June 12, 2026 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
March 28, 2025 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
Dear Residents:
On March 21, I was proud to join Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, Chief of Police Eric Stubbs, Councillors Ariel Troster and Theresa Kavanagh, and community partners and City staff to launch the "Ottawa Stops Hate Together" campaign at the Ron Kolbus Lakeside Centre. The date was significant—coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination—and underscored the City’s commitment to combating hate in all its forms.
This initiative comes in response to troubling statistics from the Ottawa Police Service, which reported a 23.5-per-cent increase in hate-motivated incidents in 2023, with Jewish and Muslim communities facing particularly targeted attacks.
As Council Liaison for Anti-Racism and Ethnocultural Relations Initiatives, I brought forward a motion in November 2023, directing staff to develop specific anti-hate initiatives aligned with the City's Anti-Racism Strategy. I'm pleased that our City Council approved $150,000 in the 2025 budget for this crucial work.
The "Ottawa Stops Hate Together" campaign represents a shift toward meaningful action and community empowerment through several key initiatives: a Train-the-Trainer Program to equip hundreds of individuals with skills to respond effectively to hate incidents; a community calendar highlighting anti-hate initiatives and cultural events throughout the year; and educational programming developed in partnership with hundreds of students from Carleton University and the University of Ottawa.
The launch event featured keynote speaker Nathan Hall, CEO of Culture Check, who shared insights on addressing racial inequity. The ultimate goal of the campaign is to create a city where diversity is celebrated, inclusion is standard, and hate has no place. This work cannot be accomplished by government alone—it requires all of us working together across differences of background, belief, and experience.
I want to thank the Community and Social Services Department, particularly the Gender and Race Equity, Inclusion, Indigenous Relations and Social Development team for their tireless work in bringing this campaign to life.
We are also thankful that the Ontario Solicitor General has awarded a $168,000 boost to the United for All coalition, strengthening its anti-hate initiatives across Eastern Ontario. United Way East Ontario, which leads the coalition, will use the funding from Ontario's Safer and Vital Communities Grant program to organize events, workshops, and training aimed at combating various forms of hate, including anti-Black racism, antisemitism, Islamophobia, anti-2SLGBTQ+ sentiments, and misogyny.
The funding from the Ontario government will help equip community leaders with the tools to address hate incidents and promote anti-hate advocacy in their communities. United for All aims to create a ripple effect by training local leaders who can spread their knowledge and create more allies in the fight against hate.
As we move forward with this initiative, I invite all residents to consider how they can contribute to making Ottawa a safer, more welcoming community for everyone who calls it home.
Personally, I will continue to dedicate a tremendous amount of effort and energy towards making Ottawa a more equitable City. I was honoured this week to be recognized with King Charles III's Coronation Medal for promoting “equity, inclusion and diversity," as well as “positive change across Ottawa." I will continue to encourage a caring, compassionate, productive and unifying vision for our city along with the majority of residents to collectively improve our quality of life.
For more information on upcoming events and training opportunities concerning the "Ottawa Stops Hate Together" campaign, please visit ottawa.ca/en/city-hall/creating-equal-inclusive-and-diverse-city/ottawa-stops-hate-together.
Rawlson King,
City Councillor
Your Councillor in the Community
Had an excellent, productive roundtable discussion with Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward residents at the incubator13 coffee hour this afternoon at the Rideau Community Hub!
Happy to greet the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, the Honourable Edith Dumont, during her Civic Call to Ottawa City Hall, with many other Council colleagues this week.
Enjoyed speaking today at the “Ottawa of Our Dreams” town hall held by the African Canadian Association of Ottawa, on behalf of Mayor Sutcliffe, which focused on unlocking economic potential for diverse communities. Happy to attend with Barrhaven West Councillor David Hill.
Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities
Spring Snow and Ice Weather Event
Environment Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement for the Ottawa Region advising of a spring snow/ice weather event forecasted to arrive late Friday and last until Monday. This system is expected to bring snow, ice pellets and freezing rain. Local snowfall and ice pellet accumulations of 10 to 15 centimetres and ice accretion from the freezing rain between 5 and 10 millimetres are possible. Surfaces such as highways, roads, walkways, and parking lots will become icy and slippery, and there is a possibility of power outages and tree damage from the ice accretion. It is expected that more warnings will be issued as the event draws nearer. Given the current forecast, a Significant Weather Event may be declared as conditions become more certain.
In preparation for this spring snow/ice weather event, the City has escalated to a “Monitoring” stance. As part of the Public Works Department’s preparedness work, Roads and Parking Services are preparing snow-clearing and salting equipment, filling salt domes and readying to deploy all resources. Parks Maintenance will also be out in full force, pre-salting City facility parking lots (with a priority on Fire and Paramedic stations), as well as lots serving recreation centres. Traffic Services will be monitoring traffic signals and managing mobility implications, with on-call personnel prepared for controller and signal issues. Forestry will monitor wind and ice accretion and is set to respond for downed trees and dangerous limbs.
Be alert for storm notifications and weather changes in your area. Check back here, the City's Facebook, Bluesky and X (formerly Twitter) feeds, or local news media for the latest information. For updates and impacts to City of Ottawa services due to the upcoming spring storm and possible freezing rain, visit ottawa.ca/en/spring-storm. Check back often for updates that will be published as they become available and follow the City on its social media channels.
TRAVEL CONDITIONS
Avoid travelling during the storm. Make preparations and complete essential errands before the storm arrives. If you must travel during the storm, plan ahead and give yourself extra travel time. Always adjust to the conditions of the roads and remember – blue lights flashing means road crews are on the job! Never pass a snow plow or other snow-clearing vehicle. For the latest information on snow clearing and other road impacts visit Roads, sidewalks and pathways.
INFORMATION SOURCES DURING EMERGENCIES
Knowing how to find the most up-to-date information during a weather event or other emergency is crucial. Before, during and after an emergency, refer to the sources below to keep yourself, your family and your neighbours as informed as possible. Every emergency is different. Some of the information sources listed below may not be available at all times or may be slower to update during different types or phases of an emergency. Remain calm and continue to check for updated information. Visit ottawa.ca for information sources.
WHAT RESIDENTS CAN DO
- Are you ready? To help ensure your safety and the safety of your family, now is a good time to prepare your emergency kit.
- Safety is a priority for our Public Works team, and we will be out in full force. Conditions will be hazardous, and residents are reminded to give themselves extra time and adjust to the conditions of the transportation network.
- At this time, there is no need to create a service request for routine snow clearing. Service requests should only be created for emergencies, such as downed tree limbs blocking sidewalks, roads or the cycling network.
- Exercise caution, especially with children and pets, when around waterways.
- Residents are encouraged to follow river reporting. Many useful links to forecasting partner websites can be found at River flooding | City of Ottawa.
POWER OUTAGES
For more helpful tips, visit: ottawa.ca
Free Tax Clinic - Until April 30
Volunteer award nominations accepted until May 30
Ottawa Family Cinema presents Mufasa: The Lion King - March 29
Join the Ottawa Family Cinema at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard, on March 29 at 2 pm for a screening of Mufasa: The Lion King in 3D. Mufasa, a cub lost and alone, meets a sympathetic lion named Taka, the heir to a royal bloodline. The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of a group of misfits searching for their destiny. Tickets are available at the door or at familycinema.ca.
40th Vanier Sugar Festival - March 29 & 30
The Vanier Sugar Festival is celebrating its 40th anniversary 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. 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.
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. **Please note: the event may be rescheduled for April 6 due to the forecast. Please check the Eventbrite link the morning of March 29 for updates.
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 encourage 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.
Trenchless Rehabilitation Program - Hillsdale & Vaughan - Beginning this spring
The City's Trenchless Rehabilitation Program takes sewers nearing the end of their lifecycle and uses Cured In Place Pipe (CIPP) liners, a trenchless technology, to rejuvenate the existing pipe and expand their usable life without the need to dig up the roadways and replace the pipes. The following sites have been identified in Ward 13 for CIPP repairs:
- Hillsdale Road combined sewer
- Vaughan Street sanitary sewer
The work is expected to begin within the next two months. Updates will be shared as soon as the construction timeline is finalized. Notices will be delivered to affected residents. The first step will be to flush, video and measure the sewers. This should take about a half or full day at each site. With this information, staff will have a liner created off-site. Staff will then return in a month or two, to install the liners. This should take one to two days per site. There will be some minimal disruptions to traffic. A truck will be parked at each end of the pipe segment on top of sewer openings. Traffic impacts should be minimal. Noise will be comparable to loud generators or loud trucks during the installation process.
Second Annual National Tartan Day at the National Cemetery of Canada - April 5
Join the Sons of Scotland for a grand evening filled with music, poetry, and history! This celebration will honour the history of Scottish Ottawa and Canada while paying tribute to the enchanting power of the pipes and drums. Taking place April 5 at 7 pm at Beechwood Cemetery. For details, please visit beechwoodottawa.ca. For tickets, please visit Eventbrite.
Featuring:
- Sons of Scotland Pipe Band and special guests – Enjoy a mesmerizing performance of pipes, drums, and tradition.
- Poet Chris Brown – Captivating poetry inspired by Scottish heritage. Beechwood Historian and Director Nicolas McCarthy – Providing insights into the rich Scottish roots of Ottawa, found right at Beechwood.
Dementia Care Workshop Series - Until April 8
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.
Intro to Improv - April 9 to 30
Come and try improv at the Rideau Community Hub, 815 St Laurent Blvd., from April 9 to 30, 6:30-8:30 pm. Improv builds your self-confidence, your creativity and your communication skills. But most of all it is about rediscovering the joy of play. Beat the post-winter blues, make new friends, and treat yourself to some unforgettable laughs. 18 yrs+ Learn more at: improvembassy.corsizio.com/event/67baa514de4e309e8d5dc713 or check out the Improv Embassy website at www.improvembassy.com.
Financial Literacy Workshop Series - Beginning April 9
BMO and Incubator13 will be hosting a FREE Financial Literacy Series Workshop!
First Workshop: Want to manage your money more effectively? Learn budgeting tips and everyday banking essentials in this interactive session!
When? Wednesday, April 9 | 3 to 5 pm
Where? Incubator13, Rideau Community Hub (Room 124) at 815 St. Laurent Boulevard.
Light refreshments will be provided.
Free registration – Scan the QR code in the poster above, visit BMO Financial Literacy - Registration Form or email [email protected].
Phase 5 Transportation Master Plan public consultations - April 10
The City is getting ready to launch the Transportation Master Plan Phase 5 public consultation! City staff will share draft recommendations for the Transportation Master Plan's Capital Infrastructure Plan, including the proposed transit and road networks, project priorities, and implementation plan. Stay tuned for consultation materials that will be posted at the end of March. The City will host online and in-person public consultation sessions on the Transportation Master Plan's Capital Infrastructure Plan. Virtual sessions will include a presentation followed by a question-and-answer period. In-person sessions will have display boards showcasing project information, and members of the project team will be available to answer questions. The same information will be presented at all sessions, but discussions at each session may focus on projects specific to the local geographic area. You are welcome to attend any of the sessions, regardless of your place of residence. Sessions take place virtually and in person in Kanata, Orleans, Nepean and in Ward 13:
Thursday, April 10 6:30 to 8:30 pm
Overbrook Community Centre, 33 Quill Street
For more information and to register for a virtual session, please visit Engage Ottawa.
St. Paul's Park - Proposed fitness equipment concepts - feedback welcome by April 11
My office along with the City of Ottawa’s Recreational, Cultural and Facility Planning Department welcome feedback from area residents regarding proposed concepts for the future fitness equipment at St. Paul’s Park. The design options can be reviewed at Engage Ottawa. The deadline to submit feedback is April 11.
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.
Overbrook Community Association AGM - April 15
The Overbrook Community Association Annual General Meeting (AGM) is scheduled for Tuesday, April 15 at 7 pm at the Overbrook Community Centre, 33 Quill Street. Come hear what the OCA was up to over the past year, an update from Councillor Rawlson King, and share what's important to you. You can also join the meeting online. Please register here for the virtual meeting link: ZOOM The OCA is on the lookout for enthusiastic individuals to join the board. All are welcome. If you are interested, please fill out this short expression of interest form.
New Ways to Bus Information Sessions coming to Rideau-Rockcliffe - April 22, 28 & 30
OC Transpo's new bus network will focus on frequency, local neighbourhood service, and connections to key destinations. New Ways to Bus includes more than 100 routes and is planned to launch on Sunday, April 27, 2025, opening up new connections across the city. Every neighbourhood and most customers will see changes to their trip. The new network is a key part of OC Transpo’s 5-Year Roadmap and is based on the results of the 2023 Bus Route Review. New Ways to Bus meets the Council-approved Transit Services budget. It is a big step towards OC Transpo's goal of increasing bus service reliability to 99.5 per cent, alongside the Bus Maintenance Action Plan and ongoing employee recruitment efforts.
**OC Transpo will be holding New Ways to Bus information sessions in April for Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward 13 residents.
At these local sessions, OC Transpo staff will share information about Ward 13-specific route adjustments that may affect your daily bus trips and will provide you with the information you need to help you navigate the new route changes. All Rideau-Rockcliffe residents are welcome the following information sessions:
- St. Laurent Complex in the Solarium Room, 515 Coté Street: Tuesday, April 22 from 6 to 8 pm.
- NEW DATE: in Wateridge Village at Alliance Park on Hemlock Road at Codd's Road: Monday, April 28 from 5 to 7 pm. Look for the OC Transpo bus parked on Hemlock.
- St. Laurent Library branch, 515 Coté Street: Wednesday, April 30 from 1 to 4 pm.
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.
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
Adopt-a-Road/Adopt-a-Park program
Since the program’s inception in 1996, the Adopt-a-Park/Adopt-a-Road program continues to see annual growth in program participation. The program attracts many civic-minded and environmentally conscious individuals, families, community groups and businesses that are committed to keeping public spaces clean, green, and litter-free.
The program currently has over 260 active Adopt agreements, including over 170 park adoptions and nearly 90 road adoptions. In 2024, Adopt program staff received over 50 new Adopt applications and processed over 40 renewal applications. Adopt participants make a commitment to cleaning up a park, or a kilometre or more of roadway, for a period of two or five years, and generously volunteer their time to clean up litter and debris a minimum of twice a year – typically, once in the spring and once in the fall. To recognize these valuable efforts, a sign displaying the name of the program, and the adopting individual or group is installed (upon request) at the park or along the roadway. Adopt-a-Park/Adopt-a-Road applications will be accepted annually between March 15 and September 15, rather than year-round. This targeted application period aligns with the spring and fall Cleaning the Capital campaigns. Ottawa’s Adopt-a-Park/Adopt-a-Road program invites you to be a part of something amazing! You can make a difference by volunteering to keep your local park or roadside litter-free. Register to volunteer: Ottawa.ca/adopt
Please stay off sports fields and baseball diamonds!
Residents are reminded that sports fields and ball diamonds remain closed. Ball diamonds and sports fields need maintenance and drying time before they open and could be damaged if used while in their current condition. Staff will be monitoring the sports fields and weather conditions throughout the remainder of March and April. Once it has been determined that ball diamonds and sports fields are ready for play and not at risk, the City will advise the public and confirm the opening dates.
Release of Draft 2 of the New Zoning Bylaw
The City of Ottawa's new Zoning By-law project team has announced there will be a Joint Committee meeting of the Planning and Housing Committee and the Agricultural and Rural Affairs Committee on March 31, 2025. This meeting represents a significant step in the development of the City's New Zoning By-law, which aims to shape the future growth and development of our city. The staff report and the second draft of the proposed new zoning by-law are now available to the public on the City of Ottawa’s committee and Council eScribe and at engage.ottawa.ca. All residents, stakeholders, and interested parties are encouraged to review these documents in preparation for the upcoming discussions.
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
New Plant Your Place! program launches March 31
The City of Ottawa’s new Plant Your Place! program makes it simple for residents to plant trees on their private residential properties. Through the City-Wide Tree Distribution stream, any Ottawa resident with space for a tree can apply to receive one at no cost. The program launches at 9 am on March 31, and trees will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Approved participants will be invited to pick up their trees at a Tree Distribution Event this spring and will receive guidance on proper planting and care. Want to learn more about eligibility, planting requirements, and available tree species? Visit envirocentre.ca/plant-your-place for full details. EnviroCentre is proud to deliver the Plant Your Place! program in partnership with the City of Ottawa. Request a Tree!
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.
Launch of the public engagement process for the next Municipal Culture Plan - April 1, 2 and 3
The City is now embarking on its first city-wide cultural planning process since 2012. With the aim of developing a new municipal Culture Plan, we are setting the stage for culture to thrive in every neighbourhood and village across Ottawa. The new plan will reflect our diverse communities by recognizing the many ways culture is experienced in our city, with the goal of reaching 10,000 residents. Join the City of Ottawa for the public engagement process launch for Ottawa's Next Culture Plan, where we will explore the future of culture in Ottawa together. This is an opportunity for residents, artists, cultural groups, and community leaders to help shape a new city-wide Cultural Plan that reflects all of Ottawa’s communities. To ensure broad participation, this engagement process includes online surveys, focus groups, interviews, community-led sessions, and a culture roadshow visiting each municipal ward. Our goal is to make these opportunities accessible so all residents can share what culture means to them.
- (French) April 1, 2025 Richelieu-Vanier Community Centre 6 to 8 pm
- (English) April 2, 2025 Michele Heights Community Centre (Bayshore) 6 to 8 pm
- (Bilingual with simultaneous interpretation) (Virtual) April 3, 2025 Online 12 to 1:30 pm
Places are limited due to venue capacity. Please let us know you're planning to attend by registering. Registration Form
Gender-Based Violence and Violence Against Women Community Feedback Sessions - April 1 and 9
The City of Ottawa is developing a comprehensive three-year Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Violence Against Women (VAW) Action Plan. To enhance the development and implementation of the action plan, OCTEVAW will be hosting community feedback sessions to further engage the community.
The aim of the sessions is to:
- Report Back: Present the findings of the GBV-VAW Sector Forum and the asset mapping study.
- Engage Discussion: Facilitate a discussion to gather additional insights and feedback.
- Validate Plans: Ensure the action planning process is rooted in the needs identified by the sector.
Register for one of the sessions using the links below:
- Session 2: Tuesday April 1 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm – 2225 Mer-Bleue Road, Orléans, ON K4A 5M3
- Session 3: Wednesday, April 9 from 12:30 to 2:3 0pm – 115 Ritchie Street Unit #9, Ottawa, ON K2B 8N6
For details, please visit Engage Ottawa.
HUBBUB 2025 - April 2
Everyone is invited to CityStudio Ottawa’s celebratory student showcase and network event, HUBBUB 2025, which will showcase the remarkable and diverse array of projects co-created during this academic year by the brilliant minds of our community, City of Ottawa staff, students and faculty members from the University of Ottawa, Carleton University, and Algonquin College. This event is a testament to the creative, energetic, and innovative spirit dedicated to city-building. Attendees will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the groundbreaking ideas and solutions built through collaboration. Register for HUBBUB 2025
- Date: April 2, 2025
- Time: 11:30 am-2:00 pm
- Location: Nawapon Indigenous Learning Commons, C Building DARE District Algonquin College, 1385 Woodroffe Avenue
- Parking: Visitor Parking - P7, Algonquin College
City of Ottawa Cultural Funding - Funding application deadline: 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!
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.
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
Applications are now welcome from local musicians who want their music featured in the #ottmusic programs Music on Hold and City Sounds. The Music on Hold program plays select local music to callers of the City of Ottawa’s phone system (3-1-1) while they are on hold. This year, up to 25 songs will be selected by a committee of musicians and industry professionals. City Sounds is an annual program including a streamable playlist and other promotional opportunities created to shine a spotlight on local talent. Applications are open until Thursday, April 3 at 1 pm. To be eligible, applicants must be 18 years or older and Ottawa artists. An Ottawa artist has been defined as one who resides within 150 kilometres of the City centre. You can learn more about how to apply by visiting ottawa.ca/ottmusic.
Future of Health and Wellness Speaker Series - April 4
Join Algonquin College and Ottawa Public Health, as they host the next iteration of the Future of Health and Wellness Speaker Series. This session on April 4 will discuss extreme heat’s impact and climate change resilience. This English-only hybrid event is part of a series where prominent leaders from health and wellness fields discuss our health system. The panel discussion will be facilitated by Algonquin College president, Claude Brulé.
Panelists include:
- Dr. Glen Kenny, Professor, University of Ottawa
- Caroline Metz, Managing Director, Climate Resilience and Health at the Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation, University of Waterloo
- Stéphane Giguère, Chief Executive Officer, Ottawa Community Housing Corporation
Climate change is the greatest threat to human health of the 21st century, already affecting the health and well-being of many Canadians. Rising temperatures due to climate change pose significant risks to the health and well-being of our communities and further strain Ottawa’s health care system. In this discussion, we will delve into the multifaceted impacts of extreme heat on public health, urban infrastructure, and social equity. Panelists will share insights on how cities like Ottawa can develop and implement effective cooling strategies to protect their residents. Register to attend either in person or join virtually through Zoom.
Sing into Spring Concert - April 5
Meals on Wheels will be hosting a “Sing into Spring” concert with the Big Soul Project Community Choir on Saturday, April 5 at 7 pm, at Centretown United Church on Bank Sreet. This event is Meals on Wheels' main fundraising event for 2025 and an opportunity to showcase what they do to support clients to live independently. The Big Soul Project Community Choir is one of Ottawa’s largest choir, whose 120+ members share songs of hope, love and peace with their motto “lifting you higher.” For more information about the event, please visit events-mow-ottawa.org.
Registration Now Open for April Planning Primers - April 7 & 9
The Planning, Development and Building Services Department offers the Planning Primer Program to help residents become more aware of, and more involved in, the land-use planning process. The next course will focus on Urban Design, which involves creating public-friendly environments such as charming streetscapes, bustling markets, distinct town centres, safe neighbourhoods and public squares. This educational session will cover essential topics such as the principles explored during site analysis, fundamentals of public space design, and the regulatory framework that guides urban design in Ottawa. The courses will cover urban design basics in an Ottawa context and provide participants with opportunities for questions. There are two dates available and both sessions will cover the same material. Please register for the date and time that works best for you.
Planning Primer – Option One
Date and time: April 7, 2025, from 1:30 to 3:30 pm
Please register in advance of the meeting here.
Planning Primer – Option Two
Date and time: April 9, 2025, from 6 to 8 pm
Please register in advance of the meeting here.
Courses offered are free of charge and registration is available on a first-come, first-served basis. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
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.
Busting Out Ottawa Dragon Boat Club is seeking new members! - Membership Info Night - April 15
Ottawa’s only breast cancer paddling Dragon Boat team would love for you to join them! No paddling experience? No problem! Their coaches will teach you the proper technique, and if you decide to race with the team, they will have you ready for the Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival in June. The team is hosting a Membership Information Event on Tuesday, April 15, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm at Tom Brown Arena. If you have ever received a breast cancer diagnosis, you are invited to participate! At this event, the team will share information about their club, the sport of dragon boating, and the many benefits of participating. You’ll also have the chance to meet some of their members and hear their inspiring stories about why they paddle! For more details, visit www.bustingout.ca.
Cleaning the Capital 2025 Spring Campaign - Registration open until May 2
Registration for the Cleaning the Capital Spring Campaign is now open, 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.
Gloucester Historical Society
The Gloucester Historical Society's e-newsletter includes original stories on Gloucester history and the latest developments at the Gloucester Historical Society including upcoming events. bFor details and to sign up, please visit www.gloucesterhistory.com.
Survey for thermal resilience research
A group of building design researchers from the University of Toronto/Carleton University are conducting a survey study to understand how extensive disruptive events in Canada (such as power outages, equipment failures, wildfires or extreme heat events where heating/cooling/ ventilation systems are not working for more than 24 hours) impact occupant behaviour and health. They are looking for survey participants who have experienced a disruptive event who have experienced these types of events. The survey is anonymous and would provide valuable insights to inform better and safer building designs in the future. Link to survey: forms.office.com/r/C0nVruPeyf You can learn more about this research project at hab.civmin.utoronto.ca/projects/automated-tool-for-evaluating-building-thermal-resilience
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.
Emergency Services News
Introducing CAMSafe: Strengthen Community Safety Through Partnership with Police
The Ottawa Police Service is proud to promote CAMSafe, a new initiative designed to enhance crime prevention and assist in investigations by leveraging community security cameras. OPS is calling on residents with surveillance systems on their property to register and partner with police in keeping our neighbourhoods safe. Visit ottawapolice.ca/camsafe for more info or sign up at camsafe.ca.
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.
Latest posts
June 5, 2026 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
May 29, 2026 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.