From the desk of Councillor David Brown
Looking Ahead to a New Term
As we look forward to the next four years, I want to thank Ward 21 residents for their continued support and confidence. I am honoured to have been acclaimed as your Councillor and grateful for the opportunity to continue representing our communities. I also want to congratulate all councillors elected and re-elected across Ottawa as we begin a new term.
The start of a new term gives us an opportunity to reflect on the progress made over the past four years while looking at the work that still needs to be done. My priorities remain focused on ensuring rural Ottawa receives its fair share of municipal investment, improving the services and infrastructure residents rely on, and making sure taxpayers receive real value for their hard-earned dollars.
There is plenty of work ahead right here in Ward 21. From addressing road conditions, traffic safety and drainage concerns to supporting local businesses and community organizations, I want to ensure the needs of our villages continue to receive attention at City Hall.
Hearing directly from residents will remain an important part of setting those priorities. Throughout November, my team and I will be joining local community associations for a series of village meetings. These gatherings will give residents an opportunity to raise concerns, share ideas, and tell us what they would like to see addressed over the next four years.
Thank you once again for your continued trust and support. I look forward to another four years of working hard for the residents of Rideau-Jock.
Ward Updates
November is Fall Prevention Month
Falls are one of the most common causes of injury, but many can be prevented. During Fall Prevention Month, Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is encouraging residents to take simple steps to protect themselves and their loved ones.
Children are at risk of falls as they learn to walk, run and play. Parents and caregivers can help by supervising children on raised surfaces, installing safety gates near stairs, keeping furniture away from windows and using window guards.
For older adults, falls can affect independence and quality of life. Keeping walkways clear, securing loose rugs, improving lighting, cleaning up spills and storing everyday items within easy reach can help reduce the risk.
OPH also offers a Staying Independent Checklist to help older adults assess their risk of falling, as well as a free online fall prevention module.
For more information and helpful resources, visit:
New Pay-by-Plate Parking Kiosks Coming to Ottawa
You may soon notice new parking kiosks in some City parking lots and at on-street parking locations across Ottawa. Over the coming months, the city will be replacing existing Pay & Display machines with new Pay-by-Plate kiosks as part of a phased rollout.
How Does It Work?
When paying at a kiosk, drivers will enter their licence plate number instead of displaying a printed receipt on their dashboard. Parking enforcement officers will verify payment electronically using the vehicle's licence plate.
More Ways to Pay
The new kiosks will offer several payment options. Along with coins, drivers can pay using Apple Pay, Google Pay, debit or credit cards (tap only)
The kiosks will also feature larger screens and an easier-to-use layout, making it simpler to complete transactions, check parking rates and understand the parking regulations at each location.
Prefer paying by phone? PayByPhone will continue to be available.
Please note that parking rates and hours of operation will remain unchanged as part of this upgrade.
For more information, visit ottawa.ca/parking.
Seniors Community Grants Now Accepting Applications
The Ontario government is accepting applications for the 2027–28 Seniors Community Grant Program. Community organizations and not-for-profit groups can apply for funding ranging from $1,000 to $25,000 to support projects that improve the quality of life for older adults aged 55 and over.
The grants support initiatives that help seniors live independently, stay safe, remain connected to their communities, reduce social isolation and improve their financial security.
Veterans Stream
The 2027–28 program will also include a dedicated stream for projects that positively impact senior veterans. Projects can be delivered in person, remotely or virtually.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include municipalities, Indigenous governing bodies and incorporated not-for-profit organizations, which can apply for up to $25,000. Individuals representing local unincorporated seniors’ groups may apply for up to $10,000.
Projects must involve older adults and address at least one of the priorities outlined in the program guidelines.
Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted by Thursday, December 17, 2026, at 5 pm EST. Approved projects are expected to begin by summer 2027 and must be completed by March 31, 2028.
For more information, eligibility requirements and application details, visit the Ontario government's Seniors Community Grants page or review the 2027–28 program guidelines. Applicants can also contact a Regional Development Advisor to discuss their project proposals.
Carbon Monoxide Alarms Save Lives
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odourless gas produced when fuels like wood, gas, oil or propane burn incompletely. At high concentrations, it can be deadly, and you cannot detect it without an alarm. In Ward 21, where many homes rely on wood stoves, propane furnaces and attached garages, it is important to make sure your home is protected.
Who Needs an Alarm?
Since January 1, 2026, Ontario's Building Code and Fire Code require working CO alarms in residences with one or more of the following:
An attached garage
A wood-burning fireplace
A fuel-burning appliance, such as a gas stove, gas water heater or gas fireplace
An outdoor furnace that supplies heated air directly into the home
This applies to detached houses, townhouses, apartments and condos.
Where to Install Them in a House
In a detached home or townhouse, CO alarms are required on every level, including basements and finished attics or lofts. You also need one beside each sleeping room, usually in the hallway outside the bedroom.
For example, a two-storey house with an attached garage and bedrooms in the basement and on the second floor would need an alarm on the main floor and in the hallways next to the basement and second-floor bedrooms.
Apartments and Condos
Requirements depend on the source of CO in the building:
Attached parking garage: An alarm is required immediately outside the sleeping rooms of any suite that shares a wall, floor or ceiling with the garage.
Fuel-fired appliance (other than a forced-air furnace): An alarm is required in the service room with the appliance. Suites that share a wall, floor or ceiling with that room also need one outside their sleeping rooms.
Forced-air fuel-burning furnace: An alarm is required in the service room and inside any suite the furnace heats directly, outside the sleeping rooms. Shared hallways heated by the furnace also need alarms, with at least one in each portion of a divided hallway and spacing of no more than 25 metres in an undivided section.
For example, a one-bedroom condo with a gas fireplace in the living room needs an alarm immediately outside the bedroom.
Testing and Replacement
CO alarms do not last forever. Like smoke alarms, they need regular attention:
Test the alarm once a month using the "Test" button.
Replace the batteries once a year.
Replace the entire alarm every seven to 10 years, or as directed by the manufacturer.
If you rent, your landlord is responsible for ensuring working CO alarms are installed. Tenants should test the alarms in their units monthly and report any problems to their landlord right away.
More Information
Ottawa Fire Services has guides for homeowners and landlords showing where CO alarms should be installed. You can find these guides, along with more information about smoke and CO alarms, on the City's Fire Safety, Prevention and Education webpage.
You can also watch a recent OttaTalk episode that follows fire prevention officers through a home inspection.
Take a few minutes to check your CO alarms and make sure your household is protected.
City to Honour Local Veteran Major Gerry Wharton
The City of Ottawa will honour the late Major Gerald “Gerry” Stanley Wharton (Ret’d) by naming a street in his memory through its Commemorative Street Naming for Veterans Program.
Major Wharton served 32 years in the Canadian Armed Forces before beginning a second career as Chief of Ceremonial and Protocol Services with the Department of Public Works. One of his proudest contributions was helping create the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the National War Memorial in Ottawa. He dedicated much of his life to honouring Canadian veterans and remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
In recognition of his service, a street in a new Caivan development in Ward 21 will be named Gerald Wharton Avenue. The street sign will feature the poppy, a lasting symbol of remembrance.
A commemorative ceremony will take place on Thursday, November 5, at 10 a.m. at Ottawa City Hall. The event will also be livestreamed on the City of Ottawa's YouTube channel.
For more information about the City's Commemorative Street Naming for Veterans Program, visit Commemorative Street Naming for Veterans.
Supporting Rural Businesses: Meet Ottawa's Rural Business Liaison
The City of Ottawa is making it easier for rural businesses and entrepreneurs to access the information, programs and services they need to succeed.
Established in 2026 as part of the City's Economic Development Rural Plan, the Rural Business Liaison position serves as a dedicated point of contact for rural business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs, helping them navigate City processes, connect with resources and overcome barriers to starting, operating or growing a business.
Ian Scott, an economic development professional with nearly 20 years of experience at the City of Ottawa, is the City's first Rural Business Liaison.
Since taking on the role, Ian has worked directly with rural businesses on a range of matters, including navigating municipal regulations and approvals, identifying available funding and business support programs, and addressing challenges related to business operations and expansion.
The Rural Business Liaison also supports initiatives that strengthen rural business communities. One early example involved improving connections between recreational cyclists using the Osgoode Link Pathway and businesses in Osgoode Village. By helping coordinate the installation of bicycle racks near Osgoode Main Street, the city has made it easier for cyclists to stop and explore local shops and services.
Another key initiative is the Rural Business Services Showcase, which brings together City staff, economic development organizations and business support agencies to connect rural entrepreneurs with practical advice, resources and services. Following events in Carp and North Gower in 2026, additional showcases are planned for other rural communities in the coming year.
Connect with the Rural Business Liaison
Whether you're starting a new business, looking to expand or simply unsure where to turn for assistance, the Rural Business Liaison is here to help.
Ian holds regular office hours on Tuesdays at the Metcalfe and Osgoode Branches of the Ottawa Public Library, Wednesdays at the Carp Branch of the OPL, Thursdays at the Richmond Branch, and Friday’s at the Cumberland Branch. Meetings can also be arranged at business locations for added convenience.
To learn more or schedule a meeting, contact:
Ian Scott, Rural Business Liaison Email: ian.scott@ottawa.ca Phone: 613-580-2424, ext. 29607
Get Active This Winter with the City of Ottawa!
Looking to stay active this winter? The City of Ottawa offers a wide variety of winter recreation programs and camps for residents of all ages and interests. Whether you enjoy swimming, skating, sports and fitness, arts and culture, or programs for older adults, there is something for everyone!
Key registration dates:
Tuesday, November 3: Winter activities available to preview online.
Tuesday, November 17 at 9:00 pm: Online registration opens for all winter swimming programs.
Thursday, November 19 at 9:00 pm: Online registration opens for all other winter activities.
In-person registration: Available the day after online registration opens, during regular facility business hours.
Residents are encouraged to ensure their recreation accounts are set up and active ahead of registration to make the process as smooth as possible.
Financial assistance is available to eligible residents through the City's Hand in Hand program. Residents who join a program's waiting list will receive an email notification if a space becomes available and will have 36 hours to respond.
The City has also released its 2027 registration schedule for March Break camps, spring and summer programming, and other seasonal activities.
For more information, to browse available activities or to register, visit Register Ottawa.
One-day COVID-19 & Flu Vaccine Clinic
To support rural communities, with limited pharmacy access, Ottawa Public Health is offering a one-day clinic in Richmond! Community members can book an appointment using this link or the QR code included on the attached poster. Walk-ins will also be accepted as capacity allows.
Date: November 14, 2026
Time: 2:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Richmond Arena located at 6095 Perth Street, Ottawa.
Ottawa Public Health recommends that everyone 6 months and older get the annual flu and COVID-19 vaccine. Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are particularly recommended for people at high risk of severe illness.
To learn more about respiratory viruses, including prevention and vaccine availability, visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/RespVirus
Out & About
Shoutout to the Munster Community Association and everyone who contributed during the Halloween Rewind on November 1st!
On top of the food donations gathered at the event, the MCA is donating $3,000 to the local food bank:
$1,500 from surplus funds raised for the Bob Easy Ball Diamond renaming
$1,500 raised by Goalie Academy through their community BBQ, bottle drive, and events
Thank you to the MCA, Goalie Academy, and all the residents who stepped up to support local families!
I attended Watson’s Mill Fall Finale on October 10 at Dickinson Square. It was great to see the community come together to enjoy the fall festivities and vote for their favourite jack-o’-lantern. Thank you to Watson’s Mill for organizing this fun event and bringing residents together in Manotick!
Construction Updates
Road Resurfacing & Construction Impacts
A number of resurfacing, maintenance, and preservation projects are scheduled across Ward 21 in the coming months. Some work may include nighttime construction between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., which may result in temporary noise impacts for nearby residents.
We will continue to share updates as these projects progress, and we appreciate your patience during this work to improve our roads.
Bridge Rehabilitation
Rideau Valley Drive South from Roger Stevens Drive to Lockhead Road East will be closed until Saturday, October 31st for work to rehabilitate a bridge in the south end of Kars Village
Temporary access for pedestrians and cyclists will remain during construction on the bridg
Third Line Road South from Prince of Wales Drive to Roger Stevens Drive will be closed from Monday, June 29th until early December for work to rehabilitate the Stevens Creek Bridge northwest of North Gower Village
Manotick Main Street Project
As part of the construction project to implement a new traffic signal at the intersection of Manotick Main St and Bridgeport Ave (installation scheduled for 2027), guardrail rehabilitation and road shoulder grading are currently ongoing. Minor traffic impacts and off-peak lane closures are expected to last until late November/early December.
Road Renewal Projects
Our office will share 2027 projects closer to the end of Spring 2027
Bankfield Road, from Kilreen Lane to 370 metres west of Prince of Wales Drive
Work completed
Black’s Side Road, from Fernbank Road to Ridingview Crescent
Work Completed
Brophy Drive, from Eagleson Road to Fourth Line Road
Work completed
Community Way, from Fourth Line Road to Relin Way
Work completed
Doctor Leach Drive from Beaverwood Road to Potter Drive
Work completed
Fallowfield Road, gravel road upgrade to asphalt hard surface, from McCaffrey Trail to Dwyer Hill Road
Work completed
Fallowfield Road, from Munster Road to Dwyer Hill Road
Work completed
Farmstead Ridge, crack sealing, from Church Street to Church Street
Work completed
Fernbank Road, from Jinkinson Road to Munster Road
Work completed
Fourth Line Road, from Lockhead Road West to Shellstar Drive
Work completed
Harbison Road, gravel road upgrade to hard asphalt surface, from Proven Line Road to McCordick Road
Work completed
Jinkinson Road, from Fernbank Road to 2.7 kilometres north of Fernbank Road
Work completed
McBean Street, from Perth Street to Strachan Street
Resurfacing of the road has now been scheduled for early summer in 2027 to avoid disruptions during the school year and to avoid a poor-quality final product as the season is quickly coming to an end.
Phelan Road West, slurry seal, from Prince of Wales Drive to Ormond Road
Work completed
Rideau Valley Drive South, crack sealing, Dilworth Road to Roger Stevens Drive
Work completed
Other Construction Projects
➔ Hydro Work Supporting Dwyer Hill Training Facility Expansion
Hydro Ottawa is working on major electrical upgrades in Ward 21 to support the long-term expansion of the Department of National Defence’s Dwyer Hill Training Centre, a project scheduled to continue through 2034.
Phase 1: Hydro Pole and Equipment Installation on Dwyer Hill Road
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Phase 1 has been completed.
Phase 2: Transformer Installation and Infrastructure Upgrade on Garvin Road
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Phase 2 has been completed.
➔ Pole Installation on Franktown Road
Hydro Ottawa continues to install new hydro poles and equipment along Franktown Road. This work is being carried out by Bradley Kelly Construction Ltd. and is ongoing.
For a full list of current and upcoming road work in Ward 21, visit the Ward 21 website. Major construction notices will be shared in future newsletters and community updates.
To explore citywide construction projects, use the City of Ottawa Interactive Construction Map.
Community Events
You can check out the Ward 21 website at any time to see an up-to-date list of upcoming events.
In case you missed this week’s event newsletter, click here: Upcoming Community Events in Ward 21!
Stay in touch!
I want to hear from you! Stay connected and keep informed by:
📱 Following us on social media – Click the icons below to stay updated.
🌐 Visiting our website: www.ward21.ca
📧 Emailing your concerns: ward21@ottawa.ca
📞 Calling our office: 613-580-2491
📅 Want to meet with Councillor Brown at his North Gower office? Email ward21@ottawa.ca to book an appointment.
Looking forward to connecting with you!