Since announcing my candidacy, I have noticed that some people prefer to resort to denigration rather than debating ideas or projects for North Hatley. Attempts are being made to discredit my campaign by attacking me personally rather than discussing municipal issues. My private address has even been made public for the sole purpose of harming me.
Rather than responding to my arguments, some people are clearly trying to silence me. This kind of maneuvering should be a cause for concern for anyone who values a healthy democracy and respectful public debate.
Municipal elections: a series of resignations and seats won by acclamation
Over the past four years, four municipal councilors have resigned in North Hatley. Add to that the fact that two municipal seats have already been filled by acclamation, without a real election due to a lack of candidates. One might legitimately ask: why are there so few candidates and so many departures from the council?
| Date | Resignations of candidates | Minutes reference |
| October 4, 2022 | Resignation ofMme Nathalie Meunier | Village de North Hatley |
| November 17, 2022 | Resignation of Mme Sophie Brasiola | Village de North Hatley |
| December 13, 2024 | Resignation ofe M. David Wilson | Village de North Hatley |
| May 27, 2025 | Resignation of Mme Carrol Houlzet-Haller | Village de North Hatley |
These situations do not arise by chance. Several people mention a difficult political climate, sometimes marked by tension and a lack of dialogue. Ask the councilors who have left. As citizens, I believe we have the right—and even the duty—to ask the right questions to improve our local democracy.
For my part, I am running because I believe that many voices need to be heard at City Hall. Isn’t that the very essence of democracy?
Democracy does not thrive in a climate of tension and fear.
Complete transparency of my application
Unlike my detractors, I have nothing to hide. I have published publicly:
- a comprehensive video explaining my approach;
- a transparent article detailing the official steps of my application process;
- my public intentions to serve my community, without conflict of interest and with integrity.
If I had something to hide, I certainly wouldn’t be the only person in this campaign to be so open about my approach.
I have said it before and I will say it again: I am not attached to a title. I want to contribute to my community on the city council or elsewhere. In fact, I have announced that I will refuse the city councilor’s salary and that I want it to be donated to a local organization. If citizens decide that I am not the right person for the job, they will make that clear at the ballot box on November 2. That’s democracy.
My eligibility: let’s clarify the facts
Attempts are being made to cast doubt on my right to stand as a candidate. Here are the facts:
According to the Act respecting elections and referendums in municipalities (LERM), eligibility is based on two criteria:
- Being registered on the municipal electoral roll as a non-resident voter – that’s my case.
- Reside in the municipality at the time of application – this is my case.
The term used in the law is “reside,” not “domiciled.” A person may have more than one residence within the meaning of the law. By definition, a cottage may constitute a residence whether it is occupied continuously or not.
✔️ I own a cottage in North Hatley.
✔️ I go there frequently with my family.
✔️ I also own a piece of land where I go almost every day.
✔️ I am a commercial tenant in the village center (for reference only)
My home is located in the Township of Hatley, very close to North Hatley—in fact, directly across from the Curling Club (to please a fan), also located in the Township of Hatley. This fact has been widely emphasized by certain citizens who seek to question my legitimacy as a candidate.
I am therefore a non-resident voter within the meaning of the law and I reside in the territory with my cottage, so I am perfectly eligible to run. In fact, I called the MAMH and they confirmed that my situation meets the legal requirements. The MAMH also told me that people sometimes campaign on this kind of issue. To validate their point, they must file a petition with the Superior Court.
Message to those who want to push me aside
Some people want to prevent me from running for office. They are free to challenge my candidacy in court. Personally, I prefer to trust the law, democracy, and the citizens.
I will continue to propose ideas, ask legitimate questions, and defend a simple principle: municipal transparency. Whether I am elected or not.
For me, being a councilor is an act of kindness toward my community. That is why, if I am elected, I will refuse the salary and donate it to charity for 4 years.
2 vacancies out of 6 advisor positions
Political race in North Hatley
- 2 councilors already elected by acclamation (highlighted in red)
- Four councilors are seeking a second term as councilors (highlighted in blue).
https://www.electionsquebec.qc.ca/voter/candidatures/municipal/MUN_45050/17062
