July 7, 2026, Newsletter

COUNCILLOR’S MESSAGE

Stories from the flood

Over the past seven days I have heard a lot of stories. And I don’t use the word “story” to diminish what’s happened in Ward 9. Since the extreme rainfall event of July 1, I’ve spoken to and heard from hundreds of Ward 9 residents, and they each have their own story to tell. Many of the stories have very similar content: “the water came up so fast”; or, “there’s the line that shows how high it got”; or, “I don’t know what to do now”; but each story is very personal.

I have been involved in far too many natural disasters. It started with the 2018 tornado that flattened my own community of Arlington Woods and many neighborhoods near it; the 2022 derecho that once again tore across my street and the entire city; the August 10, 2023, historical rainfall that flooded my basement; and now this flooding event, which has devastated the homes and lives of so many more people. Over these past 6 disaster-filled years, I’ve heard an encyclopedia’s worth of stories, some of them my own.

What I learned as a writer myself is that the story is never just about the events that take place. It’s about the human experience behind it.

What I've learned from all these recent conversations and emails and voice messages about flooding is that those stories aren’t just about the water, or the damage that it caused. It is about family photos that cannot be replaced. It is about the stress of dealing with insurance.  It is about wondering whether you can afford to rebuild the basement, and if it’s even worth it. It’s about some people being grateful to have friends and neighbours who were able to help. It’s about other people feeling isolated, alone, and abandoned, with no one to help them at all. It’s about the anger that this has happened, or for some, that it’s happened again. It’s about the fear many experienced seeing the water level rise, and the fear that many will now have every time heavy rain appears in the forecast.  

For some residents, the July 1 flood was their first experience with this kind of loss – their first story. For others, whether in Craig Henry, or Carleton Heights, General Burns, Fisher Heights, or elsewhere, especially in parts of Fisher Glen, Carleton Heights and surrounding neighbourhoods, it was the second major flood in less than three years. When I hear those stories, I don't just hear frustration. I hear residents asking a fair question: why is this happening repeatedly, and what are we going to do about it?

Answering that question must now be a focus. We owe residents more than cleanup assistance after each disaster. We owe them a serious effort to understand where flooding is recurring, how homes are flooding, whether storm sewer, sanitary sewer, or overland flow issues are involved, and what practical steps can be taken to reduce future risk. That is why I am pushing for a comprehensive review not only of the July 2026 event, but also of the August 2023 flooding events, improved flood mapping, and a closer examination of stormwater management and drainage challenges in our older neighbourhoods.

There’s another side to these stories that we’re only now beginning to see. For many families, the flood was only the beginning of the challenge. Once the water recedes, residents are left facing damaged drywall, soaked insulation, ruined belongings, insurance claims, as well as an invisible threat that can develop in the days and weeks that follow: mold. Health experts warn that mold can begin growing quickly after a flood, turning a property-damage disaster into a potential health issue as well. That is why I am now urging the City to explore a coordinated flood-recovery and mold-prevention response, including public-health outreach, support for vulnerable residents, volunteer assistance, and discussions with other levels of government about what additional resources may be available. Just as we need a long-term plan to reduce future flooding, we also need to act quickly to help residents recover safely from this one.

Since July 1, much of my role has been to try and prevent a bad story from becoming an even worse story. That’s meant urgently drawing the City's attention to Canfield Road—which had effectively become a river after Graham Creek rose 25 feet—and helping secure one of the City's 6-inch pump trucks to drain the area. It meant rushing out to buy heavy-duty rope so I could help a resident pull a large wooden deck away from a culvert grate before it obstructed the flow of water. It meant advocating for practical measures to help residents dispose of flood-damaged materials, including recommending that fees at the Trail Waste Facility be waived, which the City at first declined, and then agreed to do. It has also meant asking residents to document what happened on their streets so we can help build an accurate record of vulnerable areas and recurring flooding patterns. Most importantly, it has meant continuing to visit affected neighbourhoods in person, listening, learning, and witnessing these experiences firsthand. Every flooded basement has a story behind it, and the more of those stories we understand, the better equipped we will be to both support recovery today and reduce flood risk tomorrow.

The next chapter: neighbours helping neighbours 

Since July 1, I've heard from many residents who are overwhelmed by the scale of the cleanup ahead of them. Some are seniors. Some have physical limitations. Some are uninsured or underinsured. Some simply don't know where to begin. 

One of my concerns is that a lot of people need help, but they don’t know how to find that help, or it’s not immediately available.  But I believe there’s a lot of people out there who are willing to help. 

One lesson I've learned from every disaster I've experienced—whether it was the 2018 tornado, the 2022 derecho, or the floods of 2023 and 2026—is that recovery doesn't happen through government alone. It happens when communities come together. 

In the next few days, I’m looking to help build some kind of volunteer-support network for flood-affected residents, in the same way that I did after the windstorms in 2018 and 2022. I’ve got a recruitment tool ready to go. But since volunteer coordination is not something that the City of Ottawa is able to do, I need to find some organizations or community associations that can be involved. It might end being my office. I’ll aim to send something out in the next few days.  

Samaritan House Transitional Housing in Trend-Arlington

Many residents have recently learned about the opening of a small transitional housing residence on McClellan Road in Trend-Arlington, operated by Samaritan House Ottawa, a longstanding and reputable non-profit organization that supports refugee claimants as they settle into life in Canada.

This residence will accommodate up to 11 adults and is part of a housing model that Ottawa and other municipalities have increasingly supported as an alternative to large congregate shelters. Rather than concentrating dozens or hundreds of people in a single facility, smaller "scattered-site" homes provide a more residential environment while helping newcomers access employment, language training, community connections, and permanent housing.

It's important to note that this use is fully permitted under Ottawa's Zoning By-law and does not require rezoning, special approvals, or public hearings. Like any residential property, the home must comply with applicable building, fire safety, and property standards requirements. The operator is responsible for ensuring that those obligations are met.

Over the past several days, I have met with concerned residents to listen to and address their questions and concerns, some of which are based either on misinformation, or anxiety from uncertainty. I have also met with both the property owner and representatives of Samaritan House to discuss operations, community communications, and how they can continue engaging constructively with the neighbourhood.

One of the themes that emerged from these conversations is that many residents simply want an opportunity to learn more. To help facilitate that, Samaritan House and the adjacent church are planning a community "housewarming" event in the coming weeks, which my office will help facilitate. This will provide an opportunity for Trend-Arlington residents to meet the operators, learn more about the program, and get to know some of their new neighbours in a welcoming and informal setting.

As additional information becomes available, I will continue to share updates with residents.

And now for some fun news

I was going to hold off on sharing this, but I think we could all use some good news and leisure right about now.

One of the most unique entertainment destinations in Ottawa has officially opened its doors in Ward 9. Experience Social, located at 250 Greenbank Road, is now welcoming visitors and has quickly earned attention as Canada’s largest pinball arcade.

The family-friendly venue features an impressive mix of classic and modern pinball machines, along with arcade games, pool, air hockey, and more—all available for a flat $20 admission with unlimited play. I have now been there twice – and yes, I paid for my admission – and it was an amazing way to blow off steam.

What makes Experience Social especially noteworthy is the expertise behind it. In addition to co-owner Anthony Scacella’s expertise in running some pretty fabulous pubs and restaurants, co-owner Mike Loftus is a leading figure in Canada’s pinball community and operates both the Canadian Pinball Museum and Pinball Medics, one of the country’s premier pinball service and parts companies. Visitors can even glimpse the on-site workshop where machines are restored and maintained.

It’s exciting to see a business bring something this distinctive, fun, and community-focused to Nepean. If you’re looking for a unique outing with family or friends this summer, Experience Social is well worth a visit.

I’ve already spoken with my provincial counterpart, Nepean MPP Tyler Watt, about this. He’s equally excited, and his office is in the same mall. He and I are talking about supporting Experience Social’s official opening, which we hear will happen very soon. Stay tuned and get ready for some pinball!

CITY WORKS

Free Transit for Youth This Summer

This summer, youth aged 11 to 18 can ride OC Transpo buses, O-Train, and Para Transpo for free from July 1 to August 31, as approved by City Council in the 2026 Budget.

Beginning September 1, free transit will continue for youth on weekday evenings after 5:00 p.m., weekends, and statutory holidays.

To access free transit, youth will need a PRESTO card with the appropriate Pre-Teen or Youth card type set at a participating Shoppers Drug Mart, Loblaws, or Real Canadian Superstore location. Students who have already received an OC Transpo transit pass through their school transportation authority can continue using the same card throughout the summer.

Summer 2026 OC Transpo Service Changes

OC Transpo's summer service changes took effect on June 28 and will remain in place until August 29. This seasonal service includes schedule adjustments across the transit network, changes to O-Train service, and updates to support summer travel and major events.

Residents of Ward 9 should note that there are no major changes to local bus routes as part of the summer service update.

Some of the more notable changes across the network include:

• Reduced frequency on some bus routes, particularly on weekends, resulting in longer wait times on affected routes. OC Transpo has indicated these temporary changes are intended to accommodate preventative fleet maintenance and current staffing levels over the summer.
• O-Train Line 4 (Airport) will operate every 24 minutes on weekends through the summer. OC Transpo has advised that this is a temporary schedule while operator hiring and training continues, with additional service available during major events at the Cohere Centre if required.
• Route 11 will receive schedule adjustments to better reflect observed travel times, while Route 98 will see minor Sunday morning service improvements.

As always, riders are encouraged to check the latest schedules before travelling, as departure times may have changed even where routes remain the same.

Parking on Bateman Drive

In our last issue of the newsletter, we revisited the ongoing issue regarding over-parking and dangerous congestion on Bateman Drive, which is attributed to the high volume of vehicles arriving at and departing Woodvale Pentecostal Church. This church has already seen a lot of growth in terms of its membership in its last few years and is also currently in the midst of an expansion, which has eliminated a considerable amount of its onsite parking, and which may also result in more growth to its membership.

In addition to talking to residents about their concerns about the situation on Bateman Drive, and the solutions that they have proposed, we have also met recently with senior leadership at Woodvale Pentecostal Church. While we understand residents’ frustration with the situation that is being caused by churchgoers, we also know that the Church is actively supportive of additional measures to address the situation, and that the Church has also been a very active and valued pillar in the community.

From the meeting that Councillor Devine had with the Church a few weeks ago, we will be looking to quickly pursue some of the following measures:

• Increasing the parking restrictions on Bateman Drive
• Increasing our efforts to have By-Law regularly present on Sundays to enforce current restrictions
• Adjusting lane markings on Bateman Drive, which could allow for vehicles to enter / exit from Greenbank Road more efficiently
• Adjusting traffic signal lights at Bateman Drive / Greenbank Road
• Actively monitoring the efficient use of the Church’s current parking lots, to ensure that they are used to their full capacity

More Parks Getting Recycling & Compost Bins

The City is expanding three-stream waste stations to 48 more parks in 2026, including Craig Henry Park and Steve MacLean Park. These stations provide separate bins for garbage, recycling, and organics, making it easier for residents to sort waste while enjoying local parks.

The expansion is part of Ottawa’s Parks Waste Diversion Strategy, which will add three-stream collection to approximately 350 parks between 2026 and 2029. Organics service will also be introduced at off-leash dog parks starting in 2027. Cleaner parks mean less litter, fewer pests, and a better experience for everyone. Residents are reminded that park bins are for waste generated in parks only and not for household garbage.

Road Resurfacing coming to Tennyson Street and Cordell Court

The City of Ottawa has provided an initial update on the 2026 Central 2 Resurfacing Project, which includes road rehabilitation work on portions of Tennyson Street and Cordell Court in Ward 9.

A construction schedule has not yet been finalized, but the City will provide additional details once available. Residents in affected areas will receive a second, road-specific notice several weeks before construction begins.

Planned locations and scope of work:

• Tennyson Street (Fifeshire Crescent to Cordell Court): concrete repairs, pavement milling, and installation of new binder and surface asphalt layers.
• Cordell Court (cul-de-sac to Tennyson Street): concrete repairs, pavement milling, and installation of new asphalt binder and surface courses.

Before work starts, residents can expect advance notifications regarding project timelines, any night work, and construction activities. Project updates will also be posted on the City’s website and included in regular road rehabilitation status reports.

I'll share additional information, including anticipated timelines and impacts, once the contractor's schedule is available.

Nepean Sportsplex Lawn Bowling Project Update

Work is underway on the Nepean Sportsplex Lawn Bowling Turf and Lighting Replacement Project. The contractor has mobilized on site and is completing initial removals, along with installation of new lighting, which is expected to be finished by June 30.

Due to the long lead time required for the new turf, construction will pause over the summer before resuming in mid-August. The project remains on track for substantial completion by September 16. Updates will continue to be provided through the monthly project status report as work progresses.

E-Scooter Season is Here – Ride Safely and Responsibly

As e-scooters become a more common sight on Ottawa's streets and pathways, the City of Ottawa is reminding residents to ride safely and help keep everyone moving safely.

Whether you're using a shared or personal e-scooter, remember these key rules:

• Ride in bike lanes, cycle tracks, multi-use pathways, or on roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or less. E-scooters are not permitted on sidewalks.
• One rider per scooter. Passengers are not permitted.
• Riders must be at least 16 years old, and helmets are required for riders under 18 (strongly recommended for everyone).
• Use a bell or horn and ensure your scooter has front and rear lights when riding after dusk.
• Obey all traffic laws, including those related to distracted and impaired driving.
• Watch for pedestrians and give them plenty of space, especially on shared pathways.
• Drivers also have an important role to play by slowing down around e-scooter users, giving them at least one metre of space when passing, and sharing the road courteously.

For more information, including where e-scooters are permitted and other safety tips, visit the City's e-scooter information page.  

Reduce Waste this Summer: Free City Events

Looking for ways to reduce waste, save money, and give items a second life? Solid Waste Services is hosting several free events across Ottawa this summer. Residents can attend Repair Cafés, where skilled volunteers help fix household items such as electronics, furniture, textiles, and small appliances, keeping them out of landfill. Upcoming dates include August 8 at the Nepean Sportsplex.

Residents can also safely dispose of unwanted hazardous materials at the City's Household Hazardous Waste events. Items such as batteries, pool chemicals, paint, and motor oil can be dropped off free of charge at events taking place throughout the summer, including July 25 in Kanata, August 8 at the Innes Snow Dump, and August 30 at Tunney's Pasture.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Viewmount Drive Neighborhood Traffic Calming Project

Our office was pleased to learn last year that Viewmount Drive (from Merivale Road to Fisher Avenue) was approved for safety improvements through the City of Ottawa’s Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program (NTC), which focuses on addressing requests for permanent, engineered, traffic calming on existing local and collector streets within neighbourhoods. As Viewmount Drive has always been one of the most problematic collector roads in Ward 9 when it comes to speeding, we were very pleased to see that our efforts to get Viewmount Drive considered for this program were successful.

The Viewmount Drive Neighborhood Traffic Calming Project will be done in conjuction with the Viewmount Drive Road Resurfacing Project. The current construction timeline for these two projects is for some time in the next two years.

The public consultation phase for the Viewmount Drive Neighborhood Traffic Calming Project is now active on Engage Ottawa. Participating in the consultation may require signing in to Engage Ottawa. 

• Late last month a flyer was mailed to residences in the immediately affected area. This flyer provides information on the consultation phase, and links to the project webpage.
• The City has launched a Project Website, which includes information on key traffic safety issues as well as two options for the recommended traffic calming plans.  
• The City has concurrently launched a Survey for the Viewmount Drive Traffic Calming Study, which will be open until July 21. This survey will provide useful info from residents to ensure that the community’s needs and preferences are considered in the final plan, and that residents can provide their preference for either of the two design options.
• At some point between August 20 – 25, Councillor Devine will host an online Public Info Session, where the project will be presented by City staff, and where we may also have feedback on input collected through the survey. Specific info on this session will be made available later in July.

Zena Street and Barlyn Avenue Proposed Sidewalk Project

As part of the Transportation Master Plan Update, which was approved in July 2025, one of the Active Transportation projects that was approved in that Master Plan is scheduled to start its public consultation phase in the coming weeks.

This project is a proposed plan to construct a sidewalk, upgrade streetlighting, as well as build new crosswalks and other safety features along Zena Street and Barlyn Avenue, including a short segment on Sunnycrest Drive. In addition to serving residents of Fisher Heights, this project will also benefit students who attend a local school, as well as transit riders walking between Baseline Road and Meadowlands Drive.

The construction phase of this project is not scheduled to begin before late 2027, at the earliest. Following the consultation phase that is about to begin, the project will then enter a design and planning phase.

Here are the details for the consultation phase: 

• Last week a flyer was mailed to residences in the distribution area shown on the map below. This flyer will provide information on the consultation phase, links to the project webpage, as well as contact info for the project manager.
• The City has launched a Project Website, where residents can view the project plans in more detail.
• On July 14^th, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., the City will be hosting a drop-in style public open house at Fisher Heights Community Centre (31 Sutton Place), where residents can get more details on the project and talk with City staff. There will not be a formal presentation. 
• Following the July 14^th open house, the City will issue a resident survey for people to provide their feedback on the project.

Southern Corridor Development - Public Survey Open

The National Capital Commission (NCC) is advancing plans to develop the Southern Corridor lands at 1497 Woodroffe Avenue and 1710 Merivale Road through its Lands for Homes program. The 36-hectare site, located between Woodroffe Avenue and Merivale Road, is intended to help address the housing shortage by supporting the development of new homes, including affordable and inclusive housing options. The property is bordered by Merivale Road to the east, Woodroffe Avenue to the west, the rail corridor to the south, and the Meadowlands community to the north.

This project is taking place immediately adjacent to Ward 9 and is closely connected to the ongoing Baseline-Merivale Secondary Plan work, which will help shape the future of this broader area. The NCC has launched a public survey and is seeking resident feedback on the future development of these lands. I encourage interested residents to participate and share their views on this important city-building opportunity.

Healthy Greenspaces: Community Action on Invasive Plants

The City is developing a community-led invasive plant program to help residents and community groups tackle invasive plant species growing in City greenspaces.

From now until Monday, July 20, you can share your input via an Engage Ottawa survey on the tools, knowledge and supports you or your community group would need to help protect green spaces in your community.

PUBLIC HEALTH & SAFETY

Sports Betting: Know the Risks Before You Play

With the growing popularity of online sports betting and major events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, placing a bet has never been easier.

For many people, sports betting is an occasional form of entertainment. While the ease of online betting can make it harder for some individuals to manage the time and money they spend gambling, the stigma associated with problem gambling can sometimes make it difficult for individuals to recognize they have a problem. Here are some of the things that prevent people from seeking help:

• Not recognizing that their gambling may be contributing to problems in their life
• Hoping the issue will be resolved on its own
• Not being aware of local services and resources, or not knowing that treatment and support are available
• Worrying about what family or friends might think
• Concerns about the impact on employment

Research suggests that certain factors may increase vulnerability to gambling-related problems, including frequent exposure to gambling advertising, easy access to betting platforms, financial stress, and the belief that gambling can provide a dependable source of income. Before placing a bet, set clear limits on your spending and time, and remember that gambling is not a reliable way to make money.

To learn more about safer gambling practices, available supports, and the continuum of gambling, visit have THAT talk About Gambling.

Party Safer

Ottawa Public Health’s Party Safer initiative encompasses a range of programs aimed at reducing harms related to substance use. Got tickets for that festival? Heading to prom? Going camping or cottaging this summer? Don't miss the Digital Party Safer Kit! It’s packed with free online trainings, tips, print materials, social media tools, and community resources.

Help us spread the word about these tools designed to help Ottawa stay informed and safer - before, during, and after a night out or event:

• Take free online trainings available 24/7 (participants receive a certificate of completion – add it to your resume)
• Share Party Safer Tips with your friends
• Print posters, fact sheets, and pocket cards for your event or business
• Learn about violence prevention and bystander intervention resources
• Explore information on commonly used substances, harm reduction services, mental health, addictions and substance use health resources: Party Safer - Ottawa Public Health and follow us @OttawaHealthSante for the latest Party Safer news

Last summer, Ottawa Public Health’s Addictions and Substance Use Health Team engaged with over 4,500 people at community events and festivals, of which, over 1,000 participated in overdose prevention and response training and accessed no-cost naloxone kits.

The team is gearing up for another summer of fun and safer partying outreach. Make sure to say hello at the Party Safer tent at various festivals, community and campus events throughout the year!

Respiratory Illness Update

Emerald Plaza Public Health Services

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

82 Colonnade

The Redeemer Christian High School located at this address has submitted an application to expand the building, adding more capacity and facilities. The application asks for a two storey addition to the existing building, a redeveloped parking lot, and some added outdoor classroom and recreational space. You can provide feedback and check out the full details of the application on the city’s Development Applications web site.

COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Tools 4 School

Registration Open! Families with students in kindergarten to Grade 12 can register for NROCRC’s Tools 4 School Backpack Program until July 31, 2026. Spaces are limited. To register, call 613-596-5626 ext. 222 or email [email protected].

EarlyON Manordale Moving to Beechliffe Park

Culture Day with AFIFO

• Location: Trend Arlington Pavillion, 50 Bellman Drive
• Date & Time: Saturday, July 18^th from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm

AFIFO Bottle Drive

Support AFIFO’s Bottle Drive! Donate your empty bottles and help AFIFO raise funds for a larger space to support its growing donation programs. Drop off bottles at 4104 Kelly Farm Drive or arrange a pick-up by contacting Carine at 613-790-3092. Every bottle makes a difference!

Blues Fest Tickets

• Location: LeBreton Flats Park, 1 Vimy Place, Ottawa
• Date & Time: Sunday, July 19, 2026, Festival starts at 5:00 pm
• Cost: Free (one ticket per person)

Children aged 9 and under can attend for free with a parent who has a ticket. Children aged 10 and older need their own ticket. If you would like a ticket, please email Gulay Karadere at [email protected] to register. Tickets are limited and will be given on a first-come, first-served basis.

Craig Henry Summer Fun Day

• Location: Craig Henry Park
• Date & Time: Saturday, July 25^th from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm 

Forest Teachings Workshop

Councillor Devine is proud to host and help facilitate this important workshop, which combines a film screening with a hands-on art activity inspired by the teachings of Algonquin Elder Albert Dumont. Participants will first watch Forest Light, Forest Wisdom, a film in which Albert shares stories, teachings, and reflections from a forest walk, exploring themes such as peace, wellness, purpose, humanity, and our relationship with the natural and spiritual worlds. A facilitated discussion will follow, giving participants an opportunity to reflect on the film and share their thoughts and feelings. The second part of the workshop invites participants to express and deepen their learning through art, using creative mediums such as collage, watercolour, sculpture, or mixed media. The workshop aims to foster healing, personal growth, and spiritual connection while also educating Ottawa residents and visitors about the Algonquin people and their enduring presence on this land. Through heart-led learning and creativity, the program seeks to build understanding, respect, friendship, and a stronger commitment to anti-racism and anti-oppression.

• Location: Trend Arlington Community Centre, 50 Bellman Drive
• Date & Time: Sunday, July 26^th from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Purchase your ticket here. Space is limited to 50 participants.

Repair Café

• Location: Nepean Sportsplex
• Date & Time: August 8^th – Drop-in from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm