Drummondville

The Strategic Plan 2023-2027 for Ville de Drummondville is designed to guide the organization's ambitions and directions, aiming to achieve a vision of a thriving living environment for all. It is structured around four strategic orientations: an attractive and active city, a territory with sustainable developments, a leader in innovative economic development, and a mobilized and committed organization. The plan encompasses 12 objectives and 32 action areas, reporting approximately 30% advancement after its first year of implementation.

This annual report details the progress of the 2017-2022 Strategic Plan for Ville de Drummondville. The plan's purpose is to effectively and responsibly meet the community's needs, aspiring to build a flourishing society. It is structured around three core pillars: Citizen Experience, Smart City, and Infrastructure and Territory Management, and outlines 17 strategic orientations and 52 actions for adapted development.

The session included adoption of the agenda and filing of correspondence. Key discussions from the executive committee meeting included a request for support for the coalition for a new hospital, human resources items, best practices for road signage during construction, and the management of the Remon forest. The council also addressed the potential expansion of the Vachon pumping station. Financial items included the treasurer presenting the draft overall financial framework for the 2026 budget and updated results of service optimization processes. Decisions made involved granting $25,000 in financial aid to the coalition for a regional hospital, adopting the 2026 schedule of sessions, approving expenditures authorized by delegates, and approving budget transfers. Contract awards included hydrodynamic cleaning of a storm drain, structural inspection services, and the supply and delivery of two vans and a light truck. Support was granted for installing a play module at Bois Brillant park and for professional services related to road and environmental infrastructure studies. Amendments to the road flagger service contract were authorized. Human capital matters included filing a list of employee movements. Land management delegation agreement concerning the Remon forest regional park was adopted. The updated family policy and its three-year action plan were adopted, along with grant payments to a community center and a cross-country ski club. An agreement for artistic direction of the national holiday in 2026 was approved. Regulatory matters focused heavily on zoning by-law amendments, including increasing dwelling maximums in certain areas, adjusting standards for antennas and tree felling, relaxing standards for accessory and intergenerational dwellings, and authorizing specific commercial uses. A pilot project regulating off-road vehicle circulation was extended, and penalties for failing to respect taxibus reservations were addressed.

This strategic plan outlines a comprehensive approach to increase the canopy index by 5% over 25 years. It focuses on five main intervention areas: increasing the canopy index through mapping, targeted reforestation, and improved tree management; enhancing intervention planning by updating tree inventories and developing digital mapping tools; conserving and protecting wooded areas by assessing forest stands and managing invasive species; regulating arboricultural practices through maintenance scheduling, new staffing, and updated regulations; and engaging the community through awareness campaigns, public planting events, and partnerships to promote urban greening.

The Politique de l'arbre (Tree Policy) by the City of Drummondville aims to define the role of trees as essential green infrastructure within the urban environment. It supports existing initiatives and refines actions to promote trees and enhance citizens' quality of life. The policy outlines five key intervention areas: increasing the canopy index, improving intervention planning, conserving and protecting wooded areas, framing arboreal maintenance practices, and engaging partners and citizens. Its overall objective is to combat heat islands, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and ensure the sustainable management and increase of the city's forest cover, ultimately improving climatic and environmental conditions.