A new generation of voices could have a seat at the table in Hawkesbury after 23-year-old Yan Tremblay-Poisson announced his candidacy for councillor in the October 26 municipal election.
Tremblay-Poisson says he wants to bring a younger perspective to municipal government while remaining focused on listening to residents and finding practical solutions to the issues facing the community.
“I believe young people have a place at the Council table,” Tremblay-Poisson said. “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.”
His campaign is built around three main priorities: infrastructure and public spaces, economic development, and housing.
Infrastructure and public spaces
Tremblay-Poisson says Hawkesbury needs thoughtful, long-term planning when it comes to maintaining and improving roads, parks and other public spaces.
His goal is to ensure municipal infrastructure remains safe, functional and responsive to the needs of residents.
The condition of local roads is one issue he says deserves particular attention.
Supporting local businesses and economic development
Economic development is another priority for Tremblay-Poisson.
He wants to help create an environment that encourages new businesses to establish themselves in Hawkesbury, while also supporting entrepreneurs and businesses already operating in the community.
Housing and residential development
Tremblay-Poisson also wants to see more discussion about housing and the future of residential development in Hawkesbury.
He says the community needs to consider a wider range of housing options that can meet the needs of families, young people, workers and seniors.
At the same time, he says future development should respect the character and needs of the community.
“I don’t have a list of promises or pretend to have all the answers,” Tremblay-Poisson said. “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.”
A young candidate with community experience
Although Tremblay-Poisson has lived in Hawkesbury for several years, he is originally from the Valleyfield area and says he has known the community since he was young.
“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.
His interest in politics began at a young age. He volunteered on an election campaign for former Valleyfield-area MP Anne Minh-Thu Quach, an experience he says introduced him to community involvement and public service.
Tremblay-Poisson has also spent the past five years working in financial services, gaining experience in financial management, personnel management, coaching and training.
He has served two consecutive terms on the board of directors of a youth-focused non-profit organization, including time as treasurer.
He says those experiences have helped shape his approach to leadership and his decision to seek a seat on council.
“I decided to run because I think there are a lot of important conversations to have in Hawkesbury right now,” he said.
Responsible spending and community partnerships
Among the issues Tremblay-Poisson wants to see discussed is how the municipality manages public money, particularly at a time when many families are facing economic pressures.
“For me, that means the next Council will have to be responsible with public money and look carefully at how every dollar is spent,” he said.
He also points to social issues in the community, saying there is an opportunity for the municipality to work more closely with local community organizations and the people already providing support in those areas.
On housing, he wants to explore how Hawkesbury can facilitate new residential development while maintaining a balance with the needs and character of the community.
Tremblay-Poisson says his campaign will be guided by three principles: listening, collaboration and realistic solutions.
Rather than entering the race with a lengthy list of promises, he says he wants to hear directly from residents, businesses and community organizations before determining what should be the municipality’s priorities.
“I want to work with residents, elected officials and municipal staff to find realistic solutions and move Hawkesbury forward,” he said.
Residents can follow Tremblay-Poisson’s campaign and learn more about his candidacy through his Facebook page.