City council meets in Aylmer
Zoning, homelessness, water quality, beach access
City council met in Aylmer, October 19, facing a hall full of residents. Councillor Daniel Champagne, the council chair, congratulated those present for their participation. Aylmer’s participation exceeds the other sectors’ by far.
During question period, Monique Pelletier submitted a petition signed by 163 people about a zoning change on 24 Limbour Street. Brian Armstrong asked Councillor Duggan, “What is being done now and in the future for all the homeless people?” Mr Duggan replied, “We are known for our investments in affordable housing,” and Councillor Myriam Nadeau added, “Gatineau is one of the most engaged cities on this problem. In Aylmer, there is the project Rapides-Deschênes. In July, we approved a project that is under study now. But a city cannot provide everything; we’re asking the federal government to have our fair share.” Councillor Sylvie Goneau added, “The Federation of Canadian Municipalities is discussing with the Family Ministry. We should be hearing something shortly. Two thousand municipalities across the country are asking the federal government for a housing policy.”
Sylvie Lemay asked about the quality of city water, noting that it is discoloured, yellow or brown, as if tainted. “I sympathize with the city,” she said, “but when I see we spend millions to repave streets (and on other infrastructure projects), and yet we have to put up with dirty water, I am disgusted. When I run a bath, there are particles in it. It’s embarrassing when I have company. My white laundry is no longer white. Who will buy my house? And yet I still have to pay taxes -- for what?” The mayor sympathized, but said that Gatineau’s water is safe to drink. Renée Amyotte, of the Limbour district, submitted a petition on speeding in her area.
Connie Martin, who lives on Terry Fox, was upset about a sign showing access to the beach, which has led to problems during the winter when people use the street to reach the river for snowmobiling, ice fishing, and other activities. “There was a 32-foot trailer which sank into the river, polluting the water with oil and chemicals. Last year, a skidoo race brought many cars and trucks parked on both sides of the street and on private property. We’d like a fence so that only pedestrians can access the public beach.” The mayor said that discussions were underway with the Municipality of Pontiac to address the problem.
