Photo by William Crooks
Stanstead Mayor Jody Stone and council members during the Dec. 9 meeting as budget discussions took centre stage

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Stanstead’s Dec. 9 monthly council meeting, presided over by Mayor Jody Stone and attended by eight residents, centered on the unveiling of the 2025 municipal budget and updates on pressing local matters. Key issues included the budget’s implications for residents, rising Sûreté du Québec (SQ) policing costs, and community infrastructure projects.

Budget focus: Balancing tax rates amid increased property values

The new 2025 budget reflects a significant shift in property values following the release of updated evaluations. Residential properties saw an average increase of 44.7 per cent in value, while commercial and industrial properties rose by 30 per cent. To counterbalance this and prevent substantial hikes in tax bills, the council reduced the tax rates.

“The general and agricultural property tax rate, which was previously set at 75.5 cents per $100 of evaluation, has been lowered to 54.4 cents,” explained General Director Hughes Ménard. Commercial and industrial tax rates have also decreased to 84 cents and 95 cents, respectively.

The council emphasized that the adjustments were designed to maintain fairness. “Our goal was to ensure the burden on taxpayers remains manageable while meeting the needs of the town,” said Stone. The decrease in tax rates reflects the council’s proactive response to the surge in property values, an issue that could have resulted in disproportionate tax increases if left unchecked.

The special economic development tax, however, remains fixed at its current rate. This tax supports key projects outlined in the town’s triennial capital investment plan. For 2025, the projected increase of $14,500 in economic development revenue will fund initiatives such as new business incentives and infrastructure enhancements aimed at boosting local commerce.

The budget also outlines strategic funding allocations for infrastructure, including the ongoing maintenance of critical water wells and planned upgrades for Phelps Street. According to council members, these projects will enhance the town’s capacity to accommodate growth and improve service delivery. “These investments in infrastructure are not just about maintaining what we have,” said Stone. “They’re about positioning Stanstead for future opportunities.”

Breaking down the SQ tax rate

A significant point of discussion was the policing costs associated with the SQ. These costs, which represent a 5 per cent increase from the previous year, prompted questions from The Record during the meeting. Despite the increase in service costs, the property tax rate for SQ services has been reduced to 6.17 cents per $100, down from 9.08 cents in 2024. The reduction was made possible by higher overall property valuations spreading the cost across a broader base.

Mayor Stone reassured attendees that the town’s commitment to public safety remains steadfast. “We’re taking steps to ensure the SQ continues to deliver reliable service without overburdening our residents,” he explained. The council also hinted at exploring potential cost-sharing models with nearby towns to further mitigate rising expenses.

Transparency and community engagement

To further clarify the budget, council members presented a detailed breakdown, including new measures to improve transparency. The budget presentation included a visual comparison of historical tax rates and the anticipated benefits of planned infrastructure projects. “We want residents to see exactly where their tax dollars are going,” noted one councillor.

Additionally, the council highlighted improvements in financial reporting practices, which will include quarterly updates on budget execution. This effort aims to foster greater trust and collaboration between the administration and the community.

Community initiatives and public works

The council reviewed various ongoing and upcoming projects. Seasonal decorations, a seemingly small effort, have been warmly received. “Residents have really appreciated the extra effort this year,” said one resident, referencing the enhanced Christmas decorations that now include additional lighting and new installations in public spaces.

Public works also tackled critical issues, including water main repairs on Maple Street and valve maintenance. These efforts aim to support the installation of water meters in compliance with government directives. “We’re required to install 65 water meters, and this preparatory work ensures we meet that target efficiently,” explained Stone.

To ensure timely and efficient repairs, the council has partnered with local contractors, leveraging their expertise to address issues such as water leaks and aging infrastructure. These collaborations have already resulted in cost savings and faster turnaround times for essential work.

In other infrastructure news, progress continues on the new fire station, with construction bids set to close in January. “We’re optimistic about competitive pricing,” remarked a council member, citing favourable market conditions.

The station is part of a broader initiative to modernize emergency services in the area. Once completed, it will enhance response times and improve coordination with regional partners.

Recreational developments

The town’s parks and recreational facilities also featured prominently in the discussions. Plans are underway to improve skating rinks at Memorial Park and Parc des Générations. Innovative measures, such as using thick white tarps to prevent sunlight from melting the ice, are being tested. “We’re always looking for ways to enhance community spaces,” said a council representative.

The council also authorized a joint funding application with the MRC de Memphrémagog for a bike-sharing program. This initiative aims to promote active transportation and improve access to local amenities. “The proposed system would benefit both residents and visitors by providing eco-friendly travel options,” a councillor noted.

In addition to the bike-sharing program, the council is exploring ways to expand walking trails and improve signage to make Stanstead more accessible to tourists and locals alike. “We want Stanstead to be a hub for outdoor activities year-round,” said a council member.

Commitment to affordable housing

Stanstead reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the housing crisis by supporting the creation of a regional social utility trust. This project, which includes collaboration with neighbouring municipalities, seeks to develop affordable housing solutions. “It’s a complex but necessary initiative to ensure sustainable living options for all,” remarked Stone.

The trust will operate by acquiring land and developing housing projects that balance affordability with quality. Funds for the initiative will be sourced from a combination of municipal budgets and provincial grants, ensuring that financial pressures on the town remain manageable.

Acknowledging community contributions

The meeting concluded with accolades for various community efforts, including the town’s annual parade and initiatives at the Stanstead Manor. Council members expressed gratitude to volunteers and organizers, highlighting the importance of such events in fostering community spirit.

One highlight was a recent outreach event at the manor, where council members delivered treats and engaged with residents. “It was heartwarming to see how much the residents appreciated the visit,” said a councillor. “These connections remind us of the value of community engagement.”

The council also praised the success of the town’s holiday market, which drew visitors from across the region. Vendors reported strong sales, and attendees expressed appreciation for the festive atmosphere and diverse offerings.

The meeting, lasting just over an hour and a half, was adjourned near 8:30 p.m.