Hi neighbour,
Hope you had a good week. I’m definitely looking forward to some sunshine after all these April showers! Here are some updates from my office from the past 7 days:
Update on the Spring Freshet
Many of you may have already heard that rising waters levels along the Ottawa River could create possible flooding in low-lying areas over the coming weeks. Residents living along the Ottawa River should monitor the City’s Spring flooding website, and the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board website regularly for the latest updates. S
and bag depots have been set up at the following locations in Bay Ward:
- Barry Mullen Park parking lot at Grandview Road
- End of Jamieson Street
- End of Rowatt Street
- Belltown Dome, 2915 Haughton Avenue
Next steps for health and housing collaboration
Last Friday, I was honoured to participate in the Ottawa Health and Housing Symposium with leaders from City Council, Ottawa Public Health, Ottawa Community Housing, and healthcare organizations from across Ottawa. We announced the creation of a Health, Housing and Homelessness Action Table to strengthen coordination across sectors, improve access to healthcare and housing for vulnerable populations, and reduce pressure on health and emergency systems. I’ve spoken before about the need for more supportive housing units in Ottawa, and I’m looking forward to working with this group to advance this urgent need. I’ll share more updates through this newsletter when the Health, Housing, and Homelessness Action Plan is released.
City announces details of partnership with Build Canada Homes
Last Friday, at a joint meeting of the Planning and Housing and Finance and Corporate Services Committees, we voted to approve the City’s partnership with Build Canada Homes, the federal agency that launched in 2025 to help grow the supply of mixed-income housing in Canada. Ottawa is the first municipality to sign an agreement with Build Canada Homes. The partnership includes an investment of $150 million from the federal government, and up to $250 million from the city, for the development of 3,000 homes, with 1,800 of those homes being affordable, or deeply affordable. While I welcome the creation of more housing in Ottawa, particularly deeply affordable units, I’m going to continue to advocate to ensure housing is accessible for everyone, and growth is balanced with investment in, parks, recreation centers, and active transportation links to support growing communities.
Planning and Housing Committee: 67 Kempster Avenue
On Wednesday, the Planning and Housing Committee approved a zoning by-law amendment for 67 Kempster Avenue to accommodate the establishment of a retail store, to permit the owner to establish a bicycle and ski rental and repair business within the proposed addition. You can learn more about the approved application in the report online.
Reminder: Upcoming Community Information Sessions
I hope to see you at some of the upcoming community information sessions in Bay Ward over the next few weeks! Here’s a reminder of some opportunities to meet your neighbours, and share your views on projects in our community:
- Community Information Session: 1746 Carling/Boyd/Kerr (Monday, April 20, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM, Virtual)
Join me to learn more about an upcoming development in Bay Ward. The applicant is seeking a zoning by-law amendment to permit two high-rise buildings on Carling, a mid-rise building along Kerr and a park at the northwest corner of Boyd and Kerr. The developers will present their plans, followed by a moderated Q & A with community members. Check out the event page for more information and to register.
- Bay Ward Coffee Chat (Thursday, April 30, 4-6 pm, Bridgehead Coffee, 2140 Carling Ave)
Drop by my next coffee chat anytime between 4 and 6 pm to raise issues, have your questions answered, and meet some of your neighbours. I always enjoy these opportunities to connect with residents in person, and look forward to seeing you there. All are welcome!
Read the full newsletter for more news and events across Bay Ward!
