Happy New Year!

We hope you have had the chance to take in the beautiful lights in Richmond's Memorial Park!

We hope you have had the chance to take in the beautiful lights in Richmond's Memorial Park!

Happy New Year Rideau-Goulbourn! As we embark on a new year, I do so with new responsibilities at City Hall. In December, Council approved the roles and responsibilities for the new term of council. After serving last term as Chair of the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, I had the privilege of being named the Chair of the Environment Committee. Subsequently, I brought forward a Notice of Motion to change the name of that committee to the Standing Committee on Water, Waste and Environmental Protection. The intent is to ensure that the name of the committee reflects the broad mandate of the committee and its key priorities.

As for other responsibilities, I will continue to sit on Agriculture & Rural Affairs Committee, Finance & Economic Development Committee and the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority. I will also be joining the Ottawa Community Housing Board and the Planning Committee.

2019 Town Hall Series

In the coming weeks, our office will be hosting a series of town hall meetings to help kick off the term of Council. We will host these meetings in Burritt’s Rapids, Pierce’s Corners, Kars, North Gower, Stittsville, Richmond, Munster, Ashton, Manotick, Country Club Village, Fallowfield Village and in the Quinn’s Pointe community in Barrhaven. These meetings will take place between January 9th and March 5th.

The intent of these meetings will be to look at what issues are present currently in our communities, what priorities we want to focus on and any other matters that residents feel requires our attention. It is also an opportunity to discuss how best we can improve communication. We have a number of new initiatives we are going to bring forward in order to better serve our residents. Included in that will be drop in meetings where residents can stop by and visit with our team. We will rotate these meetings around the ward every two weeks.

For the Town Hall meetings, we have the following meetings scheduled:

  • January 9th: Canadian Golf & Country Club, 7:00pm

  • January 12th: St. Patrick’s Church, 10:00am

  • January 15th: Manotick Arena, 7:00pm

  • January 19th: Burritt’s Rapids Community Hall, 10:00am

  • January 23rd: Munster Community Centre, 7:00pm

  • January 28th: North Gower Client Service Centre, 7:00pm

  • February 4th: St. Benedict Elementary School, 7:00pm

  • February 6th: Ashton Christ Church, 7:00pm

  • February 13th: Kars Recreation Centre, 7:00pm

  • February 19th: St. Philip’s Parish Hall, 7:00pm

  • February 26th: Marlborough Community Hall, 7:00pm

  • March 5th: Goulbourn Town Hall, 7:00pm

I very much look forward to these meetings, as does our team. I hope you will be able to attend.

 *****

If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491. For information on Rideau-Goulbourn issues, please visit RideauGoulbourn.ca.

Park Updates, McBean Street Bridge Replacement & the Stonebridge Development Proposal

Richmond Bridge drawings.jpg

It is a busy year for Rideau-Goulbourn parks. Blue Rock Park in Kars is currently undergoing renewal while staff work toward the renewal of the play equipment at Richmond Lions Park, in addition to the planned outdoor rink to be located there this year. Planning also continues on Sarah McCarthy Park in Richmond and Ivy & Gordon Scharf Park in Manotick. All the while on Fairmile Road, we inch closer and closer to being able to add play equipment after the acquisition of some land and the progress on a road closure.

With all of that going on, the City, working with Councillor Michael Qaqish’s office and our Rideau-Goulbourn team, have just embarked on an update to the Beryl Gaffney Park concept plan culminating in some new investments in the park. We had our public open house last week with over 60 residents in attendance. In the coming weeks, we will formalize the method for feedback. Please stay tuned to this column and that of the Manotick Village & Community Association for more information.

McBean Street Bridge

The most significant infrastructure project to hit Richmond in some time has begun with the reconstruction of the McBean Street Bridge. In recent weeks, preparatory works began on site. These included some tree removal and the relocation of Bell lines. Aecon Construction has been contracted to carry out the bridge replacement project. The Commence Work Order was issued on June 20th and their completion date is scheduled for December 19th, 2019.

While the project itself will take up to 18 months, the impact on heavy vehicles and transit should only be approximately six months. As soon as one side of the bridge is complete and open, that newly constructed side will not have the weight restrictions any longer. For all other traffic, including cyclists and pedestrians, one lane of traffic will be available, except for a couple of occasions where a full closure may be necessary. The first full closure could occur within the next couple of months but the contractor is aware of significant Richmond events, such as the Fair and the Santa Claus parade and will ensure those are not impacted negatively.

If you happen to be a transit rider and frequently use the 283, there is a detour in place for the duration of the first phase of construction. The detour has been designed in a way to minimize the delay on the fewest number of riders. Simply put, riders from Munster and those who live on the South Carleton side of the Jock River will experience a longer commute. I thank those riders for their patience as we undertake this important project.

Stonebridge Development Proposal

In recent weeks, some of you may have heard my name being thrown around regarding Mattamy’s proposal to alter the Stonebridge Golf Course and build 158 additional units on the golf course property. The reason why I am mentioned is quite interesting as the development application actually falls entirely within Rideau-Goulbourn’s ward boundary. Similarly, there is a street in Stonebridge called Stromness Private, which also falls within Rideau-Goulbourn.

When the current boundaries were created in 2005, holes five through eight were considered to be outside the urban boundary. The urban boundary set the ward boundary lines. With the urban boundary changes that were approved in and around 2010, certain lands in Stittsville and Barrhaven that I now represent became developable, including this portion of Stonebridge. The intention is to correct these lines in 2019 with a ward boundary review. In the meantime, I will be working with Councillors Jan Harder and Michael Qaqish on the issues that impact our Barrhaven consituents.

*****

If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491. For information on Rideau-Goulbourn issues, please visit RideauGoulbourn.ca.

City of Ottawa's Vehicle-for-Hire Accessibility Fund, TD Park Grant and Other Updates

Rideau-Goulbourn was home to multiple Winter Carnivals including Fallowfield Village's Annual Winter Carnival, Manotick's Shiverfest, Munster Winter Carnival and North Gower's 56th Winter Carnival. Thank you to Grace Thrasher from the Manotick Village & Community Association for the photo from Shiverfest and to Jessica Breckenridge from the Munster Community Association for the photo from the Munster Winter Carnival. For more photos from Winter Carnivals in Rideau-Goulbourn, visit: www.facebook.com/rideaugoulbourn.

Rideau-Goulbourn was home to multiple Winter Carnivals including Fallowfield Village's Annual Winter Carnival, Manotick's Shiverfest, Munster Winter Carnival and North Gower's 56th Winter Carnival. Thank you to Grace Thrasher from the Manotick Village & Community Association for the photo from Shiverfest and to Jessica Breckenridge from the Munster Community Association for the photo from the Munster Winter Carnival. For more photos from Winter Carnivals in Rideau-Goulbourn, visit: www.facebook.com/rideaugoulbourn.

The City of Ottawa is asking residents to weigh-in on how to spend more than $450,000 in the Vehicle-for-Hire Accessibility Fund. Residents can have their say by completing an online survey. The Vehicle-for-Hire Accessibility Fund Consultation Questionnaire is available on ottawa.ca from January 24 to February 16.

Money in the Vehicle-for-Hire Accessibility Fund is generated through a voluntary surcharge paid by private transportation companies (PTC), such as Uber Canada. The surcharge was implemented because many PTCs cannot currently accommodate persons who use mobility devices including power wheelchairs and scooters.

Money from the Vehicle-for-Hire Accessibility Fund will be spent to support accessible transportation in the city of Ottawa. These programs and services may include:

  • accessible transportation services provided directly by wheelchair accessible vehicles such as OC Transpo, Para Transpo and taxis
  • City and community-based programs and services that support or enhance the ability of persons of all ages with physical disabilities who require the use of a mobility device to move around the city regardless of the mode(s) of transportation used

In order to receive funding from the Vehicle-for-Hire Accessibility Fund, programs and services must also be:

  • accessible
  • safe
  • available
  • affordable
  • timely
  • sustainable

An information package that includes background, details and definitions of all these terms can be found on the public consultation page of ottawa.ca. Please note that I have encouraged Rural Ottawa South Support Services to seek funding through this Fund to help with their transportation efforts. Similar suggestions from residents in the rural area would go a long way.

Barnsdale Road & Prince of Wales Drive

As a reminder, there is an open house upcoming to discuss plans for a roundabout at the intersection of Barnsdale Road & Prince of Wales Drive. Construction is tentatively scheduled to start in 2019 pending budget approval.

The open house is scheduled for Thursday, February 15th from 7:00pm to 9:00pm and will be held at the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority building at 3889 Rideau Valley Drive. For more information, please visit www.rideaugoulbourn.ca/barnsdaleroundabout. Any comments may be sent to Kunjan Ghimire via email at [email protected] or by phone at 613-580-2424, ext. 21685. Comment on this open house should be submitted by Tuesday, February 20, 2018.

TD Park Grant

The TD Park People grant program was created to support community groups to host events in urban parks or public green spaces. Through this grant, TD hopes to lay the groundwork for long-term sustainable community partnerships in parks across each of the selected cities (Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and Ottawa). Groups who demonstrate the ability to successfully organize and host events, as well as sustain their group beyond this grant cycle, are encouraged to apply.

Their expectation is that successful applicants host at least three events between April and December 2018 with each event open to all members of the larger community. Eligible groups include volunteer-based park groups, local agencies, resident associations and non-profits that are active in their local parks.

Eligible expenses include honoraria for volunteers, event materials, supplies and equipment, printing of promotional materials with provided templates. Essentially, any reasonable event expense can be covered by the grant.

To apply, visit https://parkpeople.ca/parkgrants/. Applications are due by the end of the day on March 5, 2018. Funding decisions will be made in April, with cheques sent in May.

Richmond 200 Events

Richmond is currently celebrating its bicentennial. A variety of exciting events have been planned for 2018, including but not limited to:

  • Major Events Weekend (June 15-18, 2018)
  • Richmond’s Got Talent
  • Canoe Race
  • Curling Bonspiel
  • Historical Display
  • Genealogy Workshop
  • Car Rally/ Scavenger Hunt
  • Fashion Show

I am also currently working with the Potsdam Junior Hockey Association and Richmond Munster Minor Hockey Association on celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the original Silver Stick Tournament that was held in Richmond in February 1958. Games are tentatively scheduled between the two clubs for Sunday, February 25th between 10:00 am and 1:00 pm followed by the Richmond Royals Junior B game vs. Winchester Hawks. We are still confirming which teams will be playing.

For more information on these events, please visit: richmond200.ca.

Community Dancing in Manotick

 Interested in a fun, interactive session of dance, laughter & music? Join the Ever Hopeful Stringband and caller Pippa Hall for a family-friendly, alcohol-free evening of community dancing, including circles, squares and contras on Friday, February 23rd from 7:00pm to 9:30pm at the Manotick United Church. Each dance is taught and the whole family is invited. The evening begins with simple dances, followed by dances that build on skills as the evening progresses. Adults are $10, children aged 12-18 are $5 and anyone under 12 is free. There is a family max of $20. For more information, please call 613-692-4576 or visit http://dance.manotick.net.

Shrove Tuesday

On February 13th, from 5:00pm to 7:30pm at the Alfred Taylor Recreation Centre, come and enjoy a hearty supper of pancakes and syrup, ham, sausages, baked beans, fruit salad and homemade pies, with coffee, tea, juice or water. Cost is just $10 per adult, $5 children 6-12, and children 5 and under free. This supper is hosted by Holy Trinity Anglican Church, North Gower. For more info, call 613-489-2207.

Munster United Church 7th Annual Spaghetti Dinner

The Munster United Church invites you to their 7th Annual Spaghetti Dinner on Saturday, February 24th between 4:30pm and 7:30pm. Your spaghetti dinner includes a Caesar salad, rolls, ice cream, cookies and coffee or tea. Gluten free pasta is also available.

There is no charge for the dinner but the church will be accepting donations. Take out is also available. The Munster United Church’s youth group will be on hand collecting tips for Big Sky Ranch.

*****

If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491. For information on Rideau-Goulbourn issues, please visit RideauGoulbourn.ca.

City of Ottawa's 2018 Budget

2018 Budget.jpg

On December 13th, City Council approved the 2018 budget. This budget maintains the predictability of the previous seven budgets in that it focuses on priorities that matter the most and carries a 2% property tax increase. You likely heard talk of a proposed 2.5% increase but that was withdrawn following the announcement that the City had a surplus for the second straight year and $10M of that surplus would be dedicated to infrastructure renewal.

In Parks & Recreation, planning and consultation will be undertaken for improvements to Beryl Gaffney Park using the master plan for that plan and the $560,000 identified in the budget. Blue Rock Park, in Kars, will see improvements, as will King’s Grant Park and Richmond Lions Park and Gordon & Ivy Scharf Park in Manotick. New parks will be created in the form of Lela Scharf Park, Mud Creek Park and the Spring Pond Parkette, all in Manotick. Also in Manotick, a new park is planned for construction in the new Riverwalk development. Sarah McCarthy Park will be constructed in Richmond. The total funding commitment for these parks, using 2017 and 2018 budget dollars, is $1.7M.

When it comes to traffic improvements, planning is slated for the intersections of Prince of Wales Drive & Bankfield Road, Prince of Wales Drive & Barnsdale Road, First Line Road & Bankfield Road and Rideau Valley Drive & Barnsdale Road. Previously budgeted works are also expected to be carried out this year at Moodie Drive and Fallowfield Road.

The biggest issue across the City, and in every other municipality for that matter, is infrastructure renewal. For 2018, Rideau-Goulbourn will see the resurfacing of Rideau Valley Drive South as well as a small portion of Fallowfield Road around Moodie Drive. Another major renewal project for 2018 is the McBean Street Bridge. There will also be many culvert replacements throughout the ward. In cases like Rideau Valley Drive North, these culvert replacements are the precursor to full resurfacing. The previously mentioned $10M injection into renewal will be discussed early in the new year as recommendations are presented to the Finance & Economic Development Committee on how to allocate those funds.

In other areas, the 2018 budget adds 25 new Ottawa Police officers, 14 new paramedics, $100,000 for rural transportation to be distributed through service agencies, including Rural Ottawa South Support Services. This budget also sees increases to social services spending and increased transit to suburban growth areas as OC Transpo continues to prepare for the opening of LRT in 2018.

If you have any questions about any of the items listed above or anything else on the budget, please do not hesitate to contact me.

North Gower Client Service Centre

Please note that the Client Service Centre in North Gower will be closed on Thursday, December 28th and Thursday, January 4th. Normal hours will resume on Thursday, January 11th. With that said, I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Onward and upward to 2018!

*****

If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491. For information on Rideau-Goulbourn issues, please visit RideauGoulbourn.ca.

Name the Trains Contest & Community Dancing in Manotick

name the train.jpg

Residents in Richmond have likely noticed some activity near Fortune Street and Martin Street. This is the beginning of work along Martin Street to install a new sanitary trunk sewer in order to connect the new housing projects in the Western Development Lands to the existing forcemain in the village. Greenbelt Construction is undertaking the work on behalf of the developer, Caivan Communities. While this is not a City-led construction project, the City does have a project manager that will oversee the work and respond to concerns.

We have been working on the use of Arbuckle Park, off Fortune Street. The contractor is in the process of getting a culvert installed in order to access the Martin Street road allowance from the opposite side of the municipal drain and to set up their site office on that side, away from the park. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact my office.

Name the Trains Contest

To help get ready for the launch of the O-Train Confederation Line in 2018, the City of Ottawa is looking for the best train name ideas from our city’s next generation of transit users.

The City is inviting children and youth, who are 16 years of age and under, to name the 34 O-Train Confederation Line train cars and the 6 O-Train Trillium Line train cars. The Name the Trains Contest will run from November 2nd to December 8th. To enter the contest, please visit octranspo.com/ready4rail.

Here are some details to keep in mind when choosing a name:

  • Names should be short (maximum of 16 characters)
  • Names should be related to trains (or train service) or have a Canadian or Ottawa-related significance
  • Names must fit into one or more of the following 5 categories: people, animals, natural world, culture or history
  • Names should be bilingual or easily translatable (English & French)
  • Names should be friendly (nothing negative, please!), have a pleasant sound and be easy to remember
  • Participants can submit as many separate entries as they wish, but each contest participant can only win once
  • Names cannot be current or future O-Train Confederation or Trillium Line station names

Winners will be notified by email or telephone in 2018 once all entries have been reviewed. For more information, including contest rules and regulations, plus guidelines on how to submit a great train name, please visit octranspo.com/ready4rail.

Community Dancing in Manotick

On Friday, November 24th from 7:00 to 9:30pm at the Manotick United Church, come out and enjoy a fun, interactive session of dance, laughter & music. Join the Ever Hopeful Stringband and caller Pippa Hall for a family-friendly, alcohol-free evening of community dancing, including circles, squares and contras. Each dance is taught and the whole family is invited. The evening begins with simple dances, followed by dances that build on skills as the evening progresses. Admission is $10, $5 for those aged 12-18, and anyone under 12 gets in for free. There is a family maximum admission of $20. For more Information, please call 613-692-4576 or visit http://dance.manotick.net.

*****

If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491. For information on Rideau-Goulbourn issues, please visit RideauGoulbourn.ca.

Phase 2 of Mahogany Development in Manotick

Mahogany Development Phase 2.jpg

In April, residents of Manotick were invited to a workshop hosted by Minto to discuss their upcoming phases of their Mahogany development. On July 10th, they submitted the application for the next step in their project. The draft proposal for Phases 2, 3 and 4 is for a total of 926 residential units and will include open space, parks and a school. The unit count for these phases is consistent with the initial overall development unit count of 1400. In my estimation, the construction start for Phase 2 is still likely two years away.

One substantial change over recent demonstrations of this development is that the school will move from Phase 3 into Phase 2. The school is proposed to be located on Bridgeport Avenue and adjacent to one of the new parks. This set of phasing will bring the development up to the forested area to the west. As a reminder, that forested area was recently acquired by the City of Ottawa and will be preserved as is.

For more information on this application, please visit www.ottawa.ca/devapps. The Planning Rational and Draft Plan of Subdivision are available to view and will help answer any questions you may have. However, you are more than welcome to contact myself or Jeff Ostafichuk on this proposal as well. He can be reached at [email protected].

*****

If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491. For information on Rideau-Goulbourn issues, please visit RideauGoulbourn.ca.

 

5514 Manotick Main, 1353 Scharfgate And Other Ward Updates

5514 Manotick Main Street

Last week, we held the last meeting of the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee until September. While there were only two items on the agenda items from Rideau-Goulbourn, they were both zoning applications within the village of Manotick. 5514 Manotick Main Street, also known as the Falls House property, has been featured prominently in this column for over two years. The proposal, as many of you know, is for a new three storey office/commercial building at the corner of Bridge Street and Manotick Main Street. This replaces the former Falls House that was demolished last fall. The zoning application seeks to realign the zoning of the existing property with a parcel of land that was added to it so that the entire property has a uniform zoning and can meet the parking requirements for development. There are also some minor changes to setbacks and height but the building retains the three storey limit as set out in the Manotick Secondary Plan. In recent months, community leaders have assisted me in refining the design and developing a softer look to the building. While there are still some modifications to be made, the most recent design and background on the property can be found at www.rideaugoulbourn.ca/fallshouse. I encourage you to visit the site and see the updated design.

The owner and the architect are still making refinements in collaboration with various community leaders that have been instrumental in softening the design of the original proposal and creating something that is more in tune with the community’s vision for the village core. Further refinements will include two chamfered corners as well as a hanging clock/sign on the southeast corner of the property.

The wall proposed at the edge of the southeast corner is planned to be built using the existing foundation stones from the Falls House. This will allow the property to front the intersection nicely and will also provide a buffer between the road and proposed patio. It will also provide some uniformity with the two other gateway features at this intersection. Removal of the guard rail will also take away some of the industrial feel of the intersection.

While the zoning application was approved last week, the design will be finalized in the weeks that follow. I want to take this opportunity to thank representatives from the Manotick Village & Community Association, the Manotick Culture, Parks & Recreation Association, the Manotick BIA and the Rideau Township Historical Society for their input throughout this process. We also had two other community leaders assist and I owe a debt of gratitude to them as well. Thanks as well to the community for their input in recent months on this proposal.

The other local item is the 1353 Scharfgate report. This is a development application from Cavanagh and John Gerard Homes in the pre-existing development off of First Line Road. The address is misleading as the current property does not, and will not, have access onto Scharfgate Drive. The development will see McManus Avenue extended through it with the creation of 16 new lots and a park. One of the main issues that came up during consultation was the proposal to build the development with open ditches. Nearby residents were concerned about this lack of conformity with the rest of development. Following this, we were able to work with the developer on achieving that conformity. Therefore, all 16 lots will feature closed ditches.

McLean Bridge Renewal

Work continues to progress on the McLean Bridge Rehabilitation project on the Barnsdale Road in Manotick. Over the last two weeks, the portable temporary traffic control signals (PTTS) were set up and vehicular traffic, pedestrians and cyclists are moving well. The temporary sidewalk on the north side was also installed.

The existing asphalt surface on the south side of the bridge deck was removed and had its surface prepared for new asphalt. The turbidity curtain was placed in the Rideau River. The installation of the turbidity curtain is an environmental protection measure that is required on bridge rehabilitation projects over water.  The re-facing of the pier caps below the bridge deck also started. The old bridge railings on the south side of the bridge have been removed and the suspended platform that allows for worker access has been installed.

Over the next two weeks, the re-facing of the pier caps below the bridge deck will continue and the removal of the old sidewalk on the south side of the bridge will be started.  Next week, work will commence on the removal and replacement of the bridge expansion joints.  

Richmond Forcemain Project

Construction is continuing on the Richmond Forcemain project. Bypass pumping of the Richmond Sewage Pumping Station into lagoon cell ‘C’ has started and will continue until the week of July 24th. This allows for the repairs to the existing forcemain to be carried out. In the coming weeks, there will be localized works along the property line behind the Dallaire Street properties.

The contractor will continue to bring in construction materials to site such as granulars, pipes and fitting materials and they will continue the installation of a granular access road from Eagleson to the west limit of lagoon cell ‘C’. Streets in the construction zone will be monitored daily for construction debris and clean as required.  

If you would like to receive regular updates about this activity, please contact David Brown at [email protected].

Lyme Disease Kits

Ottawa Public Health has been advising Ottawa physicians and the public since April 2017 that all parts of Ottawa should be considered risk areas for Lyme disease. The prevalence of Lyme disease in blacklegged ticks will fluctuate in time and geographically throughout the Ottawa region. However, as mentioned, all of Ottawa is considered a risk area for Lyme disease.

Lyme disease is an infection caused by a bacteria transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. Not all ticks carry Lyme disease. In Ontario, Lyme disease is spread by the bite of a black-legged tick, commonly known as the deer tick. Most humans are infected through the bite of an immature tick called a nymph, which is very small and are most active in the spring. Adult ticks are larger and active during the late summer and fall.

Ottawa Public Health has put together Lyme disease “kits”, which are available for pickup free of charge at the North Gower Client Service Centre for your information, use and distribution. Each “kit” includes a Lyme disease factsheet, which offers details related to the symptoms of Lyme Disease, tick removal processes, testing protocols and ways to prevent tick bites. The kits also include a tick key, which is designed to help remove any tick that may have attached themselves to a person, a family member, friend or pet. The Client Service Centre is only open on Thursdays. If you are interested in receiving a kit, you can also contact Wendy Eberwein at [email protected].

For more information on how to protect yourself and your family, please visit www.ottawa.ca/lymedisease.

Blue Rock Park Renewal

The City is currently working on the design of Blue Rock Park in Kars with the intent on renewing the park in the spring. Unfortunately, due to printing timelines, I wasn’t able to provide as much notice via this column as I would have liked. However, comments are still being accepted until July 14th. You can find out more about the proposed options at www.rideaugoulbourn.ca/blue-rock-park.

*****

If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491. For information on Rideau-Goulbourn issues, please visit RideauGoulbourn.ca.

Dickinson Square Update and Upcoming Town Halls

Our Rideau-Goulbourn Mid-Term Town Hall Series continues on Tuesday, November 15th with our Manotick meeting. As usual, we will cover a number of city-wide issues that have been making the news over the last 20 months. We’ll also focus on local issues. At our Manotick meeting, I will be focusing on a variety of issues but will specifically discuss David Bartlett Park and the Falls House.

Over the past couple of months, I have been having conversations with various community groups regarding the use of David Bartlett Park as well as the parking issues. I have been floating plans for a parking lot expansion as well as the notion of creating an on-leash area on the south end of the park abutting the Bravar Drive properties. While nothing is imminent, we’ll continue this conversation on the 15th.

For the Falls House, I will be discussing the background, the future and showing the virtual tour of the building that was filmed prior to demolition. In addition, we’ll provide updates on other goings on in and around Manotick, including some of the agricultural issues with MPAC and LEAR. These meetings are always general in nature and any topic is up for discussion. The meeting will be at the Manotick Arena beginning at 7:00pm.

After the Manotick Town Hall, we’ll be hosting a meeting at the Kars RA Centre on Wednesday, November 23 at 7:00 pm. The following, and second last meeting, will be in Richmond at the Agricultural Dining Hall on November 30th. This meeting will be a bit different as there will also be a public meeting on the Shea Road development application at 6:00 pm with our town hall to follow. As usual, we will cover a number of city-wide issues that have been making the news over the last 20 months. We’ll also focus on local issues, such as development and infrastructure projects.

Dickinson Square Update

Another topic that we’ll touch on next week is Dickinson Square. Last week, the Finance & Economic Development Committee approved my report that recommended the retention of the Carriage Shed and Dickinson House in City ownership. As many of you know, these properties were purchased alongside four other Dickinson Square properties and placed under the care of the Manotick Mill Quarter Community Development Corporation. Following the retention of the Holloway Property and the sale of the Weaver House, the Ayres Building and the Clapp Property, the MMQCDC was left with just the Carriage Shed and Dickinson House.

The approved report means that these two buildings will remain in the City’s ownership and that the MMQCDC will be dissolved. The next steps will see the City enter into long term agreements with Watson’s Mill and the Rideau Township Historical Society to occupy the buildings.  While we still have some work to do, I just want to take a moment and thank Margot Belanger and Gerald Reasbeck, who have been members of the MMQCDC with me since 2010. I would also like to thank the member groups of Dickinson Square Heritage Management Inc., who have helped advise me throughout the Dickinson Square process. Last, but not least, I’d like to thank former Councillor Glenn Brooks, who helped guide the acquisition of the Dickinson Square properties through Council.

Richmond Library PD Day Program

The Richmond library has a really exciting PD Day program planned for Friday November 18th from 2:00-4:00pm (drop-in). It’s a PD DAY Pop up Makerspace and Lego Block Party.  We will have the pop up 3D printer at the branch!  Children are invited to: 

Get Creative! Test your building ability with our Lego® challenges and participate in our Lego® scavenger hunt! Join in on our community colouring project or explore our makey-makeys and LED-throwies. Check out our 3D printer demonstration to see what you can build at our Imagine Space.

North Gower Library Turns 125!

The North Gower branch of the Ottawa Public Library (OPL) is celebrating its 125th anniversary on Monday, November 14th in style. To mark 125 years of service, the branch is inviting Library customers and the community to dress up in the style of their favourite decade, or to pull from the tickle trunk, to represent the one-and-a-quarter centuries of library services, learning and community connections.

Join your neighbours on November 14th from 7:00pm to 8:30pm to enjoy interactive activities, entertainment, a photo opportunity with Queen Elizabeth in 2D, and refreshments by Dolly Doll Bakery. OPL Board Chair Tim Tierney will join the event to say a few words from 7:30pm – 7:45pm.

The North Gower branch fosters community relationships in many ways, while acting as a catalyst for exploration and discovery. Its local flavour is cultivated by the active surrounding rural community of artists, families, farmers, local businesses and entrepreneurs. The branch has strong links to the artistic community and is the site of a monthly local art display. The recently refurbished branch features a large, colourful mural created by local artist Becky Marr-Johnson.

More information about North Gower’s 125th Anniversary is available on the OPL website. OPL’s North Gower branch is located at 6579 Fourth Line Rd, North Gower, ON K0A 2T0.

Isle in the River Theatre Company

Double Double_Poster_horizontal_8.5x11-page-001.jpg

From November 18th to 20th and from the 25th to the 27th, ITR Theatre Company is presenting a Norm Foster Double-Double. This includes two one-act plays, My Narrator and The Death of Me, at each of the 6 performances at the Osgoode Community Centre. Tickets are available through http://www.itrtheatre.com/ or by calling 613-800-1165 or e-mailing [email protected]. Tickets for the dinner theatres on November 19 and 26 are selling out quickly.

*****

If you have any comments about anything other than No Tractor signs, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491. If you really do want to know more about No Tractor signs, Google “Scott Moffatt No Tractor”.  There is plenty of material out there.

Flu Clinics, Woodlot Rehabilitation Program, and Dickinson House News

While the November 1st Finance & Economic Development Committee meeting will have already taken place by the time you read this, there are two key items on the agenda with relation to Rideau-Goulbourn, specifically Manotick. One is a report that I brought forward that seeks Committee and Council approval to retain Dickinson House and Carriage Shed in City ownership. This would conclude the Manotick Mill Quarter Community Development Corporation process and ensure that Dickinson Square remains as you see it today with Watson’s Mill and the Rideau Township Historical Society calling these two buildings home.

The other item is a land swap that will place the woodlots on the Mahogany lands in City ownership. This is something that came from the OMB decision approving the Minto development in the south end of the village. The woodlots are years away from seeing development occur near them, but this land swap will ensure that these lands are protected from development.  As part of the deal, the City is giving up lands in South Nepean to Minto.

Forcemain Project

On October 25th, a Commence Work Order was issued by the City of Ottawa to Robert Excavating to complete the upgrades to the forcemain project.  As many of you are aware, this is the culmination of nearly two years of planning and consultation

The original forcemain was built in the early 1980’s and is in need of repair. The construction project will involve repairs and modifications to the existing 500mm diameter forcemain, the installation of a new bypass 300mm diameter forcemain to facilitate the repairs, the installation of a new section of 600mm diameter forcemain for the proposed future development within the Village of Richmond, and decommissioning of an abandoned forcemain in the immediate vicinity of the Richmond Sewage Pump Station (RSPS).

This work is tentatively planned to begin any day now and be completed by October 2017. Spot repairs and modifications to the transition couplings, valves and valve accessories will be made at various structures along the existing forcemain between the RSPS and Lagoon Cell C as well as on Eagleson Road between the Jock River crossing and Robertson Road. An abandoned forcemain will also be decommissioned as part of the works and runs from the RSPS from Royal York St and along King St to Chanonhouse Dr. before heading north at Chanonhouse park through adjacent wooded lands prior to reaching the Lagoon site.

Ottawa Public Health Flu Clinics

During the 2015-2016 flu season, Ottawa Public Health (OPH) administered over 10,000 influenza vaccines at community clinics, while it distributed over 379,000 doses of the vaccine across the City through physicians’ offices, pharmacies, long-term care facilities and other vaccine providers. For the 2016-2017 flu season, OPH will again focus on providing access of flu vaccine to the general population through physicians’ offices and pharmacy providers, and outreach to vulnerable populations. As in previous years, OPH will continue to run community-based clinics in areas of low pharmacist / physician coverage.

For the upcoming season, over 170 Ottawa pharmacies will be offering the influenza vaccine.  Many pharmacies are open long hours, and are located throughout the city, making the publicly funded influenza vaccine ever more accessible.  In addition, more than 300 physicians’ offices across the city will be offering the flu vaccine to their patients.

OPH will be offering 12 community clinics in different areas of the city from October 29, 2016 to November 16, 2016, including at the Alfred Taylor Recreation Centre on Thursday, November 10th and at South Carleton High School on Tuesday, November 15th.  Both clinics run from 3:30pm until 7:30pm. Local pharmacies offering flu shots include Rexall, Shoppers Drug Mart and Paul’s Pharmasave in Manotick; Richmond Village Pharmacy and Richmond IDA; and North Gower Pharmacy. The eQuinelle Pharmasave and the Kemptville Shoppers Drug Mart also offer flu shots.

Woodlot Rehabilitation Program

As ash trees continue to decline within the City of Ottawa due to the invasive Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), it is important to address the safety issues and necessary tree removals within our parks and woodlots.

Part of the City’s EAB strategy includes selective park and woodlot rehabilitation; identifying City parks and woodlots with a high percentage of ash to remove unsafe dead, dying or invasive trees, encourage non-ash trees and shrubs with the exception of buckthorn and plant a selection of native tree species.

Many parks and woodlots hold significant plant and wildlife populations and make large contributions to human health and the environment: it is important to manage these significant areas, not only for public safety but also to conserve the many benefits they provide.

This winter, the City of Ottawa will begin removing all dead/dying trees from Beryl Gaffney Park, Ashton Woods and Van Vliet Park. For public safety reasons, identified areas of the park will be closed to the public during the tree removal operations. While most of these are passive parks, maintained areas of the park will be cleared of small woody debris once the snow has melted and conditions are dry enough for equipment access.

All areas subject to tree removal are to be replanted. Reforestation species will include: red maple, sugar maple, silver maple, serviceberry, hackberry, white pine, burr oak, red oak, American elder, white cedar, basswood, nannyberry, large tooth aspen, trembling aspen, dogwood and speckled alder.

Dickinson House News

To commemorate Remembrance Day, you are invited to Dickinson House where there will be a special display featuring the contributions made during WW2  by the late Lt.- Col David L. Fromow  and  Mrs. Barbara Fromo, both long-time residents of Manotick.  The House will be open on weekends from 10:00am to 4:00pm in November, and will be open on November 11th from 10:00am to 4:00pm as well.  Admission is free; as always, donations are welcome.

The Victorian Tea, which is at 2 p.m. on November 5th, is sold out; if you wish to be put on a waiting list, please call 613-692-6455.

*****

If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491.

ARAC returns and Long Island Road

September 3, 2015 - 10:00am in The Chamber at Ben Franklin Place

September 3, 2015 - 10:00am in The Chamber at Ben Franklin Place

After having no meeting in August, the Agriculture & Rural Affairs Committee is back to work on Thursday, September 3rd.  As always, this meeting will take place at Ben Franklin Place in Nepean, beginning at 10:00am.

Agenda items include a presentation from the Carleton 4-H Club titled “The Real Dirt on Farming”; the commemorative naming of the Doug Thompson Pathway (Osgoode); the Ottawa Rural Clean Water Program Review and Renewal; a street closure application for 3128 Moodie Drive (Rideau-Goulbourn); Plan of Subdivision and Zoning By-Law Amendment applications for 1705 Old Prescott Road (Osgoode); as well as two housekeeping items. As per the norm, there will be an “Open Mic” session at the end of committee so if there is anything you’d like the committee to hear, feel free to come out and speak.

Long Island Road

As many of you are now aware, Long Island Road has been resurfaced this summer.  However, since I have recently become the recipient of a form email campaign, I thought I would provide some history on why Long Island was done the way it was and what we can expect going forward.

As far back as 2012, I became aware of two separate projects that impacted Long Island Road.  One was a simple resurfacing, which was scheduled for 2014 and the other was a watermain project scheduled for 2016, approximately.  Long Island Road was a potential route, at that time, for a future backup watermain which would provide a secondary supply to those in Manotick who are currently served by City water.  Not wanting to have Long Island Road torn up twice in less than three years, I worked with staff to twin these projects and potentially expand the scope to include a sidewalk between West Avenue and Bridge Street.

The immediate need for the watermain project was based on future growth in the new Mahogany development, therefore the costs were being front ended by Minto.  Unfortunately, slow growth has pushed back Mahogany Phase 2, thus pushing back the need for the backup watermain.  We became aware of this change in the fall and I immediately began to push for the resurfacing as Long Island Road just couldn’t wait any longer.  However, we were still left with the reality that the watermain would have to be installed at some point, just not in the next five years. 

In January 2015, the Infrastructure Services Department contacted me with their proposed plan for Long Island.  While the Planning & Growth Management Department has targeted Long Island for improved cycling and pedestrian facilities, not much could be accommodated within the 7m existing width.  The solution to that was to do a 5-10 year resurfacing job without fully reconstructing the road as that full reconstruction will occur with the watermain installation.  To obtain the necessary width now to install the proper pedestrian facility would require ditch filling, drainage accommodations, among other things.  These are all issues that will be addressed when the road is reconstructed with the watermain.  We will be able to install a sidewalk at that time.

In the meantime, staff have been able to widen the paved surface out to 7.5m by paving the previously existing gravel shoulder.  What I am working on right now is determining the lane width which is why you haven’t seen any painted lines yet.  The intent is to have white edge markings which should provide some paved surface on either side of the road for pedestrians and cyclists.  If we can narrow the travelled lane, we can create more width on the edges.  I am continuing to have this discussion with staff.  The current lane width guidelines are somewhat outdated so we are working through some ideas in order to come out with the best result in the end.

Obviously, and City staff will agree, the best result would have been sidewalks but the right circumstances didn’t come together at this time for that to happen.  What we’re focused on right now is to achieve the best compromise to get us from now until such time that a sidewalk is constructed.

Photo Credit: Mayor Jim Watson on Flickr

Photo Credit: Mayor Jim Watson on Flickr

Order of Ottawa and the Brian Kilrea Award

The deadline is quickly approaching to submit nominations for the 2015 Order of Ottawa and the Brian Kilrea Award for Excellence in Coaching. Nominations will be accepted until Friday, September 11 at 11:59pm.

The prestigious Order of Ottawa award is intended to recognize those who have made significant contributions through their professional endeavours, to life in the city in any of the following areas: arts and culture, business, philanthropy, health care, education, public service, labour, communications and media, science, sports and entertainment and other fields that benefit Ottawa.

The Brian Kilrea Award for Excellence in Coaching recognizes the contribution of an amateur coach who best exemplifies the qualities of leadership and commitment that have been the hallmarks of Brian Kilrea’s career.

Nominations for the Order of Ottawa or the Brian Kilrea Award for Excellence in Coaching may be completed online at ottawa.ca, or by filling out a nomination form available at your local community centre, public library, or any client service centre.

The awards will be presented at the Order of Ottawa awards ceremony in the fall of 2015.

5th Annual Manotick Soapbox Derby and BBQ Picnic in the Park
-->

Come out to Centennial Park in Manotick this Sunday, August 5th and celebrate the end-of-summer with a wonderful day for the entire family. There will be races, music, a craft table for children, face painting, balloon figures from Dr. Kaboom,  and of course, a BBQ lunch of hot dogs and hamburgers to purchase and fresh FREE corn on the cob. Bring a picnic blanket or chairs and spend some relaxing time in the park. It’s not just a day for racing, but also a day for families to come out and enjoy the festivities.

*****

If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491.

Updates on Dickinson Square

As some of you may already know, the Ayres Building in Dickinson Square has officially been sold.  The building had been owned by the City of Ottawa since the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority vacated the space in 2007.  Normally, I would announce the sale myself but I’m quite happy that the new owner was so excited to close the sale and announce it themselves.  After all, it isn’t about me. It was just under two weeks ago that Rural Ottawa South Support Services (ROSSS) announced that they had purchased the building, allowing them to maintain the place they’ve called home for the better part of a decade.

While the Manotick Mill Quarter Community Development Corporation, along with ROSSS, finalized the deal a couple of months ago, we were awaiting the official close of the sale, scheduled for August 6th.  As soon as all of the t’s were crossed and the i’s were dotted, ROSSS was free to dispense the good news.  We were a bit more tightly lipped this time around as many of you will recall an announcement I made in December 2013 regarding the initial sale of the Ayres Building to a Christmas store owner.  That, of course, fell through prior to the closing date so I decided to try and learn from my mistake.  In the end, everything worked out and now ROSSS can continue to serve the communities of Osgoode, Rideau and Goulbourn from right here in Manotick.

With the Ayres Building sale wrapped up, the Peppermint Spa transformation of the Weaver House well underway and the development of 1125 Clapp Lane approved, the Manotick Mill Quarter Community Development Corporation has come a long way in four years.  Of course, the work is not yet done and the City of Ottawa still retains the ownership of the Carriage Shed and Dickinson House.  Community sentiment has spoken strongly in favour of maintaining the current arrangement at these two buildings and I will continue to work toward a solution that can be supported by the community and makes the most sense going forward.  In my mind, that solution needs to make sense as much 50 years from now as it does today.  No easy task but we’ve listened to the community every step of the way and I look forward to continuing that working relationship on the two remaining, and most significant, Dickinson Square properties.

Dickinson House News

Speaking of Dickinson Square, come out and visit on August 15th and 16th as there will be demonstrations of the old time Domestic Skills of Spinning and Weaving at the House. Visitors will also be able to learn about or try their hand at the techniques citizens used to cope with laundry before the advent of the automatic washer and dryer.  The House is open from 10:00am until 5:00pm daily.  This summer’s special exhibition is Tableware in Times Past in the Coral Lindsay Memorial Hall on the third floor.  As always, admission is free, and donations toward the upkeep of the House are welcome.

Further, mark your calendars and plan to come to an old-fashioned, family oriented Barn Dance at Watson’s Mill on September 5th at 7:30 pm.  There will be live folk music featuring the Ever Hopeful String Band; easy instructions on traditional circle, square and line dances; country food and refreshments.  The Heritage Country Fair, with a full lineup of traditional Fall Fair events, will be in full swing on Saturday, September 5th, beginning at 10:00am.  For information about the events, check www.rideautownshiphistory.org/dickinsonhouse, call 613-692-2241 or visit the House.

A Taste of Manotick

While Dickinson House is providing a taste of the past on August 15th, the rest of the village will be promoting the present.  The Annual Taste of Manotick is back on Saturday, between 4:00pm and 9:00pm.  This annual showcase will take place along Manotick Main Street and into the Mews. Come out and enjoy live music, delicious samples, draws and demonstrations in the heart of the village.

Also, and you heard it here first, this is a guaranteed rain free event!  That is my guarantee and I know you can trust me on this as a recent Ipsos Reid poll ranked local politicians as the least trustworthy profession.  See you there!!

Manotick Secondary Plan

Back to business, the website for the Secondary Plan review has now been updated.  You can visit Ottawa.ca/manotickplan to look at the Official Plan and Zoning By-Law Amendments resulting from the current review update.  Please provide comments by September 5th on the draft proposals.  My office will also be distributing this information via mail to all Manotick residents to ensure that everyone is aware.

Development Updates

There are now two development applications in the Stittsville South expansion area.  Over the last two years, the City of Ottawa has been working on an application from several firms involving the property north of Woodside Acres and south of the Hartsmere subdivision.  That application is in the process of receiving draft approval after a lengthy process that included four public meetings.  The results from that include a restriction to vehicular traffic from the new development onto Poplarwood Road and a monitoring program on structures and wells to ensure there are no negative impacts on existing homes in Woodside Acres.

Directly to the east of that proposal is another application, this one by Tartan Homes, which has just been submitted.  This is, essentially, an extension of the previous application as the road network ties in and is key to traffic management in the area.  The main roads will filter out onto Shea Road and Fernbank Road. This property is addressed as 5970 Fernbank Road and more information on the application can be found at Ottawa.ca/devapps.  As information becomes available, it will be posted at that link.  Further, there will be a public meeting scheduled to discuss this application as well.

Open Air Fire Permits

Residents are reminded that open air fires of any kind are prohibited without an Open Air Fire Permit.

An open air fire refers to the burning of untreated wood, tree limbs and branches where the flame is not wholly contained. The City’s Open Air Fire By-law prohibits the use of campfires, brush fires, burn drums, windrows and outdoor fireplaces within City limits. Barbecues are permitted.

Definitions for all these terms, and further details about Open Air Fire Permits, can be found on the City’s website, ottawa.ca.

While open air burning might seem to be harmless, it has the potential to cause visible haze, health problems, air pollution and nuisance concerns.

Even residents who possess a permit are required to call 613-580-2880 prior to burning to ensure there is not a burn ban in effect.

Substantial fines may be issued to residents who are not in possession of a valid permit or are found to be non-compliant to conditions and regulations within their permit. Fire permits are available at all Client Service Centres and Ottawa Fire Services’ Rural Administrative offices. A list of these sites, hours of operation and more information on fire permits can be found on ottawa.ca or by calling 3-1-1.

*****

If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491.

Dickinson Square, Manotick Secondary Plan and Goulbourn development updates

As some of you may already know, the Ayres Building in Dickinson Square has officially been sold.  The building had been owned by the City of Ottawa since the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority vacated the space in 2007.  Normally, I would announce the sale myself but I’m quite happy that the new owner was so excited to close the sale and announce it themselves.  After all, it isn’t about me. It was just under two weeks ago that Rural Ottawa South Support Services (ROSSS) announced that they had purchased the building, allowing them to maintain the place they’ve called home for the better part of a decade.

While the Manotick Mill Quarter Community Development Corporation, along with ROSSS, finalized the deal a couple of months ago, we were awaiting the official close of the sale, scheduled for August 6th.  As soon as all of the t’s were crossed and the i’s were dotted, ROSSS was free to dispense the good news.  We were a bit more tightly lipped this time around as many of you will recall an announcement I made in December 2013 regarding the initial sale of the Ayres Building to a Christmas store owner.  That, of course, fell through prior to the closing date so I decided to try and learn from my mistake.  In the end, everything worked out and now ROSSS can continue to serve the communities of Osgoode, Rideau and Goulbourn from right here in Manotick.

With the Ayres Building sale wrapped up, the Peppermint Spa transformation of the Weaver House well underway and the development of 1125 Clapp Lane approved, the Manotick Mill Quarter Community Development Corporation has come a long way in four years.  Of course, the work is not yet done and the City of Ottawa still retains the ownership of the Carriage Shed and Dickinson House.  Community sentiment has spoken strongly in favour of maintaining the current arrangement at these two buildings and I will continue to work toward a solution that can be supported by the community and makes the most sense going forward.  In my mind, that solution needs to make sense as much 50 years from now as it does today.  No easy task but we’ve listened to the community every step of the way and I look forward to continuing that working relationship on the two remaining, and most significant, Dickinson Square properties.

Dickinson House News

Speaking of Dickinson Square, come out and visit on August 15th and 16th as there will be demonstrations of the old time Domestic Skills of Spinning and Weaving at the House. Visitors will also be able to learn about or try their hand at the techniques citizens used to cope with laundry before the advent of the automatic washer and dryer.  The House is open from 10:00am until 5:00pm daily.  This summer’s special exhibition is Tableware in Times Past in the Coral Lindsay Memorial Hall on the third floor.  As always, admission is free, and donations toward the upkeep of the House are welcome.

Further, mark your calendars and plan to come to an old-fashioned, family oriented Barn Dance at Watson’s Mill on September 5th at 7:30 pm.  There will be live folk music featuring the Ever Hopeful String Band; easy instructions on traditional circle, square and line dances; country food and refreshments.  The Heritage Country Fair, with a full lineup of traditional Fall Fair events, will be in full swing on Saturday, September 5th, beginning at 10:00am.  For information about the events, check www.rideautownshiphistory.org/dickinsonhouse, call 613-692-2241 or visit the House.

Manotick Secondary Plan Update

Back to business, the website for the Secondary Plan review has now been updated.  You can visit Ottawa.ca/manotickplan to look at the Official Plan and Zoning By-Law Amendments resulting from the current review update.  Please provide comments by September 5th on the draft proposals.  My office will also be distributing this information via mail to all Manotick residents to ensure that everyone is aware.

Development Updates in Goulbourn

There are now two development applications in the Stittsville South expansion area.  Over the last two years, the City of Ottawa has been working on an application from several firms involving the property north of Woodside Acres and south of the Hartsmere subdivision.  That application is in the process of receiving draft approval after a lengthy process that included four public meetings.  The results from that include a restriction to vehicular traffic from the new development onto Poplarwood Road and a monitoring program on structures and wells to ensure there are no negative impacts on existing homes in Woodside Acres.

Directly to the east of that proposal is another application, this one by Tartan Homes, which has just been submitted.  This is, essentially, an extension of the previous application as the road network ties in and is key to traffic management in the area.  The main roads will filter out onto Shea Road and Fernbank Road. This property is addressed as 5970 Fernbank Road and more information on the application can be found at Ottawa.ca/devapps.  As information becomes available, it will be posted at that link.  Further, there will be a public meeting scheduled to discuss this application as well.

Open Air Fire Permits

Residents are reminded that open air fires of any kind are prohibited without an Open Air Fire Permit.

An open air fire refers to the burning of untreated wood, tree limbs and branches where the flame is not wholly contained. The City’s Open Air Fire By-law prohibits the use of campfires, brush fires, burn drums, windrows and outdoor fireplaces within City limits. Barbecues are permitted.

Definitions for all these terms, and further details about Open Air Fire Permits, can be found on the City’s website, ottawa.ca.

While open air burning might seem to be harmless, it has the potential to cause visible haze, health problems, air pollution and nuisance concerns.

Even residents who possess a permit are required to call 613-580-2880 prior to burning to ensure there is not a burn ban in effect.

Substantial fines may be issued to residents who are not in possession of a valid permit or are found to be non-compliant to conditions and regulations within their permit. Fire permits are available at all Client Service Centres and Ottawa Fire Services’ Rural Administrative offices. A list of these sites, hours of operation and more information on fire permits can be found on ottawa.ca or by calling 3-1-1.

A Taste of Manotick

While Dickinson House is providing a taste of the past on August 15th, the rest of the village will be promoting the present.  The Annual Taste of Manotick is back on Saturday, between 4:00pm and 9:00pm.  This annual showcase will take place along Manotick Main Street and into the Mews. Come out and enjoy live music, delicious samples, draws and demonstrations in the heart of the village.

Also, and you heard it here first, this is a guaranteed rain free event!  That is my guarantee and I know you can trust me on this as a recent Ipsos Reid poll ranked local politicians as the least trustworthy profession.  See you there!!

*****

If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491.

Manotick Arena Expansion and the Manotick Secondary Plan review

In May of this year, the City of Ottawa was invited to submit projects to the Government of Canada for the new Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP 150 Fund). This Federal program supports the rehabilitation, renovation and expansion of existing public infrastructure assets. This program is linked to Canada’s 150th anniversary celebrations in 2017.

Subsequent to this invitation, City Council endorsed a list of 23 projects for application under the CIP 150 Fund.  The renovation and expansion of the Manotick Arena was on the list.  This project was first identified several years ago by community members looking for expanded change rooms and more community meeting/activity space.  Through the work of the community, the project was adopted by the City of Ottawa as a future infrastructure project allowing it to be considered for the CIP 150 Fund.

This brings us to Friday, July 31st and the announcement at the Manotick Arena.  After discussing the project with myself and meeting with community leaders, MP Pierre Poilievre was in town to announce that the Manotick Arena Expansion Project had secured $880,000 to expand and upgrade the facility with the addition of four new accessible dressing rooms and a community hall.

I want to thank MP Poilievre as well as representatives from the Osgoode-Rideau Minor Hockey Association, Rural Ottawa South Support Services, Youth of Manotick Association, Manotick Village & Community Association, Manotick Culture, Parks & Recreation Association as well as representatives from the various adult hockey leagues for their work on this collaborative community effort to improve the arena facilities.  With this funding, it is expected that construction will begin in 2016.

Manotick Secondary Plan: Traffic Issues

Throughout the public meetings for the Secondary Plan review, concerns were continuously raised regarding traffic issues in the village.  You may have also read about some of these issues in recent letters to the editor in this very paper.  The challenges we continue to have in addressing these issues are directly related to the City of Ottawa’s warrant system, supported by the Ontario Traffic Manual.  In essence, new intersection signage and reduced speed limits need to meet specific criteria prior to implementation.  This has been the stumbling block for addressing community concerns.

With this in mind, I’d like to suggest hosting a public meeting this fall leading up to the Secondary Plan Review approval.  The purpose of this meeting would be to explain the warrant system as it applies to local issues, discuss the local issues in question and seek feedback from the community on a way forward for these various issues.  Some of these issues include speed limit reductions on Bankfield Road and Manotick Main Street and the implementation of a Community Safety Zone on Bridge Street and on Long Island Road.  We will also look at a variety of examples where warrants were met and why versus some intersections where warrants aren’t met.  A perfect example would be the new four way stop at Barsndale Road & Greenbank Road, which did meet warrants, and the intersection of Rideau Valley Drive & Barnsdale Road, where we have received a couple of requests for all way stop controls but that intersection does not meet warrants.

We’ll also discuss the years old issue of trucks in the village and some of things we have been working on to help reduce the pressure in the village and spread the traffic load over other nearby bridges.  It is my intention to host this meeting jointly with the Manotick Village & Community Association in late September or early October.  As soon as I coordinate with City of Ottawa staff on their schedules, I will set a date and let you know.  I will endeavour to bring forward any potential resolutions to the Agriculture & Rural Affairs Committee alongside the Secondary Plan review.

In the coming weeks, feel free to contact me with issues you would like to discuss and have highlighted at this meeting.  I’m not going to pretend that we can solve all issues raised but a healthy discussion of such never hurts.

Open Air Fire Permits

Residents are reminded that open air fires of any kind are prohibited without an Open Air Fire Permit.

An open air fire refers to the burning of untreated wood, tree limbs and branches where the flame is not wholly contained. The City’s Open Air Fire By-law prohibits the use of campfires, brush fires, burn drums, windrows and outdoor fireplaces within City limits. Barbecues are permitted.

Definitions for all these terms, and further details about Open Air Fire Permits, can be found on the City’s website, ottawa.ca.

While open air burning might seem to be harmless, it has the potential to cause visible haze, health problems, air pollution and nuisance concerns.

Even residents who possess a permit are required to call 613-580-2880 prior to burning to ensure there is not a burn ban in effect.

Substantial fines may be issued to residents who are not in possession of a valid permit or are found to be non-compliant to conditions and regulations within their permit. Fire permits are available at all Client Service Centres and Ottawa Fire Services’ Rural Administrative offices. A list of these sites, hours of operation and more information on fire permits can be found on ottawa.ca or by calling 3-1-1.

*****

If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491.

First ARAC meeting for this Term of Council

This Thursday, February 5th is the date of the first Agriculture & Rural Affairs Committee meeting of this term of Council.  It also marks my first meeting as Chair.  This meeting will be held at City Hall at 9:30am but one of the agenda items will likely mean that this will be the last ARAC meeting at City Hall.  Following the Governance Report that I discussed back in December, we will be discussing meeting locations for future meetings.  Essentially, we are looking at moving all meetings to Ben Franklin Place in Centrepointe.  This location is geographically central to all wards in the City, thus offering an accessible location for rural residents.  It also has ample free parking.  This change in location will come into effect in time for the March meeting of ARAC.

Also on the agenda for the February 5th ARAC meeting will be the approval of naming the North Gower Bowling Alley after Gerry Lines, commemorating a future Manotick park in memory of Lela Scharf, confirming appointments to the Manotick Business Improvement Area, the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority, the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority, the South Nation Conservation Authority and the rural panel of the Committee of Adjustment, as well as some minor reports on two municipal drains.

Manotick Secondary Plan: Heritage in the Core

In last week’s column, I focused on soliciting feedback on the vacant land use designations within Manotick’s Secondary Plan.  However, that was the only item of importance I touched on during the meeting I hosted on Thursday, January 22nd.  This week, I’d like to gauge your opinions on heritage designations within Manotick.  While we have several buildings designated, such as Dickinson House, Watson’s Mill, Miller’s Oven and about a half dozen other properties within the village core, there are just over 70 properties on the Heritage Reference List.

The City of Ottawa’s Heritage Reference List identifies potentially significant buildings that staff can refer to when development applications come forward in order to assess whether or not a building merits further investigation and possible protection or designation.  During the 1997 developing of the Manotick Secondary Plan, the 70 or so properties mentioned above were added to the list.  While the list might highlight the potential heritage value of a building, it doesn’t do a whole lot to protect a building.  Consider that if a demolition permit was sought for the old Manotick Tea Room building, or the building that houses Allure, the permit could be issued and the building torn down without the community having any real say whether it gets torn down, protected or otherwise.  That brings me to the Heritage Register.

The City of Ottawa’s Heritage Register provides a form of protection that the Reference List lacks.  If a property is listed on the Register and a demolition permit is sought, the City has 60 days to decide whether or not the building warrants designation.  Those 60 days gives the City time to do their due diligence on designation and for the community to be made aware and take part in the process.  It doesn’t mean that the property owner can’t renovate or make changes to the property; it just helps to ensure that the property won’t simply disappear in a matter of hours.  In Manotick, the house at the northwest corner of Bridge Street and Manotick Main Street was added to the Register last year.

While I don’t believe all 70+ buildings listed on the Heritage Reference List are worthy of protection, I do believe many of them should be at least given that 60-day reprieve so that we don’t lose our history through demolition.  My question to you is, would you support shifting some of the properties onto the Heritage Register so that due diligence can be given in the event that a demolition permit is sought?  Further, are there any specific properties that you would wish to see on the Heritage Register?

In addition to the Allure Spa building and the former Manotick Team Room, Reference List buildings include: 5545 Ann Street (formerly Lindsay & McCaffrey); 5544 Manotick Main Street (The Mill Tavern); 5549 Manotick Main Street (known as Sonny’s Garage); 1136 Tighe Street (My Toy Shop); 1136 Mill Street (Mill Street Florist).  For the full list, please refer to the Manotick Community Profile (Pages 17 & 18) at ottawa.ca/manotickplan. 

A common goal we all share is the protection of our historic communities.  Preserving our heritage is key to protecting our villages.  I want to thank you for the feedback so far from last week’s column and I look forward to further feedback on this topic.

Free Family Day Event at Goulbourn Museum

Family Day at Goulbourn Museum will feature an array of free activities for all ages. Families can pose for a fun keepsake in the photo booth, get creative at the craft station, play games, win prizes, and pretend to be pioneers in the Museum’s replica village shop.

If weather permits there will also be outdoor games and activities as well as roasting marshmallows around the fire pit.  The Family Day festivities take place Monday, February 16th from 10:00am to 3:00pm. All ages are welcome, admission is free and so are the hot chocolate and Tim Bits!

The Goulbourn Museum is located at 2064 Huntley Road, just south of Stittsville, at Stanley’s Corners. For more information, visit www.goulbournmuseum.ca or call 613-831-2393 or join Goulbourn Museum on Facebook for regular updates.

Summer Student Recruitment

Students interested in summer employment with the City of Ottawa are encouraged to apply for available positions through ottawa.ca. The 2015 Summer Student Employment Campaign will be open from February 2 to February 27, 2015.

This program offers students great opportunity to gain valuable work experience and insight into today’s workforce, discover a career path, showcase skills and enhance academic goals. For more information including eligibility criteria and other requirements, visit ottawa.ca.

My ServiceOttawa is improving residents’ online experience

Ottawa residents now have the ability to view, print and pay their property tax bill and water and sewer bill online at Ottawa.ca through My ServiceOttawa. By creating a My ServiceOttawa account, residents can securely access and customize online City services and information that matter most to them 24 hours a day, including:

  • Paying bills online or setting up preauthorized payments
  • Viewing account summaries, bill history and last payment information
  • Changing your mailing address
  • Viewing a personalized garbage and recycling calendar
  • Viewing the status of service requests

Once the account is created, all that is required to view, print and pay bills online is your water account number and balance on the last bill, or property tax roll number and access code. Set up an account today by going to ottawa.ca and selecting the My ServiceOttawa button at the top of the web page.

*****

If you have any comments, questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491.

Caivan in Richmond, Strandherd/Armstrong Bridge opens

As many of you may already know, the development application by Caivan Developments for 1000 units at 6335 & 6350 Perth Street was appealed to the Ontario Municipal Board last fall.  On May 26th, the OMB hearing was scheduled to take place with the City of Ottawa, Caivan and the Richmond Village Association all represented.  Prior to this meeting, however, an agreement was reached with regard to the development application and Draft Plan Approval was granted.  As promised a few weeks ago, I just wanted to detail some of the details of that approval.

One of the key issues from the community standpoint was stormwater and how the new development would handle surface water and not impact the existing community.  One of the conditions of draft plan approval is that Caivan must host a public meeting to explain their approach to handling stormwater on site.  Drainage was another issue and I can now confirm that the Arbuckle Drain has been approved and will provide adequate outlet for the development, between Perth Street and the Jock River.  The drainage works will see erosion controls put in place to prevent future erosion from occurring.  Similarly, the Van Gaal drain to the north of Perth Street will see the same benefits to the development and the surrounding properties.

On the density concerns, Caivan has agreed to a maximum of 750 units on their lands rather than the applied for 1000 units.  Also, the setback from the road to the home will be four metres rather than the three metres originally sought.  This will help keep the development closer in line with the existing community and less like a suburban development.  Some of the benefits of this will include larger lots, more space for trees, less parked cars on the roads and more space for stormwater recharge within individual lots.

I still don’t expect to see any new homes until at least 2016 and I imagine the growth rate will be consistent with what we have seen in Richmond over the last ten years.  The rate has dipped a little recently with only 26 new homes built in 2013.  An ideal comparison would be the Minto development in Manotick, which will see the addition of 1400 homes.  So far, around 30 new homes have been built and construction began in 2012.  While the new homes in Richmond will be a little more affordable, I don’t expect the growth rate to be anywhere similar to suburban development.

The next steps will see Caivan satisfy their conditions of approval whereas I, along with the City, will work with Mattamy Homes to seek similar adjustments to density and other issues with their 1100 unit application.  If you have any questions on this, feel free to contact me.

Strandherd/Armstrong Bridge is open!

As many of you are now aware, the Strandherd/Armstrong Bridge is now open.  With this long-awaited bridge now operational, the real work begins to determine the impacts it has on traffic, both local and regional.  In the coming weeks and months, City staff will be monitoring traffic flows as it will take some time before patterns become regular.  At first many people will try new routes and if they don’t save time, will revert to their old patters.  Obviously, the morning and evening commute is something to keep a close eye on but also the impact on Bridge Street.

Just recently, a traffic count in Manotick showed approximately 16,000 vehicles per day use Bridge Street.  This is largely consistent with all other studies in recent years.  Just less than 10% of the volume is truck traffic.  In the coming weeks, we will get updated numbers to understand the impact of the new bridge and what relief is being seen in Manotick.

Orgaworld & Green Bin Audit

On July 9th, the Auditor General’s report into the Orgaworld contract and the green bin program was released.  It revealed some serious deficiencies in how the program was launched and the agreement that was signed between the City of Ottawa and Orgaworld.  One of the major issues was the proposed tonnage, of which there was no scientific basis for setting the target of 80,000 tonnes of collected organics per year.  Ideally, the program should have had a ramp up period in order to progressively work toward 80,000 tonnes but that wasn’t even considered.  A simple comparison could have been made to the blue box program which didn’t see much uptake initially but now almost every single laneway has a blue box at the end of it.  These types of programs take time and the contract should have reflected that.

It is easy for anyone who wasn’t on Council when the contract was signed to throw up their hands and say “it wasn’t me.”  That is really not an acceptable approach and it is not what you expect from your elected official.  The job we have is to make this better, fix what is wrong with the contract.  The biggest challenge is making the green bin easier to use for all residents.  In my opinion, the key is allowing organic waste to be disposed of in plastic bags and thrown into the bins.  Obviously, this isn’t the current practice but in countless municipalities, they allow plastic bags.  In those same municipalities, the diversion rate is much higher than here in Ottawa.  It is important to note that the inclusion of plastic bags will not result in a reduced organic quality of the compost.  The Orgaworld plant in London, Ontario accepts plastic bags currently and cycles them out inside the plant.  After separation, the plastics are then diverted and used at a local cement plant in Southern Ontario.

For the most part, we all want to prolong the life on our City-owned landfill, which just happens to be in Rideau-Goulbourn.  We cannot, and should not, force people to divert waste; we need to make it easy.  In the coming months, I believe we will have an opportunity to renegotiate the Orgaworld contract and I, along with many of my colleagues, will be pushing for the inclusion of plastic bags in green bins.  This will reduce odours, result in less mess and more importantly, you won’t have to see the maggots that crawl around our bins from time to time.

In the end, the result will be less waste going to the Trail Road landfill, less money being wasted on our inability to reach the contracted targets and, ultimately, a reduced need to locate a future landfill.

Rural Association Partnership Program

If you are an Ottawa organization operating rural fairs, rural farmers’ markets or rural business organizations such as Chamber of Commerce and Business Improvement Areas, you may be eligible for funding of up to $7,500 through the City of Ottawa’s Rural Association Partnership Program (RAPP).

The second-round of RAPP funding is now available with applications being accepted until Friday, August 22 at 4 pm.

The objectives of the RAPP are:

  • To provide project based funding that supports the main priorities for rural organizations.
  • To contribute to the City’s rural economic health by supporting projects that will assist Ottawa’s rural business organizations, fairs and farmers markets achieve sustainability and capitalize on the proximity to Ottawa’s large urban market.
  • To assist in promoting Ottawa’s rural identity to both residents and tourists.
  • To provide economic benefits to small and medium sized enterprises in Ottawa’s rural communities.
  • Assist rural communities to overcome the business development challenges associated with smaller local population base.
  • To increase the capacity for rural communities to provide a quality visitor experience.

More information, including guidelines and an application form, can be found on the Rural Association Partnership Program webpage at http://ottawa.ca/en/residents/social-services/rural-connections/rural-association-partnership-program.

Prospective RAPP applicants are encouraged to contact the Rural Affairs Office at [email protected] or 613-580-2424 ext. 28352 to discuss their proposal prior to submitting an application.

*****

If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491.

Woodroffe Avenue closure

An issue of concern for many residents south of Barrhaven is coming to Planning Committee on Tuesday, February 11th.  The closure of Woodroffe Avenue will be on the agenda.  This closure dates back to pre-amalgamation Nepean in which the Council of the day approved closing Woodroffe Avenue at Prince of Wales Drive contingent on the extension of Strandherd Drive to Prince of Wales Drive.  Since that is now open, the closure has come forward with public consultation having been conducted in recent months.  I have heard many concerns from residents in our area on the closure and if you would like to speak on this issue at Committee, the meeting will be held in the Champlain Room at Ottawa City Hall at 9:30am.  As I have stated in the past, I am opposed to the closure as Woodroffe Avenue has historically been a vital connection into the city from the rural area, especially such destinations as the Nepean Sportsplex and Algonquin College.  The counter argument to my position is that taking Prince of Wales/Strandherd as an alternative is only 700m longer.

Manotick Local Improvement

In response to a Letter to the Editor in the December 19, 2013 issue of the Manotick Messenger, I just wanted to provide some details on the cost breakdown of the Manotick Core Local Improvement.  The Letter asked why Manotick properties were paying for something that benefits Minto more than anyone else.  First of all, it is important to note that the drive to bring sanitary services to the Village Core was done so through a petition presented to the City by the property owners, not at the request of any future developer.  However, as future development would certainly benefit, the cost breakdown took that into consideration.

In a report to Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee on March 12, 2008, the following was included: “The total estimated cost for the Local Improvement works is $26.96M with $12.06M applicable to the petition areas and the balance of $14.90M to be recovered from future servicing areas.  Based on the $12.06M applicable to the petition areas, the City and non-City share is $6.165M and $5.895M, respectively.”  The $26M figure covers both Hillside Gardens and the Core.  Therefore, only 22% of the total servicing costs were assessed to the properties that originally petitioned for the work.  The City covered 23% while 55% of the total costs will be assessed to future development or other future connections.

I hope this clarifies the issue.  If you have any further questions on this, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Generations Youth & Seniors

A fun Family Day event for youth and seniors is being organized for Saturday, February 15th between 10:00am and 4:00pm.  Rural Ottawa South Support Services and the Osgoode Youth Association are teaming up to offer this is event which will feature an art workshop, baking workshop, afternoon tea social and a delicious lunch.  Seniors over 65 years old and youth, between the ages of 11 and 18, are invited to this FREE event.

Spots are limited so please register as soon as possible.  Youth can register in person at the O-YA Centre of by email at [email protected] and seniors can register by contacting Terry at 613-692-4697 or [email protected].

Seniors Valentine’s Luncheon

The annual Seniors Valentine’s Luncheon at the Kars R.A. Hall is on Thursday, February 13th.  Always well attended, this event features a delicious home cooked meal for only $10 per person.  Live music and entertainment will be provided by the Mellowtones.  Lunch starts at noon so get there early!  The Kars R.A. Hall is located at 1604 Old Wellington Street, just off of Rideau Valley Drive South.

Kars Family Fun Day

Bring the family and join the Kars Recreation Association for some indoor & outdoor activities on Saturday, Feb 15th starting at 10:00am.  For the outdoor enthusiasts there will be skating and snowman making (weather permitting).  If you are looking to remain indoors, have fun soap carving, speed stacking, in addition to other arts & crafts.  Junkyard Symphony & Little Ray’s Zoo will also be in attendance to provide fun for the whole family. The event takes place at the Kars R.A. Hall at 1604 Old Wellington, Kars. There is a charge of $5.00 per adult which includes shows and lunch, children are free. www.kars.ca

Help Richmond win Kraft Hockeyville 2014

The nominations for Kraft Hockeyville close on February 9th at midnight so don’t forget to visit hockeyville.cbc.ca, join the Richmond Memorial Community Centre group and help support Richmond’s bid to be named Kraft Hockeyville 2014!  On February 8th, Creekside Gardens is hosting a Hockey Festival Day on their outdoor rink.  There will be a BBQ and hockey games throughout the day so come out and enjoy the fun.  Creekside Gardens is located at 5901 Ottawa Street.

Blood Clinic

Canadian Blood Services has activated the blood signal - which is a call to action to inform Canadians that there is an urgent need for blood right now. They are asking Canadians to rally together to give blood at their local clinics in the coming weeks. Canadian Blood Services are looking to fill 33,000 open appointment slots nationally.

The clinic in Richmond needs to collect 38 units of blood. Canadian Blood Services is hosting a donor clinic on Monday, February 10th at St. Philip’s Catholic Church between 4:30pm and 8:30pm.  Donors can book an appointment at www.blood.ca or by calling 1-888-236-6283.

Free Family Day Event at Goulbourn Museum

Family Day at Goulbourn Museum will feature an array of free activities for all ages. Families can pose for a photo keepsake in the Old-Fashioned Photo Booth, get creative at the craft station, play games, win prizes, and step back in time in the Museum’s replica village shop.

Visitors will also be the first to glimpse a piece of military history that was once pinned to the chest of one of Goulbourn’s War of 1812 heroes. After being passed down from generation to generation for 160 years, the family of Colonel George Burke has entrusted the Museum with his silver military medal. Burke’s medal will be added to the Museum’s 100th Regiment of Foot exhibition which is undergoing renovations to make the displays more accessible. Both the medal and the refreshed exhibit will be unveiled during the Museum’s Family Day event.

The Family Day festivities take place Monday, February 17 from 10:00am to 3:00pm. All ages are welcome, admission is free and light refreshments will be served. The Goulbourn Museum is located at 2064 Huntley Road, just south of Stittsville, at Stanley’s Corners. For more information, please visit http://goulbournmuseum.ca/whats-happening/ or call 613-831-2393 or join Goulbourn Museum on Facebook for regular updates.

*****

If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491.

Flu season is upon us - vaccine information

12771851-23764933-thumbnail.jpg

This Friday, October 25th, I want to invite residents to help celebrate the opening of Major W. Ross Chamberlain Park at 10:00am.  Manotick’s newest park is located in the Mahogany community at 520 Bridgeport Avenue, directly in front of the new CHEO Dream Home.  Joined by Mayor Jim Watson, members of the Royal Canadian Legion, as well as members of Mr. Chamberlain’s family, this ceremony will also celebrate Mr. Chamberlain and all he contributed to our country and our community.

Women’s Day in Manotick

As November fast approaches, it is once again time for Manotick’s annual Women’s Day.  This great event, organized by the Manotick BIA, takes place on Saturday, November 2nd, between 10:00am and 5:00pm. Come discover (or rediscover) Manotick with its great shopping, fantastic restaurants and village charm.  Women’s Day Passports will be available at all participating retailers.  Get your passport stamped by all participating businesses, drop off your passport at the last location and you will be entered into a draw for great local prizes.  For more information, please visit www.manotickvillage.com.

Ottawa Public Health Flu Clinics

It’s that time of the year again and flu season is upon us. This year, there are more convenient options throughout the city for Ottawa residents to get their flu shot.

Ottawa Public Health will be starting community vaccine clinics on Saturday, October 26. This year, there are 22 clinics, including two by appointment only and an additional six public clinics at local hospitals. A full clinic listing, along with a complete list of more than 130 local pharmacies offering the vaccine, can be found online at ottawa.ca/flu.

As pharmacists can only administer the flu vaccine to residents over the age of five, OPH will also be holding flu vaccine clinics by appointment only for children under five years of age and for their parents and siblings at the OPH Immunization Clinic located on the main floor at 100 Constellation Drive.

Local clinics include Monday, November 4th, between 3:30-7:30pm, at Sacred Heart Catholic High School in Stittsville; Saturday, November 16th, between 9:00am and 2:00pm at the Richmond Arena; Wednesday, November 20th, between 3:30-7:30pm, at the Greely Community Centre.  Local pharmacies are also offering flu shots and they include Paul’s Pharmasave (Manotick), Rexall (Manotick), Richmond Pharmacy, Shoppers Drug Mart (Manotick), Shoppers Drug Mart (Stittsville) and Stittsville Pharmacy.

The influenza vaccine is for anyone six months of age and older who lives, works or goes to school in Ontario.

Residents are reminded:

  • the influenza vaccine is safe, and the most effective way to protect yourself and your family from the seasonal flu
  • to wash your hands with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer
  • to cover your coughs and sneezes with your arm, not your hand

For more information, visit ottawa.ca/flu or call the Ottawa Public Health Information Line at 613-580-7744 (TTY: 613-580-9656).

Kids and Drugs Ottawa

Kids and Drugs Ottawa is a workshop for parents, guardians, friends and family members who are concerned about preventing their children from using drugs. This is an education program developed and presented by the local and provincial police forces to reach out and educate parents regarding drugs. This session is for parents of and /or youth leaders working with grades 5-9. It will cover current drug trends, signs and symptoms to look for, the role and power of parents, talking with children and helping them make good decisions.

The event will take place on November 2nd, from 9:00am - 12:00pm (registration opens at 8:30), St. James Church, 1138 Bridge Street in Manotick. Contact church office at 613-692-2082 or register online at kidsdrugs.eventbrite.ca. Cost is $10 for adults (to cover cost of coffee and snacks), free for youth leaders age 16-18. Registration is limited to 50 people.

If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491.

Halloween Fun at Goulbourn Museum

There’s a horde of hair raising Halloween hijinks brewing at Goulbourn Museum! Mansion Mayhem is back by popular demand and the costumes, candy and cackling will be better than ever. The eerie afternoon adventure takes place Sunday, October 27 from 1 - 4 p.m. Parents can leave the kids at the Museum and enjoy some alone time while their little devils decorate edible haunted houses, make creepy crafts and play ghoulish games.

The workshop is geared to children aged 6-11 and costs $20 per child ($15 for Connexion Cardholders). Registration is required and this annual event fills up fast so call 613-831-2393 or email education@goulbournmuseum to reserve a spot. The Goulbourn Museum is located at 2064 Huntley Road, just south of Stittsville, at Stanley’s Corners. For more information, please the Goulbourn Museum's website or call 613-831-2393. Like the Museum’s Facebook page to get regular updates.

If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491.

Plasco and Roads

With summer somewhat drawing to a close, I just want to remind you of a couple items.  On September 12th, there will be a public meeting at the Richmond Arena, beginning at 6:30pm.  This meeting will be an opportunity for Mattamy Homes to present their plans for either side of Ottawa Street in the Western Development Lands. Their current proposal calls for 1100 units, which will include singles and towns.  Please mark your calendars and come out to ask questions and provide comments on this development proposal.

A week later, it's the Richmond Fair! Hoping for some great weather once again and I hope to see many familiar faces over the course of the weekend. As usual, I will be at my booth for the majority of the weekend.  I believe I spent nearly thirty hours at last year's Fair so there will be plenty of opportunity to chat and provide comments on local issues in and around Richmond.  Looking forward to another great Fair!

August is quickly becoming a big month for events in Manotick.  A Taste of Manotick was, once again, an overwhelming success and it was followed up by this past weekend’s Soap Box Derby/Picnic in the Park event.  The 3rd Annual Soap Box Derby was bigger and better than the previous events and has become a tremendous family event.  The smiles on the kids’ faces were bright and ever apparent and two big kids, myself and Pierre Poilievre, had a lot fun in our 2012 rematch.  The good news is that Pierre did not crash into the Legion this year while the bad news is that he did not win.  All of this bodes well for the 2014 Soap Box Derby as Pierre and I are now tied 1-1.  Of course, I’m fairly certain that only Pierre and I actually care about who wins.

Congratulations to the Manotick Village & Community Association for a successful Picnic in the Park and Soap Box Derby event.  Thank you to Allan Haan, Klaus Beltzner and the entire MVCA Board for bringing such a great event to the streets of Manotick.  It is these types of events that create a community.

Plasco

Last week at Environment Committee, Plasco’s CEO Rod Bryden asked for an extension to his funding deadline to December 31, 2014.  As approved in December 2011, this project is scheduled to be fully operational by March 31, 2016.  The extension request is only on the funding deadline and does not affect the operational deadline.  For this reason, staff supported the extension as it creates no financial impact to the City of Ottawa.

At this committee meeting, I put forward a motion stating that should Plasco not achieve its funding targets that City of Ottawa staff immediately commence a Request for Expressions of Interest to find alternative technology that will allow for the lengthening of the life of the Trail Road Landfill.  If Plasco works, the lifespan moves beyond 2070 but if it doesn’t, we are back to 2035.  There are other technologies that should be explored and while similar technology is not much further advanced than Plasco is today, we shouldn’t waste any more time should Plasco fail.  This motion was approved by Committee and goes to Council on August 28th.

Manotick Main Street/Bridge Street Intersection

Many people are now aware of the recent changes made at the intersection of Manotick Main Street and Bridge Street.  These changes are the result of nearly two years of correspondence and public input from residents of Manotick.  I received several requests to implement a “Right Turn Only” lane at this intersection in the northbound lanes of Main Street.  I looked into it at that time and it was determined that the straight through lane would be overloaded unless left turns were restricted.

On March 7th of this year, I hosted a public meeting at the Manotick Arena with 117 residents in attendance.  At that meeting, I presented the proposed changes for input before moving forward.  My presentation included the “Right Turn Only” lane and the “No Left Turn” onto Maple Avenue.  The left turn restriction was implemented as traffic counts show only 10 cars per peak hour make that turn and the restriction allows for free flowing movements in the straight through lane and the right turn lane. This proposal received near unanimous support with only one resident being opposed at the meeting.

As you now know, this was implemented almost entirely consistent with the proposal I put forward in March.  The one difference is the “No Right on Red”.  I have asked staff to review this element and report back to me.  The way I see it is that we have always gone through this intersection without the red light restriction and the accident rate is relatively low.  I’ll provide an update on this as soon as possible.

Road safety a top priority as children return to school

As students head back to school this fall, the City of Ottawa, the Ottawa Police Service, and Ottawa Public Health remind all road users to be extra attentive to the rules of the road and speed limits, especially in construction zones, school zones and around school buses.

Ottawa Police Service will also be focusing on back to school road safety education and enforcement in the coming weeks.  Safer roads also mean more active and healthy children who feel safe getting back and forth from school by walking or cycling.

This back-to-school initiative is part of the Safer Roads Ottawa Program, a partnership between Ottawa Fire Services, Ottawa Paramedic Service, Ottawa Police Service, Ottawa Public Health, and the Public Works Department. This initiative has been put in place to prevent road deaths and serious injuries in the City of Ottawa, through culture change, community engagement, and development of a sustainable safe transportation environment.

The City will continue to see major construction and renewal in the fall months and will provide mobility options to residents. For more information about how the construction will affect residents, visit ottawa.ca

ROSSS Walk of Care

Join Rural Ottawa South Support Services on Saturday, September 7th for their Annual Walk of Care fundraising event.  This event will include a 5km walk along the Osgoode Multi-Use Pathway from 9:00am to 1:00pm, a BBQ, prizes and entertainment.  Come out and support your parents, grandparents, seniors and adults with physical disabilities as ROSSS raises funds to provide programs and services to help these individuals remain in their homes, living independently.  For more information, please visit rosss.ca or call 613-692-4697.

If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491.

Updates around the Ward

I wanted to begin this week by thanking Waste Management and our City of Ottawa Parks and Recreation department on the success of the inaugural Concert in the Park series in Richmond.  For years, these concerts have taken place in West Carleton and Stittsville and I was very happy to work with Councillor Eli El-Chantiry, Wayne French from Waste Management and Gaetan Morin from the City of Ottawa to bring these concerts to Richmond.  For a first time showing, we had some great crowds and the weather even cooperated.  Proceeds from the canteen went toward our local Youth Connexion and 4H Club.  Thanks to everyone who came out and enjoyed the bands and I look forward to having more concerts next summer.

Van Vliet Extension - Manotick

With the Van Vliet extension finally open, I just wanted to take a moment and thank all of the residents and visitors for their patience during this construction project.  While consultation, final funding, design and construction were all completed during this term of Council, I would like to thank my predecessor, Glenn Brooks, for his role in initiating this road extension and helping to secure the initial $500,000 of the $1.1M needed for this capital project.

During the consultation process, we had spoken about altering the South River Drive exit to allow only right in/right out traffic movements.  Obviously, this was not undertaken at this time but I feel it would be a change that would increase safety of not only anyone who still exits onto Bridge Street heading west but also those travelling along Bridge Street.  Further, I have committed to monitoring the intersection of South River Drive and Van Vliet Road to see if changes need to be made to the current two-way stop.  Does the Van Vliet extension create a need for a four-way stop at this intersection?  This is what we need to find out and I’d be happy to hear your thoughts on either of these two issues.

Dickinson Street/Circle

From one safety improvement to the next, construction is scheduled to begin shortly on the signalization of Dickinson Street and Bridge Street as well as the re-alignment of Dickinson Street between Clapp Lane and Bridge Street. The anticipated completion date for construction is November 20th. However, substantial completion is scheduled around October 30th meaning there should be no negative impacts during the Remembrance Day ceremony at the cenotaph.

During this time, it will be necessary to close Dickinson Street, between Clapp Lane and Bridge Street.  The work includes the re-alignment of Dickinson Street so that it is better aligned with Dickinson Circle on the north side of Bridge Street.  This intersection will then be outfitted with traffic control signals, which will allow safer pedestrian crossings in all directions and safer conditions for residents living on Dickinson Circle and the new residents and employees of the Orchard View on the Rideau facility.  Further, a sidewalk will be constructed on the east side of Dickinson Street which will connect to the existing interlock sidewalk that runs from the cenotaph to Watson’s Mill.  Thanks to some great suggestions from the community, this sidewalk will be interlock as well creating a consistency with the Square.

If there are any updates that need to be provided during construction, I will be sure to post them in this column.

Update on the Designation of Mineral Aggregate Resources

The City of Ottawa’s Planning and Growth Management Department is updating the mineral aggregate resource mapping within the City. The draft report, titled Proposed Official Plan Bedrock Mineral Aggregate Resource Designations, documents the various steps and decisions in the study that have led to the recommended mapping of additional bedrock areas in the Official Plan Review of 2013. The report and other information are available on ottawa.ca/ruralreview.

If you live on land affected by this proposal or within 500m of any proposed designation, your input is extremely important.  All feedback, whether in support or opposed, will weigh heavily in any final decision to further designate any lands as Aggregate Resource.  Letters were sent to all landowners and also to any property owner within 500m of a proposed designation.  Proposed areas are all within former Goulbourn and Marlborough Townships, west of McCordick Road/Eagleson Road.  Please visit the link about to find the map.  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact my office.  You can also contact Robin van de Lande at [email protected] (P: 613-580-2424 x43011) as he is the lead planner on this file.

Construction Update in Bells Corners

Construction at the intersection of Robertson Road and Moodie Drive began on Tuesday, August 6th. This project will likely impact residents from the Goulbourn area so I wanted to provide a heads up. Motorists and cyclists can expect traffic disruptions and delays at this busy intersection. They are advised to practice extra caution while following the direction signs around the construction zone. OC Transpo service will continue to operate through the intersection during the construction period, and pedestrian access will also be maintained.

Construction is slated for completion by early December 2013. This construction at Robertson Road and Moodie Drive intersection is a $2.6 million project that will improve traffic through the intersection and safety for commuters. This work is a component of the Network Modification Improvement and Transit Priority initiative approved by Council in 2012.

This construction work is an Ottawa on the Move project. Ottawa on the Move is about keeping our community and economy moving forward through strategic investments in a number of transportation, water, and sewer projects to build a better city and create jobs.  The Flewellyn Road, Ottawa Street and King Street resurfacing projects are also a part of Ottawa on the Move.

If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491.

Updates on LRT and the OLG

I hope everyone had a great Canada Day weekend and let’s hope the rest of the summer is a little less wet than June was.  According to farmzone.com, the average rainfall in Ottawa in June is 85mm whereas we received nearly 130mm of precipitation in June of this year.  For our local farmers and for the enjoyment of summer, hopefully we’ll have a much better July and August.

While summer is officially upon us, there is still some work to do at City Council in the coming weeks including a vote on the plan for LRT between Tunney’s Pasture and Baseline Station and another vote concerning a casino in Ottawa. I’d like to take this opportunity to discuss the upcoming vote on the casino issue that will come before the Finance & Economic Development Committee (FEDCO) on Tuesday, July 9th and rise to full Council on Wednesday, July 17th

For those new to the issue, Council first considered whether or not Ottawa was to be a willing host to a new or expanded casino in October 2012.  This was due to the Modernization Plan put forward by the Ontario Lottery & Gaming Corporation (OLG) that suggested new locations for casinos throughout Ontario.  Council voted 19-5 in favour of being a willing host, sending the message to the OLG that Ottawa should be considered for a new casino.  At that time, and with the support of residents throughout Rideau-Goulbourn, I voted against the idea as I felt the only desire of the OLG was a downtown casino and this would come at the cost of the existing Rideau-Carleton Raceway (RCR).  RCR is an integral part of our rural communities and its potential closure would result in the loss of nearly 1000 jobs, which, in my mind, would be completely unacceptable.  My opposition was not against the idea of expanding gaming, but against the potential loss of the RCR.  I was always of the mind that if we expand gaming in Ottawa or if we build a new casino in Ottawa, that it should be on the same grounds at RCR.

This brings to us to a motion before FEDCO on July 9th, put forward by Mayor Jim Watson, which states “that the Ontario Lottery & Gaming Corporation be informed, prior to the start of the RFP process, that the only location acceptable to the City of Ottawa for an expanded gaming facility is the current location at the Rideau Carleton Raceway.”  This is a welcome change in direction from the support of a downtown casino that responds directly to the overwhelming support of RCR from the residents of Ottawa.  From October until today, I have consistently heard from residents across the City, either via email or in person, if we are to see a new or expanded casino that it should be at RCR.

In recent weeks, we’ve seen one individual come forward and suggest that he should be allowed to bid on a casino for him to build on land that he currently owns.  However, at no point in the last eight months have we heard from residents of Kanata/Stittsville, or any other community for that matter, indicating that they want a new casino in their community.  A new casino in a community like Kanata/Stittsville would decimate existing restaurant and hotel businesses and create a gambling environment in a community where that environment does not currently exist.  Without the support of the people that actually live in the community, I would not support the construction of a new casino in it and nor should the elected officials that represent that community.

Rideau Carleton Raceway was established long before any new developments have encroached upon it and a considerable buffer still exists between Findlay Creek and their site on Albion Road.  It is the logical choice for an expanded casino operation and I am happy to support our call to the OLG that this be the only location considered.  I strongly encourage my colleagues on Council to do the same.   I look forward to this vote and I want to thank all of you for the support you have shown for Rideau Carleton in recent months.

Watson's Mill Beer Tasting

Join the good people at the Watson’s Mill in Manotick on Friday, July 12th, between 7:00 and 10:00pm, for their annual beer tasting event.  Your $30 event admission will include five 4oz. sample tickets redeemable at any of the brewery stations with additional sampler tickets available during the event.  Approximately 8-10 local craft breweries will be in attendance, including Hog’s Back, Kichesippi, Mill Street, Beau’s, and others.  There will be appetizers and live jazz music provided by the Swamp Water Jazz Band. Each admission ticket will be given one ballet to vote for their favourite brewery and the winning brewery will win an intimate pairing and tasting session with Indulge’s renowned Chef David Godsoe, which will take place at Watson’s Mill later in the fall. For more information, visit: https://www.facebook.com/WatsonsMill2013CraftBeer

Treats, Treasures and Open Market

The Kars Recreation Association wants to invite local residents to stop by the RA grounds between 9:00am and 3:00pm on Saturday, July 20th to mingle, browse and purchase art, crafts and homemade edibles from people in your community. Admission and parking are free.  This event coincides with the annual International Dog Show taking place on the Kars RA Grounds from Friday, July 19 until Sunday, July 21st.  The Kars RA is located at 1604 Old Wellington Street in the beautiful village of Kars.  For more information, please visit www.kars.ca

Flewellyn Road Closure

I’d really like to thank everyone on Flewellyn Road for their patience this summer as construction will affect this particular road due to three separate projects stretching the entire length of the road.  Earlier, we announced closures between Huntley Road and Eagleson Road due to the Enbridge Gas pipeline reinforcement project.  Beginning this month, we’ll also begin the resurfacing of Flewellyn Road, between Munster Road and Ashton Station Road.  The latest notice of closure is concerning the portion between Munster Road and Dwyer Hill Road for the renewal of a bridge.  This closure will begin July 2 and last until August 22.  Local and emergency traffic will maintain access and a signed detour will be in place.  Thank you again for your patience.

If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please email me at [email protected] or contact me by phone at 613-580-2491.