Orléans South-Navan Community Update | November 9th, 2025

Councillor's Message

Happy Sunday! I know you're used to this email arriving in your inboxes on Friday evenings, but it’s been a busy stretch for me at City Hall serving on seven committees in nine days! I appreciate your patience as I took extra time this weekend between community events to carefully compile and review all the important updates below. As you’ll see further down in this newsletter, there are several key files moving forward and heading to the public consultation phase, all while budget season is now fully underway. On that point, thank you to everyone who came out to both the east-end and rural budget consultations to share your feedback. Your insights help shape the decisions we make in the coming weeks.

This Tuesday marks Remembrance Day. It’s important that we each take a moment to pause and reflect on the service and sacrifices of our veterans. I was honoured to help kick off the Royal Canadian Legion’s Poppy Campaign with Branch 632 at Place d’Orléans last Friday, alongside Councillor Tim Tierney, MP Marie-France Lalonde, and MPP Stephen Blais. You can find details on local ceremonies further down in my newsletter.

If you’re wondering how you can support our veterans whether by volunteering, donating, or simply learning more, please visit www.rcl632.ca.

On Friday, City Council officially endorsed the plan for Lansdowne 2.0. I want to thank those who have reached out over the past two weeks, and over the years, to share your perspective on this major city-building project. Lansdowne is a meaningful part of Ottawa’s identity, and people care deeply about its future.

After years of carefully reviewing complex reports, I am confident that moving forward with this project was the right decision. I know some residents may still have questions, so I want to take a moment to clarify the key details. A lot of information has circulated in the community that was at times incomplete or inaccurate, and I fully understand how that can make it challenging to feel confident in large, complex decisions like this one.

My commitment has always been to approach these matters thoughtfully, carefully, and based on solid research. I want to assure you that this decision was made only after extensive study and consideration. Over the past six years, Lansdowne 2.0 has been one of the most scrutinized and refined projects in the City’s history. It has undergone multiple independent reviews and audits by external experts (including KPMG and Ernst & Young), extensive financial modeling, and thousands of public submissions. Council has challenged the numbers repeatedly, and the plan has evolved as a result, strengthening the project in response. 

It’s important to be clear: there’s no version of this discussion where the City avoids investing in Lansdowne. Because the City owns the infrastructure, it’s our responsibility to repair or replace it, just like we do for other City facilities (like the renovations at the Navan Arena or Ray Friel Recreation Centre this year, for example). In 2021, Council received detailed reports confirming that the north-side stands and arena — both over 60 years old — are functionally obsolete. Council then voted unaimously to replace them rather than attempt another costly, short-term renovation. The analogy I used at the time still applies: Lansdowne is like an old car. At a certain point, even the best mechanic will tell you to stop sinking money into repairs that are only band aid solutions and not giving you your money’s worth: it’s time to buy a new one.

Typically, City recreation facilities are 100% taxpayer-funded, but Lansdowne is different. Because of the partnership with OSEG and the diverse revenue streams generated on-site, this redevelopment model operates very differently from a traditional municipal project. Under the Lansdowne 2.0 model, the City will cover only 31% of the capital costs and 0% of the operating costs.

There’s been a lot of confusion about the numbers, so I want to be clear: there is no $418 million sitting in a bank account that could be redirected to other projects like transit, roads, or social services. The project is being funded through long-term borrowing that’s already built into the City’s financial plan— with no tax increase to residents. Why this is possible and what makes Lansdowne a unique capital project is that much of the cost will be offset by new revenues generated at Lansdowne itself, including reliable income from tourism, retail leases, ticket surcharges, and the new residential towers. The City’s cost share is projected at roughly $131 million or $113 million, depending on if we secure provincial or federal funding. For that investment, we’ll receive a new event centre capable of hosting concerts and community events, modern stands with better accessibility and sightlines, $19.4 million dedicated to affordable housing, and energy-efficient buildings that will cut emissions by more than 31 percent. It’s also expected to drive significant economic impact with $590 million in GDP, 4,900 jobs, and 837,000 annual visitors.

The alternative—postponing a decision—also comes at a cost. Delaying reconstruction for a decade is projected to drive costs up to $750 million, making inaction ultimately the most expensive option.

From a financial perspective, this investment actually reduces our infrastructure deficit by putting in place a sustainable, long-term plan for a failing City asset. As the City’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) explained, maintaining the aging facility would continue to divert millions from other capital priorities — to the tune of approximately $8-12 million per year — without providing new amenities or generating meaningful revenue. By moving forward with Lansdowne 2.0, we are leveraging new revenue streams to offset costs and protecting our limited infrastructure funding for other community needs. Our CFO called it one of the strongest financial strategies he's worked on in his career.

Given the complexity of this project (and the length of this newsletter!), I wanted to share a few quick facts that may help put the situation into perspective:

• City’s planned financial share: 31% of capital costs and 0% of operating costs, $131 million (or $113 million if provincial or federal funding is secured).

• Air rights sale: $65 million in revenue, with nearly $20 million directed to affordable housing.

• Project due diligence: Six years of planning, $22 million in studies, and multiple independent audits.

• Tender process: Fixed-price contract; the winning bid matched staff estimates after more than 1,500 clarifying questions — meaning the numbers are market-tested and realistic.

• Environmental impact: New facilities will achieve Silver LEED certification, cutting energy use by 36% and greenhouse gas emissions by 31%.

• Economic impact: $590 million in GDP, 4,900 jobs, and 837,000 annual visitors — including 140,000 from outside Ottawa.

• Fiscal responsibility: No tax increase to residents; costs built into the City’s long-range financial plan, with much expected offset by Lansdowne-generated revenues.

• Deferred maintenance: Current costs of $8–$10 million per year with no new amenities or revenue; waiting another decade could push replacement costs to $750 million.

• City control: The City, not OSEG, will lead the design and construction and retain ownership of the new event centre, north-side stands, and parking facilities.

• Accessibility and inclusion: Major upgrades will make the space more accessible and welcoming — a response to powerful testimony from residents with mobility challenges.

• Public consultation: No other project in Ottawa’s history has been through more public input or oversight — including two Auditor General audits and a Fairness Commissioner review.

As a member of the Audit Committee, I had the opportunity to question both staff and the Auditor General directly on the findings of her latest report. I asked her if the risks identified are typical of any complex capital project, or unique to Lansdowne, she confirmed the former. While the report highlighted understandable risks given the project’s complexity, staff clarified that the tariff environment, construction inflation, and material costs have all been accounted for in the fixed tender price, and assured councillors that we are not exposing taxpayers to unreasonable risk. The audit also confirmed that the City has learned lessons from past projects by strengthening oversight, risk monitoring, and cost control mechanisms. The winning bid came in almost exactly on estimate, confirming that the numbers are market-tested and competitive. 

There’s been some misunderstanding and disappointment expressed by the Ottawa PWHL team regarding the size of the new arena at Lansdowne, and I want to acknowledge that. The team has been an incredible source of pride for our city, and their success in their first two seasons has shown the strong appetite for professional women’s hockey in Ottawa. The new event centre can accommodate 6,600 for hockey games and over 7,000 for concerts, though this represents a reduction in seating compared with the current arena. The new space has been designed to size hosting a diverse mix of medium-sized events like concerts, comedy shows, community gatherings, and sports — the kinds of events Ottawa currently lacks functional space for. Our city already has a large-scale arena at the Canadian Tire Centre, and the goal with Lansdowne 2.0 is to create a venue that complements, not duplicates, existing facilities. The Ottawa Charge currently uses Lansdowne 13 nights of the year, and I think we’re all hopeful that before long, the popularity of the PWHL will outgrow TD Place and make the move to the City’s NHL arena, ideally a new downtown one, of course. In the meantime, I am pleased that the new design will provide amenities Charge players have asked us for, such as purpose-built women's locker rooms.

While I, too, am disappointed that we weren’t able to find common ground on the arena concept in the short term, increasing its size would have come at a significant cost — an additional $80 to $100 million — and would have required encroaching further on the greenspace at Lansdowne Park. 

Through the PWHL’s delegation to Council, it became clear that their concerns are less about the arena’s size itself, and more about revenue opportunities and the financial viability of the team — which, understandably, can go hand in hand. I want to assure all Charge fans that the City is fully committed to working with the PWHL team to help ensure their financial sustainability and long-term success here in Ottawa. We value what they bring to the community, and we want them to continue calling Ottawa home for many years to come.

Importantly, the new north side stands and arena will be built to Silver LEED Certification, incorporating modern sustainability standards that reflect Ottawa’s climate goals. These designs are expected to deliver a 36% decrease in energy use and a 31% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to the existing facilities. Not only serving to reduce operating costs but deliver a big step forward for greener city infrastructure.

Across the marathon two-day, 20-hour committee meeting, twice as many community members spoke in support of the project as opposed to it. Among them were several accessibility advocates who shared deeply personal stories about how difficult it is to move around the current arena, and how it makes attending events stressful rather than enjoyable. Their voices were powerful reminders that this renewal isn’t just about bricks and mortar, projected revenue and seating capacity, it’s about inclusion and ensuring every resident can fully experience these community spaces.

I understand the skepticism, it’s healthy and warranted. This plan isn’t perfect, because no plan ever is. I’ve voiced concerns about the volatility of the sports projections, and yes, every major construction project carries risks around timelines and costs. But backing away from a decision doesn’t eliminate those risks—it only increases the long-term financial burden. And delay is the real financial risk, because every year we wait, inflation drives costs higher and the price of inaction grows. The facility is aging, and eventually, we will have no choice but to act. Better to do it now, with a solid plan, than later, in crisis.

To be transparent with you, these big decisions are never simple, and I always take time to weigh every perspective, often tying myself in knots before the final vote. But I want to be clear: after years of study, I’m very confident that moving forward with this project is the best choice we could have made. I’m excited that we get an opportunity to deliver brand-new public event spaces for our residents at a third of what they would typically cost. As someone who has regularly visited Lansdowne since the days of 1.0, I’m genuinely looking forward to seeing how this next chapter will bring new opportunities for recreation and community connection, while protecting an important public space where Ottawa gathers to cheer, celebrate and enjoy life together.

I hope you’re enjoying a wonderful weekend, and I look forward to seeing you at one of this month’s many public consultations as we work together to move our community forward.

Stay warm,

Left turn restriction and detour at Innes and Lamarche for signalization work starts Monday

There will be a left hand turn restriction and subsequent detour on Innes Road and Lamarche Avenue starting Monday, November 10. This work is being completed to minimize traffic impacts and is part of the installation of a new traffic control signal to improve safety and accessibility at the intersection.

During construction, left turns into and out of Lamarche Avenue will be temporarily restricted. Motorists will be detoured from Lamarche Avenue via Argonaut Street, east on Jargeau Road, and north on Ventus Way to reach Innes Road. The same route applies in reverse for entering the community.

Temporary signage will be in place to direct motorists through the detour. Work is expected to occur during overnight hours as well.

It is expected that the detour will be in place until mid-December 2025. 

Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout construction. Temporary sidewalk closures may occur, with signage in place to guide pedestrians safely around the work area as currently in place. Cyclists will be asked to share the single open lane with traffic or to dismount and use the signed pedestrian route.

No major OC Transpo service changes are expected; however, minor delays may occur due to lane restrictions. Riders are encouraged to check OC Transpo Alerts for the latest information.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as this work is completed. These improvements will enhance safety and accessibility for all road users at the Innes Road and Lamarche Avenue intersection.

REMINDER - traffic control set-up underway on Brian Coburn Boulevard for Groupe Heafey development

Reminder that construction work in this location involves lane shifting, requiring flag personnel to be on-site from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays to assist OC Transpo buses and construction vehicles accessing the site as needed. This flagging operation is not intended to manage general traffic —two-way traffic is to be maintained throughout the project.

My office received reports that the contractor had Brian Coburn down to one lane, and we quickly and sternly reminded them that two-way traffic is required at all times throughout this work. 

The sidewalk and multi-use pathway (MUP) on the south side of Brian Coburn are closed. Please follow a temporary pedestrian detour through the Chapel Hill Park & Ride MUP.

The work is anticipated to be completed in the coming weeks. While I recognize that Brian Coburn is already operating well beyond capacity, we’ve been able to negotiate a construction plan that minimizes the impact on residents and transit users alike. Thank you in advance for your continued patience as this work moves forward. 

Culvert replacement will fully close section of the Prescott-Russell Trail for one week

Crews will be fixing a failing culvert along the Prescott-Russell Trail between Sarsfield Road and Birchgrove Road.

As a result, that section of the trail will be fully closed on Monday, November 10 until Friday, November 14.

Thank you for your understanding while this work takes place.

Province moves ahead with ban on Automated Speed Enforcement

In early October, I shared my concerns about Premier Ford’s announcement to ban Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) cameras on municipal roads. This week, that decision became official.

The Province of Ontario has passed Bill 56, the Building a More Competitive Economy Act, 2025, which includes amendments to the Highway Traffic Act that will revoke municipalities’ legal authority to use ASE cameras in community safety and school zones.

Existing ASE cameras will continue operating until next Friday, November 14, after which municipalities will no longer have the authority to use them. City staff are now reviewing the operational, safety, and budget impacts of this change and will report back through the upcoming 2026 budget process and the Road Safety Action Plan Annual Report, expected in Q1 2026.

As I’ve said before, speeding is the number one concern I hear from residents concerning nearly every road in our community. This decision was made unilaterally by the province, and I’m disappointed that this evidence-based, community-supported safety tool is being taken away. I will continue to advocate for fair, effective, and data-driven road safety solutions that keep our neighbourhoods safe, especially for our most vulnerable road users.

2025 Remembrance Day ceremonies

If you’re looking for a Remembrance Day ceremony in the east-end, there are a few happening including:

• The Legion Orleans Branch 632 will be hosting its annual Remembrance Day ceremony at 800 Taylor Creek Drive. Please come before 10:45 am.

• Navan Community Association is hosting its annual ceremony and wreath laying at the Navan Cenotaph in front of the Navan Arena (1295 Colonial) on Tuesday, November 11 beginning at 10:45 am.

• The Cumberland Remembrance Day Ceremony alongside the Cumberland Community Association, Cumberland Lions, St. Andrews Church, St. Faustina Parish, Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and others at 2557 Old Montreal Road on Tuesday, November 11 at 10:30 am. 

The National Remembrance Day Ceremony will take place at the National War Memorial on Tuesday, November 11. The ceremony will begin at approximately 10:30 am.

This year, an RCMP Blackhawk helicopter will fly over the site at the end of the ceremony, paying homage to those who have given their lives in service to Canada. The 2025 ceremony will also recognize the 25th anniversary of the Tomb of the Unknown Solider – a symbolic and special site that represents Fallen Canadians including those whose identities will forever remain unknown.

Celebrating local recipients of the 2025 Order of Ottawa

The Order of Ottawa, established in 2012, celebrates outstanding citizens who have demonstrated excellence in their fields and made significant contributions to our community. This prestigious civic honour recognizes individuals whose leadership and service have brought pride and benefit to the City of Ottawa.

Congratulations to all of this year’s recipients and a special shout-out to two familiar faces from our community.

Wyatt McWilliams, a lifelong Navan resident and farmer on Perrault Road, has long been a pillar in our community and known for his long-standing contributions to local agriculture, rural affairs and his tireless fundraising efforts. 

Tahawar Rana, President of the Masjid Bilal Islamic Society of Cumberland, is a respected community leader whose work at the mosque on Innes Road continues to foster connection, compassion, and inclusivity across our community and city.

I am so proud to see both local leaders recognized for their lasting impact and service to others. I cannot wait to celebrate your achievements on November 27 with a ceremony and medal presentation at City Hall.

Breaking ground on the new MiFO Cultural Centre

Last Monday, I was proud to join my east-end colleagues and Mayor Mark Sutcliffe to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new MiFO Cultural Centre.

For 40 years, Le Mouvement d’implication francophone d’Orléans (MIFO) has been a cultural cornerstone in the east end, where countless residents have come together to celebrate, to learn, and to grow. The  ceremony was a testament to what can be achieved when community, passion, and perseverance come together.

Originally inaugurated in 1985, MIFO’s current facility has served residents well but has reached the end of its useful life. The organization’s growth and evolving programs now demand modern, accessible, and versatile spaces to better reflect the diverse needs of Francophones, francophiles, bilingual families, and all who participate in MiFO’s programming.

The new three-storey MIFO will be built on the site of the existing facility and will feature a gymnasium, multipurpose performance hall, art gallery, and music school, along with a welcoming café and gathering space that will continue to bring the community together for generations to come.

This transformative project will ensure that MIFO continues to serve as a hub for creativity, connection, and culture in Orléans and beyond.

Public information session on the Bear Brook Watershed study

South Nation Conservation (SNC), together with municipalities, community partners, and local stakeholders, is leading a multi-year study to plan for the future of the Bear Brook Watershed.

The Study webpage has been launched on the SNC website: Bear Brook Watershed Study | South Nation Conservation Authority It includes a story map that highlights key findings from the characterization phase of the study. Material is offered in both English and French.

The first public information session is scheduled for Thursday November 13, 2025, from 6 – 8 pm at the Bearbrook Community Centre (8720 Russell Rd, Ottawa).

The goal of this first PIC is to introduce the study and present findings from the characterization report.

Please note that this study is separate from the work being done on the McKinnon’s Creek Engineer’s Report.

Third open house for the E-1 Wall Road future neighbourhood

The City of Ottawa is inviting residents to attend the Third Public Open House for the E1 Future Neighbourhood Plan (Wall Road). This plan will help guide how new neighbourhoods in this area will evolve including parks, roads, housing, and community amenities with the goal of building a complete, connected, and sustainable community.

At this session, residents will have an opportunity to view and comment on the area’s opportunities and constraints, the community vision, block plan options, and a draft recommended plan.

City staff and consultants will be on hand to answer questions and hear your feedback directly.

Date: Monday, November 17, 2025

Time: 6 – 8 pm (drop-in style)

Location: Aquaview Community Hall, 318 Aquaview Drive

This open house is an important step in shaping the future of our community, and I encourage all residents to take part and share their perspectives. If you’re unable to attend in person, the display boards and other materials will be available on the project’s webpage following the event.

In-person public consultation for intersection improvements at Mer-Bleue Road and Décoeur Drive

The City of Ottawa invites residents to attend a Public Information Session to review and provide feedback on the proposed intersection modification project at Mer-Bleue Road and Décoeur Drive/Copperhead Street.

This project aims to improve overall safety and traffic operations by introducing a protected signalized intersection featuring designated bicycle crossings, bicycle traffic signals, corner safety islands separating pedestrians and cyclists from vehicles, and other geometric upgrades.

Date: Monday, November 24, 2025

Time: 6 – 8 pm (drop-in style)

Location: Aquaview Community Hall, 318 Aquaview Drive

Preliminary design drawings will be on display for public review, and City staff and consultants will be available to answer questions and gather comments. There will be no formal presentation — residents are encouraged to attend at their convenience.

Waste Connections of Canada starts process to expand the Navan Dump

Waste Connections of Canada (WCC) made me aware this week that it has begun a provincial Environmental Assessment (EA) under Ontario’s Environmental Assessment Act to study a proposed expansion of the Navan Waste Recycling and Disposal Facility, located at 3354 Navan Road.

It’s important to note that this is a provincially led process, not a City of Ottawa initiative. The first step involves developing Terms of Reference, which set out how the assessment will be carried out, including alternatives to be studied and public consultation opportunities. The Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks must approve these Terms of Reference before the full assessment can proceed.

Public input is a key part of the process. Two public open houses will be held during the Terms of Reference phase, and details will be advertised in local media and on the project website.

If the Environmental Assessment is approved by the province and proceeds to implementation, the City would be required to consider a rezoning application to align local planning permissions with any approved expansion.

The Navan Facility has operated since 1960. Through this new Environmental Assessment, WCC is exploring an expansion that would add 3 to 4 million cubic metres of disposal capacity to continue serving industrial, commercial, and institutional waste generators in Ottawa and nearby municipalities.

For any questions, comments, or concerns, please directly email Chris.Visser@wasteconnections.com and Yannick.Marcerou@wsp.com.

Addressing road safety issues at Tenth Line Road and Wall Road

Following two recent collisions at Tenth Line and Wall Road, I met on-site this week with representatives from the City’s Traffic Services, Road Safety, and the Ottawa Police Service to review the situation and discuss possible contributing factors.

While current traffic data indicates that signalization is not yet warranted due to a variety of factors, we are actively exploring both short- and long-term measures to improve visibility, awareness, and overall safety at this intersection.

I have also requested an additional traffic study to ensure we have the most up-to-date information to guide next steps with our partners.

More affordable homes in Orléans South

I’m pleased to share that two new Habitat for Humanity homes are coming to the Avalon community, bringing this long-running project one step closer to completion.

This latest build marks the final phase of Habitat’s Nantes Development, where seven homes were originally built between 2013 and 2014. With these last two homes, Habitat will complete the community and move closer to its goal of building 100 homes over the next five years.

I want to thank City staff for working collaboratively with my office and Habitat to find a creative and practical solutions  that allowed this important project to proceed.

Habitat plays an invaluable role in improving housing affordability across Ottawa, and I’m thrilled to see them building once again in the east end, where their last project was completed in 2021. These two new homes will give two more families the opportunity to put down roots and build a better future right here in our community.

Stop control added at Fern Casey and Crevasse

Residents will notice new all-way stop signs installed at Fern Casey and Crevasse. As the area continues to grow and nearby subdivisions fill in, my office had made a request for updated traffic counts. I was recently made aware of the results of the latest review that confirmed the intersection now meets the City’s strict warrant criteria for an all-way stop. Although installation was originally scheduled for spring 2026, we were able to fast-track the work to have the signs in place this fall.

I know there has also been community interest in adding all-way stop control at the Fern Casey / Axis Way / Couloir Road intersection. After review, staff have advised that this location is not suitable for stop control due to its wide design. In this case, stop signs would likely be less effective and could even create safety risks for both drivers and pedestrians.

At this time, the intersection is functioning as intended; however, I’ve asked staff to continue monitoring conditions as nearby development progresses. In the meantime, we’re pursuing interim safety measures including refreshed signage, improved pavement markings, and potential Temporary Traffic Calming options for next year.

Santa’s Parade of Lights 2025

Santa is ready to light up Orléans with Rudolph and his reindeer on the final Saturday in November! 

The Santa's Parade of Lights is set for Saturday, November 29 starting at 6 pm.

The parade will begin at St. Joseph Boulevard and Youville Drive, and travel along St. Joseph Boulevard to Prestone Drive. See you there!

Visit paradeoflights.org for more information.

Resources are still available for those impacted by ongoing dry wells

As South Nation Conservation continues to report Level 3 low water conditions, I want to remind rural residents in Ward 19 that resources are still available if you’re dealing with a dry well due to this summer’s drought.

If you need access to fresh water or shower facilities, several City recreation centres are still available to help:

 François Dupuis Recreation Centre

 Blackburn/Lois Kemp Arena

 Ray Friel Recreation Complex

 Navan Memorial Centre (when it reopens to the public later this month)

If you plan to visit a recreation centre:

Check operating hours and call ahead to confirm shower or water access.

Upon arrival, visit the front desk and request to speak with the Facilities Operations team for assistance filling water containers.

Even if your well is still functional, conservation is key to protecting groundwater supplies. Please:

 Avoid non-essential water use

 Fix leaks promptly

 Install low-flow fixtures

 Collect rainwater for outdoor use

 Reuse water where possible

Many residents who have never experienced issues before are still seeing reduced flow or dry wells this year, conserving water now can help prevent problems later.

I’ll be meeting with City Infrastructure Services and Emergency Management staff to discuss how we can continue to support residents facing well issues, especially as the cold weather sets in.

Cheer on Orléans’ own Bryce Desrochers at the Canadian Boccia Championships

Congratulations to local athlete Bryce Desrochers, who has once again been selected to represent Team Ontario at the Canadian Boccia Championships, taking place November 19–23 at the RA Centre in Ottawa.

Boccia is a precision ball sport designed for athletes with physical disabilities that affect motor skills. Bryce competes as a BC3 athlete, which means he uses a ramp and a helmet pointer to propel the ball with remarkable accuracy.

In 2024, Bryce made his debut at the national championships and earned his first win against a competitor from New Brunswick, which is a major milestone in his athletic journey.

Bryce is passionate about sharing the sport of boccia and inspiring others to explore adaptive recreation opportunities. Let’s show our support for him and Team Ontario as they compete on the national stage right here at home!

Go Bryce go!

Greater Avalon Community Association (GACA)'s 2025 Holiday Food Drive

Food security remains a growing concern across our city — even here in Orléans South.

The Orléans-Cumberland CRC Food Bank has been working tirelessly to meet increasing community needs. They have extended their hours from three to four days a week and are now assisting more than 1,400 individuals each month.

GACA's goal is to raise $1,000 to provide five families of four with grocery gift cards so they can purchase the items they need most.

GACA will be collecting non-perishable food items from Monday, November 10, to Wednesday, December 10, 2025.

Donations can be dropped off at one of the following locations:

Aquaview Community Centre (318 Aquaview Drive)

Mondays & Wednesdays, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

François Dupuis Recreation Centre (2263 Portobello Blvd)

Monday – Friday, 7:15 a.m. – 9:15 p.m.

Saturdays & Sundays, 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Prescott-Russell Trail & Eco East present Comedy FUNraiser

A hilarious lineup of comics will appear at Rockland's Optimiste Performance Hall, located at 1535 Du Parc Ave. Your favourite mood-lightening beverages from Broken Stick Brewing Company will be available for purchase.

So, grab your partner, friend, parent, big kid, or whoever you like to bust a gut with most and feel good knowing that your $25 ticket donation will go towards supporting two hardworking, local organizations (and help you get your ab workout for the day)!

To purchase tickets, please click here.

Reminder about winter weather parking bans

Between November 15 and April 1, when Environment Canada forecasts significant freezing rain or seven centimeters of snow or more, the Director, Roads and Parking Services may call a Winter Weather Parking Ban. Such a ban does not apply to residential parking permit holders. Vehicles without valid residential parking permits that remain parked on the road during a ban can be ticketed.

To help residents prepare, winter weather parking bans are called by set times:

Daytime bans are called by 3:30 pm on the day before the ban is scheduled to go into effect. Street parking is prohibited between 10 am and 7 pm the following day.

Nighttime bans are called by 9 am on the day that the ban is scheduled to go into effect. Street parking is prohibited between 7 pm and 7 am.

Parking bans are called to support winter operations. When there are no vehicles on the road, operators can more effectively clear the roads and catch basins of ice and snow.

When a winter weather parking ban is called, the City issues a special advisory to the local media and posts it on ottawa.ca and its Facebook and X accounts. 3-1-1 will update its Interactive Voice Recording (IVR) system with information about the restrictions.

Residents may also register for the Winter Parking Ban e-alerts or stay in the know by downloading the City of Ottawa app on their Android or Apple device.

Where to park during a Winter Weather Parking Ban?

During a ban, vehicles can be parked at certain park and ride locations, recreation centres, libraries and municipal parking garages. There are 20 parking lots available for use in the 2025/26 season.

Once a ban is lifted, residents must remove their cars promptly so the parking spaces can once again be used for the regular activities at their locations.

On street parking is available on designated commercial main streets to support local businesses; regular parking restrictions apply. More information on where to park during a Winter Weather Parking Ban is available at ottawa.ca.

Registration opens soon for winter activities

Fall may be in full swing, but it’s never too early to start planning for winter

Mark your calendars with the following registration dates:

• Tuesday, November 18 at 9 pm: online registration for swimming activities.

• Thursday, November 20 at 9 pm: online registration for all other winter activities.

For details, please click here.

The law is changing for carbon monoxide alarms

As of January 2026, changes to the Ontario Fire Code will require increased placement of carbon monoxide alarm detection in residential homes and care facilities with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces or attached garages to keep you and your loved ones safe.

Alarms must be installed on every floor and next to every sleeping area.

To learn more on how to stay compliant: https://bit.ly/43eGAhs

Public information session on the Private Approach By-law

The City is conducting a review and update of the Private Approach By-law, which regulates the construction, use and maintenance of private approaches in the city. A private approach is the part of a driveway or vehicular access to private property that is on the City’s right of way.

A second rural focused session will be held on November 10, 2025. The information sessions will cover how the City reviews and permits private approaches, the functions of the right of way that need to be preserved, and an overview of the proposed by-law updates.

Rural session

Date: Monday, November 10

Time: 6 - 7:30 pm

Online platform: The session will be held virtually on Zoom

Registration: Click here to register

A reminder about peak leaf and yard season clean-up

Let’s rake & roll – peak leaf and yard season is almost here. What does this mean? Starting in mid-October, waste collection operators have until 8 pm to pick up separately set out leaf and yard waste at the curb. The peak season typically lasts for approximately four weeks into late November but can be longer depending on yard waste quantities and the weather. When it’s not peak leaf and yard waste season, curbside waste is picked up by 6 pm.

Did you know setting out your leaf and yard waste separate from your green bin saves money because it can be composted at the Barnsdale leaf and yard composting pad at the Trail Waste Facility Landfill? Setting leaf and yard waste out separately will be required as of March 30, 2026, as part of the 2026 Residential Curbside Collection Contract.

To learn more about our green bin program and leaf and yard waste, visit Ottawa.ca/greenbin