COUNCILLOR’S MESSAGE
Pride & Honour
Hey there, Ward 9.
So, let me just start off by saying how happy I am to be finally issuing another Ward 9 Newsletter, since we weren't allowed to do so during the Election Blackout. And even now, we're definitely limited in what we're allowed to say, post-election.
According to the Election-Related Resources Policy (ERRP): "Members of Council shall ensure that any communications materials issued to constituents following an election do not include reference to election-related matters." I can't even thank everyone for their support, which is all that I'd want to do, if I were allowed. And so, I won't do that here. Obviously, there's lots to say, and over the next few days, I'll communicate on my Facebook page. If you don't already follow me there, please do.
According to the ERRP, what I am allowed to do is to "include a general statement to the effect of being proud or honored to continue to represent [our] constituents."
Nothing could be more true.
My team and I are already back at work, while also collecting our signs off public and private property. There's certainly no rest, as all of Council gets right back to business. In our next newsletter, I'll be sure to give you some insight into what I'm looking to start focusing on, based not only on my campaign platform, but also what I heard from all of you during the campaign.
And I want to say a big "hello" to all of our new subscribers. We heard loud and clear during the election just how much appreciation there was for our Ward 9 Newsletter, which my team and I were so happy to hear. It's my commitment to all of you – whether you're a supporter or not – to continue being transparent as I share my positions on the various questions and challenges that Council is facing, and information about what's happening in Ward 9 and across the City.
It will be my pride and honour to do so for the four years.
CITY WORKS
Express Bus returns to Ward 9 on November 2nd - Route 582
We’re excited to share that OC Transpo’s Express Route 582 (formerly Route 282) is returning on Monday, November 2! After losing this service in April 2025 through the New Ways to Bus program, we’ve been working to bring it back, and we’re thrilled to see a version of it restored.
More express bus service means faster, more direct commutes for residents. While we know the return of the 582 won’t benefit everyone in the ward, it’s an important step toward improving transit options for those who rely on it. We’ll continue pushing for more direct service and better transit connections in other parts of Ward 9 as well.
The 582 will operate two trips during the morning peak and two during the afternoon peak, running between scheduled Route 82 trips. With both routes operating, riders along the shared portion of the route will have buses roughly every 15 minutes during these periods. For more info about the schedule and its stops, view the full schedule here.
Here’s what you need to know:
The 582 will travel through Craig Henry and Trend-Arlington before heading north on Greenbank Road. It will serve the same stops as Route 82 between Craig Henry Drive and Greenbank Road at Lisa Avenue, then travel directly to Tunney’s Pasture without the additional detours made by Route 82.
- AM service to Tunney’s Pasture: Departures from Craig Henry Drive and Ivylea Street at 6:44 a.m. and 7:45 a.m.
- PM service to Craig Henry: Departures from Tunney’s Pasture at 3:38 p.m. and 4:48 p.m.
Help us show OC Transpo that this route is needed!
OC Transpo has indicated that strong ridership during the first two weeks could help support adding more trips to the 582. If this route works for your commute, please use it and help us demonstrate the demand for express service in Ward 9.
Councillor Devine plans to be on that first bus on November 2, handing out a few party favours to celebrate its return!
So, let’s pack that bus, Ward 9!
Planned Power Outage – Benlea Drive and Lavonne Court
Thursday, November 5, 2026 | 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Hydro Ottawa will be replacing electrical infrastructure affecting some customers on Benlea Drive and Lavonne Court. The work will require a planned power outage, and affected residents should be notified directly by Hydro Ottawa.
Residents may also notice construction activity and traffic control measures in the area. If the work is postponed, the backup date is Friday, November 6.
PUBLIC HEALTH & SAFETY
It's time to get your vaccines!
Starting Monday, October 26, COVID-19 and flu vaccines will be available to everyone aged six months and older who lives, works or attends school in Ontario. Vaccination is the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness, complications and hospitalization from respiratory viruses.
COVID-19 and influenza (flu) vaccines
People can receive their COVID-19 and flu vaccines through their primary care provider, where available, or at participating pharmacies for those aged two years and older. Many pharmacies offer both walk-in services and appointments. OPH encourages people to contact their primary care provider or book an appointment with their pharmacy, and to call ahead to confirm vaccine availability. COVID-19 and flu vaccines can be safely received during the same appointment.
OPH will be offering COVID-19 and flu vaccines to eligible populations who face barriers to accessing vaccination through a pharmacy or their primary care provider. Eligible groups include newcomers without OHIP and children under age five and their household members. Please visit our flu and COVID-19 webpages for additional information on clinic eligibility and how to book an appointment.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that affects the lungs and airways. While RSV usually causes mild illness, it is more likely to result in serious complications in infants, children under 24 months with certain medical conditions, and older adults. Vaccines and other immunization options are available to help prevent severe illness and hospitalization caused by RSV.
-
Infants and High-risk children: There are two options available to help protect infants and high-risk children from RSV:
- Infants born on or after April 1, 2026, who are less than eight months of age, and children up to 24 months of age who are at increased risk of severe RSV illness, are eligible to receive the RSV monoclonal antibody. It can be given through birthing hospitals, primary care providers, and pediatricians.
- A vaccine in pregnancy is also available to individuals between 28 and 36 weeks gestation who are expected to deliver near the start of, or during, the RSV season. Pregnant individuals seeking vaccination should speak to their primary care provider.
- For most infants, either maternal RSV vaccination during pregnancy or the infant RSV monoclonal antibody product is recommended, but not both.
- Older adults: All adults aged 75 years and older as well as adults aged 60 to 74 years who meet specific high-risk criteria are eligible to receive the RSV vaccine. Individuals who have previously received the RSV vaccine do not need to be immunized again this year. Eligible residents are encouraged to contact their primary care provider to receive the RSV vaccine. Currently, pharmacies do not administer RSV immunizations as part of Ontario’s publicly funded immunization program.
Eligible individuals who are unable to receive RSV immunization through their primary care provider may be able to access it through Ottawa Public Health (OPH). Please visit the OPH website for eligibility criteria and booking information.
To learn more about respiratory viruses, vaccine availability, managing symptoms and where and when to seek care, visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/RespVirus.
Respiratory Illness Update
We are well into the fall season, and while the weather has been largely mild so far, more people are heading indoors for work and school and socializing--and that means more transmission of the usual assortment of viruses. So, stay home when you're sick, crack a window when you can and, when you are looking for a little more protection, don't hesitate to put on a well-fitting mask.
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
Committee to hear settlement proposal for 2175 Prince of Wales
A long-standing development proposal for the vacant lands at 2175 Prince of Wales Drive, near West Hunt Club Road, is moving forward. City planning staff are recommending that Council support an Ontario Land Tribunal settlement that would permit a mix of employment and commercial uses, including offices, retail, restaurants, hotels, entertainment uses, and warehousing, with building heights of up to nine storeys.
The application has been under review for many years and has been revised in response to public feedback and technical studies. Notably, the maximum height has been reduced from 12 to nine storeys, while environmentally sensitive lands along the Rideau River would be protected through an Open Space zoning designation. Additional studies related to traffic, servicing, environmental impacts, heritage, and noise will be required before any future development proceeds.
Residents have raised concerns about traffic, building height, environmental protection, and compatibility with nearby neighbourhoods. The proposal is scheduled to be considered by the Planning and Housing Committee on November 4, with a final decision by City Council expected on November 12.
Residents who wish to provide comments can register to speak (delegate) at the November 4 Planning and Housing Committee meeting by contacting the Committee Coordinator before 8:30 a.m. on November 4. Written submissions may also be provided and will form part of the public record.
COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS
NROCRC EarlyON Calendar
Pregnancy to Postnatal Workshop
Free prenatal and postnatal workshop for pregnant parents and families with children under 24 months. Register by October 29.
The Craig Henry Community Association is Hiring!
Looking to get involved in your community? The Craig Henry Community Association is seeking volunteers for Secretary and Social Media Manager positions. Help support local communications, community engagement, and association activities. Interested applicants can submit a letter of interest.
Native Seed Giveaway – Copeland Park
Trinity United Church (1099 Maitland Avenue)
Saturday, November 7, from 1 to 3 p.m.
The Ottawa Wildflower Seed Library is hosting a free native seed giveaway at Trinity United Church. No donation is required to receive seeds, and each packet contains enough seeds to grow at least 3–5 plants. Volunteers will be available to answer questions and provide growing instructions.
Browse the seed catalogue ahead of the event to see what’s available. Donations of seeds and other supplies are also welcome.
For more information, visit the Ottawa Wildflower Seed Library website.