Gatineau Elections: Lucerne
Candidate: Michel Lamirande, Équipe Mario Aubé
Michel Lamirande, Lucerne Candidate for Équipe Mario Aubé spent much of his childhood in Lucerne. He is a La Cité collégiale graduate with a degree in broadcasting and journalism. Throughout his career he has worked as a media analyst for various federal government departments and is currently working as an analyst at the Royal Bank of Canada.
1. Why are you running for councillor, and what experience or qualities make you the right person for the job?
I'm running because I want to help build a more balanced, sustainable, and inclusive Gatineau. Having grown up in Old Aylmer, I know our neighbourhoods, our families, and our challenges. A graduate in journalism and a manager for over 20 years, I bring a global vision, a sense of dialogue, and unifying leadership. I believe in responsible management that supports our residents and our businesses. On October 26 or November 2, trust me to defend your interests and move our community forward.
Lucerne deserves a strong voice, close to the people and rooted in the realities on the ground. I want a better-managed, more transparent, and more humane city. My priorities for Lucerne are more efficient transportation, stronger local services, and a better-protected environment. Together, let's put Gatineau back on the path of respect, rigour, and common sense. With Team Mario Aubé, change starts here, in Lucerne. Let's offer our citizens modern, accessible, reliable, and sustainable services every day.
2. How do you plan to balance the need for housing with the pace of development, given that infrastructure has not kept up, resulting in service gaps?
In Lucerne, I want thoughtful development, especially around the commercial axis and in terms of our infrastructure. Yes, we need to build more, but above all, we need to build better: close to schools, services, and public transportation. I will ensure better coordination between urban planning, mobility, and the environment to ensure the district's sustainable and harmonious growth.
3. With increased development in the area, how will you protect the ecological corridors, such as the Champlain corridor in Aylmer?
Lucerne's green spaces are essential to our natural heritage. I am committed to protecting them through rigourous planning and partnerships with citizens, all in compliance with municipal regulations. Each project must respect biodiversity and sensitive environments. Preserving these areas means preserving the soul of our district.
4. With increased development in Aylmer, there is growing concern about the preservation of local heritage, especially as many historic homes are neglected, then demolished to make way for multi-unit buildings. What is your plan to protect and preserve Aylmer's heritage?
The Lucerne district is full of stories and buildings that reflect Aylmer's identity. I want to strengthen heritage conservation regulations. Our heritage should be a source of pride, not a loss.
5. Anglophones are numerous across Gatineau. How will you ensure they have equitable access to city information and services in English?
Lucerne is a district where English is widely spoken among residents. I am committed to ensuring equal access to municipal information and services in English. Providing accessible services in both languages strengthens the sense of belonging.
6. Aylmer’s residents are passionate about their community. When new development projects are proposed, how will you engage with both developers and residents to address any concerns that arise?
In Lucerne, we need to restore trust between developers, citizens, and the city. I'm all for constructive dialogue right from the start of projects so that residents are heard. Together, we can create projects that are better integrated and respectful of our environment and heritage.
