Welcome to our Carleton Heights and Area Residents Association (CHARA)

Carleton Heights and Area Residents Association is a volunteer-run community association. We work with residents, local business and City officials to grow a healthy, safe and engaged community.

You’re invited to attend the CHARA AGM held remotely Tuesday October 8th, 2024.

Please RSVP to attend the 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) by sending us an email at info@ourchara.ca. We’ll reply with an email to confirm your virtual seat at the AGM scheduled from 6:45 – 8:45 p.m. on Tuesday, October 8th 2024. On the day, we’ll send you the Zoom link to join us. At the AGM, we’ll review the past year’s activities, confirm the Board Directors for the coming year, and welcome Councillor Brockington to share his thoughts prior to opening the floor for any questions.

Send us an email at info@ourchara.ca if you have interest in joining the Board or helping us in our activities and events, such as the annual CHARA BBQ or supervising the Carleton Heights community rink. We want to hear from you.

We are saddened by the loss of Michael Mack, a past-president and long-time Board member. Mike was the unwavering lead of the Carleton Heights Rink, expertly tending to the ice for families to enjoy all winter long. Mike’s dedication mirrored the efforts of his father who was an avid contributor to CHARA and our community. Our deepest sympathy to his family and friends. He will be missed.

Into the Night Garden Event Oct 17

Thursday, October 17, 2024 from 7:30-8:30 p.m. at the City View United Church (map, 6 Epworth Avenue) join Judith Cox, Master Gardener, who will take attendees on a journey exploring the garden at night with the Nepean Horticultural Society.

Thanksgiving Dinner Event Oct 26

Carleton Memorial United Church extends a warm invitation to you, your friends, and your family for an unforgettable evening of fellowship and delicious food. We cordially invite you to join us on Saturday, October 26, at 5:30 pm for a sumptuous turkey dinner, complete with all the trimmings. This festive gathering promises to be a delightful experience that brings our community together in celebration and gratitude. Reserve your tickets with Erin Linnen at erin.linnen18@gmail.com and secure your spot. Contact us soon, availability is limited, and this is a popular event.

More about CHARA

We monitor and report through monthly meetings and minutes, meetings on planning and development proposals, by-law changes and organizes events to bring our community together and support a healthy, safe and sustainable growing community. 

CHARA promotes and makes representation to authorities, for example, the City of Ottawa, the Planning and Housing Committee and the Committee of Adjustment on planning and development. Our association hosts an annual BBQ, holiday events, yard sales and is the main force behind the ever popular, community outdoor ice rink. CHARA depends on volunteers’ good nature (residents and businesses) in order to provide a safe and happy environment.

Our funding comes from contributions from the City of Ottawa, especially the rink, private donations and community events. 

Bytown Fire Brigade driving up in style!
Entertainment provided by Junkyard Symphony at CHARA’s 2023 Community BBQ

News

We encourage residents to stay up to date on City of Ottawa events, surveys and consultations at ENGAGE OTTAWA.

Current Engagement Opportunities

Municipal elections in Ottawa Share your experience participating in Ottawa’s municipal elections!

City Budget 2025 It’s your city, your budget, and we want to hear from you!

New Zoning By-law The City of Ottawa is developing a new comprehensive Zoning By-law for approval.

Residential Protective Plumbing Program (RPPP) and By-law Review The RPPP provides financial assistance for property owners to install protective plumbing devices that help reduce the likelihood of basement flooding and prevent storm water from entering residential properties.

Sewer Use By-law review The City of Ottawa is conducting a review of its Sewer Use By-law.

City of Ottawa Older Adult Plan Consultation The City is engaging in the development of a new Older Adult Plan.

Climate Resiliency Strategy The City is developing a Climate Resiliency Strategy to assess how Ottawa is vulnerable to climate change.

Review of special event by-laws The City is reviewing the by-laws for celebration, recreation, or expression, and special events.

City of Ottawa Service Reviews The City of Ottawa welcomes new and innovative ideas to offer services in a different way or to be more cost-effective.

Affordable Housing We are looking for suggestions to help us meet our goal of creating a city that has affordable housing and is more liveable for all.

Connected city The City is working to increase connectivity, reliability, safety and accessibility to meet Ottawa’s mobility needs.