Home Blog Page 19

How Lorraine’s New Property Assessment Roll Shapes Your 2025 Tax Bill

Maria Diamantis
-
0
How Lorraine’s New Property Assessment Roll Shapes Your 2025 Tax Bill

The Town of Lorraine, nestled in the heart of Quebec, has unveiled its new triennial property assessment roll, a critical tool influencing the calculation of municipal property taxes. This update, effective in 2025, reflects changes in property values and provides insight into the relationship between property assessments and municipal tax bills.

Key Components of the Triennial Assessment

The triennial property assessment serves as the foundation for calculating municipal taxes. However, the amount on annual tax bills also depends on budgetary decisions made by the municipal council and the costs of essential services, such as water consumption and waste management.

To mitigate the impact of rising property values, Lorraine’s municipal council will adjust the tax rate to account for the average increase in property values. Properties that see value increases above the average for their category may experience a higher tax increase, while those with below-average increases might see their taxes reduced.

In Lorraine, residential properties dominate, comprising 98.53% of the total property value. This means the town’s tax burden falls almost entirely on homeowners.

Requesting a Review

To address concerns about the new assessments, Lorraine has partnered with its finance and treasury department and the appraisal firm LBP Évaluateurs to provide support to property owners. Key details about the review process include:

  • Timeline: Property owners can submit a request for review until April 30, 2025.
  • Evaluation Process: Reviewed properties will undergo a detailed re-assessment, with results communicated by September 1, 2025.
  • Fees: A fee, based on the property’s value, will apply for review requests. This amount is specified on the assessment notice and adheres to regulation 198.

What’s Next for Property Owners?

Property owners in Lorraine will receive their updated property assessment notices in February 2025, alongside their annual tax bill.
To better understand the role of municipal assessments, residents are encouraged to explore resources provided by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MAMH), including the explanatory video What is Municipal Assessment?

Blainville Honors Exceptional Citizens in a Memorable Celebration

Maria Diamantis
-
0
Blainville Honors Exceptional Citizens in a Memorable Celebration

On November 14th, the City of Blainville held an inspiring evening to celebrate the remarkable contributions of its residents during the Gala of the Ordre du mérite blainvillois and the induction of new members into its Sports Hall of Fame. The event showcased the extraordinary spirit of community engagement and athletic excellence that defines Blainville.

Since 1987, Blainville has been honoring citizens whose dedication and actions have left an indelible mark on the community. This year, Mayor Liza Poulin expressed her gratitude to the local organizations that nominate these exceptional individuals, praising their unwavering commitment and contributions to the city’s vibrant life.

The highlight of the evening was the recognition of Suzanne Poirier-Lemieux, who received the title of Membre émérite, the highest distinction of the Ordre du mérite blainvillois. Known for her financial acumen and leadership, Poirier-Lemieux has supported numerous organizations, from cultural groups to community associations, inspiring trust and fostering a sense of security wherever she volunteers.

Other honourees included individuals who have tirelessly worked to improve the lives of those around them. Alain Boudreault, a driving force behind activities for seniors as president of the Club de l’âge d’or Le Blainvillois, was celebrated for his creativity and teamwork. Céline Morency, devoted to breaking social isolation among seniors and supporting adults with intellectual disabilities, exemplifies compassion in action. Meanwhile, Bertrand Painchaud’s innovative contributions to the Blainville Petanque Association, including the creation of specialized software, underline the importance of technical skills in community development.

The gala also honored Léo-Paul Bourré for his decades of service as the cook for Dîners de l’amitié, where his meticulous preparation and kindness brought comfort to many. Additionally, the Palme d’or was awarded to Entreprises Pierre Richer for its outstanding corporate engagement, highlighting its involvement in initiatives such as the Fondation Martin-Matte and Blainville’s successful bid to host the Quebec Games.

The Sports Hall of Fame welcomed three new members, each representing the pinnacle of athletic achievement and dedication. Claire Parenteau, an occupational therapist, was recognized for creating a hockey program tailored for children with autism, making the sport accessible in the Laurentians and Lanaudière. Raphaëlle Gauthier, an artistic swimmer and 2024 Olympian, was celebrated for her multiple podium finishes at provincial and national competitions. Lastly, Gabriel Séguin, a paratennis athlete whose resilience has led to international success, including medals at the Pan American Games and the Canadian Championships, serves as an inspiration for all.

This gala was more than an evening of awards—it was a testament to the power of commitment, collaboration, and the extraordinary potential of community spirit. Blainville once again demonstrated that its true strength lies in the dedication and passion of its people, making it a city to admire and emulate.

The North Shore News volume 20-22

NSN Staff
-
0
The North Shore News volume 20-22

The current issue of The North Shore News volume 20-22 published November 22nd, 2024.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.

Rosemère Wins Top Honors at the 2024 Communities in Bloom Competition

Maria Diamantis
-
0
Rosemère Wins Top Honors at the 2024 Communities in Bloom Competition

The Town of Rosemère achieved remarkable recognition at the 30th annual Communities in Bloom awards ceremony, held on October 20 in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. Competing against national and international communities, Rosemère was awarded the prestigious Outstanding Achievement Award for Community of Gardeners and achieved a 5-Blooms Gold rating in the International Challenge – Medium-Sized Communities category. The town also received a special mention for its Community Engagement Program, specifically aimed at protecting the Monarch butterfly.
Outstanding Achievement Award for Community of Gardeners
Rosemère’s Hamilton House garden earned the Outstanding Achievement Award, a recognition of the meticulous care and creativity that have transformed the site into a community landmark. Maintained and designed with the collective efforts of residents, volunteers, and town staff, the garden’s unique guitar-shaped layout is a nod to the cultural heritage of the site and has become a central element of Rosemère’s beautification projects.
This award also reflects the success of long-running community initiatives like the Rosemère in Bloom competition, now in its 35th year, and the Secret Garden Tour, which invites the public to visit private gardens showcased by local residents. Additionally, the community gardens on the grounds of Externat Sacré-Cœur and Val-des-Ormes schools were highlighted as examples of the town’s commitment to cultivating beauty and sustainability.
International Challenge – Medium-Sized Communities
In the International Challenge category, Rosemère received the distinguished 5-Blooms Gold rating, an achievement that acknowledges excellence in environmental sustainability and green space enhancement. The town was also honored with a special mention for its Community Engagement Program to protect the Monarch butterfly, a species facing significant threats. Through this program, Rosemère’s residents have joined efforts to create habitats that support Monarch populations, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.
Reflecting on Rosemère’s achievements, Mayor Eric Westram expressed gratitude for the community’s ongoing dedication to green initiatives:
“We are honored to be a finalist alongside such fine Canadian and European cities. Winning in this category is a great reward for the Town of Rosemère, which has been participating in Communities in Bloom since its very first edition, 30 years ago. This honor would never have been possible without Monique Keurentjes, foreman of green spaces and environment, who has made Rosemère a town that shines both provincially and internationally for its landscaping and management of natural spaces. She will be leaving us at the end of the year for a well-deserved retirement. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Monique, for 35 years of passion and commitment, and for making Rosemère as green and flourishing as it is today.”
About Communities in Bloom
Communities in Bloom is a volunteer- and partner-driven organization dedicated to enhancing community participation, environmental sustainability, and heritage conservation. Through initiatives that promote the improvement of municipal, residential, commercial, and institutional spaces, Communities in Bloom encourages communities across Canada and internationally to develop beautiful and sustainable green spaces.

Radon: The Second Leading Cause of Lung Cancer After Smoking November: Radon Awareness Month

Maria Diamantis
-
0
Radon: The Second Leading Cause of Lung Cancer After Smoking November: Radon Awareness Month

This Radon Awareness Month, the Public Health Directorate of the Laurentian Integrated Health and Social Services Center (CISSS des Laurentides) emphasizes the health risks linked to elevated radon levels in homes. Exposure to high levels of radon can significantly impact health.
Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is produced by uranium decay in the earth’s crust. Outdoors, it disperses harmlessly in the air, but when it seeps into buildings—mainly through foundations—it can accumulate, reaching concentrations that pose health risks.
With many people converting basements into home offices or children’s rooms, the potential for radon exposure is increasing. Radon is invisible, odorless, and undetectable by the senses, making it essential to monitor its concentration to keep levels within safe limits.
Long-term exposure to high radon levels increases the risk of lung cancer, making radon the second-leading cause of lung cancer after smoking and the primary cause among non-smokers. In Quebec, radon exposure is associated with 10 to 16% of lung cancer deaths, totaling over 1,000 fatalities annually.
Testing Radon Levels for Health Protection
The easiest way to determine radon concentration in a home is by using a radon test kit, known as a dosimeter. Homeowners can perform the test themselves or seek the services of a radon measurement professional. If the results reveal high radon levels, corrective measures can be taken.
For more information on radon, obtaining a recommended dosimeter, and making your residence safer, visit santelaurentides.gouv.qc.ca/sante-publique/environnement/radon.

Deux-Montagnes Achieves Level 5 Ribbon for Excellence in BiblioQUALITÉ Program

Maria Diamantis
-
0
Deux-Montagnes Achieves Level 5 Ribbon for Excellence in BiblioQUALITÉ Program

The City of Deux-Montagnes has achieved a significant milestone in public library service excellence, securing a Level 5 ribbon with an impressive 89% rating in the 2023 BiblioQUALITÉ program diagnostic. This high score, which reflects a 4% improvement from the previous evaluation, sets the city apart in Québec, where the average score among participating cities in the program is 70%. With a score 19% above the average, Deux-Montagnes continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to providing exceptional library services.
The BiblioQUALITÉ program, spearheaded by the Association des bibliothèques publiques du Québec (ABPQ), is designed to evaluate and recognize the quality of public libraries across the province through a sustainable, objective framework. Cities are assessed across five quantifiable indicators that reflect essential components of a robust library system: acquisition expenditures, operating hours, adequate space, seating availability, and staffing resources. These indicators serve as a comprehensive measure of the library’s ability to meet the needs of its community and maintain a high standard of accessibility and service.
Deux-Montagnes’ high rating reflects ongoing efforts to enhance the local library, making it a resource-rich and inviting space for residents of all ages. Recent initiatives include an expansion of the library’s hours, ensuring greater flexibility for users, as well as significant investment in new book collections, digital media, and educational resources aimed at meeting the diverse interests of the community. Additionally, the city has increased its commitment to qualified staffing, ensuring that users receive expert assistance and guidance in navigating both traditional and digital library resources.
Mayor Denis Martin noted that the Level 5 rating underlines the city’s dedication to continuous improvement in public services. He expressed hopes that this recognition will inspire more residents to explore the library’s offerings and benefit from the broad range of services available. Martin highlighted the city’s focus on fostering a welcoming environment through enhanced facilities, qualified personnel, and an ever-expanding collection that reflects the needs of Deux-Montagnes’ evolving community.
Beyond the services and resources within the library walls, the Deux-Montagnes Public Library also prioritizes accessibility and community engagement. The library regularly hosts a variety of programs, workshops, and events tailored to different age groups and interests, including children’s story hours, educational workshops, and digital literacy programs. These initiatives not only provide residents with learning opportunities but also strengthen the library’s role as a community hub, fostering connection and inclusivity.

After the Deluge: Rosemère Gathers to Fortify Homes Against Future Storms

Maria Diamantis
-
0
After the Deluge: Rosemère Gathers to Fortify Homes Against Future Storms

The town of Rosemère is still reeling from the aftermath of Hurricane Debby, which unleashed torrents of rain, leading to widespread flooding and sewer backups across the area. In response, the town is hosting a critical community event on November 25, 2024, aimed at empowering residents with strategies to protect their homes against increasingly volatile weather patterns.
This event, taking place at the Memorial Community Center, will open with a post-mortem on the August 9 deluge. Mayor Eric Westram will present an analysis of the town’s response to the storm and outline proactive measures to enhance preparedness for future occurrences. Though the presentation will not address individual claims submitted to the town, residents will have an opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with the town’s action plans.
Following the mayor’s session, the evening will shift to a conference titled “Immunizing Your Home Against Climate Hazards,” focusing on home resilience amid severe weather. Marcel Roy, a technical advisor from JFSA, an engineering firm specializing in water resources and environmental protection, will lead the conference. Roy will provide Rosemère homeowners with practical, code-compliant strategies for safeguarding their properties, including the use of flood barriers, pump systems, and backflow preventers. The session will end with a Q&A period, where residents can address specific concerns and receive expert guidance.
Due to limited seating, registration is required, with priority given to Rosemère residents. Those interested can reserve their place by emailing communications@ville.rosemere.qc.ca or by calling 450 621-3500, ext. 1249, providing their full name and address.
The conference will explore a range of relevant topics, including common vulnerabilities in homes that lead to flooding or sewer backups, types of drainage networks in Rosemère, key plumbing regulations for flood prevention, an overview of various backflow preventers and pumping equipment, and notable issues identified in past home inspections. For those unable to attend, a recording will be made available on Rosemère’s website at a later date.
This essential event replaces the mayor’s breakfast initially scheduled for November 23, ensuring that all residents have access to critical information as Rosemère adapts to an evolving climate landscape.

A Spooktacular Evening at the Town of Rosemere Library: Building Community through Youth Engagement

Maria Diamantis
-
0
A Spooktacular Evening at the Town of Rosemere Library: Building Community through Youth Engagement

The Town of Rosemere Library recently became the scene of a Halloween celebration that left a lasting impression on its young attendees. For one electrifying night, 150 young people, aged 10 to 16, gathered for a thrilling, parent-free Halloween party that emphasized not only fun but also community bonding and civic pride.
The library, typically a quiet place for reading and learning, was transformed into a Halloween wonderland, filled with lights, music, and decorations that brought the spooky season to life. A DJ set the tone for the evening with lively music that kept the dance floor buzzing, as participants, dressed in a dazzling array of costumes, mingled, laughed, and enjoyed the freedom of an evening designed just for them. The costume parade was a major highlight, giving these young residents the opportunity to showcase their creativity, while also fostering a sense of shared celebration and community pride.
Beyond the entertainment, the evening provided a safe, supervised space for youth to express themselves, meet new friends, and strengthen bonds with their peers. This event underscores the library’s role as more than a center for books; it’s a hub for civic engagement, personal growth, and community connection. Events like this allow young people to experience the library as an inclusive gathering place where they are welcomed and valued members of the community.
The evening also featured a photo booth, where kids could capture memories against Halloween-themed backdrops, and temporary tattoo stations that added an extra level of festive fun. A well-stocked candy bar offered sweet treats, fueling the night’s energy and creating a true party atmosphere.
This Halloween event highlights the importance of community-driven youth initiatives, giving young residents a chance to develop a sense of belonging and shared identity. By creating a safe, inclusive, and festive space, the Town of Rosemere Library succeeded in fostering a strong civic spirit. The success of this event not only sets a promising precedent for future youth gatherings but also reinforces the library’s commitment to serving the community in innovative and meaningful ways.

The North Shore News volume 20-21

NSN Staff
-
0
The North Shore News volume 20-21

The current issue of The North Shore News volume 20-21 published November 8th, 2024.
Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.

Front page of The North Shore News.
Front page of The North Shore News, November 8th, 2024 issue.

Sainte-Thérèse in the Hot Seat: Storm Debby Sparks Urgent Public Forum

Maria Diamantis
-
0
Sainte-Thérèse in the Hot Seat: Storm Debby Sparks Urgent Public Forum

On the evening of October 30th, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, the City of Sainte-Thérèse will hold a special public session at the Thérèse-De Blainville Cultural and Community Center. The focus of this gathering will be to address the aftermath of the Debby storm that struck on August 9th, as well as the steps the municipal administration has taken since.
This meeting comes in response to concerns raised during the September 2nd city council session, where citizens expressed frustration and confusion over the damage caused by the storm. Many residents questioned the city’s role and responsibility in mitigating the impact of the disaster, leading to calls for a more thorough explanation.
In response, Mayor Charron has agreed to host this public forum to provide clear answers to the community’s pressing questions.
Expert in Water Management to Speak
The city council will be joined by Marcel Roy, a seasoned professional from JFSA, a firm specializing in sustainable water resource management for over 30 years. Roy, an expert in flood and water infiltration management, will share his insights on how to handle such natural disasters.
During the session, Roy will delve into the effects of climate change, the functioning of urban drainage and sewer systems, and practical steps that citizens can take to protect their homes from severe weather events like heavy rainfalls.
At the end of the presentation, attendees will have a 30-minute period to ask questions related to the five main themes covered during the evening. The session will also be recorded and made available for those who are unable to attend.
Reminder to Register for Emergency Alerts
In addition to the public meeting, the city is reminding residents of the importance of registering for its Citizen Alert System. This system proved essential during Storm Debby, providing rapid communication with residents through text messages, emails, or phone calls during emergency situations. It ensures that citizens receive critical information to help them prepare and protect their families and property.
Interested individuals can sign up for the alert system by visiting the city’s website.
Although the meeting will provide essential information, it is important to note that the city will not address specific claims related to damages during this event. However, the session aims to empower residents with knowledge and resources for better preparedness in the future. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to confirm their participation by filling out the registration form available online.

1...181920...137Page 19 of 137

Weather

Rosemère
overcast clouds
0.5 ° C
1.6 °
-0.9 °
70 %
4.4kmh
97 %
Mon
1 °
Tue
0 °
Wed
-2 °
Thu
-2 °
Fri
-0 °