November 21, 2025 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
Your Councillor in the Community
Congratulations to the Vanier BIA, Azrieli School of Architecture & Urbanism and the Vanier Community Services Centre on the re-opening of the Vanier Hub on Montreal Road this week!
I was honoured this week to speak at the grand opening of the YMCA Rideau Child Care Centre at the Rideau Community Hub on St. Laurent Boulevard.
Last weekend the World Multicultural Festival celebrated Canada’s mosaic of culture and heritage with amazing food, dance and a series of performances at the Horticultural Building at Lansdowne Park!
Pleased to have been a signatory to the Ottawa Declaration on Black Health this week, advanced during the High-Level Roundtable on Black Community Health which was held at the University of Ottawa and attended by Federal Health Minister Marjorie Michel.
Last weekend it was great to drop by the Vanier HUB on Montreal Road as Carleton University School of Architecture students worked on completing its construction!
Celebrated the fourth anniversary of the famed Indigenous cafe at Lansdowne Park, Beandigen, with co-owner Jayde Naponse last weekend!
Very happy to attend the Ottawa Book Awards at Centrepointe Theatre last weekend as a proud Ottawa Public Library Trustee. Congratulations to local winning authors Nina Berkhout, Denise Chong & Emmanuelle Erny and all the shortlisted finalists!
I had an excellent time celebrating at the Anniversary of the Independence of Barbados Reception held by the High Commission for Barbados in Canada and the Barbados Ottawa Association last weekend.
It was fun to support local Black small businesses last weekend by dropping into the Ujamaa Market held by Jaku Konbit at Tom Brown Arena.
Pleased to have been invited to speak at the Wateridge Village Annual General Meeting this week.
Excellent attendance and discussion at my virtual 2026 City Budget consultation this week.
It was a pleasure to visit Fire Station 57 on Beechwood Avenue last weekend to thank our firefighters for the incredible work that they undertake on a continuous basis to protect our City.
Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities
Outdoor rink volunteers urgently needed for Dr. John Hopps Park in Carson Grove
Volunteers are urgently needed to maintain the Dr. John Hopps Park outdoor rink at 300 Den Haag Drive this coming winter. One person is needed to lead the puddle rink maintenance, however, several people are welcome to help maintain the ice. Prior experience is not required. City staff provide a training session, manual and videos from previous years. Staff provide guidance on rink maintenance operations. Those interested are invited to connect with City staff by emailing [email protected] or calling 613-580-2590.
Get ready to sing, laugh, and imagine with Gabby and all her kitty friends when GABBY'S DOLLHOUSE comes to the Ottawa Family Cinema, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard on Saturday, November 22 at 2 pm. Step into a world full of crafts, music, magic, and friendship where every adventure is sprinkled with a little imagination and a whole lot of fun. Perfect for preschoolers and families, this special event brings everyone's favourite DreamWorks series to life on the big screen just like being inside the Dollhouse. Do not miss this purrfect family day out filled with giggles, glitter, and Gabby magic. Tickets on sale now at familycinema.ca or at the door.
- Exhibitions featuring local makers, artists, and innovators
- Interactive workshops and hands-on activities
- Family-friendly entertainment and performances
- Community kitchen workshops
The Ottawa Wildflower Seed Library (OWSL) will be in Manor Park on November 22, hosting a free native seed giveaway! Join the OWSL to learn about the benefits of native plant gardening, take in a winter sowing demonstration, and pick up free native seeds.
- Saturday, November 22, 1-3 pm: St. Columba Anglican Church, 24 Sandridge Rd. (Facebook)
Visit the OWSL website for more information about weekly seed giveaways this fall, to see the seed catalogue featuring over 300 native species, and to shop for garden signs and magnets. Can't make it to the in-person seed giveaways? Online seed orders will open on December 26, 2025, on the OWSL website and the OWSL will mail you seeds for free.
Overbrook Community Safety Meeting - Nov. 24
New Edinburgh residents are invited to warm up for the holiday season at the New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse, 203 Stanley Avenue! The Crichton Community Council will be welcoming the community at the annual Holiday Lights Gathering on Saturday, November 29 from 4 to 7 pm. For event details, please visit www.newedinburgh.ca.
Community writer and well known historian Janet Uren will be holding a book launch on Saturday, November 29 at 2 pm at Elmwood School, 261 Buena Vista Road. Her book, "The Villagers" is about the history of New Edinburgh and the families who settled there and many of their descendants who are still in the area. Everyone welcome!
Free Festive Breakfast - Nov. 29
Ottawa-Vanier MPP Lucille Collard and Rideau-Vanier Coun. Stéphanie Plante host a festive breakfast on Nov. 29, from 10 am to 12 pm, at Centre Pauline-Charron, 164 Jeanne Mance St., in Vanier. Everyone is welcome to enjoy freshly made pancakes, real maple syrup, and a special visit from Santa Claus!
Cost: Free
Requirement: Athletes should be comfortable swimming 25 m and in deep water without assistance.
When/Where: Tuesday, December 2 - Splash Wave Pool 6 to 6:30 pm
Register: www.gocapitalasc.ca
Hemlock Park ribbon cutting ceremony - Dec. 3
Manor Park residents are invited to join Councillor Rawlson King for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the reopening of Hemlock Park. The event on December 3, from 3:30 to 4:15 pm at 361 Meadow Park Place, will feature brief remarks, a ribbon cutting, hot chocolate and treats.
Adàwe Crossing Anniversary Celebration - Dec. 4
Everyone is invited to the 10th anniversary celebration of the Adàwe Crossing on Dec. 4 at 6 pm. The event, hosted by the Overbrook Community Association and Action Sandy Hill, will feature a cookie exchange at the pedestrian crossing, located near 1 Donald Street
Manor Park Holiday Night Market and Children's Holiday Market - Dec. 5
Enjoy a Holiday Night Market on Friday, December 5, 5 to 8 pm at 1805 Gaspe. Running in conjunction with the Manor Park Community Council's Children's Holiday Market, there will be plenty to do. A licensed event, you'll find beer and wine, meal options, market vendors and Santa!
Snowflake Breakfast for the Partage Vanier Food Bank - Dec. 5
20 years of pancakes, smiles, and solidarity! Don’t miss the 20th Snowflake Breakfast happening on December 5th — a joyful gathering for a cause that brings us all together: supporting the Partage Vanier Food Bank.
Friday, December 5, 2025 | 7am–10am
Centre Pauline-Charron, 164 Jeanne Mance S.
Get your tickets now and come celebrate with us! You can purchase them at the Centre Pauline-Charron or at www.snowflakebreakfast.com.
Santa is coming to Overbrook - Dec. 6
Overbrook residents are invited to the Overbrook Community Centre, 33 Quill Street, on Dec. 6, from 11 am to 2 pm. Have your free photo taken with Santa. Enjoy free pizza, face painting, popcorn, music and more.
Rockcliffe Park Community Bazaar - Dec. 6
The Rockcliffe Park Residents Association hosts a community bazaar on Dec. 6 from 10 am to 4 pm at 380 Springfield Road. Perfect for your holiday shopping. A percentage of sales will support the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre's Food Bank.
Beechwood Candlelight Service - Dec. 7
You are invited to participate in Beechwood’s Christmas Candlelight Service on Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 6:00 pm. A special way to remember loved ones, our service features a non-denominational candlelight memorial service with carols and a tree-lighting ceremony. Beechwood is happy to welcome back the Ottawa University Choir to lead the carols. A non perishable food item for the Food Bank would be appreciated. Our event is outdoors, please dress warmly. Registration is not required. Details: beechwoodottawa.ca
Creating Christmas Magic - Dec. 7
The Vanier Museopark, in partnership with the Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est and the Vanier Community Services Centre, invites you to take part in the 4th edition of Creating Christmas Magic, a family event that aims to collect new toys, gift cards, and cash donations for children in need in Vanier. Details: museoparc.ca
- When: Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- Where: Centre Richelieu-Vanier (300 des Pères-Blancs Ave.)
- Musical performance by Kristine St-Pierre et le groupe de Noël at 11:30 a.m.
Those who are unable to attend this community celebration, but would still like to take part in Creating Christmas Magic, can make a monetary donation online or by dropping off new, unwrapped toys in donation boxes at the following locations:
- Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est Head Office 4000 Labelle Street
- Centre Pauline-Charron 164 Jeanne Mance Street
- Le coin du livre (2200 Montréal Rd, Ottawa, ON K1J 6M5)
- Vanier Museopark 2e floor of 300 des Pères-Blancs Avenue
Hurricane Melissa Relief Drive - every Saturday until Dec. 6
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Donating essential items such as non-perishable food, hygiene products, and clothing;
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Sponsoring shipment or transportation costs; or
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Spreading the word within your networks.
Projects and Construction Activities in and around Ward 13
- Winter Shutdown Date: Construction operations are currently anticipated to continue through early December 2025. At that time, the Contractor will suspend operations for the winter season.
- Current Status: The bulk of the primary construction work is expected to be complete before the winter shutdown.
- Spring Finalization: Crews will need to return briefly in the spring of 2026 to finalize the remaining reinstatement works (e.g., permanent paving, concrete and landscaping).The Contractor will actively monitor all temporary reinstatement works throughout the winter months to ensure public safety and accessibility are maintained.
Aecon Utilities continues work on the Enbridge Gas St. Laurent Pipeline Replacement project at multiple locations in Rideau-Rockcliffe, Beacon Hill-Cyrville and Alta Vista. The project is near completion with restoration (resurfacing) for Coventry Road in the coming weeks. More than half of the pipe replacement will be completed by mid-November. Lane reductions and temporary road closures/lane closures, pedestrian and cyclists rerouting will continue as is. To address road conditions, the City and the Councillor's office has asked for more frequent street sweeping.
- Cummings Ave. between Ogilvie Road and Cyrville Road, as well as Cummings at Labelle
- Michael Street from Belfast to Labelle
- St. Laurent Blvd. between Belfast and Tremblay
- Ogilvie Road from Cummings Avenue to the St. Laurent Blvd. intersection
- Coventry Road from St. Laurent Blvd., past the Vanier Parkway towards the RCMP building
- Belfast between Lagan Way and Michael Street
- Tremblay Road at Avenue K intersection
The work involves the installation of a new 16-inch gas main. Much of the work is being done overnight from 7 pm to 6 am in order to avoid major traffic implications during peak travel periods.
Road Closure - Queen Mary Street - Dec. 1 to 12
A contractor will be installing new site services, including water, sanitary and stormwater, at a property on Queen Mary Street, beginning the morning of Dec. 1. A road closure is required between Marion Avenue and the Vanier Parkway. The duration of the road closure will last approximately from the morning of December 1 through to December 12. Notifications have been provided to nearby residents.
Dagmar Infrastructure Renewal Project - Community Information Sessions - Dec. 4
Hydro Ottawa is embarking on an essential infrastructure renewal project that extends into both Rideau-Vanier and Rideau-Rockcliffe wards. Hydro Ottawa will be undertaking the multi-year, multi-phase Dagmar Infrastructure Renewal project to replace aging equipment and upgrade our electricity distribution system. This work is localized specifically within the North Vanier area and is an essential requirement to help meet growing electricity demand while improving overall system reliability. This initiative is one of the many projects they are prioritizing as a core component of Hydro Ottawa’s commitment to modernize its entire electricity grid. These proactive, sustained investments across our service territory ensure Hydro Ottawa can provide a reliable and ultimately more sustainable electricity supply for all of their customers.
As part of the Dagmar Infrastructure Renewal project, Hydro Ottawa will:
- upgrade a total of 291 electrical poles
- install 120 new electrical transformers
- install approximately 15 kilometres of overhead primary and secondary conductors
- install new underground duct work and 2 kilometres of new underground primary conductors
Work is scheduled to commence in January 2026 and has an estimated completion date of December 2027. As this project advances, customers will be further notified should a planned power outage that impacts their residence or business be required to complete work safely. Over the coming days, customers who will be impacted by this project will also receive these details.
Hydro Ottawa will be holding two virtual community information sessions on Thursday, December 4, 2025. Please join us at one or both of the sessions to learn more about the project and speak directly with members of the team as we complete this important work.
Afternoon information session
Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025
Time: 12:15 to 1 pm
Registration: hydroottawa.com/dagmar
Evening information session
Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025
Time: 7 to 7:45 pm
Registration: hydroottawa.com/dagmar
City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities
Do you need help clearing your driveway and/or walkway during the winter? - Application deadline Nov. 28
The City of Ottawa offers snow removal programs to assist older adults and persons with disabilities.
- The Snow Go program provides a matching service for older adults and people with disabilities to hire an individual or contractor to clear snow from private driveways and walkways at an affordable rate.
- The Snow Go Assist program provides financial assistance to eligible low-income older adults or persons with disabilities to help with their snow removal costs.
Consult the Snow Go and Snow Go Assist program website to find out more about eligibility and funding available. To apply, contact your local community support agency. For a list of these agencies, visit the City of Ottawa website and click on the apply tab, call 3-1-1 or call 613-580-2400 for VRS. The deadline to apply is Friday, November 28.
Older Adult Plan & Invitation to join Older Adult Plan Roundtable
The City of Ottawa has released the Older Adult Plan 2025-2030. This is the fourth version of the Plan since 2012. It builds on past efforts and focuses on making Ottawa a supportive community where everyone can age with choice and dignity. The Plan was shaped by input from residents during public consultations and developed in collaboration with community agencies. It was approved by City Council in November 2025. The new version has a stronger focus on working with community partners to help make a bigger, more lasting impact. Read the Older Adult Plan 2025-2030.
To help guide the Plan's progress, the City is creating an Older Adult Plan Roundtable. This group will include City staff, community partners and older adult residents. We are currently seeking five volunteer older adults to join the Roundtable. A selection process will be used to ensure fair and equitable representation. If you are interested in applying to volunteer for the Roundtable, please complete the application form on Engage Ottawa.
Free lecture - Thomas Seaton Scott; Canada's First Chief Architect - Nov. 19
Enjoy a free virtual lecture hosted by Heritage Ottawa on Zoom on Nov. 19 at 7 pm. The varied career of Thomas Seaton Scott (1826-1895) includes his formative years in Britain, a grand tour of Gothic architecture in Italy and Germany, the design of railway stations for the Grand Trunk and Canadian Pacific, and numerous churches—including St. Bartholomew in Ottawa. His 10 years as Chief Architect at Public Works (1871-1881) saw a brief flourishing of Second Empire style and his personal responsibility for buildings such as Ottawa's Drill Hall, the West Block Mackenzie Tower, completion of the Library of Parliament, the Parliament Hill Summer House, and the first Supreme Court. Pre-registration is required by clicking here. For details, please visit HeritageOttawa.org.
Help Santa Toy Parade - Nov. 22
The Help Santa Toy Parade is back for its 56th year! The parade will be on November 22 at 11 am, departing from Ottawa City Hall on Laurier Avenue West. Give generously to the Help Santa Campaign where your donations will go directly to support the important work of Ottawa's Toy Mountain, which gives toys to local families that might otherwise not be able to have gifts at Christmas. There will be a new parade route this year starting on Queen Elizabeth Driveway at Somerset Street West, proceeding south on Queen Elizabeth Driveway and ending at Lansdowne Park. To volunteer, donate or for more details, please visit toyparade.ca.
Upcoming Webinar: Eastern Ontario Native Seed Partnership - Nov. 24
The Eastern Ontario Native Seed Partnership hosts a webinar on Monday, November 24, from 12-1pm (ET). The webinar, "Native Seed 101", will be presented by Jenny Fortier, Founder and CEO of Northern Wildflowers Inc., and the Chair and a founding member of the Native Seed Producers of Canada. Join Jenny for an interactive session designed to boost your confidence in navigating the native seed world. Together, we’ll explore how native seed is produced, priced, and selected, we'll share resources to help with planning seed-based restoration projects, best practices for working with native seed producers, and what to look for in seed mix design and sourcing. Participants will gain practical insight into how to make more informed choices related to seed-based restoration projects. Learn more and register for the webinar here.
City of Ottawa Youth Forum - Nov. 24
Youth and young adults age 15 to 25 are invited to a Youth Forum at Bayview Yards, 7 Bayview Station Road, on Nov. 24, from 10 am to 2 pm. The event is free. Come join City staff and their partners at Bayview Yards for an exciting event where your voice matters! This forum is all about you and your city. Share your ideas, thoughts, and dreams for the future. Let's come together to make a difference and shape the future of our city. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with other young leaders and be a part of something big. Registration is required. Spots are limited. To learn more, get involved, and find other events in your community: engage.ottawa.ca/youth-social-development
OC Transpo Customer Satisfaction Survey - Open until Nov. 24
OC Transpo is taking part in an international customer satisfaction survey by the International Bus Benchmarking Group. This survey is conducted every year by transit agencies around the world. The results provide information that helps transit agencies improve their services. The survey includes questions about reliability, security, ease of use and other service factors. It takes approximately five minutes to complete. All responses remain anonymous. The survey will be available until November 24. Fall Customer Satisfaction Survey | OC Transpo
Small Business Saturday - Nov. 29
Small Business Saturday is November 29! Did you know that 66 cents of every dollar you spend at a small business stays in the community? This holiday season let’s support local entrepreneurs who keep Ottawa strong. Details: www.smallbusinesseveryday.ca/home
Ecology Ottawa's Second Annual Youth Summit - Nov. 29
Ecology Ottawa is hosting its annual Youth Summit on November 29 at 9:30 am at Richcraft Hall, 1125 Colonel By Drive, bringing together youth aged 16 to 23 from across the city to connect, learn, and lead on local environmental action. The Summit will feature expert speakers, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities for young people passionate about climate, sustainability, and community change. This is a great opportunity for youth to get inspired, build leadership skills, and contribute to a greener Ottawa. Spaces are limited, so please only register if you intend to attend. Interested participants can learn more and register at Eventbrite.
E-Scooter 2025 End of Season Survey - open until Nov. 30
The 2025 e-scooter pilot season will end by November 15. As in previous years, the end-of-season survey is now available on the City’s website here: End of Season Survey. This survey, which closes November 30, is open to everyone, whether you have used the shared e-scooters or not.
Ottawa City Council adopted a series of urban design guidelines in 2007–2008, covering everything from individual facilities (e.g., gas stations) to broader areas like Mainstreet corridors. These guidelines support the City’s planning and development review processes and are used by staff, developers, community groups, and residents. Currently, there are no guidelines specific to mid-rise buildings (5–9 storeys). This project will create a comprehensive set of design guidelines for mid-rise buildings to help implement the Official Plan and guide the design of buildings, driveways, parking, landscaping, and adjacent streets. Participate in the survey before December. More details at Engage Ottawa.
Location: 110 Laurier Avenue, City Hall, starting in Jean Pigott Place and proceeding to Marion Dewar Plaza
City accepting commemorative naming fall applications - until Dec. 2
The City’s Commemorative Naming Program is now accepting fall applications to nominate people, histories and legacies that have helped shape Ottawa’s community. The nomination period runs until December 2. Commemorative naming can be applied to various municipal assets, such as new streets, indoor and outdoor amenities, major facilities and parks. The next application period will take place in the spring from March 20 to May 1, 2026. For more information, visit the commemorative naming page or contact the commemorative naming team by email.
The Mayor's 23rd annual Christmas Celebration - Dec. 6
Mayor Mark Sutcliffe hosts his annual outdoor Christmas celebration at City Hall on Dec. 6 from 3 to 6 pm. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, roast marshmallows over a campfire, enjoy hot chocolate and taffy on snow, skate on the Rink of Dreams, enjoy the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at 4:45 pm, as well as horse-drawn wagon rides and live entertainment. To help those in need and to share in the spirit of the holiday season, admission to this sponsored event is a donation to the Ottawa Food Bank. Indulge in delicious BeaverTails for only $2 with all proceeds going directly to those in need.
Applications now open for the Province’s Anti-Hate Security and Prevention grant program - Applications due Dec. 11
The Ontario government is taking action to protect communities and combat hate incidents by investing an additional $12.75 million in the Anti-Hate Security and Prevention Grant (AHSP). The grant helps faith-based and cultural organizations implement safety measures, including security guards, building upgrades and surveillance cameras to ensure their community spaces remain safe and secure. Applications for the AHSP grant are now open, and eligible organizations are encouraged to apply by Dec. 11 at 5 pm. The grant provides up to $10,000 to community organizations to improve or implement new measures to protect their spaces from hate-related incidents. Details: www.ontario.ca
Eligible organizations include:
- Religious and spiritual communities (e.g., mosques, synagogues, temples and churches)
- First Nations, Inuit, Métis and Urban Indigenous organizations
- Cultural groups (e.g., 2SLGBTQQIA+ groups, Black, Asian and other diverse organizations)
- A complete list can be found at Ontario.ca/AHSP
"Fortune" Solo Exhibition by An Nguyen - Until Jan. 19
The exhibition "Fortune" shares An Nguyen’s personal story leaving war-torn Vietnam and living in Canada as an immigrant Canadian woman, mother and artist. It also commemorates 50 years since the fall of Saigon (April 30, 1975) and Project 4000. She hopes this show celebrates the achievements of the Vietnamese community and offers audiences a greater insight into Asian culture. An specializes in acrylic paintings and curating art events. Her paintings depict beauty rooted in traditional Asian celebrations and customs, reframing female Asian stereotypes and motherhood expectations. Her exhibition can be viewed at the Atrium Art Gallery at Ben Franklin Place, 101 Centrepointe Drive, until Jan. 19. Details: www.annguyenartist.com
Emergency Services News
Draft OPS Budget focused on service, district policing -- includes multi-year efficiencies plan
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) tabled its 2026 Draft Operating and Capital Budget to the Ottawa Police Services Board (OPSB) today – a spending plan that continues to advance the Board’s Strategic Priorities, focusing on service delivery and community safety, staffing stabilization, and district policing. Visit ottawapolice.ca for details.
A Decade of Compassion: Helping Women in Ottawa through the Purse Project - Donations welcome Nov. 22 to Dec. 14
Citron Hygiene Warehouse
2855 Swansea Crescent, Unit 150
Ottawa Police Stations
474 Elgin St. (8 am - 6 pm)
3343 St-Joseph Blvd. (9 am - 6 pm)
211 Huntmar Dr. (9 am - 6 pm)
Shoppers Drug Mart Locations
174 Bank St.
702 Bank St. (Unit 700)
1080 Bank St.
181 Greenbank Rd.
3781 Strandherd Dr.
- pads and tampons
- body and face wash
- shampoo and conditioner
- deodorant
- toothpaste and brushes
- shaving products