CASINO DEBATE CONTINUES

I am pleased that last week Council moved towards a more open process on the location of any future casino in Ottawa. The motion to consider only the location at the Rideau Raceway was referred to a Committee Meeting on August 26 th where a revised motion will be debated. The revision is to support but restrict gaming operations at the Raceway to what is presently permitted on that site (1,250 slot machines and 21 tables). Ontario Lottery and Gaming (OLG) could then continue their procurement process for another site. This will require approval by the Ontario Cabinet. At my request City Staff, in doing an economic analysis of casinos, will also look at the funds that Rideau Carleton will receive from the Province, under a plan for all Raceways. To be completed this September, this plan will replace funds formerly received from slot operations at all Raceways in Ontario. In my view it is not the Citys role to determine or support activities to help fund any business in fact it is questionable if this would be permitted under existing provincial legislation. Residents can continue to provide their views on casinos and on the process to their Councillor and the Mayor. Individuals and groups can speak to the Committee on August 26 for 5 minutes each, as well. Thank you to those who have already contacted me with views on this issue, including information on casinos and comments on the process.

UPDATE YOUR IMMUNIZATION

Today there is an excellent and effective immunization program for measles. This wasnt available when I was a child and, at the age of 5, I had a very serious case of measles. I remember being in a darkened room unable to concentrate on anything. My mother said she could hear my struggling breathing throughout the house. Many children in other parts of the world die from measles and there is absolutely no reason for that to happen to a Canadian child today. Ottawa Public Health (OPH) and the Childrens Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) are encouraging residents to ensure their measles immunizations are up to date following the confirmation of one case of measles in Gatineau. OPH was notified of the measles case in an unimmunized child who was seen at CHEO. The source of the case is suspected to be from international travel. This case highlights the need for continued vigilance, not only for measles, but for all other diseases for which you can be immunized.

LAC-MEGANTIC
Our hearts have gone out to the residents of Lac-Mgantic as they struggle to deal with the terrible train disaster that has taken so many lives and destroyed much of the core of their town including their public library and archives. City Council on July 17 th

approved a motion that I submitted to encourage residents of the City of Ottawa and Members of City Council to support the Town through donations to the Red Cross. I have sent a donation and I know a number of residents of Kanata North have also done so. Thanks to all who come to the support of others in their time of need.

LIGHT RAIL ROUTE TOWARD THE WEST

Council has approved the environmental assessment for the route of the extension of the LRT from Tunneys Pasture to Baseline together with direction to continue discussions with the NCC and make adjustments within the budget allocation.

A PICNIC IN THE RAIN

Despite early rain showers, the Kanata North Picnic was enjoyed by more than 1500, with 1800 hamburgers and hot dogs served, loads of cotton candy, sno-cones and freezies and well-fed animals in the petting zoo. Crash the Clown made incredible balloon animals and helped round up the ducks who escaped from the petting zoo. Thanks to my staff and the volunteers who coped with heat and rain postponements to bring another great event to everyone. Reminder that the closure of the on-ramp going west from March Rd. onto 417 has been moved to July 26th and will be in effect for approximately 12 weeks. Time Capsules will be available at the Kanata Dragons Party on July 28 th from 4 7 pm on the Mitel soccer field.