Nepean MPP Lisa MacLeod
By Charlie SenaCk
In a sudden move on Sept. 13, Nepean MPP Lisa MacLeod announced she would not seek re-election when provincial voters head back to the polls.
“I started as the youngest person in two Parliaments and I’m leaving as the longest-serving woman in this term,” MacLeod said in a video posted to social media. “It’s been an honour to serve you at Queen’s Park and in our community as a local representative, opposition critic, and cabinet minister.”
The Nova Scotia native served the riding of Nepean for 19 years, which also included Carleton up until 2018 when it became its own electoral riding.
MacLeod said the decision came after a “summer of reflection” with family and friends. In April, the former Ontario cabinet minister said she wasn’t “going anywhere” during an event with Ontario Premier Doug Ford at Fal-
lowfield United Church.
Before that, she joked at the grand opening of the Barrhaven Salvation Army Church that she would still be the MPP for Nepean in 20 years.
But a few months later, MacLeod sent an email to supporters where she hinted it would be a tough election saying she decided to run.
“My seat is at risk, and it’s going to be a difficult fight in the next election. We just lost Kanata-Carleton – a seat we haven’t lost in decades. Every riding association in Ottawa is underfunded and they all need our help if we’re going to elect more Ontario PC candidates,” wrote MacLeod in June.
In her two-and-a-halfminute video, MacLeod referenced a number of her accomplishments including funding for the Strandherd Armstrong Bridge (now known as the Vimy Memorial Bridge), the Barnsdale interchange, and the future Barrhaven Downtown Cen-
tre.
MacLeod served in cabinet, first as the minister responsible for children, community, and social services, and minister responsible for woman’s issues. The five portfolios also covered immigration and anti-racism.
But her time in those positions came with much controversy. The Ontario Association for Behavioral Analysts said they received a threatening voicemail from the Nepean representative’s office, and there were countless protests outside MacLeod’s then Fallowfield Road office when there were cuts to the autism funding program.
That led to a cabinet shuffle in 2019 where MacLeod was named as the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. That was a position she held through the COVID-19 pandemic, when many investments were made in the event and film industries.
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Richmond Fair was great, we are now looking forward to the Metcalfe Fair
B y G oldie G hamari, m PP for C arleton
It was another beautiful day and a beautiful weekend as the 180th Richmond Fair took place.
The fair and Saturday’s parade have always been among my favourite events in the Carleton riding.
The fair is a wonderful time of the year for families to get out and celebrate rural life in Carleton.
We hope to see you at the Metcalfe Fair Oct. 3-6.
Governments Strengthening the Sustainability and Productivity of Ontario Farms
The governments of Canada and Ontario are investing an additional $9 million in the Ontario Agricultural Sustainability Initiative through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership
to help farmers enhance the sustainability and competitiveness of their farms. Funding will be used to help with the adoption of new technologies and best management practices to support soil health, water quality, and energy efficiency while increasing on-farm productivity.
The initiative will also help Ontario farmers improve the long-term environmental resilience of their farms. Farmers will be able to submit up to two applications to the program, depending on their needs, with successful recipients receiving up to $90,000 depending on the project category.
The Agricultural Stewardship Initiative is being delivered by the Ontario Soil and Crop
Improvement Association (OSCIA).
The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a $3.5-billion investment by federal, provincial, and territorial governments to strengthen competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of Canada’s agriculture, agri-food, and agri-based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5 billion commitment cost-shared 60% federally and 40% provincially/territorially for programs designed and delivered by the provinces and territories.
Information about how to apply for funding and project eligibility under the Agricultural Stewardship Initiative can be found on the OSCIA website. Ontario farmers can submit applications from October 16-29, 2024.
A verified, complete, fourth edition Environmental Farm Plan (EFP)
will be required to be eligible for funding. Information on how to complete the EFP is available through OSCIA.
Ontario Expanding Access to Palliative Care
The Ontario government is adding up to 84 new adult hospice beds across the province. This expansion will bring the total number of publicly funded hospice beds across Ontario to 768.
As part of Ontario’s 2024 budget, the provincial government is investing up to $19.75 million in capital funding to build 84 new adult hospice beds and 12 new pediatric hospice beds. Existing hospice residences or other applicants who wish to develop or expand new hospice beds can reach out to their local Ontario Health Region for details.
Through this process, Ontario is also look-
ing for applicants with longer term expansion opportunities to meet the future needs of Ontario’s growing communities. Since 2018, Ontario has invested over $26.5 million to add 153 new hospice beds, bringing the total to 768, giving more families the option of high quality and dignified end-of-life care.
Ten new pediatric hospice beds have already been added for Keaton’s House – Paul Paletta Children’s Hospice, the first pediatric hospice in Hamilton, and two new pediatric hospice beds at Roger Neilson Children’s Hospice located at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO).
Through the Ontario government’s Your Health plan, the province is making it easier and faster for people of all ages to connect to the care they need, where and when they need it.
This includes investing
up to $147.4 million over three years to expand access to palliative care services, including increasing funding by 45 per cent for all hospice beds across the province.
Quick Facts
- The Expression of Interest is now open for four weeks and will close at 5 p.m. on October 18, 2024. A standardized evaluation will be undertaken, including consideration of capacity in relation to demand for hospice beds.
- Existing hospice residences or other interested applicants are encouraged to reach out to their Ontario Health Region for additional application details.
- Once these 84 new beds are open, the province will provide an additional $15.9 million in operational funding per year.
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- Palliative care, which includes end-of-life care, can begin as early as the diagnosis of a serious illness and focuses on improving the quality of each individual’s life. This integrated form of care ensures people can access the supports they need when facing illness, death, grief, and/or bereavement.
- The Ontario Palliative Care Network (OPCN), led by Ontario Health, is a partnership of health service providers (including hospices, long-term care homes, hospitals and others), community and social support service organizations, health system planners, Ontario Health Teams, and patient and family/care partner advisors, formed to develop a coordinated, standardized approach to palliative care.
Ontario Enhancing Tools to Help People Prepare for Respiratory Illness Season
The Ontario government is reminding everyone
to stay safe this respiratory illness season and prevent unnecessary visits to the hospital by staying up to date on vaccinations. To protect against serious illness throughout the upcoming respiratory illness season, it is recommended everyone get their flu and COVID-19 shots as soon as they become available to them.
Starting in early October, flu shots will be available for the most vulnerable and high priority populations, including hospitalized individuals, hospital staff, and residents and staff in long-term care homes, followed by those in retirement homes and other congregate settings and individuals 65 years and older. Free flu shots for the general public aged six months and older will be available starting October 28, 2024, at doctor and nurse practitioner offices, participating pharmacies and some public health units. To learn more about the flu shot this fall, visit Ontario.ca/flu. It is safe and conven-
ient to receive both the COVID-19 and flu shots at the same time, reducing the need for multiple visits to a doctor, nurse practitioner or local pharmacy. Ontario expects to receive shipments of the updated COVID-19 vaccine from the federal government by early October following approval by Health Canada. Initial doses will be prioritized for higher risk populations and more details will be provided once doses are distributed to Ontario.
Beginning in October, families with infants and high-risk children up to 24 months old, will now have access to the new RSV immunization, Beyfortus, through the recently expanded publicly funded RSV prevention program. Families can access the Beyfortus immunization through their health care provider, as well as within hospital settings for infants born during the 2024/25 respiratory illness season. Pregnant women also have the option
of receiving a single dose of Abrysvo, to provide protection for their infant from birth to six months. The RSV prevention program has also expanded this fall to include all retirement home residents. For more details on the RSV program, visit Ontario.ca/rsv.
Vaccines in Ontario’s routine immunization schedule are provided free of charge if you meet the eligibility criteria. If you are unsure about which immunizations you or your family have received or are eligible for, talk to your health care provider or public health unit.
Through Your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care, the Ontario government is providing people with the tools they need early to connect to the care they need to keep themselves, and their loved ones safe and healthy.
Quick Facts
- As recommended by the National Advisory Committee on Immuniza-
tion (NACI), individuals should receive the most recent formulation of the COVID-19 vaccine in the fall as it is expected to provide a better immune response against currently circulating COVID-19 strains. Full details on COVID-19 vaccination this fall will be available by visiting Ontario.ca/ COVID-19.
- The risk of severe outcomes from RSV infection is highest among infants under six months of age and children under 24 months of age with chronic conditions such as chronic lung disease, congenital heart disease, compromised immune systems, or neuromuscular disorders.
- All Ontarians should stay up to date on their immunizations, especially children. Talk to a health care provider or public health unit if you are unsure if your child has missed routine immunizations or if you are unsure about which immuniza-
tions they have received.
- Vaccines in Ontario’s routine immunization schedule are provided free of charge if you meet the eligibility criteria.
- Visit Health811 online or call 811 (TTY: 1-866797-0007 toll free) for health advice and information 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Inspiration for the week
“I’d rather regret the things I’ve done than the things I haven’t done.”
- Lucille Ball
Office Notice:
My office is open Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm. If you require assistance on any matter, please contact me at any time. My staff and I will be happy to assist. Even if it’s not a provincial issue, I’ll make sure to connect you with the proper office.
Goldie Your voice at Queen’s Park
Hearing Loss - Risks & Solutions
Did you know that ignoring hearing loss has risk? If not, you are not alone… read on.
The most common hearing loss results from damage to hearing cells. This typically leads to a greater difficulty hearing treble tones in comparison to base tones. Speech therefore becomes unclear, not unheard. Consequently, understanding others is not impossible, but requires more effort and attention. Surprisingly, some choose to struggle for years before correcting the problem, but there is compelling evidence for acting sooner rather than later.
Studies repeatedly reveal the importance of maintaining good hearing levels. Imaging studies reveal the brain quickly reorganizing with untreated hearing
loss of the mildest degree. The Lancet published a report identifying hearing loss as a risk factor for dementia. And these newer findings are in addition to the longstanding link between untreated hearing loss and depression, anxiety, falls and relationship problems.
The good news is that hearing loss is a modifiable risk factor – meaning if addressed, the negative impacts can be minimized. In fact, studies show that wearing hearing aids not only improves hearing, it can help preserve the brain and mitigate the negative consequences of untreated hearing loss. And, with today’s technology advancements, user satisfaction is higher than ever!
The key to success is customization. With nearly a dozen manufacturers, each
offering their unique hearing devices, there is a great variety of options. Considering all these products, not just one or a few brands as done in manufacturerowned chains and retail settings, is how you will find the solution that suits you best.
Offering just that is Hearing Freedom. Their approach has set them apart for over 20 years. “Yes, providing each patient their unique intervention plan requires more of our clinicians. It entails more thorough assessments and requires a detailed review of every manufacturer for every single patient. But, customization leads to an undeniable difference in patient satisfaction.” explains Rosanne McNamee, Doctor of Audiology and owner of Hearing Freedom.
In addition, at Hearing Freedom, patients are seen by Audiologists - the most qualified professionals in the hearing rehabilitation field. They are proficient at servicing both children and adults, whether they are private pay or third party supported.
“Not only is hearing complex, so are today’s hearing aids,” McNamee explains. “Dealing with the most qualified health care professional, in the most independent setting, is crucial.”
If you believe in your right to the best, fullest and most customized service available, make sure you book your appointment with Hearing Freedom.
For more information visit www.hearingfreedom.com
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That same year, MacLeod came under fire after allegedly calling former Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk a number of profanities. Melnyk complained to Premier, and MacLeod apologized for using “blunt language.” The apology was not accepted.
When MacLeod ran again during the 2022 election, the NDP revealed the Nepean PC riding association had paid Her $44,000 as a housing subsidy. That was in addition to the $26,000 housing allowance MPP’s receive. The news led to a
scaled back campaign, but the incumbent MacLeod still won with 17,123 votes — about 39 per cent of all ballots cast. That was about five per cent more than Liberal candidate Tyler Watt, her shortest margin to victory.
Immediately after the election, MacLeod took some time off to address her mental health. At the time, she was also not given a cabinet position.
MacLeod has been vocal about her mental health struggles, addressing her 2014 depression diagnosis when she took the plaques off her office
walls and felt like quitting. What followed were other diagnoses of bipolar disorder and a metabolic condition, which she’s been open about at summits and in her weekly podcast.
The 44th Ontario provincial election will need to be held on or before June 24, 2026, but there are rumors swirling that the premier might hold an early election next spring before federal voters head to the polls in the fall of 2025.
During a private event held at Barrhaven’s State & Main Restaurant, MacLeod endorsed Jay Chadha to be the Nepean PC candidate on the ballot. It’s unclear when a nomination vote will be held or if other names plan to enter the race.
Chadha, a local busi-
Chadha understand how enced “controversial and poor decisions Ottawa Councillors are making with respect to Sprung Shelters, Photo Radar,
Nepean MPP Lisa MacLeod has been active in 2024 speaking out as an advocate for mental health issues and also against antisemitism in the community.
Nepean MPP Lisa MacLeod was on stage at the Barrhaven Canada Day celebration in 2024.
Arya expresses concerns in Parliament over violence in Bangladesh
Nepean Liberal MP
Chandra Arya spoke in the House of Commons on the first day of its new session, Monday, Sept. 16, expressing his concern over the continuing and increasing violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh.
Arya made the statement to bring attention to the mounting problems and attacks targeting Hindus, Buddhists and Christians in Bangladesh. Arya, who is Hindu, is originally from Karnataka, India’s Tumakuru district. He has maintained strong ties to the Indian community both in Canada and in his home country since first being elected.
“I am deeply concerned by violence targeting religious minorities, including Hindus, Buddhists and Christians in Bangladesh,” said Arya in his statement.
“Every time there is instability in Bangladesh, religious
minorities, particularly Hindus, face the brunt.”
Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her former cabinet minister have had 89 murder cases filed against them. Among them are five new cases that were filed earlier this month. Hasina, 76, resigned as leader of Bangladesh and fled to India Aug. 5. She left after a massive student-led protest against a quota system in the hiring process for government jobs.
Following her resignation, more than 230 people have been killed in Bangladesh to bring the total number of deaths since the protests began in July to 600.
Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, 84, has been named Chief Adviser of the country’s interim government.
“The share of religious minorities in the population of Bangladesh has signifi-
cantly decreased since it achieved its independence in 1971,” Arya stated. “From 23.1%, including about 20% Hindus, it has now come down to just about 9.6%, including about 8.5% Hindus.”
The United Nations human rights watchdog has been sent to Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, to investigate the violence against minorities following the resignation of Hasina and the change of government.
India Today reported last week on the rise of extremist groups like Jamaat-e-Islami and similar ideological extremist wings.
The instability has sent a wave of worry through the Bangladeshi community in Canada.
“Canadian Hindus who have families in Bangladesh are concerned about the security and safety of their families, their temples and properties,” said Arya in his
statement. “They will be holding a rally on Parliament Hill next Monday, Septem-
ber 23, to highlight the current situation there.
“They will be joined by
Canadian Buddhists and Christians who have families in Bangladesh.”
Nepean MP Chandra Arya expressed his concern in Parliament over religious minorities, including Hindus, being targeted with violent attacks in Bangladesh.
INDEPENDENT EDITorIal
High youth unemployment needs our full attention
The school year has begun, and many young people are likely making some hard financial decisions right now. Youth unemployment hit 14.2 percent in July – the highest rate seen since September 2012 outside the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021.
The youth employment rate has been worsening for a year, dropping by four percentage points since last summer. Among full-time students, the decline was even larger – almost seven percentage points. This represents a loss of 112,000 jobs among students in just a year.
A very large group of young workers are bearing the brunt of the economic slowdown caused by high interest rates, competing for a limited number of openings not only among themselves but with older, more experienced workers as well.
Given strong population growth, especially among young people, the labour market is simply not growing fast enough to absorb new entrants.
Young people have just come through the huge disruptions associated with the pandemic and are now facing sky-high rents, tuition and food costs.
The inflation rate may be easing this summer, but the lines at food banks haven’t. Food banks and community pantries are now permanent fixtures on campuses across the country, serving students with no money left after covering rent and tuition.
The situation of international students is particularly acute. These students come to Canada on the hook for a massive tuition bill (typically more than four times higher than the equivalent Canadian student) only to find that the cost of living is much higher than they expected. As a result, many are living in appalling conditions.
The depth of this generational crisis is staggering. Compared to previous generations, young adults are facing a future of lower earnings and more employment precarity, further burdened with high levels of debt.
Young people’s experience in the summer of 2024 clearly demonstrates that governments, post-secondary institutions, and employers need to do much more – not only to make education more affordable but to tackle the surge in youth unemployment and the growing divide between good jobs and bad jobs.
In our economic system, there are winners and losers. At this moment, the economic elites are throwing young people under the bus, collateral damage in efforts to rein in inflation and reassert neoliberal economic orthodoxy that delivers extraordinary wealth to the rich.
The systemic underfunding of post-secondary institutions has compounded this difficult situation as schools have turned to international students to fill funding shortfalls – opening the door to precarity and abuse.
Make no mistake. As the baby boom generation retires, Canada will need to rely on the next generation of workers – those who were born here and the many we welcome from abroad. This is precisely the time we need to invest in young people and their futures.
Katherine Scott is a senior researcher with the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives.
© Troy Media
BARRHAVEN
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Website: www.manotickmessenger.ca
Staff/Contributors: Gary Coulombe, Larry Ellis, Skyler Fraser, Goldie Ghamari, David Hill, Wilson Lo, Jeffrey Morris, Greg Newton.
What you cannot bet on at Future Hard Rock Casino
While the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Commission has reigned in control of gambling and online betting, we have decided to let you know the things that you CAN’T wager on at Future Hard Rock Casino on Albion Road.
You cannot bet on the over-under for how many months behind the Ottawa LRT Phase 2 expansion will be completed.
You cannot bet on the number of trash bags thrown in the ditch along Borrisokane Road or Second Line Road in October by area residents who do not want to pay the $3 tag cost for going over the city’s three-bag trash limit, which goes into effect Oct. 1.
You cannot bet on how many antisemitic posts on the X platform that any executives from Ontario’s labour unions will post, and then delete claiming they did not intend to be antisemitic.
You cannot bet on how many times the Ottawa Police Service will be called in to restore order after angry mobs show up at Ottawa-Carleton District School Board meetings during the 2024-25 school year.
You cannot bet on how many months behind the OCDSB will be when they attempt to manage the construction of their next school once they receive funding.
You cannot bet on how many school bus routes will be cancelled by OSTA each and every day.
You cannot bet on how many months behind construction will be on the proposed new downtown arena, though there may be some bookies willing to take some sweet action on that bet if the OCDSB and the consortium responsible for building the LRT are collaborating on this project.
Should the park and ride school bus ride model be used to shuttle Sens fans to the impossible-to-get-to LeBreton Flats area, you cannot bet on how many of these buses will be cancelled if OSTA is in charge of this plan.
And if OSTA is in charge of the Sens’ park and ride plan, you cannot bet on how many of their bus drivers will quit on a game-to-game basis.
claim that the federal and provincial governments shortchanged the City of Ottawa by hundreds of millions of dollars, sending the city into a financial tailspin.
You cannot bet on how many landowners and property owners will be pissed off at the RVCA when the next round of wetlands declarations is announced.
You cannot bet on the exact shade of black according to the Adobe photoshop colour wheel that will be on the next photos that surface of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wearing black face.
You cannot bet on the over-under on how long you will wait the next time you go to the Queensway-Carleton Hospital or when you take your child to CHEO.
You cannot bet on how many truckers will show up for the next freedom convoy.
You cannot bet on how many Timbits Pierre Poilievre will bring to the truckers during the duration of the next convoy.
You cannot bet on where Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will be hunkered down during the next convoy. That means that if he is hunkered down in India, you cannot create a parlay bet combining him being in India and what ridiculous outfit drawing public ridicule he will be wearing.
You cannot bet on the possibility of proPalestinian protestors blocking the routes into Ottawa’s downtown, thus negating any chance of the truckers from the convoy getting into downtown Ottawa.
You cannot bet on how many restaurant owners in downtown Ottawa will want to pee in the soup of any of the PSAC leaders responsible for telling its employees to boycott downtown businesses.
You cannot bet on how much money Governor General Mary Simon will spend on clothing for her next major official trip.
You cannot bet on how many times federal government employees will not get paid because of problems with the Phoenix Pay System.
You cannot bet on how deep the next sinkhole on Rideau Street will be.
The Barrhaven Independent is published every other FRIDAY in Manotick, Ontario. Letters will be edited for length, clarity and libellous statements. Display rates are available on request. The Barrhaven Independent is not responsible for the loss of unsolicited manuscripts, photos or other material used for publication purposes.
You cannot bet on how many times in a day Carleton MP and Conversative Party of Canada leader Pierre Poilievre will say “carbon tax election.” However, with beer, coolers and wine now available at corner stores, there is an opportunity for a “Pierre said carbon tax election drinking game.”
You cannot get any sweet action on an Ottawa LRT parlay bet that includes a sink hole, a derailment and trains not running due to extreme cold weather.
You cannot bet on what costume Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will wear on his next trip to India, or whether it is more offensive than embarrassing, or vice-versa.
You cannot bet on the over-under on the percentage that homeowners’ taxes will increase due to Mayor Mark Sutcliffe’s
You cannot bet on what the percentage of votes influenced by Chinese government interference will be in the upcoming federal and provincial elections.
You cannot bet on how many acres of greenbelt land will be used for development for the remainder of Premier Doug Ford’s political term.
You can’t bet on how many more letters, numbers and symbols will be added to 2SLGBTQIA+ between now and calendar year end 2025. OLG doesn’t even know who is in charge of adding letters and symbols.
And finally, you cannot bet on how many complaints we will receive because of this column.
If you gamble, please pay responsibly. For help and support with gambling issues, please visit playsmart.ca.
Police seeking assistance in identifying Barrhaven assault suspect
The Ottawa Police Service West Criminal Investigative Section is seeking public assistance to identify a suspect responsible for an assault in Barrhaven in the 100 block of Marketplace Avenue.
At approximately 7:40 p.m. on August 24th, the suspect assaulted the victim, leaving the victim with minor injuries.
The suspect is described as a white
male, between 5’10” (178 cm) and 6’0” (183 cm) tall, with a medium build. At the time of the incident he was seen wearing a blue hooded jacket, black hat with a light brim, plaid pants, black, blue and white Nike running shoes and black gloves.
Anyone with information as to the identity of this suspect, dash camera video, or surveillance footage of this incident is asked
to contact Detective Bradley of the West Criminal Investigative Section at 613-2361222, ext. 2235.
Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca.
Police are seeking public assistance in identifying this suspect.
Heat seekers filled the Shaw Centre for the 4th annual Heating Up The Capital
Hot sauce enthusiasts visited the Shaw Centre on September 14 for 4th annual Heating Up The Capital Hot Sauce Expo. Over 40 hot sauce vendors were at the expo showcasing their goods. There was lots of entertainment for the attendees to go with their hot sauce sampling. From pepper eating contest, spicy sausage eating challenge, One Chunk Challenge, Extreme Chili Alliance Belt Match, learn about growing peppers, to a Erik Begg putting one of his own hot sauces in his eye! The exhibition was organized by Angela and Hiaco of Haico hot sauces from Barrhaven. Skyl
Transit fares and cuts will be a major driver of the 2025 budget
By Wilson lo BarrHaven east CounCillor
Last week, Council discussed and voted on budget directions for the 2025 municipal budget.
Budget directions were approved by the Finance and Corporate Services Committee a few days before, capping the general property tax increase to 2.9 per cent, combined with an overall growth of 1.5 per cent from new development.
Transit is the exception and where things get tricky.
You may recall the Mayor’s Fairness for Ottawa campaign, which he launched in August, identifying general underfunding by the province when it comes to transit.
His claims were recently backed up by a report from the Financial Accountability Office of Ontario, stating that transit subsidies in the Greater Toronto Area equal almost $200 per resident, the same subsidy was $31.91 per resident in Ottawa, while London has it the worst at $15.33 per resident.
Since municipalities cannot legally run deficits, staff presented options of ranges, that are dependent on the level of financial support the city will receive from
East
Barrhaven Ward Report
Wilson Lo, Councillor
upper levels of government.
A transit levy increase could range between 2.9 and 37 per cent, and fares could also increase between 2.5 and 75 per cent. There may be service cuts, capital deferrals, and a re-examination of discounted fare products, depending on the funding we receive.
Based on what the Mayor has shared, a worsecase scenario involving the maximum transit levy, will result in the equivalent of a 9.9 per cent property tax increase, when combined with the general rate.
For reference, the 2024 transit levy for properties in Barrhaven, is 0.21 per cent of the assessed value.
Additionally, the province is wholly funding major transit projects in the GTA, including cost overruns and legal claims, though that is a product of timing and changes in government and policy.
Despite my support for the overall objective of the Mayor’s campaign, I believe we can still do better.
In brief, although the formula of funding transit through the transit levy and
An example of the combinations of items that can be put out. (From the City of Ottawa)
fares, plus top-ups from other levels of government, has been dependable for the last 100 years or so, it no longer works.
But because we’ve leaned so heavily on a formula that’s worked for so long, there’s a general lack of creativity in guiding ourselves out of this predicament. Asking for funding from other levels of government really is more of the same.
There are options that
leverage the city’s transit land and capital assets, to bring OC Transpo towards financial sustainability. If it is done well, a long-term goal of financial self-sustainability and a sunsetting of most/all of the transit levy may even be possible!
A change like that requires a seismic shift in mentality, structure, and administration, which I am working on. Interestingly, the model is already used in Ottawa, although not for
transit, so it’s not another exercise in comparing us to a European or Asian city (though it’s used there as well).
Our situation has given what I’m working on more purpose, and I’m excited to share it with you soon— just working on some final research to properly mature the idea.
For now, staff will be working within the parameters set by Council to develop a draft budget, which
will be tabled November 13, 2024. Following that, each Committee will discuss and vote on its specific budget before a final Council decision on December 11, 2024.
Like last year, Councillors Brown, Desroches, Hill, and I will be hosting a joint virtual budget consultation, scheduled for November 19, 2024. Registration links will be available in a newsletter and via my Facebook page.
Prepare for Ottawa’s three-Item limit for curbside Garbage Collection
By DaviD Hill BarrHaven West CounCillor
On September 30, 2024 the City of Ottawa’s threeitem limit for curbside garbage collection comes into effect, so what does this mean and why is it happening?
This new policy applies to all households that receive curbside garbage collection. So, what does “three items” mean and what constitutes a garbage item? A garbage item includes a container (up to 140 litres), a garbage bag, or a bulky item (furniture
Barrhaven West - Report
David Hill, Councillor , Ward 3
and/or large items that cannot fit into a bag or bin, like a couch). For example, you can put multiple smaller bags into a container and put out three containers. Any combination of the above garbage items work, as long as the total does not exceed three items (see the image for more examples). If you have to go over the three-item limit, there will be yellow bags available
for purchase. However, before using yellow bags, make sure to compost and recycle as best you can as there is no limit on your blue bin, black bin, or compost – more on this below!
What about illegal dumping? Part of the change includes the hiring and deployment of solid waste inspectors for proactive monitoring, education, and enforcement across Ottawa, particularly areas that are prone to illegal dumping like parks, public spaces, rural ditches, and receptacles. If you come across illegal dump-
ing, it’s important that you call 3-1-1 or go to Ottawa. ca/311 so the City can address it as soon as possible. So why the change? Our landfill is filling up fast and could reach capacity in approximately the next decade. Furthermore, over half of what is dumped in the landfill can be placed in the green, blue, or black bins. The new limit will ensure that households put out three items of garbage instead of six, preventing unnecessary waste from going to the landfill. If you want to explore this topic further, the City of Ottawa’s website has a comprehen-
sive overview of the new policy. Again, there will be no limit to how much you can recycle or compost!
How can households maximize recycling? Use the City’s waste explorer application if you’re not sure about an item. Things you wouldn’t think could be composted like floor sweepings, cat litter and dog feces (in a sealed bag), pet fur, sugar/flour paper bags, waxed paper and much more are all good to go in the green bin! The bottom line is that recycling and composting awareness is key; and that’s why I’ve been con-
ducting a waste diversion campaign with volunteers in Barrhaven West neighborhoods for the past two summers to ensure our community is doing the best we can to recycle! If you want to help out with this, get in touch with my office and I’d be happy to welcome you to the waste diversion team! So please, as we move to the three-item curbside garbage collection limit, check what can go in your blue bin, black bin, and green bin, and check what you can reuse or donate – don’t let it go to waste!
RONA Manotick celebrates its grand opening with board-cutting ceremony
The new RONA store on Bankfield Road held its official opening on Thurs., Sept. 19.
RONA inc., one of Canada’s leading home improvement retailers operating and servicing some 425 corporate and affiliated stores, joined
dealer owners Joe Reid, Ryan Austin and Pat Butler to celebrate the grand opening of their new store RONA Manotick. Leaders from RONA’s Dealers Support Team along with partners and store employees attended the traditional board cutting event.
Also on hand were RideauJock Councillor David Brown and Manotick Village Community Association president Leeanne Vanderburgt.
“Manotick was missing a centre like ours to meet the needs of the local community and to help bring construction
and renovation projects to life. The town has growth plans, and it was clear for us that the strength of the RONA brand, along with the company’s offering and services, especially in terms of retail, lumber and building materials, would help us bring about our vision for our store,” said Ryan Austin, dealer owner, RONA Manotick.
RONA Manotick is the first renovation centre to open in the city and has a 14,000 sq. ft. sales area offering a complete selection of lumber, building materials, paint, plumbing, kitchen and bathroom cabinets, appliances, hardware, and seasonal products to meet the construction and renovation needs of the local community. The opening of this store has created 15 new jobs in the region.
“Right now, our customers are about 50 per cent retail customers and 50 percent contractors,” said Austin. “In time, we expect that number will grow to 70-30, with 70
per cent being contractors.”
RONA is strategically positioned on Rideau Valley Drive west of Manotick near Prince of Wales Drive in what was originally the McNeil Motors building. It had also been the location for Dan Murphy Ford, before that dealership moved to Barrhaven and became Barrhaven Ford. The building had also been the home of Camptown RV.
With the construction growth in Manotick, the southern end of Barrhaven, Richmond and Greely, the RONA Manotick store is in an ideal location. It is only five minutes from both Richmond and the Half Moon Bay/ Stonebridge communities.
“The location is perfect,” Austin said, who added that the store is feeling a need in the area. “We did have to do some renovations in the building and knock down some walls that were not load bearing, but it went well and we are very happy with it. Our
customers like the layout of the store as well.
RONA Manotick is also the first RONA affiliated store in the province of Ontario to display the new visual identity designed specifically for RONA stores owned by independent dealers. The interior and exterior signage has been modernized to highlight the entrepreneurship, unique history, and community spirit which characterize RONA affiliated dealers.
“It’s amazing to see entrepreneurs like Joe, Ryan and Pat, with an objective to improve their town’s services and offering. I’m confident that their store will be a great added value for the local community, and I’m very happy that they chose RONA to help them achieve their business goals,” mentioned Alain Ménard, Senior Vice-President, RONA Affiliated Dealers at RONA inc.
The new RONA store has created 15 new jobs in the area.
Manotick RONA held its official board cutting Sept. 19. From left to right are Roy Austn, Doug Young, Adam Leclerc, Ryan Austin, Catherine Taylor, and Scott Wilson.
Autumn is the air at the Log Farm on Cedarview Road
From the corn maze, to wagon rides, to scarecrows and lots of pumpkins, its fall time at the Log Farm.
The corn maze is ready for those who want to try their skills at finding their way out without getting lost in the Log Farm’s three-acre corn maze! Take on the maze as many times as you’d like during your visit. The Wagon Ride will be running throughout your visit. There is a designated area where the wagon loads up and heads out into the woods for a 15-minute ride through the everchanging maples. Have fun spotting all the silly scarecrows along the way.
The last wagon ride of the day is at 3:30pm. At the farm, there are lots of friendly animals to see, feed and touch. The kid’s barn has some imaginary play areas along with the famous corn sensory table. The tabletop activities change weekly relating to the theme of the week.
Matilda’s Pioneer Play Kitchen is always a hit, the kids love cooking up a storm in there. During your visit you will find some fun hay play structures to climb and explore around the farm. Make sure to take a walk in the Enchanted Forest, a new and fun adventure on the farm. A
short walk in the woods where you will find fairy tales frozen in time. Read the short stories under the canopy of the magical forest.
Bringing a picnic or some snacks is recommended to enjoy
them in the picnic and play area.
As soon as the pumpkins are ready, usually early October, the Log Farm invites you into the pumpkin patch to search for your perfect pumpkin, or pick some
out from the pre-picked pumpkin piles. There are wagons that you are welcome to use to take your pumpkins from the patch to your car.
The Log Farm is located at 670 Cedarview Road Nepean, just north of Barrhaven. For more information, visit www. thelogfarm.com.
Bingoland Gaming Charities Association supporting community in Barrhaven
By Ralph Tweedie
The Kiwanis Club of Manotick is very proud of what we accomplish in Manotick, Barrhaven and the surrounding area. We have the financial stability to provide large donations for community projects while delivering annual support to many community-oriented organizations. This would not be possible without the support we get from the Bingoland Gaming Charities Association (BGCA).
Our members have participated as active volunteers at the Bingoland South Gaming Centre for over 25 years. Once a week 2 volunteers take a shift at Bingoland South Gaming Centre. While Bingo is in session, we pick up used bingo cards and debris between games. We generally keep the play area clean and help players with mobility issues i.e. get coffee etc. If Bingo is not in session one volunteer will greet players at the front door while the other player wipes down machines etc. We are encouraged to engage in conversation and thank patrons for their support. It’s an enjoyable way to volunteer. In return, we receive a portion of the funds raised which we use to support youth
Kiwanis News
Ralph Tweedie
groups, students, seniors and community projects and events in Manotick, Barrhaven and the Ottawa area.
It’s a win / win / win situation.
The charities are the biggest winners. In the Ottawa Region alone, Bingoland South supports 29 charities and non-profit organizations. In fact, they have raised more than $2 million for charities in our community. Overall, BGCA has raised more than $500 million for more than 2,000 charitable groups. This grass roots approach to supporting charities provides financial support where it’s needed most.
The bingo players win. It’s an exciting form of entertainment. The fun of playing comes from pure chance, there is no way to predict the winning numbers. The atmosphere is different from the major casinos. It is a more intimate setting resulting in more comradery among regular players, staff and volunteers. Players have the satisfaction of knowing
they are indirectly supporting a worthy cause. Some players use lucky charms as a fun way to personalize their play area.
The volunteers win as well. We greet and talk to the players. We proudly wear our colours. It’s a very sociable and enjoyable way to raise money for our charity while raising our visibility and branding.
The diversity of the charitable organizations served speaks to the many unique needs addressed by this initiative. For charities that wish to keep a low public profile, it is one of the few ways they can gain financial support. For a complete list of charities go to bingolandcharities.ca.
The following testimonials give credence of the value of BGCA’s commitment to local charity groups:
• The Nepean Eagles Football Club: “All funds raised go to providing necessary equipment and play field access for both contact and non-contact programming. We have established a priority in ensuring no child is unable to participate due to financial challenges.”
• The Kidney Foundation of Canada: “Funds raised in 2022 were directed to providing verified low-
income kidney patients with financial assistance to cover costs related to their diagnosis – such as transportation to treatment, medications, medical equipment, etc. –and to pay for emergency living expenses. These funds are helping medically and financially vulnerable people in Ottawa and we are deeply appreciative of this support.”
• The Distress Centre of Ottawa: “The Distress Centre of Ottawa and Region is able to use the funds donated by BINGO to assist in funding our Volunteer Program. The funds help us recruit and train
100 new volunteers every year to work on our phone, text and chat lines. It also allows us to provide continuing education, support and supervision of our volunteers. We are beyond grateful for the support from BINGO!”
• ABLE2: Able2 provides support for people with disabilities. This from a thank you letter to ABLE2. “In August 2021, Liv and I were very excited to hear from one of the social workers at ABLE2 who thought they had found a potential match for Liv. Her name was Anika and we quickly set up a time
for Anika to come over to our house to meet Liv. They instantly hit it off! “ Anika and Liv have formed a bond and become true friends. Anika has really made an amazing impact on Liv’s life and social connections outside of her family. We are so happy that this program exists.”
The Bingoland Charitable Gaming Association makes a big difference. They are an efficient and effective way to help the organizations who work directly in the community. They in turn deserve our appreciation and support.
The Nepean Mosquito Eagles listen to their coaches at their season opening jamboree. the Barrhaven-based football club has been supported by Bingoland through the efforts of the Manotick Kiwanis Club.
Sadie, Charlie and Anna venture into the corn maze.
Manotick Minto Dream Home grand prize in annual CHEO lottery
The 2024 CHEO Dream of a Lifetime Lottery was officially launched today, featuring more than $5 million in prizes including a beautifully decorated Minto Dream Home, trips to top-rated destinations, vehicles and more. The annual lottery is one of the biggest fundraisers to support CHEO’s historic campaign to transform pediatric healthcare.
“Every ticket purchased in the Dream of a Lifetime Lottery means more support for the children and families in our community,” says Steve Read, President and CEO, CHEO Foundation.
Named The Oasis, the home offers a calming and minimalist aesthetic, infused with raw textures and natural materials. The 5,097 square-foot Minto Dream Home is located at 845 Companion Crescent in the Mahogany community of Manotick.
The public is invited to visit Tuesdays to Fridays between noon to 8 p.m. and Saturday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The grand prize winner will also receive $100,000 in cash, a 2024 MercedesBenz EQB 300 4MATIC courtesy of Star Motors of Ottawa, house cleaning for a year from ATC Cleaning, legal services from Mann Lawyers LLP, moving services from Adam’s Moving, $5,000 in groceries from Farm Boy and a $5,000 W.O.
The grand prize package is valued at over $3.3 million and includes a Dream Home built by Minto Communities, designed and decorated by Minto’s Karen van der Velden and Tanner Vine of Tanner Vine Interiors.
Stinson and Son Ltd. gas card.
Other exciting prizes!
50/50 draw: Also returning this year is the popular 50/50 Draw. Last year’s lucky winner took home over $1.2 million. Tickets for the 50/50 Cash Draw are available at a cost of one for $10, five for $25 or 15 for $50.
The Early Bird Prize will offer $250,000 to the lucky recipient who purchases their tickets by Friday, November 15. Cars, trips, gift cards and so much more up for grabs!
Tickets can be ordered online at www. dreamofalifetime.ca and by calling (613) 722KIDS (5437) or 1-877562-5437.
The Minto Dream Home in the CHEO Dream of a lifetime Lottery is in Manotick’s Mahogony Community.
CHEO Dream of a Lifetime Lottery tickets are $100 each or three for $250.
Bundle and save with the following options: - five lottery tickets plus 15 50/50 tickets for $500; - three lottery tickets plus 15 50/50 tickets for $300; - one lottery ticket plus 15 50/50 tickets for $150. Proceeds will help CHEO continually address the evolving health needs of young patients in our community.
Trivia fundraiser at Barrhaven Legion for child with rare genetic disease
By Nevil HuNt, your CommuNity voiCe
SpeCial to tHe iNdepeNdeNt
The five members of the Laidlaw family have set off on a voyage.
No one can say what this trip will be like, where it may turn or meander, or what kind of challenges may pop up. But the final destination is absolutely clear – a cure for sevenyear-old Jack Laidlaw’s genetic disease.
On June 15, the family held a unique fundraiser on their Stittsville street, and people arrived all day to add loonies and other denominations to a sparkling string of coins. Along with the proceeds of garage sales hosted by many neighbours on Helm Circle, the day brought in more than $16,000.
NO CURE … YET
Jack’s disease is called SPG4, a rare genetic disease
and neurological disorder. It’s a mutation in the gene that helps motor neurons function correctly in the brain and spinal cord.
SPG4 is progressive, and once symptoms begin, degeneration continues and muscle weakness and spasticity worsen over time. People with SPG4 may then eventually lose the ability to walk on their own.
All funds raised will be donated to help research into SPG4, but there’s a long road ahead.
Jack’s parents, Anna and Richard, visited Boston Children’s Hospital and the University of Massachusetts recently to meet the people heading up research into SPG4.
“They have had success,” Anna said of the lab work done there. “They’ve done work on simple cells and mice but to move it to clinical trials will cost $3 million.”
The Laidlaws discovered
that there are two sets of parents in the U.S. who have been hoping to fundraise for a cure.
“We’re combining the three groups – the families – together trying to fund the $3 million,” Anna said. “Fundraising has taken over my life. I would try anything and try anyone to help.
“The only way I can sleep is knowing that I’m doing everything that I can.”
Jack was diagnosed with SPG4 last December, and Anna has taken time away from work to concentrate on raising money and connecting with other families affected by the disease and with experts.
“At first, I thought I’d fall apart when I heard it was progressive and there was no cure,” Anna said. “But we’re keeping positive for the kids.”
The couple share that positivity – Richard adds
that the research into a cure tells him “It’s now possible to beat this thing.”
“We make a good team,” Anna said of their efforts so far.
One way to potentially slow the progression of SPG4 is to get active, and Jack is ready, willing and able to do that. He does prescribed exercises every day and he takes part in sports six days a week, plus piano lessons on the off day.
Jack is in Grade one at Holy Redeemer School, and Anna said the staff there have been very supportive, even getting Jack’s exercise plan integrated into his daily routine.
Online donations can be made by visiting blugenes. org. Look for the link to “Genetic disorders” to find a link to SPG4.
Richard and Anna Laidlaw have three boys. Sevenyear-old Jack is the oldest.
Barrhaven’s ‘Crime for Christmas’ book fair a first for national capital
By Don Butler
A cold case revisited. A missing boy. A Ouija board that spells out a crime scene. And much more.
Nine Ottawa mystery authors will gather at the Barrhaven Legion on Nov. 19 in the national capital region’s first-ever mystery authors book fair, Crime for Christmas.
Peggy Blair, an internationally published mys-
tery author, came up with the idea and ran it by her followers on X/Twitter to see what they thought. When one said she would travel from out of town to buy books from Ottawa authors, Blair realized she was on to something.
She reached out to mystery authors in Ottawa and surrounding areas, and within a day, eight had signed on to Crime for Christmas. Along
with Blair, the participating mystery authors include Brenda Chapman, Don Butler, Mike Martin, Amy Tector, John Delacourt, Mary Jane Maffini, Barbara Fradkin and Bob Bickford.
“I don’t know what it is, maybe something in the water, but the Ottawa area has a plethora of terrific mystery writers,” Blair said. “Some aren’t very well known because
they’re published by independent presses or are self-published.
“I’m always looking for ways to amplify their voices and at the same time expose readers to great Canadian writers they may not be aware of or whose books aren’t always easy to find.”
Books make a great Christmas gift, Blair added. “As well, this is an opportunity to meet and
support local authors, pick up some of their latest releases, and support a local Legion.”
The Crime for Christmas book fair will be open for business from 4 to 8 p.m. on Nov. 19 in the party room at the Barrhaven Legion, 3500 Fallowfield Rd. There’ll be snacks and a cash bar for those eager to get an early start on the holiday reading spirit.
Ottawa Rideau Valley PROBUS Club holding Open House Oct. 2
Hello Neighbours! Are you retired or semi-retired? Are you new to the area? Are you interested in listening to interesting speakers, enjoying tours, and meeting new people? Why not join our PROBUS Club?
PROBUS Canada clubs provide regular gatherings for semi-retired and retired people who value opportunities to meet with others of similar interests. Our goal at the Ottawa Rideau Valley Club is focused on providing fellowship, friendship, and fun for individuals in our local community.
We are a non-partisan and not-for-profit organization, lead by a vibrant group of volunteers dedicated to camaraderie and learning through interesting speakers, events and activities. We meet on the first Wednesday of every month at Manotick United Church to enjoy a coffee, chat with
members and listen to an hour-long presentation on such fascinating topics as: “Whatever Happened to Amelia Earhart?”; or “The Dream of World Peace –can Canada Make a Difference?” A brief business meeting takes place after the speaker to talk about upcoming activities, and
folks can then attend a local restaurant lunch if they wish.
In between speaker meetings, we organize a few activities such as bi-weekly walks, theatre groups, and local tours. We also enjoy a monthly opportunity to meet in smaller groups at various PROBUS
members’ homes, sharing Drinks and Appetizers, friendly greetings, and stimulating conversations. We will be hosting an Open House on Wed, Oct 2, and we’d love to meet you! Check out our website at www.probusorv.org for contact and event information.
Westpointe Retirement Community holds Grand Opening Soiree
Westpointe Retirement Community held their Grand Opening Soiree Wednesday September 18that their Maravista location in
Barrhaven. Shawn Bauder (Regional Director Of Marketing) said, “for the Community Businesses to attend, we specifically want to engage our community partners to engage and learn ways to be involved in the community.” Councilloir David Hill was in attendance.
From the ottawa riDeau Valley ProBus CluB
Picture from left to right are Shawn Bauder (Regional Director of Marketing), Josh Dubovie (Marketing Manager Westpointe) and Daniel Leduc Marketing/Communications Council On Aging Ottawa).
In the other picture are Josh Dubovie (Marketing Manager Westpointe), David Hill (West Barrhaven Councillor), and Lynda Clingen (General Manager).
Peggy Blair
Ford Mustang linked to 2021 Leo Santostefano murder investigation
The Ottawa Police Service Homicide Unit is seeking assistance in identifying a person of interest in the 2021 homicide of 40-year-old Leo Santostefano.
On June 4, 2024, patrol officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop with a black Ford Mustang in the area of Greenbank Road and Hunt Club Road. As officers approached the vehicle to further investigate, the vehicle fled by u-turning and proceeding east on Hunt Club Road. The vehicle was later located abandoned.
As a result of forensic examination of the vehicle, the driver or occupant is linked to the unsolved homicide that occurred in the overnight hours of March 6-7, 2021.
Thanks to assistance from the public, the Homicide Unit is seeking further help in identifying a person of interest linked to the Ford Mustang and possibly the murder of Leo Santostefano.
The person of interest is described as a black male, between 6’0” (183 cm) and 6’5” (196 cm), with a large build. He was seen wearing a black and white tracksuit, black shoes and what appears to be designer glasses.
On Sunday, March 7 at approximately 9 a.m., a man’s body was discovered by a passerby on the snowmobile trail off Dobson Road in Richmond. Police blocked off McBean Street at Ottawa Street, south of South Carleton High School, while investigators worked
the scene.
Police identified the victim as 40-year-old Leo Santostefano of Gloucester.
At the time, Ottawa Police told the Manotick Messenger/RichmondHub that they were searching for a 2008 silver four-door Nissan Altima with fresh damage, scratches on the rear left side of the bumper, and part of the muffler missing. The Ontario license plate was CKZC 717. The vehicle has since been recovered.
The first information about the black mustang was released to the media after the June 4, 2024 traffic stop incident.
Ivana Santostefano, the victim’s mother, told CBC that her son was a gentle soul. She also said she had
last seen him the day before his body was recovered. She said she saw him when he left for the store that morning, and she knew something was wrong when she didn’t hear from him again.
She added that she and her family felt “something was wrong,” according to her CBC interview. “He was just a wonderful guy,” she said. “The gentlest soul you’d ever meet.”
Santostefano was known by many in the local recreational soccer and hockey communities.
Anyone with information regarding the identity of the person in the pictures or information relating to who may have been driving the vehicle on
June 4th, 2024, is asked to contact the Ottawa Police Service Homicide Unit 613-236-1222, extension 5493.
or at crimestoppers.ca.
Committees approve new by-law to reduce vehicle idling
Ottawa’s committees on Emergency Preparedness and Protective Services and Environment and Climate Change have approved an updated Idling Control Bylaw. The by-law aims to reduce vehicle idling and the resulting harmful emissions that contribute to climate change and air pollution.
The maximum idling time would be reduced from three minutes to one minute per hour, in line with best practices from Natural Resources Canada and other Ontario municipalities such as Toronto, Kingston and Burlington. When it is colder than zero degrees Celsius or warmer than 27 degrees Celsius, the maximum idling time would be five minutes per hour.
Additionally, the Committees directed staff to install signs along high-traffic corridors throughout the city, encouraging drivers to reduce unnecessary idling. If every Ottawa driver reduced daily idling in their personal vehicle by two minutes, it would decrease carbon dioxide emissions by about 31.2 million kilograms a year. That’s the equivalent of removing 6,780 vehicles from Ottawa roads, and saving about $20 million in fuel costs per year.
The by-law would offer
exemptions when idling is necessary for health, safety and proper vehicle function, such as when powering mobile workshops, maintaining temperature for medical reasons, and assisting emergency services. Public transit vehicles would be exempt from the by-law, but other City vehicles would be subject to its requirements. The new rules would come into effect on January 1, 2025.
After the joint meeting, the Emergency Preparedness and Protective Services Committee convened separately to consider updates to the City’s Licensing By-law for private snow plow contractors. The Committee approved the recommendations of the Snow Plow Contractor Licensing Review,(link is external) which aims to address concerns related to public safety, accessibility, consumer protection and property damage.
The City would prohibit unauthorized snow dumping on private property or in accessible parking spaces. Snow dumped on roads and sidewalks or in accessible parking spaces would need to be cleaned up within four hours. Private snow plows would be required to display accessible signage and annual validation stickers on their
license plates. Contractors would be able to use metal driveway markers to identify their serviced driveway and would be responsible for
replacing broken markers and cleaning any debris. The minimum liability coverage required for private snow plow contractors would
increase from $1 million to $2 million.
The cost to administer and enforce the new provisions for private snow plowing
would be fully funded by annual licensing fees, which would increase by $18 per contractor and by $18 per vehicle.
Jags win
St. Joseph Jaguars quarterback Ashton St. Germain fires a pass while Carter Surowiec (7) looks to block a defender during the Jag’s National Capital Secondary School Athletic Association senior boys football season opener Thurs., Sept. 19. St. Germain connected with receiver Nathan Currie to help lead the Jags to a tight 20-19 win. In other action last week, the St. Mother Teresa Titans opened their season with a 30-0 win over Sir Wilfrid Laurier in Gloucester.
Police released photos of a person of interest.
From Our Archives: Local men honoured by Ukrainian National Guard
From the Barrhaven Independent SeptemBer 25, 2014
It was perhaps the unlikeliest of local ceremonies that you would expect to see in the community.
Gary Chayko, a local attorney, and Arthur Andersen, a local consultant, were decorated by the Ukrainian National Guard for their efforts in bringing potential suppliers of defensive weapons to the beleaguered nation.
Arthur Andersen Defence Consulting, Inc. facilitated a visit between the Ukrainian delegation and 39 Canadian companies in Ottawa last week. The Ukrainian National Guard is looking for sellers who can fill their want list of helicopters, armoured vehicles, anti-tank weapons and other military equipment.
Despite a Sept. 5, 2014 ceasefire, clashes have continued in eastern Ukraine in and around the city of Donetsk between the Ukrainian National Guard and pro-Russian rebels. Russia denied sending troops to aid the rebels, as had been alleged by NATO and the Ukrainian government. An estimated 2,600 people lost their lives over the last five months. On Sunday, despite a ceasefire, six more
were killed and 15 were injured. Shelling continued Monday at the governmentheld airport in Donetsk.
About 1,300 troops from 15 NATO countries have begun training in western Ukraine, near Lviv, a city on the Polish-Ukrainian border.
Chayko, acting as the spokesman for Arthur Andersen, Inc., said that the delegation that came to Ottawa last week was looking for defence weapons.
“Ukraine National Guard is looking to expand,” Chayko said. “There are 30,000 members right now. Their system is different than ours, as the National Guard looks after both military and national policing responsibilities. They are on the front lines. They are also bound to protect Ukraine’s five nuclear stations.”
Ukraine is looking to increase the size of the National Guard by 10 per cent immediately, with the goal of doubling it in size in the upcoming years.
According to Chayko, Ar-
thur Andersen Defence Consulting has assisted Ukraine in the past.
“We renewed the relationship last year, prior to the conflict arising,” he said.
The company does not supply arms to countries like Ukraine. Instead, it acts as a consulting firm that will help source the equipment that is needed.
“We do not directly supply any equipment,” said Chayko. “We assist countries in purchasing very good equipment for the very best prices. We access equipment around the world.”
The company is a certified NATO supplier.
While the company sources out equipment and matches sellers with buyers, there are also restrictions. Ukraine, for example, is not a NATO member country. There are other countries that are not approved to purchase certain weaponry.
One of the challenges for the company in Ukraine conflict is that many countries do not want to jeopardize their relationship with Russia by selling arms to or providing aid to Ukraine.
“We have the outspoken support of Canada and NATO to supply equipment to Ukraine by way of sale,” Chayko said. “But there are some countries that will not supply to Ukraine because they do not want to damage their relationship with Russia.”
Chayko cited Italy as an example of a country that would not participate in arms sales to Ukraine.
Canadian equipment, however, is intriguing to Ukraine, who wants to arm its National Guard with western equipment and technology. While Canada has an outstanding reputation based on its military personnel, Chayko says Canada’s tech-
Gary Chayko, left, and Arthur Andersen, middle, were honoured by the Ukrainian National Guard. Arthur Andersen Defence Consulting, Inc., brought the delegation from Ukraine to Canada to connect them with sellers of military equipment that can be used in their conflict as they defend themselves from attacks made by pro-Russian rebels. With Chayko and Andersen are Valerii Komolov, Dmitri Stefanik and Oleg Kardinal. G A Ry CO U lO m be p H OTO
nology is second to none.
“One thing that people do not realize is that we have some spectacular equipment,” Chayko said. “It has withstood the tests in Afghanistan. The reports coming back were that the Canadians were the best equipped country in Afghanistan. Some of the things our guys were carrying really impressed people around the world.”
Arthur Andersen Defence Consulting was eager to become involved with Ukraine in their quest for growth and upgrade. Chayko says the company saw it as an opportunity for Canadian firms.
“We brought the delegation from Ukraine in and introduced them to a large number of Canadian companies,” Chayko said. “Our role will be to assist them, and give our views on what they should or should not purchase. We would arrange the financing and controlling, and provide logistical support. It’s prudent and fair that Canadian companies get a shot at contributing our equipment.”
While Arthur Andersen is involved in bringing multiple parties to the table, Chayko said that the Canadian Government has the final say in whether or not a sale can be made.
“The Government of Canada views these deals as business transactions between Ukraine and Canadian industry,” Chayko said. “They
will decide what items can be sold, and what the restrictions are on equipment. It’s all a choice of the Government as to what that country can buy.”
Ottawa West-Nepean MP and Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird was also involved in discussions and meetings.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper recently committed $4 million to support Ukraine’s military, as well as NATO initiatives in the Baltics. Canada had earlier contributed $5 million in what experts call non-lethal aid, which includes sleeping bags, first aid kits, and body armour. In addition, Canada will spend $1 million to improve Ukrainian military command and control, communications systems and computers. Prime Minister Harper also announced that $3 million will be provided to three NATO Centres of Excellence, which are located in the Baltic region.
NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said last week it is up to each alliance country to decide whether or not to provide military equipment to Ukraine.
Before the delegation returned to Ukraine Thursday, Chayko and Andersen were honoured in Manotick. Valerii Komolov, Dmitri Stefanik and Oleg Kardinal presented them with the honour. For Chayko, it was an emotional moment. Chayko’s family emigrated from Ukraine to Canada in
1884. In more than a century, he was the first member of his family to return there.
“To get decorated by the country of your heritage is extremely exciting,” he said. “It humbles you in a way you can’t describe.”
Chayko said that his family had found documents that earlier after arriving in Canada, their family name had been changed. Originally, their surname was Chaika.
“We don’t know how or why it was changed,” he said. “Maybe somewhere along the line someone pronounced it or filled out a form incorrectly.”
Regardless of the change in his family’s name, the honour inspired and validated Chayko and Andersen for their efforts.
“It made us both feel like we have done something,” said Chayko. “Our efforts have been noted. This work was not just for commercial profit – we did something for Ukraine. They wanted to show their appreciation.”
The next step for Andersen and Chayko is to go back to Ukraine to meet with the National Guard. At that time, they will determine their military equipment needs, find what is available, and then get moving. Chayko said that he does not expect a quick resolution to the conflict in Ukraine.
“We’re also doing work in other countries,” Chayko said. “But this one will take time.”
Gary Chayko was appreciative to receive an honour from the Ukrainian National Guard. His family emigrated from Ukraine to Canada in 1884. “To get decorated by the country of your heritage is extremely exciting,” he said. “It humbles you in a way you can’t describe.”
A&W (both locations)
Anabia
Barley Mow
Barrhaven Legion
Booster Juice
Boston Pizza
Broadway
Canadian Tire Gas Bar
Circle K – Strandherd
Circle K – Greenbank
Fallowfield Pharmasave
Green Street Medical Centre
Halibut House
I.D.A.
Jolly Taxpayer
www.barrhavenindependent.ca
Minto Rec Centre
Nepean Sportsplex
Petro
Petro
Petro
Prince of Wales Manor
Quickie – Jockvale
Quickie – Rideaucrest
Rexall (both locations)
Royal Bank