PARK AND SPORTSFIELD NAMING POLICY RECOGNIZES VOLUNTEERS

In Kanata we have a long tradition of honouring community volunteers by naming parks, or recreation facilities after them. For example, the Jack Charron Arena and Hope Cloutier Park both recognize people who made significant contributions to our community through their volunteer efforts. Given the importance of volunteers in the life of our community, this is a tradition we want to continue.

What is also important is that there be a process in place to ensure that all of us have a chance to have input into what the parks or recreation facilities in our community are called. Councillors or community group leaders may feel strongly that a name should be changed, but the voices of people who use the facility being renamed are the ones most affected by a name change.

If we rename a park or recreation facility, we want to be sure we are not losing a name that is important to the community. As an example, the old name could also be one that recognizing a significant individual or part of the community’s history.

It is also important that the renaming of city facilities not create problems for emergency services personnel. If there are several facilities or streets with the same name, there is a danger that those responding to a 911 call will go to the wrong location.

With a process for naming parks and recreation facilities we are able to avoid these problems, while recognizing people who have made a contribution to our community.

TO START A BUSINESS GO TO THE LIBRARY?

According to Business Week Magazine, “An increasing number of would-be entrepreneurs are turning to their local public libraries for help in every aspect of launching their businesses.”

Much of the information people need to start a business is available at the public library. This ranges from Statistics Canada information that can be a valuable source of marking information to access to electronic and hard copy versions of business publications. At the Centrepointe branch there is a business services librarian. Information sessions are held in libraries across the City of Ottawa.

To get more information you can go to:

http://www.biblioottawalibrary.ca/experience/business/business_e.cfm

WATER EFFICIENCY KITS AVAILABLE

To help people reduce their water bills the City is distributing indoor water efficiency kits. Kits can be picked up at any Client Service Centre and come with installation instructions. In Kanata, kits can be obtained at 580 Terry Fox. More information can be obtained at http://ottawa.ca/city_services/water/waterwise/programs/eff_kits/index_en.html

When people are able to reduce the amount of water they consume, all of us benefit. Improved water efficiency reduces the need for costly expansions to our water and sewer systems.

NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR CYCLING AWARD

Every year the City of Ottawa’s Roads and Cycling Advisory Committee presents the Bruce Timmermans Cycling Awards for promoting cycling as a viable, environmentally friendly mode of transportation. Two awards are presented – one for individuals and one for businesses, organizations or government departments.

Work of past recipients has included advocating for cycling and supportive facilities, teaching cycling skills and/or encouraging others to start cycling. If you know of an individual or organizations that deserves recognition, nominations can be submitted to travelwise@ottawa.ca. More information about the award is available at ottawa.ca/travelwise.

WORKING FULL-TIME FOR KANATA SOUTH

I appreciate the chance to hear from you about issues affecting our community. You can reach me at 613-580-2752 (office), 613-580-2762 (fax), or peggy.feltmate@ottawa.ca