June 12, 2026 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
May 23, 2025 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
Dear Residents:
I'm pleased to share that the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee and the Environment and Climate Change Committee this week have jointly approved a new water rate structure set to take effect in 2027. This new structure aims to distribute water, wastewater, and stormwater costs more equitably while keeping water bills affordable for Ottawa residents and economically competitive with other Ontario cities.
The good news for most residents is that the changes will be minimal. The average residential property will see a 2-per-cent decrease in their water bills, while multi-residential properties will generally see no change. Non-residential properties will experience an average increase of 5 per cent. The structure is designed to be revenue-neutral for the City.
For stormwater rates, the City will transition to billing based on impervious surface area (paved or hard surfaces) in urban areas and the villages of Manotick, Richmond, and Carp. This approach more accurately measures the demand that properties place on our stormwater system and encourages climate resiliency by promoting reduction of impervious surfaces.
Rural properties outside these villages will no longer pay a stormwater charge. Instead, they will contribute to a special area levy specifically funding rural roadside ditch maintenance. Most rural properties will see decreased stormwater costs as a result. The Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee will oversee this levy to ensure it aligns with rural needs. Culvert funding will move to the general tax levy, ensuring all properties citywide contribute to culvert maintenance.
The City will also recover more fixed costs for drinking water and wastewater services through fixed fees. These fixed costs, which account for 90 per cent of system maintenance expenses but currently generate only 20 per cent of revenue, will increase to 35 per cent of total revenue recovery. This adjustment will ensure stable funding while still incentivizing water conservation. The new structure will rebalance increased fixed cost recovery across property types and decrease the fixed portion of water bills for low-consumption users.
Additionally, the City will adopt separate rate tiers for residential, multi-residential, and non-residential properties for drinking water and wastewater. This model provides a more balanced approach to both fixed and variable charges, better reflecting actual usage patterns.
The Environment and Climate Change Committee has also approved updates to the Water By-law. Private developments will now be required to install water meters at their property perimeter to reduce water loss risk. The City will offer a one-time Leak Assistance Program for eligible single-unit residential account owners facing large, unexpected water bills due to leaks. New service fees include $567 for same-day cancelled water service appointments and $52 for bill corrections related to denied meter access.
These items will be presented to Council for final approval on Wednesday, May 28.
As always, please contact my office if you have any questions or concerns about these changes.
Rawlson King,City Councillor
Your Councillor in the Community
Thank you to everyone who joined me for my Ward 13 Wildlife Webinar the evening of May 22. My thanks to Dom Ferland, the City's new Wildlife Resource Coordinator, for his excellent presentation. The presentation and additional resources are available on my website. A recording of the webinar is available on my Youtube channel: www.youtube.com/rawlsonking
My thanks to the New Edinburgh Community Alliance for inviting me to provide remarks during their monthly board meeting this week.
150th anniversary of the first Hurdman's Bridge in Overbrook - May 24
Overbrook is celebrating the 150th anniversary of the first Hurdman's Bridge. Everyone is welcome on May 24 starting at 1:30 pm along the National Capital Commission’s multi-use pathway just south of the Adàwe Crossing (west end of Donald Street). Enjoy an afternoon of entertainment to celebrate the bridge that built Overbrook and the launch of the commemorative kiosk.
Odawa Traditional Powwow - May 24 & 25
The Odawa Native Friendship Centre is proud to present its annual Traditional Powwow, celebrating a milestone year - "50 Years of Odawa." Taking place on May 24 and 25, 2025, the event will be held at Odawa’s home location of 815 St. Laurent Blvd.
Doors open at 10 am each day. The Grand Entry both days is at 12 pm. Details: Facebook
Ottawa Race Weekend road closures in Ward 13 - May 25
The Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, taking place May 24 and 25, will require road closures in New Edinburgh and Rockcliffe Park for the international marathon and half marathon routes on Sunday, May 25 from 6 am to 2 pm. The full marathon starts at City Hall at 7 am and the half marathon begins at City Hall at 9 am.
Impacted Roads and Estimated Timing
- Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway (SGEC Parkway) (Princess to Birch): 6:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Lisgar Road (Dufferin to GEC Parkway): 6:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
- Princess Avenue (Sussex to Lisgar): 6:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Buena Vista Road (Minto Place to Lisgar): 6:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Coltrin Road (Acacia to Minto Place): 6:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Acacia Avenue (SGEC Parkway to Coltrin): 6:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Minto Place (Coltrin to Buena Vista): 6:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- MacKay Street at Sussex Drive: 6:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (affected by Sussex Drive closure)
Traffic Considerations and Recommendations
- Ottawa Police will be on site to assist with traffic management and pedestrian crossings when feasible.
- Due to the volume of participants, crossing the course by vehicle may be difficult between 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.
- Residents who need to travel during this window are encouraged to park outside the impacted area on the evening of May 24 and cross on foot the morning of the event.
Details are available here: www.runottawa.ca/torw/plan/schedule To view the route map, please visit this link.
Some OC Transpo services will be affected by road closures and event activity:
- OC Transpo routes 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 18, 19, 20, 56, 85 and night service routes N39, N45, N57, N61 and N98 will be affected.
- Saturday, May 24, detours will start as early as 10:30 am until 9:15 pm.
- Sunday, May 25, detours will start as early as 4:30 am until 3 pm, and there will be no OC Transpo service to Gatineau from 6 am until 12 pm.
- Para Transpo travel times may be affected by planned road closures.
O-Trains Line 1 and 2 will begin running at 5 am on Sunday, May 25 to make it easier for Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend runners, volunteers and spectators to get to the downtown core in advance of the marathon. Double-car trains will be in service on Line 1 throughout the weekend to support the anticipated higher passenger volumes. Customers are encouraged to plan their trip in advance by using the Travel Planner.
Wateridge Village Community Safety Meeting - May 26
Councillor Rawlson King, in partnership with the Ottawa Police Service and Bylaw and Regulatory Services, is hosting a community safety meeting for Wateridge Village residents on May 26, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at Alliance Park at 398 Codd's Road. Food and refreshments will be available starting at 5 pm. The rain date is June 2.
Lane closures - Columbus Avenue - May 26 to 30
A contractor will install services in front of 183 Columbus Avenue. This work will entail excavating across the roadway, thus having to temporarily close one lane and then the other. The work will start on the south side of Columbus Avenue, requiring the temporary closure of the eastbound lane first. They will then move to the north side of Columbus Avenue and temporarily close the westbound lane. One lane will be open at all times and there will be traffic control personnel onsite to guide vehicles through safely. This work is scheduled to start Monday, May 26 through to Friday, May 30 between 7 am and 5 pm each day until the work has been completed.
Welcome to Chez-13 Cafe - May 28
You're invited to our first ever Chez-13 Café! Join us on Wednesday, May 28 from 1:30 to 3:30 pm and enjoy one of our beverages starting at just $1. Your cozy corner for affordable sips & sweet vibes! The event takes place at the Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard in Room 105.
Manor Park Public School Bike Bus - Every Tuesday morning until the end of June
The Manor Park Public School Bike Bus, which was successfully piloted in April, will continue every Tuesday morning until the end of the school year in June. All ages welcome. Children must be accompanied by parents or guardians. Meet at 8:05 am at the Pauline Charron cul-de-sac before heading to the school for an 8:20 am arrival. For details or to volunteer, please scan the QR Code in the poster above.
Governors Walk Lecture for Dementia Awareness & Care - May 29
The Governors Walk Retirement Residence, at 150 Stanley Avenue, hosts a lecture for dementia awareness and care on May 29 at 2 pm. This lecture will be delivered by Andrew Frank, a leading medical expert in dementia research, and will provide invaluable insight into his latest research and best practices in dementia care. Admission is free. This lecture is open to the public.
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.
Overbrook Bike Day - May 31
Overbrook residents are invited to enjoy Overbrook Bike Day on May 31 from 11 am to 2 pm at the Overbrook Community Centre, 33 Quill Street. Test your skills, learn to fix your bike, learn about bike safety, bike handling, and traffic skills, wash your bike and enjoy treats. Hosted by staff at the Overbrook Community Centre in partnership with the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre, Safer Roads Ottawa and Ottawa Public Health. Free safety gear will be available while supplies last. Enter a draw to win a free bike.
College Circle Community Garage Sale - May 31
The College Circle community hosts a community garage sale on Saturday, May 31 from 8 am to 2 pm. This is a rain or shine event. College Circle is located behind the St. Laurent Complex, off De L’Eglise. Everyone welcome!
Inspired By Learning Educational Bursary - Applications welcome until 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 deadline to apply is June 2. For details, please visit ochfoundation.ca.
Ward 13 information session - Draft New Zoning Bylaw - June 4
Councillor Rawlson King hosts a Ward 13-specific information session on the City's Draft New Zoning Bylaw for Rideau-Rockcliffe community associations and residents on June 4 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at 1805 Gaspé Avenue in the Studio Room. The information session will focus on proposed changes in the Draft New Zoning Bylaw impacting corridors, hubs and neighbourhoods. There will be a presentation and map review led by Fotenn, followed by an opportunity to sit with planners from Fotenn for more detailed, one-on-one discussions. Residents are invited to register in advance, however, drop-ins that evening are welcome.
St. Patrick Street Bridge construction - Overnight work from June 6 to July 7
The contractor working on the St. Patrick Street Bridge rehabilitation project will be working overnight on the bridge between Cobourg and the Vanier Parkway from June 6 to July 7, from 10 pm to 7 am. The work will entail saw-cutting of concrete, traffic line painting adjustments, temporary concrete barrier relocation and jacking of the bridge. Project updates are available at ottawa.ca/StPatrickPorterIsland
New Beginnings, Bold Moves - June 5 celebration
CWCLN is proud to introduce Violet's Voice — a new social enterprise rooted in healing, creativity, and economic empowerment for women navigating difficult life transitions. Join us on June 5th as we gather in the community to celebrate this exciting soft launch. This is more than just an event — it's the start of something powerful. Come for the connection, stay for the impact. We'll kick off Business Exchange Week by spotlighting makers, stories, and possibilities that inspire. Whether you're curious, connected, or just craving good energy — this is for you. The event takes place June 5 from 6 to 8 pm at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard, in the cafeteria. RSVP now and be part of the movement: form.jotform.com/250990866070059
Doors Open Ottawa - June 7 & 8
Get ready to explore the hidden gems of Canada's capital as we celebrate the 23rd anniversary of this incredible event on June 7 and 8 from 10 am to 4 pm. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Doors Open Ottawa offers a unique opportunity to peek behind the doors of over 100 significant buildings across the city, many of which are usually closed to the public or charge admission. From embassies and breweries to churches and museums, you'll discover the rich history, culture and stunning architecture that make Ottawa so special. Imagine wandering through a Victorian jail-turned-hostel, or exploring a 1920s garage that's now a bustling community theatre. With a mix of in-person and virtual tours, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, mark your calendars, grab your friends and family, and join us for a weekend of fun, discovery and adventure. The full list of participating buildings is now available. Visit ottawa.ca/doorsopen for more details.
Ward 13 and area - participating venues:
- 1805 Gaspé
- Canada Council Art Bank, 921 St. Laurent Boulevard
- Church of St. Bartholomew,125 MacKay Street
- Rideau Hall, 1 Sussex Drive
- Public Works Big Wheels Expo, 300 Coventry Road
- Vanier Museopark, 320 Des Pères Blancs Avenue
Vanier Bike Fest - June 7 (rain date June 14)
Join the Vanier Community Service Centre on June 7, from 10 am to 12 pm, for the 10th edition of the Vanier Bike Fest at the Centre Francophone de Vanier (270 Marier Avenue). Enjoy a morning of fun with a bike rodeo, BBQ, simple bike repairs, and more. The first 100 registered kids aged 4–13 will receive a free helmet! Registration opens at 10 am. In case of rain, the event will be postponed to June 14. Details: vanierbia.com/event/vanier-bike-fest/
Beechwood Market returns to New Edinburgh - starting June 7
The Beechwood Market returns to New Edinburgh Park, 203 Stanley Avenue, starting June 7 until October 25. Hours of operation will be 9 am to 1 pm. There will be hot coffee, fresh bread, local produce, prepared food, and artisans. Each week will feature a live musician, kids programming (location dependent) and the Community table - a spot to discover local interest groups, services and even the Girl Guides! For details, please visit ottstreetmarkets.ca.
Public Works Big Wheels Expo - June 8
The Public Works Big Wheels Expo is set to roll into The Ottawa Stadium – home of the Ottawa Titans – on Sunday, June 8, from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm. This inclusive event welcomes all ages and offers a dedicated sensory-friendly period (for those who benefit from lighter crowds) from 9 am to 9:30 am. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the various trucks and equipment utilized by public works professionals, offering both educational insights and hands-on excitement. This is a great opportunity for young people interested in pursuing a career in Public Works to speak with both HR staff and operators. Best of all, admission is free! Public Works and Infrastructure and Water Services teams will be on hand, sharing their knowledge on the day-to-day operations, connecting with the communities we serve and promoting the rewards of a future in public works. In addition, starting at noon, event-goers will have a chance to secure free tickets to one of the most family-friendly games in town – that afternoon’s Ottawa Titans baseball game against the Sussex County Miners at 1 pm!
Discover Your Ward by Bike: Rideau-Rockcliffe - June 11
EnviroCentre, in partnership with Councillor Rawlson King's office, is hosting a cycling tour in Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward on June 11 from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. Learn how to navigate around your own community by bike with this cycling tour. This in-person workshop will take a small group on a guided bike ride through parts of Rideau-Rockcliffe. Along the way, we will stop at different pieces of cycling infrastructure, points of interest, and learn all the skills to start planning your own route. Participants will need to bring their own bikes and helmets, and will be asked to sign a waiver prior to participation. This ride will cover approximately 6.5 kms at a slow pace, and will make use of a combination of separated cycling infrastructure (ex: McArthur Ave), on-road cycling infrastructure (ex: Donald Street), and residential streets (ex: Presland, and de l'Église). This guided bike tour series is made possible in conjunction with Councillor Rawlson King, and with sponsorship support from the Dream Community Foundation and Zibi. Space for this activity is extremely limited. Advance registration is required: LetsBikeRideauRockcliffe.eventbrite.ca
Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward 13 Budget Consultation - spring edition - June 26
Councillor Rawlson King is hosting an in-person budget consultation for Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward residents on Monday, June 23, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, in the Main Hall of the Overbrook Community Centre, 33 Quill Street. The hall is fully accessible. Doors open at 6 pm. Light refreshments will be provided. City staff will provide a presentation regarding the City's budget process. This is an opportunity for residents to share their ideas and their priorities for the City's 2026 budget, which will be drafted this fall and approved in December 2025. Advance registration is appreciated: Eventbrite
City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities
Upcoming traffic and transit disruptions downtown from May 26 to 27
Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla are visiting Ottawa next week! Significant traffic and transit impacts are planned across Ottawa for Monday, May 26 and Tuesday, May 27. Some temporary road closures are expected, including areas around the Ottawa International Airport. Get the full details: ottawa.ca
Possible postal disruption may impact City paper billing, invoicing and notifications
With the possibility of postal service disruptions, this could impact the delivery of City paper billing, invoices and other notifications – including water utility bills, property tax bills, invoices and traffic-related infractions. Contingency options are available for residents and businesses. For details, please visit ottawa.ca.
Jack's Gala - May 24
Mayor’s Annual Canada Day Celebration for Seniors - free tickets available starting May 26
Tickets will be available starting Monday, May 26 for the Mayor’s Annual Canada Day Celebration for Seniors, which will take place on Tuesday, July 1 at the Ottawa Conference and Event Centre at 200 Coventry Road, Ottawa. Note this is a new location this year. The sponsored event with Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, starting at 8 am, includes breakfast, served until 10 am, as well as door prizes and live entertainment. Please note that there is no reserved seating, and tickets are required for entry and to claim door prizes. Free tickets are available by calling 613-580-2470, or by emailing [email protected]. Tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while quantities last, with a limit of two tickets per person. A limited number of VIP tickets will be available to couples celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary in 2025
Enhanced security measures at City Hall - starting May 26
Security screening for City Hall visitors will start on May 26. Accommodations are available upon request for people with disabilities and individualized needs. City Hall will remain a safe and welcoming place for everyone. Read more: ottawa.ca
COVID-19 dose recommended for people at higher risk
Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is recommending that individuals at high risk of severe illness, complications or hospitalization from COVID-19 receive an additional dose of a COVID-19 vaccine this spring. In alignment with the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI), those considered at higher risk, who are eligible for a spring dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, include:
- Individuals 65 years of age and older;
- Residents of long-term care and retirement homes, and other congregate living settings for older adults;
- Individuals six months of age and older who are moderately to severely immunocompromised; and
- Individuals 55 years and older who identify as First Nations, Inuit or Metis and their non-Indigenous household members who are 55 years and older.
The recommendation for all other individuals, including infants turning six months of age, is to wait until the fall for their annual COVID-19 vaccine.
Getting your spring dose of a COVID-19 vaccine:
- Pharmacies continue to be the primary point of access for COVID-19 vaccines.
- To find a pharmacy near you, visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/FindPharmacy.
- You can also check with your regular health-care provider to see if they offer the vaccines.
- OPH provides COVID-19 vaccine services only to eligible individuals facing significant barriers to accessing the vaccine in our community. For more information on how eligible residents can receive their COVID-19 vaccination, visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/COVID19Vaccine.
Traffic Services Spring Operations: Temporary Traffic Calming, Pavement Markings, Traffic Signals
With citywide street sweeping well underway, City staff have started reinstating temporary traffic calming measures, refreshing pavement markings, and conducting seasonal traffic signal maintenance. For the complete update, please visit www.rideau-rockcliffe.ca
How Residents Can Help
- Report missing or damaged flex stakes, pavement marking concerns, or traffic signal issues by calling 3-1-1 or submitting a Service Request at Ottawa.ca/311.
- Adhering to posted speed limits and being vigilant for pedestrians and cyclists, especially with the increase in active transportation during the warmer months.
- Check out the City's traffic webpage and stay up-to-date on all the latest and ongoing traffic impacts across the city.
Ottawa Stops Hate Together events
The City of Ottawa, along with its community partners, launched a new campaign on March 21, 2025 called Ottawa Stops Hate Together, to rally against hate crimes and promote inclusion. This campaign is in response to a rise in hate and bias-related incidents in the city, and aims to connect communities with the city and its history. Events are taking place as part of the campaign, and all are open to the public at no cost. Registration is now open. Each of these events honour the challenges expressed by the more than 1,200 individuals who participated in the engagement for the Anti-Racism Strategy. The tours are accessible, offered over multiple dates and have bilingual options.
-
Unearthing our Roots on Ottawa Routes – Partnering with local organizations who give tours into our City’s history contributed by equity-denied groups.
- Black History Ottawa – The History in the Streets bus tour of the downtown region. Tours run Wednesdays and Saturdays from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm from May to October. Black history in Ottawa Streets
- National Holocaust Monument IWalk App – A remarkable way to enhance visits to the National Holocaust Monument in Ottawa. Download the app for iOS or Android. For more information and instructions visit IWalk.
- Chinatown Walking Tour – with artist Don Kwan. Tours run on Saturdays from May to October. Don Kwan's Chinatown Walking Tour
- Queer History of Ottawa Walking Tour by Fairy Cowboy Toursy – A tour of Ottawa’s Gay Village. Tours run on Sundays from 2 to 4 pm from in July and August. Queer History of Ottawa Tour
- Indigenous Walking Tours – Jaime Morse hosts Indigenous Walks, a walking tour that tells visitors the Indigenous history of downtown Ottawa. Tours run on Fridays and Saturdays from May to October. Indigenous Walking Tours
- Gendered Islamophobia Book Discussion – This event will be held on June 16 from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Richcraft Theatre at Shenkman Arts Centre. Registration is required.
City of Ottawa Parks Maintenance Spring Update
City staff have been hard at work on winter cleanup, preparing ballparks, grass maintenance and cutting, ensuring sports fields are ready for use, cleaning pathways to sports fields and parking lots, seeding areas in need, sweeping and repairing tennis and pickleball courts. Should a field remain closed due to weather or other circumstances, we ask you to stay off them for your safety as all fields are inspected for divots or trip hazards before they are opened, and closed fields have not been inspected! Playing on these fields in wet conditions can also compact the soil, hinder water absorption, create aeration problems and force grass roots to work harder to break through the soil. The chance of root disease increases and the quality of the turf decreases. Using the fields before they are ready can lead to increased wear and tear in the goal creases making it more difficult for our crews to maintain.
Notice anything that needs the City's attention? Please submit an online service request by emailing or calling 3-1-1. The City's enhanced Parks Maintenance webpage will make sure this is triaged to the right personnel and is the fastest way to help staff get the job done.
Boulevard gardening update
The official start of spring peak leaf and yard waste season
It’s officially peak leaf and yard waste season. Twice a year, in the fall and spring, waste collection operators have until 8 pm to pick up leaf and yard waste to accommodate the increased volumes of yard waste. Green, black & blue bins and garbage will continue to be picked up as usual between 7 am and 6 pm. Did you know setting out your leaf and yard waste separate from your green bin saves money because it can be composted at the Barnsdale leaf and yard composting pad at the Trail Waste Facility Landfill? Setting leaf and yard waste out separately will be required in 2026, as part of the 2026 Residential Curbside Collection Contract. To learn more about our green bin program and leaf and yard waste, visit: Ottawa.ca/greenbin.
There are several ways to review and comment on Ottawa’s new Zoning By-law - open houses May 29, June 2 and June 3
The City of Ottawa is inviting residents to review and provide feedback on Draft 2 of the new Zoning By-law. Residents are encouraged to review and comment on Draft 2 of Ottawa’s new Zoning By-law on the project’s EngageOttawa page and to attend virtual and in-person open-house events.
In-person open house: Monday, June 2, 6:30 to 8 pm at Ben Franklin Place,101 Centrepointe Drive. No registration necessary
Virtual open houses: Thursday, May 29; 6:00 to 8 pm and Tuesday, June 3; 6:00 to 8 pm. Registration for the virtual Open Houses is now open.
For more details on the project, please visit the Engage Ottawa. If you have any questions or comments, please contact the New Zoning By-law project team at [email protected] or use the public comment form. The final version of the new Zoning By-law, Draft 3, will be presented later this year for Council approval.
AccessAbility Day Resource Fair - May 29
The City's AccessAbility Day event on May 29 includes a Resource Fair from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm in Jean Pigott Place. This informal event will provide attendees with information on City of Ottawa programs and services, with the opportunity to share feedback on the accessibility of these offerings.
Resource Fair
Location: Jean Pigott Place, City Hall
Time: 9:30 am – 2:30 pm
RSVP: No registration required
For more information, please visit ottawa.ca.
On The Road 4 Mental Health fundraising and awareness walk - May 30 & 31
New on-street parking permit registration system launches in June
Beginning in June 2025, the City is improving the process of renewing or applying for on-street parking permits through the launch of a new online system that will streamline operations and be more convenient for the user. This new system will be accessible from MyServiceOttawa, a one-stop shop service where you can manage things like water billing, waste collection needs and now, select on-street parking permits. Rather than needing to submit a new application each time your permit is set to expire, certain permits like monthly on-street residential passes will be eligible for automatic renewals. The system will store the necessary information should you ever need another parking permit, enhancing customer experience and service delivery. It covers the following parking permits:
- Residential
- Temporary consideration
- Small business ID card
- Guest
- Daycare
- Visitor
- Special events – including funerals
- Volunteer
- Healthcare
- Musician and artist loading
- Replacement
For more information, please visit ottawa.ca.
Dream Big. Change The World: A Transformative Leadership Event - June 1
Join us on Sunday, June 1 at 2:00 pm at the Mosaic Convention Centre, 2465 St. Laurent Boulevard, for an unforgettable afternoon where legacy, leadership, and community come together. This is a transformative leadership event that will inspire hope for our future that supports four powerful organizations—one international and three local—that are changing lives through education, leadership, cultural preservation, and empowerment. All profits from the event will support participating non-profits. For details and tickets, please visit Eventbrite. Dream Big. Change The World! is all about inspiring and empowering individuals to step into their leadership and make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Get ready to be motivated, empowered, and equipped with the tools you need to make a difference. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to dream big and have a way forward to do your part—big or small—to change the world.
Wonderland Tea Party for Mental Health at CHEO - June 1
Did you know that the past decade’s crisis in youth mental health meant that CHEO saw a 75% increase in teens seeking support and treatment leading to a reorganization of resources? We are working to strengthen services for younger children in need. Please join local community leaders and our fun-loving guests for the 10th annual edition of the Wonderland Tea Party and help this popular event continue to support CHEO’s dedicated treatment programs for patients in need of tailored mental health services – help affected children start their journey towards the wellness that so many of us take for granted. This enchanting afternoon will support CHEO’s pediatric mental health programs, which provide critical care for kids in crisis, those battling eating disorders, and students in our Steps to Success, Centre Ado, and Back on Track school-based programs. Tickets are now available. Click here!
- Date: Sunday, June 1, 2025
- Time: 1:30 – 4:00 PM
- Location: Mosaic Convention Centre, 2465 St. Laurent Blvd.
Let's Bike Month 2025 - June
This June, join thousands of Ottawa residents in celebrating Let’s Bike Month 2025! The City of Ottawa has been partnering with EnviroCentre to support this yearly cycling campaign for 16 years! With thousands of participants, hundreds of teams, and dozens of events throughout the month, Let’s Bike Month is one of the largest and longest-running cycling campaigns in Canada.
How to participate this year:
- Sign up as an individual and start a team to encourage your community to join in!
- Log your bike rides and see the impact YOU make by choosing to bike!Like or follow Let’s Bike Ottawa on Facebook or Instagram!
- Share your rides on social media and tag us with #LetsBike2025
- Join one of the exciting events or workshops! Hurry – some activities require registration and space is limited!
Let’s Bike Month will be giving away thousands of dollars’ worth of prizes to participants throughout the month of June, JUST for riding their bike. To be entered into the prize draws, you just need to have logged a ride during the month of June. You can see a list of prizes and sponsors here! For more information about the campaign, please contact [email protected].
Help make Ottawa’s landscaping rules clearer - Survey open until June 20
Landscaping plays an essential role in shaping the look and feel of our neighbourhoods. To ensure that landscaping work is completed safely, responsibly, and respectfully, the City is currently reviewing the landscaping rules and requirements set in various by-laws to consider issues with non-compliance, opportunities for education, and whether new rules may be required to clarify contractor and resident responsibilities. Participate in the online survey on Engage Ottawa to share your feedback. The survey will be open for responses until Friday, June 20.
City now accepting spring nominations for commemorative naming - until July 2
The City of Ottawa is now accepting spring nominations for the commemorative naming of municipal assets, including new streets, minor indoor and outdoor assets, major facilities, and parks. This is your chance to honour the people, histories, and legacies that have shaped Ottawa’s community. The nomination period runs from May 21 to July 2, 2025. For more information, visit the commemorative naming page or contact the commemorative naming team by email at namingottawa.ca.
Emergency Services News
31 New Recruits join the Ottawa Police Service at Badge Ceremony
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) proudly welcomed 31 new recruits today during a Badge Ceremony held to recognize those hired in November 2024. The event was attended by the Honourable Michael Kerzner, Elder Verna McGregor, Chief Eric Stubbs, Ottawa Police Service Board Chair Salim Fakirani, and Ottawa Police Association representative Barmak Anvari. For details, please visit ottawapolice.ca
Ottawa Police Service introduces new Mounted Unit
Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, Police Service Board Vice Chair Marty Carr, and Chief Eric Stubbs officially introduced the new Ottawa Police Mounted Unit last week. This launch of the Unit marks an important step in enhancing public safety and operational efficiency, reflecting the Ottawa Police Service's commitment to improving community engagement and meeting diverse policing needs across the city. Supported by funding from the Ontario government, the Mounted Unit expands the OPS’s ability to engage with residents and respond to a wide range of operational needs, including community patrols, crowd management, and crisis response. For more information, please visit ottawapolice.ca.
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.