Josée Lacasse contemplates her political career

 

Aylmer Ward 1 councillor Josée Lacasse is holding a special press conference on September 15 at City Hall.

This announcement comes after it was reported by the local press that the councillor had important renovations done to her Queen’s Park home without the proper municipal renovation permit and that she’s being sued by the contractor.

Ms Lacasse is involved in a legal dispute with Plano Construction, which is attempting to recover more than $120,000 for unpaid work. Ms Lacasse is arguing the work carried out during the 2015 holiday season was, in short, botched.

Ms Lacasse told the Bulletin that an architect estimated the value of the work at $34,000, an amount Plano Construction’s lawyer, Me Richard LeBlanc, said was unfounded. 

 

Me LeBlanc said he had his own estimate completed, which he will provide to the court in coming weeks.

It was also uncovered, as reported in the Bulletin, that Ms Lacasse had failed to obtain proper permits prior to carrying out renovations at 61, rue Principale this summer. The unauthorized work took place following the closure of the former Bostaurus restaurant. A new restaurant has since settled in the historical premises in the heritage quarter.

It’s unclear what the Aylmer councillor will announce during her special press conference, but it has been suggested that she could resign. The Mayor of Gatineau, Maxime Pedneaud-Jobin, is expected to speak to the press following Ms Lacasse’s press conference.

Lacasse, a rookie politician, was elected in 2013 after defeating Ward 1 incumbent Stefan Psenak.
 (LRC)