Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

Days ahead of the by-election, Gatineau’s mayoral frontrunners shared their financial framework for the anticipated 2025 budget.

Action Gatineau head Maude Marquis-Bissonnette proposed the highest residential tax increase among the seven candidates, capped at 3.18 per cent. Independent candidate Yves Ducharme put forward the lowest increase at 2.7 per cent.

Stating he was the “only alternative to Action Gatineau,” Ducharme suggested an $846 million budget, a 5.3 per cent increase from the previous year, and a 3.7 per cent non-residential tax increase to finance street repairs and improve several municipal services.

Following recommendations from the 2023-2032 Long-Term Financial Plan, the independent candidate planned to use debt rather than cash to lift the tax burden from residents and finance his proposed measures.

“It’s a budget that’s balanced, that meets the aspirations of Gatineau residents and respects their ability to pay,” said Ducharme.

On the other hand, Marquis-Bissonnette said it was essential to respect the current financial game plan and commitments made by council for the remaining 17-month mandate.

“Everything was approved by the entire council, and it is important to establish this consensus to ensure collaboration with all members within the framework of this mandate,” she said.

However, the political party candidate disagreed with the tax increase laid out in the Long-Term Financial Plan for 2025. Taking in residents’ ability to pay, Marquis-Bissonnette instead proposed a tax ranging from 2.9 per cent to 3.18 per cent, which was the 10-year average of the plan.

“One thing is clear, the candidates proposing a tax reduction or forecasts under the indications of the long-term financial plan will specify where they intend to cut in terms of services to citizens, such as in the service of urban planning, service centres, or even in street repairs,” said Marquis-Bissonnette.

Photo caption: On completely opposite ends, Action Gatineau candidate Maude Marquis-Bissonnette proposed the highest residential tax hike among the seven candidates, as independent candidate Yves Ducharme suggested the lowest.

Photo credit: Courtesy of the candidates