Kelly: Drop on in twice a month

Happy New Year to all residents of West Carleton-March. I hope everyone was able to enjoy time with friends and family and celebrate the holidays. 

With the Christmas season now well behind us, we’re now refocused on addressing the many issues facing rural residents at the City of Ottawa. 

As part of my commitment to provide more consultation opportunities for residents, I will be hosting open office hours on the first and third Tuesday of each month from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. My office is located at the West Carleton Client Services Centre, 5670 Carp Road in Kinburn.

This is an opportunity for residents to come and speak directly with me about any municipal issue they want to talk about. Of course, we still encourage people to reach out and book a time to meet but will be offering this as an option.

Our 2025 Open House Calendar Through April (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

• Feb. 4, 2025; Feb. 18
• March 4, 2025; March 18
• April 1, 2015; April 15

I look forward to talking with you about your issues and concerns.

Potential BESS Proposal

(first published Jan. 18)

Last week, I received calls and emails from several people in the Thomas A. Dolan Parkway and Marchurst Road area regarding a proposal for a Battery Energy Storage System facility. What prompted this is the presence of surveyors in the area. Some residents approached these workers and were told that what was taking place was for the siting of a battery energy storage facility, specifically, an alternate site for the Fitzroy BESS project. 

In response, I met with members of Evolugen last week (Jan 10) and we discussed this work taking place and the perceived lack of consultation with those in the community.

I have long urged the company involved with this project to be as open and transparent with residents as possible and will continue to do that as more work takes place because, as we have seen, there is much chatter about what exactly is happening. I can tell you that the answer to the question of “what exactly is the plan here,” is not currently available.

During our meeting I was informed that the survey work taking place near Marchurst was part of the due diligence process that Evolugen is undertaking to determine whether particular plots of land are feasible for their proposed project. During my original meetings with Evolugen after they were awarded a BESS contract, I made sure to underscore the importance of looking for a new location as opposition to the Fitzroy BESS system was strong, so I am happy to see that they have taken this advice and are doing work to determine if there is a more appropriate site. I have emphasized that simple communications should be the first thought whenever any activities, such as surveys, take place.

I am no different than the residents of Ward 5. I see these things happening and I want answers right away. The unfortunate reality is that, presently, those answers are not forthcoming as Evolugen continues its due diligence and is in discussions with multiple landowners. I have been assured that once there are firmer commitments about a new site, or about work on the original site, that the company will engage more fully with the community to present their plan moving forward.

The company has committed to undertaking a serious and meaningful public consultation process if or when a new site is selected, and I am committed to being there and listening to the feedback from all residents of West Carleton-March, because it is through the opinions of the residents that I make my determinations and decisions. I am hopeful to give an update with more details and have encouraged the Evolugen group to complete their due diligence quickly so that they may begin presenting information to residents.

As always, I want to hear directly from residents. Please reach out to my office to schedule a time to meet or provide feedback.