Ruby Pratka, Local Journalism Initiative reporter
Two seats on Shannon’s town council that have been empty for the past few months will be filled when the council next meets on Dec. 4.
A byelection was held Nov. 5 to fill the seats left vacant by former councillors Martin Comeau (District 1) and Ysabel Lafrance (District 2) who stepped down earlier this year. Former councillor Francine Girard won the District 1 seat and military veteran and political newcomer Pierre Chamberland won in District 2. The two councillors were sworn in during a private ceremony on Nov. 10, according to Marie- France Lambert, communications director for the Ville de Shannon. Town officials said in a statement that a total of 256 people had exercised their right to vote – a 19 per cent participation rate – over two days of voting.
Girard told the QCT before the byelection that if elected, she would prioritize working with surrounding municipalities to protect wetlands and green spaces, and encouraging seniors to get more involved in the community. Chamberland has said he plans to prioritize addressing speeding and traffic problems and listening to citizens’ concerns.
“On my behalf, and that of the councillors, I would like to congratulate the elected candidates as well as all the other candidates who took part in this byelection, including Patrick Deschamps and Réjean Côté (District 1) as well as Dominique Bowles (District 2). There is no doubt that the new members of the council will ensure the advancement of promising projects for citizens,” said Shannon Mayor Sarah Perreault.