William Dale
Local Journalism Initiative
Published online October 22, 2025, at www.pontiacjournal.com.
FORT-COULONGE – Residents of Fort-Coulonge had a chance to hear directly from mayoral candidates Pierre Cyr and Philippe Ouellet during a live radio debate hosted by CHIP FM. The discussion focused on transparency, municipal services, infrastructure, and community development.
Restoring public trust and communication
Transparency and communication were key themes. Cyr emphasized involving citizens in local decision-making: “When we start making important decisions, we need to communicate them to residents who care about the village and want to be involved.”
Ouellet highlighted the importance of listening and consultation: “It starts with listening. We need to consult citizens and local organizations who know the community’s needs — through polls, public consultations, and meetings with youth and seniors — to understand what people truly want.”
Infrastructure and emergency services
Both candidates stressed the importance of strong local services. Cyr focused on keeping the Fort-Coulonge fire department independent: “We should do everything possible to maintain our own firefighters. I want them to keep their role and their identity in the community.”
Ouellet pointed to recent investments in equipment and training: “Our fire service has always been very capable. Some of the equipment was aging, and we’ve modernized it over the past four years. Continued investment in training and coordination with other emergency services is important.”
Culture, recreation, and community development
Cultural and recreational programs were also central to both candidates’ visions. Cyr spoke about engaging youth: “To prevent drug use, smoking, and crime, we could organize workshops. And of course, we need to revisit the library project.”
Ouellet proposed updating public spaces to serve multiple purposes: “A modern library could become a more versatile place — for reading, digital learning, and cultural activities. It could share costs and serve as a new model for the good of the community.”
Economic growth and housing
The debate also touched on housing and economic development. Cyr proposed incentives for new residents: “I’d like to offer a three-year tax credit to attract newcomers. We must also support our most vulnerable residents while inspiring growth.”
Ouellet called for responsible financial management: “We need to keep investing without overspending. Encouraging new housing construction will strengthen the local economy.”
The debate gave residents a clear look at each candidate’s priorities. Both Cyr and Ouellet outlined detailed plans to strengthen transparency, preserve essential services, and promote sustainable growth — all while keeping residents’ needs at the heart of their platforms.
