Benjamin Segobaetso – Local Journalism Initiative
Published online November 4, 2026, at www.pontiacjournal.com
MRC PONTIAC – At the October 22, 2026 Council of Mayors’ meeting several of
the different committees that the MRC oversees made their reports. The first was given by MRC Director General, Kim Lesage, who brought forward a motion to create a new committee that would reconsider restricted land development.
Proposal for a “Sustainable Territory” committee
Properties that have remained undeveloped for years because of zoning restrictions could receive renewed attention following MRC Pontiac Council’s decision to establish a Sustainable Territory Committee.
The new advisory body will examine longstanding land-use challenges, regional development opportunities and the sustainable management of Pontiac’s territory, potentially opening discussions about properties whose existing classifications have limited their development.
Presenting the resolution, MRC Pontiac Director General Kim Lesage explained that the new committee would have a different mandate from the existing Regional Urban Planning Committee.
According to Lesage, while the Regional Urban Planning Committee focuses primarily on planning regulations and their application, the Sustainable Territory Committee will examine broader strategic questions concerning land development and long-term territorial sustainability.
Lesage outlined the committee’s responsibilities, explaining that its work would include reviewing matters referred by council, exchanging information on territorial issues and developing recommendations to guide regional decision-making.
She further clarified that the committee would serve in an advisory capacity, meaning it would not have independent authority to approve zoning amendments, authorize construction or change permitted land uses.
Warden Jane Toller welcomed the initiative, drawing attention to properties across Pontiac that have remained unused or underdeveloped because of existing zoning classifications. She suggested the committee could provide an opportunity to reconsider whether alternative uses might be appropriate for certain properties, particularly where longstanding restrictions have prevented development.
For property owners whose land has remained restricted for years, the committee could create an avenue for examining development possibilities previously considered impractical or unavailable.
However, establishing the committee does not guarantee that existing restrictions will be lifted.
As Lesage explained in presenting the committee’s advisory mandate, recommendations would still require consideration by the appropriate municipal authorities. Any subsequent zoning amendments or development approvals would remain subject to applicable planning legislation and established approval procedures.
Council members also discussed the appointment of municipal representatives to the committee, with Toller expressing interest in participating.
Although no specific properties were identified for immediate reconsideration, the committee’s establishment signals an intention to examine how Pontiac’s territory can be
managed to support sustainable economic development.
