By Dylan Adams Lemaçon LJI Reporter
On December 9, 2024, the Rosemère Town Hall hosted the city council’s final meeting of the year, marking the culmination of a year filled with achievements and challenges. The evening featured both an extraordinary session, during which the 2025 budget and capital expenditures program were adopted, and a regular council meeting. Together, these sessions underscored the council’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and community development.
A Forward-Looking Budget
The extraordinary session, held before the regular meeting, was dedicated to adopting the city’s 2025 budget and the 2025–2029 capital expenditures program. Both were approved unanimously. The budget outlines the city’s financial plans for the coming year, including funding for key infrastructure projects, environmental initiatives, and community services. The five-year capital expenditures program reflects Rosemère’s long-term priorities, ensuring sustainable growth and continued investment in quality-of-life improvements for residents.The approved budget signals the council’s readiness to maintain its momentum heading into the new year.
Celebrating a Year of Accomplishments
Mayor Eric Westram opened the regular session by reflecting on the city’s accomplishments over the past year. He highlighted the immense success of the annual Guignolée (food drive), a community-led initiative that raised nearly $37,000 to support those in need during the holiday season. “I’m proud,” said Mayor Westram. “With a small population like ours, this isn’t nothing. My wholehearted thanks to you all.”
Another source of pride for the city is the Rosemère Library, which continues to earn high rankings and recognition for its services. “We owe all those awards to you—the wonderful residents, businesses, institutions, and staff who make Rosemère what it is,” the mayor added, attributing the city’s successes to its engaged and supportive community.
From community-driven initiatives to institutional achievements, Rosemère has much to celebrate as it wraps up the year.
A Smooth Agenda Approval
The regular meeting’s agenda proceeded efficiently, with all items receiving unanimous approval from the council. Key highlights included:
Urban Planning
The council approved minor exemptions and architectural integration plans for several projects, ensuring that new developments align with Rosemère’s urban planning guidelines. These decisions reflect the city’s commitment to preserving its character while accommodating thoughtful growth.
Regulations and Financing
Among the items approved were amendments to municipal regulations related to infrastructure projects and financing. Notably, the council adopted amendments increasing funding for library renovations and improvements to storm drainage systems in the Cerisiers sector. These projects demonstrate the city’s focus on both cultural enrichment and environmental sustainability.
Community Services and Contracts
The council also approved several contracts and initiatives aimed at enhancing municipal services. These included renewals for social media management, urban forestry programs, and maintenance contracts for public spaces. A particularly notable decision was the authorization of a contract to acquire the artwork *La sagesse des livres*, a piece that will add cultural value to the community.
Minimal Public Engagement
While the council worked through the comprehensive agenda, public participation remained low, with only one resident in attendance. As a result, both public question periods passed without any comments or inquiries. The quiet atmosphere allowed for a swift and focused session, with council members efficiently addressing each agenda item.
A Holiday Message from the Mayor
As the meeting drew to a close, Mayor Westram took the opportunity to share a heartfelt message with the community. “Please don’t stay alone during this time of the year,” he urged, encouraging residents to connect with others and support one another during the holiday season.
The mayor’s remarks reflected the spirit of togetherness that has defined much of Rosemère’s accomplishments this year. From the success of the Guignolée to the achievements of local institutions like the library, the community has shown its strength and resilience time and again.
Looking Ahead to 2025
The December 9 meeting marked the final session of 2024, but the council is already looking ahead to a busy and ambitious year in 2025. With the newly approved budget and capital expenditures program, the city is poised to continue its work on key infrastructure projects, environmental initiatives, and community services.
Among the priorities for the coming year are:
-Library Renovations: Funding has been allocated to enhance the library’s facilities, ensuring it remains a hub of learning and culture for residents.
-Storm Drainage Improvements:The Cerisiers sector will benefit from upgrades to its drainage systems, addressing long standing infrastructure concerns.
-Road Repairs and Maintenance: Projects like the refurbishment of Northcote and Wood streets will continue to improve the city’s transportation network.
These initiatives reflect the council’s commitment to addressing immediate needs while planning for long-term growth and sustainability.
Closing Reflections
As the council members adjourned for the year, the atmosphere was one of quiet satisfaction and optimism. The council’s ability to efficiently address the evening’s agenda while celebrating the community’s achievements underscored its dedication to Rosemère’s residents.
For those in attendance—or following along from home—the December 9 meeting was a reminder of what makes Rosemère unique: a community that combines small-town charm with a forward-thinking vision.
With the holidays around the corner and a new year on the horizon, the council’s final session of 2024 leaves a clear message: Rosemère is ready to embrace the future while cherishing the bonds that hold it together.