September 06, 2024 Newsletter

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September 06, 2024 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.

 

 

A Message from Councillor King

 A comprehensive update on the City of Ottawa’s financial situation was presented to Council this week, in which the City reaffirmed its commitment to strong financial management amid ongoing economic challenges. 

The update offered a picture of the City’s finances and the external pressures unique to the City of Ottawa as we enter the 2025 Budget process. 

In the update, staff detailed City Council’s fiscal leadership and sustained commitment to ensuring value for taxpayers’ money, continuously improving productivity, and delivering services as efficiently as possible – all while making critical investments in frontline services and priority areas such as transit, infrastructure and housing. 


This commitment to strong financial management has resulted in more than $566 million in savings since 2001.  


Highlights of this work include: 

  • $153.5 million in savings during the current Term of Council due to service reviews, the finding of efficiencies and other continuous improvements. 
  • Reducing administrative costs to ensure a lean and efficient organization, while still prioritizing frontline services for residents. 
  • Establishing a long-range financial planning process for various City services, ensuring sound financial discipline and transparency for priority issues. 
  • Maintaining a healthy balance of reserves, including cash and investments. 

Despite these efforts, external financial pressures – particularly declining revenue from payments in lieu of taxes (PILTs), transit ridership levels, increasing construction costs of transit, and inequitable provincial and federal funding – are challenging the City’s established approach to financial management. 

PILTs 

Ottawa has approximately 1,000 properties exempt from regular property taxes that instead pay PILTs. These include properties owned by federal and provincial governments, the National Capital Commission, and diplomatic properties. 


PILTs are intended to offset lost property tax revenue, but actual payments have fallen short. Over the past 10 years, the PILT budget has had to decrease by 4.6 per cent, while property taxes have increased by 30 per cent, placing a greater tax burden on residents instead of government properties. 


The total shortfall in PILTs over the past five years amounts to $99.2 million in lost revenue. If current practices continue, this shortfall could grow to between $252 million and $445 million over the next 10 years. 


Transit 

The shift to remote and hybrid work since COVID-19 has led to a rapid decline in transit ridership, causing projected annual shortfalls of $120 million by 2025 and $150 million by 2028. At the same time, the estimated cost of the Stage 1 and 2 O-Train projects has increased from $5.2 billion to $7.1 billion due to market conditions, the pandemic, and other factors outside the City’s control. 

Unlike light rail projects in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton areas – where construction costs are largely paid by the provincial and federal governments, and maintenance is entirely paid by the provincial government – the City of Ottawa bears all additional costs for the O-Train. As a result, the original funding model, where the City, provincial, and federal governments each covered one-third of costs, has shifted, with the City now covering more than half. 


The need for additional funding 

The City has participated in numerous discussions with the provincial and federal governments over recent years regarding the City’s unique financial challenges and the need for additional funding and support. 

These discussions have led to some positive results, including more than $500 million through the Province’s New Deal for Ottawa, as well as potential future funding under the federal government’s Canada Public Transit Fund. However, none of these agreements address the PILT and transit funding disparity.  


Moving forward, the City is committed to working closely with its government partners to address outstanding issues, including the need to restore revenue from PILTs, reinstating the one-third funding model for transit, and new support for emerging issues to ensure the sustained delivery of high-quality and reliable service for Ottawa residents. 


In response to the need for additional funding, I wrote a letter to Paul Calandra, Ontario Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, and Sean Fraser, Federal Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities on August 9th, in support of Mayor Sutcliffe's request for increased financial support for the City of Ottawa.

The Mayor and Council are not asking for special treatment from senior levels of government, but for equitable support that recognizes Ottawa's unique position and challenges. As the nation's capital and a major Ontario city, Ottawa's success is integral to the prosperity of both the province and the country.  As a consequence, I am supportive of the Mayor’s request for additional funding from senior levels of government and the unified response of Council this week to advocate for a fair and sustainable funding approach for Ottawa into the future.

Your Councillor in the Community

 

On Sept. 4, City Council unanimously approved a Commemorative Naming motion put forward by Rideau-Vanier Councillor Stéphanie Plante and seconded by me to rename Besserer Park in Ward 12 as Herbert and Estelle Brown Park. Herbert and Estelle Brown are important Black figures in Ottawa and hold special significance to the community of Ward 12 as the founders of Brown’s Cleaners and as pillars in the diaspora Caribbean community.

 

Great to celebrate the graduates of the City of Ottawa’s partnership-led Financial Literacy Program for Black youth at Lansdowne Park last week. This initiative responds directly to the City's Anti-racism Strategy's call to invest in the development and empowerment of youth.

 

Great to join Councillor Hill at the final regular season Ottawa Titans game last weekend at the Ottawa Baseball Stadium in Overbrook! Congratulations on the team qualifying for a Frontier League wildcard playoff spot!

 

Had an amazing time last weekend with MPP Lucille Collard at the New Edinburgh Fieldhouse Annual Community BBQ celebrating the Crichton Community Council’s 50th anniversary!

 

It was great to join hundreds of families at the home opener for the North Gloucester Giants team. Happy to join Councillor Tierney at Gil O Julien Park last weekend to recognize the leadership, dedication and teamwork of our local youth!

Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities

Farmers' Market in New Edinburgh Park 
Enjoy a farmers' market closer to home, in New Edinburgh Park near the New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse, at 203 Stanley Avenue. Every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm. For details, please visit ottstreetmarkets.ca. The Ottawa Street Market is also open at the Farm Store at 1805 Gaspe in Manor Park on Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm and Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 3 to 6 pm. 


Oakhill, Corona and Carsdale Integrated Renewal Update - Road closures extended until Oct. 15

Project update: The Corona piping is complete and homes have already been connected to the new live watermain. On Oakhill, City Drinking Water staff will complete the watermain connection and KCE will finish the storm sewer installation on the next two weeks. The Carsdale watermain work has begun and is expected to be completed in the next few weeks. Road grading and asphalt paving on Corona, Oakhill, Carsdale and the laneway will be completed in September. Landscaping will take place in early October.

Road closure extension: Given site conditions and ongoing progress, it is anticipated that asphalt paving will be completed by the end of September. The contractor has requested that the roads remain closed for the first two weeks of October so that they can complete the landscaping efficiently.

 

BeechFest - Sept. 7

On Saturday, September 7 from 3 to 9 pm, the Vanier BIA hosts its annual Beechwood Avenue street fair. From St. Charles to Marier, the street will be activated with live music and shows, arts and crafts, food and drink, and so much more! For details, please visit Facebook. This is a rain or shine event.


Beechwood Avenue Road Closure - Sept. 7
*** Please note, Beechwood Avenue will be closed to vehicles on Sept. 7 from 1 to 11 pm during BeechFest. The detour is Marier-Barrette-St. Charles. Bicycles must be walked through the site during the road closure.



Beechwood's Annual Historical Tour - Sept. 8
The Beechwood Cemetery presents the Annual Historical Tour as a living library on Sept. 8 from 2 to 4 pm at 280 Beechwood Avenue. Learn firsthand about incredible people and how they shaped history, performed by the Ottawa School of Theatre. Please arrive before 3:20 pm to enjoy the full experience. Dress for the weather. For more information, please visit Facebook, call 613-741-9530 or email [email protected].


North River Road Traffic Calming Study & Active Transportation Facilities - 2 surveys open until Sept. 9
  
The City is doing two surveys regarding North River Road:
  • A traffic-calming study for North River Road between Donald and south of Wright Street in response to traffic concerns. The study aims to recommend local and minor permanent roadway modifications to improve safety and reduce traffic speeds. As part of this, the City has developed a proposed traffic-calming plan. Your feedback on this plan is appreciated. Please fill out the North River Road Neighbourhood Traffic Calming Study survey by September 9 at Ottawa.ca/NorthRiverRoad (or scan the QR code in the poster)

  • The City is proposing active transportation improvements such as cycling lanes, sidewalk segments, improved bus stops and intersection improvements along North River Road to improve safety and accessibility, and to encourage cycling and connections to transit stops. Your feedback on this proposed North River Road Active Transportation Facilities plan before September 9 is appreciated: Ottawa.ca/NorthRiverRoad (or scan the QR code in the poster.

 

Fibre optic installation - Presland Road - Starting Sept. 10

Rogers has applied to the City to install fibre optics along the City's right-of-way on Presland Road between both ends of Whitton Crescent. The work will include boring trenches and pits where required, placement of PVC conduit and replacing an existing Rogers pedestal. The project is anticipated to start Sept. 10. 

 

Orange Shirt Day at The Rideau Community Hub - Sept. 10

The Odawa Native Friendship Centre hosts Orange Shirt Day on Sept. 10 from 11 am to 1 pm at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard. The event will feature opening remarks, awareness and education in Room 125 and an Indian taco fundraiser in Room 106 with proceeds going to Odawa programs. The Every Child Matters flag will be raised at 1 pm. For more information, please visit odawafc.com or www.facebook.com/OdawaNFC.

 

Memory Cafes at the Ottawa Public Library - Every Wednesday starting Sept. 11 at the Vanier Branch
Select branches of the Ottawa Public Library, including the Vanier branch at 310 des Pères-Blancs Avenue, will be hosting Memory Café programs, open houses for persons with dementia, their care partners, and families. Fun and stimulating mental activities are planned to enhance the social interactions and connections built within the group. Light snacks and warm drinks are served alongside items that aim to spark conversations and reminiscing. Each session will feature a different theme. This is a drop-in program - registration is not required.


Vanier BIA Akoustic at St. Charles - Sept. 11 and 25

Join the Vanier BIA this summer for Akoustik, a FREE outdoor live music event in Vanier at the St. Charles Market, located at the corner of Beechwood Avenue and St. Charles Street. Upcoming dates are Sept. 11 and 25, from 6 to 8 pm. For details and updates, please visit www.facebook.com/ZACVanierBIA.

 

Employment Fair - Sept. 12

Immigrants and Francophones - are you looking for work? Attend a special event where you can learn about employment and services in French on Sept. 12 from 10 am to 3 pm at 270 Marier Ave. at the Vanier Community Services Centre (CSC Vanier) on the first floor.

 

Pollinator Garden Tour & Edible plant and herb walk - Sept. 14

Join Deborah Doherty, local native plant gardener and co-chair of Bird Friendly Ottawa, and Corrie Rabbe, your neighborhood herbalist and nutritionist from Radical Health, to learn more about the native plants in your neighbourhood. Deborah will chat about native plants in the Donald Street boulevard gardens and how you can grow native plants in your gardens. Corrie will take you on a tour where you will learn about the many common edible and medicinal wild plants, and will identify and teach about local and sustainable plant medicine and food in beautiful Riverain Park. She will share tips and recipes for the safe use of wild plants. The tour and walk are scheduled for Sept. 14 from 9 to 11 am. Meet at the Adàwe Crossing at 1 Donald Street.


The Age of AI: Inclusive Innovation for Canada’s Global Leadership - Sept. 13

Join me, Councillor Rawlson King, in taking a deep dive into "The Age of AI: Inclusive Innovation for Canada's Global Leadership," a panel discussion around ensuring emerging technologies like AI provide opportunities for full and active participation of all citizens. This event takes place Sept. 13 from 3 to 8 pm at Invest Ottawa, located at 7 Bayview Station Road. For details and tickets, please visit Eventbrite.

 

Art for Heart free paint series at St. Laurent Shopping Centre - Sept. 13 & 14

Launching on September 13, St. Laurent Shopping Centre will host Art for Heart, a free paint series in support of Kids Help Phone. This series will offer three art classes for participants to learn valuable art skills from Ottawa School of the Arts instructors, listen to local DJs, receive a free Atletico Ottawa ticket and support mental health awareness. Interested in becoming a participant? Click here for more information, or click here to sign up. This launch of this series aims to provide access for local youth to healthy outlets that support their best well-being.

 

Vanier BIA Inuit Olympics - Sept. 14

Join the Vanier BIA at the Vanier HUB, 271 Marier Avenue, for Inuit Olympics - a day of competition and traditional games as well as music, activities and a hearty meal. This event takes place Sept. 14 from 11 am to 2 pm.

 

FAB Festival - Sept. 14 


Tickets (free admission) are now available for the FAB Festival, a family-friendly event celebrating everyday creativity in our community, taking place Sept. 14 from 10 am to 5 pm at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Blvd. The Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre is partnering with the Ottawa Family Cinema, which will be featuring The LEGO Batman 3D movie at 2 pm at the Rideau Community Hub. Tickets are available at: fabfest.eventbrite.com

 

New Edinburgh Neighbourhood Sale - Sept. 21

The New Edinburgh Neighbourhood Sale will take place Saturday, September 21 from 8 am until 12 pm. Homeowners, condominium groups, religious congregations, businesses, non-profit organizations and artists are encouraged to hold sales on private property throughout New Edinburgh. The area around the New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse, located at 203 Stanley Avenue, will be a busy sales centre since the weekly market coincides with the neighbourhood sale. For more details, please visit newedinburgh.ca. 

 

Vanier BIA Orange T-shirt-making day - Sept. 21

Prepare for Truth and Reconciliation Day by coming to the Vanier HUB at 271 Marier Avenue to decorate your own orange T-shirt. Happening Sept. 21 from 11 am to 3 pm.

 

Ottawa Chamberfest Torch Songs - Sept. 22

Join Ottawa Chamberfest for a sizzling evening of Torch Songs featuring Ottawa’s own Julie Nesrallah! The Gala with Julie Nesrallah features an 11-piece ensemble, wine, hors d’oeuvres and sweet treats, plus a silent auction. The event takes place Sept. 22 at 6 pm at the Beechwood Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Avenue. For details and tickets, please visit chamberfest.com or call 613-234-6306.

 

Old Railway Rideau River Pedestrian Bridge - hybrid information session - Sept. 24

SAVE THE DATE: The City of Ottawa is undertaking an Environmental Assessment (EA) study for the renewal of Old Railway Rideau River Pedestrian Bridge. The bridge carried a single railway track on the former CP Rail Montreal & Ottawa Subdivision until its abandonment in 1966 and was re-purposed by 1972 to carry only pedestrian and cycling traffic. The bridge provides an important multi-use active transportation link between the National Capital Commission’s Rideau River Eastern Pathway and the City of Ottawa’s Rideau River Western Pathway / Rideau River Nature Trail. In 2018, a detailed condition assessment was completed and concluded that the structure was in overall poor condition, with several components showing significant signs of deterioration. The purpose of the EA will be to identify and evaluate options for bridge renewal or replacement considering different alignment possibilities in accordance with the EA planning process.

A hybrid Public Information Session is scheduled for September 24. The in-person session will take place at the Sandy Hill Community Centre, 250 Somerset St. East, from 6 to 8 pm with the virtual Q&A session scheduled from 8:30 to 9:30 pm following the in-person meeting. There will be no formal presentation. The presentation material will be on display at the venue and can be accessed on the City of Ottawa website located at ottawa.ca. If you have any questions or comments or would like to be included on the project’s notification list, please respond to the email address shown below. Please provide your comments to the City's project manager, Kosta Karadakis, by emailing [email protected] by Oct. 8.

 

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 in late September or early October. My office will share the details once they are confirmed by City staff. Details will also be updated on the project webpage.

 

Homes for the Holidays - Sept. 26

Enjoy the 22nd annul Homes for the Holidays launch event at the Spanish Ambassador's stunning home in the Rockcliffe Park community on Sept. 26 from 6 to 8 pm. This special evening, which is a fundraiser for Hospice Care Ottawa, will feature mingling, wine, hors d'oeuvres and music. For more information and to purchase tickets, please click here.

 

Creative Expressions for racialized women and femmes - Starts Sept. 28

The much-anticipated Creative Expressions program is back, just in time to welcome the fall season with a sense of renewal and transformation. This annual favourite introduces fresh, inspiring activities that foster sisterhood and creativity. This year's theme, "Roots and Blossoms," is a 7-week journey designed exclusively for racialized women and femmes. Centered on the theme of "Evolution," the program provides a nurturing space for participants to explore personal and collective growth through diverse artistic and cultural expressions. The program begins Sept. 28 from 11 am to 2 pm at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard, in Room 220. Space is limited. Registration is required by clicking here. Questions? Email [email protected] This program is exclusively for Black, Indigenous Women of Colour (BIWOC), Femmes, and Newcomer women who identify as part of the BIPOC community.   

 

Afro-Caribbean Community Market - Sept. 28

In collaboration with the Association of Black Entrepreneurs and Professionals of Ottawa-Gatineau, the Vanier BIA welcomes a group of Black-owned businesses offering crafts, food and fun. The market takes place at the Vanier HUB, 271 Marier Avenue, on Sept. 28 from 12 to 5 pm.

 

New Edinburgh Studio Tour - Sept. 28 and 29


The self-guided New Edinburgh Studio Tour (NEST) takes place annually on the fourth weekend in September: Sept. 28 and 29. Approximately 20 artists, who live or work creatively within New Edinburgh will be opening their studio doors to the public. Locations of the studios will be scattered throughout New Edinburgh and are within walking or biking distance. Admission to the studio tour is free and everyone is welcome. Artwork will be exhibited and available for sale, and live demonstrations will occur throughout the day. NEST offers the public a unique opportunity to encounter professional and emerging local artists in the studios where they work. For more information, please visit www.nestudiotour.ca.

 

National Military Cemetery Clean-Up - Sept. 29 and Oct. 20

The National Military Cemetery Clean-Up 2024 will take place on September 29, 2024, with a second date of 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: September 29, 2024, or 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.

 

Vote for the Vanier basketball court - Voting deadline extended until Sept. 30
One of three community sports projects in Ottawa has the opportunity to secure $100,000 from the OSEG Foundation, including the vision of establishing a Vanier basketball court. In partnership with Prezdential, a social enterprise that is dedicated to bridging the gap faced by disadvantaged youth in Ottawa, the Vanier basketball court project would create accessible outdoor basketballs spaces that remove barriers to access for youth in this community. Prezdential and Rideau-Vanier Councillor Stéphanie Plante, with support from the Vanier BIA, my office, the Snowsuit Fund and the Ottawa Basketball Network, are hoping to develop a parking lot behind the Bernard-Grandmaître Arena into a basketball court. Vanier currently does not have outdoor basketball courts from Montreal Road to McArthur Avenue. The project to receive the most votes will secure an OSEG community grant. Please visit osegfoundation.ca to cast your vote before the Sept. 30 deadline. Check out the video here. 

City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities 



Share your experience participating in Ottawa’s municipal elections - Survey open until Oct. 3

The City of Ottawa’s Elections Office wants your feedback on a number of topics including your experience participating in the 2022 Municipal Elections (if applicable), election-related communications, accessibility, and voting methods for future elections. The information you provide will help City staff plan future municipal elections in our city. Survey results will be summarized in a report to the Finance and Corporate Services Committee and City Council in advance of the 2026 Municipal Elections, taking place on Monday, October 26, 2026. The survey will be available until 11:59 pm on Thursday, October 3, and will take approximately 10 minutes to complete. If you are unable to complete this survey online or require an accommodation under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, please contact the Elections Office by telephone at 613-580-2660 or by email at [email protected]. Staff are available to assist you from Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

 

Add routine vaccinations to your back-to-school checklist

Ottawa Public Health is reminding families to take precautions to help prevent the spread of illness and get their children up to date on vaccines as they head back to school. In Ontario, all children going to school need to be vaccinated against certain diseases or have a valid exemption. Some vaccine-preventable diseases like pertussis (whooping cough) have been circulating in our community and can be very serious in some people. The start of the school year is a great time to ensure your child’s routine vaccines are up to date. OPH will review student immunization records this fall and will send letters to parents and guardians of children who haven’t updated their vaccination records, as required by the Immunization of Schools Pupils Act (ISPA) to attend school. Parents and caregivers can visit ParentingInOttawa.ca/Immunization for more information on routine vaccines, where to get routine vaccines, and how to report routine vaccines to OPH. For more information, please visit Ottawa Public Health encourages families to help prevent the spread of illness and get up to date on vaccines as children go back to school.

 

2024 Sidewalk Inspection Pilot
Sidewalk assessments are a legislative requirement under the Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways and must be completed each calendar year. The City of Ottawa then uses the information from the inspections to prioritize and schedule repairs, to be completed in compliance with the Council-approved Maintenance Quality Standards and the Ontario Regulation 239/02 Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways (MMS). Typically, as part of the City's regular summer maintenance activities, city crews conduct sidewalk inspections, identify hazards and repair them. Given the geographic size of the city, it can be a challenge to cover the more than 2,600 kilometres of sidewalk network throughout the city while continuing to complete daily maintenance tasks. That is why last year, as part of the pilot project, the City hired an external contractor to perform sidewalk inspections and identify hazards within 7 wards.
Following the completion of their inspections, they provided staff with the data, which staff used to prioritize and begin repairs for the identified hazards. Following the success of last year’s pilot, and the consistency of data that was received amongst those wards that were part of the pilot, Roads and Parking Services have procured a contractor that will complete sidewalk inspections across the entirety of the City in an expanded pilot. Hiring a contractor to complete this work allows City crews to focus their efforts on repairs to the sidewalk network. The hired contractor has numerous staff who will be completing their inspections across the city, to evaluate the current state of the sidewalks, identify potential hazards, and determine any necessary maintenance or repair work required. Each defect is noted with coordinates, applicable notes about the deficiency, including a date and time stamp, and photos as required. This technology provides an efficient and accurate approach to managing inspection points throughout the assessment. Utilizing the same technology, the data is collected in a format that integrates into the City’s Geographic Information System (GIS) files. Staff then utilize the data collected to effectively and efficiently review the information collected and prioritize sidewalk maintenance and repairs. The hired contractor began the sidewalk survey pilot project in mid-August and will continue their assessment for an approximate timeframe of 10 to 12 weeks. You may see them out and about! The contractor’s staff will be walking the sidewalk network to inspect and assess the condition of the sidewalks. Each surveyor is equipped with a data collection tablet and integrated GPS receiver. This approach is non-invasive and allows for the network and its users to be unaffected throughout the duration of the data collection.



Draft 2024 Development Charges Amendment Background Study

The City of Ottawa's Draft 2024 Development Charges Amendment Background Study dated August 30, 2024, reflects recent changes made to the list of water and sanitary sewer (wastewater) projects because of the passage of the City’s new Infrastructure Master Plan (IMP) in June. The amendment includes updated capital projects, which reflect new timing, costing and scope of work. In addition, the planning horizon has been extended to 2046 from 2031 to align with the City’s Official Plan. The IMP was not available at the time the original 2024 Provisional Development Charges Background Study was approved on May 15, 2024. The City of Ottawa's Draft 2024 Development Charges Amendment Background Study for adjusting the Water and Sanitary (Wastewater) Services rates has been posted on ottawa.ca. The Draft Addendum is available here: Draft 2024 Development Charges Amendment Background Study. The amendment has been posted to allow a 60-day comment period, with a report rising to Council on October 30, 2024. For additional information or if you have any questions, please email [email protected]. For more information, please visit ottawa.ca.

 

O-Train Extension interactive map

OC Transpo is excited to launch a new feature on the O-Train X website: an interactive map, designed to familiarize you to the future of the O-Train Network! With this new tool, you can now:

  • Learn more about existing and future stations: Explore detailed information about future stops, their locations and features.
  • Plan your route: With new multi-use pathways, bus connections, and a list of Park & Rides, your options for connecting to transit will expand.
  • Discover O-Train Extension benefits: From wifi, to public art, and more the O-Train Extension will enhance the commuting experience!

It's your all-in-one tool. Hop on and explore today!

 

Lansdowne 2.0 Engagement Session - Sept. 10

City staff have prepared a site plan application for the proposed new Lansdowne 2.0 event centre. Join the City for a virtual information and comment session on Tuesday, September 10 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Register here. Learn more about Lansdowne 2.0 here: Lansdowne 2.0 | Engage Ottawa. 

 

Free planned giving workshop - Sept. 12

The Rideau Valley Conservation Foundation is hosting a free planned giving workshop in the Sandy Hill community for anyone with an interest in estate planning and charitable giving. Thinking about your legacy? Join financial and estate planning experts for a FREE planned giving workshop on Thursday, Sept. 12 at the Sandy Hill Community Centre, 250 Somerset Street East! Discover how leaving charitable gifts in your will can help reduce estate taxes and capital gains while supporting causes close to your heart. Experts from IG Wealth Management and Kelly Santini LLP will be there to answer all your questions. Enjoy coffee, treats and an engaging presentation! Questions? Contact [email protected] Space is limited, so please register in advance to reserve your spot: www.eventbrite.ca/e/free-planned-giving-workshop-coffee-hour-sandy-hill-ottawa-tickets-927487840097

 

Have your say on Draft Budget 2025 - poll open until Sept. 13

Image of Ottawa City Hall with the words “Draft Budget 2025. Have your say!” To the right of the image, there are four circles depicting a pedestrian on a street, a young person watering a tree, two people at a coffee shop, and a residential building.

Budget 2025 is right around the corner, and we want to hear from you! Tell City staff what budget priorities matter to you by visiting the Engage Ottawa Draft Budget 2025 page to complete a short poll. The poll is open until Friday, September 13 and the results will be posted on Engage Ottawa. 

 

Nominations open for 13th Annual Order of Ottawa and Brian Kilrea Award for Excellence in Coaching - Until Sept. 13

  

The City is now accepting nominations for the 2024 Order of Ottawa and the Brian Kilrea Award for Excellence in Coaching. You can complete nominations for both awards either online or by downloading a nomination form from the Order of Ottawa award webpage. The submission deadline is Friday, September 13 at 11:59 pm. Nominations will be considered every year for five consecutive years from the date of submission.

 

Register for the 2024 Ottawa Fire Truck Pull - Registration now open


Scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 5, the event will see teams of 10 converging on Lansdowne Park’s Aberdeen Plaza, all ready to showcase their strength and endurance by pulling a 10+tonne Ottawa Fire Services fire truck a full 100 feet. Just gather up to nine friends, register, and collectively raise at least $1,000. All proceeds from the event will support Epilepsy Ottawa. Presented by ODBF in collaboration with Ottawa Fire Services, the Ottawa Fire Truck Pull promises to be a day of challenges, delight, and support for a great cause. Visit www.ottawafiretruckpull.com for more information and to register. 

 

Ottawa’s New Older Adult Plan - in-person consultation Sept. 17; survey open until Sept. 30

The City of Ottawa is planning for the development of its new Older Adult Plan. City staff are continuing to consult with residents and community agencies to determine the priorities and structure needed to facilitate the implementation of a new plan. Ottawa's older adults are invited to an in-person consultation event on Sept. 17 from 1:30 to 3:30 pm at the Ron Kolbus Lakeside Centre, 102 Greenview Avenue. The information you provide will inform the City of Ottawa's new iteration of the Older Adult Plan, which will be launched in 2025. There is a limited amount of space, please register here to attend. Should you have any challenges using the online form, you can call Bay Ward Councillor Theresa Kavanagh’s office at 613-580-2477, ext. 17007. Registration will close once we reach our maximum capacity. If you are unable to attend, you can also complete the online survey at engage.ottawa.ca/oap. The survey will be open until Sept. 30. If you have questions about this survey or the new Older Adult Plan, email [email protected].

 

Ottawa International Animation Festival - Sept. 20 to 24

The 2024 Ottawa International Animation Festival, the second largest event of its kind in the world, takes place September 25 to 29 at various venues in downtown Ottawa. From insightful panels and entertaining screenings, to legendary social events like the Toon Boom Boat Cruise and Animators' picnic, the festival offers something for all ages. On September 26, join Ottawa Film Commissioner Sandrine Pechels de Saint Sardos as she moderates a panel on diverse adopted strategies studios to navigate the actual turbulent waters and changes at TAC (The Animation Conference). Interested in pursuing or advancing a career in animation? Don't miss the www.animationfestival.ca/tac/artbiz at the National Arts Centre on September 27 for artist talks and a career fair. High school students and teachers can obtain a free Saturday Day Pass to attend these events. For the festival's full schedule and for tickets and passes, please visit animationfestival.ca.

 

Fall Volunteer Expo - Sept. 20

 

Volunteer Ottawa is holding its Fall Volunteer Expo on Friday, September 20, 2024 from 3 to 6 pm at the Nepean Sportsplex, 1701 Woodroffe Avenue. This is a free, in-person event where you can speak with dozens of local charities about volunteer opportunities. More information and the full list of participating charities are available on the VO website. This is a great event for high school students looking for community service hours, seniors and retirees wanting to stay active, and newcomers interested in getting to know the community. And anyone else interested in volunteering.

 

Major Capital Project Funding applications for cultural facilities - Submission deadline is Sept. 25

The next deadline for the City of Ottawa's Cultural Facilities Fund - Major Capital Projects is September 25, 2024. The Major Capital Cultural Facilities Fund is designed to improve cultural spaces and facilities across the City of Ottawa. It provides eligible cultural organizations with funds for major capital projects, i.e., renovation, construction, restoration projects, purchase of specialized equipment with costs exceeding $60,000, and capital studies (prefeasibility and feasibility). For details, please visit ottawa.ca.

 

City of Ottawa Youth in Culture Pilot Program - Application deadline is Sept. 25

The next deadline to submit an application for the City's Youth in Culture Pilot Program is Sept. 25 at 4 pm. 

Objectives of the program:

First-time applicants are encouraged to apply. The City will fund projects up to $1,000. For more information, please visit ottawa.ca. 

 

Wiggle Waggle Walk & Run - Sept. 29

The Ottawa Humane Society's annual Wiggle Waggle Walk & Run takes place Sept. 29 on the Great Lawn at Lansdowne Park, 1525 Princess Patricia Way. The event is from 8 am to 12:30 pm. The event raises funds to care for Ottawa's homeless animals. Click here for details, to register or donate. 

 

Three-item garbage limit - Effective Sept. 30

On Monday, September 30, the City of Ottawa will introduce a limit of three items of garbage to be picked up at the curb on collection day.  A garbage item could be a garbage bag, a garbage container up to 140 litres or a bulky item such as an unusable or broken piece of furniture. Households can put several smaller bags in one garbage container to count as one item. There is no limit to how much residents can set out through curbside recycling, green bins and leaf and yard waste bags. This change only applies to residents who receive curbside garbage collection. Not sure if this applies to you? Visit Ottawa.ca/garbage for more information and search your address to find out.

Yellow bags for residents: Residents who need to go above the three-item garbage limit can purchase yellow bags from participating Home Hardware stores, Building Materials & Renovations and select City facilities. Yellow bags for residents will be available for purchase later this year in advance of the three-item garbage limit. Yellow bags will be sold in packages of four at a cost of $17.60. The City is exploring options to expand where yellow bags can be purchased. More information will be available later this year. There is no limit to the number of yellow bags that can be set out for collection.

 

Cleaning the Capital Fall Campaign - Registration open until Oct. 1

Registration is now open for the Cleaning the Capital Fall campaign. Cleanup projects will take place between September 15 and October 15. Participants can register their cleanup projects by using the online registration form available at ottawa.ca/clean. The registration form populates an interactive map with pins that display the location, date, and time of all registered cleanup projects. Cleanup kits, which include garbage bags and nitrile gloves, will be made available for pick-up by registrants at one of 14 City of Ottawa facilities across the city. This fall, based on participant feedback and demand, we have added four new cleanup kit pick-up sites (including two rural pick-up locations). As the new three-item limit for curbside garbage collection will come into effect during this campaign, participants are encouraged to review the instructions and options for proper disposal of collected waste/litter prior to their planned cleanup projects. This information will be communicated to participants via registration confirmation, as well as through ottawa.ca/clean.

Key Fall campaign dates:
August 15: Registration begins
September 15 to October 15: Cleaning the Capital Fall campaign
October 1: Deadline to register
November 1: Deadline to submit online cleanup reports

Emergency Services New

Community Engagement Consultation Survey Now Online - Open until Sept. 7

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The Ottawa Police Service Board (OPSB) and the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) are seeking community views about how the Ottawa Police Service is performing, what the strategic goals should be for the Ottawa Police Service, and what the policing priorities should be in Ottawa. We encourage everyone who works and lives in Ottawa to participate in the Community Engagement Consultation Survey to guide what the Service’s priorities should be in the future. Ottawa is a diverse community, and to make sure that everyone has an opportunity to be heard, the survey is being issued in eight different languages including English, French, Somali, Arabic, simplified Chinese, Farsi, Inuktitut and Spanish. To participate in the survey, please visit the OPSB and OPS Survey page and click the appropriate language link. This public consultation process will continue until September 7. This survey is provides important input into the 2025 OPS Draft Budget discussions. The consultation results are expected to be presented at the Regular Meeting of the Board on September 23. If you have questions about the survey or the consultation process, please email [email protected].

 

Purchase your tickets for the 13th Annual OPS Gala to be held Nov. 2

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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.

 

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