Unexpected Resignation of Town Councillor Carla Brown Leaves Rosemère in Transition
Rosemère recently witnessed the unexpected resignation of Town Councillor Carla Brown. Brown, who held Seat 2 on Rosemère’s Town Council, formally submitted her letter of resignation to the Town Clerk’s Office on January 15th, with immediate effect. The official announcement of her resignation was made at the Town Council meeting on January 22, where Mayor Eric Westram read aloud her letter of resignation.
In her heartfelt letter, Carla Brown cited personal and family considerations as the driving force behind her decision. She emphasized the importance of respect, not just for others but also for oneself, and expressed her gratitude for the trust placed in her during her term in office. Brown took the opportunity to thank the Administration, Town Management, and her fellow Council members for their unwavering support, acknowledging the valuable experiences and lessons she gained during her time in office.
Carla Brown’s tenure as a Town Councillor was marked by her dedication to community welfare, most notably her instrumental role in the development of the new MADA – Family policy. Brown initially served on the steering committee as a resident before her election in 2021. Her commitment and passion for this vital issue in Rosemère’s community played a pivotal role in translating policy goals into tangible results. The Town of Rosemère recognized her professionalism and contribution, emphasizing the positive impact she had on the community.
Mayor Eric Westram expressed his gratitude to Carla Brown for her energy and dedication in making Rosemère a caring and compassionate community. Her deep knowledge of the local community proved to be an invaluable asset during decision-making processes. He wished her success in her future endeavors, highlighting the impact she had on Rosemère during her term.
Carla Brown had been serving as Councillor since the municipal elections of November 2021. With her resignation, the Town of Rosemère will need to organize a by-election to fill Seat 2. This will be a significant event for the town, as residents and candidates prepare for the electoral process that will determine the next representative to continue the work begun by Carla Brown.
The Thérèse de Blainville Police Department’s Ongoing Efforts to Prevent Unintentional Intoxication
Unintentional intoxication is a growing concern in many communities, posing serious risks to individuals and the safety of the public. In response to this issue, the Thérèse de Blainville Police Department (RITPB) has embarked on a proactive campaign to tackle this problem head-on. Their approach involves a series of awareness visits to licensed establishments, fostering collaboration between neighborhood officers, local agents, and detective sergeants. These visits serve as a crucial means of educating and guiding establishment managers on best practices for preventing and intervening in cases of unintentional intoxication.
Within the areas served by the RITPB, a blitz of awareness visits has been launched, targeting various licensed establishments. The initiative aims to raise awareness about the risks associated with unintentional intoxication and to equip establishments with the knowledge and tools to mitigate these risks effectively.
At the heart of this campaign lies the collaboration between different branches of law enforcement. Neighborhood officers, local agents, and detective sergeants bring their unique expertise and insights to the table, making for a holistic and comprehensive approach to the issue. These officers have deep roots in their communities, allowing them to foster relationships with business owners and better understand the specific challenges their neighborhoods face.
The collaboration between law enforcement and local businesses has proven to be highly effective in raising awareness and promoting a safer environment within licensed establishments. Beyond preventing unintentional intoxication, this campaign fosters a sense of community responsibility among business owners and their employees.
What sets the Thérèse de Blainville Police Department apart is their commitment to continuous improvement. They monitor the progress and impact of their efforts, adapting their approach as needed to address emerging challenges and concerns. This commitment ensures that their campaign remains effective and responsive to the evolving needs of the community.
MRC of Thérèse-De Blainville Launches 26th Edition of OSEntreprendre Challenge in the Laurentides
The MRC of Thérèse-De Blainville, led by Mr. Eric Westram, the prefect, and Mr. Derick Fonseca, president of Le Bon Plan Marketing, kicked off the 26th edition of the OSEntreprendre Challenge during a press conference. This annual event promotes entrepreneurial initiatives and attracts approximately 47,000 participants, ranging from young students to seasoned business leaders.
The OSEntreprendre Challenge is a significant movement in Quebec, supporting various entrepreneurial activities through its different components. It encourages students, new entrepreneurs, and established business owners, all contributing to the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem of Quebec. The challenge operates at the local, regional, and national levels, with over 300 leaders actively involved in highlighting local projects.
The MRC of Thérèse-De Blainville’s Economic Development Department coordinates the Business Creation component of the challenge. Eligible entrepreneurs must establish a company that had not generated income before April 1, 2023, with the startup date set no later than December 31, 2024. To ensure the validity of their registration, participating companies must be registered with the Quebec Business Registry. Businesses will be categorized into seven groups: biofood, social economy, technological and technical innovation, commerce, services to individuals, services to businesses, and exploitation/processing/production.
Evaluation of entrepreneurs occurs at three levels: local (MRC de Thérèse-De Blainville), followed by regional (the Laurentides), and then the winners have the opportunity to represent their administrative region at the provincial level. The assessment criteria include the quality of the business plan, originality and innovation, entrepreneurial profile, social impact, profitability, sustainability, and more.
Mr. Westram, expressed his pride in launching the 26th edition of the OSEntreprendre Challenge within their territory, emphasizing the importance of supporting emerging SMEs and showcasing their potential. He said, “We hope, once again, to unearth some great entrepreneurial gems in our territory.”
Mr. Derick Fonseca, shared a message with aspiring entrepreneurs, stating, “Being an entrepreneur means working harder than as an employee, without the security, stability, and above all, not having recognition from an employer. The OSEntreprendre Challenge is your moment! The moment to celebrate entrepreneurship and the courage of all the people behind these great businesses. People who have worked with a vision and dared to undertake!”
Important dates to remember include project registration by Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. at the latest. The local gala of the OSEntreprendre Challenge will take place on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at the Professional Training Center in New Technologies; Mille-Îles School Service Center; 75, rue Duquet; Sainte-Thérèse (Quebec) J7E 5R8. It’s an exciting opportunity for entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas and business plans while celebrating entrepreneurship in the region.
Embracing Health and Community at the 2024 Torchlit Gathering in Saint-Eustache Nature Park
On Saturday, the 10th of February, at 6pm the 𝐒𝐨𝐢𝐫𝐞́𝐞 𝐚𝐮𝐱 𝐟𝐥𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐱 is a torchlit evening at Saint-Eustache Nature Park, a cherished tradition within the 2024 Winter Delights program, promising a wealth of social and health benefits for all attendees.
Participants embarking on the Chickadee Trail’s 2.8-kilometer journey, bathed in the gentle glow of hundreds of torches, are in for an evening of enchantment. As they stroll along, a delightful surprise awaits in the form of a street performer, enhancing the sense of community and shared enjoyment.
One cannot underestimate the therapeutic value of this winter gathering. The cozy atmosphere around the bonfires offers a reprieve from the chilly air, allowing individuals to unwind and connect with one another while being serenaded by the melodies of a singer-songwriter. These shared moments of warmth and camaraderie contribute to improved mental well-being and foster a sense of belonging.
The event also encourages self-expression and creativity, as participants have the opportunity to immortalize their experience by having their caricature drawn. This fosters a sense of individuality and provides a tangible keepsake to commemorate the evening. In addition to the emotional and social benefits, there are tantalizing surprises in store for attendees. The luminous and delectable treats provided add an element of joy and indulgence to the evening, further enhancing the overall experience.
Moreover, the presence of the Entre-Ados Youth House, a local nonprofit organization, adds a philanthropic dimension to the event. By selling hot chocolate, they not only offer a comforting treat but also contribute to a noble cause. The cash payments go directly toward funding the organization, allowing them to continue their valuable work within the community.
This event, designed for everyone, promotes inclusivity and diversity, welcoming individuals from all walks of life to come together and celebrate the beauty of winter in a natural setting. It encourages physical activity through the leisurely walk, promoting better health and well-being, while also strengthening the social fabric of the community.
For convenience, ample parking is available at the main entrance of Nature Park, ensuring that attendees can easily access the event. It’s worth noting that dogs are allowed on-site, provided they are kept on a leash and their waste is responsibly collected.
In conclusion, the torchlit evening at Saint-Eustache Nature Park offers an array of social and health benefits, from fostering a sense of community and mental well-being to encouraging creativity and physical activity. This event, open to all, not only provides an enchanting winter experience but also contributes to the betterment of the community through the presence of the Entre-Ados Youth House. It’s an occasion to savor, combining the joys of winter with the warmth of shared moments.
Celebrating 4,000 Births: Midwives in the Laurentians Provide Exceptional Care
The Integrated Health and Social Services Center (CISSS) of the Laurentides is celebrating a remarkable milestone as they mark the 4,000th birth assisted by their dedicated team of midwives at the Boisé-de-Blainville Birth Center. Little Anna Carpentier’s arrival into the world symbolizes the continued success and invaluable contribution of midwives in the Laurentians.
For the past 16 years, families in the Laurentians region have had the privilege of benefiting from the expertise and compassionate care provided by midwives. Parents in the area have the option to choose a birthing experience with midwives either at home, the Birthing Center, Saint-Jérôme Hospital, or Saint-Eustache Hospital. Currently, the region is fortunate to have a team of 10 skilled midwives in addition to the service manager at the Boisé-de-Blainville Birth Center.
Joëlle Carpentier, the mother of little Anna, shared her family’s experience with midwifery care, stating, “We welcomed our youngest in the comfort of our home, never doubting the security of the experience we were having. A follow-up with a midwife is marked by respect, kindness, and the bond that we create undoubtedly contributes to promoting the long-awaited arrival of the baby. We are overflowing with gratitude to these passionate, competent, and strong women who are always available.”
This 4,000th birth, which includes 1,000 births in the last three years alone, is a testament to the importance of local midwifery services for families in the Laurentians. Julie Delaney, the president and CEO of the CISSS des Laurentides, expressed her appreciation for the dedicated team at the Boisé-de-Blainville Birth Center, emphasizing how they offer essential and valuable assistance to pregnant women in the region.
The midwives’ contribution goes beyond just providing medical care; they foster an environment of trust and support that significantly enhances the birthing experience for families. Their holistic approach, focusing on the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of both mother and child, has resonated with countless families in the Laurentians.
For expectant parents in the region, it is reassuring to know that they have access to such a caring and skilled team of midwives. The success of reaching 4,000 births is not only a testament to the dedication of the midwives but also a celebration of the families they have touched over the years.
For those seeking more information on resources related to pregnancy and childbirth, including midwifery services available in the region, please visit the Pregnancy and Childbirth page on the santelaurentides.gouv.qc.ca website. It is a valuable resource for expectant parents, providing insights into the exceptional care and support offered by the midwives in the Laurentians.
The current issue of The North Shore News volume 20-03 published February 9th, 2024. Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.
The current issue of The North Shore News volume 20-02 published January 26th, 2024. Covering North Shore local news, politics, sports and other newsworthy events.
Tragic Fire in Boisbriand’s Kiryas Tosh Community Results in Two Fatalities (Photo: Mathieu Wagner)
Boisbriand, Lower Laurentians – A devastating fire in the heart of the Kiryas Tosh Hasidic Jewish community in Boisbriand claimed the lives of two individuals early Friday morning. The incident, which occurred at a local residence on Beth-Halevy Street, has left the community in mourning.
According to initial reports, the blaze erupted around 8:55 a.m., prompting an urgent response from the Boisbriand Fire Department. Firefighters, upon arrival, swiftly entered the burning structure to conduct a search and rescue operation. Tragically, they discovered two individuals, a man and a woman, in a state of cardiopulmonary arrest. Despite the immediate and intense efforts of the first responders, both victims were unable to be revived. Their passing was later confirmed at a nearby hospital.
The Thérèse-de-Blainville intermunicipal police have identified the victims as a 91-year-old man and a 46-year-old woman. The police have since initiated a thorough investigation to ascertain the circumstances leading to this tragic event.
Early indications suggest that the fire may have been accidental. “Our team of investigators and fire scene technicians are diligently working to determine the exact cause of the fire,” stated Inspector Karine Desaulniers in a press release. The Boisbriand fire department’s quick response played a crucial role in containing the fire, preventing further damage and loss.
The Kiryas Tosh community, established in the 1960s, is a vital part of the Boisbriand landscape, comprising approximately 3,000 members across nearly 350 families. This tragedy has undoubtedly cast a shadow over the community, which is now coming together in solidarity and grief.
The investigation into the fire is ongoing, and further details are expected to be released as they become available. The community, meanwhile, is planning memorials to honor the lives lost in this heartbreaking incident.
The Race to Leverage Canada’s Greener Homes Initiative Before Funds Run Out
As the deadline looms for one of the Canadian federal government’s most successful subsidy programs for renovations, urgency is in the air. The Canadian Greener Homes Initiative, a program designed to promote energy-efficient home renovations, is on the verge of exhausting its funds, much earlier than anticipated.
Launched in 2021 with a budget of $2.6 billion, the initiative was expected to last until 2027. However, its overwhelming popularity has led to an unprecedented uptake, signaling a possible early closure in 2024. According to Laura Thomas from Natural Resources Canada, the program’s popularity and the average subsidy amount have “exceeded all initial expectations and forecasts.”
In Quebec alone, the program has seen 74,286 applications with 29,571 subsidies granted, amounting to approximately $109 million. Nationally, these numbers balloon to 475,000 applications with over 120,000 subsidies amounting to $575 million. The average subsidy per application hovers around $4,800, nearly reaching the program’s maximum allowance.
While the program is set to continue in 2024, there is no confirmation on when the funds might run dry or if additional funds will be allocated. This uncertainty has caused concern among industry professionals like Gabriel Ouellette of Expertbâtiment, who notes the imminent exhaustion of budgets as “certainly disappointing.”
The initiative’s success is evident in Quebec, where companies like Réfrigération Everest have been busy installing heat pumps, a key element in energy-efficient homes. Martin Gingras, associated with Réfrigération Everest, acknowledges the significant role subsidies have played in boosting sales. The program has transformed the industry landscape, leading to an increase in work volume and sales for heating and air conditioning companies. Stéphane Miville of SGL air conditioning in Quebec highlights that the pandemic did not dampen sales, thanks in part to the $5,000 subsidy.
The necessity for energy assessments at both federal and provincial levels has kept companies like that of Mr. Ouellette busy, with 40,000 assessments conducted in Quebec alone this year. However, the potential end of the program is not just a loss for consumers but also poses a threat to the jobs of energy efficiency advisors, who have developed a unique expertise in this field.
There is a strong call for the continuation and refinancing of the program. Industry professionals like Martin Gingras underscore the significant impact of these subsidies, which can cover up to half the cost of installing a heat pump in an average home. This incentive not only boosts sales but also encourages customers to invest in energy-efficient solutions.
The environmental benefits are also notable. As Miville points out, a heat pump can reduce electricity consumption by 30%, benefiting everyone from utility companies to end consumers. This aligns with broader environmental goals, as reducing greenhouse gas emissions is a critical challenge facing industries and governments alike.
The Quebec Hardware and Building Materials Association (AQMAT), represented by Richard Darveau, stresses the need for the government to continue supporting consumer-driven emission reduction efforts. Darveau criticizes the potential withdrawal of subsidies, arguing that without these incentives, neither the industry nor consumers will be sufficiently motivated to combat climate change.
Expertbâtiment, with a significant presence in Quebec, highlights the program’s end as a mixed blessing. While the impact in Quebec may be mitigated due to other provincial programs, other regions might face more dramatic consequences. The preservation of jobs in energy efficiency advising is a key concern for the industry.
Despite these challenges, the federal government underscores the availability of other aids, like the Affordable Oil to Heat Pump Conversion Program and the Canadian Green Homes Loan, which has been notably successful.
In conclusion, the Canadian Greener Homes Initiative stands as a testament to the increasing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient living solutions. Its success demonstrates a public willingness to engage in environmentally friendly practices, supported by governmental incentives. As the program nears its potential early end, the call for continued support and funding reflects a broader societal shift towards sustainability, a critical move in the fight against climate change.
SUBMISSION OF THE 2024 BUDGET: TAX INCREASE UNDER INFLATION IN DEUX-MONTAGNES
In an extraordinary session on December 20, the municipal council of Deux-Montagnes adopted a critical financial framework for 2024. The budget, summing up to $33.4 million, reflects the council’s effort to manage finances in a challenging economic environment.
Key Highlights of the 2024 Budget:
Controlled Tax Increase: The tax rate sees a moderate increase of 3.55%, a figure notably below the current rate of inflation. This decision comes as part of the council’s commitment to maintaining fiscal responsibility while navigating economic pressures.
Additional Charges for Services: A specific increase of $20 is noted for the collection of residual materials. However, it’s worth noting that other rates remain unchanged for the upcoming year. For an average house valued at $313,500, this results in a total increase of 4.2% (tax rate plus tariffs), amounting to an additional $130.
Dealing with Inflation and Rising Costs: The council faced challenges with inflation and significant hikes in goods and service costs. For instance, the cost for collecting residual materials soared by 31% compared to the previous year, and wastewater-related expenses rose by 25%.
Focus on Minimizing Financial Impact: Despite these economic hurdles, the city’s primary focus was to minimize the financial strain on its citizens, who are already grappling with increasing consumer prices.
Mayor’s Statement:
Denis Martin, the mayor of Deux-Montagnes, emphasized the budget’s responsible nature in the prevailing financial climate. He highlighted the priority given to the affordability for citizens and the commitment to quality services. “Our objective is also to avoid burdening future generations and maintain our financial resilience,” stated Mayor Martin. He expressed pride in the budget, attributing its success to the diligence and innovative efforts of the elected officials and administrative team.
Major Investments for 2024:
Municipal Buildings: Renovations and upgrades worth $1.6 million.
Flood Resilience Project: A significant investment of $5 million.
Networks and Infrastructure: Allocation of $7.5 million for sewer, stormwater, and aqueduct systems.
Noise Barrier Construction: Investment of $2.5 million.
Vehicles and Equipment: An outlay of $1.6 million.
Parks Investment: $1.5 million dedicated to park developments.
These principal investments total a significant $20 million, with grants covering $12 million of this amount.
