September 12, 2025 Newsletter

September 25, 2025 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.

A Message from Councillor King

This week, I voted against Ottawa's proposed 2026 budget directions, expressing my concerns about the significant variance ranges built into the budgetary framework. While Council ultimately approved overall direction limiting property tax increases to 3.75%, I objected to the wide budgetary ranges assigned to key services.

The approved budget directions include substantial variance ranges. The Ottawa Police Service, as an example, could see increases between 2.9% and 6.5%, while Transit Services faces an even broader range of 3% to 15%, coupled with transit fare increases spanning 2.5% to 7.5%. I believe that such wide parameters create uncertainty and undermine effective fiscal planning.

The up to 6.5% increase for police represents approximately $30 million in additional spending and would be the largest police budget increase in 15 years during a time when other essential services face constraints.

I am also concerned about transit, as I believe increasing fares up to 7.5% would have an unimaginable and unconscionable impact on low-income and working families. Public transit should remain accessible and affordable for all residents. Consequently, I voted for a motion to cap transit fare increases at up to 2.9%, but that motion failed.

I also voted against a motion to cap the number of staff on the municipal payroll for 2026, as I believe that we should have a full assessment of how many employees are needed to deliver services properly before Council considers the implementation of a cap.

My dissenting vote highlights ongoing tensions between maintaining budgetary flexibility for essential services and ensuring predictable, fiscal management that provides transparency for residents.

I believe predictability should be a cornerstone of municipal budgeting because excessive variance makes it difficult for residents to anticipate actual tax impacts and complicates long-term financial planning for both the municipality and taxpayers.

The Draft Operating and Capital Budget will be tabled at City Council on Wednesday, November 12. Each Standing Committee will meet in November or early December to consider their parts of draft 2026 budget. I invite residents to share their thoughts through various engagement opportunities. Please visit Engage Ottawa to learn more. Council will vote on the final budget on Wednesday, December 10.

***

New Zoning Bylaw – Final Draft

The City has released the final draft of the New Zoning Bylaw, which is available for review on Engage Ottawa. This version will be presented to Joint Committee (Planning and Housing and Agriculture and Rural Affairs) before going to City Council later this fall. It is essential that all residents take the time to review and provide comments on this final draft.

An example close to home, 47 Beechwood Avenue, highlighted an important gap in our planning framework. Stronger transition zone guidelines are needed between established neighbourhoods and adjacent higher-density areas. These guidelines are essential to safeguard the character of our traditional main streets while allowing for thoughtful, context-sensitive evolution.

The new zoning bylaw also needs to recognize and reinforce the unique character of our neighbourhoods, specifically heritage. In Rideau-Rockcliffe, our built form is shaped not only by main streets but also by long-standing residential patterns, heritage conservation districts, and landmark properties. Without clear protections, there is a risk that new development and proposed zoning changes could undermine this character. The bylaw must ensure that heritage overlays and design guidelines are respected and strengthened, so that growth is guided by context and history, not just density targets.

As the New Zoning Bylaw moves through the review process, I will be actively advocating for provisions that protect neighbourhood character, heritage, and context. For Rideau-Rockcliffe residents, this means supporting growth that respects heritage assets, traditional main streets, and community needs while contributing positively to the evolution of our neighbourhoods. I encourage everyone to review the final draft and participate whether it is sending in comments at [email protected] or participating at one of the information sessions:

Virtual Open House: Wed. Sept. 17, 6 - 8 PM

In-person Open House: Tues. Sept. 23, 6 - 8:30 PM, EY Centre (4899 Uplands Dr)

Virtual Open House: Thurs. Sept. 25, 6- 8 PM

In-person Open House: Mon. Sept. 29, 6 - 8:30 PM, Ottawa Conference & Convention Centre (200 Coventry Rd)

The comment period runs Sept. 8 to Oct. 3. I will be releasing a position paper on the New Zoning By-law in the coming weeks. It will be informed by a detailed review of the final draft, any recent changes, and the extensive input I have received from the community. The paper will be available on my website once complete.

I remain committed to ensuring that future development strikes the right balance, creating vibrant, livable communities for generations to come.

***

Traffic and traffic calming updates:

Navigating traffic during rush hour, particularly cut-through traffic, remains a top priority for me and my office. Many of you may have already noticed the new flashing No Right Turn sign at Donald Street and North River Road - funded through our Temporary Traffic Calming (TTC) program.

This measure is aimed at reducing the cut-through traffic through the North River Road neighbourhood. It may take some time for drivers to adjust to the change, but it is a step toward improving safety and reducing congestion. My office has also requested additional signage along the Vanier Parkway to better direct traffic and further discourage cut-through driving.

Additionally, more improvements are on the way this September, especially around our schools.

As parents and children settle back in to back to school routines, it’s more important than ever for drivers to stay alert. Please slow down, be aware of your surroundings, and watch for children crossing streets or boarding buses. Small actions - like yielding at crosswalks, respecting no-parking zones, and reducing speed - make the difference in keeping our communities safe.

Specific actions taking place this fall around our school:

Rockcliffe: Delineators have been installed to clearly mark the no-parking area at the school drop-off zone. We continue to work with staff to explore the opportunity for a new crosswalk in this area.
Manor Park Public School: Additional enforcement will continue. Please pay close attention to walking paths and no-parking zones to ensure the safety of children.
Frances/Donald: Flex stakes have been adjusted for greater effectiveness. New measures, including thermal paint on the road and additional signage, were added to improve awareness and address concerns about speeding.
Lawson/Frances: Painted bulb-outs and delineators have been introduced to discourage parking near curves and to help manage both parking and speeding issues.

Your Councillor in the Community

I was honoured to provide opening remarks on behalf of the City of Ottawa at the Mehari Centre’s 2nd Annual General Meeting this week.

Amazing to celebrate the nominees for the Ottawa Business Woman of the Year Awards this week at City Hall with the Mayor, Council colleagues and the City’s senior leadership team.

Amazing to attend the Grandmothers to Grandmothers fundraiser in support of sub-Saharan Africa on Grandparents Day last weekend for the Stephen Lewis Foundation with Councillors Stephanie Plante and Jeff Leiper at the Adawe Crossing!

I had an amazing time serving corn with MP Mona Fortier and MPP Lucille Collard at the annual Vanier BIA BeechFest event last weekend in Beechwood Village. An incredible 5,500 people attended, including Mayor

Mark Sutcliffe!

Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities

Full subsidies available for Rideau Hub theatre classes

There are still full subsidies available for children and youth living in Rideau-Rockcliffe to join Rideau Hub theatre classes offered by the Ottawa School of Theatre at 815 St. Laurent Boulevard! At least two full subsidies remain—and likely more. Spots are open in the following programs:

Story Drama (ages 7–8)
Young Musical (ages 6–8)
Intermediate Musical (ages 11–12)
Acting on Camera (ages 13–17)
Drama Play sessions (ages 4-5)

👉 Browse all classes and register here: Rideau Hub Classes

Beechwood Market - Saturdays until Oct. 25

The Beechwood Market, at 203 Stanley Avenue, takes place every Saturday, 9 am to 1 pm, until October 25. Details: ottstreetmarkets.ca/our-markets/beechwood-market

St. Laurent Boulevard Fibre Network Installation - Construction to begin the week of Sept. 8

Starting the week of September 8, the City of Ottawa will be undertaking a traffic duct installation project. This work is being done to enhance communication links to existing traffic signals and increase the communication capacity and efficiency to the City’s Traffic Signal System and Traffic Camera System Network.

What: The construction will consist of traffic duct installation within the west sidewalk/boulevard along St. Laurent Boulevard. Installation works will consist of sidewalk removal and replacement as well as directional drilling to install the new duct.
Why: This work is being done to enhance communication links to existing traffic signals and increase communication capacity and efficiency to the City’s Traffic Signal System and Traffic Camera System Network.
When: The work is expected to begin the week of September 8 and be completed by late October 2025.
Where: The work will be conducted within the west sidewalk/boulevard between McArthur Avenue and Ogilvie Road, as well as at the east Transitway Ramp across from the St. Laurent Shopping Centre.
Who: The City of Ottawa has retained the contractor, JWK Utilities & Site Services Ltd., to complete the work.

Traffic impacts: To accommodate the proposed works, various lane reductions, and delays are expected. Sidewalk closures along the west side of St. Laurent Boulevard are also expected. Pedestrians will be directed to use the adjacent sidewalk along the east side.
Driveway access: As the various road reconstruction activities are in progress on your street, on-street parking may be restricted. In the event that access to your driveway will be impacted, you will receive 24-hours’ notice and provided with a Temporary On-Street Parking Permit (orange form) to permit on-street parking within two blocks of your residence.

**Local access to businesses will be maintained. Temporary bus stop relocations will be required to accommodate the work. Construction will take place during off-peak period, from 9 am to 3:30 pm. Work will only take place in the southbound direction and a minimum of one lane will be maintained in this direction at all times.

For more project details, please visit ottawa.ca. Click here for updates on traffic impacts.

St. Laurent gas main replacement project - update

Aecon Utilities continues work on the Enbridge Gas St. Laurent Pipeline Replacement project at multiple locations in Rideau-Rockcliffe, Beacon Hill-Cyrville and Alta Vista.

Cummings Ave between Ogilvie Road and Cyrville Road, as well as Cummings at Labelle
St. Laurent Blvd. between Belfast Road and Tremblay Road
Ogilvie Road from Cummings Avenue to the St. Laurent Blvd. intersection
Coventry Road from the St. Laurent Blvd. intersection to past Vanier Parkway, near the RCMP building

The work involves the installation of a new 16-inch gas main. Much of the work is being done between 7 pm and 6 am in order to avoid major traffic implications.

Ottawa Technical Secondary School Launches Free Lunch Program for Students in Need

Pictured above are are Vice-Principal Matt Armstrong (left) and Head Chef Graham Anderson in the kitchen at OTSS.

On September 2, students in the OCDSB returned to school after summer break. At Ottawa Technical Secondary School, Head Chef Graham Anderson and Vice-Principal Matt Armstrong launched a new Free Lunch Program to ensure that all students who don’t have a lunch are provided with one at no cost. After all, a hungry student is just not ready to learn and do their best work. OTSS is asking for support from individuals and businesses in our community to make the Free Lunch Program a success, and to ensure that no student is going hungry. Here is how the program works:

A $50 donation = a free lunch every day for 1 month
A $250 donation = a free lunch every day for 1 semester (5 months)
A $500 donation = a free lunch every day for the whole school year (10 months)

All donations to the Free Lunch Program are tax deductible. All lunches are prepared in the kitchen at OTSS under the supervision of Chef Anderson. The prep work and cooking is done by students enrolled in the school’s Hospitality program who are working towards their high school diploma. If you are interested in supporting the Free Lunch Program at OTSS, please contact [email protected] to get the donation link and to have all of your questions answered. Matt is getting the program started with a donation of $1,000 which will provide 2 students with a free lunch every day for the 2025-26 school year. Thank you for supporting students in your community.

Vanier BIA AKOUSTIK at St. Charles Market - Sept. 17

Join the Vanier BIA this summer for AKOUSTIK, a FREE outdoor live music event at the St. Charles Market at the corner of Beechwood Avenue and St. Charles Street. Live music, warm evenings, and local talent—this free outdoor concert series brings the rhythm of summer to Vanier from July to September. Enjoy takeout from your favourite local spots with special AKOUSTIC meal deals! For details and updates, please visit vanierbia.com/akoustik.

Wednesdays 6pm – 8pm • St. Charles Market
Dates: September 17

Rock the Block in Manor Park - Sept. 12

Manor Park Community Council presents: ROCK THE BLOCK 2025

5:30 - 7:30 PM - Rock the Block
7:30 - 9:00 PM - Outdoor Movie

Gather up your family, friends and neighbours - and head over to the Manor Park sports field at 100 Thornwood Road on Friday, September 12 at 5 pm. Bring your camping chairs, cozy blankets and stay for the outdoor movie @ 7:30 pm. Free admission. All welcome. Food, drink, etc. for purchase. Details: Facebook

Ottawa Family Cinema presents The Princess Bride - Sept. 13

Get ready for an unforgettable family movie afternoon with Rob Reiner's beloved fairy tale adventure, The Princess Bride, that's equal parts romance comedy and swashbuckling action. The movie will be presented Sept. 13 at 2 pm at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard. This screening is free for members of Ottawa Family Cinema or for non-members: $7 in advance and $9 at the door. For more information, visit www.familycinema.ca.

Ottawa Walk for Pulmonary Fibrosis - meet at 1 Donald Street in Overbrook - Sept. 13

The inaugural Ottawa Walk for Pulmonary Fibrosis takes place September 13, in Overbrook (meet at 1 Donald Street), from 9 am to 2 pm. Led by the Ottawa Patient Support Group, you are invited to walk to honour loved ones, connect with others who understand, and raise awareness for pulmonary fibrosis in your own community. We'll be walking a 5km loop. Feel free to join us for part of the loop, go around as many times as you'd like— or come sit and relax and cheer others on! We'll be there rain or shine so be sure to dress for the weather. There will be a post-walk picnic and BBQ. For details and to register, please visit p2p.onecause.com/cpffwalks/event/ottawa-walk-for-pf Pulmonary fibrosis is a rare, progressive lung disease affecting many Canadians, and its impact is deeply felt by families across our city.

Beechwood Cemetery Guided Tours

If you've been eager to explore Ottawa’s own National Cemetery, now’s the perfect time. The Beechwood Stroll, a free volunteer‑led historical walking tour, has unveiled new dates and a redesigned route that divides the cemetery into East and West halves. Rain or shine, this engaging 1.5–2 hour stroll is wheelchair accessible—and ideal for history buffs, families, and curious locals alike.

Upcoming Western Tours:

Eastern Tour:

Beechwood Bite Tour:

Sunday, September 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM - This Beechwood Bite will take tour goers to some of Canada's greatest poets. The Beechwood Cemetery Bite sized tours are themed guided tours through Beechwood, the National Cemetery of Canada. These short and specialized tours are for those who love a good theme and are passionate for learning about history

Donald Street ASE Site Construction (Frances → Telford)

Beginning the week of September 15, 2025, the City’s project CP1001 — Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) — will start construction along Donald Street, between Frances Street and Telford Avenue. These enhancements are part of Ottawa’s broader efforts to improve road safety through Automated Speed Enforcement in designated Community Safety Zones and school zones.

What you need to know:

Two-way traffic will be maintained throughout construction.
Sidewalk closure on the south side of Donald Street during the work. A signed pedestrian detour will be in place directing pedestrians to use the north sidewalk.
Minor traffic impacts expected, including possible delays; businesses and residents have received advance notice via mailed Construction Notices.
The ASE site is one of several new locations in 2025 proposed under City-approved ASE expansion

Beers and Bites - Sept. 18

Following the success of the relaunch of the Vanier Museopark's beers & bites, they invite you to a second edition on Thursday, September 18, from 6 to 8 pm, at the Vanier Sugar Shack. Our guest brewery will be Dominion City Brewing Co., and tickets are $35 per person. Details and tickets: museoparc.ca/en/evenement/beer-and-bites

New Edinburgh Neighbourhood Sale - Sept. 20

The New Edinburgh Neighbourhood Sale will take place this year on Saturday, September 20 from 8:00 am until 12:00 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 Fieldhouse at 203 Stanley Avenue will be a busy sales centre since the weekly market coincides with the neighbourhood sale. For details, please visit Eventbrite.

Comedy at the Fieldhouse - Sept. 20

Live standup comedy at the New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse. Join your neighbours on Saturday, September 20, from 8 to 10 pm, for an evening of gut-busting entertainment featuring some of Ottawa’s best professional and up-and-coming comics. Headliner: Brendan McKeigan (Just for Laughs, Great Outdoors Comedy Festival, Sirius XM) Details and tickets: Eventbrite

Author book signing in New Edinburgh - Sept. 20

Matthew Sancton, federal public servant and Ward 13 resident, released a children’s book on August 19. The Ripple Effect: How Small Actions Can Change the World is a rhyming and beautifully illustrated story that shows kids how even the smallest good deed can create ripples that change the world for the better. The book is dedicated to his niece and nephews and it was developed in collaboration with Alyse Mercey, an Ottawa-based illustrator. You can find Matthew at the Beechwood Market (203 Stanley Ave.) on September 20. A copy is also available at the St. Laurent branch of the Ottawa Public Library (515 Coté St.). Further details can be found at: linktr.ee/msancton.

Army Run - Sept 21

The Canada Army Run will cause road closures in downtown Ottawa on Sunday, September 21, 2025.

Army Run 2025 details

Date: Sunday, September 21, 2025.
Location: The event takes place in downtown Ottawa, with the start line near City Hall and the finish line at the National War Memorial.

Expected road closures

Check out the Canada Army Run Interactive Map for a full list of road closures and traffic disruptions.

https://racepoint.ca/maps/armyrun.html

For the most current information, monitor the official Canada Army Run website at armyrun.ca.

Cleaning the Capital - LeBoutillier Park - Sept. 23

Join us for a park cleanup as part of the Cleaning the Capital campaign! On Tuesday, September 23 Councillor King and his office will be hosting a cleanup project at LeBoutillier Park from 4-6PM. Bring your friends and family for an opportunity to create a cleaner, greener community! Rain date: Thursday, September 25 - 4-6PM

The Council on Aging in Ottawa Walk of Ages - Sept. 27

Saturday, September 27, 2025 | 10 am – 2 pm
Sports Field – Rideau Community Hub | 815 St. Laurent Blvd. | Old Rideau High School

Join the Council on Aging of Ottawa for a free, family-friendly event celebrating aging, movement, music, and community across generations. Enjoy accessible walking/rolling routes, a classic car show, live music, fun activities for all ages, community booths, and a cash BBQ with Halal and vegetarian options. Learn more: walk-of-ages-2025

CWCLN Creative Expressions: New Beginnings - September 27

Now in its 4th year, CWCLN's Creative Expressions returns as a beloved space for reflection, creativity, and community — rooted in care, culture, and connection.

This year’s theme, New Beginnings, invites Black and racialized women and femmes into a 7-week creative wellness journey that blends artistic exploration with personal growth.

Each week offers something new: from crafting sun catchers and exploring the meaning behind your name, to journaling, movement, and flag-making. Whether you're reconnecting with your creative self or simply looking for a space to be held — this is for you.

Program begins September 27th, 2025
Held in person: 815 St. Laurent Blvd, (Ottawa)
Limited spaces available
Register here: https://forms.gle/rp5rMNssZ6yVojnf8

Heritage Ottawa 2025 Walking Tour in New Edinburgh - Sept. 28

Explore the history and heritage of some of Ottawa's most interesting neighbourhoods with Heritage Ottawa's knowledgeable tour guides! For tickets and details: shop.heritageottawa.org/en/heritage-ottawa-walking-tours

New Edinburgh - Sept. 28 at 2 pm. Depart from the Fraser Schoolhouse, 62 John Street (Janet Uren will be your guide.)

Emerging Lives Initiative Introduces the "Business Meets Tech" program - September 29

Create, Code and Cash out: Youth Innovation for the Digital Age

Got a tech dream but don't know where to start? Already running a tech business but stuck? No idea yet but curious about the tech world? No matter where you are, Business Meets Tech is your launchpad to success! Learn. Connect. Build. Grow.

Location: Incubator 13 (Room 124), RRCRC, 815 St. Laurent Blvd

Date/Time: September 29, 4-7pm

Cost: free

Registration: https://emerginglivesinitiative.org/BMT/

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Ottawa Public Library

Date: Monday, September 30, 2025 | Time:10 am – 5 pm

Location: St-Laurent Branch – 515 Côté Street, Ottawa

On September 30, the St-Laurent Branch of the Ottawa Public Library (OPL) will be one of seven locations open to the public to recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (NDTR). Together, we will honour the experiences, resilience, and contributions of Indigenous Peoples across Canada.

Events & Activities at St-Laurent Branch:

Learning & Action Space: Engage with interactive and educational activities centered on Indigenous knowledge and perspectives.
Take-home Heart Garden (Sept 22–30): Create paper hearts with wildflower seeds to honour Indigenous lives lost to the residential school system.
Film Screenings: Indigenous short films from the National Film Board of Canada, on loop 10 am–4:30 pm (Etlinisigu’niet, Les enfants perdus, Sisters & Brothers, Stories Are in Our Bones, Christmas at Moose Factory, The Amendment, Holy Angels).
Indigenous Peoples Atlas of Canada: Canadian Geographic staff will present and guide map-based activities at St-Laurent Branch from 12:30–2:00 pm.

Activities are available in English, French, and several Indigenous languages, with a focus on Anishinaabemowin.

More information available here .

Networking Breakfast in Celebration of Global Peer Support Day -October 16

Hosted by: Canadian Women of Colour Leadership Network (CWCLN)
Date: Thursday, October 16, 2025 | Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM EST
Location: Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Blvd

Event Overview

Join CWCLN for a Networking Breakfast of reflection, recognition, and relationship-building as we officially launch our Peer Support Collective and Community of Practice. This gathering brings together facilitators, community leaders, organizational allies, and care workers to uplift the people doing the work, celebrate the impact of culturally grounded support models, and build momentum for what comes next.

This event is held in celebration of Global Peer Support Day — an annual recognition that takes place each October to honour the power of peer support in transforming lives and communities. It acknowledges the wisdom, care, and leadership of those with lived experience who offer connection, advocacy, and healing to others navigating similar paths. The day celebrates both formal and informal peer support efforts around the world and recognizes the importance of this work in building compassionate and resilient systems of care.

This event honours the emotional, relational, and often invisible labour behind peer-informed care — particularly in the hands of Black and racialized communities. Through storytelling, shared wisdom, and meaningful conversation, we aim to strengthen connections and lay the foundation for a community of practice that is trauma-informed, values-based, and built to last.

Whether you are a peer facilitator, clinical or community care provider, nonprofit leader, allied health professional, or system partner — your voice matters in shaping this space. We invite individuals with lived experience working in health and healing spaces, those with a personal or professional interest in peer support, representatives from community health centres, nonprofit organizations, and clinical providers. Guest speakers will share insights and strategies, and participants will help shape the future of this growing community.

Who Should Attend

Individuals with lived experience offering support in their communities
Trained peer facilitators, mental health navigators, and wellness practitioners
Community workers supporting youth, families, or racialized populations
Health and social service professionals working in trauma-informed or person-centered care
Staff working in hospitals, clinics, or community health settings
Equity and wellness staff within educational or institutional environments
Mental health advocates, cultural leaders, and care workers
People supporting systems change, equity, or relationship-centered approaches
Allies and champions of lived experience leadership and care models
Those interested in deepening collaboration across community and clinical spaces

This Networking Breakfast is Free and open to anyone committed to care work, equity, and peer-informed practice — whether you hold formal roles or informal wisdom, work in community or clinical settings, or are just beginning to explore this path. You are welcome here.

REGISTER HERE

Take the Tour! Heat Pumps in Overbrook

Don't miss out on the Tour of Heat Pumps in Overbrook on Sunday October 5 at 9:30 AM! Get your questions answered and speak to Ottawa residents about their experience with heat pumps.
Sign up for this free event in Eventbrite via the QR code in the poster above!

See Eventbrite for more details and to get tickets. #Overbrook #HeatPumps #Tour #CommunityEvent 🏡🌿

V-PASE Research Study – Free Online Seated Exercise Program

Physical therapy researchers at the Bruyère Health Research Institute, collaborating with the University of British Columbia,
invite people living with stroke for more than 6 months and who have walking and standing issues to participate in a FREE online seated exercise study provided via Zoom.
The V-PASE exercise program is 60 minutes per session, 3x/week for 10 weeks.

For more information: email [email protected] or call (613) 562-6262 ext. 1419

City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities

City of Ottawa – New Weekly Round-Up Newsletter

In response to valuable resident feedback, the City of Ottawa is launching the City News weekly round-up. This newsletter will provide you with an easy-to-read summary of the week’s important news and updates, as well as essential information during emergencies.

Designed for those who want to stay informed without the clutter, the City News weekly round-up complements the daily City News emails, offering a more efficient way to keep up with the most relevant developments in Ottawa.

To receive this helpful resource directly in your inbox, or to change your preferences, sign up today: eSubscriptions sign up form | City of Ottawa

Fuelling Ottawa Students for Success

Every school day, the Ottawa Network for Education serves an average of 17,633 students – that’s over 3 million meals and snacks every school year, but now the need is greater than ever. Through the #BreakfastMatters campaign, ONFE aiming to raise $30,000 by October 1 to ensure no child starts their day hungry. And right now, the Senators Community Foundation is matching all donations dollar-for-dollar, doubling your impact! Donate today: onfe-rope.ca/breakfast-matters

Equity and Inclusion in the Arts Fund - deadlines Sept. 10 and Oct. 22

The Cultural funding support unit at the City of Ottawa manages programs that support arts, heritage, and cultural activities that highlight the diversity of Ottawa’s communities. The Equity and inclusion in the arts fund aims to reduce barriers and advance artistic expression within Indigenous and equity-seeking communities by providing opportunities for self-expression, capacity building, visibility and celebration. This fund has two categories of project funding available to eligible individuals

Seed award category: Micro-grant for individuals from Indigenous and equity seeking communities.
- Deadline: September 10 by 4 pm
- Contact: Yasmina Proveyer
Grow grant category: Project funding for individuals and organizations that are from or support Indigenous and/or equity seeking communities.

- - Deadline: October 22 by 4 pm
  - Contact: Marie-Christine Feraud

Fall Drop & Swap Pop-Up – Sept. 13

Give your gently used fall and winter items a second life. Join the free Drop & Swap Pop-Up on Saturday, September 13, from 10 am to 2 pm at Jim Durrell Recreation Centre, 1265 Walkley Road. Bring it, swap it, take home something new-to-you. More details: ottawa.ca/WasteReduction.

Accepting:

- Heavy blankets
- Winter sporting gear
- Dish sets
- Canning supplies
- Matched Tupperware
- Back-to-school kitchenware and small appliances
- Knitting/crochet supplies
- DVDs, DVD players
- Halloween costumes (kids and adults)
- Children’s winter outdoor clothing
- Holiday decorations (fall/winter/Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa etc.)

O-Train Line 1 service adjustments in September and October

O-Train Line 1 service will be adjusted on specific days from September 13 to October 5 due to East Extension work and maintenance activities. R1 bus service will operate during impacts to Line 1. For the full maintenance schedule, please visit: www.octranspo.com. Regular train service will resume on Monday, October 6. Signage will be placed at Line 1 stations. Staff will be at key locations to provide support during full-day closures. Use the Travel Planner or Transit for travel planning assistance.

The 10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan Refresh - Open houses & info session

The 10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan is undergoing a mid-point refresh to assess progress and ensure it continues to meet the community’s changing needs. To get involved, attend a virtual information session, or stop by an open house for an in-person discussion.

Virtual information session
Wednesday, September 10, 6:30 to 8 pm
This session includes a Q&A and plan updates.
Register via Zoom: ottawa-ca.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rtgArmM-TNiNhUnTMZ4elA

In-person open houses
Drop-in, no registration required:

Wednesday, September 17, 6 to 8 pm, Jim Durrell Recreation Centre
Thursday, September 18, 6 to 8 pm, Tom Brown Arena
Thursday, September 25, 4:30 to 6:30 pm, CardelRec Recreation Centre

Visit the project page for more details.

New Zoning Bylaw Update - Final Draft to be released Sept. 8; Open houses Sept. 17, 23 & 25

The City of Ottawa will release the third and final draft of the new Zoning By-law on September 8, 2025. A 28-day public consultation period will follow, ending on October 8, 2025. Residents are invited to learn more about how the new Zoning By-law will shape growth in Ottawa at several upcoming events:

- - Virtual Open Houses: September 17 and September 25
  - Statutory Open House (in-person): September 23 at the EY Centre

No registration required for the in-person Open House. Registration for the virtual events will be available on the new Zoning By-law Engage Ottawa page two weeks beforehand. Additional details—including project timelines and key topics—will be shared in an Information Previously Distributed (IPD) report at the Planning and Housing Committee meeting on September 3.

Fall Volunteer Expo - Sept. 19

It’s time for Volunteer Ottawa’s fall Volunteer Expo! This twice-annual free event is a great way to find a volunteer role. Speak with representatives from dozens of charities and non-profits and learn about their mission and how you could help. Apply to positions right at the Expo or apply later online. Details: volunteerottawa.ca/events/calendar/expo

Friday, September 19, 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Ron Kolbus Lakeside Centre, 102 Greenview Ave

The City of Ottawa is considering rules to provide for safe access to places of worship and religious centres, schools, daycares, health care facilities, and care homes when demonstrations are occurring nearby. In other cities, these types of rules are often called “bubble zones.” Also known as “vulnerable social infrastructure,” these spaces serve communities, at-risk populations, and other people who may be vulnerable. When demonstrations are occurring nearby, visitors to these facilities may feel intimidated, believing they are unable to safely access the building or use its services. City staff need your feedback on how demonstrations may be impacting access to these facilities. Share your thoughts and experiences with us through the Engage Ottawa questionnaire until Monday, September 29. Your responses will help determine how a Vulnerable Social Infrastructure By-law could work in Ottawa while also respecting the protections under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms for peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.

Backgrounder: Preparing for Ottawa’s Rental Renovation Licence By-law

The City of Ottawa is exploring a Rental Renovation Licence By-law to ensure tenants are not unfairly displaced under the pretense of repairs or renovations.
The proposed by-law would require landlords to prove that tenants must vacate for legitimate work, helping to protect housing affordability and stability.
Public engagement will begin this fall, with final recommendations expected in spring 2026.

Learn more at ottawa.ca.

Update from OPH

Back-to-school: OPH shares info for children's vaccines

Ottawa Public Health is reminding families to take precautions to help prevent the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases by ensuring their children and youth are up to date with their routine vaccines. Keeping your child’s vaccinations up to date is one of the most effective ways to protect them from serious illnesses like pertussis (whooping cough) and measles which have been re-appearing in our community. This fall, OPH will be reviewing student immunization records and sending letters to parents and guardians of students born in 2008 and 2018 whose records are not in compliance with the Immunization of Schools Pupils Act. 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.

Ottawa Police Update

New type of distraction theft targets seniors

The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is warning residents of a new type of distraction theft targeting seniors across the city. In these thefts, seniors are being approached by the suspects in public and asked for directions. Once the suspects get close, they place a necklace around the victim’s neck as a “thank you gift.” In the process of giving the necklace, the suspects remove the victim’s jewelry. The OPS has received approximately 70 reports of distraction thefts city-wide so far this year, with 62 of those occurring between April 1 and September 2. This newer variation of this theft has been reported 50 times in 2025, with 20 of those reports filed since June. For details on how to protect yourself, please visit ottawapolice.ca.

Insurance Information Procedures Following Collisions

The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is clarifying its procedures regarding the exchange of driver insurance information in traffic collisions, particularly those involving vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians. Following a collision, officers facilitate the exchange of insurance information at the scene and provide a case number for insurance purposes.

When a person is seriously injured and transported to the hospital, the exchange may not occur immediately. Officers will provide the case number and relevant details as soon as possible.

Individuals directly involved in a collision do not need to submit a Freedom of Information request to obtain the other driver’s insurance details.
An FOI is only required for the full police report.

September 12, 2025 Newsletter

A Message from Councillor King

Your Councillor in the Community

Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities

City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities

Update from OPH

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