Winter Festival – thank you
Over 900 people came out to our Fourth Annual College Ward Winter Festival at Ben Franklin Place last weekend. We had hot chocolate and lots of yummy food options; an awe-inspiring magic show from Luc Leduc, The Duke of Magic; fantastic singing by the Canadian Showtime Chorus; fun facepainting; lots of fun crafting and activities hosted by local organizations, and so much more.
Thank you to the following for their help in making this the best Winter Festival ever!
Scotty’s Diner; The Prep Kitchen; East Side Marios – Bells Corners; Home Depot Canada; Matthew House Ottawa; Nepean Visual Arts Centre; Nepean Museum; OPL Centrepointe Branch; Safer Roads Ottawa; Ottawa Fire Outreach and Sparky the Dog; OC Transpo and OC Owl; Ottawa Wildflower Seed Library; Bells Corners Community Garden; Disc Golf Ottawa; Rideau Valley Conservation Authority; Rain Ready Ottawa; Ottawa Outdoor Gear Library; Canadian Showtime Chorus; Luc Leduc, The Duke of Magic; Youth Ottawa; NROCRC; Endless Ripples; City of Ottawa staff at Ben Franklin Place.
A big thank you to the Rotary Club of Nepean – Kanata for sponsoring the face painting at our event, and thanks to The Smile Factory (Tracy and Barb) for the amazing face painting.
And special thanks to our outstanding volunteers David, Kim, Ben, and members of the Rotary Club of Nepean – Kanata and the Ottawa Youth Council.
Festival d’hiver – merci
Plus de 300 personnes sont venues au quatrième festival d’hiver annuel du quartier Collège à la Place-Ben-Franklin la fin de semaine dernière. Nous avons bu du chocolat chaud, mangé de délicieux plats, assisté à un formidable spectacle de magie de Luc Leduc, le « duc » de la magie, écouté les excellentes chanteuses du Canadian Showtime Chorus, eu du plaisir avec les ateliers de maquillage et de bricolage, participé aux activités organisées par les organisations locales, et bien plus encore.
Merci aux organismes suivants pour leur soutien à l’organisation du meilleur festival d’hiver!
Scotty’s Diner; The Prep Kitchen; East Side Marios – Bells Corners; Home Depot Canada; Matthew House Ottawa; Centre des arts visuels de Nepean; Musée de Nepean; succursale Centrepointe de la BPO; Sécurité des routes Ottawa; équipe de sensibilisation du Service des incendies d’Ottawa et Sparky le chien; OC Transpo et OC le hibou; Grainothèque de fleurs sauvages d’Ottawa; Bells Corners Community Garden; Disc Golf Ottawa; Office de protection de la nature de la vallée Rideau, Parés pour la pluie Ottawa; bibliothèque d’équipement de plein-air d’Ottawa; Canadian Showtime Chorus; Luc Leduc, le « duc » de la magie; Jeunesse Ottawa; Centre de ressources communautaires de Nepean, Rideau et Osgoode; Endless Ripples; et le personnel de la Ville d’Ottawa à la Place-Ben-Franklin.
Un grand merci au club Rotary de Nepean-Kanata pour la commandite de l’activité de maquillage, et merci à la Smile Factory (Tracy et NOM) pour les fantastiques maquillages réalisés.
Et un merci tout spécial à nos merveilleux bénévoles David, Kim et Ben, et aux membres du club Rotary de Nepean-Kanata (Karen, AUTRES).
Your garbage collection day may be changing!
The City of Ottawa has a new contractor picking up curbside collection for garbage, green bin, and leaf and yard waste, starting Monday, March 30th, 2026. Because this contractor has optimized their routes differently, approximately half of households with curbside pickup will see a change to their collection day.
New collection schedules can be found at Ottawa.ca/CollectionCalendar and all households will receive a mailed letter to check their updated collection schedule in late February 2026.
It is important to note that collection frequency remains the same: green bin and leaf and yard waste will continue weekly, and garbage every two weeks.
To help ease the transition to new curbside collection schedules, the City will allow each curbside household to place up to six garbage items at the curb on their new scheduled collection day between March 30th and April 24th, 2026.
We encourage residents to download the free Ottawa Collection Calendar app for Apple and Android devices or sign up for email or phone reminders on the Collection Calendar webpage so that they never miss a collection day again.
Council also approved the transition to a fully digital curbside collection calendar in September 2025. Beginning in 2027, the City will no longer mail collection calendars to every household. Residents will continue to be able to access collection information through the following options:
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Ottawa.ca/CollectionCalendar for email or phone reminders
- Ottawa Collection Calendar mobile app for Android and iOS
- Print-at-home option
- Paper calendars by request for residents without digital access
Le jour de collecte des déchets pourrait changer!
La Ville d’Ottawa fait affaire avec un nouveau sous-traitant pour la collecte en bordure de rue des déchets, du bac vert, des feuilles et des résidus de jardinage. Ce changement entrera en vigueur le lundi 30 mars 2026. Puisque les itinéraires de ce sous-traitant sont différents, le jour de collecte d’environ la moitié des ménages bénéficiant de la collecte en bordure de rue changera.
Le nouveau calendrier de la collecte est affiché sur la page. En outre, vers la fin du mois de février 2026, tous les ménages recevront par la poste une lettre détaillant le nouveau calendrier de la collecte.
Il est important de noter que la fréquence de collecte ne change pas. Le bac vert, les feuilles et les résidus de jardinage sont ramassés toutes les semaines, et les déchets, toutes les deux semaines.
Pour faciliter la transition, la Ville permettra à chaque ménage touché de déposer jusqu’à six articles en bordure lors des jours de collecte prévus selon le nouveau calendrier entre le 30 mars et le 24 avril 2026.
Nous encourageons les résidentes et résidents à télécharger gratuitement l’application Calendrier collecte d’Ottawa sur leur appareil Apple ou Android, ou à s’inscrire sur la page Web du calendrier de la collecte pour recevoir des rappels par courriel ou téléphone afin de ne plus jamais manquer un jour de collecte.
En septembre 2025, le Conseil a également approuvé la transition vers un calendrier de la collecte en bordure de rue entièrement numérique. À partir de 2027, la Ville n’enverra plus aux ménages le calendrier de la collecte par la poste. Les résidentes et résidents pourront continuer à obtenir de l’information sur la collecte des déchets par les moyens suivants :
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ottawa.ca/calendrierdelacollecte pour recevoir des rappels par courriel ou téléphone;
- Application mobile Calendrier collecte d’Ottawa pour Android et iOS;
- Impression du calendrier à domicile;
- Calendrier imprimé (sur demande pour les personnes sans accès à Internet).
Algonquin College proposed program cuts
Earlier this month, Algonquin College announced that they were considering cutting 30 important programs. This would be the second round of program cuts in a year.
Many of the programs being considered for elimination are ones that the City of Ottawa often hires from. That includes paralegals, paramedics, museum workers, and many others. And the culinary program supplies workers to most restaurants and hotels across the City.
Clearly, the cuts would be deeply felt. So I moved a motion for the City to compile information about how the cuts might effect both the City and the business economy and provide that to the College Board of Directors and the Minister of Colleges and Universities.
Thankfully, the Province announced that they would provide some increased funding to Ontario colleges and Algonquin was able to postpone cutting these important programs.
That said, I continue to have concerns that our post-secondary institutions continue to be underfunded; and that changes to OSAP and tuition increases will unfairly impact low income students, putting a further burden on our economy.
If you agree that Algonquin College is important to our city, please write to your MPP.
Proposition d’abolition de programmes du Collège Algonquin
Plus tôt ce mois-ci, le Collège Algonquin a annoncé qu’il envisageait d’abolir 30 programmes importants. Il s’agirait de la deuxième vague d’abolitions en un an.
La Ville d’Ottawa engage souvent des personnes diplômées de ces programmes, comme des parajuristes, des paramédics, des travailleuses et travailleurs en musée et bien d’autres. Et le programme de formation en cuisine forme les employées et employés de la plupart des restaurants et hôtels d’Ottawa.
Il n’y a aucun doute que de telles mesures se feraient profondément ressentir. J’ai donc présenté une motion demandant au personnel municipal de compiler les informations sur les conséquences de ces abolitions sur la Ville et les entreprises, et de les transmettre au conseil d’administration du Collège et au ministre des Collèges et Universités.
Heureusement, le gouvernement provincial a annoncé une augmentation du financement versé aux collèges de l’Ontario, ce qui a permis au Collège Algonquin de repousser l’abolition de ces programmes importants.
Cela étant dit, je continue de m’inquiéter du sous-financement de nos établissements d’enseignement postsecondaire, ainsi que des changements au Régime d’aide financière aux étudiantes et étudiants de l’Ontario et de l’augmentation des droits de scolarité qui désavantageront les étudiants et étudiants à faible revenu, ce qui fera peser un fardeau supplémentaire sur notre économie.
Si, comme moi, vous croyez que le Collège Algonquin est important pour Ottawa, merci d’écrire à votre députée ou député.
2625 Draper Ave
Earlier this month, I learned from a resident that the former Grant Alternative School on 2625 Draper Ave, which has been closed since 2018, had been put up for sale via a private real estate firm.
Last week, I brought a motion to Planning Committee that asked staff to review their approach to buying disused school board properties. Here’s some of what I said at Committee:
The closing of a school in any neighborhood is a very impactful, deeply impactful occurrence.
Neighbors are both saddened by the loss of the school that they might have gone to or their family members might have gone to, but they also become quickly curious for what's going to come to the school site, which is often significant in size.
Over a year ago, I brought community members together with city staff to discuss a potential skills training center and childcare project on one of these sites.
And at that time, as far as my discussions went with staff, the site was still in play. I later learned that the disposal policies had changed in 2023 and a school board may be allowed to go straight to private market.
No longer will we be able to offer the same reassurance to our communities that municipalities have a first right of refusal on school sites.
There had been no formal response or notification by staff in 2023 to committee or council of this change.
I do understand also that city staff have to assess whether or not the purchase of a property is the right thing to do and whether or not we have a program with which to purchase it, but this process can't be ad hoc or invisible or implied.
As a council and as a corporation, we've been talking a lot about the need to be more agile. And here is an example of, I believe, where we needed better agility and responsiveness.
School closures are a lightning rod for the community and we need to know that the city is constantly refreshing its land use needs, especially in older established neighborhoods for which there is no new land for things like recreational facilities, sports fields, significant dense housing, affordable housing, other priorities that are important for neighbors.
These sites are precious.
We need to be fully transparent on how and when the city will fight for community interests for these parcels.
And so when the city finally did tell me that they were already not interested in the Draper property, it turned out that the decision they were referencing was made eight years ago, pre-COVID, under a different city councilor and a totally different reality.
But the Planning Act has changed. Our zoning bylaw has been updated and our growth projections emphasize today that we can't just plan for today.
We have to plan long-term. And over the next several decades, we will have more seniors and more school-aged children and youth.
So selling ourselves short now on these parcels is frightening to me.
Our own official plan recognizes that schools beyond their educational purpose also serve to provide community infrastructure and resources for a neighborhood and important opportunities to support climate resiliency and contribute to healthy and inclusive communities.
In the case of school sites, the city needs to tighten up and say that we're doing everything we can to put the city's interests first as nimbly as we are able.
2675, avenue Draper
Plus tôt ce mois-ci, j’ai appris que l’ancienne Grant Alternative School située au 2625, avenue Draper et fermée depuis 2018, a été mise en vente par l’entremise d’une société immobilière privée.
La semaine dernière, j’ai présenté une motion au Comité de l’urbanisme demandant au personnel de revoir son approche pour l’acquisition de propriétés abandonnées de conseils scolaires. Voici un résumé de ce que j’ai dit lors de la réunion du Comité :
La fermeture d’une école est événement aux conséquences très importantes, qui se fait fortement ressentir pour n’importe quel quartier.
En plus d’être attristés par la perte d’une école qu’ils ont peut-être déjà fréquentée ou que les membres de leur famille auraient pu fréquenter, les gens sont aussi curieux de savoir ce qu’il adviendra du site, qui est souvent assez grand.
Il y a plus d’un an, j’ai rassemblé des gens du quartier et le personnel municipal pour discuter de la possibilité d’aménager un centre de formation professionnelle et une garderie sur l’un de ces sites.
À ce moment, selon ce que j’avais compris de mes discussions avec le personnel, le site était toujours disponible. Plus tard, j’ai appris que les politiques d’aliénation avaient changé en 2023 et que les conseils scolaires pouvaient aller directement sur le marché privé.
Désormais, nous ne pouvons plus assurer aux résidentes et résidents que les municipalités ont un droit de préemption pour les sites scolaires.
Le personnel n’a envoyé aucune communication officielle aux comités ou au Conseil concernant ce changement en 2023.
Je comprends également que le personnel municipal doit évaluer si l’acquisition d’une propriété est la bonne chose à faire et si nous disposons d’un programme qui permet une telle acquisition, mais ce processus doit être cohérent, transparent et explicite.
Le Conseil et la Ville, en tant que personne juridique, parlent souvent de la nécessité d’être plus agile. Cette situation est un exemple, à mon avis, où notre manque d’agilité et de souplesse nous a coûté cher.
Les fermetures d’écoles attirent l’attention des gens, et nous devons avoir l’assurance que la Ville met continuellement à jour ses besoins d’utilisation du sol, surtout dans le cas de vieux quartiers où il n’y plus de nouveaux terrains pour la construction d’installations récréatives, de terrains de sport, de logements denses, de logements abordables et la réalisation d’autres projets prioritaires pour les résidentes et résidents.
Ces sites sont précieux.
Il faut que la population soit entièrement au fait de ce que fait la Ville pour défendre ses intérêts relativement à ces parcelles.
Quand le personnel m’a enfin dit que la propriété sur l’avenue Draper n’intéressait pas la Ville, il s’est avéré que la décision à laquelle il faisait référence avait été prise il y a huit ans, avant la pandémie, alors qu’un autre conseiller municipal était en poste et la situation, complètement différente.
Mais la Loi sur l’aménagement du territoire a changé. Le Règlement de zonage a été mis à jour et, aujourd’hui, nos projections de croissance mettent en évidence qu’il ne suffit plus de planifier à court terme.
Il faut planifier à long terme. Et dans les prochaines décennies, nous aurons plus d’aînées et aînés, plus d’enfants d’âge scolaire et plus de jeunes.
C’est pourquoi ce manque de vision concernant ces parcelles me fait peur.
Même le Plan officiel reconnaît l’importance des écoles au-delà de leur vocation éducationnelle. Elles servent d’infrastructures et de ressources pour les quartiers, et peuvent jouer un rôle important dans l’amélioration de la résilience climatique et ainsi que dans le bien-être et l’inclusivité des collectivités.
Dans le cas des sites d’écoles, la Ville doit vite mieux s’organiser et indiquer qu’elle fait tout ce qu’elle peut pour prioriser ses intérêts.
New Zoning By-Law
I am sure you are wondering when I will stop including info about the new Zoning By-Law in my newsletter, but I wanted to share some quick updates. The New Zoning-By-Law was passed by Council on January 28th and we expect any unappealed sections to come into effect in March or so after provincial approval. The appealed sections will come into effect once those are resolved at the Ontario Land Tribunal.
Nouveau Règlement de zonage
Je suis sûre que vous vous demandez quand je vais arrêter de parler du nouveau Règlement de zonage dans mon bulletin d’information, mais je voulais vous transmettre quelques petites nouvelles. Le nouveau Règlement de zonage a été adopté par le Conseil le 28 janvier. Nous prévoyons que les articles restés sans appel entreront en vigueur en mars, après l’approbation du gouvernement provincial. Les autres articles entreront en vigueur lorsque le Tribunal ontarien de l’aménagement du territoire aura rendu sa décision.
Drainage and Stormwater
I have heard from many neighbours about how they have been affected over the years by infill projects, driveway alterations, or site alterations. Many of you have shared your concerns with me about additional housing in some of our older neighbourhoods, like City View and Crestview when we are already facing problems with ponding water or more.
I have listened to your concerns about rear yard parking as it relates to drainage. Before the new Zoning By-Law, there was little control on how properties managed drainage with additional hard surfacing. Going forward, any new development, including adding rear-yard parking MUST manage stormwater on-site.
To undertake any permitted work, whether it is a small infill, a driveway addition, or a large subdivision, applicants must demonstrate that it will not result in any adverse effects to stormwater infrastructure, nor public or private properties. You can find out more about this on the City's website.
Drainage et eaux pluviales
Beaucoup de résidentes et résidents m’ont fait part des désagréments qu’ils ont subis au fil des années en raison des projets d’aménagement intercalaire ou des modifications d’entrées de cour ou de sites. Vous êtes plusieurs à me faire de votre mécontentement concernant la construction de logements dans les vieux quartiers, comme City View et Crestview, alors que nous sommes déjà aux prises avec des problèmes d’accumulation d’eau, entre autres.
J’ai pris en note vos commentaires concernant le drainage des stationnements de cour arrière. Avant le nouveau Règlement de zonage, la gestion du drainage sur les propriétés avec revêtement dur était peu réglementée. Dorénavant, les nouveaux projets d’aménagement, y compris les stationnements de cour arrière, DOIVENT tenir compte de la gestion des eaux pluviales du site.
Pour entreprendre des travaux permis, qu’il s’agisse d’un petit aménagement intercalaire, de l’ajout d’une entrée de cour, ou d’un grand lotissement, les requérants doivent démontrer que le projet en question n’aura aucune conséquence négative sur l’infrastructure de gestion des eaux pluviales ou les propriétés publiques et privées. Vous trouverez plus de renseignements à ce sujet ici (en anglais seulement).
Ditches
Many streets and neighbourhoods in College Ward are on a ditch drainage system. Ditches convey water during storm events and spring melts and are part of the larger stormwater system. We know that they have been neglected over the years; I have been fighting for better management as your Councillor and as a member of the City’s Ditch Sponsors Group.
The City of Ottawa has now hired a Ditch Coordinator, recognizing the need for better coordination, communication and overall support of our ditch maintenance program. They will be working with partners across City Departments to strengthen the City’s approach to ditch maintenance through improved coordination, clarified roles and responsibilities, and more timely resolution of requests for service. They will also be working on improving communications with property owners and actively engaging Councillors to incorporate local priorities and feedback into ditch maintenance planning.
Fossés
De nombreuses rues et de nombreux secteurs du quartier Collège bénéficient d’un système de drainage par fossé. Les fossés font circuler l’eau pendant les tempêtes et lors de la fonte printanière, et font partie du système de gestion des eaux pluviales. Nous savons qu’ils sont négligés depuis longtemps. À titre de conseillère et de membre du Groupe des conseillers parrains sur l’entretien des fossés, je travaille fort pour assurer une meilleure gestion de nos fossés.
La Ville d’Ottawa, consciente de la nécessité d’améliorer la coordination, la communication et le soutien concernant son programme d’entretien des fossés, a engagé une personne responsable de la coordination. Cette personne collaborera avec des partenaires des directions générales de la Ville pour optimiser l’approche municipale pour ce qui est l’entretien des fossés par l’amélioration de la coordination, la clarification des rôles et des responsabilités, et la résolution plus rapide des demandes de service. Elle verra également à améliorer la communication avec les propriétaires et à mobiliser activement les conseillères et conseillers en vue d’intégrer les priorités locales et les commentaires des résidentes et résidents au plan d’entretien des fossés.
Rain Ready Ottawa
Your input is needed to help design a new pilot rebate stream for the Rain Ready Ottawa Multi-Unit Residential Building (MURB) Rebate. If you are a resident, board member, or property manager of a low-rise, multi-unit condominium, coop, rental, or affordable housing, The City wants to hear from you.
Rain Ready Ottawa is currently designing a new stream to help support more retrofit projects to help improve the health of Ottawa’s waterways and build climate resiliency.
Since launching in 2021, Rain Ready Ottawa has successfully led to the installation of hundreds of residential stormwater management projects like rain gardens, permeable pavement and soakaway pits and now we are hoping to help residents of larger residential complexes achieve the same results.
This is your opportunity to tell us how the City can best support you and your building’s community in becoming more ‘rain ready’ in the survey.
Your responses will be considered as a part of the development of the new rebate that will be presented to Council in spring 2026.
Parés pour la pluie Ottawa
Nous avons besoin de vos commentaires afin de concevoir un nouveau volet pilote pour la remise destinée aux immeubles résidentiels à logements multiples (IRLM) de Parés pour la pluie Ottawa. Si vous êtes résidente ou résident, membre du conseil d’administration ou gestionnaire immobilier d’un immeuble de faible hauteur, d’une copropriété à logements multiples, d’une coopérative, d’un logement locatif ou d’un logement abordable, la Ville veut connaître votre avis.
L’équipe de Parés pour la pluie Ottawa élabore actuellement un nouveau programme visant à financer davantage de projets de rénovation afin d’améliorer la santé des cours d’eau d’Ottawa et de renforcer la résilience climatique.
Depuis son lancement en 2021, le programme Parés pour la pluie Ottawa a permis de réaliser des centaines de projets de gestion des eaux pluviales en secteur résidentiel, tels que des jardins de pluie, des revêtements perméables et des puits d’infiltration. Nous espérons maintenant aider les résidentes et résidents de grands complexes résidentiels à obtenir les mêmes résultats.
C’est votre chance de nous faire part de la manière dont la Ville peut vous aider, vous et les de gens votre immeuble, à être « parés pour la pluie ». Vous n’avez qu’à répondre au sondage.
Vos réponses seront prises en compte dans l’élaboration du nouveau programme de remise qui sera présenté au Conseil au printemps 2026.
Baseline-Iris Multi-Use Pathway Clearing
Earlier this season I had several residents flag to me that the pathway from Iris St to the Baseline Station layup area was not being cleared of snow this year.
After following up with City staff, the mystery was ultimately solved, and City staff have confirmed that this pathway will be maintained for the remainder of the winter season. Since this confirmation a few more folks let me know that some sections of snow clearing were missed here, and I continue to follow-up with staff as we go.
Approximately half of the area in question belongs to the NCC, which makes confirming long term ownership and maintenance responsibilities more complex, however I am hopeful we will have a long-term solution! If you notice any issues with snow clearing or salting here, please report to 3-1-1 so the request is in queue right away for staff to action.
Thank you again to the residents who flagged this to me, and to City staff for their ongoing dedication to keeping our transportation network safe and accessible.
Déneigement du sentier polyvalent entre la rue Iris et la station Baseline
Plus tôt cet hiver, plusieurs résidentes et résidents m’ont signalé que le sentier entre la rue Iris et la zone d’arrêt de la station Baseline n’était pas déneigé cette année.
J’ai communiqué avec le personnel municipal et nous avons résolu le mystère; le personnel m’a confirmé que le sentier sera déneigé pour le reste de l’hiver. Depuis cette confirmation, quelques personnes m’ont encore dit que certaines portions n’étaient pas déneigées; je continue donc de signaler ces problèmes au personnel au fur et à mesure.
Environ la moitié du secteur en question appartient à la Commission de la capitale nationale. Il est donc difficile de confirmer à qui incombent les responsabilités en matière de propriété et d’entretien à long terme. Cela étant dit, j’ai bon espoir que nous trouverons une solution durable! Si vous remarquez un problème de déneigement ou d’épandage de sel sur le sentier, veuillez le signaler au 3-1-1 pour que le personnel puisse rapidement résoudre la situation.
Merci encore aux résidentes et résidents qui m’ont fait part du problème, et au personnel municipal pour son dévouement continu envers la sécurité et l’accessibilité de notre réseau de transport.
Free tax clinics
The Nepean, Rideau Osgoode Community Resource Centre (NROCRC) is offering a free tax clinic for eligible households in their catchment area. If you’re unsure which Community Resource Centre catchment you are in, visit their website for details and eligibility.
Christ Church Bells Corners (CCBC) is also offering Free Tax Clinics beginning March 2nd and ending April 29th:
Mondays 1-3:30pm
Wednesdays 4-6:30pm
Fridays 1-3:30pm
Saturdays 10am to 3:30pm
**No Clinics on April 3 and April 4.
CCBC Criteria: Modest income and simple returns 2025 basic modest income - $55,000 for couples, $40,000 for singles. Only individual returns, NO business, investment or rental income.
Clinique d’impôts gratuite
Le Centre de ressources communautaires de Nepean, Rideau et Osgoode offre une clinique d’impôts gratuite aux ménages admissibles dans leur zone de représentation. Si vous ne savez pas quel est votre centre de ressources communautaires, consultez le lien suivant pour accéder à la carte des services d’Ottawa : Trouvez votre centre de ressources communautaires – Coalition des centres de ressources et de santé communautaires d’Ottawa. Consultez l’affiche du Centre pour connaître les détails et les critères d’admissibilité!
Want a free tree for your yard?
Ottawa residents can apply for a free tree to pick up and plant themselves through the Plant Your Place! City-Wide Tree Distribution stream.
✔ Multiple species to choose from
✔ First come, first served
✔ Open to residents city-wide (eligibility criteria apply)
Registration opens March 2.
This project was carried out with funds from the Government of Canada to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.
Vous voulez un arbre gratuit chez vous?
Les personnes résidant à Ottawa peuvent demander un arbre gratuit, venir le chercher et le planter elles-mêmes, dans le cadre de la distribution d’arbres dans toute la ville du programme Un arbre chez vous!
✔ Choisissez parmi plusieurs espèces.
✔ Premier arrivé, premier servi.
✔ Ouvert à toutes les personnes résidant à Ottawa (des critères d’admissibilité s’appliquent).
Inscrivez-vous dès le 2 mars.
Ce projet a été réalisé grâce au soutien financier du gouvernement du Canada à la Fédération canadienne des municipalités.
Ottawa Public Library upcoming events and programs
Nepean Centrepointe Programs – March 2026
We are located at 101 Centrepointe Drive. Hours of operation are listed online: NEPEAN CENTREPOINTE OPL / NEPEAN CENTREPOINTE BPO. For information about obtaining a library card, visit a branch or go online at LIBRARY CARD / CARTE DE BIBLIOTHÈQUE. For more information about OPL, visit BIBLIOOTTAWALIBRARY.CA/EN / BIBLIOOTTAWALIBRARY.CA/FR or phone 613-580-2940.
Programs at our branch are listed below and more can be found at: NEPEAN CENTREPOINTE – FIND A PROGRAM / NEPEAN CENTREPOINTE – TROUVER UN PROGRAMME. Online virtual programs, when available, are offered by OPL systemwide at ONLINE - FIND A PROGRAM / EN LIGNE - TROUVER UN PROGRAMME. OPL also offers 1-on-1 tutorials on subjects including computers, eBooks, research, & online resources. To book a tutorial, phone 613-580-2940 or visit the following link: LIBRARY TUTORIAL 1:1 / BIBLIO TÊTE-À-TÊTE.
Children’s programs (ages 0-12)
Programs are drop-in unless otherwise stated.
Starry Night Storytime
Monday, March 2 & 30 -- 6:30 – 7:00 pm
Stories, rhymes and songs for toddlers and a parent or caregiver.
Family Storytimes
Monday, March 2, 16 & 30 -- 10:30 – 11:00 am Saturday, March 21 – 10:30-11:00 am Sunday, March 8 & 29 -- 10:30 – 11:00 am
Stories, rhymes and songs for children, parents and caregivers.
Toddlertime/Stay & Play
Tuesday, March 3 & 31 -- 10:30 – 11:30 am
Wednesday, March 4 -- 10:30 – 11:30 am
Stories, rhymes and songs for toddlers and a parent or caregiver.
Babytime/Stay & Play
Thursday, March 5 & 19 -- 10:30 – 11:30 am
Stories, rhymes and songs for babies and a parent or caregiver.
Paper Bag Princess Day
Saturday, March 7, 10:30 – 11:30 am
Celebrate Robert Munsch's The Paper Bag Princess with stories, crafts, and fun activities for kids of all ages.
Spanish-English Storytime / Hora de Cuentos; bilingüe en español e inglés
Saturday, March 14, 10:30 – 11:00 am
Stories, rhymes and songs for children of all ages and a parent or caregiver. // Cuentos, rimas y canciones para niños de todas las edades, acompañados de un padre o guardian.
Chess @ Centrepointe (Ages 7-12)
Saturdays -- 1:30 – 3:00 pm
For children 7-12, interested in learning to play chess and finding out more about the game. Teen volunteers will be on hand to help those who are learning!
MARCH BREAK PROGRAMMING
Taking a "Peep" at the Ottawa Valley Wild Bird Care Centre
Monday, March 16, 2:00 – 3:00 pm | Registration Required
Join Patty McLaughlin from the Ottawa Valley Wild Bird Care Centre for a fun and exciting presentation. Participants will explore the amazing world of birds in a truly hands-on way and will have the exciting opportunity to meet the Centre's new ambassador bird!
There will be a chance to hold real wings, examine different types of feathers, and investigate bird beaks and feet to discover how these special tools help birds survive in their environments. Patty will share simple tips and easy actions families can take to help protect our feathered friends in their own backyards. Family program for ages 4+
At the Game Table
Tuesday, March 17, 10:30 – 12:00 pm
Come test your skills at the Game Table! This program features a variety of hands‑on mini‑challenges such as ping‑pong ball tosses, cup‑stacking races, and other fast, friendly competitions. Try one activity or try them all—there’s something fun for every age and ability.
Library staff will be available to explain the challenges, cheer you on, and help keep the fun rolling. Drop in and see how high you can stack, bounce, or balance!
Create-a-Creature (Ages 7-12)
Tuesday, March 17, 2:00 – 3:00 pm | Registration Required
Design your own fluffy, feathered or furless friend while exploring the art of diamond painting. Participants will create Curious Creatures stickers to decorate their favorite things. All materials provided.
STEM Club (Ages 7-12)
Tuesday, March 17, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Join us for an exciting and hands-on Afternoon STEM Club designed especially for kids! Each session will have interactive activities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. From building simple machines and coding basic games. Perfect for kids who love to explore, invent, and discover!
Animal Architects (Ages 7-12)
Wednesday, March 18, 10:30 – 11:30 am | Registration Required
Experiment with structures created by humans that were inspired by the incredible builders of the natural world. Marvel at the ingenuity and skill of animals that engineers and architects, worldwide, have copied and used to build our structurally sound and durable bridges, high-rises and dwellings. You will have your own opportunity to build and create your own wacky design using materials supplied by the library.
You’re Bugging Me! (Ages 10–12)
Wednesday, March 18, 2:00 – 3:00 pm | Registration Required
Get ready to crawl into the curious world of insects! In this hands-on program, participants will explore some of the coolest (and creepiest) bugs found in nature. Then, inspired by what they’ve learned, kids will design and sculpt their very own Plasticine beetle—complete with colorful details, unique features, and big bug personality. Perfect for young creators who love science, art, or anything a little bit buggy!
Atelier de percussion avec Fana Soro
Thursday, March 19, 2:00 – 3:00 pm | Registration Required
Le maître percussionniste Fana Soro présente aux participants les techniques traditionnelles du jeu du djembé, le tambour le plus populaire de l’Ouest de l’Afrique. Les participants apprendront les techniques de base des percussions liées aux danses et aux chansons de la culture Sénoufo. Pour les 7 à 12 ans. Inscription requise. La Bibliothèque publique d’Ottawa s’engage à rendre tous ses programmes accessibles à toutes et à tous. Si vous avez besoin d’aide pour vous inscrire à ce programme ou de mesures d’adaptation pour y participer, communiquez avec nous.
March Break Friday Morning Play Day
Friday, March 20, 10:30 – 12:00 pm
Board games, building blocks, Duplo, LEGO bricks, and...as many books as you want to read! Drop-in!
March Break Friday Afternoon Movie
Friday, March 20, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Popcorn will be provided. Covered drinks are welcome. Family program. Drop-in.
Teen programs (ages 13-18)
Programs are drop-in unless otherwise stated.
Teen Takeover
Friday, March 13, 6:00 – 9:00 pm | Registration Required
Celebrate the beginning of March Break and hang out at the library after hours! There will be snacks, games, karaoke, craft projects, and more. This event is organized by the Nepean Centrepointe branch's Teen Advisory Group.
Time Management for Teens
Monday, March 16, 3:30 – 4:30 | Registration Required
Do you feel stressed when you have a deadline approaching? Participants will have the opportunity to learn about time management strategies to balance social activities, academic deadlines and personal commitments. They will be introduced to the Eisenhower decision matrix to categorize tasks into four quadrants including; do, decide, delete and delegate. Participants will discover time management apps such as hive, rescue time, brain focus, trello and more. Presented by the YESP in English. Ages 15-18 (Grades 10-12).
Wellness and Mental Health for Teens
Tuesday, March 17,1:30 – 2:30 pm | Registration Required
Participants will have the opportunity to become aware and make choices that lead to optimal holistic health. Engage in various activities to learn about different types of wellness including: emotional, environmental, physical, intellectual, spiritual, financial, social and occupational. Presented by the Youth Education Success Program (YESP) in English. Ages 15-18 (Grades 10-12).
Animate Anything!
Tuesday, March 17, 3:00 – 4:30 pm | Registration Required
Join us for a workshop where participants learn the basics of stop-motion animation using clay, paper, toys, or found objects, one frame at a time! Each person creates a mini movie to share. Presented by the Stop Mo Co in English.
Bad Art Afternoon
Thursday, March 19, 3:00 - 4:30 pm
Come hang out at the library, let your creativity fly, and make the worst piece of art you can. At the end, we will vote on a winner who will be awarded a small trophy created by the group. All supplies will be provided and no artistic skills necessary. Ages 13-18 (Grades 8-12).
Adult Programs
Programs are drop-in unless otherwise stated.
Employment Support
Mondays, 10:00 – 12:00 pm
Are you looking for work? Unemployed or underemployed? Drop-in to meet one-on-one with an Employment Counsellor from the Pinecrest-Queensway Employment Services team.
English Conversation Group
Tuesdays, 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Wednesdays, 10:30 – 11:30 am
Thursdays 10:30 – 11:30 am
Do you need a casual, friendly environment where you can practice your English-speaking skills? Look no further than the English Conversation Group! Receive guidance from our experienced conversation group leaders, meet new people, and gain confidence in your English speaking.
Newcomer Support Drop-in
Monday, March 2, 16 & 30, 3:00 – 5:00 pm
New to Canada? Looking for support with school, work, or your social life? Drop-in to meet with a settlement youth outreach worker from Jewish Family Services. This drop-in program is intended for youth, but all are welcome.
Effective Tax Strategies
Monday, March 2, 6:30 – 8:00 pm | Registration Required
Better understand Canada’s tax system and minimize the amount of tax paid. Learn how to; reduce income subject to tax, maximize deductions and use all allowable tax credits. Presented by the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada.
Baking Cookbook Book Club
Thursday, March 5, 6:30 – 7:45 pm | Registration Required
Whether you're new to baking or well-seasoned, this new book club is the perfect place to meet fellow bakers, try new recipes and share both the successes and failures of your bakes. March book: Not Too Sweet by Jessica Seinfeld
Miniature Gaming
Sunday, March 8, 11:00 – 2:00 pm
Interested in miniature gaming with toy soldiers? Join in to play science fiction, high fantasy and historical games. Presented by the Ottawa Miniatures Gamers. Drop-in program for teens and adults ages 12 and up. All materials will be supplied.
Game On! Board Games & Puzzles for Adults
Monday, March 9 & 23, 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Unwind and connect with others in a friendly, welcoming space. Play one of the available board games and puzzles or bring games you want played!
Genealogy Drop-In
Tuesday, March 10 & 24, 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Want to learn more about your family history or getting stuck working on your family tree? Drop-in to work on your family tree, share research strategies, and discover what resources are available for your research. Specialists from the Ontario Genealogical Society Ottawa Branch and the Ottawa Public Library will answer questions and help you get the most from library resources.
Club de lecture
Wednesday, March 11, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Participez à des rencontres sociales pour discuter d’une grande variété de livres sélectionnés par les membres du club de lecture. Cette activité est ouverte à tous. Les personnes inscrites ont la responsabilité d’obtenir un exemplaire du livre à lire ou à écouter. 11 mars: Les Enfants du large par Virginia Tangvald
Nepean Centrepointe Book Club
Thursday, March 12, 1:30 - 3:00 pm
Come meet to enjoy and discuss a wide variety of books selected by book club members. All are welcome! March Book: The Giver of the Stars by Jojo Moyes
Science Fiction Fantasy Book Club
Thursday, March 19, 7:00 – 8:30pm
Join us to discuss books from the science fiction and fantasy genres each month. All are welcome! March Book: Annie Bot by Sierra Greer
Indie Author Group
Monday, March 23, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Are you a writer or author looking to learn more about the indie publishing process? Join author N.G. Avant for this monthly program discussing key aspects of the indie publishing process. This will include topics such as beta reading, getting book reviews, navigating platforms like Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) or Draft to Digital, building an author brand, and creating engaging social media content.
Happily Ever After Book Club
Thursday, March 26, 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
If you are a love story lover, join us each month for discussions on romance novels in a relaxed atmosphere! From enemies-to-lovers to second chance romance to secret billionaires (maybe with some forced proximity thrown in!), come meet fellow happily-ever-after enthusiasts as we chat about the pre-selected book. March Book: My Favourite Mistake by Marian Keyes
How to Take Better Vacation Photos
Saturday, March 28, 2:00 – 4:00 pm | Registration Required
Learn how to more effectively tell the story of your vacations through pictures. Regardless of what kind of camera you use (cell phone, tablet, DSLR, etc.), Lynda Buske from the Ottawa PC Users' Group and the Orleans Photo Club will show how to use light, foreground, people, and framing. Learn the best ways to shoot seaside, sunrise/sunset and more to create descriptive photos that needs no captioning.
Visit BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca or call 613-580-2940 for the most up-to-date information about upcoming programs!
Centennial branch in Bells Corners:
Children's programs at Centennial
Babytime
Stories, songs, & rhymes for babies. 30 minutes of storytime followed by 30 minutes of playtime.
Tuesdays, March 3 and 31, 10:30-11:30am
Ages 0-18 months
Drop-in
Family Storytime
Stories, songs, & rhymes for children of all ages. 30 minutes of storytime followed by 30 minutes of playtime.
Wednesday, March 4, 10:30-11:30am
Drop-in
Toddlertime
Stories, songs, & rhymes for toddlers. 30 minutes of storytime followed by 30 minutes of playtime.
Thursday, March 5, 10:30-11:30am
Ages 19-35 months
Drop-in
Saturday Family Storytime
Stories, songs, & rhymes for children of all ages.
Saturday, March 7, 10:30-11:00am
Drop-in
Dungeons & Dragons
Get ready for a storytelling adventure that will test the limits of your imagination. We are playing Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition.
Saturday, March 14, 2:00-4:00pm
Ages 10-12; if your child is outside of the recommended age range but loves the topic, please speak with branch staff.
Pet Explorers
Celebrate the animal friends that live among us. We will be playing games and learning about animals with jobs.
Tuesday, March 17, 10:30-11:30am
Ages 7-9
Get Wild
Roar, hoot, and hop! Unleash your inner animal. We will be doing various movement games and activities with stuffed animals. Bring your energy and imagination!
Tuesday, March 17, 2:00-3:00pm
Ages 4-6
Family Storytime and Craft
Join us for stories, rhymes, and songs for children of all ages, as well as a special march break craft! All children welcome with a parent or caregiver.
Wednesday, March 18, 10:30-11:30am
You're Bugging Me!
Embrace the besties, beware of the pesties! We will be reading stories, playing games, and making crafts.
Thursday, March 19, 10:30-11:30am
Ages 4-6
Drawn to Nature
Be inspired by the beauty of nature and create! We will be making buttons with art supplies and paper collage.
Thursday, March 19, 2:00-3:00pm
Ages 7-12
LEGO Block Party
Let’s build together! Join library staff for a building challenge or indulge your creativity with a free build.
Friday, March 20, 2:00-4:00pm
Family program
Drop-in
YOU-Nique show with Zoo Crew
Join us for a story-based YOU-Nique presentation presented by Zoo Crew! Participants will engage in problem-solving activities while being hands-on with a variety of mammals, reptiles, and a feathered friend. The presentation focuses on themes of belonging and connecting by highlighting each animal's unique adaptation and how it makes them so special.
Saturday, March 21, 10:30-11:30am
Ages 4+
Adult programs at Centennial
Crafternoon
Do you knit, crochet, or do handwork? Come in for an afternoon of crafting. Bring any project you are working on.
Tuesdays, 2:00-4:00pm
Drop-in
Group Tech Help Session
Have questions about your own device, i.e.: tablet, phone, or laptop? Need help with e-books or other online library resources? Centennial branch staff will be available to assist (no technology repairs or online banking/shopping). Please bring your own device and library card.
Saturday, March 7, 2:30-4:30pm
Board Games & Brain Teasers
Drop in with your friends & family for exciting board games, card games, and brain teasers! Play games from our large collection or bring your own. Challenge yourself to brain teasers such as puzzles, word searches, and Rubik’s cubes.
Tuesdays, March 10 & 24, 5:30-8:00pm
For adults & families
Drop-in
Centennial Book Chat
Share the enjoyment of the book James by Percival Everett.
Wednesday, March 11, 1:30-3:00pm
Drop-in
How to Take Better Vacation Photos
Learn how to effectively tell the story of your vacations through pictures. Regardless of what kind of camera you use (cell phone, tablet, DSLR, etc.), Lynda Buske from the Ottawa PC Users' Group and the Orleans Photo Club will show how to use light, foreground, people, & framing. Learn the best ways to shoot seaside, sunrise/sunset & more to create descriptive photos that need no captioning.
Thursday, March 12, 2:00-4:00pm
Planning for retirement
Join us for a session on how to effectively plan for the kind of retirement you desire. This program is offered in partnership with Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada (CPA Canada) and led by Chartered Professional Accountant Scott Elliott. The presentation is approximately 1 hour followed by about 30 minutes for questions and discussion.
Thursday, March 26, 3:00-4:30pm
Call, write, and stay up to date
As City Councillor, my team and I can help you with issues that fall within the municipal areas of responsibility: local traffic calming; infrastructure like sidewalks, roads, and bike lanes; municipal tax statements; some social services; parks and recreation; and more. Please note that I cannot help you with parking tickets or other provincial infractions - to attempt to do so is illegal.
Here's how to stay up to date on College Ward news and events, and to contact me:
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: college-ward.ca
Facebook: lainejohnson.college
Pour nous appeler, nous écrire et vous informer
Mon équipe et moi, en tant que conseillère municipale, pouvons vous aider avec les questions qui relèvent des domaines de responsabilité municipale : la modération de la circulation locale, les infrastructures comme les trottoirs, les routes et les bandes cyclables, les relevés d’imposition municipale, certains services sociaux, les parcs et services récréatifs et plus encore. Veuillez noter que je ne peux vous aider en ce qui concerne les contraventions de stationnement ou les infractions provinciales – le faire serait illégal.
Pour connaître les nouvelles et événements du quartier Collège et communiquer avec moi :
Courriel : [email protected]
Site Web : quartier-college.ca
Facebook : lainejohnson.college
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