City News

February 3, 2012

City reopens approved sledding hills 

Ottawa - The City of Ottawa has reopened its 55 approved sledding hills. The hills had been closed due to icy conditions and a lack of snow. The hills now have enough snow to allow for safe sledding. Outdoor enthusiasts are invited to sled while weather and hill conditions permit, and to keep personal safety in mind while sledding.

Approved sledding hill locations and safety tips are available on the City’s website at ottawa.ca.

 

February 3, 2012

Connect with your community at Volunteer Marketplace 

Ottawa – Volunteers are an essential part of many programs and organizations throughout Ottawa. At the 2012 Volunteer Marketplace, discover why donating your time is a great way to build a stronger and more caring community while gaining hands-on experience.

From coaching sports and organizing events to helping people with disabilities−volunteers make a difference and contribute significantly to the quality of life of Ottawa residents.

The Volunteer Marketplace features almost thirty organizations looking for help and is held at the St. Laurent Shopping Centre on Thursday, February 9 from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Find out about organizations within your community and explore the various opportunities available for volunteers. Whether you are interested in working with children, youth, adults or seniors, the Volunteer Marketplace is a great place to find an organization that needs you.

Admission is free and everyone is welcome. For more information, please contact the City of Ottawa’s Volunteer Services division at 613-580-2624 or volunteer@ottawa.ca.

 

February 1, 2012

ServiceOttawa – get online, not in line 

Ottawa – Accessing City information and services is now easier for Ottawa residents and businesses as the first phase of ServiceOttawa went live on ottawa.ca today.

“ServiceOttawa is making it easier for residents and business owners to access City services and information online instead of in person or over the phone,” said Mayor Jim Watson. “By investing in these technologies, we are able to deliver the services residents need while saving taxpayer dollars. ServiceOttawa allows our citizens to get online, not in line.”

Transactions such as searching, booking and paying for last-minute ice time, reporting graffiti, requesting recycling bins and obtaining PIN and barcodes for recreation program registration are now available through the ServiceOttawa gateway on ottawa.ca.

“This ServiceOttawa launch is the first in a series of technology improvements that will benefit our residents,” said Councillor Tim Tierney, Chair of the City’s Information Technology Sub-Committee. “As more services are added online and our new client-service software is fully implemented, residents will experience more consistent service in all of their interactions with the City.”

The enhanced website also offers virtual tours of rental spaces in City facilities, allows residents to check the status of their service request, and makes ottawa.ca easier to use from a mobile device with streamlined navigation.

ServiceOttawa is entering the second year of its mandate to implement new technologies and procedures to ensure residents receive high-quality, timely services that save the City money.

 

January 30, 2012

Ottawa Public Health releases Let’s Clear the Air – a Renewed Strategy for a Smoke-Free Ottawa

Ottawa – Today, Ottawa Public Health (OPH) released recommendations for a renewed smoke-free strategy designed to protect children and non-smokers from second-hand smoke while reducing smoking rates.

This joint initiative between OPH and By-law and Regulatory Services, in consultation with other city departments, includes increased programming for people who want to quit; new smoke-free regulations to protect residents from second-hand smoke and a public awareness and community engagement strategy designed to make Ottawa a healthier city for all.

“Tobacco use continues to be the leading cause of preventable death and disease,” said Dr. Isra Levy, Ottawa’s Medical Officer of Health. “In Ottawa, almost 1,000 smokers and non-smokers die each year due to tobacco related illness. What’s more is that almost 19 per cent of residents are exposed to second-hand smoke in areas where they work and play. The renewed strategy will result in healthier people, a cleaner city and smoke-free kids.”

The renewed strategy for a smoke-free Ottawa recommends:

1. Increasing cessation services and programs for all residents, including priority populations with high smoking rates;
2. Expanding Ottawa’s smoke-free regulations to make all municipal properties, including parks and beaches, and bar and restaurant patios smoke-free; and
3. Implementing public education campaigns and a community engagement strategy to decrease the number of youth who start smoking, to increase awareness of the dangers of tobacco smoke and to create more smoke-free spaces.

These initiatives do not require additional funding for enforcement or to deliver enhanced services.

Ottawa residents strongly support creating more smoke-free spaces, according to OPH’s consultations and public opinion research. If the recommendations in this report are adopted by City Council, Ottawa will join a growing number of municipalities that have made such places smoke-free.

“There is no safe level of second-hand smoke, even outdoors. Vulnerable populations such as children, seniors, pregnant women and people with heart and respiratory problems are particularly at risk of adverse health effects caused by second-hand smoke,” said Dr. Levy.

At present, almost 15 per cent of residents smoke – approximately 105,000 people. The smoking rate has levelled off since 2005 after steep declines in earlier years.
Expanding smoke-free spaces in Ottawa has received strong public support from residents over a number of years. A 2011 Ipsos Reid survey showed that 77 per cent of respondents support smoke-free parks and playgrounds; 77 per cent support smoke-free municipal properties and 73 per cent support smoke-free patios. Designated smoking areas and patio curfews are not recommended due to enforcement complexities, the health hazard of second-hand smoke and the risk of negative role modelling to children, especially in areas where they play.

OPH developed multiple opportunities for residents, business owners and community groups to provide input on expanding Ottawa’s smoke-free regulations. Over 3,000 letters were sent to business and community organizations and five public consultations were held. More than 2,000 responses were received from the general public, business owners and community partners – 1,600 of these responses came from the online consultation.

OPH will present its report to the Board of Health on February 6, 2012 at 5 p.m. in the Champlain Room at City Hall. Recommendations will be forwarded to the Community and Protective Services Committee on February 15, 2012 and City Council on February 22, 2012 for final approval. Board of Health reports can be found on ottawa.ca/health.

For more information about smoking cessation programs and tools, visit ottawa.ca/quitsmoking or call 613-580-6744 (TTY: 613-580-9656). You can also connect with OPH on Facebook and Twitter (@ottawahealth) for the latest public health information.

 

January 27, 2012

City’s March Break Camps: Kid-size adventures start here! 

Ottawa - School’s out for a week of fun, and across the city there are over 100 action-packed March Break camps in sports, arts, water fun and more!

Take to the ice with hockey, skating and curling camps. Try horseback riding, indoor soccer or rock climbing. Wow family and friends with talents developed in computer, magic or movie camps. Star on stage in acting, singing and dance camps. Get messy with clay, paints and glue. Work on your leadership skills and make new friends.
Ottawa’s largest selection of camps comes with enthusiastic and trained leaders. Our programs offer top value and quality you can trust.

Find your neighbourhood adventure and register online at ottawa.ca/marchbreak
Register Now for March Break Camps.

To use the City’s online registration system, you need a family PIN and individual barcodes for each family member. To get a PIN visit a local recreation facility, Client Service Centre, or call the touch-tone registration system at 613-580-2588 (Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.).

If you have previously provided Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services with your email address, we can email your account details to you. Our new PIN & Barcode lookup tool will help you retrieve the information.

 

January 26, 2012

City Seeks Young Artists - Young at Art 2012 Applications Now Available

Ottawa - The City of Ottawa invites young artists to enter Young at Art 2012 - the citywide artist juried exhibition for youth. Applications are now available for young Ottawa artists between 12 and 19 years of age.

Young at Art provides creative and talented youth an opportunity to showcase and celebrate their artistry in a citywide event. Works selected for Young at Art 2012 will be displayed in Ottawa community galleries and recognized for outstanding work at awards presentations in the east, west and central areas of the city.

Application forms and guidelines are available online at ottawa.ca/youngatart. Forms are also available at community centres, Ottawa Public Library branches and by contacting Mike Taylor, Young at Art Coordinator at 613-580-2424, ext. 29288 or miketaylor@ottawa.ca.

The deadline for Young at Art 2012 submissions is Friday, March 4, 2012 at 4 p.m.

 

January 25, 2012

Rink of Dreams officially opens at City Hall 

Ottawa – The city’s newest attraction, the Rink of Dreams, is now open, as the first skaters made their way onto the ice during the official opening today.

Mayor Jim Watson; Cyril Leeder, President of Senators Sports and Entertainment; Danielle Robinson, President of the Ottawa Sens Foundation; and Claude Allain, Vice-Chair at Large for the Hockey Canada Foundation, were on hand to welcome the skaters to the rink, along with Senators players Erik Karlsson and Milan Michalek, Senators General Manager Bryan Murray and Senators head coach Paul MacLean.

“The Rink of Dreams is an exciting addition to our downtown core,” said Mayor Jim Watson. “The Rink will attract residents and tourists alike while playing host to dozens of events that bring our community together. I would like to thank the Ottawa Senators, the Sens Foundation, Hockey Canada and all the private sector partners who helped make this happen.”

The 12,500 square foot oval ice surface is a refrigerated outdoor skating facility and will be one of the largest outdoor rinks in the City of Ottawa. It will operate annually from November to March and will serve as a community space during the spring and summer months. The City will work closely with the National Capital Commission (NCC) and other organizers to complement the many festivals and events in the downtown core.

“The Rink of Dreams is one of the most significant recreational and community-related projects we have ever been involved in,” said Leeder. “It’s very much a credit to city officials, the Hockey Canada Foundation, the Sens Foundation and our own staff that this facility will be available for residents and visitors to Ottawa for the winters ahead. I’m certain that I speak for the many who were involved in this project and are all thrilled to see it open ahead of Ottawa’s hosting of the 2012 NHL All-Star Weekend.”

“We could not be more excited that the Rink of Dreams is set to open,” said Bob Nicholson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hockey Canada. “It will be a place where residents and visitors alike can come and enjoy Canada’s game, and we are so proud that Hockey Canada and the Hockey Canada Foundation have played such a large role in this dream becoming a reality.”

The City will operate the rink and is contributing $250,000 towards constructions costs. The Sens Foundation, along with local partners and construction companies, has contributed the remainder of the design and construction budget for the Rink of Dreams project.

The Rink of Dreams change hut will be open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
For more information on the Rink of Dreams, visit ottawa.ca.

For more information on the Sens Foundation, visit www.sensfoundation.com. For more information about the Hockey Canada Foundation, visit www.hockeycanada.ca/foundation

 

January 25, 2012

All-Star weekend events may cause traffic disruptions 

Ottawa - The City of Ottawa wants to remind motorists to expect occasional traffic disruptions around events connected to the National Hockey League All-Star weekend.
The biggest disruption will be on Colonel By Drive, where the northbound lane, between Daly Avenue and Hawthorne Avenue at the Pretoria Bridge, will be closed Thursday, January 26 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This is to make it safer for buses delivering school children to and from the Ottawa Convention Centre for the Scotiabank NHL Fan Fair.

There may be increased traffic congestion on roads surrounding the convention centre, on Daly Avenue, Colonel By Drive and Nicholas Street between Wednesday, January 25 and Sunday, January 29. The Ottawa Police Service will monitor traffic at these locations throughout the week and weekend.

Events at Scotiabank Place on Saturday night and Sunday night are expected to create normal hockey game day traffic.

Drivers are asked to take alternate routes when possible and to have patience with drivers who are visiting the capital this week and may not be familiar with Ottawa roads. For more information on the NHL All-Star Weekend go to the Ottawa Senators website or go to ottawa.ca.

 

January 25, 2012

City’s approved sledding hills closed 

Ottawa – The City of Ottawa has temporarily closed its 55 approved sledding hills due to the changing weather, which has resulted in unsafe conditions for sledding. The City of Ottawa urges the public to keep personal safety in mind and remain off the sledding hills until further notice. The hills will reopen once we receive a significant snowfall and only after hill conditions are deemed safe.

Notification of the re-opening of the hills will be available on the City’s website at ottawa.ca.

 

January 25, 2012

$42.9-million plan to build affordable housing in Ottawa 

Ottawa – The City of Ottawa will build new affordable rental housing and help others to repair existing homes, under a $42.9-million program endorsed today at City Council.

The Investment in Affordable Housing for Ontario (IAH) program will see $25.9 million in provincial and federal government money and $17 million in existing capital budget City of Ottawa funds invested over the next four years. These are one-time capital projects which will not require ongoing financial support.

“These are the projects that will put a roof over someone’s head. These are the projects that deliver on City Council’s commitment to do something about homelessness and building affordable housing,” said Mayor Jim Watson.

“We are pleased that practical projects are being done that will change lives,” said Councillor Peter Hume, Chair of Planning Committee. “We have a huge need for affordable housing but we are making progress; one building at a time.”

Under the plan most of the money is to be used to construct or acquire new affordable, accessible rental housing. This will start with an 11-unit wheelchair-accessible building constructed at a cost of $1.5 million. In 2012, another $15 million will be allocated to new properties including a project at 800 Montreal Road, where the federal government has provided land worth $1.7 million to the City for $1.00, on which 60 to 90 apartments would be built.

These projects will be selected from RFP processes held in 2012, 2013 and 2014, and financed with the government funds but owned and managed by organizations that have expertise in managing and building affordable housing.

The housing program also includes support for low-income residents who are qualified to buy a home but need loan assistance for the down payment to purchase their first home.

Additionally, the City will assist with essential home repairs to assist low-income residents, typically seniors, so they have safe living conditions.

The Investment in Affordable Housing program is not the only affordable housing initiative being done by the City. Council has approved a $14 million annual expenditure for homelessness and housing initiatives.

This Council investment supports housing allowances which are paid to households and are portable. These allowances help more than 550 households with a subsidy of $250 per month, plus $50 per household member. Council’s $14-million annual investment also supports rent supplements (subsidy based on a household paying 30 per cent of their income toward rent) which will help an additional 500 low-income households. The total investment for these two programs is $5 million every year.

 

January 25, 2012

2012 property tax due dates set 

Ottawa – City Council today approved interim property taxes and due dates for 2012.

The interim property tax billing is due on March 15, 2012 and is 50 per cent of the total amount of adjusted/annualized taxes for municipal and school purposes levied on the property for 2011. The final 2012 tax instalment is due on June 21, 2012.

The interim and final due dates do not apply to taxpayers who participate in the City’s monthly Pre-Authorized Payment Plan.

The penalty and interest percentage charge on overdue and unpaid tax arrears remain at 1.25 per cent per month (15 per cent per year), unchanged from 2011.

 

January 24, 2012

Ottawa Fire Services welcomes donations to the Vehicle Donation Program 

Ottawa – Ottawa Fire Services (OFS) is encouraging residents to donate their old or scrap vehicles to the Vehicle Donation Program. Your donation can help firefighters continuously practice their skills and rescue techniques, and you will receive a $500 tax receipt in return. Even if your vehicle does not run, it can still be used, and OFS will arrange to have it picked up for free.

Your donated vehicle will be used as a training apparatus that will help firefighters practice the intricate skill of automobile extrication. Every year, OFS responds to thousands of traffic collisions that involve extricating injured drivers and passengers from mangled vehicles using specialized techniques and tools. Over the years, automotive innovations and features such as airbags, computer-controlled security and alternate fuel/hybrid systems, have made automobile extrication even more complex.

As part of the OFS training program, firefighters hone their skills on vehicles that are obtained or donated from recyclers, which often includes high towing fees. To offset these costs, old or scrap vehicles can be donated directly to Ottawa Fire Services in exchange for a $500 tax receipt that will be mailed to the donor.

If you wish to donate a vehicle, please first call 613-580-2424, ext. 29492 to receive instructions about how to donate your vehicle.

After calling, if the vehicle can be safely operated, it can be driven directly to one of the five designated fire stations:

Station 12 - 635 O'Connor Street
Station 36 - 900 Industrial Avenue
Station 37 - 910 Earl Armstrong Road
Station 44 - 1075 Greenbank Road
Station 53 - 500 Charlemagne Boulevard

If the vehicle cannot be safely operated, Ottawa Fire Services will make arrangements to have a towing company pick up your vehicle free-of-charge. However, you must be present to sign over your vehicle ownership and show photo identification (such as driver’s licence, passport or government-issued identification).

If you live in a rural area, you will be directed to one of four Ottawa Fire Services Rural Administrative offices for further instructions.

 

January 23, 2012

Help shape the City of Ottawa Archives strategic plan

Ottawa – The City of Ottawa Archives invites residents to complete a brief online questionnaire in order to help inform its strategic plan for the next five years.
The Archives recently moved into the new James Bartleman Archives and Library Materials Centre on Tallwood Drive. The questionnaire requests your feedback on this new facility, as well as the programs and services offered by the Archives. Your input will help make the Archives a community meeting place and ensure that its services meet your needs.

Please visit ottawa.ca/archives before February 24, 2012 to complete the questionnaire.

 

January 19, 2012

REVISION: False house calls prompt warning from City

NOTE: Date corrected above.

Ottawa – The City of Ottawa has today received reports of unknown salespeople approaching the homes of residents and identifying themselves as City employees. They claim the city requires access to the home to perform water quality tests. The City does not currently have staff or anyone representing the City going door-to-door making such calls or checking for material build-up on water meters.

Any visits by City staff that may require access to homes or businesses are scheduled in advance unless an emergency situation exists. Residents are also provided with advance notice of projects that might impact them.

Residents are reminded that all employees requesting access must show City-issued photo identification. Residents who are directly contacted by persons claiming to be City employees for City business are asked to check identification, and, if concerns remain, contact 3-1-1 before allowing access. Residents are also asked to report any suspicious phone calls or visits to police.

 

January 19, 2012

Smoke-free housing is healthy for tenants and for business

Ottawa – Exposure to second-hand smoke is a health hazard, and living with it in your residence every day can be a debilitating experience. Thankfully, there are more options for Ottawa residents looking for smoke-free living.

As a part of National Non-Smoking Week, Ottawa Public Health (OPH) recognized Domicile Developments for having designated its One3One Condominium project as being entirely smoke-free, making it the first new development in the city to have this designation.

Councillor Diane Holmes, Chair of the Ottawa Board of Health joined Kitchissippi Councillor Katherine Hobbs and Dr. Isra Levy, Medical Officer of Health in presenting a Smoke-Free Champion award to Mr. John Doran, President of Domicile Developments.
“As Chair of the Ottawa Board of Health, I’m proud to be here today to recognize a smoke-free champion,” said Councillor Holmes. “Our hope is that more developers and landlords will follow Domicile Development’s lead and make their new developments smoke-free.”

“We’re very happy to be considered a leader in the creation of smoke-free multi-unit condo dwellings,” said John Doran, President of Domicile Developments. “Committing One3One and our Hom projects to be smoke-free buildings was the right thing to do, demonstrated by our sales success at both projects. Buyers have whole-heartedly embraced this vision.”

“I’m proud to recognize a developer for committing to a smoke-free environment,” said Councillor Hobbs. “Having both Domicile’s One3One and Hom projects in my ward is something to celebrate.”

“No-smoking policies in multi-unit dwellings are a win-win: cleaner, healthier indoor air for all residents and a healthier bottom line for owners and managers in terms of less cleaning and maintenance," said Dr. Levy. “Everyone deserves to be protected; we are pleased to recognize local champions in smoke-free multi-unit dwellings.”

Polling by Ipsos Reid in November 2011 on behalf of the Canadian Cancer Society showed that 67 per cent of Ontarians believe that all apartments, condos and co-ops in the province should be 100 per cent smoke free. Among young adults aged 18 to 34, this number rises to 83 per cent.

OPH encourages other landlords and property owners to follow suit. Many landlords are unaware that they possess the legal right to implement a no smoking policy in their building, or that the majority of Ontarians prefer a smoke-free building. In addition to the health benefits, 100 per cent smoke-free multi-unit dwellings are practical in that they decrease fire hazards and reduce unit cleaning, painting and other smoking related damage and maintenance costs.

Tenants and residents interested in advocating for smoke-free housing, as well as landlords and housing providers interested in making their buildings smoke-free, are encouraged to visit smokefreehousingon.ca for valuable information, resources and tools.

About the Ipsos Reid poll

An Ipsos Reid poll, conducted on behalf of the Canadian Cancer Society Ontario Division, was undertaken from November 16 to 21, 2011. For this survey, a total of 810 Ontarians were interviewed online, yielding a margin of error of +/- 3.5 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.


January 17, 2012

LRT trade show will connect local businesses with major consortia

Ottawa - The City of Ottawa, in partnership with the Ottawa Chamber of Commerce and Ottawa Business Journal, is hosting the Ottawa Light Rail Transit (OLRT) Trade Show at the CE Centre on Uplands Drive on February 9.

The trade show will promote local business participation and employment within the City’s $2.1-billion OLRT project. This project, that is receiving significant funding from our federal and provincial partners, will generate considerable economic activity in a variety of sectors, including construction, professional services, technology and others.
The City wants to ensure that the project’s three shortlisted consortia, comprised of world-class firms with extensive expertise in transit infrastructure projects, have an opportunity to be exposed to the high quality goods, services and expertise that Ottawa-area contractors and suppliers can offer.

Ottawa businesses, labour associations, and educational institutions, among other organizations are invited to participate in the trade show and to interact and engage with the project’s consortia. Mayor Jim Watson, senior City staff and business leaders will also attend. Businesses are encouraged to register a booth at the trade show and display the many assets that Ottawa companies can offer these world-class consortia.

Date: Thursday, February 9, 2012
Time: 07:30 to 16:30
Location: CE Centre, 4899 Uplands Drive, Ottawa, Ontario K1V 2N6

For further information, please visit http://www.ottawalightrail.ca/en/

To register for the OLRT Trade Show, please visit:

www.ottawachamber.ca/events/eventdetail.aspx?EventID=192

Or contact:

Event Assistant Trade Show Booth Sales
Patti Moran Dale Harley
613-744-4800 x248 613-882-5684
E-mail: tradeshow@obj.ca E-mail: dale@harleyhouse.com

 

January 17, 2012

Smoke-free champions clear the air on local patios

Ottawa – As a part of National Non-Smoking Week, Rideau-Vanier Councillor and Board of Health member Mathieu Fleury and Dr. Isra Levy, Medical Officer of Health, presented a Smoke-Free Champion award to Phil Waserman, Past-President, Ontario Restaurant, Hotel and Motel Association (Ottawa Chapter) and owner of The Courtyard, Mamma Grazzi’s Kitchen and Biagio’s Italian Kitchen restaurants. All of the restaurants offer smoke-free patios.

“Mr. Waserman has been promoting healthy outdoor dining at his own restaurants and has also been advocating for voluntary smoke-free patios with his peers,” said Councillor Fleury. “This is a positive trend that we must commend and encourage for the health of all residents.”

“Phil has been a leader in the creation of smoke-free spaces and we are very happy to recognize his leadership,” said Dr. Levy. “This is a great example of how members of the private sector are embracing the move towards a smoke-free environment.”
Being exposed to second-hand smoke on a patio outdoors can result in similar levels of exposure to smoke as spending the same amount of time in a smoky tavern. The dangers of second hand smoke, even outdoors, cannot be ignored.

“More people ask for and want a smoke-free dining experience when they are outside enjoying our patio,” said Mr. Waserman. “We see the benefits of providing a smoke-free outdoor dining experience for our patrons as well as for our staff.”

The following establishments have made their patios smoke-free:

Biagio’s Italian Kitchen, 1394 Richmond Road
Courtyard Restaurant, 21 George Street
East India Company Restaurant, 210 Somerset West
L’Ange/Marvelous Mustard Shop, 109 Sparks Street
Bridgehead Coffee House, 1277 Wellington Street West
Metropolitan Brasserie, 700 Sussex Drive
Stone Face Dolly’s, 416 Preston Street
Milagro Grill, 357 Richmond Road
Luxe Bristo, 47 York Street
Stella Osteria, 81 Clarence Street
Bridgehead Coffee House, 131 Beechwood Avenue
Petit Bill’s Bistro, 1293 Wellington Street
Vie Bella, 87 Sparks Street
Cora’s Breakfast, 1355 Richmond Road
Second Cup, 123 Bank Street
Green Rebel, 340 Albert Street
Zen Kitchen, 634 Somerset Street
Marcello’s Market & Deli, 280 Slater Street
The Keg Manor, 529 Richmond Road
Firkin & Knight, 1460 Merivale Road
Starbucks, 421 Richmond Road
Bridgehead Coffee, 440 Richmond Road
Firkin & Flyer, 3987 Riverside Drive

According to an Ipsos Reid poll conducted on behalf of Ottawa Public Health (OPH), there is high support for smoke-free outdoor patios. It found that 73 per cent of Ottawa residents want smoke-free outdoor patios.

There has been much progress regarding smoke-free outdoor dining experience and OPH wants to make smoke-free dining a gold standard. If you would like to promote your voluntary smoke-free patio, please contact the OPH Information Line at 613-580-6744 (TTY: 613-580-9656) or by e-mail at healthsante@ottawa.ca. OPH will add your restaurant or bar to the growing list.

About the Ipsos Reid poll

An Ipsos Reid poll, conducted on behalf of Ottawa Public Health, was undertaken from August 9 to 18, 2011. For this survey, a total of 400 Ottawa residents were interviewed by phone, yielding a margin of error of 4.9 per cent at a 95 per cent confidence level.

 

January 17, 2012

2012 civic events funding applications are now available

Ottawa – Local not-for-profit organizations, such as volunteer-based community or recreation associations, are invited to apply for funding to provide a one-to-two-day civic event and/or civic celebration. The event should foster civic pride, develop community cohesion and offer free admission. The City’s Civic Events Fund supports events linked to and celebrating a civic or statutory holiday in Ontario, held in Ottawa and encompassing a broad range of activities, including family entertainment.

Maximum Allocation: $3,000
Application Deadline: March 5, 2012
Program guidelines and application forms are available at ottawa.ca or by visiting City of Ottawa Client Service Centres. For more information contact 613-580-2424, ext. 20029 or e-mail: rec-info@ottawa.ca.

 

January 16, 2012

Let’s tell the world what makes Ottawa such a Great Place!

Ottawa - Do you have a favourite public space, neighbourhood or street in Ottawa you would like others to know about? The Canadian Institute of Planners’ (CIP) Annual Great Places in Canada competition is looking for online votes and nominations. With so many great places in Ottawa, it will be hard to narrow down your choice.

Maybe it’s a spot by the Rideau Canal, the colourful Chinatown Gateway on Somerset Street, swimming at Westboro beach or watching the sailboats at Britannia Park? It could be the hustle and bustle of the ByWard Market, savouring the goods at the Lansdowne Farmers’ Market or enjoying the serenity of the Manotick Mill. Or maybe it is just down the street in your very own neighbourhood.

With just a few simple steps you can help put our great city on the map and your “Great Place” can be in the running:

Go to GreatPlacesInCanada.com.

Nominate your own favourite location by submitting an entry with a photo or video

You can also vote for your favourite locations including ones in Ottawa

Nominations will be accepted until January 31, 2012

Voting will take place until February 29, 2012

General information:

The competition is open to everyone and there are great prizes to be won.

Semi-finalists will be named in early April and winners will be announced at the end of April 2012.

Great Places in Canada on Facebook and @GreatPlacesCA on Twitter will provide regular updates on the contest.

The competition is sponsored by CIP to recognize the work of professional planners across Canada and to celebrate the great places we are fortunate to share in this vast country.

For more information, please visit GreatPlacesInCanada.com.

 

January 9, 2012

Interim Report on Infection Control Lapse issued by Ottawa Public Health 

Ottawa - An interim report regarding the continuing response to an infection control lapse at a local out-of-hospital clinic was released by Ottawa Public Health (OPH) today.

The report provides an overview of OPH’s notification and response in support of patients following the inspection by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) in May 2011.

The CPSO inspection found infection control and cleaning practices were not always followed at an out-of-hospital gastrointestinal clinic in Ottawa operated by Dr. Christiane Farazli. The clinic performed endoscopic procedures including colonoscopies and gastroscopies.

Highlights of the report:

OPH directly reached 90 per cent of potentially affected patients to alert them of the lapse and provide information and support.

To date, there are no identified links between cases of hepatitis B, hepatitis C or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the lapse.

As expected, cases of hepatitis B and C have been discovered. However, the number of cases is consistent with prevalence of the diseases in the general population. No cases of HIV have been discovered.

Of the 4,353 tests, 8.5 per cent (or 369 patients) showed blood test evidence of hepatitis B infection at some point in their lifetime, .9 per cent (or 39 patients) showed evidence of hepatitis C infection.

No patients tested positive for HIV.

The lapse affected approximately 7,000 patients and potentially exposed patients who had undergone endoscopic procedures to the risk of infection with hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV.

“This interim report highlights the outstanding work of the staff at Ottawa Public Health and throughout the City in supporting, providing advice and assisting affected patients over the past few months,” said Councillor Diane Holmes, Chair of the Ottawa Board of Health. “It also recommends changes at the Provincial level that would mitigate or avoid future challenges of the type faced here.”

The investigation is continuing with genetic fingerprinting of relevant samples with the assistance of Public Health Ontario and the Public Health Agency of Canada. This investigation includes additional testing for certain patients who volunteer and will assist in further examining whether there was any link between infections and the lapse. This process is expected to take a significant amount of time.

“Our focus remains on supporting patients and determining whether any transmission of disease occurred at the clinic,” said Dr. Isra Levy, Ottawa’s Medical Officer of Health. “Our response is ongoing and has yet to be completed.”

OPH has applied for 100 per cent reimbursement by the provincial government to cover the costs associated with this extraordinary event. The province has indicated that it will cover those costs.

Patients can contact OPH by calling the dedicated information line 613-580-2888 (TTY: 613-580-9656). For additional information please visit ottawa.ca/health or e-mail healthsante@ottawa.ca.

The report will be available at ottawa.ca as part of the next agenda for the Ottawa Board of Health. The report will be discussed at the January 16 meeting of the Board.

 

January 6, 2012

New paramedics will improve service for residents 

Ottawa – The swearing-in of 21 new paramedic recruits today will bolster the Ottawa Paramedic Service’s ranks, resulting in improved emergency services for Ottawa residents. The new paramedics were sworn in during an official ceremony held today at the Ottawa Paramedic Service’s headquarters on Don Reid Drive.

“These men and women have taken an oath to uphold the highest standards of clinical care and conduct and will be providing emergency medical care to our citizens in difficult situations,” said Deputy Mayor Eli El-Chantiry. “I am truly grateful for their commitment and dedication to our community.”

The recruits were formally welcomed into the service by Deputy Mayor El-Chantiry, Councillor Mark Taylor, Chair of the Community and Protective Services Committee, Susan Jones, General Manager of Emergency and Protective Services and Ottawa Paramedic Service Chief Anthony Di Monte during a ceremony attended by their families, friends and co-workers.

“As Chair of the City’s Community and Protective Services Committee, I see on a daily basis the tremendous work of our paramedics and I feel privileged to receive these young recruits into one of the best paramedic services in Canada,” said Councillor Taylor.

“The ceremony is important in acknowledging the hard work and dedication of these new paramedics. The role of a paramedic is not always an easy one, and we must recognise not only the stressful work, but also the long road that have brought them here,” said Chief Di Monte.

The new recruits were hired in 2011 as part of the City of Ottawa’s plan to deal with the increase in the volume of calls the Ottawa Paramedic Service has experienced in the last decade. The addition of these new paramedics is a result of City Council’s commitment to providing residents with excellent service.

The requirements for becoming a paramedic in Ontario are stringent; all paramedics must meet or exceed provincial requirements, including being a graduate of a certified two or three-year paramedicine program. Graduates must then successfully pass a provincial licensing exam.

 

January 6, 2012

Ottawa Police Services Board and Mayor Watson salute departing Chief Vern White 

Ottawa – Ottawa Chief of Police Vern White was appointed to the Senate today by Prime Minister Stephen Harper. His departure will take effect on February 20, 2012.

“I want to congratulate Chief White on his appointment and thank him for his service to our City,” said Mayor Jim Watson, who is also a member of the Police Board. “Vern has worked tirelessly to improve safety for all of our citizens and this has been reflected in declining crime rates. He is a community builder and I look forward having an Ottawa voice in the Senate of Canada.”

“Ottawa is losing a leader who worked hard to build a better police force,” said Councillor Eli El-Chantiry, Chair of the Ottawa Police Services Board. “His efforts reached beyond traditional policing, as demonstrated by his leadership in working to expand youth drug treatment programs in our City. On behalf of the members of the Police Services Board, I wish him all the best in his role in the Government of Canada.”

Chief White was sworn in as Chief of Police of the Ottawa Police on May 22, 2007. Before joining the Ottawa Police Service, he led the Regional Police Service in Durham, a community of approximately 600,000 immediately east of Toronto. Before becoming Chief in Durham in 2005, he spent over 20 years with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

The Ottawa Police Services Board is a seven-member civilian body established under Provincial legislation, responsible for governing the Ottawa Police Service and for recruiting the Chief of Police.

December 28, 2011

City’s 55 approved sledding hills are now open 

Ottawa - The City of Ottawa has opened its 55 approved sledding hills. Approved sledding hill locations and safety tips are listed on ottawa.ca.

The ice pad located in front of Ben Franklin Place, 101 Centrepointe Drive is also open for skating. To learn more about outdoor rinks in your community, please call 613-580-2590 or visit ottawa.ca/skating.

Residents are reminded to keep safety in mind, and to wear helmets while participating in winter activities such as sledding and skating.

December 23, 2011

Cold weather caution 

Ottawa - As the temperature drops, the Medical Officer of Health and Ottawa Paramedic Services would like to remind residents to take precautions against the cold this winter. Here are some cold weather tips to help everyone have a safe and healthy winter.

Dress for the weather

The key to staying warm is to dress in layers and to make sure the outer layer protects you from wind and wetness. Mittens, hats and scarves are also important to protect exposed skin from frostbite.

Pay attention to Weather Forecasts and Storm Warnings

Check local weather forecasts so you can prepare and dress for the conditions.

At -15C, hypothermia becomes an increasing concern and overexposure to cold temperatures can result in severe injury and even death.

With a wind chill of -25, the risk of frostbite increases substantially so the City of Ottawa will be issuing a Frostbite Alert to local agencies that deal with those who are most vulnerable to the cold such as the homeless and small children.

When the wind chill reaches -35, a Frostbite Warning will be issued to the media to advise people that exposed skin can freeze in minutes.

Watch out for falls

Footwear with good traction is recommended when surfaces are slippery. Ice-grips slide on overtop of any footwear to prevent slipping. Consider carrying a small amount of sand, grit or non-clumping cat litter with you to sprinkle on icy patches when out walking. Seniors should take extra care since it is estimated that 1 in 3 seniors fall each year.

Help for the Homeless

The homeless are particularly vulnerable to cold weather so everyone should be vigilant if they see someone trying to live outdoors in extreme cold. There are services available to help the homeless including:

Emergency sleeping spaces in Ottawa shelters

Street outreach services to encourage homeless people to come in from the cold
Provision of emergency transportation and other services by the Salvation Army
To seek assistance for a homeless person, concerned citizens are encouraged to call 3-1-1 or the Help for the Homeless Phone Line at 580-2626. Calls are answered by the City of Ottawa Call Centre on a priority basis and referrals are made to the appropriate services.

Check out ottawa.ca/health or call the Ottawa Public Health Information Line 613-580-6744 (TTY: 613-580-9656) for more tips on dressing for cold weather and how to spot the symptoms of hypothermia and frostbite.

 

December 14, 2011

Plasco agreement framework approved

Ottawa – City Council today approved a framework for a long-term waste handling agreement with Plasco and delegated authority to the City Manager and the City Solicitor to execute the arrangement.

The agreement will place the City on the cutting edge of residential waste management by adding a fourth R – recover – to the environmental regime of reduce, reuse and recycle.
Council’s approval of the framework also marks the next logical step in an innovative economic development initiative that has seen the City help to incubate, test, and gain regulatory approval for a Clean-Tech system that has the potential to revolutionize waste management.

Under the agreement, all financial and business risk associated with the launch of a new technology is Plasco’s and the City stands to gain substantially if Plasco proves to be successful in the North American market.

Plasco’s technology converts residential waste that can’t be reused or recycled to gas, which is then burned to create electricity with low emissions. Under the framework, the City will send 109,500 tonnes of residential solid waste to Plasco for processing, creating a net 18 megawatts of power per year and extending the life of the City Trail Road landfill by 28 years from 2042 to 2070.

November 30, 2011

Council approves lowest tax rate in five years

Ottawa - City Council today approved the budget for 2012 with the lowest tax increase in five years – 2.39 per cent – in keeping with the guidelines set by Council last year.

Budget 2012 will allow the City to proceed with much needed city-building infrastructure projects. Ottawa on the Move will see roadwork and bridge repair, sidewalk upgrades, sewer and culvert improvements and cycling infrastructure investment across the length and breadth of Ottawa. The plan will advance the work by many years and help prepare the City to host Canada’s sesquicentennial.

“City Council set a solid fiscal framework when it assumed office last year and this budget continues on the promise of prudent financial management,” said Mayor Jim Watson. “We have listened to our residents and are delivering a predictable rate that also allows us to provide high quality services and opportunities for Ottawa families. “
Ottawa on the Move will see improvements to all transportation networks across the city. Council made the decision to maximize transportation choices for our residents in advance of the light rail construction period and in advance of Canada’s 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017. Through the Ottawa on the Move program, $340 million worth of projects will be completed and a record amount of funding will go towards cycling initiatives.

The budget includes a continued freeze on fees for City recreation programs, a transit fare increase limited to 2.5 per cent and an investment of $5.5 million in additional funding for OC Transpo to add some 66,000 service hours to address the almost six per cent growth in transit ridership on our transit system. Also, for the first time since 2004, the City is reducing the size of its workforce.

For the owner of an average home assessed at $304,800, the 2012 budget will mean a property tax increase of $75 for the year. The rate-supported budget for the water and sewer services will be presented in January.

After the draft budget was tabled at City Council in October, the City held four city-wide public meetings. The City also held meetings of its seven Standing Committees, the Library Board, the Board of Health, the Police Services Board and the Transit Commission. In total, there were 15 forums where the public could comment on the budget, in addition to a budget e-mail address set up by the Mayor.

“The 2012 budget plan was carefully planned not only for today but with an eye on the City’s long-term needs,” said City Manager Kent Kirkpatrick. “This budget will build our city infrastructure more quickly than planned, while saving taxpayers money through improved operations and a prudent amount of low-cost borrowing.”

The 2012 operating budget for the City of Ottawa is $2.5 billion and the capital budget is $850.8 million.

The City of Ottawa is in strong financial health, with the lowest debt-per-capita among the big Canadian cities. By accelerating our investment in capital projects, at interest rates below three per cent, it is estimated the City will save $12.9 million. The City will undertake approximately 150 infrastructure projects.

Among the many projects the City is proceeding with are:

• Construction of major new recreation facilities in Barrhaven and Kanata North
• Building 17 new parks
• Redevelopment of Arts Court
• Additional sewer system work to improve water quality in the Ottawa River
• 200 kilometres of road construction
• 70 kilometres of bicycle lane and road-shoulder construction
• 20 kilometres of additional sidewalks
• 120 road resurfacings and 27 bridge and overpass projects
• Targeted funds for the bus transit system to meet rising demand and ease crowding
• New systems for easy payment for transit service and to inform riders about bus arrivals
• 75 new double-decker buses to improve transit commuter service
• Six new trains for the highly successful O-Train service
• Improvements to the Kanata storm sewer system
• Changing the development approvals process to expedite approvals for projects that meet high environmental sustainability standards
• Reorganization of City staff, operations and technology to save money and improve service to residents through the new Service Ottawa department

A full package of budget information can be found at ottawa.ca/budget2012.

 

November 15, 2011

Reduce and reuse plastic bags before disposing of them in the garbage

Ottawa – Plastic bags are not accepted in the City’s Blue Box Recycling Program and with the Christmas shopping season upon us the City reminds residents that plastic bags, even biodegradable plastic bags, should be reused or brought back to Ottawa’s Take it Back! partners.

The City expanded the Blue Box Recycling Program in June of this year to include all household plastic containers. Plastic bags are not accepted in the City’s Green Bin Program for organic waste and are also not accepted in the Blue Box as they contaminate other recyclable material. While new technologies have been developed to facilitate the recycling of additional plastic containers, there are limited and/or inconsistent markets for plastic bags. However, many retail outlets in Ottawa are part of our Take it Back! Program and we recommend residents return their plastic bags to these retailers.

Information about acceptable items for the expanded Blue Box Recycling Program and about all of the City’s waste management, recycling programs and Take it Back! retailers can be found at ottawa.ca/recycle. The City’s website also features a searchable database, the Waste Explorer, where residents can enter the name of an item to find out how to properly recycle or dispose of it.

New additions to the Blue Box

• All food and household plastics containers #1 to #7, including takeout containers, bakery and produce containers (clam shells)
• Plastic pails (remove metal handle)
• Plastic planting trays
• Plastic flower pots
• Single-serve yogurt containers
• Clear plastic egg cartons

Acceptable Blue Box Items

• Glass (bottles and jars), Cartons (milk and juice), Tetra Pak (drink, soup and milk boxes) and Plastic (bottles, jars and jugs / tubs and tub lids (yogurt, sour cream, hand cleaner, margarine containers).
• Metal (soft drink cans / aluminum containers / aluminum foil, empty paint cans with lids removed / aerosol cans (empty hairspray, paint, whipping cream), spiral-wound canisters with metal ends (frozen concentrate cans, potato chip tube).

Residents may also call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) for more information.

 

November 8, 2011

Winter overnight parking regulations will be in effect starting Nov. 15

Ottawa – The City of Ottawa is reminding residents that winter overnight parking regulations are in effect beginning November 15. These regulations ensure that the City’s snow-clearing crews are able to keep Ottawa’s roads safe and clear for pedestrians, cyclists, public transit, and motorists. Your safety is a top priority for the City of Ottawa.

Between November 15 and April 1, when a snowfall of 7 cm or more is forecast by Environment Canada, parking is not permitted on all Ottawa streets between 1 a.m. and 7 a.m. This includes any forecast for a range of snow more than 7 cm, such as a snowfall forecast of 5 to 10 cm. Vehicles parked on the street when a restriction is in effect will be ticketed, even if it does not snow. Vehicle owners who have a municipal on-street parking permit are exempt from winter overnight parking restrictions.

Be in the know about snow. Sign up to receive e-mail or Twitter notifications of overnight parking restrictions at ottawa.ca/winterparking. After you sign up, you will receive an e-mail or Twitter alert every time a winter overnight parking restriction goes into effect or is lifted. The service is free and you can unsubscribe at anytime.

You can also find out if an overnight parking restriction is in effect by calling 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or by tuning in to local media.

Residents should also keep in mind that snow may be removed from city streets even when no snow is forecast. When day-time or night-time snow removal operations are planned, temporary “no parking” snow removal signs will be posted before snow removal begins. Vehicle owners are reminded not to park on streets where temporary “no parking” snow removal signs are placed. Vehicles parked during planned snow removal will be ticketed and towed to a nearby street. This restriction applies to all vehicles, including those with on-street parking permits.

For more information on winter overnight parking regulations, visit ottawa.ca/winterparking or call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401).

 

September 27, 2011

Registration for Snow Go programs now open

Ottawa - Seniors and persons with disabilities can now register for the City of Ottawa’s snow removal assistance programs.

The Snow Go Program helps seniors and persons with disabilities find reliable contractors and/or individuals who will perform the service of clearing snow from their private driveways and/or walkways. Once matched up with snow removal help, residents are responsible for making payments directly to the individual or contractor.

The Snow Go Assist Program provides financial assistance to eligible low-income seniors and persons with disabilities to pay for a portion of their snow removal costs. Approved participants may be reimbursed up to 50 per cent of the cost of snow clearing per event, up to a seasonal maximum of $250.

This is the fifth year the City of Ottawa is partnering with the Seniors Citizens Council and eight local home support agencies to deliver these two winter programs.

For more information about the Snow Go Program matching service and the Snow Go Assist Program, including eligibility criteria and application process, visit ottawa.ca/snowgo or call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401).