William Crooks
Council members deliberate before the meeting begins, reviewing agenda items and preparing for discussions on key municipal issues

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Residents voiced concerns over road conditions, zoning regulations, and local infrastructure projects during the Feb. 10 Stanstead town council meeting, presided over by Mayor Jody Stone at the town hall. With just over ten residents in attendance, the question periods saw discussions on road access, tourism signage, and a controversial zoning issue that could impact a local business.

Road restrictions and infrastructure

One of the first questions of the evening came from a resident of Maple Street, who pressed council on the continued restrictions against truck traffic and the deteriorating condition of the road. “Are you finally going to remove the ‘No Truck’ restriction and pave the road?” the resident asked, highlighting that the asphalt had lasted for 58 years before its recent removal.

Mayor Stone acknowledged that the restriction was still in place according to provincial regulations. “If we want to lift it, we need to apply to the Ministry of Transport,” he explained, adding that the town would need to consider the possible negative impact of increased truck traffic on the neighbourhood. The resident argued that only a small number of trucks currently use the road, to which Stone responded, “We’ll continue looking into it.”

Another resident raised concerns about tourism visibility, pointing out that government effort had been invested in a nearby building without providing space for local signage. “If people don’t stop on their way down, they should at least see something on their way back,” he said, also advocating for designated space for Stanstead tourism material. Stone suggested that if a suitable location were available, it might be open to discussion.

Zoning issues threaten local gym

A particularly pressing matter was raised by the owner of a recently reopened gym in Stanstead. She expressed concern that due to zoning restrictions, she might be forced to close at the end of the month. “I don’t want to have to shut down,” she said, emphasizing the gym’s importance for both physical and mental health in the community. She also noted that she had collected nearly 300 signatures in support of keeping the gym open.

Director General Hughes Ménard explained that the issue stemmed from the gym operating in an accessory building, which is not permitted under current zoning laws. “We are very sensitive to this situation and want to help find a solution,” he said. Council members suggested that she submit a request for a zoning modification but cautioned that it would be a lengthy process.

“In the meantime, we need to make sure the building meets safety regulations, like having a bathroom,” Stone added. The gym owner questioned why a minor exemption wasn’t possible, but council clarified that the issue extended beyond a simple variance. “It’s a zoning question, and it opens the door to broader changes,” Stone said, encouraging further discussions to explore solutions.

New resident asks about housing incentive

A new resident inquired about Stanstead’s housing incentive program, which previously offered financial support to new homeowners. He was assured that although the program had officially ended in December, the council had extended it for six months while negotiating a new agreement with Desjardins. “If you applied within six months of moving in, you should be on the list,” a council member assured him.

Status of the former Del Monty hotel

A resident inquired about the status of the former Del Monty hotel, which has long been a point of discussion in the town. Director General Ménard provided an update, explaining that the town recently signed an agreement with a company planning to develop the site into affordable housing. “They have 18 months to secure funding,” Ménard said, emphasizing that the first priority will be obtaining grants and subsidies for potential tenants.

Ménard added that demolition work will be necessary before construction can begin. “The first step is to demolish what needs to be demolished,” he said. Some environmental considerations, including possible asbestos removal, must also be addressed. While the project requires maintaining the existing structure’s footprint due to zoning constraints, Ménard expressed optimism about the redevelopment.

“We just signed the agreement three weeks ago, so we are at the very beginning of the process,” he explained. The town has asked for regular updates from the developers. “We have requested monthly progress reports so that I can update council and keep the public informed,” Ménard said. He also noted that the name “Del Monty” is no longer being used for the project, stating, “We refer to it as 290 Dufferin Street now.”

Key agenda highlights

Beyond the question periods, the meeting addressed a range of municipal business, including infrastructure projects and financial planning.

• Public works and winter challenges: The town has faced difficulties with its infrastructure due to heavy snowfall and frequent repairs. “Our winter operations team has had its hands full with roadwork and pipe repairs,” said a council representative, noting that newer technologies are being used to minimize street disruption during repairs.
• Sewage capacity studies underway: Council reported that a study is being conducted to assess whether the town’s wastewater treatment facilities can handle future development. “We’ve seen an 8 per cent population increase since 2021,” Stone said. “We need to be sure our infrastructure can support further growth.”
• Tourism and beautification: Council discussed plans to redevelop a dilapidated property in Rock Island, transforming it into a public green space with river access. The town is applying for $150,000 in funding to support this initiative.
• Extended support for recycling program: The council approved a renewed agreement with Ressourcerie des Frontières to manage bulky waste collection. The program, which diverts items from landfills, will continue at an annual cost of roughly $34,000.
• Snow removal contract renewal: The town renewed its agreement with the Ministry of Transport for maintaining 9 km of provincial roads, securing $76,642 in annual funding.

Stone addresses Trump and tariffs

Near the end of the meeting, Mayor Stone expanded on the potential impact of U.S. tariffs under President Donald Trump, particularly regarding local businesses. “We’ve seen before how these policies can affect small towns like ours, especially those that rely on cross-border commerce,” he said. Stone emphasized that while Stanstead has a unique position as a border town, any disruption in trade could have significant economic consequences.

He noted that past tariffs had affected industries dependent on materials sourced from the U.S., including local manufacturers and suppliers. “If these tariffs return, it won’t just be the big businesses feeling the pinch—it’s going to impact everyone, from small business owners to consumers,” he added.

Stone also mentioned concerns about potential retaliatory tariffs from Canada. “If the Canadian government responds in kind, that could mean higher costs for goods coming into our region,” he said. “We need to stay informed and advocate for policies that support rather than hinder economic stability in border communities like ours.”

Looking ahead

As the meeting concluded, Stone reminded attendees of the town’s commitment to finding solutions for local issues, from road maintenance to business development. “We’re here to work with you,” he said. Residents left with assurances that their concerns were being heard, though some challenges, particularly zoning restrictions, would require further discussions and procedural steps.

The next town council meeting is scheduled for March 10, where updates on the zoning review, infrastructure projects, and tourism efforts are expected.