Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter
The Old Gatineau Business and Professionals Association (AGAP) and its Board of Directors held an annual general meeting at 330 Notre-Dame Street on Wednesday, March 26, to review achievements, projects, and directions for 2025.
The event began at 6 pm, when guests enjoyed a welcome cocktail and discussion. A president and secretary were then elected. Several items were read, including the notice of meeting, the adoption of the agenda, and the adoption of the minutes of the 2023 AGM. The 2024 financial statements were then presented.
A Word from the President: Daniel Baril
“The revitalization of Old Gatineau, and closer to home, its commercial heart, represents a long-term process. The seeds sown yesterday, sometimes dormant, have sprouted and then emerged, motivating us to continue, and even to reap the rewards.”
A Word from the Executive Director: Pauline Bouchard
“Commercial development is now part of a common language. Far from being opposed to economic development, it represents one of the most structuring foundations for a strong and diversified local economy. A local economy interwoven into our daily lives.”
2024 Annual Report and 2025 Directions
The meeting continued with the presentation of the 2024 annual report and the 2025 action plan. This report addressed several topics. First, an explanation of the association and its organization was presented to provide a clearer understanding of AGAP.
Next, the marketing aspect was presented through various projects, activities, and shows such as: Notre-Dame en fête, Chantons ensemble, Placette Main, Marché des fêtes, and more.
A commercial economic development analysis was conducted to obtain an overall picture of spending, participation rates, visitor origins, and several other aspects.
The urban redevelopment of Notre-Dame Street was also discussed to highlight the physical improvements made to the area for its revitalization.
In addition, various communication methods, such as social media, media, websites, advertising posters, and others, were presented to promote the various activities.
The orientations for 2025 were presented in relation to various projects, developments, marketing, and land use planning. “We will have a marketing strategy called BB aux oeufs bleus (an egg hunt activity for children) that will begin on April 2 in three sectors of the city: Old Aylmer, Gatineau, and Old Gatineau,” explained Pauline Bouchard.
Nominations, Candidates, and Speeches
The meeting continued with several nominations, such as the appointment of an auditor for 2025 and an election chair and secretary. A nomination and election of directors were also adopted. The event concluded with speeches from the group.
Photo: Pauline Bouchard, Executive Director, during her presentation at the 2024 AGAP General Meeting (March 26, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas