October 4, 2024 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
Dear Residents:
I want to update you on recent changes to Ottawa's anti-idling bylaw. As your representative, I've been a strong advocate for measures to improve our air quality and reduce our carbon footprint. The unnecessary idling of vehicles is a significant contributor to both air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in our city.
On Wednesday, Council voted to update our 17-year-old anti-idling bylaw. While I am pleased that we've made some progress, I must express my disappointment that the final version doesn't go as far as City staff recommended.
The good news is that the bylaw will now be enforceable year-round, closing a loophole that previously exempted very cold and hot days. This is a significant step forward, as it means the bylaw will now apply on many more days throughout the year.
However, I believe we missed an opportunity to take stronger action. The original staff recommendation was to limit idling to five consecutive minutes on days below 0°C or above 27°C. Council voted to extend this to 10 minutes, a change I opposed. I believe this weakens the effectiveness of the bylaw and doesn't align with the urgency of our climate crisis.
Additionally, Council decided to maintain the existing three-minute idling limit for the rest of the year, rather than reducing it to one minute as staff had proposed. Again, I believe this was a missed opportunity to further reduce unnecessary emissions.
While these changes are a step in the right direction, they fall short of what's needed to seriously address vehicle emissions in our City. The climate crisis demands bold action, and I will continue to advocate for stronger measures to reduce our environmental impact.
It's important to note that education will be a key component of implementing this bylaw. The goal isn't to issue a large number of tickets, but rather to change behavior and raise awareness about the impacts of unnecessary idling.
As your Councillor, I remain committed to pushing for policies that will make Ottawa a greener, more sustainable City. I encourage all residents to do their part by being mindful of vehicle idling and its impacts on our environment and air quality.
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I am also pleased to share news about the expansion of our City's light-rail transit system. On October 7, 2024, the City will begin the trial running phase for O-Train Lines 2 and 4, marking a significant milestone in the South Extension project.
Trial running is a crucial 21-day period designed to ensure that all train systems, maintenance procedures, and staff are ready to operate under real-life conditions. This phase is divided into two important segments:
- Simulated Passenger Service (14 days minimum): During this time, our maintainer must achieve a minimum 98.5% on-time performance over a 14-day rolling average. This rigorous standard ensures that trains depart terminus stations within 30 seconds of their scheduled times.
- Operational and Maintenance Scenario Evaluations (7 days): This segment tests OC Transpo's ability to respond effectively to various operational events, further refining system procedures and readiness.
The trial running phase is essential for several reasons:
- It prioritizes safety by identifying and addressing any concerns before public launch.
- It thoroughly tests equipment and infrastructure, including trains and signaling systems.
- It allows us to fine-tune operations, ensuring a reliable service for you, our valued passengers.
In terms of transparency and accountability, I'm pleased to inform you that daily performance reports will be available on octranspo.com, Monday through Friday. This commitment to transparency will allow Council and the public to follow the progress of the new rail lines as they prepare for public service.
While an official opening date for public service will depend on the successful completion of trial running and subsequent steps, I am optimistic about the progress we're making. This expansion represents a significant investment in our city's future, promising improved connectivity and sustainable transportation options for our community.
This Council is committed to keeping you informed every step of the way through the City’s Ottawa Light Rail Transit (LRT) Inquiry City Response and Action Plan.
The City has created and implemented the Action Plan to address the operational issues and derailments that occurred in 2021, and to respond to the Ottawa Light Rail Transit Public Inquiry. The Inquiry, led by Honourable Justice William Hourigan, resulted in 103 recommendations aimed at improving the LRT system and addressing broader infrastructure project concerns.
The City of Ottawa has made significant progress on these recommendations through its Action Plan which you can review here.
As of February 2024, 89 of the 95 recommendations under the City's jurisdiction have been completed or integrated into ongoing policies. The Action Plan involves multiple City departments and includes a focus on transparency, accountability and public interest.
The Action Plan also highlights the need for better alignment of priorities throughout the planning and implementation stages of complex infrastructure projects. An independent third-party review by Roland Berger Inc. found the action plan to be robust and relevant.
In order to enhance transparency, the City also established a Light Rail Sub-committee to provide oversight and focused attention on non-operational matters related to Ottawa’s light-rail systems, including all light-rail construction projects, as well as the City’s action plan in response to the Ottawa Light Rail Public Inquiry and other third-party reviews of the light-rail transit system. The Sub-committee meets in public, its agendas and meeting minutes are in the official record, and its reports rise to Council for approval.
The lessons learned from the launch of Line 1 have been carefully incorporated into this trial-running process. Thank you for your patience and support as we work towards enhancing and improving Ottawa's transit system.
Your Councillor in the Community
Enjoyed a special vernissage at the German Ambassadors’ Residence last week featuring the captivating works of the BEING Studio in Ottawa, which fosters artistic expression for adults with developmental disabilities. The art was inspired by 250 years of Casper David Friedrich paintings.
Had an amazing time at the “Rock the Block” event at the Manor Park Community Centre last week. Thank you to the Manor Park Community Council for organizing!
As Deputy Mayor I had an amazing time at Glebe Collegiate this week recognizing the youth who will participate in the 2025 Special Olympics Ontario School Championships, hosted by the Ottawa Police Service, which will take place in Ottawa from June 3-5.
The work of renowned Mi’kmaq artist Alan Syliboy was honoured during Day of German Unity celebrations at the German Ambassadors’ Residence in Rockcliffe Park which this year shined a light on the German Maritimes region.
Commemorated the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at the Beechwood Cemetery to recognize the multi-generational impact of the Indian residential school system in Canada.
Last week, I joined my colleagues Barrhaven East Councillor Wilson Lo, Orléans South-Navan Councillor Catherine Kitts and Stittsville Councillor Glen Gower for a discussion at City Hall with Carleton University Master of Journalism students regarding journalism and politics.
Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities
Market in New Edinburgh Park - every Saturday until Oct. 26
Fall Festivities at the St. Laurent Complex - Oct. 6
Get in the spirit of the season with fun fall festivities! Whether you’re looking for a frightful or delightful way to spend your October, the City's Recreation staff have activities for all ages and interests!
- Work on a special craft and get ready for Thanksgiving and Halloween with Pumpkin Patch workshops across the city, including
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Cozy and creepy crochet
- If you’re aged 16 and up, come learn to craft a pumpkin in our crocheting workshop on Sunday, October 6 from 1:30 to 3:30 pm at St. Laurent Complex.
Hydro Pole Replacement Project - Foxview Place - Starting Oct. 8
Starting on October 8, 2024, Hydro Ottawa will be replacing hydro poles and equipment on Foxview Place. We estimate that this project will be completed by December 6, 2024. We recognize that construction and power outages can be disruptive. Please be assured that the scheduling of this project has been reviewed and will move forward with our customer’s best interests in mind. Construction activities will take place on the City of Ottawa Road Right-of-Way - a legal right of access for Hydro Ottawa for the purpose of installing and maintaining its electrical distribution system. Overall, this work will include:
- electrical equipment infrastructure upgrades;
- lane reductions and sidewalk closures at site; and
- tree trimming where required.
Customers will receive a written notice delivered to their door advising them of these upgrades. As this project advances and planned power outages are required to complete the work safely, impacted customers will also receive notices advising them of any interruption to their power supply. Residents will notice increased construction presence including construction vehicles. Traffic control will be implemented throughout the project to ensure that roads and sidewalks remain safe for residents and staff. Our qualified staff and contractors will conduct this work safely and efficiently, ensuring that any inconvenience is minimal.
Impacted Street: Foxview Place
Overbrook Pollinator Garden Work Party - Oct. 10, 11 and 12
The Overbrook Community Association and Ecology Ottawa invite you to a Pollinator Garden Work Party at 1 Donald Street. Tools and work gloves will be provided. This is a great opportunity for volunteer hours. Everyone welcome. Please register by emailing [email protected]. There will be three sessions:
- Oct. 10, from 4 to 6 pm
- Oct. 11, from 4 to 6 pm, and
- Oct. 12, from 9 am to 12:30 pm
Development Application - 47 Beechwood - Comments due by Oct. 16
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
Community members are welcome to submit comments via the DevApps website by October 16.
Development Application - 304-308 Donald Street
The City of Ottawa has received Zoning By-law Amendment and Site Plan Control applications for 304-308 Donald Street. 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:
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]. We are 100 per cent powered by volunteers!
Vanier BIA Micro Grants
Do you have an idea for an event near or in your business to attract new customers? The Vanier BIA is here to help! You can receive up to $500 to hire an artist, host an event, or try something new! For more information, please visit vanierbia.com.
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.
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.
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 the 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 pumpkin carving and a costume contest at the Vanier Hub, 271 Marier Avenue, on October 26 from 4 to 6 pm.
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!
Old Railway Rideau River Pedestrian Bridge - virtual information 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 Information Session is planned for Nov. 6 from 6 to 8 pm. Zoom registration details will be posted on the City's project website at ottawa.ca.
Coventry Road Widening Planning and Environmental Assessment Study - Public Open House - this fall
The City of Ottawa has initiated an Environmental Assessment (EA) study to assess the need to widen and/or improve Coventry Road between Belfast Road and St-Laurent Boulevard. The EA study will investigate options to improve travel environment for all modes (walking, cycling, transit, autos and trucks) as appropriate. This study will:
- Analyze the need and justification for widening Coventry Road to four (4) lanes and by identifying existing and future travel demand;
- Evaluate alternative alignments and options including lane configuration, improved active transportation (pedestrian and cyclist) facilities and access to St-Laurent Transit Station;
- Assess potential impacts to the social, cultural, and natural environment and identify ways to mitigate impacts;
- Prepare a functional design including Class ‘C’ cost estimates and details for implementation; and
- Consult with the general public and stakeholders.
Study Process: The EA study will follow the planning and design process for a Schedule C project under the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment process, which is an approved process under the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act. An Environmental Study Report (ESR) will be prepared at the completion of the study and will be available for a 30-day public review and comment period.
Open Houses: Two Public Open Houses will be held as part of the study. The first open house will take place later this fall. My office will share the details once they are confirmed by City staff. Details will also be updated on the project webpage.
City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities
Planned O-Train Line 1 maintenance - Oct. 5
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O-Train Line 1 will be closed between Tunney’s Pasture and Blair stations (entire line) on:
- Saturday, October 5, for the entire service day
During the closures, R1 replacement bus service will run every 8 minutes along the entire line (Tunney’s Pasture to Blair). In addition to R1, a shuttle bus service will run every 15 minutes between St-Laurent and Cyrville stations and every 30 minutes between Lees Station and Mackenzie King Bridge. Regular service will return at the start of the service day on October 6. For details, please visit octranspo.com.
Trial Running Starting for O-Train Lines 2 and 4
Updated commemorative naming program launches with its first nomination period
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.
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.
The strategy is split into five main themes:
- Resilient communities
- Resilient buildings, transportation and water systems
- Natural environment and parklands
- Extreme weather preparedness and response
- Cross-cutting actions that deal with more than one of the themes above
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.
The leaves are changing colour and there’s a slight chill in the air, which means fall is finally here! Celebrate fall by participating in #iWalk Month (International Walk to School Month) and walk as many days as you can this October. If you can’t walk all the way, you can participate by parking away from the school and walking a block or two! International Walk to School (iWalk) Month is here! This #Walktober, see how many days you can walk, bike, or wheel to school. Walking and wheeling to school are great ways to get some physical and mental exercise! www.envirocentre.ca/school-active-transportation
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.
New Zoning Bylaw Workshops - Oct. 8 to 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 8 – John G Mlacak Community Centre
- October 15 – Fred Barrett Arena
- October 22 – City Hall
- November 5 – Confederation Education Centre
For more information about the in-person workshops, visit: engage.ottawa.ca/zoning
Bike Day on the Hill is returning for its 9th edition on October 8 from 5 to 8:30 pm on Parliament Hill in Ottawa! Join parliamentarians, local and national leaders, and fellow cyclists in a non-partisan celebration of everyday cycling in Canada. This year we will be highlighting the power and promise of e-bikes and cargo bikes. So come out, bring your bike, bring your family and join us in sending the positive message that cycling can be for everyone! Due to Hill security protocols, all attendees must register for this event by October 6.
- Capacity Building Project Funding: Capacity Building Projects are initiatives taken on by organizations to improve efficiency for the organization or build capacity within the sector. The focus can be on improving the organization structure, capacity, workflow, or partnerships.
- Programming Funding: Programming funding is allocated to organizations to offer a new program or expand an existing program. The program should address an emerging or ongoing need and respond to the identified priorities and goals as described in the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan. Organizations can apply once for the project funding category and once for the programming funding category. Funding will be allocated in a one or three-year contribution. For more information and to apply, please visit ottawa.ca, and select Project Funding.
Deadline for application: Thursday, October 31, 2024, at 5 pm
Maximum funding per agency: $75,000 per year for Capacity Building Project Funding and $75,000 per year for Programming Funding
Funding available: $1.4 million
Applicants are advised of the results: November 28, 2024
- English session: Wednesday, October 9, 2024, from 1:30 to 2:30 pm - Click here to register
- French session: Wednesday, October 9, 2024, from 3:00 to 4:00 pm - Cliquez ici pour participer
Agencies who are interested in having a discussion about their application with a Community Funding and Development Specialist or would like to request the material and the recording of the information sessions can contact [email protected]. For more information and to apply, please visit ottawa.ca.
Ottawa Climate-Economy Opportunities Summit - Oct. 9
On October 9 at Bayview Yards, the Ottawa Climate Action Fund is inviting you to be a part of something big. At the Ottawa Climate-Economy Opportunities Summit, we’re going to dig into two of the most significant challenges facing Ottawa today. And discover together how our businesses and our community can gain by solving them in tandem. Climate change is the crisis and the opportunity of our lifetimes, with impacts we’re already seeing in our everyday lives. Affordable housing is the crisis of the moment, a chance to innovate, collaborate, and do what it takes to leave no one behind. The event is Oct. 9 from 8 am to 5 pm, with an evening reception from 5 pm to 7 pm - all at Bayview Yards at 7 Bayview Station Road. For tickets and details please visit this link.
Art of Support Gala - Oct. 10
Pleo’s Art of Support Gala, a special evening of art, music, food, and community in recognition of World Mental Health Day, takes place Oct. 10 from 6 to 9 pm at the Ottawa Art Gallery, 50 Mackenzie King Bridge. This inaugural event will feature live painting by artist Allan André, a curated art auction, and music by Maeven Climie, hosted by Event Emcee Jock Climie. Proceeds from the event will support the work Pleo does with parents and caregivers who have children, youth and young adults who are facing mental health and substance use challenges. For details and tickets, please visit www.supportpleo.ca.
Apply to join Ottawa's new Nightlife Council - Applications due by Oct. 11
If you participate in Ottawa’s nightlife economy, there may be a seat for you on the first-ever Ottawa Nightlife Council. Applications are now being accepted for membership on the Ottawa Nightlife Council. The application form can be found on ottawa.ca until October 11. For details, please visit ottawa.ca.
The Black History in the Streets Tour is still going strong. Join Black History Ottawa on Saturdays from now until October 2024 for a deep dive into the histories of Black Canadians in our great capital city. Given that the last two tours of the season take place on October 12, make sure you reserve your seat as soon as possible by registering at www.blackhistoryottawa.org. Tickets: blackhistoryottawa.org
Accessibility Advisory Committee Updates - Oct. 15
The Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) provides advice to Council and consults on projects required under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (2005) and many more, where the City benefits from an accessibility lens. The Committee meets at least eight times per year, with additional special meetings as required. In addition to their meetings, the group provides feedback by email, and many members participate in working groups or other sub-committees. Next Meeting: Tuesday, October 15 at 6 pm Members of the public are encouraged to attend AAC meetings online via Zoom.
Nominations are now open to honour Ottawa’s immigrant entrepreneurs before Oct. 21
Emergency Services News
The Ottawa Police Service is joining our partners from Ottawa By-law and Regulatory Services, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, the University of Ottawa, Carleton University and the Sandy Hill Community Association to support this year’s Panda Game event. Building on last year’s positive celebrations, the OPS’s goal is to ensure that this year’s festivities are safe, enjoyable, and respectful for everyone. Officers will focus on Criminal Code, Liquor Licence and Control Act offences, and other general conduct issues. As always, public safety will be the number one priority. Police and By-law officers will once again go door-to-door in the Sandy Hill/ByWard Market and Old Ottawa South areas to speak directly to residents and businesses. Police and By-law are aware of several addresses that have previously raised concerns and will monitor them. Property owners can grant police Agent Status in advance to enable officers to enforce the Trespass to Property Act if partygoers spill onto their private property. Visit ottawapolice.ca/AgentStatus. We remind partygoers that Police and By-law Officers will enforce the law, so we encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly. We ask attendees to respect the communities where the Panda Game-related events are taking place as they did during last year’s event.
Here are some tips:
- Plan your ride. Drive sober. No alcohol. No drugs. Order a rideshare, take public transit or stay overnight.
- Be a good neighbour. Loud and rowdy parties do not make good neighbour relations. Keep the noise/music to a dull roar and respect property in your neighbourhood.
- Keep alcohol where it belongs. Police will enforce the Liquor Licence and Control Act. Leave the booze at home or drink it at an authorized establishment.
- Don’t invite us to the party. Keep gatherings under control with visitors you know.
- Be a good friend. Watch out for the safety and well-being of one another. Call 911 in an emergency.
If you spot an impaired driver or for emergencies, please call 9-1-1.
A Message from Ottawa Bylaw Services:
Picking your child up for school? Please consider the safety of all students before double parking or stopping in areas where it is not allowed.
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.