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Reimagining Rosemère: Residents Called to Help Shape the Town’s Next Landmark District

Maria Diamantis
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Reimagining Rosemère: Residents Called to Help Shape the Town’s Next Landmark District

The Town of Rosemère is calling on its citizens to actively participate in a public consultation meeting scheduled for June 3, focusing on the future of the Pôle régional—the area surrounding Place Rosemère. This significant event will offer residents a chance to contribute to the development of a visionary urban plan aimed at transforming the space into a multifunctional, inclusive, and sustainable living environment.

The consultation will center on the proposed Plan particulier d’urbanisme (PPU) for the Pôle régional, which includes the quadrilateral defined by Labelle and Bouthillier boulevards, montée Sanche, and Highway 640. This area is currently home to the Place Rosemère shopping centre and surrounding infrastructure, but the town hopes to reshape it into a modern, community-focused hub that aligns with both local needs and broader regional guidelines.

The in-person event will take place on Tuesday, June 3, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Lévis-Fortier Hall of the Externat Sacré-Cœur, located at 535 rue Lefrançois in Rosemère. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. for participant check-in. Attendance is free, but registration is mandatory and must be completed by May 30 by emailing communications@ville.rosemere.qc.ca or by calling 450-621-3500, extension 1249.

The evening will include a formal presentation followed by interactive workshops where participants can share their views on key urban planning aspects. These will touch on the proposed layout of the regional hub, land use and building function, public spaces, mobility infrastructure, architectural integration, and the projected steps moving forward. Urban planning professionals and citizen engagement specialists will be on hand to guide and moderate the discussions, ensuring everyone’s input is heard and documented.

Importantly, the Town of Rosemère is making a special effort to include younger voices in the conversation. Residents aged 12 to 17 are warmly encouraged to participate, with a designated “youth table” being set up during the workshop segment to allow them to engage with the issues in a way that speaks to their experiences and expectations. For families attending with small children, a play area will be available upon request. This space will include toys and craft materials to entertain young ones while their parents take part in the consultation. However, the town advises that this is not a formal childcare service and that parents remain responsible for their children during the event.

For those unable to attend in person, the consultation process will also be made available online. Starting at 7:00 p.m. on June 3—the same time as the live meeting—and running until June 11, residents will be able to participate through a digital platform. The link to this online consultation will be posted on the town’s official website and shared across its various digital platforms to ensure maximum accessibility.

Town officials emphasize that this consultation is not merely a symbolic gesture but a vital component of the planning process. “This is an opportunity for the people of Rosemère to take an active role in shaping a future neighborhood that reflects their priorities—whether that’s improved walkability, more green spaces, or better architectural cohesion,” said a spokesperson for the municipality. “The Pôle régional has the potential to become a true hub of daily life, and we need the input of our community to make it happen.”

As urban development continues to reshape cities and towns across Quebec, Rosemère’s initiative stands out for its emphasis on community engagement, sustainability, and inclusivity. The consultation aims not only to present a vision but to co-create it—putting the power of planning into the hands of the people who will live, work, and raise families in the space being designed.

The Town invites all residents—young and old—to seize this opportunity to be heard and to help guide the future of one of the most important development areas in Rosemère. For more information, to register, or to participate online starting June 3, residents are encouraged to visit the Town of Rosemère’s official website or follow the latest updates on social media.

Fire, Family & Community Spirit: Deux-Montagnes/Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac Fire Station Hosts Open House

Maria Diamantis
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Fire, Family & Community Spirit: Deux-Montagnes/Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac Fire Station Hosts Open House

A sun-drenched Sunday turned into a hands-on lesson in heroism and fire safety as hundreds of families descended on the Deux-Montagnes fire station for its first-ever open house event. With children in plastic helmets, wide-eyed toddlers exploring fire trucks, and crowds gathered around live demonstrations, the event offered a rare and memorable glimpse into the life of local firefighters.

Held on May 25 at 206 8th Avenue, the open house by the intermunicipal fire service of Deux-Montagnes and Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac brought together citizens of all ages in a spirited celebration of public safety and community connection.

From the start, the atmosphere was festive and engaging. A full ceremonial guard greeted dignitaries and visitors in a show of pride and tradition, setting a respectful tone for the day. The event was then quickly ignited — metaphorically — with hands-on activities and dramatic displays.

Among the biggest crowd-pleasers were the live vehicle extrication demonstrations, where firefighters simulated the rescue of crash victims using hydraulic cutting tools. As sparks flew and heavy tools snapped through metal, parents and children alike looked on in awe.

Meanwhile, children were delighted to meet the department’s oversized firehouse mascot “Boucane,” who handed out high-fives and helped break the ice for the youngest visitors. Another standout moment was the firefighter training obstacle course, designed to let kids test their strength and agility — and, for some, fuel dreams of one day joining the brigade.

Inside the trucks, young guests put on helmets and climbed into the driver’s seat while parents captured the moments with proud smiles and smartphones.

Beyond the thrills, the day was also deeply educational. Interactive booths, scale models, and a realistic smoke trailer gave visitors valuable insights into fire hazards, safe evacuation techniques, and the intense realities of an active fire scene.

Aerial ladder trucks towered over the crowd, food trucks hummed, and laughter echoed down 8th Avenue as families mingled with firefighters who proudly explained their tools, routines, and commitment to protecting lives. More than just a showcase of gear and skill, the event served as a powerful reminder of the bond between emergency services and the communities they serve.

The fire service, which covers a population of nearly 40,000 across 16 square kilometers, responds to over 1,200 emergency calls each year — a statistic that underscores both the scale of their responsibility and the importance of public understanding.

Given the enthusiasm and turnout, many are already calling for the event to become an annual tradition — one that celebrates not only firefighting, but community, connection, and the everyday heroes who quietly keep their neighbours safe.

New Synthetic Turf Installed at Parc Régional Soccer Fields in Boisbriand

Maria Diamantis
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New Synthetic Turf Installed at Parc Régional Soccer Fields in Boisbriand

The City of Boisbriand has completed a major upgrade to its recreational infrastructure with the full replacement of the synthetic turf at the Parc Régional soccer fields. After 15 years of heavy use, the aging surface reached the end of its lifecycle and was replaced in May 2025 as part of a $750,000 investment under the city’s three-year capital works program.

“This complete replacement was essential to maintaining the quality and safety of our sports facilities,” said Mayor Christine Beaudette. “We are committed to offering all users a secure environment for athletic activities. The municipal council and I extend our sincere thanks to the Public Works team—specifically the Parks and Green Spaces division—for their dedication and efficiency throughout this project.”

The initiative not only enhances playability and safety for local athletes but also reflects Boisbriand’s long-term commitment to sustainability. The materials used in the new surface, including rubber granules made from approximately 30,000 recycled tires, were selected with the environment in mind. These components can be reused for up to two or three additional field replacements, significantly reducing the environmental footprint of future upgrades.

This refurbishment project is one of the key actions outlined in Boisbriand’s Parks and Green Spaces Master Plan for 2025–2035, which is available for consultation online at boisbriand.ca and in print at the municipal library.

Lorraine Honours an Exceptional Volunteer: Yves Carrières Receives City Medal of Distinction

Maria Diamantis
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Lorraine Honours an Exceptional Volunteer: Yves Carrières Receives City Medal of Distinction

The City of Lorraine has paid heartfelt tribute to one of its most devoted citizens, Mr. Yves Carrières, whose remarkable volunteer work and unwavering spirit of service have left a lasting impression on the community.

In a special ceremony, Mr. Carrières was awarded the City of Lorraine’s Medal of Honour, a distinction reserved for individuals whose contributions significantly enrich civic life. As part of the celebration, he was also invited to sign the city’s livre d’or (Golden Book), a symbolic gesture that permanently inscribes his name into the town’s legacy.

Mr. Carrières is widely recognized for his generosity, integrity, and community-minded leadership. Through years of tireless volunteerism, he has played a pivotal role in strengthening the social fabric of Lorraine, creating bridges between residents and nurturing a spirit of solidarity.

Mayor and council members expressed deep appreciation for his work, noting that Mr. Carrières embodies the very best values of the city—compassion, dedication, and civic pride.

In honouring Mr. Carrières, Lorraine not only celebrates an individual but also reaffirms its commitment to recognizing those who make a difference through quiet acts of service. His impact serves as an inspiration to current and future generations, reminding all that true community is built on the efforts of those who give without expecting anything in return.

Blainville Shines a Spotlight on Unsung Public Works Heroes During National Week

Maria Diamantis
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Blainville Shines a Spotlight on Unsung Public Works Heroes During National Week

In honour of National Public Works Week, the City of Blainville opened the doors of its municipal workshops to showcase the essential yet often overlooked work of its public works professionals. With acclaimed singer-songwriter and TPQuébec spokesperson Sara Dufour in attendance, the weeklong celebration brought energy, gratitude, and public recognition to a sector vital to everyday life.

Exploring the Trades Behind the City’s Pulse

Visitors—including fellow municipal staff—were offered an immersive look into the many skilled roles that keep Blainville running. Demonstrations covered everything from aqueduct and sewer work to road maintenance, park and green space care, and foremanship. Those eager for hands-on experience had the rare opportunity to operate heavy vehicles under supervision, including snowplows and excavators.

In one particularly engaging moment, participants watched as a colleague carefully maneuvered a mechanical shovel—highlighting not only the skill but also the responsibility tied to the role. For many, it was a chance to gain a deeper appreciation of the day-to-day demands faced by their public works peers.

A Celebration Powered by Music and Admiration

Sara Dufour, known for her spirited performances and dynamic personality, brought her signature warmth and authenticity to the event. As spokesperson for TPQuébec, she addressed attendees with heartfelt praise:

“You never quit—working in snowstorms, heatwaves, whatever comes your way. Because of you, people can get to work, have clean water, access public buildings and enjoy our parks. Honestly, you’re like behind-the-scenes superheroes.”

Dufour’s presence and praise resonated deeply, reaffirming the value of these workers in the public imagination—not merely as technicians, but as guardians of civic functionality.

Changing the Narrative Around Public Works

Roch Arbour, Director of Blainville’s Public Works Department and President of TPQuébec, emphasized the importance of visibility and appreciation for his sector:

“The image of public works is evolving. We see it across social media, where certain functions like roadwork and snow removal are gaining visibility. But there’s so much more to what we do—everything we touch impacts citizens’ well-being and the city’s efficiency.”

That broader understanding was echoed by Blainville’s mayor, Liza Poulin, who drew a powerful metaphor between public works and the human body:

“Public works is like the arms and legs of our city. Without these women and men, Blainville simply couldn’t function. They are essential to our quality of life.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

Beyond celebration, the event carried a strong recruitment component. With an aging workforce and increasing demand for skilled labor, Blainville hopes to inspire the next generation to consider careers in public works.

Chantal Gauvreau, the city’s Director General, underlined the importance of investing in the future:

“We need to prepare for succession, and our current employees are our best ambassadors—especially when it comes to showing young people the wide range of careers available in this field.”

The open house at the municipal workshops served as both an appreciation event and a dynamic career fair. Attendees were encouraged to engage with workers, ask questions, and explore various tools and technologies used daily.

A Week to Remember, a Workforce to Celebrate

From sweeping streets to laying underground pipes, maintaining green spaces, and clearing snow in the dead of winter, public works employees are the invisible force behind a city’s livability. Blainville’s tribute—marked by praise from artists, officials, and peers—sent a clear message: these workers are not just maintaining infrastructure, they are building community resilience.

Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac Grapples with Spring Water Discoloration

Maria Diamantis
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Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac Grapples with Spring Water Discoloration

The municipality of Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac is responding to public concern following several recent episodes of discolored tap water affecting residents over the past few weeks. Mayor François Robillard acknowledged the situation in a statement and outlined both immediate interventions and long-term plans aimed at improving water quality in the community.

According to municipal officials, the issue tends to reoccur each spring, a seasonal phenomenon linked to increased water usage. However, this year’s discoloration appears to be more pronounced than in previous years, prompting authorities to accelerate their search for solutions.

Technical Interventions Underway

The city is working with experts from the École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS), Polytechnique Montréal, and consultants from Veolia Canada to address the issue at its source. One key intervention has been the replacement of a filtering medium at the municipal water treatment plant—part of a series of upgrades to the facility’s infrastructure.

While these adjustments are expected to improve water clarity, municipal officials caution that residents may not see immediate changes. Mayor Robillard expressed hope for noticeable improvements by the end of the current week but emphasized the need for patience as the system stabilizes.

Spring Surge in Consumption Adds Pressure

The municipality has identified a spike in residential water consumption as a contributing factor to the discoloration. Warmer weather, particularly over the weekend of May 3–4, led to a marked increase in demand, as residents began activities such as lawn watering and pool filling.

The surge in usage increases the flow through the water network, which can stir up natural sediments in the pipes and result in discolored water. City officials advise residents who encounter such water to let it run until it clears before using it for drinking or cooking. Additional information is available on the city’s website.

Major Investments Planned

Beyond emergency measures, the city has committed to long-term investments aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future. Over the coming years, Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac plans to invest $15 million in water infrastructure upgrades.

This figure includes $7.5 million from the provincial PRIMEAU 2023 program to construct a new potable water reservoir. An additional $6.9 million will go toward upgrading treatment and distribution facilities, with funding from the Québec gas tax and contribution program (TECQ 2024–2028).

Community Cooperation Critical

In his statement, Mayor Robillard expressed regret over the disruption and stressed the importance of public cooperation in preserving water quality. Measures such as tightening regulations on water use, increasing the frequency of preventive maintenance, and promoting responsible consumption habits are all part of the city’s strategy moving forward.

“We recognize the concerns this has caused among residents and want to reassure the community that every effort is being made to resolve the issue,” said Robillard. “Our team is working diligently, and we are confident that with collective responsibility, we will see improvements soon.”

The mayor called on citizens to respect municipal guidelines for outdoor water use, particularly during designated time slots for watering, in order to avoid further stress on the system.

As Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac works to modernize its infrastructure and address immediate concerns, the situation highlights the complex balance between seasonal demand, aging systems, and the need for sustainable water management in growing communities.

Night Work on De Gaulle Viaduct to Cause Lane Closures Through June

Maria Diamantis
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Night Work on De Gaulle Viaduct to Cause Lane Closures Through June

Nighttime repair work is now underway on the De Gaulle Viaduct, which spans Highway 640 in Sainte-Thérèse. The project, scheduled to last through the end of June 2025, will result in recurring traffic disruptions each week from Sunday evening to Friday morning.

According to municipal officials, work will take place nightly between 9:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. One of the two lanes on the viaduct will remain open at all times, ensuring partial circulation over the structure. However, Highway 640 itself will face full closure in one direction at a time, with drivers being rerouted via boulevard De Gaulle and entrance 26.

Pedestrians will still be able to cross the viaduct using the remaining open sidewalk. Cyclists, however, must dismount and walk their bikes through the construction zone. Dynamic signage will be in place throughout the site to guide and warn travelers. Officials urge the public to exercise caution while moving through the area, especially during work hours.

This rehabilitation effort is part of a broader regional infrastructure maintenance program aimed at improving the safety and longevity of aging overpasses. While the precise nature of the repairs has not been publicly detailed, such works typically include resurfacing, structural reinforcement, and drainage upgrades.

City engineers caution that the schedule is subject to change depending on weather conditions or unforeseen operational delays. Commuters are encouraged to check for updates before setting out and to plan alternate routes when possible.

For the latest information on closures and detours, residents can consult the municipal website or local traffic advisory platforms.

From Soccer Fields to Soup Kitchens: Rosemère Celebrates Its Changemakers

Maria Diamantis
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From Soccer Fields to Soup Kitchens: Rosemère Celebrates Its Changemakers

The city of Rosemère was filled with pride and emotion on Saturday evening, May 3, as residents gathered to celebrate the recipients of the 2025 Honoured Citizen Awards—an event that has become a cherished local tradition since its inception in 2017. This year’s honourees, comprising three individuals and one community organization, were recognized for their exceptional dedication to improving life in Rosemère across a wide spectrum of activities.

Held during a formal ceremony, the evening saw an outpouring of admiration and gratitude for the awardees, each of whom was invited on stage to receive a certificate, a trophy, and the heartfelt applause of a community they’ve long served. In keeping with tradition, each recipient was also invited to sign Rosemère’s prestigious Golden Book, an honour reserved for those who have left a lasting impact on the town.

“Tonight, we have the privilege of celebrating some very special Rosemerites and a wonderful community organization whose determination, energy, kindness and leadership make them the pride of our town,” said Mayor Eric Westram in his address. “To our cherished Honoured Citizens, you are our most important ambassadors, and you have gone above and beyond in elevating the stature of our town.”

Among those honoured was Éric Ledoux, recognized in the Sports category for his unwavering dedication to youth soccer. A fixture on the soccer fields of Rosemère and the surrounding region for years, Ledoux has not only coached but also mentored generations of young athletes, instilling in them values of teamwork, perseverance, and community spirit.

Alain Brunet, honoured in the Humanitarian category, was applauded for his long-standing commitment to volunteerism, both in Rosemère and at the broader MRC Thérèse-De Blainville level. His behind-the-scenes efforts have supported countless initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents, particularly the most vulnerable.

The Community category award was presented to Meals on Wheels, a cornerstone of local support for more than four decades. The organization, powered largely by volunteers, has provided hot meals, companionship, and a sense of security to Rosemère’s elderly and isolated populations—a role that has only grown more vital in recent years.

This year’s Yvan Deschênes Award, named after one of the town’s most influential former mayors, went to Pierre Hardy. A tireless advocate for youth engagement, Hardy has spent decades working with young people in Rosemère and surrounding communities, fostering their development through education, mentorship, and outreach. His work has touched countless lives and helped shape the future of the town one young person at a time.

Established as a biennial tradition, the Honoured Citizen Awards encompass 11 nomination categories, including Culture, Environment, Youth, Business, Education, Science, and Posthumous contributions. The Yvan Deschênes Award was added in 2019 to recognize exceptional leadership and community impact, in memory of the former mayor whose legacy still resonates throughout Rosemère.

The atmosphere at Saturday’s event was equal parts celebratory and intimate, with friends, family members, elected officials, and community leaders joining together to applaud the accomplishments of their neighbours. While each story shared was unique, the common thread was a deep commitment to community and a passion for giving back.

As the evening came to a close, it was clear that the true spirit of Rosemère lies not only in its quiet streets or green spaces but in the people who dedicate themselves to making it a better place—one act of service at a time. The 2025 Honoured Citizens now take their place among a growing list of local legends whose efforts continue to shape the heart and soul of the town.

Exploring the Roots of Democracy: Saint-Eustache Event Marks Citizenship Week with Historical Focus

Maria Diamantis
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Exploring the Roots of Democracy: Saint-Eustache Event Marks Citizenship Week with Historical Focus

In celebration of Citizenship Week in Canada, the Société de généalogie et d’histoire de Saint-Eustache (SGHSE) is inviting the public to a thought-provoking historical conference titled “The Pillars of Democracy in Quebec and Canada.” Presented by historian Vicki Onufriu, the event will take place at the local library and aims to shed light on key events that have shaped the democratic character of Quebec and Canada over the past 400 years.

Open to adults, this special presentation is more than a history lesson—it is an opportunity for participants to reflect on how pivotal moments in the past have laid the groundwork for the civic and political institutions we know today. By revisiting these formative events, the conference underscores how democracy in Canada has been built gradually and intentionally, through centuries of political development, social struggle, and institutional reform.

The lecture will explore how these historical episodes have shaped not just governments, but also the daily lives of citizens—from voting rights and legislative change to the evolving role of civic engagement in shaping public policy. The event forms part of a wider national effort to promote citizenship education during this commemorative week.

In highlighting the civic importance of these topics, the SGHSE also draws attention to the responsibilities that come with living in a democracy. Understanding the roots of democratic institutions enables citizens to engage more thoughtfully with present-day political discourse and challenges.

The session is free of charge for SGHSE members, while non-members may attend for $10, payable at the door. Advance registration is required, either by email at admin@sghse.org or by phone at 450-974-5164.

The SGHSE has long played a key role in promoting public knowledge of Quebec’s local and national history. Through events such as this, it seeks to foster not only historical curiosity but also a deeper appreciation for the values that sustain democratic life.

At a time when civic participation is increasingly vital, The Pillars of Democracy in Quebec and Canada offers a timely opportunity to reconnect with the foundations of Canadian democratic culture—reminding citizens that democracy is not just inherited but learned, understood, and protected.

Art Takes Flight in Rosemère as “Rosemère en Arts” Returns with a Whirlwind of Inspiration

Maria Diamantis
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Art Takes Flight in Rosemère as “Rosemère en Arts” Returns with a Whirlwind of Inspiration

Creativity will be in full bloom at the end of the month as Rosemère prepares to host the fourth edition of Rosemère en Arts, a vibrant public celebration of visual art and local talent. Set against the theme “As the Wind Blows”, this year’s event will take place on May 31 and June 1, transforming the heart of the town into an open-air gallery of movement, colour, and imagination.

The cultural showcase will span three main locations—outside the Recreation Department building, near Sainte-Françoise-Cabrini Church, and inside the atrium of H.J. Hemens Public Library—offering residents and visitors alike a chance to explore the creative output of 56 artists from across Quebec. Many of these artists have deep roots in Rosemère, and for two full days, they will be painting live, presenting their latest pieces, and engaging with the public in a dynamic and immersive setting.

Internationally renowned painter Roland Palmaerts will serve as the event’s honorary chair, bringing an added layer of prestige to the proceedings. Palmaerts will also conduct a live demonstration, creating a piece before attendees’ eyes—one of whom will walk away with the original work in a unique giveaway that blends art with accessibility.

The festival isn’t just for adult art lovers. In keeping with the wind-inspired theme, children will be invited to create their own kites and pinwheels—hands-on activities designed to encourage both play and artistic expression. Returning this year is “La petite galerie,” a creative space tailored to young minds, where kids can explore art through their own lens, spark curiosity, and build early connections to the world of visual storytelling.

Mayor Eric Westram expressed his enthusiasm for the event, calling it “a wonderful and thoroughly engaging experience” that highlights the “exceptional talent of Rosemère’s artists.” He emphasized that Rosemère en Arts offers something for everyone—from devoted art connoisseurs to families looking for a lively and enriching weekend activity.

The town is backing this initiative in a meaningful way, contributing $10,000 in financial support and providing both equipment and technical assistance to help bring the event to life. The project is organized by the Rosemère Artists Gathering (RAR), a dedicated collective that has helped build the event into a cornerstone of the town’s cultural calendar.

RAR President Caroline Foley praised the collaboration behind the event, citing the “talent of the participating artists, the support of our partners and the hard work of our volunteers” as key to the festival’s continued success. “This promises to once again be a real treat for the eyes and the heart,” she said, encouraging attendees to not only admire the art but to speak with the artists and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of creativity.

As the wind picks up in Rosemère this spring, so too does the spirit of artistic expression. Rosemère en Arts is more than an art show—it’s a celebration of local identity, shared inspiration, and the simple joy of seeing ideas take form before your eyes.

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