diamonds this spring - deadline for many programs is May 23

Join a City Wide Sports league. Whether it’s on sand, a court or a diamond, City Wide Sports has something for you. It’s a great and fun way to stay active with new or old friends. Individual and team registrations are now open on register.ottawa.ca for a variety of mixed and women’s leagues for ages 18 and up. The deadline for many is Friday, May 23. When registering, you join an existing team or set up your own team. League schedules, standings and leaderboards are available online throughout the season for easy planning and tracking. Options include mixed and women's beach volleyball leagues, women's pickleball leagues, and women's softball leagues. The mixed Spikeball^®league runs from the beginning of July to mid-August at Mooney’s Bay Park. Registration opens in May. Men’s and women’s hockey leagues run from October to February. Registration opens in August.

Beyond the Brim exhibition - Submissions welcome by June 1

The City of Ottawa Museums and Historic Sites are putting together a new exhibition—Beyond the Brim: Tales Told Through the Hats We Wore—and you’re invited to participate. Beyond the Brim will showcase headwear alongside stories about the individuals who wore them and their impact on Ottawa. The exhibition will include hats, helmets and head coverings from the City of Ottawa Museums and Historic Sites collection as well as pieces submitted by local heritage groups, cultural organizations and residents. Beyond the Brim: Tales Told Through the Hats We Wore will open at Trinity Gallery (Shenkman Arts Centre) in winter 2026. You are invited to participate by submitting a proposal for headwear at the exhibition’s Engage Ottawa page. Staff are looking for examples of headwear that are (a) unique in their design and (b) have a story to tell about an individual or community who helped shape the Ottawa we have today. Participants will lend their hat to the City of Ottawa Museums and Historic Sites for the duration of the exhibition. The hat will be returned at the end of the exhibition. The submission deadline is June 1.

Emergency Services News

Calling all local charities: Apply to be the beneficiary of the 14th annual OPS Gala by April 2

The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is pleased to announce that it is now accepting applications for its 14th annual Gala to be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Rogers Centre Ottawa.

To qualify, your organization must be:

A registered charity; and
Provide services to Ottawa residents.

The OPS invites those who qualify to fill out the application form at ottawapolice.ca/Gala before 4 p.m. on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, and let them know about the important work you are doing in the community.

Ottawa Police Crime Map

The Ottawa Police Service Crime Map is an interactive tool that lets you explore year-to-date crime data by neighbourhood and crime type. It’s been redesigned! Have you checked it out lately? experience.arcgis.com/experience/7db5b7d590754c9988d89643542ba646

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.

March 14, 2025 Newsletter

A Message from Councillor King

Your Councillor in the Community

Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities

City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities

Emergency Services News

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