Beaconsfield has always been a very politically engaged community. With municipal elections on November 7, 2021, the race has already begun to heat up. Long-time resident, Johanne Hudon-Armstrong, has thrown her hat in the ring for the Mayor's seat. While she may appear to be a political newbie, that is not entirely true as the parent, businesswoman and well-known community activist is no stranger to politics, having grown up as the daughter of the Mayor of Chicoutimi North.
Armstrong believes in the power of a united community and puts her money where her mouth is. Active in local charities such as Ricochet Homeless Shelter, Lakeshore General Hospital Foundation and the bi-annual Neighbours for Neighbours Food Drive, this candidate will be a sore spot for the 78-year-old incumbent, George(s) Bourelle. The latter is finishing up his second term as Mayor of the city. The strong-willed senior is known to be less than compassionate when residents have descending views.
Photo: Hudson-Armstrong is a community activist and has been involved with the Neighbours for Neighbours bi-annual food drive since the inception 8 years ago.
"I would like to see a welcoming atmosphere in city hall," Armstrong stated in an interview with the West Island News. " I want to hear what residents have to say in public meetings. It is the only way elected officials can truly serve the residents. It's not about me; it's about the citizens."
Armstrong's platform can be seen on her website, and she dedicated to her door-to-door campaign. The engaged candidate is offering residents virtual meetings should they feel more comfortable during this unique global climate. She has held two Town Hall style meetings to date.
"I want people to feel comfortable," she explained. "But at the same time, they need to get to know their candidates to make an informed choice. Democracy is a critical component that needs to be respected despite the pandemic. I am pleased to see there will be two advanced polling dates this election, October 30 and October 31, along with the official election date of November 7. I hope this gives residents a sense of comfort that allows them to practice their voting rights. After all, now more than ever, the leader of our community must understand the needs of the people. As a middle-aged businesswoman with a teenage daughter, an anglophone husband and senior parents, I have a birdseye view of many of our residents' concerns."
