This past long weekend we had lovely weather and it was a great opportunity to be outside while still maintaining physical distance from others. The National Capital Commission announced last Thursday that the SJAM Parkway up to Dominion Transit Station would be closed to vehicles. This announcement was a good start in responding to requests…
Last weekend we received the welcome news from the City that residents could have restricted access to the open green space at our City parks to escape from the confines of the indoors and our properties to enjoy some much-needed fresh air and activity. Expanding on this, the Province has announced additional seasonal services and…
As we look ahead to Mother’s Day this Sunday, it’s a perfect time to stop and remember the women in our lives. The Covid-19 pandemic has disproportionally impacted women. They are more highly represented in caregiver roles, both in the family and in the workforce. These days, they are often carrying heavier loads with children…
No to Expanding Urban Boundaries On Monday, May 11th, there will be a special joint meeting of the Planning Committee and the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee on our City’s growth management strategy. Up for discussion is whether the City should allow growth by expanding its current urban boundaries, only concentrate growth by intensification within…
I have just learned about an exciting community initiative happening in Brampton and are thinking about trying it out here in Ottawa. This is a great way to get your own fresh produce this summer and help your neighbours at the same time. The Brampton Backyard Program is the brainchild of Brampton City Councillor Doug…
The Ottawa Citizen April 20, 2020 by Councillor Theresa Kavanagh It’s been a little over a month since everything about life in Ottawa changed overnight. COVID-19 has had far-reaching impacts on every aspect of our lives. Every day our city identifies and works on new solutions to the latest issue arising from the pandemic. Already…
The need for emergency housing As many of us are staying home during this pandemic, we can only imagine what it is like for those who have no home. Even before our present COVID-19 situation, Ottawa City Council declared homelessness and the lack of affordable housing an emergency. The pandemic crisis has exasperated the…
Despite already weathering a few weeks of staying at home, it is clear that the COVID-19 pandemic will not be over soon. This week the Mayor announced an extension of the closures to city facilities until June 30. We have also seen the implementation of strict enforcement measures which includes giving fines to those who…
This week the rules for physical distancing have been tightened up so that people are not allowed to hang out in parks or use any of the structures, play areas or facilities. This is a rule brought in by the Provincial Government that the City must follow. It is very difficult, especially when the weather…
While we are all physical distancing, we can still stay in touch virtually. I would like to invite you to my first on-line video chat on Thursday, April 2 @ 11 am. I hope you can join me. I will start holding regular on-line chats. If you would like to participate, please register by emailing…