budget

Surpluses in Gaspé, Chandler, and Bonaventure

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – The Town of Gaspé has a $3.1 million surplus for the 2024 fiscal year on a $40 million budget. However, the town did draw $1.3 million from the surplus to balance the 2025 budget.
Additional revenues of approximately $2 million were added: $900,000 came from the strong real estate market, including property taxes and renovations carried out on buildings last year, and a retroactive payment of $500,000 in lieu of taxes since 2022 for the construction of the new Ministry of Transportation service centre, making up the bulk of the additional revenue.

In addition, the milder winter and unfilled positions within the municipal administration generated savings. The debt increased from $45 million to $51.6 million.

“I asked our auditors if there are any red flags we should be seeing. Are we investing too much? Is the debt too high? Is the surplus too high? No. All the signs are green, according to our auditors. I’m reassured,” says Gaspé Mayor Daniel Côté.

For its part, Chandler recorded a surplus of $681,000 on a budget of $13.5 million.
With that amount the town’s accumulated surplus will almost reach $1 million, something not seen in Chandler for a very long time.

“This hasn’t been seen in a long time. We’re proud of our work. We made big decisions. We turned services that weren’t profitable into profitable,” says the Mayor of Chandler Gilles Daraîche. The elected official points out that in 2022, there was only $130,000 in the accumulated surplus.

“We also have a working capital of $600,000. There are certain projects that we don’t need to borrow for. The winters are less harsh, so we’re saving on equipment. Building permits brought in an additional $78,000,” explains Mr. Daraîche.

A turnaround in Bonaventure, brings about a surplus of $136,000 on a budget of $7 million for the 2024 fiscal year. In 2023, the town recorded a loss of $119,000. The unallocated surplus now stands at $222,504.

The town’s total debt stands at $24 million. However, the portion attributable to citizens, the net debt, is $14.2 million, an increase of $913,000 compared to 2023.

The Mayor of Bonaventure, Pierre Gagnon believes the town’s financial situation has greatly improved over the past year, thanks to tighter spending controls, reduced investments, and a diligent search for government assistance.

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A $30 Million Puzzle at the CISSS de la Gaspésie

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – The CISSS de la Gaspésie has proposed a $566 million budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, which began on April 1. It’s a balanced budget, but it faces a major challenge to achieve it because cuts will be required to do so.

President and CEO Martin Pelletier indicates that it’s a closed budget.

“In the measures we’ve tabled, there’s a budget restriction target of $30 million, but there’s a $20 million measure regarding the liberation of independent workers, which will be difficult to achieve,” emphasizes Mr. Pelletier. There remains $10 million to be found: $1 million will come from the closure of various collection centres located in leased spaces, such as the one at Place Jacques-Cartier in Gaspé, which had drawn criticism.

However, the three collection centres in Baie-des-Chaleurs will remain open, as the CISSS has no availability in its own premises.

Among other cost-saving measures, tightening working hours is expected to contribute to the savings goal.

“There are measures to review work teams at the clinical and administrative levels, even though our supervision rate is very low. There are measures that provide for non-replacements. Posted positions will not be (filled). Ultimately, there will be fewer hours worked in the coming year to raise this $10 million outside of independent labour,” explains Mr. Pelletier.

There is no question of reducing services at the 24/7 emergency departments of CLSCs in communities like Grande-Vallée, Murdochville, and Paspébiac.

Even though the CEO has been firm on this point since last fall, elected officials, particularly in the Estran sector, remain concerned, especially since there are strong protests for similar emergency rooms in Trois-Pistoles and Pohénégamook, in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region.

“We’re not touching these emergency rooms. There’s no provincial signal to close smaller emergency rooms. We have specific characteristics that make us more isolated than elsewhere. It’s harder to say we could close these emergency rooms. And when we consider a nighttime closure, a doctor often comes in for 24 hours as a backup. The staff we would save at night and who would be redeployed means we’re not really saving money. It would take a total closure to save money, and that’s out of the question. It’s a question of access to care across our vast territory, something we’re trying to explain to head office,” Mr. Pelletier reaffirms.

The debate over recognizing the specificities of the Gaspé remains an ongoing battle.
“The idea is to have basic services throughout the territory for 80,000 people with four local networks. To make this efficient, it would require one hospital for 80,000 people. There are places where we can do better and with new clinical practices. We must adapt to this, but the fact remains that there are basic services that require a cost to maintain,” Mr. Pelletier explains.

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Gaspé Peninsula CISSS needs $20M to balance its budget

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – The Gaspé Peninsula Integrated Health and Social Services Centre (CISSS) must find $20 million to balance its $560 million budget allocated by Santé Québec for the 2025-2026 fiscal year.
“That’s what we’re currently finalizing,” says President and CEO of the CISSS Martin Pelletier. “We need to present a balanced budget, and we’re $20 million short of last year’s actual spending. That’s going to involve some tough choices,” admits Mr. Pelletier.

The CISSS is one of the institutions most affected by the budgetary constraints, with Santé Québec requesting the equivalent of a 4.6% cut of its overall budget, the largest share in the province.
“It’s a lot for us. If we didn’t have the independent workforce, which costs $25 million, we wouldn’t be talking about cost reduction. We have no choice but to use it, because otherwise, it would result in service disruptions,” explains the CEO.

The CEO explains that the calculation method is based on clinical financial performance. Mr. Pelletier cites the example of the obstetrics department. “The number of births in the Gaspé versus the cost, makes a baby’s (delivery and care) cost higher than elsewhere and is considered inefficient. It’s a parametric calculation done at head office. We’re at a disadvantage from the start because we have four hospitals in a large area for a population of 80,000.” In the city, a single hospital can optimally serve 80,000 residents,” he says.

Recognizing the unique nature of the Gaspé Peninsula healthcare network continues with Santé Québec. “This is a reality that we will debate and that is well known to Santé Québec’s senior management. But the order has been placed, and we must submit a balanced budget,” explains Mr. Pelletier.

Testing Centre

After being criticized since its establishment at Place Jacques-Cartier last fall, the Gaspé Peninsula CISSS relocated the testing centre to the former emergency room at Gaspé hospital on June 2.
The idea of conducting blood tests in a shopping centre has generated criticism from users due to accessibility issues, particularly for people with reduced mobility.

Financial constraints led to the decision to move this centre to a site belonging to the CISSS. Similar changes will be implemented in other local networks, except in the Baie-des-Chaleurs, where lack of space prevents the repatriation of collection centres.

Dentistry

After being criticized since its establishment at Place Jacques-Cartier last fall, the Gaspé Peninsula CISSS relocated the testing centre to the former emergency room at Gaspé hospital on June 2.

The idea of conducting blood tests in a shopping centre has generated criticism from users due to accessibility issues, particularly for people with reduced mobility.

Financial constraints led to the decision to move this centre to a site belonging to the CISSS. Similar changes will be implemented in other local networks, except in the Baie-des-Chaleurs, where lack of space prevents the repatriation of collection centres.

Dentistry

Aware of the need for dentistry throughout the Gaspé Peninsula, the CISSS is focusing on properly operating the centre located in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts.

Regularly on social media, Gaspesians bring attention to the limited access to a dentist in the region. Residents must travel to Matane, Rimouski, or even Quebec City for treatment

The President and CEO of the CISSS must first self-finance the Sainte-Anne-des-Monts centre. “We had money to start the project. Now we’re in the self-financing phase. The challenge is that we’re using independent labour, which costs more than employees. Revenues must increase significantly to offset these costs,” says Mr. Pelletier. Grande-Vallée and Port-Daniel-Gascons were the other targeted sectors.

“It’s still in the planning phases, but we need to self-finance Sainte-Anne-des-Monts to be able to move on to the next stage,” the director concluded.

Gaspé Peninsula CISSS needs $20M to balance its budget Read More »

Deux-Montagnes Council Highlights: Sound Finances, REM Update, and Community Concerns Addressed  

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by Dylan Adams Lemaçon LJI Reporter

The City of Deux-Montagnes held its regular monthly council meeting this Wednesday at City Hall on chemin d’Oka. Presided over by Mayor Denis Martin, the evening covered a full agenda, with a focus on financial transparency, infrastructure priorities, and updates on the long-anticipated REM light rail system.

City Posts $1.3M Surplus in 2024

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2024 financial report by city treasurer Julie Guindon. Citizens in the gallery applauded after hearing that Deux-Montagnes ended the fiscal year with a $1.3 million surplus, outperforming its initial expenditure budget of $30.42 million, finishing the year at approximately $30.53 million.

Mayor Martin praised the city’s “rigorous and responsible” financial management, noting that while costs—especially infrastructure—continue to rise, the city is strategically investing where most needed. For example, road repairs sometimes require full underground rebuilds rather than simple patches, prompting the city to reallocate budgets toward more impactful projects.

The surplus was primarily attributed to stronger-than-expected real estate transfer taxes (+$900,000) and additional provincial subsidies (+$225,000). The city now holds $4 million in uncommitted operating surplus, and $3.5 million in reserves for future projects like water services, flood protection, and public transit infrastructure.

Key Investments in 2024 and Priorities for 2025

In 2024, the city invested nearly $13.9 million, including:

$9M – Retention basin and dike

$1.64M – Street repairs

$1.16M – Park improvements

$780K – Sound barrier phase 1

$840K – Vehicle purchases

$330K – Public works and leisure equipment

Looking ahead to 2025, Deux-Montagnes plans to complete the Centennial Park project, phase 2 of the sound barrier, major library renovations, stormwater infrastructure upgrades, and more street rehabilitation.

REM Update: Optimism for October Opening

During the reading of the order of the day, the council gave an update on the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) station. Mayor Martin said about the REM that, “for now, they’re optimistic” that the Deux-Montagnes REM stop will open as scheduled in October 2025.

When asked by a resident, Mr. Turgeon, about costs related to the REM, the mayor noted that a new agreement was recently signed that is more favorable to the city compared to previous versions.

Elections, Staffing Changes, and Labour Agreements

With municipal elections coming in November, council approved salaries for electoral staff. Other notable decisions included the hiring of Martin Racine as assistant city clerk, and ratifying the new 2024–2028 collective agreement with the city’s blue-collar union (CUPE Local 985). Mayor Martin called it a “win-win for all parties” and jokingly offered to send their negotiators to resolve the STM strike in Montreal.

Disciplinary actions were issued for two employees, and several staffing confirmations and hirings were also finalized.

Citizens Raise Concerns on Safety and Transit

During the public question period, Gina Parente expressed concern about an abandoned building where she’s seen suspicious activity. The council responded that although they can’t immediately demolish it, they will ensure it’s more securely barricaded.

Andrew Brown, another resident, asked about adding bicycle parking at the town hall, highlighting the city’s own efforts to promote sustainable transport. The council responded positively, acknowledging the idea’s value.

From healthy finances to steady REM progress and citizen engagement, the June 2025 Deux-Montagnes council meeting reflected a city preparing responsibly for growth while addressing the day-to-day concerns of its residents.

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Rosemère City Council Meeting: Citizens Weigh In on Budget, Development, and Quality of Life

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By Dylan adams lemacon LJI Reporter

Rosemère’s city council met on June 9, and once again, the conversation reflected the town’s strong civic spirit. From financial transparency to urban planning and community concerns, the evening was filled with meaningful dialogue between council members and residents.

Mayor Eric Westram kicked off the meeting with a nod to the town’s recent public consultations. He thanked residents for their strong participation in the online climate change adaptation survey, saying, “The participation rate is very high, we can see how much this is important to you.” He also noted that 116 people attended the in-person consultation on the future of Place Rosemère and reminded others that feedback is still welcome through an online survey. Before diving into the agenda, he took a moment to wish all dads a happy Father’s Day in advance, adding, “You play an essential role in the lives of your family.”

Council then moved on to the evening’s main business. One item, concerning the replacement of two doors at 303 chemin de la Grande-Côte, was withdrawn from the agenda before it was officially adopted.

A major focus of the evening was the presentation of Rosemère’s 2024 financial report. The numbers tell a positive story: the city recorded a surplus of just over $1.3 million. That surplus came from a combination of increased revenues, mainly through transfer taxes, and reduced spending. When consolidated with partner organizations like the regional water and police services, the total climbs to $1.44 million. About half of the city’s reserve funds are now earmarked for infrastructure and managing future expenses. The city plans to invest $500,000 of the surplus back into those reserves. A full breakdown is available on the city’s website.

Things got more contentious during discussions on urban planning. Two minor exemption requests stood out. One allowed a smaller side setback for a home on rue Maplecrest. The other, on rue Lucerne, approved a detached garage in the front yard despite the property not meeting standard zoning rules. Local resident Sophie Cardinal questioned why these exemptions were being granted when she had previously been denied a similar request. Mayor Westram replied that the Lucerne case represented “a serious prejudice,” which justified the exception. The exchange ended without resolution.

Later in the meeting, Pierre Dubois returned to follow up on a neighborhood safety issue he raised last month. His concern centers on a poorly visible pedestrian path that remains unaddressed.

Another resident, Muhammad Ali, raised questions about the financial presentation. He felt it lacked detail, particularly on how budgeted funds compare to actual spending so far this year. He also asked why summer day camps have been scaled back despite the surplus. Mayor Westram cited staffing shortages and scheduling issues with local schools as major roadblocks. Ali also pointed out visible tension among some councillors, noting that “the atmosphere is quite tense between the three elected officials,” and called for more collaboration to move projects forward.

Finally, longtime attendee Sylvie Hamel raised concerns about Rosemère’s growing population and increased traffic. She said she chose to live in Rosemère for its calm atmosphere, and she’s worried it’s starting to change. In response, Mayor Westram emphasized the importance of planning ahead, especially if Rosemère is to eventually welcome larger projects, like perhaps, one day, a train line. “We need a vision,” he said.

The meeting wrapped up after a few more resident questions, with one clear takeaway: Rosemère’s citizens are paying attention—and they expect to be heard.

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St. Laurent adopts $83 million budget

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By Joel Goldenberg
The Suburban

St. Laurent council, at its October council meeting, adopted a local $83.1 million budget and $96.2 million 10-year 2025-2034 capital investment program — the borough budget was $81.3 million last year.

A borough statement points out that $997,000 was taken from the surplus to balance the budget. The budget is being forwarded to Montreal city council for adoption.

“With the arrival of the REM and several other major urban mobility projects that will establish St. Laurent as a strategic hub, our community is on the cusp of a transformation that will have significant positive impacts on its attractiveness and its economy,” said Mayor Alan DeSousa. “It was therefore important for the borough to formulate a budget capable of effectively supporting this growth and completing the projects under its responsibility without cutting services or putting added pressure on the community. The latter has been challenged by inflation in recent years, so we decided to make use of a portion of the surplus to reduce local taxes and lessen the impact of increasing property values. We hope this measure will allow some breathing room for our community in 2025 as inflation continues to slowly but surely recede to a desirable level that will restore balance.”

Regarding the 10-Year Capital Investment Program for various projects, “by completion, these projects will represent $201.7 million in investments to benefit the community.”

Regarding the local budget, it includes $14.9 million for general administration (up $100,000 from last year); $1.5 million for public security ($100,000 less than last year); and $5.9 million for environmental health (up $200,000 from last year), which includes maintenance of local waterworks and the sewage system.”

As well, “$1.9 million is slated for health and well-being, $6.9 million for land use planning, urban planning and development, and $31 million for recreation and culture, including park maintenance; and $21 million is reserved for transport, which includes roadwork and snow removal.”

The statement added that the borough was able, despite inflation this year, “to reduce the local taxation rate for 2025, dropping it from $0.0674 to $0.0623 per $100 segment of assessed value.” The complete property tax rate will be known when the City of Montreal budget is passed.

Other aspects of the budget:

• “Transfers from the City of Montreal, including anticipated income from construction permits: $59,258,300.” The amount last year was $58,720,900.

• “Local tax income: $18,110,700,” compared to $17,478,800 last year.

• “Local fee income: $4,796,800.”

• “Surplus allocation: $997,000.”

Total: $83,162,800

Regarding the Capital Investment Program and operating budget, the 2025-27 priorities include:

• Upgrades to the Complexe sportif and the Centre des loisirs.”

• “Upgrades to the spaces at the Bibliothèque du Vieux-Saint-Laurent.”

• “Repairs to paving, sidewalks and curbs on the local network.”

• “Developments in various parks.”

• “Development of Phase 1 of Parc Bois-Franc.”

• “Upgrades to the Chamberland and St. Laurent park chalets.”

• “Repairs to several park trails and sports fields.”

• “Replacement of play modules.”

“Start of the replacement of the swimming pools in Chamberland, Hartenstein and Saint-Laurent parks.”

• “Restoration work in the Parc Marcel-Laurin woodland.”

• “Continuation of the conversion to LED lighting in various parks.”

• “Upgrades to various parking lots.”

• Work to ensure the safety and user-friendliness of the amenities on various streets.” n

St. Laurent adopts $83 million budget Read More »

Rosemère Council Wraps Up 2024 with Budget Approval and Holiday Cheer  

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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.  

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Editorial: It’s broke, don’t fix it

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Photo Ivan de Jacquelin

The Link
Local Journalism Initiative

On Feb. 5, the Quebec government confirmed that the Olympic Stadium’s roof repair would cost $870 million. 

Ever since the roof was completed in 1987, it has never really worked as intended. Portions of the roof notoriously collapsed in 1991 and 1999, yet the city believes a facelift will solve the impending dome doom. 

Another option for the Olympic Stadium is to entirely demolish it, a task proving harder than imagined. Politicians, engineers and board members are unsurprisingly against the demolition and have said that demolishing the stadium could run up to $2 billion, despite financial and engineering experts questioning the exact figure. 

In 2017, preserving the Olympic Stadium was justified through its heritage status. Since “my father, your father, paid for it, built it. […] It’s impossible, foolish to think about dismantling it,” said Michel Labrecque, head of the Olympic installation board at the time.

At the heart of the current roof renovation project is a blatant disregard for larger problems directly impacting citizens.

Clearly, Labrecque’s reasoning is that the roof is an ongoing issue which needs a solution since past generations paid dearly for it. Yet, the worry for other long-standing issues like basic human needs—cost of living adjustments, the healthcare and housing crises, unjust pay for public sector workers—are not as dire. 

But, sure, fixing a roof that will likely cave in with enough snow mounted on top of it for a couple car shows a year should be our utmost priority.

Speaking of car shows, the empty promise is to generate revenue for the city through additional events that could be held thanks to the renovation. Tourism minister Caroline Proulx said the renovated stadium could accommodate large shows for mega-celebrities like Taylor Swift or Beyoncé. With all these potential events, it is estimated the stadium itself could generate a whopping $1.5 billion over 10 years—or barely half of the construction fees. It’s to note that the ideal outcome for the roof would be that it lives to see 50 years. The future is short for the Olympic Stadium.

It’s funny to see the Legault government concerned with revenue when actions such as a decrease in funding for Montreal’s English universities—and the consequent diminishing enrollment numbers—will have the opposite effect. 

Less student traffic will have consequences on the workforce down the line but, immediately, neighbouring downtown shops and restaurants reliant on student traffic will be greatly affected. The impact of the decision to cut funding alone has had repercussions, but the benefits from extra events remain to be seen.

The other promise was for housing to be constructed in the residential neighbourhood surrounding Olympic Park. At the end of the day, it is solely a promise given by a man who has shelled out numerous empty ones.

The estimated revenues for the stadium, too, are a promise, and they will likely not be as high as predicted. Cost overruns have plagued the Olympic Stadium since its inception. When construction began in 1970, the budget had been set for $134 million, but the final costs were well over a billion dollars.

The Big O might need a new top, but it’s a bottomless money pit at best.

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