Newsletter - 20 March 2025
From the desk of Councillor David Brown
Ensuring Responsible Development in Rural Ottawa
Ottawa’s rural villages, particularly Richmond and Manotick, have experienced rapid, disproportionate growth, straining infrastructure and essential services. To ensure sustainable development, an infrastructure-first approach is needed, prioritizing roads, schools, and emergency services before approving new housing projects.
Additionally, urban Ottawa is better suited to absorb future growth due to its existing transit and infrastructure. A balanced approach must also include affordable housing options for seniors, allowing long-time residents to remain in their communities.
Ward Updates
Residential Protective Plumbing Program
The City of Ottawa is launching an updated Residential Protective Plumbing Program (RPPP) on April 2, 2025, featuring increased rebate amounts and a simplified application process after device installation.
The RPPP provides financial assistance to eligible property owners for the installation of protective plumbing devices, such as sump pumps and backwater valves, to help prevent flooding caused by rising water levels in the City’s sewer system.
To learn more about eligibility and the application process, visit ottawa.ca.
Development of a new City of Ottawa's Older Adult Plan
The City of Ottawa is in the process of renewing its Older Adult Plan, with an initial focus on understanding the current needs of older adults in the community.
Between June and September 2024, City staff conducted extensive consultations, engaging with 1,300 residents and community agencies who contributed 7,000 ideas, suggestions, and comments. These insights, along with the findings from the Evaluation Report, will shape the Older Adult Plan 2025-2030.
The "What We Learned" Report summarizes key findings and outlines the next steps. You can read the report and stay updated on the plan’s development on Engage Ottawa.
Town Hall Meetings with Ottawa Police Service
Update provided by Leeanne Van der Burgt, President, Manotick Village & Community Association (MVCA)
On February 4, the MVCA hosted two Town Hall meetings at Manotick United Church, featuring representatives from the Ottawa Police Service (OPS). The meetings focused on community policing, home safety, auto theft prevention, and fraud awareness.
OPS announced the addition of a new police division in the southern end of the City, including Manotick, marking a return to community policing in our area. Attendees met seven members of the new team.
Key Topics Covered
✅ Home Safety Audits: Residents can request a free home safety audit, where OPS officers assess their property and provide customized recommendations to deter crime.
✅ Auto Theft Prevention: OPS shared strategies to reduce vehicle theft in the area.
✅ Fraud Awareness & Scam Prevention: With tax season approaching, OPS provided fraud prevention tips and will return for a dedicated two-hour fraud awareness session soon.
📢 Stay tuned! MVCA is coordinating the next Town Hall meeting with OPS. Follow us on social media or check our website for updates.
We also want to hear from you! If you have suggestions for future meeting topics, please contact info@manotickvca.org.
Spring Freshet & Sandbag Preparedness
With the recent snowmelt, a significant amount of water has entered drainage systems, creeks, and rivers, though some waterways remain covered in ice. While water levels are expected to stabilize in smaller streams, continued melting and precipitation may keep levels elevated.
Flood Preparedness Measures
🏗️ Sandbag Depots: A self-serve sandbag depot is now open at 2155 Roger Stevens Drive, with additional depots available at five locations (updated as needed).
🌊 Flood Monitoring: The Spring Freshet Task Force continues to monitor conditions in collaboration with external partners, including tracking water levels in the Rideau River and Ottawa River.
🚧 Road Closures & Repairs: Some roads sustained flood damage over the weekend, and crews are actively working on repairs and reopening efforts.
For real-time updates, visit:
🔗 Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board - Current Conditions
🔗 Flooding Information on ottawa.ca
🔗 The City's Flooding Facebook Page for community updates.
Stay safe and prepared as we navigate this year’s spring freshet season.
Ward 20 Representation Update
Former Ottawa City Councillor George Darouze, who previously represented Ward 20 – Osgoode, has officially been sworn in as the new Member of Provincial Parliament for Carleton.
As a result, Ottawa City Council is expected to declare the Ward 20 seat vacant at its next meeting on March 26, 2025. The City Clerk will oversee the process to fill the vacancy, with an appointment or by-election likely taking place later in the summer.
In the meantime, Council has delegated authority for Ward 20 to Councillor Catherine Kitts and myself to ensure continuity of service and representation.
📢 Ward 20 Updates: I will be including Ward 20-specific updates in my newsletters. Please scroll down for the latest updates.
Pothole Repair Update
Last week, the City began filling potholes, and this week, additional crews and resources have been deployed to speed up repairs across Ottawa.
Python 5000 machine (“Python Pothole Patcher”)
To improve efficiency, the City has secured two Python 5000 Pothole Patchers, which will operate 12-hour shifts, day and night, over the coming weeks as we continue to experience freeze-thaw cycles.
The Python Pothole Patcher can fill a pothole in less than two minutes. With the operator working safely inside the cab, this technology not only speeds up repairs but also enhances worker safety by eliminating exposure to oncoming traffic.
🚧 If you encounter a Python Pothole Patcher while driving, please do not pass, as it may be actively filling a pothole—but remember, the repair takes only a few minutes!
How Are Potholes Formed?
Potholes develop due to Ottawa’s frequent freeze-thaw cycles. Here’s how it happens:
Water from rain or melted snow seeps into small cracks in the road.
As temperatures drop, the water freezes and expands, widening the cracks.
When temperatures rise, the water evaporates, leaving empty spaces beneath the pavement.
The weight of passing vehicles causes the weakened asphalt to break, forming potholes.
With 37 freeze-thaw cycles recorded this winter, conditions have been ideal for pothole formation, making ongoing repairs essential.
How Are Potholes Repaired?
Pothole repair involves:
Clearing debris and water from the hole.
Filling it with asphalt.
Compacting the asphalt to ensure a solid bond with the road surface.
During this time of year, some potholes—especially in high-traffic areas—may require multiple repairs as continued freeze-thaw cycles can cause water to seep back into the cracks.
Report a Pothole
Help keep Ottawa’s roads safe by reporting potholes! You can submit a service request online or call 3-1-1 to report problem areas.
Stay safe on the roads, and thank you for your patience as crews work hard to improve road conditions across the city! 🚧
Out & About
Honoured to celebrate International Women’s Day with two inspiring events! 🌟
Started the day at a breakfast hosted by Councillor Curry, featuring guest speaker Kelly Daize, Executive Director of the Kanata North Business Association. Later, I attended an insightful armchair discussion with Mayor Sutcliffe, where Dr. Vera Etches, the newly appointed President & CEO of CHEO, shared her perspective on leadership and community health.
I was invited to emcee the Rural Ottawa South Support Services' St Patrick's Day Trivia on March 7. The event raised funds to support rural seniors and adults with disabilities, helping them live with dignity and independence.
I had the honour of speaking at the Embassy of Ireland's Flag Raising Ceremony at City Hall, celebrating St. Patrick's Day and Irish Heritage Month. It was a wonderful opportunity to recognize the rich contributions of the Irish community and to embrace the spirit of this special day.
Happy Holi! I had a fantastic time celebrating at Babe MacRae Park with the Richmond community on March 15.
Had a wonderful evening on March 15 sharing Iftar with the Richmond Islamic Community Ottawa. Grateful for the warm hospitality, great conversations, and the chance to come together in the spirit of community and reflection. Thank you for the invitation!
Construction Updates
Road Resurfacing & Construction Impacts
Below is a updated list of roads that will be resurfaced or are being impacted by infrastructure work. There may be nighttime construction noise associated with some of these projects from the hours of 10:00pm to 7:00am.
Further updates will be provided as necessary about these projects and other planned road work.
2025 list coming soon
Noise Exemption at South Carleton High School
📍 Location: 3673 McBean St. (South Carleton High School)
📅 Date: May 16, 2025 (Rain Date: June 6)
⏰ Time: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
🔊 Noise Source: Live music, speakers, and cheering
🎗️ Rationale: South Carleton High School is hosting its first-ever Relay for Life to raise funds for the Canadian Cancer Society.
Renewal of 7 Culverts in Ward 21
A major infrastructure project is underway to replace seven culverts in Ward 21, ensuring the longevity and safety of local roadways. The culverts slated for replacement are located at:
Fallowfield Road – 0.02 km east of Munster Road
Roger Stevens Drive – 0.14 km west of McKenna Road
Second Line Road – 0.10 km north of Roger Stevens Drive
Fourth Line Road – 0.06 km south of Callendor Road
Coldstream Drive – 0.01 km east of Munster Road
Fourth Line Road – 0.15 km north of Dilworth Road
Stratton Drive – 0.01 km west of Third Line Road
The project is currently in the preliminary design stage, with construction expected to begin in 2026. However, due to its advanced state of deterioration, the culvert on Second Line Road South is scheduled for early completion in fall 2025.
Starting in late March or early April, the City will conduct geotechnical investigations at each culvert location. These studies will assess underground soil conditions to support the design of the replacements. The drill rig will be on-site at each location for approximately one day, with temporary lane reductions in effect. Traffic control measures, including flaggers and signage, will be in place to ensure driver and worker safety.
For further details and updates on this project, visit ottawa.ca.
Other Construction
Below are other ongoing construction projects and activities that may have local impacts, including closures and lane reductions:
-Multiple Roads on Long Island - Manotick Watermain Link (Phase 2)
A list of current and future construction project plans are listed on the Ward 21 website here. Any immediate or significant construction notices and/or development plans will be included in future newsletters.
**For more information about planned construction projects and road resurfacing plans across the city, please visit the online interactive map here.**
Community Events
You can check out the Ward 21 website at any time to see an up-to-date list of upcoming events.
In case you missed this week’s event newsletter, click here: Upcoming Community Events in Ward 21!
City Updates and Events
Ward 20 Bi-Weekly Updates
Welcome to this week’s Ward 20 update! As we navigate this transitional period, our team remains committed to assisting you with municipal concerns, connecting you with resources, and keeping you informed about local happenings. Whether you have questions about city services, road maintenance, or community initiatives, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always happy to help!
Upcoming Events
Ward 20 is home to many great events, and you can find details on your local Community Association’s websites and social media pages. Below are a few highlights happening soon:
📌 2025 Rural Youth Expo
📅 Saturday, March 29
⏰ 10 AM – 12 PM
📍 Manotick Community Centre
A fantastic opportunity for youth to meet potential employers, learn about volunteer opportunities, and access valuable resources.
Youth are encouraged to bring their resumes.
Businesses or organizations that offer youth employment can contact YOMA to reserve a free space.
More info: yoma.ca | ✉ youth.of.manotick@gmail.com
🍁 Marionville Sugar Shack Brunch
📅 Sunday, March 23
⏰ 11 AM – 1 PM
📍 Marionville Community Centre
Bring your family for brunch and enjoy delicious local maple products!
More details can be found here.
🎭 The Greely Players Production of Grease
📅 Final performances through March 23
📍 Greely Community Centre
If you haven’t seen it yet, don’t miss out—tickets are still available!
📢 Hosting an event? Let us know, and we’ll be happy to share it!
Ward 20 Updates
Sandbag Depot & Flood Preparedness🏗️
With rapid snowmelt, City staff are actively monitoring flood risks. If you need sandbags, they are available for pick-up at: 📍2155 Roger Stevens Drive
🚨 If you notice a blocked or flooded ditch or a flooded road, please submit a 3-1-1 request to ensure timely assistance.
South Nation Conservation Free Tree Pick-Up 🌳
Once again, South Nation Conservation (SNC) is offering free tree seedlings to area residents!
📌 Reservations are now open, and seedlings are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
📄 Sign up here to reserve yours—SNC will follow up with next steps!
Community Resources & Food Support 🛒
If you or someone you know needs food support, there are local resources available:
The Village Storehouse – Parkway Church
Food Cupboard – Greely Convenience Store
Osgoode Emergency Food Cupboard – St. John the Evangelist Church
If you require assistance or would like to contribute, please reach out to these community partners. No one should go hungry—help is available.
The Great Greely Flower Basket Event 🌸
⏳ Time is running out! Support your community through this annual event, hosted by the Greely Lions.
💰 All profits go back into the community—so place your order before the deadline:
📅 March 31!
Stay Connected
Our team is here to serve you! If you have any concerns, ideas, or need assistance, please reach out:
📧 Ward20@Ottawa.ca
📞 613-580-2490
Looking forward to another great week in Ward 20! 🚀
Stay in touch!
I want to hear from you! Stay connected and keep informed by:
📱 Following us on social media – Click the icons below to stay updated.
🌐 Visiting our website: www.ward21.ca
📧 Emailing your concerns: ward21@ottawa.ca
📞 Calling our office: 613-580-2491
📅 Want to meet with Councillor Brown at his North Gower office? Email ward21@ottawa.ca to book an appointment.
Looking forward to connecting with you!