Marianne Wilkinson Councillor, Kanata North NEW APARTMENT COMPLEX AT WARD COUNCIL MEETING
Kanata North Ward Council Meeting, Thursday, December 6th, 6:30 pm, Mlacak Centre Representatives of the Lepine Group will be at the next Ward Council Meeting to provide an overview of their proposal to construct a group of 4 apartment buildings and a recreational building in the Kanata Town Centre area between the storm water pond adjacent to the Queensway and the new Senior Citizen Building presently under construction at Campeau across from Knudson. This project is in conformity with the Kanata Official Plan by having all parking underground with the exception of visitor parking, providing a landscaped, parklike area connecting the buildings, including onsite recreational facilities and possibly a childcare facility. The four buildings vary in height from 9 to 11 storeys, making them lower than the Atrium apartment building on Teron Road. Another development that will be discussed is for an 8 storey Marriot Residence Inn at 413 March Road. The location is the triangle of land just north of the railway and south of Station Road (the road across from the end of Carling Ave). This hotel was originally approved in 2001 but with the downturn in the technology sector, it wasnt constructed. They have now applied to reactivate the proposal as it was originally approved. The hotel would have 128 units and a future restaurant. My Councillors report will include the transit proposals, update on budget activities and their impact on Kanata North, as well as construction updates and other city activities. Residents will also have an opportunity to announce upcoming events, make comments and ask questions. Everyone is welcome to attend. Due to another commitment that I have, the meeting will start 30 minutes earlier than usual.
WARD OFFICE
The Kanata North Ward office is now open in the Mlacak Centre. Staff will be in the office on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 am until 3 pm. I will be working from the office whenever I dont have to be at City Hall for meetings. If you wish to meet with me, please call the City Hall office to book a time  which can also be on Saturdays or evenings to suit your schedule.
BUDGET COMMENTS
Thank you to those who came out on the 22nd in the snowstorm to comment on the budget. What were hearing is that no one wants to see services cut but many would like to see more efficiencies in city operations. There are already $20 million in efficiency targets in the budget as tabled. To reach a 0% tax increase on the operational side, excluding police, would require a further $59 million in savings. Achieving this will be very difficult, but Councillors, including myself, are doing a detailed study of the budget to see what can be done without hindering services.
FLU SHOTS
Ive had my flu shot  have you? The flu season is here and having a flu shot will reduce the possibility of getting the flu. The City runs free flu clinics or you can get the shot from your doctor. The remaining clinics in Kanata are on Tuesday, Dec. 11th at Holy Trinity and Tuesday, Jan. 15th at All Saints. The clinic runs from 3:30 pm  8:30 pm.
REMINDERS
Check the city website to contribute to the new official plan, to sign up for email notices when winter parking restrictions are in effect, to enter the Green Bin High School Challenge, to find out about City meetings as well as details on property tax deferrals and snow clearing assistance for seniors and the disabled.
Serving the residents and businesses in Kanata North
To receive the Kanata North Newsletter, deal with a concern or make a suggestion, contact me at 613-580-2474, email Marianne.Wilkinson@ottawa.ca or reach me through www.mariannewilkinson.com