Orléans South-Navan Community Update | February 13th 2026

Councillor's Message

Let's hear it for our Canadian athletes! It’s been a week since the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics kicked off, and here in Ottawa’s east end we have even more reason to feel proud. Several Team Canada athletes competing on the world stage have roots right here in our community. For a full list, check out Ottawa Sports Pages excellent breakdown here.

From every sweep to every stride of the skate, residents across Orléans South-Navan have been cheering on these hometown athletes. Their journeys are a reminder that world-class talent can grow from local rinks and community programs right here in Ward 19.

If you want to keep the excitement going while supporting local businesses, you can catch the games at Orléans South favourites including The Barley Mow on Tenth Line, Broadway Bar & Grill Portobello, Shoeless Joe’s on Innes, Boston Pizza Innes, St. Louis Bar & Grill on Tenth Line, Chuck’s Roadhouse on Trim, and Wild Wing on Innes.

Let’s continue showing our athletes we’re behind them all the way!

On Saturday, I had the opportunity to welcome Mayor Mark Sutcliffe to the rural parts of Ward 19, where we toured several agricultural businesses in Sarsfield and Navan and spoke directly with local families who operate them every day. These visits are always valuable because they ground our policy discussions into real experiences, from rising costs and workforce pressures to the importance of predictable infrastructure and responsive City services.

Local agricultural businesses are the backbone of rural Ottawa, sustaining our economy, preserving farmland and open space, strengthening food security, and anchoring community life through jobs and stewardship. Thank you to Laplante Poultry Farms, Brabantdale Farms, and Domaine Perrault Winery for opening your doors and sharing your perspectives with us.

Our conversations connected closely to the recent Rural Summit update presented through the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee last week. We reviewed the progress made on all ten priorities identified through the Rural Summit, including the doubling of the ditch maintenance budget to improve roadside water management for farms and villages, the creation of rural-specific traffic signal priorities to enhance safety on country roads, and ongoing efforts to streamline planning approvals so routine farm applications move more quickly and with less red tape. We also discussed the importance of applying a rural lens to infrastructure projects, ensuring roads continue to accommodate agricultural equipment and reflect rural realities—not just urban design standards. While meaningful progress has been made, there is more work ahead, and we look forward to the next Rural Summit in the next term of Council to build on this momentum and continue advancing rural priorities.

On February 1, I was grateful to attend the launch of Black History Month.

This event was carefully organized, bringing together community leaders, artists, activists, and residents of Ottawa's African, Caribbean, and Black communities to celebrate history, culture, excellence, and influence.

There were so many highlights, including a standout moment with the unveiling of an OC Transpo bus mural showcasing the work of outstanding local talent including Stefan Keyes and Angelique Francis.

The Royal Canadian Mint has also unveiled its 2026 commemorative coin celebrating Black History Month. This special collector coin is part of the Mint's annual “Commemorating Black History” series and, for 2026, features adinkra symbols, traditional visual motifs of the Akan people of West Africa.

Throughout February, I encourage everyone to take advantage of the many opportunities to learn, celebrate, support, and participate in events happening across our city as part of Black History Month. Thank you to Black History Ottawa and all the organizers, artists, and partners who made it such a memorable and uplifting start to the month.

This Sunday, February 15 is National Flag of Canada Day!

It truly is a wonderful reminder to show our national pride, especially during these unprecedented times. This past Saturday, I had the honour of marking Flag Day at the annual Flag Day Dinner, proudly hosted and organized by Ward 19 resident Jay Sanko. I was pleased to sponsor the event once again this year and to join so many community members, veterans, and colleagues in recognizing the meaning behind our flag and the service it represents.

This year’s dinner was held at a new venue, City Hall’s Jean Pigott Place, which provided a fitting and familiar setting for such an important occasion. Evenings like this are a meaningful reminder of the sacrifices made by our veterans and the responsibility we share to honour that service with gratitude and respect.

I’m grateful to Jay and his wife Natalie for their continued leadership in sustaining this tradition, and to everyone who helped make the evening such a thoughtful tribute.

A reminder that city services are impacted by Family Day on Monday, February 16. My office is also closed. For a list of schedule changes, please click here.

REMINDER – closure of Lamarche Avenue until February 20 & update on short- and long-term solutions for Halo Car Wash

Lamarche Avenue remains closed until February 20 as construction work continues on underground water infrastructure. All closures are always carefully reviewed before approval, but I recognize this one has been particularly disruptive given several compounding factors.

Signal timing has been adjusted at Innes and Ventus, live monitoring cameras have been installed, snowbanks cut back, no-parking restrictions temporarily added on de Jargeau, Lumen, and Ludis, and construction operations tightened to improve sightlines and keep lanes clear.

I also met with the owner of the Halo car wash to review both immediate and longer-term solutions. The president acknowledged the location is experiencing extremely high demand and agreed more action is required. In the short term, attendants have been instructed to actively manage the line and keep vehicles as close to the curb as possible, and customer notifications have been sent discouraging roadway queuing. 

For longer-term relief, City staff are working with Halo to pursue a site plan revision that would review the access configuration to reduce spillover.

Snow has also compounded the situation. Crews completed proactive clearing three separate times last week, and after observing conditions during Saturday’s storm, they adjusted operations, so Ventus is now treated as a priority level one route and included on a salting beat during winter events. This should significantly reduce accumulation and help keep traffic moving while the closure remains in place.

Emergency access has also been a key consideration throughout this closure. Before approving the work, City staff confirmed the neighbourhood would continue to have uninterrupted emergency vehicle access via Ventus Way. Temporary road closures are only permitted where at least one dependable route remains available, which is the same standard applied across many Ottawa communities designed with a single entrance, cul-de-sacs, or new build communities still growing. With Ventus substantially completed and able to safely function as the access route during the closure, staff reviewing the file determined that a secondary access point is not required. When Ventus was previously still under construction and could not reasonably accommodate diverted traffic, additional mitigation measures were in place.

For additional reassurance, the City retains the authority to require Lamarche to reopen on short notice if conditions change or emergency operations require it. The contractor must maintain a 24/7 contact and be prepared to restore access immediately if directed.

I know road closures are never easy, and they are not taken lightly. Thank you again for your patience while this necessary work is completed and longer-term solutions are advanced. Please know that I am advocating on your behalf and reacting in real-time to make adjustments.

Full closure of a portion of Compass Street continues

To support the future Richcraft development at 640 Compass, the contractor is required to install critical underground infrastructure that can only be complete by cutting across both lanes of traffic.

As a result, Compass Street will be fully closed from Rainrock Crescent to Axis Way until Monday, March 9, 2026. Local access will be maintained for the eight homes within the closure at all times.

Thank you for your understanding.

Federal return-to-office announcement and the reality facing Orléans South

You may have seen the federal government’s recent announcement last week expanding its return-to-office requirements.

Beginning in July 2026, executives will be expected onsite five days a week and most federal employees at least four days a week.For many cities, that might be primarily a workplace policy discussion. In Ottawa, and especially in the east end, it is also a matter of transportation policy.

When Council debated a similar direction for municipal employees last fall, I could not support endorsing a full-time return-to-office approach. Standing alone on that position in the east, the view from Orléans South is understandably different. Here, the impact is not theoretical; it is immediate and intensified. My concern then wasn’t about productivity or accountability, and it isn’t now. It was about whether our city is physically prepared for a large, simultaneous increase in commuting. Let me be clear, given the growth we've experienced in recent years, I don't believe our transportation network can handle it.

The reality is that in growing suburban communities like Orléans South, commuting options are limited and beyond its breaking point. Highway 174, Innes, and Brian Coburn already operate over capacity during peak periods. When transit reliability falters, residents have little practical alternative but to drive. Even modest increases in travel demand can quickly cascade into longer commutes, congestion on local streets, and added pressure on families’ time and budgets. Your quality of life diminishes.

Over the past few years, thousands of residents have chosen to live in the east end because housing is more attainable, and communities are growing. But transportation investment has not kept pace with that growth. I have repeatedly raised that development and population increases are outstripping the infrastructure meant to support them from roads, transit capacity, and reliable alternatives. I have been relentless in pressing the case that the east must be funded in proportion to its growth. We’ve made meaningful progress in identifying and prioritizing major infrastructure projects — the widening of Brian Coburn, the Renaud Realignment, Innes Transit Priority Measures, and the Cumberland BRT — but these are significant capital undertakings that remain in the design phase. They are complex and costly, and the tangible relief residents are looking for will only come once they are fully funded and built.

A large shift toward daily commuting across multiple levels of government and major employers risks compounding that imbalance all at once.

I want to be clear: in-person collaboration has value, and many roles require it. This is not an argument for fully remote work. It is an argument for coordination and realism. Workplace policies should align with the capacity of the transportation system that supports them. Otherwise, the impact is felt not in boardrooms, but in kitchens, in lost family time, higher commuting costs, and longer days for residents.

The City of Ottawa does not control federal workplace policy, but we do see firsthand how these decisions affect communities. I will continue advocating that major employment decisions and infrastructure planning must move together, not separately. Until we have made meaningful progress improving transit reliability and expanding transportation infrastructure capacity, sudden increases in mandatory commuting will continue to land hardest on suburban residents, particularly on those in Orléans South.

Update on the LRT East Extension from yesterday's Transit Committee

The update we received yesterday at Transit Committee regarding the Line 1 East Extension to Trim Road was extremely disappointing.

The 12.5-kilometre extension from Blair to Trim is nearing the “substantial completion” phase: the point at which the requirements of the project agreement are contractually satisfied. This is a significant milestone, but it does not mean the line is ready to carry passengers.

We have been advised that only a limited number of items remain outstanding before substantial completion can be achieved. They include retrofitting station support systems, resolving platform edge camera functionality, and making targeted rail infrastructure adjustments. Each of these must be addressed to ensure the system meets required standards for safety, reliability, and performance.

Following substantial completion, the project moves into trial running: a critical phase where trains operate on a full-service schedule to demonstrate consistent reliability before customers can board. Yesterday, staff advised for the first time that trial running will not begin before April at the earliest. Only a few months ago, this had been described as “achievable in early 2026.” That shift is significant.

In my last newsletter, I shared that the ongoing fleet issues were not the cause of the delay to the East Extension. That currently remains true. The recent spalling issue has reduced train availability, but it has not affected the timeline for achieving substantial completion. That said, it is clear there is a risk to completing trial running if sufficient vehicles are not restored in time. It's my understanding the next phase will not be able to proceed until an adequate number of trains are consistently available.

I know how frustrating this is for east-end riders who have been counting on this service. Know that I share your exasperation. Residents deserve timelines grounded in operational readiness, not optimism. I will continue pressing for transparent reporting, realistic scheduling, and accountability, and I will keep you informed as updates are provided.

Strong turnout for the Navan Landfill expansion open house

On Wednesday evening, residents gathered at Le Rendez-vous des aînés francophones d’Ottawa for the first open house regarding the proposed Navan Landfill expansion. The session was organized and scheduled by the private proponent Waste Connections Canada. I attended to listen, speak with residents, and ensure community concerns were clearly heard as part of the development of the Terms of Reference which will guide the Environmental Assessment process moving forward.

It was encouraging to see how many people from the community took the time to participate, ask detailed questions, and share thoughtful feedback about potential impacts on the surrounding community. Public engagement matters in a multi-year review like this, and strong turnout helps ensure local perspectives are part of the record.

I want to reiterate that I do not support the proposed Navan landfill expansion, given it would reverse the 2007 commitment that there would be no future expansions at this site. That said, the decision lies with the Province, not the City. Since the expansion was announced in November 2025, I have met with the proponent, City staff, and various community stakeholders, and will continue to closely monitor the process and advocate for residents throughout. I appreciate everyone who came out to stay informed and make their voices heard. When the next open house is scheduled, I will make sure to notify the community through my regular channels.

Connecting with seniors over tea

Yesterday, seniors from across Orléans joined Councillor Luloff and I for our Valentine’s Community Seniors Tea, “Steeped in Conversation,” at Notre-Dame-des-Champs Community Hall.

It was a relaxing afternoon with light refreshments, entertainment, and most importantly, conversation! Spending time with seniors at events like this is always meaningful to me, and it was wonderful to hear directly about their stories, ideas, and the priorities they see for our community.

Thank you to everyone who came out and helped make this afternoon such a warm and enjoyable experience. My heart is full.

Celebrating the groundbreaking of a new Orléans South french public high school

Construction has officially begun on the future Orléans South french public high school, marking a major milestone for our growing community.

Beyond adding much-needed classroom space closer to home, the project represents an important investment in French-language public education in the east end. Expanding local options means students will be able to continue their education in French without leaving their community, strengthening accessibility for families and supporting the long-term vitality of our Francophone population as the area continues to grow.

Thank you to the provincial government for this investment, and to the Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario and all partners who worked together to bring this project forward.

This new high school is located off Jerome Jodin Drive, beside the new elementary school currently being built on Monardia Way.

A gentle reminder that I nor the City of Ottawa make decisions on where, when, and what type of schools are built. Those questions are better directed at your MPP or school trustee.

Ottawa Police east-end community consultation

Last week, my office took part in the Ottawa Police Service East District’s community consultation as OPS begins developing its refreshed approach to community policing. Sessions like this are important because they ensure neighbourhood experiences shape how policing works on the ground.

Hearing directly from residents and community partners helps identify local priorities early and supports a more preventive approach, rather than reacting after problems grow. By sharing perspectives now, we help lay the groundwork for practical actions that reflect the day-to-day realities of Ward 19.

During the discussion, feedback was given on how district policing should function locally, how issues can be identified and prioritized, and how solutions can be developed collaboratively with residents and community organizations.

Thank you to OPS staff for continuing this open and constructive dialogue.

Ottawa Fire urges residents to clear vents

After significant snowfall and drifting conditions we’ve experienced recently, Ottawa Fire Services has responded to multiple carbon monoxide incidents caused by exterior vents becoming blocked by snow. In one case, readings inside a home exceeded 200 parts per million, highlighting how quickly this can become dangerous.

Heavy snow and wind can easily cover or plug outdoor exhaust points, preventing gases from safely venting outside and allowing carbon monoxide to build up indoors. Residents are encouraged to take a few minutes to check around their homes and clear any snow from gas meters, exhaust vents, water heater and furnace exhausts, and dryer vents.

A simple check can make a major difference in keeping your household safe during the winter months.

THIS MONDAY - Celebrate Family Fun Day with the Greater Avalon Community Association

Join the Greater Avalon Community Association for a day filled with family fun!

On Monday, February 16, from 2 – 4 pm at Aquaview Community Centre (318 Aquaview Drive), enjoy a maple syrup kiosk, kids’ activities, a cozy firepit, face painting, snow painting, and so much more!

Don’t forget to bring your reusable mugs for hot chocolate as we work together to reduce waste.

Bring the whole family and celebrate Family Day with your community.

East-end coyote virtual information session

I wanted to share information about an upcoming east-end virtual information session co-hosted by Councillor Matt Luloff, Councillor Laura Dudas and myself in partnership with City staff and Coyote Watch Canada.

The session will take place on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at 7 pm and will be held on Zoom. The evening will include a presentation by Coyote Watch Canada, followed by a question-and-answer period, and will focus on coyote awareness and safety during peak coyote season.

This is a great opportunity for residents to learn more about coyote behaviour, how to reduce attractants, and what to do if you encounter a coyote in your neighbourhood. City staff will also be available to help answer questions and share information about how the City monitors and responds to wildlife-related concerns.

Residents can register in advance using the following link here.

Climate and your cash event in March

Learn about climate-aware finances, banking & insurance!

Climate & Your Cash is your opportunity to discover sustainably focused individuals and organizations creating real change in the financial, investment and insurance worlds!

This is a speaker series on the impact of climate change on our personal finances with the goal of providing Ottawa residents with tips and practical advice on:

• divesting retirement funds and banking from Fossil Fuel industries

• what to look for in investment/financial organizations when re-investing retirement savings in a zero-carbon future

• strategies for climate-aware investing at the beginning of a career to early retirement

• opportunities for re-investing in your local community

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own cup to enjoy coffee and cookies!

To purchase your ticket, please click here.

Your waste collection day may change starting March 30

Starting Monday, March 30, your waste collection day may change due to the City’s new curbside collection contract. All your waste including garbage, organics, leaf and yard waste, and recycling will still be picked up on the same day but about half of Ottawa households will have a new collection day. 

To see if this impacts you, view your collection calendar online or in the Ottawa Waste Collection Calendar app. If you are affected by this change, you will see your updated collection day on the week of Monday, March 30 and beyond. 

Please note: There will be no curbside collection on Good Friday, April 3, or Easter Monday, April 6; pick-up will be delayed by one day for the remainder of the week. As a result, your collection day for the week following Easter Monday may not be your new collection day going forward. If you are signed up for weekly collection reminders, you can continue to rely on them.

The frequency of garbage, green bin, leaf and yard waste, and recycling collection is not changing. 

A letter will be sent to all residents who receive curbside collection to let them know about the change.

What else is changing with the new curbside collection contract:

• Leaf and yard waste will continue to be collected weekly, but it must be set out separately from your green bin in a reusable container labelled “Leaf and Yard Waste” or in brown paper bags.

• As part of the transition to the new collection schedule, some households may experience two weeks of the same waste stream being collected. To accommodate this disruption, all residents may place up to six garbage items at the curb on your scheduled garbage collection day between March 30 and April 24.

When school’s out, City of Ottawa summer camps are in

Even though it’s snowy and cold, families are already planning for summer, looking for camps that are fun and close to home. City of Ottawa camps offer balanced activities led by trained staff in your neighbourhood, designed to keep children active, social and having fun.

We have camps to suit all interests at register.ottawa.ca like the Camp Ottawa series, Fun and Friends series, French camps, sports camps, science camps, art camps, martial arts camps, virtual camps and more.

Register for summer camps February 26.