May 9, 2025 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
Dear Residents:
As your City Councillor, I am excited to share a valuable opportunity for you to directly influence how our city operates. The City of Ottawa is currently conducting service reviews to improve efficiency and effectiveness, and we need your input!
Ottawa's greatest strength has always been its people. Each resident brings unique perspectives and experiences that can help us build a better city for all. Whether you have suggestions on improving service delivery, innovative cost-saving measures, or fresh approaches to long-standing challenges, we want to hear from you.
The current theme of the service review focuses on creating "a diversified and prosperous economy" (running from October 2024 to April 2025). This priority aims to lay the groundwork for job creation and economic growth, supporting business investment, talent attraction and retention, entrepreneurship, and promoting Ottawa as a destination for business. Following this, we'll shift to making Ottawa "green and resilient" (May to November 2025), which focuses on reducing emissions, protecting our tree canopy, and implementing the Climate Resiliency Strategy.
A service review evaluates City services to identify improvements in delivery, efficiency, and effectiveness. Both City Council and staff are contributing their ideas, but resident input is crucial to this process.
Any savings discovered through these reviews will be reinvested into the Term of Council priorities, which focus on making Ottawa an even better place to live, learn, work, and play. These four strategic priorities for 2023-2026 include: creating a city with affordable housing that is liveable for all, building a more connected city with reliable mobility options, ensuring Ottawa is green and resilient, and developing a diversified and prosperous economy.
It's important to note that we listen and solicit ideas from residents year-round, particularly during our annual budget process. Your priorities help shape our spending decisions. We also invite residents to participate in important consultations such as the Transportation Master Plan, which sets long-term spending priorities for our City and aligns with our Term of Council priority for "a city that is more connected with reliable, safe and accessible mobility options." This mobility priority focuses on supporting transit and active transportation to advance climate goals and create a healthier, more equitable city for all residents. These ongoing dialogues ensure that resident voices remain at the centre of our decision-making throughout the year.
Working alongside the Service Review Program is the newly formed Agile Government Working Group (AGWG). This group, which includes Mayor Sutcliffe and several Councillors, aims to reduce red tape and enhance service delivery by improving responsiveness and client experience, streamlining processes to save time for residents and staff, leveraging innovation and technology, and adopting best practices for service delivery. These efforts support our commitment to creating "a city that has affordable housing and is more liveable for all" by making city services more accessible and effective.
The 2025 plan includes initiatives focused on allowing residents to track Service Ottawa requests, streamlining the development review process, and enhancing the parks planning process.
These initiatives represent a mission-driven approach to governance that sets bold visions for change. To succeed, the City needs to drive public service innovation, shape markets effectively, and harness collective intelligence – which includes your ideas and feedback.
Visit Engage.Ottawa.ca/yourideas to submit your suggestions. While all ideas will be shared with relevant City departments, those deemed most feasible will receive priority consideration.
I encourage everyone in Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward to take part in this important initiative. Your input plays a crucial role in shaping Ottawa's future, allowing us to prioritize projects, allocate resources effectively, and create a more sustainable and prosperous city.
Together, we can drive positive change and make a lasting impact on our community for years to come.
Rawlson King,City Councillor
Your Councillor in the Community
An amazing and lively entrepreneurial showcase at Ottawa City Hall today hosted by Youth Ottawa featuring innovative products and services created by hundreds of local high school students! Incredible!
The City of Ottawa officially designated a portion of the ByWard Market as the "Irish Village" (Sráidbhaile Gaelach) on May 8. New street signs were installed by the City to mark this area.
Despite the rainy weather, I held a great, productive community roundtable discussion in Bathgate Park this week with many local area residents.
Blasdell Bridge closure - until May 23
The NCC's Blasdell Bridge will be closed from April 28 to May 23, 2025, to create a new multi-use pathway linking the Capital Pathway to Blasdell Avenue.
- Schedule: From April 28 to May 23, 2025
- Location: Blasdell Bridge
- Impact on pedestrians and cyclists: Please take alternate routes
Ottawa Family Cinema presents The Lion King in 3D - May 10
Join the Ottawa Family Cinema at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard, on May 10 at 2 pm for a screening of The Lion King in 3D. A rare chance to see this beloved Disney classic on the big screen in stunning 3D! Book you tickets now! Lion prince Simba and his father are targeted by his bitter uncle, who wants to ascend the throne himself. Tickets: Available at the door – but why not grab yours early at www.familycinema.ca and skip the line!
The City for All Women Initiative (CAWI) and the Overbrook Community Association invite residents to participate in a community walk in Overbrook as part of their Caring Cities project, an initiative to build care into neighbourhoods through advocating for more inclusive and equitable urban planning. The community walk will identify what care services and amenities already exist in our neighbourhoods and where Overbrook neighbours think they should be improved. Participants will discuss issues such as accessibility, access to amenities, essential services, groceries and housing. With Ottawa’s focus on 15-minute neighbourhoods, this is a key moment to highlight the importance of accessibility, safety, and essential services in shaping caring communities. Everyone welcome to participate on Saturday, May 10, from 2 to 4 pm. Meet at the Overbrook Community Centre (33 Quill Street).
The National Capital Commission is pleased to announce the return of NCC Weekend Bikedays for the 2025 season. From May 10 to October 13, the Kichi Zībī Mīkan, the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway, and a section of the Queen Elizabeth Driveway will be reserved for active use. The NCC Weekend Bikedays schedule has been adjusted this year to accommodate ongoing construction projects and address feedback received from communities and users. NCC Weekend Bikedays will take place on Saturdays, Sundays, and holiday Mondays:
- On the Queen Elizabeth Driveway, from Somerset Street to Fifth Avenue, from 8 am to 8 pm
- On the Kichi Zībī Mīkan, from 8 am to 12 pm
- On the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway, between St-Joseph and the Aviation Parkway from 8 am to 4 pm
- tea and strawberry cakes
- face-painting for kids
- local vendors (baked goods and upcycled handbags)
The Flamenco For Food and Fun Project - May 10
Where: 15 Rockcliffe Way
Time: Doors open at 6 pm
Admission: NO FEE!
But if you are able, please bring:
- Non-perishable food items for the Partage Vanier Food Bank
- Your reusable travel mug for FREE tea!
Enjoy an unforgettable night of flamenco music and dance, while giving back to the community. Your food donation will help support those in need in Vanier. Mark your calendars for May 10 and get ready to experience the energy and passion of flamenco!
Manor Park Community Association AGM - May 13
The National Capital Core Area Plan is the NCC's comprehensive land-use plan for the most important federal sites at the centre of the region over the next 20 years. Building from the work of the original 2005 plan, the current plan showcases a renewed vision for the National Capital Region. So far, we have held three rounds of public and stakeholder consultations. The feedback received has helped shape the themes, concept and sectors that frame the renewed plan's recommendations. Residents are invited to comment on the final draft of the plan.
- When: May 1 - 15
- Where: online
For more information on the National Capital Core Area Plan or to see our previous public consultation reports, please visit the NCC project page.
The City is looking for the public's feedback on the design concept of the Eugene Martineau Fieldhouse, located at 710 Mikinak Road in Wateridge Village. The new building will sit west of the existing rink and basketball court and east of the existing trees, which will be protected. Pedestrian links to the multi-use pathway along Mikinak and internal park pathways will be provided. This facility will provide a multi-use community space for meetings and gatherings, a kitchenette to support facility usage, change room space for skating, and facilities for community events and equipment storage. Four washrooms will support the community. Construction is slated to begin in 2026, but before the City breaks ground, staff would like your input. Share your thoughts by completing an online survey by May 16. For details, please visit Engage Ottawa.
Wateridge Village Community Safety Meeting - May 26
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.
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 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.
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 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
New Plant Your Place! program - Trees still available for Ward 13
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 launched March 31, and trees are available on a first-come, first-served basis. At this time, there are still trees available for Ward 13. 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!
City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities
10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan Refresh
Every municipality is required to have a 10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan (10-Year Plan) under the Provincial Housing Services Act, 2011, and this has been a requirement since 2014. The Province sets the basic requirements for what housing and homelessness plans must include. At a high level, they must be 10 years in length, be refreshed every 5 years, and include:
- An assessment of current and future housing needs
- Objectives and targets related to these needs
- Measures to meet the needs
- How progress will be measured
The City last updated its 10-Year Plan in 2020, so the five-year refresh is underway. The refresh includes:
- Looking at our current and future housing needs
- Creating new objectives and targets that meet our housing needs
- Reviewing how we will achieve the plan’s goals
- Deciding how we will measure progress
Sign up for ongoing updates as we work with the community to update the plan: engage.ottawa.ca/10-year-housing-and-homelessness-plan-refresh-2
Stay informed during emergencies with Ottawa Alert
Ottawa Alert, the City’s new public emergency notification system, is now available. In an emergency, the City will send guidance and recovery information directly to your personal devices through Ottawa Alert. For more information and to sign-up: ottawa.ca
Pole Replacement and Planned Power Outage - Springfield Road - May 13
Date: May 13, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Total customers impacted: 15
Help redesign the new Mooney’s Bay pavilion - deadline for feedback is May 17
Saturday, May 17 | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Peter A. Herrndorf Place, National Arts Centre
Free Event – Everyone Welcome!
Join the NAC for an unforgettable afternoon of vibrant rhythms, colourful traditions, and joyful connection at South Asian Celebration Day! Experience the rich cultural tapestry of South Asia through live artistic performances representing India, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan – including a special performance by JUNO Award-winning band Autorickshaw. Enjoy the captivating energy of a live DJ, get a beautiful henna design, and bring the little ones for a family craft activity filled with creativity and fun. Whether you're reconnecting with your roots or exploring something new, this free event is open to everyone. Come celebrate! Details: nac-cna.ca/en/event/38973
Ottawa Riverkeeper Gala - May 21
The Volunteer Expo is a twice-yearly in-person event — it’s like a job fair, but for volunteering! Dozens of organizations are represented at each event and attendance is free. Simply show up during the Expo to talk to organizations face-to-face about their open volunteer positions and how you can get involved. This event is for people who are seeking a volunteer position. There will not be any volunteering activities happening live at the Volunteer Expo. We recommend attending with an open mind and being ready to talk to organizations whose work interests you. Learn more: volunteerottawa.ca/events/calendar/expo
Date: Thursday, May 22, 2025
Time: From 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Location: Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave, Nepean
Jack's Gala - May 24
Release of Draft 2 of the New Zoning Bylaw - Consultations & Youth Engagement opportunities - May 29, June 2 & 3
A Joint Planning and Housing and Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee meeting will be held on Monday, March 31, where Councillors will consider the updated Draft 2 provisions, including potential options for several key policy issues:
- Minimum parking rates for Villages
- Maximum building height in N1 and N2 – Neighbourhood Zones
- Conversion of the R4 – Residential Zone to N4 – Neighbourhood Zone
- Building height transition framework
- Communal parking lot permissions in Neighbourhood (N1-N6) Zones
Join City staff for Public Engagement Events:
Staff hope you will join them June 2 at our In-Person Workshop being held at Ben Franklin Place, 101 Centrepointe Drive. They will also be hosting two virtual citywide open houses on May 29 and June 3, from 6:30 to 8 pm. Registration for the virtual Open Houses will open May 15.
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 using the public comment form. The final version of the new Zoning By-law, Draft 3, will be presented later this year for Council approval.
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 will be available online on May 16! Visit ottawa.ca/doorsopen for more details.
Subsidized bike racks on private property
The City continues to offer subsidized bike racks to local businesses, multi-unit buildings and non-profit organizations for installation on private property. Black hanger bike racks can be purchased at 50% of the bulk cost. There are now three options available for purchase this year (with the reduced price identified):
- Four-Ring Hanger: $430 + HST
- *NEW* Two-Ring Hanger: $260 + HST
- *NEW* One-Ring Hanger: $175 + HST
For more information: ottawa.ca/helloveloprogram.
Emergency Services News
Police warn of airbag thefts targeting Honda Civics
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is warning vehicle owners following a recent spike in overnight airbag thefts from late-model Honda Civics in the City’s east end. The week of April 14th, police received over a dozen reports of airbags being stolen from Civics parked outdoors. In each incident, the targeted vehicles appeared largely undamaged, with no other items reported missing by the majority of complainants. Many of the vehicles had alarm systems. Most complainants also confirmed that their vehicle’s doors were locked the time of the theft. The East Neighbourhood Resource Team (NRT) is actively investigating these thefts. Anyone with information is asked to contact East NRT’s A/Sergeant Wayne Clayton at 613-236-1222 ext. 2980. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or online at crimestoppers.ca.
Protect your vehicle: tips to prevent airbag theft
- Park in well-lit, secure areas or garages when possible
- Consider using a steering wheel lock to deter theft
- Install an alarm system or dash camera with motion detection
- Be alert for signs of tampering around your vehicle
The OPS encourages residents to report any suspicious activity in the area. To report a crime in progress, please call 911.
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.