November 15, 2024 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
Join us for a crucial community gathering at Ben Franklin Place on Sunday, November 17 at 3:00 p.m., as we demonstrate Ottawa's solidarity with those seeking refuge in our city!
The influx of newcomers to Ottawa has reached a critical point, forcing hundreds of vulnerable individuals to sleep on mats in makeshift shelters. Our community centers, intended as vibrant spaces for family programs, have been transformed into emergency accommodations, straining resources and displacing vital community services. In response to this growing challenge, Ottawa is proposing an innovative solution: two purpose-built transitional housing centers, set to open by late 2025. These facilities will offer more than just shelter—they'll provide a comprehensive 90-day support program for up to 300 newcomers, featuring employment assistance, language services, and specialized support for trauma recovery. This initiative represents a significant step forward from current emergency measures, offering dignity and practical assistance to those rebuilding their lives.
Beyond addressing immediate housing needs, this program embodies Ottawa's commitment to humanitarian values and enforces our long tradition of assisting refugees. The centres will serve as bridges to integration, helping newcomers transition from survival to self-sufficiency. Experienced settlement agencies will provide individualized support, ensuring each person receives the guidance needed to navigate work permits, status hearings, and benefit applications.
Seeking asylum is a right under the UN Convention for those fleeing violence and persecution. Here are some resources that address common misconceptions about refugees in Canada:
- Citizens for Public Justice: Busting Myths About Refugees in Canada | Citizens for Public Justice
- The UN Refugee Agency Asylum Myths and Facts - UNHCR Canada
The transitional housing centres proposed are a more appropriate and dignified alternative to the current, overcrowded bunk bed shelter conditions that the City has offered in its community centres. Adding these centres to our city will also allow the community centres that are currently being used as overflow shelters to return to the uses they were originally designed for. This approach also relieves pressure on the emergency shelter system, creating more space for all clients in need of shelter and social services.
For your benefit, City staff have prepared a thorough list of Questions & Answers, which addresses many concerns. Here is the memo that was released by the City of Ottawa on November 7, which explains the process of how the two sites were selected. Here is a City document that captures more information on sprung structures, including what they look like and the features they offer: documents.ottawa.ca/sites/default/files/SprungStructures_EN.pdf
I know the local councillor in Ward 9 is learning more about the site selection, but staff were delegated authority to choose the site based on specific criteria at Council by a majority vote of 22-3. Given the visceral response of many and the misinformation that has persisted about the program, I think delegating authority to City staff on this matter was indeed the most appropriate approach to depoliticize the issue. Notwithstanding, the City welcomes public engagement about this initiative and has been discussing this initiative for more than a year and a half.
As a member of the Community Safety Committee in June 2023, I gave direction that if "the option of semi-permanent shelter is being considered, City staff be directed to review and identify the exact locations of where any semi-permanent shelters may be erected on city-owned land and inform the Committee of these locations. And if feasible, that this report be included as part of regular updates in the implementation of the Strategy up to and including further refinement of medium to long-term initiatives that will be brought forward."
Residents will be able to participate in public consultations during the site plan application process, and my office will be sure to share when this file comes to the Planning and Housing Committee so that residents can provide written or oral delegations.
Ottawa has a proud history of welcoming refugees and other newcomers. By supporting this program, we're not just offering shelter—we're investing in Ottawa's future, recognizing that newcomers bring valuable perspectives, skills, and contributions to our diverse community. Together, we can transform our response to displacement from crisis management to community empowerment.
Join us on Sunday to stand in solidarity with our city’s newest residents and show that we still welcome refugees!
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The Draft Budget 2025 was tabled by City staff at this week's Council meeting. I will continue to seek input from residents about the proposed budget and am currently working with my office to scrutinize every expense, with a view to improve public transit, social services and infrastructure. As I acutely share residents’ concerns, especially about the transit budget, I will ask probing questions to City staff during upcoming Committee meetings to pursue the best investments in our communities before the Draft Budget goes before City Council for consideration and approval on December 11, 2024.
Draft Budget 2025 highlights:
- Draft Budget 2025 identifies $54.2 million in savings through service reviews and continuous improvement initiatives, bringing the total to $207.7 million in savings since 2023.
- Draft Budget 2025 increases investments in key areas such as housing, safety and security, roads and transit.
- Revenue from transit is down with fewer people using the system, infrastructure and construction costs are rising, and funding from provincial and federal governments falls short of needs. To address this, Draft Budget 2025 proposes a 2.9 per cent tax increase, keeping costs low for residents while sustaining important City operations and programs. Recognizing that public transit is essential to the well-being of our residents and the long-term sustainability of Ottawa, the City is also proposing a balanced approach to the 2025 transit budget based on recommendations from the Transit Long Range Financial Plan working group.
Housing
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Draft Budget 2025 will help increase Ottawa’s housing supply, with more affordable options below market rates.
- $120 million over three years in new Provincial Homelessness Prevention Program funding to help address pressures in the homelessness sector for overflow shelters that support singles and families and support the provision of basic needs.
- $48.8 million through Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing’s Homelessness Prevention Program to support the shelter system, housing loss prevention programs, supportive housing, and general housing assistance programs.
- $34.2 million through Immigration Refugee and Citizenship Canada’s Interim Housing Assistance Program to help support the City’s response to asylum seekers.
- $18.9 million in base funding for the Housing Long-Range Financial Plan which could rise to $22.9 million, pending approval of Vacant Unit Tax changes.
- $15.9 million through Housing, Infrastructure, and Communities Canada’s Reach Home program to fund supportive housing providers and the City’s Housing First programs.
Public Safety
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Draft Budget 2025 strengthens emergency services to enhance public safety, so that help arrives faster when needed. These investments also support economic growth by making key downtown destinations more welcoming for residents and visitors. Key investments include:
- The addition of 23 paramedics, 22 firefighters, 10 by-law staff, and improved vehicles and technology to support their work.
- $16 million through the Ontario-Ottawa Agreement to address downtown safety, alternative mental health supports and Transit security.
Learn More
For more detailed information about what is in the Draft Budget 2025, the City has created new supports such as a Draft Budget 2025 Magazine and a Draft Budget 2025 Explorer. The Budget Magazine provides insight into how the budget is created, what elements make up the budget, some of the key financials, an update on service reviews as well as highlights from over 100 lines of services that are advancing Council’s strategic priorities.
The Budget Explorer offers user-friendly interactive charts, graphs and tables to enhance financial literacy and transparency.
Have Your Say
Your vision and your voice are crucial to this process. I appreciate the feedback and ideas I heard during my recent budget consultations for Rideau-Rockcliffe residents as well as for Ottawa's Black, Indigenous and racialized communities. You can watch recordings of these consultation sessions at www.youtube.com/rawlsonking. You are welcome to share your budget-related ideas with me by emailing my office at [email protected] or calling 613-580-2483. You are also invited to ask questions about the draft budget through the City's Engage Ottawa webpage. Ask a question about Budget 2025 before Dec. 9.
Join us at a standing committee meeting. All City Council and standing committee meetings are open to the public and your attendance is welcomed and encouraged. Members of the public may provide either written or oral submissions (or both) to committee meetings related to items on the Committee’s agenda. You can register as a public delegate to present at a budget review meeting of any standing committee, board or commission. Meeting dates are available at ottawa.ca/budget.
You can live stream meetings and access past recordings on the Ottawa City Council YouTube Channel. Regular City Council meetings are broadcast live on RogersTV Cable 22 and live streamed on the RogersTV website. To view the recording of Wednesday's City Council meeting during which the budget was tabled, please visit Youtube. To watch Mayor Mark Sutcliffe's public address prior to the City Council budget meeting, please visit Youtube.
Ottawa Police 2025 Draft Budget
The Ottawa Police Service also tabled its 2025 Draft Operating and Capital Budget to the Ottawa Police Service Board on Nov. 13, highlighting service improvements and community safety initiatives. The Draft Budget is aligned with the OPSB’s strategic priorities and community feedback and includes a tax rate increase of 2.9 per cent and a 1.5-per-cent assessment growth increase.
Service Highlights
- District Policing Model: The District Model will continue to tailor policing to the unique needs of Ottawa's urban, suburban, and rural communities. Increased staffing for Neighbourhood Resource Teams, Youth, Traffic, and Community Policing Officers will return more officers in community roles through the Staffing Stabilization Plan in 2025. By January 2026, an updated operational map will incorporate four districts, reallocating uniform police resources to better serve Ottawa's neighbourhoods.
- Staff Stabilization Strategy: The Service will address critical staffing gaps in frontline and specialized units such as Traffic Enforcement, Intimate Partner Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse, and Fraud. In 2025, 50 new positions, including 32 funded by a 1.5-per-cent increase in assessment growth, will support OPS’s response to Ottawa's growing population.
- Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID): Investments in CID will enhance services for victims, including more investigative capacity and the ability to address staffing needs through additional sworn officers, special constables, and civilian roles.
For additional budget highlights, please visit ottawapolice.ca.
Police Budget Consultation
The Board and the OPS invite Ottawa residents and business owners to share their thoughts on the Ottawa Police 2025 Budget. Public delegations and questions from members of the public and Ottawa City Councillors are welcome during the November 22, 2024, OPSB Finance and Audit Committee meeting starting at 9:30 a.m. via Zoom at the following link. Those looking to be added to the speakers list are required to register in advance by contacting Randa Ben Guedria at [email protected]. When registering, please include a written copy of the comments that will be presented and which will require approval by the Committee Chair. The deadline to register is Wednesday, November 20 at 12 pm. Delegations will have up to five minutes to speak. The Board is also accepting written comments from those who do not wish to speak but would like to provide their feedback. Please email your written submission to [email protected] by the deadline of Wednesday, November 20 at 12 pm.
The OPS 2025 Budget is scheduled for approval by the police board on November 25, 2024. It will later be reviewed and scheduled for approval by Ottawa City Council on December 11, 2024. A complete copy of the OPS’ 2025 Draft Operating and Capital Budget can be reviewed by visiting ottawapolice.ca/2025. You can also request a copy of the report by emailing [email protected].
Your Councillor in the Community
Fifteen residents, including Rideau-Rockcliffe residents Christina Tessier and Paul Fournier, were inducted into the Order of Ottawa at a ceremony at City Hall last night. The Order of Ottawa was created to highlight and celebrate the outstanding achievements of some of the City of Ottawa’s most deserving citizens. During the ceremony, Mayor Mark Sutcliffe also presented Jean-Pierre Saab with the Brian Kilrea Award for Excellence in Coaching, which recognizes an amateur coach who best exemplifies the qualities of leadership and commitment. Congratulations to all!
Paul Fournier is a legend in 2SLGBTQI+ circles, best known as “Peaches Latour,” Ottawa’s first drag queen. Mr. Fournier played a significant part in Ottawa’s Queer history, having been featured in documentaries and publications for his role as an activist and defender of 2SLGBTQI+ rights and freedoms. As a survivor of the “LGBT Purge” between the 1950s and the mid-1990s where suspected 2SLGBTQI+ members of the RCMP and the federal public service were systematically discriminated against and harassed, Mr. Fournier exhibited extreme courage in opposing the pernicious interrogations and investigations conducted by these agencies. Mr. Fournier was personally discriminated against, intimidated and underwent police and RCMP investigations in their attempts to force him to identify gays, with the RCMP calling him a traitor to his country. Mr. Fournier’s contributions have enriched Ottawa’s diverse culture, bringing people together in shared experiences of joy and pride, inspiring future generations of 2SLGBTQI+ individuals and performers to live authentically and proudly.
Christina Tessier is President and Chief Executive Officer of Ingenium – Canada’s Museums of Science and Innovation including the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, Canada Science and Technology Museum, and the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. Under her leadership, Ingenium has consistently delivered engaging exhibitions, educational programs, and initiatives that have ignited a passion for STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) subjects in learners of all ages. Ms. Tessier previously served as Director General of the Canada Science and Technology Museum and Director of Operations at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. Ms. Tessier worked in the cultural field for over 20 years including at the Portrait Gallery of Canada, Parks Canada, and Ottawa’s Bytown Museum. Ms. Tessier is currently Vice Chair of Carleton University’s Board of Governors and served on various boards and committees including the Royal Society of Canada, University of Ottawa, Canadian Museums Association, Ontario Museum Association, and City of Ottawa. She was President of the Council of Heritage Organizations in Ottawa and founding Chair of the Ottawa Museum Network.
Had a great visit to an information fair for new Canadians hosted by Ottawa-Vanier MP Mona Fortier and Ottawa-Vanier MPP Lucille Collard held in Vanier this week. Ottawa proudly welcomes and supports its new immigrants! Attend the Rally for Refugees this weekend! Learn more at http://r613.info/rally
Had a great time exploring the new Burundi We Want space at the Rideau Community Hub this week. This amazing organization provides immigrant settlement and employment services, along with mentoring for youth! Burundi We Want are supportive of refugees in Ottawa!
Great to drop into a newcomer job fair held this week at the Rideau Community Hub which was organized by the Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO)!
Thank you to the many Rideau-Rockcliffe residents and stakeholders who joined me and City staff for a community consultation regarding the proposed development for 47 Beechwood. The video recording of the consultation can be viewed on my Youtube channel.
I was honoured to have laid a wreath on behalf of the City of Ottawa with my Council colleague Stéphanie Plante during the Remembrance Day Ceremony at Beechwood National Cemetery.
Additionally honoured to have participated in the Remembrance Day parade in Vanier and to have laid a wreath at the Eastview Cenotaph. Lest we forget!
Pleased to have attended the annual Remembrance Day Breakfast hosted by the Ottawa Professional Firefighters Association Local 162 with Mayor Mark Sutcliffe along with other Council members and elected officials.
As Deputy Mayor, I was absolutely thrilled to welcome hundreds of attendees to the annual CSAE conference. I was also particularly proud to have achieved my certified association executive designation.
Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities
Programs at St. Laurent Library Branch - Until November 28
- Cruella on Nov. 23 at 11 am
- Casino Royal on Nov. 27 at 6 pm
- Papa ou maman - Nov. 23 at 2 pm
Beechwood Night Market at MacKay - Nov. 16
For a fifth time, Ottawa Street Markets and the Crew at MacKay United will bring you the Beechwood Night Market @ MacKay. A licensed event (Reif winery & Clocktower brewery), you'll find meal options, 20 vendors, live jazz, a flamenco demonstration and a tarot card reader. The Night Market runs this Saturday, November 16, 5-9pm at Memorial Hall, 39 Dufferin. For details, please visit Facebook.
Open Mic Night - Nov. 16
Bring your senses to be entertained or your talent to share at New Edinburgh's open mic at the Fieldhouse, 203 Stanley Ave. Admission is free, but donations (to help pay for a new Fieldhouse PA system) are appreciated. The kitchen bar will be open offering a variety of refreshments including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Performers have two songs or about 8-10 minutes at the mic. Two microphones, a mixer and speakers are available. Performers can register at the door at 6:00 pm. First come, first served to fill the bill. Details: www.newedinburgh.ca/event/open-mic-at-the-fieldhouse
Free Parenting in Ottawa Drop-ins - November 17, 19, 24 and 26
Ottawa Public Health hosts free parenting drop-ins at locations across Ottawa, including at the Vanier Community Services Centre, 270 Marier Avenue on Nov. 19 and 26 from 1:30 to 3:30 pm, and at the St. Laurent Complex, 525 Cote Street, on Nov. 17 and 24 from 10 am to 12:30 pm. Access free in-person support by a public health nurse for infant feeding, growth and development, perinatal mental health. This program is available to expectant parents, as well as parents and guardians of children from birth to six years of age. No appointment is required. Simply drop-in during the clinic hours. For details, please visit parentinginottawa.ca.
Free community dental screenings - November 18, 27 & 28
Ottawa Public Health hosts free community dental screenings at Neighbourhood Health & Wellness Hubs across Ottawa. In Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward, upcoming dental screening clinics are scheduled to take place at the African, Caribbean & Black Wellness Resource Centre at 610 Donald Street on Nov. 27 from 1 to 4:30 pm and at the Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard, on Nov. 18 and 28 from 10 am to 12:30 pm and 1:30 to 4 pm. All ages welcome. No appointment needed. Available on a first come, first served basis. For details, please visit ottawapublichealth.ca.
Coventry Road Planning and Environmental Assessment Study - Online Open House Nov. 19
The City of Ottawa has initiated an Environmental Assessment (EA) study to assess the need to widen and/or improve Coventry Road between Belfast Road and St-Laurent Boulevard. The EA study will investigate options to improve travel environment for all modes (walking, cycling, transit, autos and trucks) as appropriate. Residents are invited to take part in an Online Open House on November 19, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. This will be the first of two (2) Open Houses planned for the study. The second Open House will be held in the winter of 2025.
Presentation: The Online Open House will include a presentation and members of the study team will be available to discuss the project with you and to answer any questions that you may have. Information to be presented:
- Project background and need
- Evaluation of alternative alignments
- Discussion on the vision for the future of the corridor
- Next steps
Registration: To attend, please register by clicking on this link: Zoom Registration Accessibility is an important consideration for the City of Ottawa. If you require special accommodation, or further information or questions, please contact Lise Guèvremont by emailing [email protected]. For more information about this project, please visit ottawa.ca.
Jeffrey, Braemar, Kilbarry, Arundel Avenue, Farnham and Finter Integrated Renewal - Public Information Session Open House - Nov. 20
Why: The objective of this project is to rehabilitate underground and roadway infrastructure that is nearing the end of its lifespan.
When: Construction is planned to start late spring 2025 and be completed by fall / winter 2026.
Where: Affected areas within the Manor Park community include:
• Jeffrey Avenue, from St-Laurent Boulevard to Braemar Street
• Braemar Street, from Ava Road to Arundel Avenue
• Kilbarry Crescent, from Sandridge Road to Ava Avenue
• Arundel Avenue, from Farnham Crescent to St-Laurent Boulevard
• Farnham Crescent, from Ava Road to north-side dead-end
• Finter Street, from St-Laurent Boulevard to west-side dead-end
Who: The engineering firm, Novatech, has been retained by the City of Ottawa to develop design drawings for this project.
Old Railway Rideau River Pedestrian Bridge Environmental Assessment Study - comments due Nov. 20
The City of Ottawa is undertaking an Environmental Assessment (EA) study for the renewal of Old Railway Rideau River Pedestrian Bridge. The bridge carried a single railway track on the former CP Rail Montreal & Ottawa Subdivision until its abandonment in 1966 and was re-purposed by 1972 to carry only pedestrian and cycling traffic. The bridge provides an important multi-use active transportation link between the National Capital Commission’s Rideau River Eastern Pathway and the City of Ottawa’s Rideau River Western Pathway / Rideau River Nature Trail. In 2018, a detailed condition assessment was completed and concluded that the structure was in overall poor condition, with several components showing significant signs of deterioration. The purpose of the EA will be to identify and evaluate options for bridge renewal or replacement considering different alignment possibilities in accordance with the EA planning process.
A virtual public consultation session was held Nov. 6 on Zoom. Presentation materials are available at ottawa.ca/RideauRiverBridge. Please provide your comments to the City's project manager, Kosta Karadakis, by emailing [email protected] before November 20, 2024.
National Child Day - Nov. 20
The Vanier Community Services Centre is hosting an event to celebrate National Child's Day on November 20 from 2:30 to 6 pm at the “Carré de la francophonie” (in front of 290 Dupuis St). The first 100 children will also receive gifts.
Lending Hand Holiday Exchange Program for Rideau-Rockcliffe residents - Apply before Nov. 21
Live in Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward and need extra support during the upcoming holidays period? Online registration for the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre's annual Lending Hand Holiday Exchange program (for those with K1K, K1M and some K1G postal codes) is open until Nov. 21. Registration is limited. Early registration is encouraged. For information and to apply, please visit the resource centre's website or scan the QR code in the poster or call 613-745-0073, ext. 208.
Wateridge Village Community Association AGM - Nov. 21
Wateridge Village residents are invited to attend the Wateridge Village Community Association's annual general meeting, taking place virtually on Zoom on Nov. 21 at 7 pm. To register to receive the meeting link, please visit this link.
Vanier Artisans Christmas Craft Sale - Nov. 24
Donald Street at Vanier Parkway cycling safety improvements - Open House - Nov. 25
The Road Safety Action Plan has the objective of improving safety on Ottawa’s roads. As part of the 2022 RSAP, funds were allocated for design improvements to cycling safety at one intersection. A screening process was undertaken to select the preferred location. The screening process focused on the intersections identified in the Cycling Safety Review of High-Volume intersections. The intersection of Donald Street at Vanier Parkway was selected as the preferred location for the funding. This intersection has received an increasing volume of cyclists and pedestrians since the Adàwe Crossing Bridge was completed in December 2015. The intersection is 500 metres from the Adàwe Bridge and Rideau River Eastern Pathway. It is a signalized intersection. The overall purpose of this project is to undertake a preliminary and detail design leading to a construction project. Included in the scope is a protected intersection at Donald Street and Vanier Parkway. Also included is a multi-use pathway between Vanier Parkway and Grant-Toole Way.
City staff will host a public information session and open house on Monday, Nov. 25 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm in the Main Room at the Overbrook Community Centre, 33 Quill Street. City staff will be presenting the latest design drawings related to the Donald at Vanier Cycling Safety Improvements project. Staff will be present to answer questions and receive comments. There will not be a formal presentation at this open house. Please attend at your leisure. In addition to the above meeting, residents can also participate through viewing and commenting on the online documents to be posted here after the event. Your input is an important part of the consultation process. Your feedback can be submitted to Project Manager, Bin Wang, via the online form, by email at [email protected] or by calling 613-580-2424, ext. 27595 by December 6, 2024.
Rideau Winter Trail Open House - Nov. 28
Interested in learning more about the Rideau Winter Trail and their plans for the 2024/2025 season? Come join the board members and volunteers during the open house of the RWT at The Bridge Public House, 1 Donald Street, on Thursday, November 28 at 7.30 pm. Please RSVP to [email protected]. For details, please visit Facebook.
Community Coffee Day - Nov. 29
The Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre and Incubator13 co-host Community Coffee Days. The next coffee day is Nov. 29, from 2 to 3 pm. Drop by Room 124 at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard.
Festive Breakfast - Nov. 30
Join me, Councillor Rawlson King, and Ottawa-Vanier MPP Lucille Collard for a free Festive Breakfast featuring pancakes and refreshments on Nov. 30, from 11 am to 1 pm, at Heartwood house, 404 McArthur Avenue. Click here for details
Holiday Lights Gathering in New Edinburgh - Nov. 30
Khayrhaye Gala - Dec. 1
Join the Khayrhaye Somali Cultural Centre for a day celebrating the cultural heritage of the Somali community. The Gala Fundraiser will showcase the beauty of Somali traditions, cultural music and a documentary raising funds for Khayrhaye. The event takes place Dec. 1 from 3 to 6 pm at The Rideau Community Hub at 815 St. Laurent Boulevard. For details and tickets, please visit Eventbrite.
Rockcliffe Park Speakers' Night - Dec. 4
The Rockcliffe Park Residents Association features Andrew Cohen, journalist and author of After the Election: Whither America? during a Speakers Night event on Dec. 4 at 8 pm at the Rockcliffe Park Community Hall, 380 Springfield Road. Andrew Cohen, award-winning columnist, former Washington correspondent and best-selling author, will share his views on the implications of this year’s epic election in the United States. For details, please visit rockcliffepark.ca.
Tickets on Sale Now for the 19th Annual Snowflake Breakfast - Dec. 6
The annual Snowflake Breakfast, which generates funds in support of the Portage Vanier Food Bank, takes place Dec. 6 from 7 to 10 am at Centre Pauline Charron, 164 Jeanne Mance Street. Tickets are now on sale. For tickets, to donate or for more information, please visit www.snowflakebreakfast.com/.
Wateridge Village Community Association seeks a treasurer
The Wateridge Village Community Association is seeking to fill the board position of Treasurer. If you would like more information or are interested in volunteering with your community association, please contact [email protected]. They are 100 per cent powered by volunteers!
Become a Wateridge Village Community Association member!
Join the Wateridge Village Community Association. Become a member - for free - to receive the most up-to-date information about your community! It's easy, just click the link: www.wateridgeassociation.ca/join
City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities
Postal disruptions may impact City paper billing, invoicing and notifications
The Canada Post strike action 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. Visit ottawa.ca for more information and for details on how to sign up for paperless billing.
Browse and register for winter programming at register.ottawa.ca
- Registration has opened for recreation, arts, culture and virtual activities.
- In-person registration began November 13, for swimming lessons and begins today, Friday, November 15, for all other activities. Be sure to check the facility’s business hours before visiting.
Ottawa Public Health understands the community concerns associated with improperly discarded needles and drug use equipment. To address this, the City of Ottawa has developed integrated strategies that involve approximately 60 dedicated internal and external partners including Ottawa Public Health. These partners work together across a number of retrieval streams that collect a significant volume of used drug use equipment and home medical sharps. OPH’s Community Needle Retrieval Program plays a crucial role in monitoring the number of discarded needles and drug use equipment recovered and disposed by various streams. OPH has launched the Community Needle Retrieval Dashboard and Community Needle Retrieval Program Web page at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Needles. The dashboard aims to provide transparent and accessible data on drug use equipment retrieval, supporting community efforts by allowing residents and partners to report discarded needles and view retrieval data. The dashboard offers interactive data visualizations, including maps, that display current and historical data on discarded drug use equipment by area of the city. The redesigned Community Needle Retrieval Program webpage will link to reporting tools to simplify the steps for individuals to report discarded drug use equipment and to learn how to safely handle and dispose of them. For more information and details about the Community Needle Retrieval Program, the new dashboard and how to safely dispose of drug use equipment, please visit: OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Needles
Help Santa Toy Parade - Nov. 16
It’s that time of year when kids everywhere are making their lists and checking them twice. For many children in Ottawa, however, it’s a little different – this year, more than ever. Their hoped-for toy may not be under the tree waiting Christmas morning unless we have your help. The Ottawa Professional Firefighters Association's Help Santa Toy Parade is back on track for 2024 for their 55th year! The parade will be occurring on November 16, 2024 at 11 am. The Association is excited to have everyone lining the streets to cheer on Santa as he delivers joy to children everywhere. Give generously to the “Help Santa Campaign” where your donations will go directly to support the important work of CTV and MOVE 100’s Toy Mountain in support of Ottawa's Toy Mountain. Toy Mountain gives toys to local families that might otherwise not be able to have gifts at Christmas. The route will start at Elgin and Laurier where it will head west to Bank Street. At Bank Street it will turn south heading towards Lansdowne Park. For details, please visit toyparade.ca.
For a full list of parades in Ottawa this season, please visit ottawa.ca.
Para Transpo Talk: Nov. 19, 24, 25 and 27
You’re invited to Para Transpo Talk on November 19, 24, 25 and 27. Para Transpo Talk is a series of customer engagement events that are open to all Para Transpo customers, their families, companions and support persons. All are welcome, no matter how often you take Para Transpo. There’s no need to register in advance, just drop in. Customer feedback helps make service better. Customers who join a Para Transpo Talk event will have the opportunity to hear updates on Para Transpo service, speak directly to OC Transpo staff, ask questions, and give feedback. The next opportunity will take place at the following locations: The events will take place indoors and are in-person.
Tuesday November 19: 4 pm to 7 pm, Carlingwood Mall (in the Community Space)Staff will be set up with laptops to help customers register for My Para Transpo, an online tool for booking, cancelling and tracking trips without needing to call. If you can’t make it out to one of the sessions in November there will be plenty of additional chances every couple of months. The next session will be a virtual event in January. For questions about Para Transpo Talk, email [email protected] or call 613-560-5000. For general Para Transpo information, call 613-560-5000 or text 57272.
Easter Seals Trivia Night - Nov. 19
Calling All Trivia-Lovers! The Easter Seals' Naughty or Nice Trivia Night event is a FUN way to kick-off the holiday season and a great opportunity for friendly competition while supporting children and youth with physical disabilities through Easter Seals Ontario. Highlights of the event will include five rounds of trivia, including one Christmas category, complimentary access to pool and ping-pong tables, as well as an Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest! Participants will have the option to purchase food and drink throughout the event, bid on the silent auction items, and socialize with friends, family, and colleagues. There will be prizes for the top two winning Trivia teams, and LOTS of fun spot prizes awarded throughout the night by an entertaining and humorous Trivia Master.
When: Tuesday, November 19, 2024 – 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Community Housing Solutions Workshop - Nov. 21
Synapcity is partnering with the Ottawa Community Land Trust on Nov. 21, from 5:30 to 8:30 pm, for a Community Housing Solutions workshop event featuring a panel of expert speakers to highlight current challenges and help illuminate solutions for community housing. The event takes place at the Deloitte Greenhouse at the Bayview Yards Innovation Centre, 7 Bayview Station. For details or to RSVP, please visit Eventbrite.
40th annual Holiday Fundraising Art Sale and Kid's Niche - Nov. 21 to Dec. 8
The Ottawa School of Art ByWard Market Campus and the J.W. Stellick Gallery are pleased to present its 40th Annual Holiday Fundraising Art Sale and “Kid’s Niche” from November 21 to December 8. A vernissage will be held at the Ottawa School of Art - Downtown Campus, 35 George Street, on November 21 from 5 to 8 pm. Sale dates are November 21 at 5 pm through to December 8. For details, please visit artottawa.ca.
Sparkle & Spice Black Holiday Market - Nov. 23
Everyone is welcome to thesecond annual Sparkle & Spice Holiday Night Market on November 23! Kick off the holiday season with Afrotechture and Baccanalle - eat, shop and vibe at the Oakwood Design Centre in Orleans - we will bring African-Black-Caribbean culture, flavour, shopping and style together for this special holiday event!
EVENT DETAILS
BEING Studio Snow Day Shop Event - Nov. 24
BEING Studio is a non-profit arts organization that offers studio space and art programs for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Everyone is invited to their annual Snow Day Shop to celebrate the amazing talent and artworks made by artists at the studio. Come join us in support of disability arts in Ottawa! The Snow Day Shop takes place Nov. 24 from 10 am to 3 pm at the Bronson Centre, located at 211 Bronson Avenue, in Room 304. For details, please visit Eventbrite.
Heritage Ottawa Workshop - Nov. 28
Do you have mature trees and established gardens you want to safeguard from extreme weather events? HERITAGE OTTAWA WILL HELP YOU DO THE GROUNDWORK!
WHEN: November 28 | 7:00 to 9:00 pm | VIA ZOOM
COST: $50
Extreme weather events are a climate change reality that we will all be facing with increasing regularity. Find out what you can do yourself to mitigate damage, and when professional advice is needed to understand and prepare your property. Join City of Ottawa Climate Change and Resiliency Services expert Connor Renouf and arborist Ian Laidlaw for this 2-hour online workshop that will cover a range of topics related to how weather impacts the outside of your home, including:
- Design and management of rainwater flow
- What rain gardens and permeable pavements are all about
- Prudent care of trees and shrubs using prep & support systems
Participants are encouraged to bring specific questions pertaining to issues they may be experiencing in their own yards and gardens. RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY by CLICKING HERE.
E-scooters End of Season Survey - Until Nov. 30
The City of Ottawa is seeking public feedback on the Shared Electric Kick Scooter Pilot, following its fifth season. The data collected will be valuable for comparing with previous seasons and will be used to help make recommendations for any potential future season. We invite you to fill out this survey about your experiences with e-scooters, including but not limited to, mis-parking, riding on sidewalks, and sound emission. There is also an opportunity at the end of the survey to provide more general feedback and your personal experience with e-scooters. This survey closes November 30, 2024 and is open to everyone, whether they have used the shared e-scooters or not. Please feel encouraged to share this information through your networks. Any other questions, comments and thoughts can be sent to [email protected].
Ujamaa Market Day - Nov. 30
Jaku Konbit, a registered non-profit community-based organization dedicated to advancing inclusivity and promoting involvement from individuals of diverse ethnic backgrounds, hosts a Ujamaa Market Day at Tom Brown Arena, 141 Bayview Road, on Nov. 30 from 10 am 6 pm. More than 50 African and Caribbean vendors will be participating. For details, please visit jakukonbit.com.
Options Housing Fundraiser - Dec. 1
Enjoy a hilarious performance of On the Farce Day of Christmas to help raise funds in support of Options Housing. The holiday comedy will be performed at the Ottawa Little Theatre on Dec. 1 at 2 pm at 400 King Edward Avenue. For details, please visit canadahelps.org.
Ontario Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant - Deadline for funding applications: Dec. 2
The Ontario Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant will provide a one-time grant of up to $10,000 for eligible faith-based, cultural, 2SLGBTQQIA+, First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and Urban Indigenous organizations and communities. Grant funding will help prevent and/or respond to hate-motivated incidents to ensure community spaces remain safe and secure. Funds can be used towards implementing or enhancing eligible protection measures incurred between October 31, 2024, and October 1, 2025. Organizations that received funding for the grant in previous years are encouraged to apply again for 2024-25. The application deadline is Dec. 2. For details and to apply, please visit ontario.ca.
Spare our air – New idling regulations for Ottawa
As of January 1, 2025, a new Idling Control By-law for Ottawa comes into force. Be idle aware! Help reduce unnecessary idling and promote clean air by following the City of Ottawa’s new regulations. Idling is only permitted for a maximum of 10 minutes in temperatures above 27 Celsius or under 0 Celsius, and a maximum of 3 minutes for all other temperatures. Some exemptions apply, visit the Idling Control By-law for more information. Idling information is also available at ottawa.ca. Report excessive idling by calling 3-1-1.
Emergency Services News
2025 Draft Budget Focused on Service Enhancements, Increased Staffing and District Policing Model
Register by Nov. 20 to speak to the committee; submit written comments by Nov. 20
The Ottawa Police Service tabled its 2025 Draft Operating and Capital Budget to the Ottawa Police Service Board on Nov. 13, highlighting service improvements and community safety initiatives. The Draft Budget is aligned with the OPSB’s strategic priorities and community feedback and includes a tax rate increase of 2.9 per cent and a 1.5-per-cent assessment growth increase. "This Draft Budget is designed to meet Ottawa's key public safety needs and will assist us in serving the residents and businesses of our community better," said Chief Eric Stubbs. "It is designed to address gaps in our service and focuses on building public trust while advancing the strategic priorities set by the Ottawa Police Services Board. The OPS continues its commitment to becoming a trusted partner in building an inclusive, equitable, and safe Ottawa." For details, please visit ottawapolice.ca.
Police Budget Consultation Opportunity:
The Board and the OPS want to hear from local residents and businesses about their thoughts on the 2025 Budget. We encourage public delegations and questions from members of the public and Ottawa City Councillors at the November 22, 2024, OPSB Finance and Audit Committee meeting starting at 9:30 a.m. via Zoom at the following link.
Those looking to be added to the speakers list are required to register in advance by contacting Randa Ben Guedria at [email protected]. Requests must include a written copy of the comments that will be presented and will require approval by the Committee Chair. The deadline to register to ensure staff have sufficient time to compile the speakers list and circulate comments to the Committee is Wednesday, November 20 at 12 pm. Delegations will have up to five minutes to speak.
The Board is also accepting written comments from those who do not wish to speak but would like to provide their feedback. Please email your written submission to [email protected] by the deadline of Wednesday, November 20 at 12 pm.
The OPS 2025 Budget is scheduled for approval by the OPSB on November 25, 2024. It will later be reviewed and scheduled for approval by Ottawa City Council on December 11, 2024. A complete copy of the OPS’ 2025 Draft Operating and Capital Budget can be reviewed by visiting ottawapolice.ca/2025. You can also request a copy of the report by emailing [email protected].
Purse Project: Ottawa Police and partners collecting personal hygiene products until Dec. 1
The Ottawa Police Service and our partners Shoppers Drug Mart and Citron Hygiene are once again inviting Ottawa residents to help us collect personal hygiene products for women until Dec. 1. In addition to sanitary and hygiene products like pads and tampons, donations of soap, deodorant, toothpaste & toothbrushes, shampoo & conditioner, and shaving products are also welcomed. We are also inviting the community to donate gently used purses, as they are a discreet way to deliver the products to women in need. In addition to sanitary and hygiene products like pads and tampons, donations of soap, deodorant, toothpaste & toothbrushes, shampoo & conditioner, and shaving products are also welcomed. We are also inviting the community to donate gently used purses, as they are a discreet way to deliver the products to women in need. If you are unable to attend any of these locations and still wish to donate, you can send an e-transfer to [email protected]. For details, please visit ottawa.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.