Deux-Montagnes

Deux-Montagnes Honors 12-Year-Old Charlie Godin for Heroic Actions During House Fire

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Maria Diamantis
LJI Journalist

The Ville de Deux-Montagnes Fire Department has formally recognized Charlie Godin, a 12-year-old resident, for her quick thinking and responsible actions during a fire that broke out in her home on January 2, 2024.
A Brave and Decisive Response
When the fire started, Charlie immediately took charge of the situation, ensuring the safe evacuation of her siblings and identifying the fire extinguisher for her mother, who was able to use it to contain the flames before they spread further. Her ability to remain calm and take the right steps in an emergency situation helped prevent further danger.
In recognition of her poise and decisive actions, Fire Prevention Officer Ludovick Roberge presented Charlie with a Certificate of Bravery on January 24, 2024. This award highlights the importance of individual actions in fire safety and acknowledges how Charlie’s response played a crucial role in protecting her family.
A Community Recognition
The Ville de Deux-Montagnes Fire Department commended Charlie for demonstrating exemplary fire safety instincts, reinforcing the value of awareness and preparedness in emergency situations. Fire safety experts emphasize that knowing what to do in a fire can make a critical difference, and Charlie’s response serves as an inspiring example for others.
Her recognition also brings attention to the importance of fire prevention education, which helps children and families understand the necessary steps to take in case of an emergency. Fire officials encourage families to discuss fire evacuation plans, ensure smoke alarms are functioning properly, and familiarize everyone in the household with basic safety procedures.
A Well-Deserved Honor
Charlie Godin’s actions reflect remarkable presence of mind and a strong instinct for safety. By making the right decisions under pressure, she helped protect her loved ones and contributed to containing the fire.
The Ville de Deux-Montagnes and its Fire Department have rightfully celebrated Charlie’s courage and sense of responsibility, recognizing that her quick thinking helped prevent a potentially more serious situation.

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Community Engagement and Youth Development: Spring Break Activities in Deux-Montagnes

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Maria Diamantis
LJI Journalist

The 2025 municipal calendar is set to be distributed door-to-door by Canada Post by the beginning of next week. In the meantime, residents can access a digital version of the calendar on the City’s website. Officials appreciate the public’s patience and understanding as the distribution process takes place. The municipal calendar serves as an essential resource, keeping residents informed about community events, initiatives, and civic responsibilities throughout the year.
As part of this year’s efforts to foster community engagement and youth development, a skateboarding and scooter workshop will take place on Wednesday, March 5, providing children and youth with an opportunity to explore these action sports. The event, led by the experienced TAZ team, aims to introduce participants to the fundamentals in a fun and dynamic setting, while also promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.
By providing a structured and inclusive environment, the workshop not only encourages physical activity but also reinforces values of perseverance, teamwork, and confidence. The initiative reflects the city’s commitment to investing in programs that enhance the well-being of young residents and create opportunities for social interaction and skill-building.
The workshop is designed for both beginners and those looking to improve their skills. Experienced instructors will guide participants through essential techniques in a safe and engaging environment. Equipment will be available on-site for those without their own, though all attendees are required to bring their own helmets for safety reasons.
Registration for the event is available through the City’s website under the “Inscriptions” section. Due to anticipated high demand, early registration is recommended.
With an emphasis on physical activity, civic engagement, and personal development, this Spring Break event promises to be a highlight of the seasonal calendar. By offering young participants an exciting and educational experience, Deux-Montagnes continues to reinforce the importance of accessible and meaningful community programs.

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Tax Relief in Deux-Montagnes: City Slashes Rates Amid Property Value Surge

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Maria Diamantis
LJI Journalist

Deux-Montagnes made headlines this week with the adoption of its groundbreaking 2025 budget, which aims to protect residents from skyrocketing property values. In an extraordinary session on December 12, the municipal council approved a dramatic reduction in the residential property tax rate, dropping it from $0.76 to $0.56 per $100 of valuation. This bold move is designed to cushion homeowners against the financial strain caused by a sharp increase in property assessments.
For over half of the city’s residents, the new tax rate means either a decrease in their property tax bill or a modest increase capped at 1.8%. The impact is particularly significant for average homeowners, with single-family homes now assessed at $454,000, up from $316,800. Without the tax rate adjustment, the typical homeowner would have faced a $970 spike in annual taxes. Instead, the increase has been limited to just $59. This modest rise is further offset by an 11% reduction in waste collection fees, alongside the freezing of charges for essential services such as water supply and snow removal.
Mayor Denis Martin hailed the budget as a triumph for the city’s residents, praising the council’s commitment to balancing fiscal responsibility with affordability. “Faced with a remarkable increase in property values, we acted decisively to keep the tax rate significantly below inflation,” he said. “Deux-Montagnes is financially sound, and we are proud to reduce the tax burden on our citizens while continuing to enhance the services they rely on. This responsible budget is the result of tireless efforts by our management team, despite the challenges of rising consumer prices.”
The city also addressed the reasons behind the soaring property assessments, reminding residents that these valuations are mandated every three years under Quebec’s Municipal Taxation Act. The evaluations are conducted by independent firms accredited by the Ordre des évaluateurs agréés du Québec, following rigorous professional standards. Residents seeking clarity on the process are encouraged to consult a detailed document published by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
The 2025 budget is more than just a tax strategy—it is a roadmap for transformational investments across the city. A multi-million-dollar upgrade to water and sewer systems is set to modernize essential infrastructure, while a massive resurfacing project will rejuvenate local streets. The completion of Centennial Park promises not only public access to water but also eco-friendly facilities that position the area as a hub for recreational tourism. Meanwhile, the long-awaited second phase of the city’s noise barrier project is on track for completion, addressing a key concern for residents. In a move to promote green transportation, Deux-Montagnes will also introduce a bike-sharing network under the popular BIXI program.
With this budget, Deux-Montagnes has set itself apart as a city unafraid to take bold action in the face of economic challenges. By slashing tax rates, investing in critical projects, and prioritizing sustainability, the city is charting a future that balances progress with affordability. This historic budget signals not just relief for residents but a vision for a thriving and resilient Deux-Montagnes.

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New Program to Support Vulnerable Youth in Lac-des-Deux-Montagnes

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Maria Diamantis, LJI journalist

In an effort to strengthen community support for vulnerable youth, the Quebec government has expanded the Ma famille, Ma communauté program to include services for young people aged 13 to 17 in Lac-des-Deux-Montagnes. This initiative, which has already seen success in the Thérèse-De Blainville area, aims to prevent the need for youth placements in foster care or reduce the impact when such placements are necessary.
The program focuses on creating a network of care around vulnerable youth and their families, involving key community members such as family members, social workers, healthcare professionals, educators, and local organizations. By working together, these stakeholders ensure that decisions about a young person’s living situation are made in their best interest, prioritizing safety and well-being.
Lionel Carmant, Minister responsible for Social Services, expressed his enthusiasm for the program’s success and the positive impact it has had in other regions. He noted that this expansion reflects the government’s commitment to putting the needs of children first: “I am thrilled to see the community in Lac-des-Deux-Montagnes come together to support our youth. Programs like Ma famille, Ma communauté are vital in ensuring that vulnerable adolescents receive the care and support they need.”
Local representatives have also praised the initiative. Benoît Charette, MNA for Deux-Montagnes and Minister responsible for the Laurentides region, highlighted the strong sense of collaboration that defines the program: “The solidarity and commitment of our community are key to helping at-risk youth thrive. This program will offer them a better future by providing a support system that goes beyond traditional interventions.”
The expansion is also welcomed by Sylvie d’Amours, MNA for Mirabel, who emphasized the program’s collaborative nature. “This initiative brings together various community resources to create a safe and nurturing environment for teenagers, helping them to grow and succeed. It’s a collective effort that will build a stronger future for our young people,” she said.
Julie Delaney, President and CEO of CISSS des Laurentides, added that the success of Ma famille, Ma communauté in other regions bodes well for its impact in Lac-des-Deux-Montagnes. “We’ve seen firsthand how this program can transform the lives of vulnerable youth by surrounding them with care and compassion. I’m excited to see it expand and reach even more young people and their families.”
The expansion of Ma famille, Ma communauté to Lac-des-Deux-Montagnes demonstrates the Quebec government’s ongoing efforts to ensure that young people receive the support they need from their communities. By building strong, collaborative networks, the program aims to provide long-term solutions for at-risk youth, giving them the opportunity to thrive in a safe and supportive environment.

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Flood Zone Shake-Up: Major Changes Announced Ahead of October 21 Info Session

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Maria Diamantis, LJI journalist

Regulatory Framework for Flood Zones: Information Session on October 21 at 6:30 PM at the Legion Hall in Deux-Montagnes
The Montreal Metropolitan Community (CMM) has unveiled the preliminary mapping of new flood zones as part of the Quebec government’s initiative to modernize the regulatory framework for waterway management. This map is currently preliminary, with no legal value, and is subject to change until the final flood zone maps are adopted, which is expected in 2025.
The modernization of this regulatory framework is seen as positive news for municipalities like Deux-Montagnes, which have recently installed protective dikes. The new regulations will officially recognize these dikes, but cities must first prove that their flood protection infrastructure (OPI) is safe and meets the highest standards.
“A new regulatory framework is essential, but it must be adjusted to give us more flexibility in its application and ensure consistency with the realities on the ground. It should allow for the development of at-risk areas with more resilient, adapted infrastructure, while minimizing the impact on the population. Moreover, given the number of buildings situated behind protective infrastructure, it is important for the government to clarify the conditions that will reduce the precautionary zone width to 10 meters and ensure that all areas protected by an OPI are recognized when the regulations come into effect,” emphasized Denis Martin, the mayor of Deux-Montagnes.
Information Session on October 21
Like many cities and municipalities in Quebec, Deux-Montagnes has numerous questions about the modernization of the waterway management framework, particularly regarding the method for determining flood zones. The city recognizes that the release of the preliminary maps may cause concern among residents living in flood-prone areas. To address these concerns, an information session has been scheduled with CMM representatives on October 21 at 6:30 PM at the Legion Hall, located at 141 chemin du Grand-Moulin.

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Uncovering Deux-Montagnes’ History: The Journées de la culture Adventure!

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Maria Diamantis

LJI journalist

As part of the Journées de la culture taking place on September 28 and 29, the City of Deux-Montagnes invites its residents and visitors to participate in a unique event designed to connect the community with its rich heritage. Through an open-air interpretation circuit, participants will have the opportunity to explore the city’s historical landmarks, learning about significant moments that have shaped the local identity. This event underscores the importance of civic engagement and cultural preservation, encouraging everyone to take pride in the city’s legacy.

This initiative reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to promoting cultural awareness and fostering a sense of belonging among its residents. The interpretation circuit covers approximately five kilometers, making it accessible by foot, bicycle, or car, and is designed to be explored independently. Participants will visit eight historically significant locations around Deux-Montagnes, each marked with panels containing valuable insights about the city’s past. The information provided on these panels serves as a foundation for the multiple-choice questionnaire that forms part of the event, encouraging participants to engage actively with the material.

This event is more than a leisurely tour; it is an opportunity for citizens to deepen their understanding of their community’s historical landscape. From the exterior of the library to the gazebo at City Hall, and from Parc Bélair, home to an old locomotive, to the Petite école jaune, each location has been carefully selected for its historical significance. As participants move through the circuit, they will gain a broader appreciation for how these landmarks contribute to the city’s cultural narrative.

To add to the excitement, participants can enter a draw to win one of three gift sets by submitting their completed questionnaires. Submissions are due by October 4 and can be handed in at the library or sent via email. This small but meaningful gesture serves as an additional incentive for participants to engage fully with the event while offering a reward for their efforts.

The city’s dedication to preserving and celebrating its history is evident in the organization of this event, which combines education, recreation, and civic pride. In doing so, Deux-Montagnes ensures that its cultural heritage remains a vital part of community life, inspiring future generations to value and protect their shared history. The winners of the gift sets will be announced during the week of October 7, but the true reward lies in the enriched understanding of local heritage.

Uncovering Deux-Montagnes’ History: The Journées de la culture Adventure! Read More »

A Day of Unity and Celebration: Fête du Canada in Deux-Montagnes Draws Thousands

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A Day of Unity and Celebration: Fête du Canada in Deux-Montagnes Draws Thousands

The Canada Day celebrations in the MRC de Deux-Montagnes on July 1, 2024, were a resounding success, attracting a significant turnout at Central Park in Deux-Montagnes. This year marked the 53rd edition of this cherished event, organized by a dedicated committee of volunteers in collaboration with the city, the Canadian government, and key sponsors such as the Caisse Desjardins de Saint-Eustache–Deux-Montagnes.

The day began at 11 AM with a diverse array of family-oriented activities. Attendees enjoyed inflatable games, face painting, train rides, and a competitive horseshoe tournament. The artisans market, open from 11 AM to 5 PM, was a standout feature, offering a variety of local crafts and products. The opening ceremony at noon set the festive tone, followed by a children’s race and the ever-popular egg-toss competition in the afternoon.

Music played a central role in the celebrations, with live performances starting at 2:30 PM and continuing until midnight. The lineup included various local bands, culminating in a high-energy performance by ROCKOLOGY, a group known for their homage to classic rock from the 70s and 80s. The event’s climax was the traditional fireworks display at 10 PM, which lit up the sky and drew awe from the crowd.

This year, the event was honored to have Loucas Éthier and Kelly Ann Laurin as the co-presidents. These accomplished ice dancers, who have been training together for six years and are members of the national team, brought a touch of athletic excellence to the festivities. Their achievements on the international stage, including a third-place finish at the 2024 Canadian championships and a strong presence in global competitions, underscored the local talent and community pride celebrated at the event.

Despite the unpredictable weather in previous years, the 2024 celebration enjoyed favorable conditions, reminiscent of the success seen in 2022 when around 10,000 people gathered. The event provided a vibrant and inclusive environment where families, friends, and neighbors came together to celebrate Canadian heritage and community spirit. The collaboration between the volunteers, local government, and sponsors ensured a well-organized and memorable experience for all attendees.

A Day of Unity and Celebration: Fête du Canada in Deux-Montagnes Draws Thousands Read More »

Successful Horticultural Day in Deux-Montagnes Draws Enthusiastic Crowd

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Successful Horticultural Day in Deux-Montagnes Draws Enthusiastic Crowd

Maria Diamantis-LJI Journalist

On Saturday, May 25, the citizens of Deux-Montagnes flocked to the municipal garage located at 625, 20th Avenue to participate in the highly anticipated annual Horticultural Day. The event, which ran from 9 AM to 2 PM, offered residents a wonderful opportunity to obtain various plants for their gardening projects completely free of charge.

The atmosphere was vibrant as community members presented proof of residence to receive their allocation of plants. Each resident was entitled to two herb plants and a tray of annual flowers, contributing to a diverse range of gardening possibilities. In addition to these plants, tree saplings were distributed to further encourage the growth of local greenery and support the environment.

The Horticultural Day was not just about plant distribution; it also provided a host of activities to entertain and engage families. Children delighted in games and face painting sessions, making the event a joyful experience for all ages. The organizers had also set up several horticultural information booths, where experts shared valuable gardening tips and advice, ensuring that both novice and experienced gardeners could benefit from the knowledge shared.

This event is a cornerstone of the city’s beautification program, reflecting Deux-Montagnes’ commitment to encouraging residents to take pride in and enhance their gardens and yards. The city officials expressed their satisfaction with the large turnout and the enthusiastic participation of the community. The success of the event was evident in the smiles and positive feedback from attendees.

As the Horticultural Day continued until 2 PM, many residents left with their new plants in hand, ready to transform their outdoor spaces. The initiative not only provided tangible benefits in the form of plants but also fostered a sense of community and shared purpose. The citizens of Deux-Montagnes wholeheartedly embraced the opportunity to contribute to the beautification of their properties, enhancing the overall aesthetic and environmental quality of the community.

The Horticultural Day underscored the city’s dedication to environmental stewardship and community engagement. The event served as a reminder of the power of communal efforts in creating a greener, more beautiful Deux-Montagnes.

Successful Horticultural Day in Deux-Montagnes Draws Enthusiastic Crowd Read More »

Anticipation and Concerns Surrounding the Deux-Montagnes REM Launch

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Anticipation and Concerns Surrounding the Deux-Montagnes REM Launch

Maria Diamantis-LJI Journalist

After nearly four years without a commuter train, residents of Deux-Montagnes and its surrounding areas are eagerly anticipating the arrival of the Réseau express métropolitain (REM) to facilitate their transportation to downtown Montreal. However, their excitement is tempered with impatience and concerns, as they will have to wait until 2025 for the service to commence due to complications in the Mont-Royal tunnel.
The Long Wait
The prolonged wait has been a significant inconvenience for residents. The Deux-Montagnes line, once a reliable and efficient means of commuting, has been out of service, leaving many to rely on alternative and often less convenient modes of transportation. The disruption has affected daily routines, adding time and stress to commutes that were once straightforward.
“We cannot move forward on [the date of start-up of the REM] because our priority is really to focus on the end of the tunnel work, which is really the work on the critical path of the project,” explained Jean-Philippe Pelletier, senior director for the western phase of the REM project at CDPQ Infra. His statement underscores the complexity and importance of the tunnel work, which is a pivotal component of the REM project.
Progress Amidst Delays
Despite the delays, progress is being made. Tests are currently being conducted on the Deux-Montagnes line, and the station itself is in the final stages of construction. Unlike the previous boarding platform for exo trains, the new REM platform is designed to protect users from bad weather, enhancing the overall commuter experience. Additionally, incentive parking with a capacity for more than 1,200 vehicles will be available, aiming to make the transition to the REM as seamless as possible for users.
Noise Concerns
However, alongside the anticipation, there are growing fears among residents living near the line linking Deux-Montagnes to the city center. The primary concern is the potential for noise disturbances similar to those experienced by citizens of Griffintown.
Addressing Noise Fears
In response to these concerns, Jean-Philippe Pelletier has reassured residents that the noise levels on the North Shore will not mirror those on the South Shore. “The REM on the North Shore does not necessarily make the same noise as on the South Shore. For what? Because the structures it sits on are not the same. On the South Shore, we use a lot of steel beams. Here, on Deux-Montagnes, we are more on ballast and concrete beams, so the resonance will not be the same,” he explained.

This difference in construction materials and methods is expected to mitigate the noise impact, offering some solace to concerned residents. The use of ballast and concrete beams, as opposed to steel beams, should result in less resonance and, consequently, less noise.
The Broader Impact
The arrival of the REM is poised to significantly impact the daily lives of Deux-Montagnes residents. On one hand, it promises a return to efficient, reliable transportation, reducing commute times and easing daily travel. On the other hand, the project’s delays and the associated noise concerns have created a sense of unease and frustration within the community.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 launch date approaches, the focus remains on completing the critical work in the Mont-Royal tunnel and ensuring that the REM is ready to serve the public effectively. The continued testing and finalization of station construction are positive signs of progress, even if the wait feels interminable for those affected.
In the interim, communication between CDPQ Infra and the residents will be crucial. Keeping the community informed about progress, addressing concerns transparently, and demonstrating a commitment to mitigating negative impacts will be key to maintaining public trust and support.

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Deux-Montagnes Invests $100,000 in Renovation of École Sauvé Playground

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Deux-Montagnes Invests $100,000 in Renovation of École Sauvé Playground

Maria Diamantis-LJI Journalist

The city of Deux-Montagnes supported the renovation project for the new playground at École Sauvé, which has already brought great joy to its students. The city’s contribution of $100,000 played a crucial role in providing a new adventure play module for the children.
The renovated playground offers a vibrant environment for the students of École Sauvé and serves as a multi-functional play area for all the youth in Deux-Montagnes, accessible even outside school hours. “The new courtyard provides a beautiful setting for the students of École Sauvé and allows all young people from Deux-Montagnes to enjoy a wonderful multifunctional play area outside of school hours,” stated Mayor Denis Martin.
The project included landscaping work, refurbishment of play equipment, and a reorganization of the space to better serve the needs of the children. Special congratulations are extended to Mr. Martin Lafrenière, the principal of École Sauvé, and his team for their dedication to this project.
The community’s investment in such projects underscores the importance of providing safe and engaging outdoor spaces for children, which are essential for their physical and mental development. The new playground not only enhances the school environment but also enriches the community by providing a well-equipped space for active play and social interaction among children.

Deux-Montagnes Invests $100,000 in Renovation of École Sauvé Playground Read More »

New Collective Agreement Signed for the Deux-Montagnes/Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac Intermunicipal Fire Service

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New Collective Agreement Signed for the Deux-Montagnes/Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac Intermunicipal Fire Service

Maria Diamantis-LJI Journalist

After just over three months of negotiations, the City of Deux-Montagnes announced the signing of a new collective agreement for the Deux-Montagnes/Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac Intermunicipal Fire Service. Spanning five years, the agreement is retroactive to January 1st and will expire on December 31, 2028.
The administration and the union reached an agreement following a brief negotiation process conducted with respect and openness. “I want to thank all the participants at the negotiation table for their commitment and valuable collaboration throughout this process, which allowed us to quickly conclude an agreement and continue our common objectives,” stated Denis Martin, the mayor of Deux-Montagnes.
Jean-François Chartrand-Daoust, president of the Quebec firefighters’ union (SCFP 7191), Deux-Montagnes local section, also expressed satisfaction with the new collective agreement. “The Deux-Montagnes firefighters’ union is very proud of the agreement reached, which was accepted by a large majority of the members. I thank, on their behalf, the city’s general management and the union executive for the work accomplished and the smooth process.”
This marks the second collective agreement since the implementation of a full-time firefighter structure three years ago. It covers 16 permanent firefighters and 8 temporary firefighters. The City of Deux-Montagnes provides its fire safety services to the City of Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac under an agreement.

New Collective Agreement Signed for the Deux-Montagnes/Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac Intermunicipal Fire Service Read More »

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