William Crooks
Candidates Norm Green, Guillaume Brien, and André Duncan take reporters’ questions following the Vision Action Sherbrooke candidate announcement at the Golden Lion Pub on Apr. 3

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Vision Action Sherbrooke (VAS), a municipal political party founded in 2024, marked its first anniversary with the announcement of two candidates for Lennoxville. The event was held Thursday afternoon, April 3, at the Golden Lion Pub, with more than 30 locals in attendance.

Guillaume Brien, mayoral candidate for Sherbrooke and leader of VAS, introduced André Duncan and Norman Green as the party’s first two candidates in the borough. Duncan will run for city councillor in Lennoxville, while Green will seek the position of borough councillor for the Fairview district.

“This is the one-year anniversary of Vision Action Sherbrooke,” Brien told the crowd. “We’re proud to announce two candidates who reflect the values of our party—proximity, listening, and teamwork.”

VAS confirmed that a third candidate should eventually be announced for the remaining Lennoxville council seat. According to Brien, although several prospective candidates had been approached, business commitments prevented them from proceeding. “We’re confident we’ll present a strong trio,” he said.

André Duncan: Municipal council candidate

Duncan, who has worked in hospitality and event management, is the founder of a consulting business in mixology. He stated that his decision to run was based on a desire to be involved in local governance and support projects that address both environmental and social needs.

He referenced his recent involvement in community initiatives, including meetings with local health and forestry organizations. Duncan mentioned the recent acquisition of 34.4 hectares of the Ascot-Lennox forest, calling it “a good, big territory” that requires concrete ideas and long-term planning.

He also addressed the housing crisis: “I’m convinced there’s potential for affordable housing in strategic areas of Lennoxville,” he said, noting that he has personally experienced housing challenges.

Norman Green: Borough council candidate

Green has lived in Lennoxville for over 20 years and has served in various volunteer roles, including president of the Lennoxville Residents Association. He has also been active in defending Lennoxville’s bilingual status, an issue he called “a living, breathing part of our community.”

At the event, Green outlined three main priorities: protecting bilingualism, improving public transit, and increasing transparency in local governance. He said he would push for better bus service for students, seniors, and workers and called for more accessible city government processes.

“I will advocate for open dialogue, real-time feedback, and stronger regular attendance at town meetings,” he said.

Responses to questions

During a media scrum following the announcements, Brien confirmed that Vision Action Sherbrooke now has over 300 members and continues to grow. He noted that interest in the party has come from other regions of Quebec due to its focus on innovation and sustainable development.

The absence of a third candidate in Lennoxville was addressed directly. Duncan explained that some potential candidates declined due to professional responsibilities, but said recruitment efforts were ongoing.

Both Duncan and Green said they had already begun meeting with community groups and attending public events in preparation for their campaigns.

The municipal election is scheduled for later this year in the fall.