As concerned citizens, we’re alarmed by the persistent obstruction of democratic participation in Pontiac’s local government, which disregards citizens’ fundamental rights.
History is repeating itself, and it’s imperative we hold our leaders accountable for this disturbing trend.
Warden Toller assured me in a 2022 public meeting that she doesn’t block citizens from participating, yet I was blocked from her Facebook page – a platform she uses
as Warden. Multiple citizens face similar barriers.
The incinerator proposal saw 16 municipalities pass resolutions without consulting constituents. Citizens were left with no choice but to demand information and inclusive consultations.
Earlier this year, 4 out of 7 Sheenboro council members decided to transfer ownership of a valuable piece of public road to the Ministère des Ressource naturelles et Forêts without public consultation, and without feeling obligated to answer citizens’ questions.
During the October MRC meeting, not only were the doors to the building locked, but Warden Toller and Pro-Warden Armstrong silenced citizens by failing to uphold an MRC bylaw. By-law 116-2005 clearly states a second question period of up to 10 minutes can be held at the end of a sitting. While it’s at the warden’s discretion, citizens deserve respect, consideration, and an opportunity to ask questions after patiently sitting through an entire meeting. Instead, both individuals chose to argue the validity of their own bylaw, disregarding citizens rights.
These incidents, among many others, demonstrate a blatant disregard for citizens, bylaws, transparency and civic engagement, exposing a disturbing trend that necessitates change. Accountability, transparency and a genuine commitment to democratic participation are long overdue. Pontiac residents deserve better!
Pat Goyette and Amy Taylor,
Pontiac Independent
