Orléans South-Navan Community Update | January 16th 2025

Councillor's Message

Happy New Year Orléans South—Navan, and happy 200th birthday to Ottawa! I know we’re already halfway through January (where has the time gone?), but as this is my first newsletter of 2026, I wanted to take the opportunity to wish you and yours all my very best for the year ahead.

Because January often gives us a bit of space to reflect, I wanted to pause and look back at what we were able to accomplish together in 2025. It was a busy, demanding, and incredibly rewarding year that delivered real progress for our community.

A significant portion of that work focused on transportation and infrastructure. 2025 started off with my bombshell public inquiry into the geographic imbalance in road infrastructure investment across the city, which became a city-wide turning point, drawing significant media attention and helping shine a light on long-standing east-end inequities. That work directly fed into my continued advocacy during the Transportation Master Plan Part 2 update in the summer, where I pushed hard for projects in Orléans South—Navan to be properly prioritized and funded sooner, not later by bringing forward motions to help speed up funding and delivery timelines. You had your voices heard, leading the way on all three rounds of public engagement, more than any other ward in the city. A full list of those projects I was able to secure is available here.

Construction and infrastructure progress continued across the ward, with work beginning on the Navan and Milton roundabout, the signalization of Innes and Lamarche, and the construction of the Aquaview Parkette. We also advanced modifications at the Mer Bleue and Décœur intersection, restarted the ditch maintenance sponsors group, and supported positive outcomes through negotiations with developers to improve construction management and reduce impacts on residents.

Behind the scenes, a great deal of effort also went into managing major closures, particularly along Navan Road and Brian Coburn Boulevard to ensure impacts were minimized as much as possible.

Accessibility was another major focus of mine in 2025. My motion on accessibility in parks received the Accessibility Advisory Committee’s stamp of approval and, following a strong public engagement period, was added to the City’s corporate work plan, ensuring this work moves from idea to reality. In addition, funding from my office helped deliver an accessible Sway Fun Slide at Tulip Tree Park in Bradley Estates, making the park more inclusive for families.

Parks and recreation more broadly also saw meaningful progress. I was proud to support the Navan Pavilion Project from concept to completion. Through City collaboration and securing funding via the Rural Community Building Grant and Major Capital funding, we were able to see the pavilion officially open in 2025, an achievement driven by community leadership and backed by strong municipal partnership. At the same time, I advanced the expansion of François Dupuis District Park, securing millions in funding in consecutive years to keep construction on track for later this year.

I also tested new approaches to transit by piloting the Chapel Hill Park and Ride shuttle for six weeks, exploring ways to improve connectivity while longer-term solutions continue to move forward.

In our rural areas, I took significant action on long-standing agricultural land flooding, pushing City staff and partners to focus on practical solutions within the Bear Brook watershed study and Engineer’s Report on McKinnon’s Creek.

Beyond infrastructure, 2025 was also about the people and community that makes up Orléans South—Navan. I continued working closely with all our community associations, including hosting a meeting for all Community Association Presidents as well as attending each group's monthly meetings whether it be myself or my staff. We came together at many events throughout the year, from the Millennium Park BBQ to the Pop-Up series in local parks this summer and an appreciation evening for our Rink Operators. I also co-hosted a 5 à 7 networking event with the Heart of Orléans BIA, bringing together local businesses and community leaders.

Advancing the City’s work on community gardens, community association insurance, food insecurity and supporting local businesses through the US-Canada trade war, were all important hallmarks of 2025.

In addition to continuing my work here in our community, I also spent several months supporting Ward 20 (Osgoode) through the by-election period, helping with day-to-day issues and ensuring residents had continuity of service and information. At the same time, I led the recruitment of Ottawa’s new Medical Officer of Health as Chair of Ottawa Public Health, an important process that will help guide our city’s public health system in the years ahead.

As you can tell, it was a busy year, on top of the thousands of inquiries/requests my team and I action and service via phone, email, or in person—but I wouldn’t want it any other way. Cheers to 2026!

Over the weekend, some residents who are Hydro One customers experienced power outages across Ward 19 due to high winds and upstream issues on the provincial grid. I want to thank everyone who reached out, shared information, and showed patience while crews worked to restore service—especially during cold winter weather. Power has now been fully restored, and I will continue to keep residents informed should any further issues arise with outages in the future.

As winter settles in and we dig out of a major snowstorm from yesterday, I want to extend a sincere thank you to the dedicated City crews working tirelessly to clear snow and maintain Ottawa’s industry-leading winter standards. Their commitment in cold and unpredictable weather keeps our streets safe and accessible, and I appreciate the constructive feedback residents share, which I always pass along. That same spirit of dedication is evident among the volunteers at our outdoor rinks and trails. Despite the cold, they continue to build, flood, and groom so our community can enjoy the winter season. A special thank you to all outdoor rink volunteers and to Ski Heritage East—if you see them out in the cold, please take a moment to say thank you.

The City encourages you to be a hydrant hero this winter and keep your local hydrant clear of snow. Clearing 1.5 metres around a hydrant maintains access for our firefighters and helps them keep you, your family and your community safe. Contractors are reminded to not pile snow over or against hydrants when clearing pathways and driveways in the winter.

If you are unable to clear the hydrant on your property, please call 3-1-1.

I also want to thank the Cumberland Minor Hockey Association for hosting a fantastic 2026 U-7 Fun Day this past weekend at the Ray Friel Recreation Complex. It was wonderful to see so many families out supporting young athletes, and I was proud to once again sponsor such a great community event.

I look forward to seeing you out and about and enjoying all the winter activities our community has to offer.

Stay warm,

Update on the signalization of Innes and Lamarche

Work at the intersection of Innes Road and Lamarche Avenue is now entering its final phase. Crews are completing the remaining work required to bring the new traffic control signal into operation.

Weather permitting, and subject to the availability of Ottawa Police for traffic control, signal energizing is expected to begin on Wednesday, January 21. Envari and Tomlinson will be installing, connecting, and commissioning the signal, a process expected to take approximately 5–7 days. Once this work is complete, the signal at Innes and Lamarche will be fully operational and available for use by residents. Construction crews will return to the site in spring 2026 to complete the final permanent components of the work.

Until the signal is activated, the existing traffic detour will remain in place. My office has been working with City staff to review the current traffic management set up including efforts to reduce U-turn movements on Innes Rd while maintaining safety. We've also been in touch with the Halo car wash regarding traffic back ups related to their business.

Thank you for your patience throughout this project. I appreciate the community’s understanding as we wrap up work that will improve safety and traffic flow at this intersection.

Final stretch of work on the LRT East Extension

The City of Ottawa and KEV continue to collectively work towards achieving substantial completion. I know we are all eager for an update on when the train will be operational. 

At this point, we are awaiting "substantial completion" as OC Transpo continues to work with the contractor to wrap up a small number of minor outstanding items. Substantial completion is an important contractual step that occurs when the project is largely built and functional, and the remaining work is minor enough that it does not prevent the system from being used for testing, commissioning, and trial operations. Once the milestone of substantial completion has been achieved, the City will provide a formal update to City Council and the media, including an upcoming technical briefing on trial running for the LRT East Extension.

Once a certificate of substantial completion has been issued by the Independent Certifier, trial running can begin. Trial running includes at least 14 days of rolling testing followed by a restart period if there's an issue within that prescribed 14 day period. So, the overall duration can be difficult to pinpoint—it may take the 14 days, a few weeks, or longer, depending on results and required adjustments to make the train safe for users.

I join you in your anticipation to see this major milestone for Orléans, and I'm looking forward to the testing period commencing. At the same time, I support OC Transpo in taking the time necessary to ensure the train is fully ready before advancing to this next critical phase of the project. 

Staying on top of recycling collection issues with the switch to producer responsibility

The province’s transition to the new recycling system under Circular Materials has had some early challenges, particularly during the initial rollout. In the first two weeks, collection calendars from Circular Materials’ contractor, Miller Waste Systems, did not fully align with the City’s schedule, including incorrect push notifications via their app, which understandably caused confusion for some residents.

Over the holidays, I personally contacted Miller Waste’s helpline regarding issues that were brought to my attention, and I appreciated the responsiveness of their customer service team. That said, I continue to hear feedback from residents, and I am actively raising these concerns to ensure they are addressed promptly.

I have been clear that communication and service reliability must improve as this new system settles in. I will continue advocating for residents so that recycling collection is consistent, predictable, and meets the standard our community expects.

As a reminder, for questions about recycling or to report issues with your recycling pickup, residents can contact Miller Waste directly at 1-888-852-2374 or area2@millerwaste.ca. As well, as Circulator Materials continues to fix their online system, please continue to follow the City of Ottawa collections calendar for correct information on your addresses' collection schedule.

Public engagement sessions announced for Alto high-speed rail

Alto has now announced its first round of public engagement, which includes a " drop the pin exercise" similar to one you would have seen during the Transportation Master Plan update. The Ottawa sessions will take place January 21–22 at Bayview Yards, in both English and French, from 11 am – 3 pm and 5 – 9 pm.

I have been receiving several questions about Alto, the proposed high-speed rail corridor between Quebec City and Toronto, particularly about where it may be located and whether it could affect the Prescott–Russell Recreation Trail. The alignment has not yet been decided, but I want residents to know I raised this concern directly, on the record, at committee in my role as Vice Chair of the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee when the Alto team presented in September 2025.

It is important to note that Alto is a federal public-private partnership and remains in the very early stages. The City does not control the alignment; however, staff from multiple departments are actively involved. At the same time, I continue to believe that significant attention and investment is also needed right here at home in our own local transit system with OC Transpo, and I remain heavily focused on that.

I also met with the Alto team this week directly to raise my concerns, provide feedback, and better understand the public engagement process. I will continue to closely monitor this file and advocate for meaningful consultation and transparency around any potential impacts. I will keep pressing for clarity and responsible planning as this project evolves.

Steeped in Conversation: Valentine’s Community Seniors Tea

I’m pleased to invite seniors in our community to join Councillor Matt Luloff and I for a special Valentine’s Community Seniors Tea: “Steeped in Conversation.”

This afternoon gathering is an opportunity to come together, enjoy light refreshments, and share meaningful conversation in a warm and welcoming setting.

This free event will take place on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 1 – 3 pm at the Notre-Dame-des-Champs Community Hall, 3659 Navan Road.

Along with delightful snacks and tea, there will be fun entertainment and plenty of time to connect with friends, neighbours, and your local councillors.

Space is limited and individual registration is required, so I encourage you to register early using the link here.

I can’t wait to see you there!

Community meeting at Bungalows of Chaperal Community Association

On Wednesday night, I had the opportunity to attend a packed community meeting hosted by the Education Committee of the Bungalows of Chaperal Community Association.

It was a great opportunity to connect and share updates on what’s happening around the ward. A special thanks to Mayor Mark Sutcliffe for surprising the group and answering their questions. Highlights included the 2026 Budget, crime prevention/speeding, transportation infrastructure, transit, and development in the area.

We had some great resident engagement and a fantastic Q & A period. Thank you for having me!

Putting a final bow on the Navan Pavilion Project

It was a pleasure to put the final bow on the Navan Pavilion Project by joining Luc Picknell of the Navan Community Association and Emily Keenan of the Cumberland Township Agricultural Society to unveil a permanent bronze plaque.

I was pleased to help facilitate this addition along with Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, which serves as a meaningful reminder of the countless volunteer hours, generosity, and strong community spirit that brought this project to life.

The pavilion now stands complete, and its story will be proudly told for generations to come.

Honouring outstanding youth in our community

Last weekend, I had the honour of attending the Orléans Outstanding Youth Awards at École secondaire catholique Béatrice-Desloges to help recognize some truly inspiring young people in our community.

One of this year’s recipients was Ward 19 resident Aya Abulhassan, a Grade 10 student at St. Peter High School whose leadership in the school’s audio/visual club, commitment to volunteerism, and advocacy on important social and environmental causes set an incredible example. I also presented another to Annika Jacque on behalf of the Heart of Orléans BIA. Special shoutout to two other Ward 19 recipients as well, Sami Mufti and Seneth Athula and to all the deserving award winners. 

Thank you to Fred Sherwin and the Orléans Star for continuing to shine a spotlight on the achievements of our local youth who represent the very best of our community.

OCDSB kindergarten registration is open

Was your child born in 2022? If so, it's time to think about registering for Kindergarten!

The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board has elementary schools across Ottawa and is holding Kindergarten Information Nights for parents and caregivers to learn more.

To learn more and register, visit ocdsb.ca/kindergarten or contact your local OCDSB school.

Applications open for the Community-led Greening Initiatives and Gardening Program

This program gives residents and community groups the chance to create or expand gardens and greening projects on City land.

Applications are open until February 3. Find out more here.

Help shape the future of accessible transit in Ottawa

OC Transpo is developing its 2026–2029 Accessibility Plan and is inviting residents to take part in public consultations.

Feedback from persons with disabilities, community organizations and residents will help identify and remove barriers across transit services and facilities.

Join a virtual or in-person session or complete the accessible online survey. To learn more, please click here.

Ottawa Police Service to deliver text updates for some calls

Residents who call police for help will soon have more clarity and reassurance while they wait.

Through CommunityConnect, the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is introducing a new way to keep callers informed and engaged, offering text updates and feedback opportunities that put community connection at the heart of public safety.

Callers who contact OPS for help will now receive timely text updates confirming their call was received, outlining next steps and providing a case number. These updates are designed to reduce uncertainty while residents wait for assistance, improve transparency and strengthen communication between OPS and the community.

This service will apply only to priority 3 and 4 calls where there is no immediate threat to life or crime in progress. Calls involving sexual assault, intimate partner violence, abduction, bomb threats, alarms or demonstrations will not be part of the system. To ensure public safety, real-time updates will not be sent for in-progress incidents or situations where messaging could pose a risk to those involved.

Residents will receive texts from 343-803-6032. If they call or text this number, they will receive an automated message directing them to call police emergency and non-emergency lines.

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.