Newsletter Nov 30
From the desk of Councillor David Brown
Delivering for Rural Ottawa at ARAC
Earlier today, we had a very long meeting at the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee (ARAC) where many important items were on the table. I have been working hard with my colleagues to advance the priorities of our communities through the committee and am happy to report on some positive developments.
Read more
Watch the full proceedings here
Alongside a few Council colleagues, I had a great time at the Kanata Santa Claus Parade last weekend! There are upcoming parades in Richmond and Manotick too; scroll down to learn more, and I hope to see you there!
Ward Updates
Next week at Council: Vote on the 2024 Budget
As mentioned last week, my colleagues and I on Council are working on reviewing and proposing changes to the 2024 Budget. You can read more on some of my thoughts on the budget and some improvements that I think can be made. Residents interested in watching the budget proceedings should tune in here at 10am on Wednesday, December 6.
Rural Councillors' Budget Consultation
Last week, I participated in a budget consultation alongside some of my rural Council colleagues. For residents who want to watch the presentation from City staff and the engagement from their fellow residents, you can watch the 2024 Rural Councillors’ Budget Consultation on Vimeo.
Important Survey for Farm Property Owners
Many farmers or residents who live on agricultural properties may soon receive a survey from the City regarding changes to curbside collection. During the curbside collection debate earlier this year, I worked alongside my Council colleagues to ensure that staff would engage with farmers to develop an exemption policy for farm properties that receive residential waste collection services from the City. If you are a farmer, please take the time to fill out the survey here.
MCRA / Pierce's Corners Hall Generator Switch
The Marlborough Community Recreation Association (MCRA) / Pierce’s Corners Committee members met with City of Ottawa staff who facilitated a test-run of the Hall’s new generator link switch. The switch will enable the Hall to be powered by a generator during major power outages, allowing the MCRA to support community members during extended outages. I am pleased to have helped the MCRA move this important project along, and I am excited to continue supporting the roll out of this vital emergency support elsewhere in our communities.
Construction Updates
Road Closures
Fourth Line from Pollock to Century Road West is closed due to excavation and box culvert replacement activities. Work on Fourth Line is ongoing but delays were encountered due to unforeseen circumstances outside the City’s control, including significant vandalism of equipment on site - a problem that has persisted and has resulted in work stoppages. Our office has communicated the community's dissatisfaction with the delays and the lack of consistent work on the site. The contractor has communicated that works will be completed by mid-December, at which time the road will be re-opened.
Barnsdale Road from Twin Elm Road to Eagleson Drive has had its closure extended until December 15 for work done by Hydro Ottawa to stand up hydro poles. Our office has communicated the community's dissatisfaction with the delays. This same section of Barnsdale will be closed between mid-January and February of 2024 for the second phase of Hydro Ottawa's work, including stringing conductors on the new poles.
Upcoming Community Events
Kiwanis Parade of Lights
The Kiwanis parade of lights in Manotick is tomorrow! Festivities kick off on December 1st with Hot Chocolate courtesy of Wilson Law Partners at 6pm and the parade starts at 7pm. Learn more
Richmond Village Santa Claus Parade
The Richmond Village Association is excited to welcome you to the 2023 Richmond Village Santa Claus Parade on December 2nd at 5:30pm! This year, the RVA is bringing back the processional style parade format. Learn more or register to participate in the parade here.
Christmas in the Village of Manotick
Village-wide celebrations in Manotick are ringing in the Christmas season! From home decorating contests to a wide range of activities on December 2nd, make sure you don't miss a moment of Christmas in the Village. Learn more
Pierce’s Corners annual Breakfast with Santa
The time is near for Christmas cheer at Pierce’s Corners annual Breakfast with Santa! Join your community on December 9th for a delicious breakfast, holiday crafts and Santa letter writing. Have your phones ready to take a pic with Santa! Drop-in between 9AM-1PM at 3048 Pierce Road. Costs are $5 per person or $20 per family, paid at the door. Donations to the North Gower food bank are welcome. Learn more
Community Christmas Markets
RCL Manotick: Christmas Bazaar
Make sure to head down to the Manitock Legion on Saturday December 2 between 10am to 4pm in Harmony Hall for a Christmas Bazaar! For more information, call the legion at 613 692-3243 or email at rclbranch314@gmail.com.
Kars 3rd Annual Christmas Markets
Looking for that perfect gift for someone special? Mark your calendar! The Kars Annual Christmas Markets are coming back at the Kars RA between 10am to 3pm on the following days:
December 3
December 10
For more information, including to register as a vendor, please email karscra@gmail.com or call 613-489-2524 and leave a message.
North Gower Christmas Market
North Gower's popular Christmas Market is returning with over 40 vendors! Head on down to the Alfred Taylor Recreation Centre on December 3 between 8:30am-2:00pm to pick up goodies and gifts including crafts, jewelry, art, candles, wine, artisanal produce, chocolates, treats, baked goods and much more. For more information, email:
northgowerfarmersmarket@gmail.com
Other Ongoing and Recurring Events
News from the Ottawa Public Library
The four library branches in our ward have much to offer! The Manotick, Munster, North Gower and Richmond Branch libraries have various adult programs in crafts, book clubs and children’s programs in storytimes, crafts and other activities. Most are drop-in but some need registration. Also, the libraries have COVID test kits and face masks available free for clients.
Manotick and North Gower offer well water sample bottles for testing. Take your sample and drop it off on Tuesdays at these branches.
ROSSS Drop-In
Rural Ottawa South Support Services' (ROSSS) hosts a number of ongoing events, including Drop-In programs. Learn More
Annual Blanket Drive
From October to December, the Kiwanis Club's annual blanket drive will be accepting donations at the Manotick Legion. Your generous donation of a slightly used or new blanket or sleeping bag will help to keep a person warm this winter. Learn more
Richmond and Manotick Legions: Ongoing events
The Richmond and Manoitck Legions have regular events going on all year round! Learn more about the events in Richmond here and the events in Manotick here.
