Orléans South-Navan Community Update | February 27th 2026

Councillor's Message

With the Winter Olympics sadly coming to an end, I want to congratulate all of Team Canada. Our athletes represented our country with determination, resilience, and pride on the world stage. From start to finish, they demonstrated the very best of Canadian sport and sportsmanship.

While it was certainly tough to see both our men’s and women’s hockey teams come away with silver, they competed with heart and represented Canada exceptionally well.

A very special shoutout goes to Orléans’ own Ivanie Blondin — a proud graduate of École secondaire catholique Garneau — and fellow east-end native Isabelle Weidemann, who together with Valérie Maltais brought home gold in the Women’s Team Pursuit, with Ivanie also earning silver in the Women’s Mass Start. I had the privilege of joining students at Garneau to cheer on their former student and these incredible athletes. It was a proud moment for our east end community and a powerful reminder to students that world-class achievement can start right here at home.

We’re equally celebrating Rachel Homan, who grew up in the east end and attended Cairine Wilson Secondary School. She earned an Olympic bronze medal as skip of Canada’s women’s curling team which is another inspiring example of excellence rooted right here in our community.

Now, our attention turns to the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, taking place March 6–15, where Team Canada will once again represent our country on the world stage. A team of 50 Canadian athletes, supported by coaches, guides, and sport staff, will compete across Para alpine skiing, Para ice hockey, Para nordic skiing, Para snowboard, and wheelchair curling.

The Paralympic Games are a powerful reminder that sport is truly for everyone. Representation matters, especially for young people living with disabilities who deserve to see themselves reflected in elite competition, leadership, and achievement. These athletes demonstrate extraordinary resilience, skill, and determination, and their performances continue to challenge perceptions while inspiring communities across Canada.

I encourage residents to once again come together to cheer on Team Canada. Their journeys remind us that excellence takes many forms, and that inclusion, perseverance, and opportunity are at the heart of what makes both sport and community strong.

In last edition of this newsletter, I shared comments on the federal return-to-office directive and its impact on Ottawa’s transportation system. I later shared the article on Facebook, where it continued to generate significant engagement and community discussion. The piece prompted a high volume of comments, shares, and direct messages from residents eager to weigh in on how the policy will affect commuting patterns, transit reliability, and traffic congestion across the city.

The response was substantial, with extensive feedback from the community and coverage by CTV Ottawa, CBC News, and Radio-Canada. It clearly resonated with many of you.

My comments have been focused squarely on the current capacity of our infrastructure and the reliability of our transit system, and on my belief that neither can handle a mass return to work given how significantly the population of Orléans South has grown in recent years without meaningful advancement in transportation infrastructure. While relief is on the way through the widening of Brian Coburn Boulevard, the Innes Road Priority Measures, the Renaud Road Realignment, and the Cumberland Transitway, these projects are still only in the design phase. Although they were important wins for our community in the Transportation Master Plan, they remain years away from delivering meaningful new road capacity.

I appreciate everyone who took the time to share your experiences and concerns. Please know I will continue to fiercely advocate for transportation capacity and infrastructure

That conversation dovetails directly into my work at Committee. At last week’s Joint Planning & Housing and Agricultural & Rural Affairs meeting, we received Ottawa’s new population projections. It confirms Ottawa is entering a period of sustained, accelerated growth with more residents, more homes, and more jobs over the next 25 years. By 2051, Ottawa could have 1.68 million people.

Growth will increasingly take the form of apartments and compact housing, household sizes will shrink, and our population will age. Reliable transit and well-planned transportation infrastructure will matter more than ever.

My concern is not that the projections are wrong, but that Council will need to consider alternative scenarios, particularly as federal immigration targets shift.

Planning for too much growth carries different risks than planning for too little. I therefore worked with my Stittsville colleague Councillor Gower to put forward a motion directing staff to present at least one scenario that assumes no expansion of the existing urban boundary. Responsible growth means understanding our options before locking in long-term decisions.

Finally, at Public Works and Infrastructure Committee, we passed a new Access Bylaw. It provides clearer permissions for walkways and limited driveway expansion into the city’s right-of-way, while maintaining the 50 per cent maximum hard surface rule.

The goal is balance by giving residents flexibility where space allows, while preserving room for trees, stormwater management, snow storage, and on-street parking. You can learn more here.

There has been so much to celebrate in our community in recent weeks. Many families have gathered each evening to break their fast during the holy month of Ramadan, a time of reflection, generosity, and community. Others are observing the Lenten season, marked by prayer, sacrifice, and preparation leading up to Easter. We also welcomed the Lunar New Year, celebrating renewal, family, and the hope that a new year brings.

These meaningful traditions, each in their own way, reflect the diversity and shared spirit of gratitude, faith, and togetherness that make our community so special.

Proud to be wearing pink for Pink Shirt Day on Wednesday with my council colleagues in standing up against all forms of bullying and promoting kindness everywhere!

Construction activity in Trailsedge Phase 5 lands

Starting next week, Richcraft will begin clear-cutting operations on land within the future Trailsedge Phase 5 area, adjacent to the snow disposal facility. This work is being undertaken to support the development of Trailsedge Phase 4, which is the mixed-use plaza planned for the corner of Mer Bleue Road and Brian Coburn Boulevard.

You may recall a public consultation for this project back in 2021. Residents should know that environmental protections are in place. All activity will occur with a minimum 60-metre setback from Victor Cyr Woods, and in many areas the distance is closer to 150 metres, consistent with the Environmental Impact Statement. I want to be absolutely clear once again: Victor Cyr Woods is a protected environmental zone. It will not be touched, altered, or reduced in any way, it remains as is. Tree protection and snake fencing have also been installed as required.

I recognize that tree removal is always concerning for residents. As a City Councillor, I do not have the authority to stop clear-cutting on private property when it is part of a development project that has been issued the proper permits. These decisions are governed by provincial and municipal regulations, and staff are responsible for ensuring that developers comply with the rules in place. While I can advocate for stronger environmental protections, support policies that preserve trees and natural areas, and work with the community to influence future planning decisions, I cannot unilaterally halt projects that are legally approved.

That said, my office will continue to monitor the activity to ensure it remains compliant with the approved permits and environmental requirements.

Trim Road ramps closure at Highway 174 for LRT work

As part of the Stage 2 LRT project, drainage work will take place at the Trim Road and Highway 174 interchange from tonight at 7 pm until Saturday, February 28 at 7 pm.

During this time, northbound Trim Road north of Highway 174 will be fully closed. The left-turn lane from Highway 174 eastbound onto Trim Road will be closed, along with the right-turn lane from southbound Trim Road (north of the highway) to Highway 174 westbound and the right-turn lane from Highway 174 westbound onto Trim Road.

Motorists travelling eastbound or westbound on Highway 174 who need to access Trim Road north will exit at Tenth Line Road, travel north to Jeanne d’Arc Boulevard, and then head east to Trim Road. Residents north of Highway 174 seeking to access Highway 174 westbound should use the Tenth Line Road interchange. Please allow extra travel time and follow posted signage.

REMINDER - 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.

Celebrating leadership, heritage, and kindness in Ottawa

There has been no shortage of city-building underway at City Hall in recent weeks. On February 20, I attended the Mayor’s Breakfast series, which featured a candid and compelling conversation with Rick Hillier. He shared powerful insights on leadership and on Ottawa–Gatineau’s unique position as a growing hub for Canada’s defence innovation sector. General Hillier has agreed to serve on the City’s Defence Innovation Task Force, an important step toward attracting investment, talent, and opportunity to our region.

Last week, I also attended the Ottawa Board of Trade’s downtown forum, where the mayor announced the ByWard Market Action Plan — a significant redevelopment effort aimed at strengthening and revitalizing one of our city’s most iconic destinations. The details of the plan are coming forward to be considered at the Finance and Corporate Services Committee next week.

I was equally pleased to celebrate Heritage Day in Ottawa, a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the people, stories, and milestones that have shaped our city. It was wonderful to see so many dedicated historians and community leaders gathered for the occasion, including representatives from Société franco-ontarienne du patrimoine et de l'histoire d'Orléans, whose work helps preserve and share the rich history of Orléans for future generations.

To mark Ottawa’s 200th birthday, the Mayor also launched 200 Days of Kindness at a City of Kindness Symposium held at City Hall. After a year that saw troubling acts of hate and racism in our city, Council is united in its commitment to change the narrative and build a community where everyone feels safe, welcomed, and valued. I was proud to sign the Kindness Pledge and stand alongside colleagues and residents in recommitting to those shared values.

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.

Greater Avalon Community Association’s Family Day Winter Carnival

A heartfelt thank you to the Greater Avalon Community Association for organizing another fantastic Winter Carnival. It was wonderful to see so many families out enjoying the day, connecting with neighbours, and embracing everything that makes our community so special.

I always value the opportunity to chat with residents about the issues that matter most to you while sharing a few sweet treats along the way!

A special thank you to the dedicated volunteers and local vendors who helped bring this event to life. Your time and effort make gatherings like this possible.

Physical activity spotlight at François Dupuis Recreation Centre

In my role as Chair of Ottawa Public Health, I recognize the importance of physical activity and an active lifestyle. During these long winter months especially, it's easy to want to stay inside and not be as active, but the City of Ottawa Try It free recreation pass is a great way to join in some activities run through the city.

For example, I had the pleasure of joining an amazing group of seniors at François Dupuis Recreation Centre this week as we all took part in 50+Pilates!

The Try It Free recreation trial pass allows you to partake in one free activity at any city recreation centre. It's a great way to try out a program before deciding to register!

For more information about the program, visit https://ow.ly/UoWq50Yl4iH

Respecting accessible parking spaces

I want to take a moment to remind residents about the importance of respecting accessible parking spaces.

Accessible parking spaces are critical accessibility feature that allow residents with mobility challenges to safely access businesses, community centres, parks, medical appointments, and essential services. These spaces are wider to accommodate mobility devices, ramps, and support vehicles. For many permit holders, if an accessible space is unavailable, they may not be able to enter the building at all.

Holders of a valid Accessible Parking Permit (APP) are entitled to special parking privileges in public parking areas and on public roadways. These permits are issued to individuals who meet specific medical criteria, and they are tied to a person, not a vehicle.

Parking in an accessible space without a valid permit is not only inconsiderate, it is illegal. Fines are significant, but more importantly, misuse directly impacts residents who rely on those spaces every single day. Even “just for a minute” can prevent someone from attending a medical appointment, picking up medication, or participating in a community activity.

If you see an accessible parking space, please remember: if you do not have a valid permit, that space is not yours to use. Thank you for doing your part to keep our community welcoming and accessible for everyone.

Save the Larose Forest equestrian trail

A three-mile section in the middle of Larose Forest’s blue equestrian trail is in poor condition and continues to deteriorate each season. At this rate, travelling across the forest via the blue trail may become unsafe.

To prevent this, Ottawa Area Trail Riding Equestrian Community (OATREC) is raising $20,000 to restore the trail.

The goal is to repair the trail between this year and next. Please view the poster above in case you’d like to donate.

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.

Comedy FUNdraiser in Support of the Prescott-Russell Recreational Trail

Looking for a fun night out while supporting a great local cause? The Prescott-Russell Recreational Trail Comedy FUNdraiser is taking place on Saturday, March 28 at Hammond Golf, home of Broken Stick Brewery.

Enjoy an excellent lineup of comedians and an evening filled with laughter, all in support of the continued enhancement of the recreational trail enjoyed by residents across our community.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the show starting at 7:30 p.m. Guests planning to enjoy dinner beforehand are encouraged to make restaurant reservations in advance to take advantage of Broken Stick Brewery’s popular menu.

Tickets are available now. Be sure to secure yours and come out for a great evening supporting a great cause.

Reminder to complete your Vacant Unit Tax declaration

It’s time to complete your online Vacant Unit Tax (VUT) forms at ottawa.ca/vut for each residential property you own before the March 19, 2026 deadline.

A $250 late fee will be applied to all declarations filed after the deadline until April 30, 2026.

There are several ways for residents to submit their declaration including online, by phone, or at a Client Service Centre.

Join the conversation at Para Transpo Talk

OC Transpo will be hosting a series of drop-in sessions from March 2 to 4 for Para Transpo customers, along with their families, companions and support persons.

This is your chance to speak directly with staff, ask questions and share your feedback

No registration required. Learn more here: https://bit.ly/3OYGTZc

Plant Your Place is back!

The City’s Plant Your Place! program returns in 2026 with two ways to get a free tree:

• City-Wide Tree Distribution: Pick up a free tree and plant it yourself.

• Full-Service Tree Planting: Get a free tree planted for you if you live in a Priority Area for tree planting.

Registration opens March 2. Learn more: www.plantyourplace.ca