October 18, 2024 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
I am writing to express my deep concern over the Ontario government's recent announcement of legislation that would require municipalities to obtain provincial approval before installing new bike lanes that reduce vehicle traffic lanes. This proposed legislation represents a troubling overreach into municipal affairs and undermines local decision-making processes. Here's why this matters to our community:
1. Infringement on Municipal Jurisdiction: Transportation planning, including the implementation of bike lanes, has long been under municipal purview. Local governments are best positioned to understand and address the unique needs of their communities.
2. Disregard for Local Expertise: Our City planners and engineers work closely with residents to develop comprehensive transportation strategies that balance various needs, including traffic flow, safety, and environmental concerns. The Province's blanket approach fails to recognize this nuanced, community-specific work.
3. Potential for Political Interference: By placing the final decision-making power in the hands of the provincial minister rather than municipal experts, this legislation opens the door for politically motivated decisions that may not align with local interests or evidence-based planning.
4. Undermining Climate and Health Initiatives: Many municipalities, including ours, have adopted strategies to promote active transportation and reduce carbon emissions. This legislation could significantly hinder these important initiatives.
5. Questionable Data Usage: The Province's statements suggest a misunderstanding or misrepresentation of how municipalities collect and analyze data on bike lane usage and impact.
6. Lack of Consultation and Evidence: It's particularly concerning that the Province did not consult with municipalities regarding bicycle lanes or consider any evidence in its decision-making process. This unilateral approach ignores the wealth of local knowledge and data that cities possess.
Instead of micromanaging municipal affairs, the province should focus on areas within its jurisdiction that could genuinely improve transportation across Ontario. This includes expediting the completion of major transit projects and supporting municipalities with funding for infrastructure improvements. I urge all residents to voice their concerns about this proposed legislation to our local MPP. We must stand together to protect our City's ability to make informed, locally-appropriate decisions about our transportation network.
Your voice matters in this crucial debate about local governance and sustainable urban planning.
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At this week's City Council meeting, I voted in favour of a motion backing the Ontario Big City Mayor's "Solve the Crisis" campaign. This initiative seeks urgent action from our provincial and federal governments to address the growing crisis of homelessness, mental health, and addiction in our communities.
The scale of this crisis is staggering. Over 234,000 Ontarians are experiencing homelessness, with more than 1,400 homeless encampments existing across Ontario. In 2023 alone, our province saw 3,432 drug-related deaths. These aren't just statistics: they represent real people in our community who are suffering and need our help.
The motion, moved by Councillor Stéphanie Plante and seconded by Councillor Ariel Troster, outlines several key requests. It calls for immediate action from both senior levels of governments, and asks the province to officially recognize homelessness as a health priority. The motion also requests the appointment of a responsible Minister to serve as a single point of contact, and the creation of a provincial task force to develop a "made-in-Ontario" action plan. Crucially, the motion asks for the provision of adequate, sustainable funding for municipalities to support those affected by this crisis.
While Ottawa has been working hard with community partners to address these issues, it's clear that we cannot solve this crisis alone. We need a coordinated, well-funded approach that recognizes the complexity of these interconnected problems.
By Council unanimously supporting this motion, we're advocating for a fundamental shift in how we approach homelessness, mental health, and addiction. We're calling for sustainable funding, coordinated leadership, and recognition that these are primarily health issues requiring provincial jurisdiction and resources.
I encourage all residents to visit www.SolveTheCrisis.ca to show your support and add your voice to this crucial call for action. Together, we can make a difference and work towards solving this crisis affecting our community.
Your Councillor in the Community
Thank you to the Lindenlea Community Association for inviting me to provide remarks during association's annual general meeting last night, Oct. 17.
Appreciated the opportunity to provide remarks during the Rockcliffe Park Residents Association's Volunteer Appreciation event on Oct. 16. At the invitation of the association, I was pleased, on behalf of Ottawa City Council and Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, to provide a certificate of recognition to Jane Dobell to honour her lifetime of public service.
Attended the launch event for a reusable container pilot project as Deputy Mayor with Council colleagues Ariel Troster and Shawn Menard. The project, created by the Circular Innovation Council, will eliminate unnecessary single-use packaging waste that ends up in our landfill.
It was an honour and a privilege to meet His Excellency Andreas Rendl, the new Ambassador of Austria to Canada, this week at Ottawa City Hall.
It is always heartwarming to join many volunteers to serve meals at the Ottawa Mission during Thanksgiving weekend.
Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities
Market in New Edinburgh Park - every Saturday until Oct. 26
Ottawa Family Cinema presents The Garfield Movie in 3D - Oct. 19
Overbrook Clean Up the Capital Event - Oct. 19
Overbrook residents are invited to take part in the Overbrook Community Association's Clean Up the Capital event. Equipment will be provided. Meet at the Overbrook Community Centre, located at 33 Quill Street, on Oct. 19 at 10 am. The clean-up initiative will be from 10 am to 12 pm.
National Military Cemetery Clean-Up - Oct. 20
The National Military Cemetery Clean-Up 2024 will take place on October 20, 2024. This day of service and community is a wonderful opportunity for serving members of the military, veterans, family members, and the broader community to come together to clean and care for the headstones at the National Military Cemetery.
Details of the event are as follows:
- Where: National Military Cemetery
- When: October 20, 2024
- Time: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Who: Open to everyone who wishes to show their support for CAF Members, Veterans, and their families
- Dress: Relaxed attire
This meaningful activity is a chance to honour those who have served and sacrificed by maintaining the dignity and honor of their final resting places. As participants clean the headstones, they’ll also have a moment to reflect on the legacy and bravery of the individuals commemorated here. To get a sense of the significance of this event and the impact of previous clean-up efforts, please watch this short video: National Military Cemetery Clean-Up Video. Those interested can register here: landing.beechwoodottawa.ca/nmc-cemetery-clean-up. This event is co-hosted by the Beechwood Cemetery Foundation and the National Military Cemetery, and volunteer hour credits can be provided to all those in attendance.
Pole Replacement and Power Outage - Donald Street and Beaudry Street - Oct. 21
On October 21, 2024, Hydro Ottawa will be performing pole replacement work that will impact customers located on Donald Street and Beaudry Street. To undertake this work safely, a planned power interruption will be required. Residents may notice increased construction presence throughout the day. Traffic control and lane reductions will be implemented to ensure that roads and sidewalks remain safe for residents and staff. Construction activities will occur on the City of Ottawa Road Right-of-Way allowance. A planned power outage is scheduled in order to complete the work safely.
Impacted Street: Donald Street and Beaudry Street
Parking restrictions - Provender Avenue - Oct. 21 to Nov. 22
Starting the week of October 21, 2024, Hydro Ottawa is conducting maintenance hole upgrades on Provender Avenue. This project has an estimated completion date of November 22, 2024. Overall, this work will include:
- electrical infrastructure upgrades;
- lane reductions; and
- sidewalk closures at site.
There are no scheduled power outages associated with this work at this time. Residents may notice increased construction presence throughout the project, including construction vehicles.
Impacted street: Provender AvenueThis work will result in street parking restrictions from 40 to 78 Provender Avenue. Parking and construction signage will be in place starting Oct. 18.
Citywide Equity Budget Consultation - Oct. 21
Residents from Ottawa's Black, Indigenous and racialized communities are invited to join me, Councillor Rawlson King, Council Liaison for Anti-Racism and Enthocultural Relations Initiatives, for an Equity Budget Consultation on the City's Draft 2025 Budget. The session will take place on Zoom and in person at the St. Laurent Complex, 525 Coté Street, in the Claude B. Aubry Room on Oct. 21 from 6 to 8 pm. Everyone welcome. Those interested in attending either virtually or in person are invited to fill out a survey in advance: 2025 Equity Budget Consult Registration. Please register to receive the virtual meeting link by visiting Equity Budget Consult Zoom or scan the QR code in the poster.
Para Transpo Talk Events in and near Ward 13 - Oct. 21 to 24
Para Transpo Talk is a series of customer engagement events that are open to all Para Transpo customers. These events will take place approximately every two months. There is no application needed, and everyone is welcome. Staff will be meeting with and listening to customers across Ottawa at our first Para Transpo Talk event! Drop by October 21 to 24 at any of the locations and times listed below. Staff will be present to answer questions and address concerns. Staff will also be bringing along the new 6-metre minibus for you to check out in person!
Monday, October 21- 9 am – 10:30 am: Loeb Recreation Centre, 161 Donald Street
- 10:45 am – 12:15 pm: Ottawa Foyers Partage,
- 764 Belfast Road 1 pm – 2:30 pm: Blair Station (Stop F)
Tuesday, October 22
- 12:45 pm – 2:15 pm: Partners in Parenting, 2405 St. Laurent Boulevard
- 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm: St-Laurent Station (Stop E)
Thursday, October 24
- 3 pm – 5 pm: Ottawa City Hall (Lisgar St. entrance), 110 Laurier Avenue West
As the weather gets colder, staff will be hosting these events online. In the spring, events will be back in person. Check the website for more information on upcoming Para Transpo Talk events and the upcoming schedule.
Design Thinking Workshop - Oct. 23
Harvest Fest celebration - Oct. 23
Join the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre for their Harvest Fest celebration on Oct. 23 from 4 to 6 pm at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard, in the Social Harvest Garden. RSVP by emailing [email protected] or call 613-745-0073 ext. 151. There will be live music, a BBQ and festive food, pumpkin decorating and garden tours. Everyone welcome.
Seniors’ Information Fair - Oct. 23
The Gloucester 50+ Centre hosts a Seniors' Information Fair October 23, 2024, from 9 am to 1 pm. The Fair is a fantastic opportunity to connect with local experts, learn valuable insights, and engage with vendors on topics that matter to seniors and their families. This event will include a Speaker Series featuring key discussions on important topics such as estate planning, fraud prevention, funeral preparations, and downsizing. The schedule for the Speaker Series is as follows:
- 10 - 10:45 am: Nicolas Gautier, Lawyer - “The road less complicated: estate planning for an easy transition”
- 11 - 11:30 am: Constable Mac Leroux, Ottawa Police - “Busting Fraud”
- 11:30 am - 12 pm: Funeral Director - “Goodbye Prepared: Making sense of funeral planning”
- 12:05 - 12:30 pm: Sue Liko, Moving Forward Matters - “Debunking Downsizing”
Plus, the first 100 guests will enjoy a Complimentary Coffee and a Free Hot Dog Lunch! The event takes place at 4355 Halmont Drive. For details, please visit www.gloucester50pluscentre.ca.
Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward Budget Consultation - Oct. 24
Residents from Rideau-Rockcliffe Ward 13 are invited to join me, Councillor Rawlson King, for a virtual consultation session on the City's Draft 2025 Budget on Oct. 24 at 6:30 pm. Please register to receive the virtual meeting link: Ward 13 Budget Consult 2025
Community Coffee Days are back - Oct. 25 and Nov. 29
The Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre and Incubator 13 have restarted Community Coffee Days. Upcoming dates are Oct. 25 and Nov. 29. Drop by The Rideau Community Hub at 815 St. Laurent Boulevard from 2 to 3 pm in Room 124.
Rockcliffe Park Public School Book Fair - Oct. 25, 26 and 27
Come browse an enormous selection of adult and children’s books from trending titles to forgotten gems, DVDs, CDs and vinyl. We’ve even got puzzles and games. There’s something for everyone! Make time to stop by the Book Fair Café on your way out. You’ll also find a bake sale featuring classic favorites and international delicacies. Visit once or visit often – shelves will be restocked daily while supplies last. The Book Fair takes place Oct. 25 from 10 am to 9 pm, Oct. 26 from 10 am to 6 pm and Oct. 27 from 10 am to 4 pm at Rockcliffe Park Public School in the Queen Juliana Hall, 360 Springfield Road. For more information, please visit rockcliffeparkbookfair.com.
Halloween at the Hub - Oct. 26
Join the Vanier BIA for their free family Halloween event featuring pumpkin carving, music, candy and games at the Vanier Hub, 271 Marier Avenue, on October 26 from 4 to 6 pm.
Halloween in the Forest - Oct. 27
The Vanier Museopark, in collaboration with the Vanier Optimist Club, invites kids and grown-ups to take a stroll in the Richelieu Park forest to celebrate Halloween. Little monsters can take part in several activities and collect treats along the way. A volunteer from the Lire et faire lire program will also read stories around the campfire!
- When: Sunday, October 27, from 11 am to 1 pm (or until we run out of stock)
- Where: Richelieu Park forest (300 des Pères-Blancs Ave.)*
- Cost: Free activity, no registration needed
Don’t forget to wear a costume for the occasion! For more information, please visit museoparc.ca.
Road Closure - Mutual Street - Oct. 28 to Nov. 3
The City has received a request for the closure of Mutual Street, between May Street and Église Street, Oct. 28 to Nov. 3 to accommodate excavation, backfilling and service installation at 470 Mutual. The work will include cutting, removal and instatement of asphalt at 470 Mutual. A signed detour will be in effect. Please watch for traffic-related signs. Access to adjacent dwellings and businesses will be maintained at all times. Impacted residents will receive advance notification.
Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition Career Fair - Oct. 28
The Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition Career Fair takes place Oct. 28 from 11 am to 5 pm at the Ottawa Convention and Events Centre at 200 Coventry Road. Indigenous and non-Indigenous job seekers are welcome. For details, please visit ottawaaboriginalcoalition.ca/career-fair-2024.
St. Laurent Library Branch programming in October
- English Book Club: Oct. 31 from 10 to 12 pm. Featuring A Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel
- English conversation group: Thursdays from 6:30 to 8 pm
- Groupe de conversation en français: les mardis 18h30 - 20h
- Knitting and Crochet Club: Tuesdays from 1 to 3 pm
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Free Movie Nights
- Oct. 30 at 6:30 pm featuring The Wedding Planner
- Le 26 octobre à 14h La cage dorée
- Let's Talk Tech. Need help with technology? A team member will help answer your questions. Drop in Wednesdays until Dec. 18 between 2:30 and 3:30 pm
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Children's Programs - Drop ins
- Family Storytime in English: Mondays - Oct. 21 and 28 at 10:30 am
- Babytime: Tuesday, Oct. 22 at 10:30 am
- Contes en famille en français: à 10h30, le 23 octobre
- Homework Club: Wednesdays at 5 pm for 6-12 year olds
For more program information, please visit biblioottawalibrary.ca/en.
Overbrook Haunted House - Oct. 31
The Overbrook Community Centre presents an Overbrook Haunted House Halloween Safe Zone. Adults and teens can explore a creepy dollhouse haunted house. Ottawa Community Housing presents a preschool zone featuring a candy maze, face-painting, crafts, piñata, a movie and popcorn. The Halloween fun takes place Halloween night, Oct. 31 from 5 to 9 am at the Overbrook Community Centre, 33 Quill Street. Admission is free!
Oakhill, Corona and Carsdale Integrated Renewal Update - Road closures extended until the end of October
Project update: All construction work will be completed by the end of October including landscaping and asphalt paving. The roads will reopen before the end of this month.
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!
Development Application - 304-308 Donald Street - Comments due by Nov. 1
The City of Ottawa has received Zoning By-law Amendment and Site Plan Control applications for 304-308 Donald Street in the Overbrook community. The site is located on the southeast corner of the Donald Street and Edith Avenue intersection. The applicant is proposing to develop a three-storey, 31-unit low-rise apartment. Ten vehicular parking spaces, including eight spaces for residents and two visitor parking spaces, and 31 bicycle parking spaces are proposed. A Minor Zoning By-Law Amendment Application is required in order for this project to proceed. Site-specific exceptions to the R4UC Zone of the Subject Site are necessary to provide relief from zoning provisions to; reduce the required number of parking spaces for residents, increase the maximum allowed lot area, and reduce the minimum required corner side yard setback. A detailed Site Plan Control Application is required to facilitate the development on the Subject Site. The proposed development will require the demolition of the existing buildings, modifications to side grading, drainage and landscaping. To review the development applications, please visit the City's DevApps website:
Comments can be submitted by Nov. 1 to the City's file lead, Margot Linker, via the DevApps website at this link.
Comedy at the Fieldhouse - Nov. 2
St. Bart's Bazaar - Nov 2
Please mark your calendars! The St, Bart's Bazaar is coming up on Saturday, November 2, from 12 - 4 pm at 125 MacKay Street. This year we have our usual variety of great items- antiques, gifts, jewelry, books, preserves, baking, attic treasures, toys & games, crafts & knitting, Christmas decorations, works of art and our famous Tea Room with home made sandwiches! Please join us at this well-loved event and find gifts for all the family and yourself as well! Questions? Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have things to donate: Linda Assad Butcher at (613) 298-9980 and Liz Heatherington at (613) 745-4677. Your bazaar supports the parish and its outreach initiatives. Last year we supported Belong Ottawa (Centre 454, The Well/La Source), Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund, the Rideau Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre and St. Margaret’s Church in Vanier. For more information, please visit saintbartholomew.ca.
Old Railway Rideau River Pedestrian Bridge Environmental Assessment Study - virtual consultation session - Nov. 6
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.
UPDATE: A virtual public consultation session is planned for Nov. 6 from 6 to 8 pm. Zoom registration details are now available on the City's project website at ottawa.ca/rideauriverbridge. Please register to receive the virtual meeting link if you wish to participate. Presnetation material will be posted on the City's website one day before the meeting. Please provide your comments to the City's project manager, Kosta Karadakis, by emailing [email protected] before November 20, 2024.
47 Beechwood Community Consultation - Nov. 12
Residents, business owners and community stakeholders are invited to join me, Councillor Rawlson King, for a community consultation regarding the proposed development for 47 Beechwood Avenue on Nov. 12 at 6:30 pm on Zoom. To register for the meeting link, please click here.
The City has received a zoning amendment application and a site plan control application for 47 Beechwood Avenue (including 12 Douglas Avenue and 5 Springfield Road) located on the north side of Beechwood between Douglas Avenue and Springfield Road in the Lindenlea community. The applicant is proposing to develop an eight-storey, mixed-use building with four commercial at-grade units, 123 residential units, 48 underground parking spaces, 128 bicycle parking spaces and 880 square metres of amenity space (which refers to community rooms, dog wash rooms, a communal terrace and private balconies at the property). The two applications have been posted to the City’s development applications website. The document links are below:
- Site plan control application: devapps.ottawa.ca/en/applications/D07-12-23-0084/details
- Minor zoning bylaw amendment application: devapps.ottawa.ca/en/applications/D02-02-23-0052/details
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 before 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.
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
Planned O-Train Line 1 maintenance - Oct. 19 - Nov. 3
On specific days between Saturday, October 19 and Sunday, November 3, O-Train Line 1 service will be impacted by planned maintenance. R1 Replacement bus service will run during impacts.
- October 19 and 20: Line 1 closed between Blair and uOttawa stations all day.
- October 22, 23, 29, and 30: From 11 pm, Line 1 closed between Blair and uOttawa stations.
- October 26 and 27 and November 1 and 2: Full O-Train Line 1 closed all day.
For more details, please visit octranspo.com.
OC Transpo - New Ways to Bus
You may have noticed changes to signs or maps at bus stops. This change is to prepare for the launch of our New Ways to Bus network. With thousands of bus stops requiring changes, we need to begin updating this information early so it’s ready in time for the launch of the new bus network. Signs and maps for the new bus network will be covered or have stickers and notices to indicate that they aren’t in effect yet. Covered signs will be unveiled right before the new network comes into effect.
OC Transpo's new bus network will focus on frequency, local service in your neighbourhood, and connections to key destinations. New Ways to Bus includes more than 100 routes and is planned to launch as early as spring 2025, opening up new convenient connections across the city. Every neighbourhood and most customers will see changes to their trip. You will see a shift from downtown-focused bus routes to routes that improve connections to community hubs and key destinations. Some customers may have to go further to the bus stop, have additional transfers to buses or trains, and/or have faster travel times. In addition to fewer Connexion routes, some routes will be retired due to low ridership and to improve connections to new routes and the O-Train. Retired routes will be replaced with alternative service nearby. Several routes will be shortened, extended, or adjusted, and some routes will be removed. Routes that have been shortened or removed may be replaced by another route. Routes that will be extended may replace removed routes or the removed portion of another route. A few routes will be renumbered, either with the exact same routing remaining in place, or with minor adjustments. Additionally, some entirely new bus routes will be introduced.
For more information, please visit www.octranspo.com/en/plan-your-trip/service-changes/new-ways-to-bus
New addition to OPL's children’s collection: Read and listen with Read-along books
What better time than Library Month to make available a new exciting addition to Ottawa Public Library’s children’s collection? Children aged 4 to 12 can now benefit from the multiple advantages of the Read-along collection which includes picture books, early reader books, non-fiction and chapter books. These books offer built-in audio features that can be charged with any micro-USB charger. By pressing the audio-player button, with or without headphones, parents and children can listen to the stories while flipping through the pages and looking at the images. Educators can use Read-along books to support the teaching of different sounds and words for early readers or as a support tool to teach English as a second language or English immersion. The Read-alongs are published only in English. Read-along books are available for browsing at the following OPL branches: Beaverbrook, Blackburn Hamlet, Carlingwood, Cumberland, Greely, Greenboro, Hazeldean, Manotick, Nepean Centrepointe, North Gower, Richmond, Rockcliffe Park, Rosemount, Ruth-E.-Dickinson, St-Laurent, and Sunnyside. However, OPL clients can make a hold request online and pick up the Read-along books at the branch of their choice. The OPL website includes the Library’s entire catalogue, online registration for a free OPL library card, information about the wide range of library services available, including more details about the Library Month “Joy of Reading” celebration.
Three local writers win 2024 Ottawa Book Awards
The 2024 edition of the Ottawa Book Awards has been written with three local authors winning the prestigious prize.
- Sandra Ridley - received the English fiction award for her collection of poems Vixen (Book*hug Press)
- Huda Mukbil - received the English non-fiction award for her work Agent of Change: My life Fighting Terrorists, Spies and Institutional Racism (McGill-Queens University Press)
- Sébastien Pierroz - received the French fiction award for his novel Deux heures avant la fin de l’été (Les Éditions David).
More information about the Ottawa Book Awards, including jury statements, and a full list of this year’s nominees is available at Ottawa Book Awards | City of Ottawa. The books of this year’s winners and nominees, as well as those of past years are available at Ottawa Public Library (OPL). An OPL card is free for everyone who lives in Ottawa.
Protect yourself: Get your flu vaccine
- Starting October 15, 2024: Participating local pharmacies will begin to offer flu vaccines to individuals at high risk of flu-related complications.
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Starting October 21, 2024: OPH Community Clinics and Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs will offer the flu vaccine for eligible high risk and priority populations who face barriers to access, including:
- Children aged 6 months to under 2 years and their household members (note: children 2 and older are directed to pharmacies for their annual flu vaccine).
- High-risk individuals facing significant barriers to access, such as newcomers without OHIP and children 2 to 5 years of age who have tried to access the vaccine through another provider.
- Starting October 28, 2024: all individuals 6 months of age and older who live, work, or go to school in Ontario are eligible for the flu vaccine through local pharmacies and healthcare providers. Updated COVID-19 vaccines will also be available for everyone.
As We Heard It Report Lansdowne 2.0
City staff conducted a Lansdowne Virtual Open House on September 10, 2024. There were approximately 120 participants. The format was a virtual event with a presentation displaying various topics for the Site Plan followed by a moderated question period. Various subject matter experts were in attendance to answer questions from the residents. The As We Heard It Report has now been published on Engage Ottawa. To read the report, please visit this link. Staff are finalizing the Site Plan application to be deemed complete by the City. Once the application is deemed complete, the application and its supporting studies and plans will be posted to DevApps. The application will undergo technical circulation during Official Review, including a final comment period. The Lansdowne 2.0 Event Centre Site Plan was listed on the agenda at the Urban Design Review Panel on October 4. The Site Plan application for the north side stands is being drafted and will be submitted to the City later this year. Stay tuned for further details on engagement. For any further questions, you can connect with [email protected].
Trial Running Starting for O-Train Lines 2 and 4 - Daily Reports now available
Ottawa Public Health recommends updated COVID-19 vaccine this fall
- Adults 65 years of age or older
- Residents of long-term care homes and other congregate living settings (e.g., chronic care facilities, retirement homes)
- Individuals who have underlying medical conditions that place them at higher risk of severe COVID-19, including children with complex health needs
- Pregnant individuals
- Individuals from First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities
- Members of racialized and other equity-deserving communities
Effective October 28, 2024, the updated COVID-19 vaccines will be available for all residents aged 6 months and older. For details, please visit ottawa.ca.
Report Illegal Dumping
It is now even easier to report illegal dumping thanks to a new online reporting tool at ottawa.ca/311. You can also continue to report illegal dumping by calling 3-1-1. For more information, please visit ottawa.ca.
Climate Resiliency Strategy - Survey now open
The draft climate resiliency strategy, Climate Ready Ottawa, is now available for public consultation. Have your say on the draft strategy by completing the survey. Climate Ready Ottawa identifies actions to address the top risks facing Ottawa and prepare for a much warmer, wetter and unpredictable climate. Climate Ready Ottawa builds on the Climate Projections and Climate Vulnerability and Risk Assessment. It has been created collaboratively with all City departments and with input from the community. The summary of Climate Ready Ottawa provides an overview of the visions, principles and framework for the strategy. Climate Ready Ottawa is a long-term strategy that will guide action and investment that transition Ottawa to a resilient city by 2050. Once input has been provided on the long-term strategy, a short-term implementation plan that prioritizes specific actions will be developed. Although the City has many initiatives underway, Climate Ready Ottawa identifies new policies, programs and actions to build Ottawa’s resiliency to a changing climate. Preparing for climate change will require everyone to take action. Climate Ready Ottawa identifies actions that support individuals, communities, businesses and organizations, as well as where more support is needed from other levels of government. The results of the survey will help to identify which actions the city should take first and make it easier for Ottawans to prepare for climate change. For more information, please visit Engage Ottawa.
Shaping the future of Ottawa Public Library service plans
Help shape Ottawa Public Library’s future. We're collecting stories to understand how the library and its services have made a difference in your life. We want to know what you love about the library and how the library could better serve you. Your stories, collected here and in branches across the city, will guide the development and evaluation of library services. You can find additional information about the library's service plans at the following link: engage.ottawa.ca/me-and-my-library What does Ottawa Public Library mean to you? Is it the friendly faces and support? The feeling of endless possibilities? The space to do what you need to get done? Whatever it is, the library wants to know. Share your original art, photos, stories, poems, videos, or whatever feels right. For more information, please visit biblioottawalibrary.ca.
Nominations are now open to honour Ottawa’s immigrant entrepreneurs before Oct. 21
New Zoning Bylaw Workshops - Oct. 22 & Nov. 5
This fall, join City staff for a series of in-person workshops to discuss Ottawa’s New Zoning By-Law. These workshops are designed to engage the community, gather valuable feedback, and ensure that our new Zoning By-law reflects the Official Plan and the needs and aspirations of all residents. Your participation is crucial in shaping the future of our city!
Here’s what you can expect:
- Display Board Exhibition – dive into the basics of zoning and key concepts of the proposed By-law. This is your chance to ask questions and get informed.
- Roundtable Discussions – engage in intensive discussions on various topics with planners and fellow residents.
Five opportunities to participate: All in-person workshops will start at 6:30 pm
- October 22 – City Hall
- November 5 – Confederation Education Centre
For more information about the in-person workshops, visit: engage.ottawa.ca/zoning
The City has created a 3D interactive map for residents to visualize the existing zoning and be able to compare in a real-world environment in relation to the New Zoning By-law 2008-250. The 3D map is fully immersive; you can visualize the new proposed zoning starting from a bird’s eye view, then you can pan, zoom, rotate, and tilt to visualize the zoning from a street perspective in your neighborhood surrounded by the built environment in 3D. To view the map, please visit ottawa.ca.
RBC 21 under 21 Youth Awards Gala - Oct. 24
For over two decades, Youth Ottawa has celebrated youth empowerment, recognizing the incredible contributions of young people within our community. Debuting this year, the 21 Under 21 Awards Gala presented by RBC, continues this proud tradition, shining a spotlight on youth, ages 14-21, who have demonstrated remarkable initiative, enthusiasm, and leadership in their local or global communities. They are excited to introduce this year’s recipients—21 inspiring young trailblazers from across the city who have gone above and beyond to make a positive impact. Whether through community involvement, educational pursuits, or entrepreneurship, these youth truly have the “WOW” factor and are making a powerful difference. You’re invited to the celebration! Join us in recognizing our nominees at the Awards Gala on October 24 from 5:30-9:30 pm at the Shaw Centre. For tickets, please visit Eventbrite.ca.
Ottawa Heritage Funding Program - Application deadline is Oct. 30
The City of Ottawa's Heritage Funding Program supports projects undertaken by individuals or organizations that promote or support:
- local heritage through education, awareness and appreciation
- research or documentation of local history
- preservation of local heritage assets
- the reclamation, retention, transmittal, development and revitalization of Anishinabe Algonquin Nation, First Nations, Inuit and Métis heritage and culture
The City of Ottawa is accepting applications for the 2025 Heritage Funding Program. This funding is a great opportunity for Heritage Professionals both Emerging and Experienced to pursue their passion projects! This program offers support for projects that, Promote or support local heritage through education, preserve local heritage assets, Reclaim, retain, transmit, develop and revitalize Anishinabe Algonquin Nation, First Nations, Inuit and Métis heritage and culture. The Cultural Funding Support Unit also offers bilingual virtual drop-in sessions via Microsoft Teams every Thursday from 12 to 1 pm to answer questions and provide guidance. For details and to apply before the Oct. 30 deadline, please visit ottawa.ca.
Are you, your organization or group looking to commemorate the legacy of a person who contributed or made an impact to our community? The City has launched its revamped Commemorative Naming Program with the start of its first nomination period, which is open now. The online submission form is now available at ottawa.ca/namingottawa. The deadline is Tuesday, November 12. For more information, please visit 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].
Emergency Services News
Purchase your tickets for the 13th Annual Ottawa Police Service Gala to be held Nov. 2
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is pleased to announce that tickets for the 13th Annual Gala are now available to purchase online. The event, set for Saturday, November 2 at the Shaw Centre, promises an unforgettable evening of dining, dancing, and community engagement. This year’s gala will benefit two important organizations that are making significant strides in our community: the Sexual Assault Support Center of Ottawa and the Multifaith Housing Initiative. The 2024 OPS Gala aims to raise essential funds to support these vital organizations. Tickets can be purchased online for $200 each, or $2,000 for a table that seats 10. You can purchase a corporate table for $2,000, where two seats will be donated to a uniformed OPS member.
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.