Open Letter: The REC, still a priority for UPVMR

Published by Stèle Média

Dear friends - Following the mayor’s presentation on the vision of the Quartier Sportif on February 1st and 2nd, many of you contacted us and questioned our position on the Sports and Community Center (“REC”). We would like to clarify the situation that currently prevails around the proposed vision. The REC remains our priority, as it was throughout the 2021-election campaign. As you are aware, we do not represent the majority on the council. Therefore, we must, if we wish the construction of a REC, work with the council to make amendments towards a common vision supported by a majority at the council.

Rest assured that we have been very active since the beginning of our mandate. We had discussions and debates in the caucus, we vigorously defended our original position and made several amendments on key issues. As is customary, these discussions are not conducted publicly and are not shared with the press. These discussions are confidential and held behind closed doors.

After many discussions, we arrived at a compromise. Although this compromise differs from the initial project planned by the former Council, it ensures firstly that the REC is close to the underground parking lot; secondly, that it offers all the anticipated services, and thirdly that the REC is the main priority (phase1) independently of the other sports facilities proposed in the vision (outdoor swimming pool, arena, etc.). These three elements are tremendous gains.

Now, it’s time to get involved. It’s time for the public consultation. The goal of this consultation is to rally the community behind a common project. We are here to listen to your comments and are open to exploring suggestions submitted by residents. We remain driven by the desire to see a REC that will respond to today and tomorrow’s residents; we will always advocate prudent fiscal management of the town’s finances.

Maya Chammas – Councillor for District #4

Julie Halde – Councillor for District #5

Caroline Decaluwe – Councillor for District #6