Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

Huntingdon’s Mayor André Brunette has officially announced his bid for re-election in the upcoming municipal vote.

First elected in 1995, Brunette served as mayor until 2003, when citizens opted for Stéphane Gendron. Brunette was returned to the job following the 2013 and 2017 elections. He was elected for a third consecutive term in 2021 by acclamation.

“I wake up every morning, and I think of the past 200 years, and what has happened. My goal is to continue what we have started over this last decade,” Brunette said, noting that 12 years ago the town was facing financial difficulties and is now thriving. His platform will emphasize sustained economic progress, community development, and prudent financial management that builds on the successes of the past several years.

Brunette said he hopes to continue to develop the town and attract new residents and businesses, while acknowledging there is work to be done when it comes to the creation of a community centre, revitalizing the town centre and main section of Chateauguay Street, the continued development of housing initiatives, and the preservation of heritage buildings and structures. He explained that as new residential developments will continue to generate additional income, he expects taxes to remain stable even as the municipality invests in major projects.

Brunette emphasized the collaborative culture that exists at the town hall, noting the administration and council meet regularly “as a round-table team” to address issues and plan ahead. “It’s not just the mayor that does the work,” he maintained, noting he was pleased to learn that most, if not all members of the current council will also be running for re-election come November.