Jennifer Quaile acclaimed Otter Lake mayor

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Otter Lake’s new mayor, Jennifer Quaile, focuses on growth and sustainability
Tashi Farmilo
Local Journalism Initiative
Published January 15, 2025.

OTTER LAKE – After serving as acting mayor for several months following Terry Lafleur’s resignation in September 2024, Jennifer Quaile was acclaimed mayor of Otter Lake on December 20, 2024. Her vision for the community focuses on environmental sustainability, local economic development and improving services.

In the short term, Quaile’s administration is prioritizing waste management. “We pay by the ton to send our garbage to landfill,” she explained, highlighting the financial and environmental impact of waste. A new policy, implemented January 1, mandates the use of clear bags for garbage brought to the transfer station to reduce landfill waste by encouraging better separation of recyclables and food waste. Additionally, the municipality is distributing free kitchen compost pails to residents.

The municipality is also exploring the possibility of creating a “reusables” section at the transfer station. “One person’s trash could become another’s treasure,” Quaile remarked.

Looking ahead, Quaile is focused on diversifying and strengthening Otter Lake’s economy. “We want to continue helping our local economy grow, particularly through supporting tourism, which is vital to the area’s livelihood,” she said. Quaile aims to encourage new
businesses and entrepreneurship to diversify the local economy.

Quaile stressed the need for services that support a growing population. “We want to encourage people to make Otter Lake their home,” she said. The availability of affordable housing and childcare services are central to this goal, alongside initiatives to support seniors who wish to retire in the area.

A significant environmental challenge facing Otter Lake is the presence of Eurasian milfoil, an invasive aquatic species discovered in five of the town’s lakes. Quaile’s office is working closely with local lake associations and biologists to mitigate damage. “We’ve already received reports from biologists on how to best address the issue, and we’re committed to taking the necessary steps to protect our lakes,” Quaile said.

One of the standout projects underway in Otter Lake is the development of the 408 Tessier parcel of land adjacent to the Raymond Johnston Community Centre. With community fundraising and grant support, the site has already seen the installation of a splash pad, a  covered seating area for parents, and an electric vehicle charging station. “We’re continuing to improve the site, with plans for more upgrades depending on future funding opportunities,” Quaile concluded.