Opening Comments by Mayor Peter J. Malouf - Regular Meeting of Tuesday, July 11, 2023

‘’ Good evening to all,

Thank you for joining us this evening.

Flooding

Recent torrential rains have caused flooding in some homes. In some cases, this is due to sewer back-up, in others to surface water, and in still others to water coming into the residence, either from drains or gutters. I'd like to reassure residents that we take this matter seriously, and that's why we commissioned a specialist firm at the beginning of the year to carry out a study of the hydraulic capacity of our sewer system. What's more, you will learn this evening that we are awarding an additional contract to the consultant so that he can investigate the situation in greater depth.

Our Technical services department is working closely with the consultant, and once we have received the final report and recommendations, we will be able to draw up an action plan for the future. Our sewer system is over 100 years old. We maintain it regularly, cleaning it and replacing sections where necessary. It should be noted, however, that our sewer system is connected to Montreal's network, so we are also dependent on its capacity.

I would like to remind residents that if you wish to make a claim against the town, you must do so within 15 days of the incident. All relevant information is available on the Town's website.

Following the heavy rains of June 24, we recorded around 45 claims, and for the rains of July 4, there have been around 15 to date.

Summerfest

I know that many residents were disappointed by the cancellation of the Summerfest, but the decision was motivated by several factors: the uncertain weather (rain, thunder and wind), and above all, the poor air quality warnings issued by Environment Canada.

We considered that the fireworks would be an additional pollution to the already poor air quality.

Under such conditions, it was unthinkable to invite residents to come and take part in such an activity.

Other News and Good News

As part of the emergency response to the April ice storm, we submitted a claim to the Agglomeration de Montreal for the cost of cleaning up branches and repairing damage.

A claim for approximately $500,000 was sent to the Agglomeration of Montreal concerning these costs incurred during the April ice storm. The claim was deemed acceptable.

The Agglomeration has also informed us that our request for a subsidy for the bike path project in the Town centre has been accepted. We will receive a subsidy of $455,200 for the installation of bicycle paths as part of the dalle-park project.

QSC

With regard to the sports and community center, a call for tenders is underway to find a professional firm to assist us in preparing the FTP (Functional and Technical Program) and the process for pursuing the project in design-build mode. It is expected that the contract for professional services will be awarded at the August Council meeting.

We have also received information that the government will be launching a subsidies program for recreational and community projects this fall. We look forward to hearing the details.

Free 65+ | Société de transport de Montréal

I'd also like to mention that for residents aged 65 and over, the STM has put in place, since July 1, a program whereby seniors can obtain an OPUS card for $15, letting them to use public transit free of charge.

Pickleball

For pickleball enthusiasts and future enthusiasts, we hear your requests. A few weeks ago, our open house attracted a large number of people. As a result, we've increased the number of hours of play available on the existing courts.

We have also ensured that staff or a senior supervisor is present on the pickleball courts to guarantee everyone's enjoyment and safety. A plan is underway to increase the number of pickleball courts in the town in the near future.

Summer Camps

The summer camps are fully booked. Feedback from residents and staff alike, where children are registered for camp, has been extremely positive. Congratulations to our sports and leisure staff for their excellent work.

Provincial Residential Swimming Pool Safety Regulation

It's also important to note that, due to new provincial regulations on residential pools, it is now required to install a safety enclosure around every pool. In this regard, documents will be sent by Canada Post to all pool owners to help them comply, if necessary.

In conclusion, I hope you enjoy your summer and have a good vacation!

I look forward to seeing you at one of our many summer events.”