November 29, 2024 Newsletter

A Message from Councillor King

City budget deliberations continued this week, with the Community Services Committee, Transit Commission and Transportation Committee meeting to examine their respective draft capital and operating budgets.

The Community Services Committee gave approval to a substantial $1.5-billion operating budget, complemented by $159.6 million in capital investments. This funding will target critical areas such as housing accessibility, mental health support, social services enhancement, and community development. Notable allocations include $48.5 million for homelessness prevention programs, an additional $16.9 million through the federal homelessness strategy, and $141.5 million in provincial funding to strengthen the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care system. Over $30 million will also be provided to more than 100 non-profit social service agencies, an increase of $840,000, to address poverty, food security and other priority needs.

Ottawa's Transit Commission approved a $856-million operating budget for OC Transpo in 2025. The budget is designed to address major initiatives including the deployment of zero-emission buses, expanded Para Transpo service, and significant O-Train network developments with Lines 1, 2, and 4 expansion. Ridership data shows some growth, with October recording 67.9 million customer trips, marking a 9-per-cent increase from the previous year. Para Transpo services have seen particularly strong growth, with annual ridership reaching 848,000 customer trips, representing a 16-per-cent increase. The transit system's modernization continues with the recent arrival of the first zero-emission bus, with 26 more scheduled for delivery by the end of Q1 2025. The Transit Commission has also directed staff to explore revenue enhancement opportunities, targeting a 10-per-cent increase in revenues from rentals, retail leases, advertising, and sponsorships in both 2025 and 2026.

Unfortunately, the budget included notable fare adjustments. Most fares will increase by 5 per cent, with adult single rides rising to $4 and monthly passes to $135. The youth monthly pass will be discontinued, while children ages 11 and 12 will transition to a new pre-teen fare of $2. Seniors will maintain their free Wednesday transit benefit but lose Sunday free rides, with their monthly pass adjusted to $78.50, a 60-per-cent increase rather than the 120-per-cent increase originally proposed. Due to the negative impact of the proposed exponential fare increases upon Rideau-Rockcliffe residents, I will continue to work with Council colleagues to seek a reversal of these fare increases before the budget is debated and ratified by full City Council in December.

Transportation infrastructure received significant attention with a $480.2-million capital investment plan approved by the Transportation Committee. This includes $174.9 million dedicated to greenhouse gas reduction initiatives and $143.7 million for climate resiliency projects. The plan encompasses $184.6 million for integrated road, water, and sewer projects, alongside $69.5 million for road resurfacing and $34.8 million for bridge and structure maintenance. Road safety remains a key priority, supported by an $18-million investment in safety initiatives. This includes the installation of 24 new automated speed enforcement cameras, enhanced pedestrian safety measures, and targeted traffic calming near schools. The winter operations budget will increase to $95.3 million, reflecting a $2.8-million boost. Additional investments include $7.7 million for traffic control devices, $2.9 million for automated speed enforcement, and $250,000 for new streetlights.

Budget deliberations will continue with the Audit Committee, Board of Health, Ottawa Police Service, Finance and Corporate Services Committee and the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee all examining their respective capital and operating budgets next week. The budget will then be considered by Council on Wednesday, December 11. 

Learn how you can be involved in this year's budget process at www.ottawa.ca/budget. 

Your Councillor in the Community

Great to have a lively and informed discussion about the City budget with the Smart Youth Network in Vanier this afternoon with Rideau-Vanier Councillor Stéphanie Plante, hosted by Ottawa-Vanier MPP Lucille Collard.

Well attended annual general meeting and open house held last night at the Rideau Sports Centre, which provided the community with an amazing preview of the upcoming Rideau Winter Trail season. Thank you to all the volunteers that make this incredible recreational trail possible each year!

 

It was wonderful this week to join Mayor Mark Sutcliffe and my Council colleagues at the launch of the Montfort Hospital's new strategic plan.

I’m glad that two new benches have been installed in Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward over the last few months under the City’s Integrated Street Furniture Program, both along Donald Street in Overbrook!

As Chair of the Built Heritage Committee, it was great to inspect the restoration of the Hintonburg Pump House last week with City staff and my Council colleagues Ariel Troster and Jeff Leiper. This amazing site is being transformed into a historic monument and new park.

Honoured as Deputy Mayor to extend greetings on behalf of the City last weekend recognizing 58 years of independence for the Caribbean island nation of Barbados. 

It was a pleasure to provide opening remarks with Ottawa-Vanier MPP Lucille Collard at the well attended annual Girls Who Brunch event last weekend, held at the BGC Don McGahan Clubhouse and organized by the African, Caribbean & Black Wellness Resource Centre.

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Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities 

Help provide Christmas meals to 100 local families

To help keep the spirit of Christmas alive during difficult times, the North Gloucester Giants, the Ottawa Police Hoopstars and Athletes Combating Racism are seeking charitable donations to help provide Christmas meals to 100 local families in need. These proceeds, in full, would provide a full holiday meal for those who otherwise may not be able to afford it. Everyone should have the access to a Christmas dinner this holiday season. The partners are hosting a raffle to raise funds for this project; with a signed NFL Minnesota Vikings jersey to be won. Raffle tickets are available until Dec. 20. The raffle draw date is Dec. 22. If you know any families who are in need and can benefit from this project, please let us know as soon as possible by emailing [email protected] to arrange for a dinner basket to be delivered. For details and to donate, please visit this link.

 

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. If possible, please consider bringing non-perishable food donations for the food bank at the African, Caribbean & Black Wellness Resource Centre in Ward 13.

 

Holiday Lights Gathering in New Edinburgh - Nov. 30

Warm up for the holiday season with your neighbours at the New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse, 203 Stanley Ave. The Crichton Community Council will be welcoming the community at the annual Holiday Lights Gathering on Saturday, November 30 from 4 to 7 pm. Listen to festive music performances by the Christchurch Cathedral Choirs and the New Edinburgh Choir. Hang out by the cozy outdoor fire. Make an ornament for your tree. Ride the horse-drawn wagon to view the Holiday lights. Warm your soul with some hot chocolate or mulled wine for sale. A white bearded man in a red suit all ready to hear gift requests will arrive by horse drawn wagon at 5:00 pm. A picture-taking elf with a tripod for your camera will be on hand. In the spirit of giving, bring finger foods to share with neighbours and non-perishable food items for those who are less fortunate. For details, please visit Facebook.

Library programs at the St. Laurent library branch - December

Everyone is invited to participate in the St. Laurent Library Branch's December programs. The branch is located at 515 CotéStreet. The library is open Monday to Thursday from 10 am to 8:30 pm, Friday from 1 to 6 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. The branch is closed Sundays and December 25 and 26. There will be reduced operating hours on Dec. 24 and 31 from 10 am to 3 pm. For details, please visit biblioottawalibrary.ca.

Club de lecture francophone Lison les bandes dessinées 12 décembre, 10h-12h

English Conversation Group Thursdays 6:30 pm – 8 pm 

Groupe de conversation en français Les mardis 18h30 – 20h

Knitting & Crochet Club Tuesdays 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Adult Drop-in programs

• Free movie nights
  • 4 décembre 18h30 Papa ou maman 2 (en français)
  • December 11 at 6 pm Meet the Fockers
  • December 21 at 2 pm The Holiday
  • 21 décembre 11h 100% cachemire (en français)
• La société secrète fondée à Ottawa Le samedi 7 décembre, 13h-14h  Conférencier invité: Hugues Théorêt,  Auteur de La Patente l'Ordre de Jacques-Cartier, le dernier bastion du Canada français. Organisé par la Société d'histoire d'Ottawa
• Let’s Talk Tech: Need help with technology? A member of our team will help with questions related to the device or software. Wednesdays, 2:30 pm 

Children’s Drop-in programs

• Family Storytime (in English) December 2, 9, 14, 16 at 10:30 am 
• Babytime December 3 & 10 at 10:30 am
• Contes en famille (en français) Les 4, 11 décembre, 10h30 
• Family Storytime bilingual December 30 at 10:30 am
• Sensory Storytime (in English) Thursday, December 2 at 10:30 am This program provides a welcoming environment and respects the needs of children from 18 months to 6 years who live with developmental disabilities and/or autism, or who show signs of a developmental delay.
• Homework club Wednesdays, December 4, 11, 18 at 5 pm Ages 6-12 ans.
• P.D. Day Lego® Block Party December 2 at 2 pm
• Nature Crafts December 23 at 2 pm

Teen Drop-in programs

• High School Movies for Teens - Jumanji - December 13, 4 pm

Parenting in Ottawa drop-ins - December

Do you have questions about your baby? Want to know if your child is on track? Do you have questions about your child's growth and development? The Parenting in Ottawa drop-ins are located across Ottawa. Speak with a Public Health Nurse about parenting. 

• Get support for infant feeding
• Learn ways to help your child eat healthy and be active
• Make sure your child is on track with their growth and development
• Ask about your child's social and emotional development

The program is available to expectant parents, parents and guardians of children aged birth to six years of age. No appointment necessary, simply drop-in during the clinic's hours. Clinics are closed on statutory holidays unless otherwise specified. Drop by the St. Laurent Complex on Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 between 10 am and 12:30 pm or the Vanier Community Services Centre at 270 Marier Avenue on December 3, 10, 17, 25 and 31 between 1:30 and 3:30 pm. For more information, please visit www.parentinginottawa.ca/en/dropins.aspx.

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 Partage Vanier Food Bank, takes place Dec. 6 from 7 to 10 am at Centre Pauline Charron, 164 Jeanne Mance Street. For tickets, to donate or for more information, please visit www.snowflakebreakfast.com.

 

Beechwood Holiday Night Market - Dec. 6

The Manor Park Community Council and Ottawa Street Markets present: Holiday Night Market 2024 on Dec. 6 from 5 to 8 pm, at 1805 Gaspe Avenue. The event will feature a festive evening of togetherness, community - and shopping! Explore amazing vendors at this indoor night market. Get your holiday shopping done early - or grab a treat for yourself. Lots of free parking available on site. Bus route #7 - steps from bus stop. Bring the kids, your neighbours, friends and family. Enjoy a night out in Manor Park!

Featuring:

• Children's Holiday Market
• Cooking Decorating
• Visit from Santa and more!

For details, please visit www.facebook.com/ManorParkCommunityCouncil

 

Santa is coming to Overbrook - Dec. 7

Staff at the Overbrook Community Centre, in partnership with Ottawa Community Housing and the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre, are hosting a Christmas party on Dec. 7 from 11 am to 2 pm, at 33 Quill Street. Come take a free photo with Santa and enjoy free pizza, drinks, face painting, popcorn, music and more!

 

Overbrook outdoor rink volunteers needed

The Overbrook Community Association is seeking volunteers to help building and maintain the rink at the Overbrook Community Centre, 33 Quill. If you are interested in helping, please email [email protected].

Manor Park seeking outdoor rink volunteers

The Manor Park Community Council is looking to hire rink builders and attendants! Please send your resume and cover letter to [email protected] and apply today!

Creating Christmas Magic - Dec. 8

The Vanier Museopark, in partnership with the Conseil des écoles catholiques du Centre-Est (CECCE) and DeSerres, invites you to take part in its “CREATING CHRISTMAS MAGIC” event and spread the joy!

• When: Sunday, December 8, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Where: Richelieu-Vanier Community Centre and Vanier Sugar Shack (300 des Pères-Blancs Ave.)
• Admission: donation of any kind (toys, gift cards, money)

Kids and adults alike will enjoy our wrapping and crafting stations, listen to festive Holiday music and indulge in a delicious coffee and hot chocolate from Starbucks. Kids will also be able to take a picture with Santa at the Vanier Sugar Shack, which will be transformed into a giant gingerbread house for the event. For details, please visit museoparc.ca/activities-and-events/christmas-magic

 

Holiday Lights & Season's Delights in Rockcliffe Park - Dec. 11

The Rockcliffe Park Residents Association is hosting a Holiday Lights & Season's Delights event on Dec. 11, from 5 to 7 pm at the Rockcliffe Park Community Hall, 380 Springfield Road. Admission is free. Please consider bringing a cash donation for the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre's Food Bank. 

 

Rockcliffe Park Annual Appeal

In May 2024, the Government of Canada awarded Rockcliffe Park the National Historic Site of Canada designation. This honour was made possible by residents who have supported this community with their efforts and contributions. Please join the Rockcliffe Park Foundation, a registered charitable organization, in supporting their community Annual Appeal - your contributions make all the difference. Last year, funds raised went to:

• Environmental Protection: Water testing at the Pond and tree planting initiatives in the village.
• Enhanced Shared Spaces: Maintenance of Jubilee Garden and the Rockcliffe Park Public School sports field.
• Community Events: Rockcliffe's award-winning Heritage Walk and Speakers Program.

This year, donations also support the renewal of the Centennial Garden – the garden at the heart of the green space called the Village Green at Springfield and Mariposa. Donations can be made at rockcliffeparkfoundation.org/donate.

 

Vanier BIA presents Holiday Akoustik - Dec. 18

The Vanier BIA presents Holiday Akoustik at the St. Charles Market on Dec. 18 from 6 to 8 pm. Join the BIA for a magical night of holiday songs. Non-perishable food and cash donations will be collected for the Partage Vanier Food Bank. Everyone welcome.

 

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City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities 

Winter Maintenance Reporting

To help you prepare for the winter months, there are several ways you can connect with the City to report winter-related maintenance requests and accessibility concerns.   

Online: Non-urgent requests, such as those that can wait for the next business day, may be reported on ottawa.ca:  

• Winter road maintenance 
• Winter sidewalk maintenance  
• Gravel Shoulder  
• Area Between Road and Sidewalk (Easement)  

Phone : No access to the web or need to report a concern that requires immediate attention? Please call 3-1-1 or TTY 613-580-2401. 

Canada Video Relay Services (VRS): The City of Ottawa is pleased to provide the Canada Video Relay Service (VRS) for people wishing to contact the City. Callers using VRS are connected with a sign language interpreter who provides real time interpretation for telephone calls. To reach the City of Ottawa through VRS, please dial 613-580-2400. 

Winter Updates: To stay up to date on City of Ottawa Winter Operations, please visit ottawa.ca/winter.

 

Getting help clearing snow

Need help clearing your driveway and/or walkway during the winter?

• 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.

For information on City’s Snow Go and Snow Go Assist Programs visit Help around the home on Ottawa.ca.

 

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.

 

O-Train Line 1 full closure - Dec. 1

Stations: Bayview, Blair, Cyrville, Hurdman, Lees, Lyon, Parlement, Parliament , Pimisi, Rideau, St-Laurent, Tremblay, Tunney’s Pasture, uOttawa. On Sunday, December 1, from 8 am until 12:30 pm, O-Train Line 1 will be fully closed between Blair and Tunney’s Pasture stations for planned maintenance. For details, please visit octranspo.com.

 

The final phase of the three-item garbage limit starts Dec. 2

Starting Monday, December 2, any garbage above the three-item limit not in a City of Ottawa yellow bag will be left at the curb. Reduce waste by donating, recycling, composting or repairing items. Blue, black and green bins have no limit. For details, please visit ottawa.ca.

 

Fabric of Change Event - Dec. 2

Fabric of Change is an event hosted by OCTEVAW and Counselling Family Services as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. This drop-in session is part of a campaign to raise awareness about femicide and encourage community engagement in addressing gender-based violence (GBV).

Date: Monday, December 2
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Drop in anytime)
Location: 310 Olmstead Street

During the event, participants will contribute to a quilt-making project, which will be displayed as a public art installation. This quilt will highlight the voices of survivors and bring attention to the urgent need for action on femicide and GBV. The session will also provide a space for community healing, connection, and advocacy. Refreshments will be served, and the event is open to all Ottawa residents. To participate, please register here: Eventbrite Link.

Ottawa resident appeal to attend Global Peace Summit

Ottawa resident Olantu Nini is a 16-year-old high school student who has been selected as a UN Global Peace Ambassador to attend the Global Peace Summit in Bangkok, Thailand in 2025. This opportunity will allow her to represent Canada, connect with youth leaders from around the world and advocate for issues such as human rights, education and peace-building. She is raising funds to help cover her travel expenses. For details and to donate, please visit gofundme.com. 

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.

 

Celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities - Dec. 3

Join the City of Ottawa on Tuesday, December 3 from 8:30 to 9 am at City Hall to celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities with the raising of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities flag, for the first time in Ottawa. Please register for the ceremony by Monday, December 2 at 4 pm. For details, please visit ottawa.ca.

Newcomer Reception Centres - Public Information Session - Dec. 4

A City-sponsored public information session has been scheduled for December 4 from 6 to 7:30 pm. The session will take place at the Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Ave., in Halls A&B, which is accessible through Entrance 3 at the rear of the building. This is an accessible venue, with plenty of parking onsite. The public information session will provide information about the refugee claimant and settlement process, the services that will be provided to newcomers at the new centres, the benefit to the city in having these centres, the process for site selection, and details about the structures and the timeline and process for constructing them. There will be an opportunity to visit with subject experts, ask questions, and have conversations. This meeting will feature the participation of program staff from the City, with representatives from Stantec Consulting Firm and Refugee 613. 

Learn more about the newcomer reception centres, visit: ottawa.ca. Share your feedback at Engage Ottawa.

Last chance to have your say on special event regulations - Dec. 6

We need your input as we wrap up our review of the by-laws regulating special events on City streets and private and public property. Participate in the online survey to have your say. The survey closes Dec. 6. For details, please visit ottawa.ca.

Mayor's Christmas Celebration - Dec. 7

Mayor Mark Sutcliffe will host the Mayor’s 22nd Annual Christmas Celebration at Ottawa City Hall in support of the Ottawa Food Bank Dec. 7 from 3 to 6 pm at Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West. Admission is by donation to the Ottawa Food Bank. Celebrate the festive season in the fresh outdoors and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus who will arrive from the North Pole and be housed in their very own outdoor cabin. Roast marshmallows around a campfire, enjoy hot chocolate, taffy on snow, horse-drawn wagon rides. Bring your skates! The Rink of Dreams opens (weather permitting) for the skating season on Saturday, December 7. Don’t miss the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Marion Dewar Plaza at 5 pm. You can indulge in delicious BeaverTails for only $2, with all proceeds raised going directly to the Ottawa Food Bank! Purchase your Christmas tree, wreath or potted tree at the event, with $5 from the sale of each item donated to the Ottawa Food Bank. The fun continues inside with live entertainment in Jean Pigott Place. Full details can be found on the event webpage.

Monthly Information Session for Better Homes Ottawa Loan Program - Dec. 12

Thursday, December 12 at 12 pm

Virtual Session - Zoom

Join City of Ottawa staff to learn about the Better Homes Ottawa Loan Program. City staff will be holding monthly lunchtime information sessions about the Better Homes Ottawa Loan Program. Learn how this program can support you in undertaking home improvement projects focused on saving energy, increasing comfort and making your property more climate resilient. You can register for the online information session here: betterhomesottawa.ca/December12-Virtual

 

OC Transpo/Loblaw Food Drive - Dec. 14

OC Transpo is holding its 40th annual OC Transpo/Loblaw Holiday Food Drive on Saturday, December 14. Drop off your non-perishable food donations from 10 am to 5 pm at participating Loblaw, Real Canadian Superstore, Your Independent Grocer and No Frills stores across Ottawa. Interested in volunteering for this event? Click here. Interesting in making a monetary donation? Click here. For more information please visit ottawafoodbank.ca.

Ottawa Kwanzaa Celebration 2024 - Dec. 28

The Ottawa Kwanzaa 2024celebration will include a dynamic showcase of cultural dancers, drumming, singing, music, and authentic African and Caribbean cuisine - entertainment for the entire family. It offers an excellent opportunity to experience the sights, sounds and tastes of the Ottawa-Gatineau Black Community. Hosted by Jaku Konbit, the event takes place Dec. 28 from 4 to 10 pm at the Blu Legacy Convention Centre, 3750 North Bowesville Road. For tickets, please visit Eventbrite.

Youth Futures - Apply by Dec. 31

Youth Futures helps youth succeed in post-secondary education and the workforce. The program aims to create equal opportunities for youth facing marginalization and other barriers. Provided in French and English, at no cost to the participants, the program runs intensively from February to August every year. Are you between 16-21 years old, actively attending high school and interested in:

• Acquiring or improving your leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills
• Improving your post-secondary and employment outlook
• Building new skills
• Connecting more with your community and peers
• Removing barriers and successfully transitioning to post-secondary education

The deadline to apply for the 2025 Youth Futures program is Dec. 31. For details and to apply: youth-futures.com