Yan Tremblay-Poisson wants to represent a new generation of citizens on Hawkesbury Council. Tremblay-Poisson, 23, is a candidate for Councillor in the October 26 municipal election. He intends to draw on his professional experience and his desire to become more involved in municipal affairs to contribute to the decisions that will shape Hawkesbury’s future.

“I believe young people have a place at the Council table. At 23, I want to bring a different perspective while listening to the concerns of the entire community. I want to work with residents, elected officials and municipal staff to find realistic solutions and move Hawkesbury forward,” Tremblay-Poisson said.

He has developed three priorities he would like to pursue for Hawkesbury if he is elected to council.

For infrastructure and public spaces, Tremblay-Poisson aims to promote thoughtful planning for the maintenance and improvement of roads, parks and public spaces in order to maintain infrastructure that is safe, functional and responsive to the needs of the community.

In the area of economic development, he wants to help create an environment that encourages the establishment of new businesses and supports entrepreneurs and existing businesses in Hawkesbury.

With respect to housing and residential development, Mr. Tremblay-Poisson wants to encourage discussion around residential development and diversification of housing options to meet needs of families, young people, workers, and seniors.

Tremblay-Poisson has built his campaign on three principles: listening, collaboration and realistic solutions. Through these principles, he hopes to make a positive contribution to the decisions that will shape Hawkesbury’s future.

Tremblay-Poisson has been a resident of Hawkesbury for several years but is originally from the Valleyfield area. However, he had been familiar with Hawkesbury since his youth.

“This is where I have chosen to establish my home, my career and my future because I truly believe in the potential of Hawkesbury,” he said.

Tremblay-Poisson has been interested in politics since his youth and volunteered on an election campaign for former Valleyfield-area Member of Parliament Anne Minh-Thu Quach.  

“It was an early experience that introduced me to community involvement and public service,” he explained.

For the past five years, Tremblay-Poisson has worked in financial services, with experience in financial management, personnel management, coaching and training. He has also served two consecutive terms on the board of directors of a youth-focused non-profit organization, including as treasurer.

“I decided to run because I think there are a lot of important conversations to have in Hawkesbury right now,” he remarked.

Those conversations include the condition of the infrastructure, especially road. He said Council also must recognize that many families are dealing with a difficult economic situation.

“For me, that means the next Council will have to be responsible with public money and look carefully at how every dollar is spent,” Tremblay-Poisson said.

He said there are also social issues in our community that deserve attention. He believes there is an opportunity to look at how the municipality can work more closely with local community organizations and the people already doing work in that area.

Housing is another area Tremblay-Poisson would like to see discussed, particularly how the town can facilitate the development of new housing in Hawkesbury while respecting the community.

“I don’t have a list of promises or pretend to have all the answers. I think there are many issues that need to be discussed with residents, local businesses and community organizations before deciding what the priorities should be,” Tremblay-Poisson said.

To follow Yan Tremblay-Poisson’s campaign for Hawkesbury Council, go to https://www.facebook.com/share/1HkpR97jAx/?mibextid=wwXIfr.