Danville and Asbestos propose merger study

Aresolution adopted simultaneously by the Asbestos and Danville municipal councils last week called for a study on the possible creation of a new city, grouping the territories of Asbestos and Danville. The study, carried out by a working committee created by both Cities and supported by the MAMOT, will draw a portrait of the situation to establish the advantages and disadvantages of such a creation.

The two cities already have a lot in common. For several years, they have shared equipment and services and some properties are served by the neighboring municipality, given the proximity of existing networks.

The creation of a new city has to come by mutual agreement of the elected representatives of the two municipalities. Aware that such a project can provoke reactions among citizens, the two mayors specified that before taking any other steps, it is essential to carry out

the study to look objectively at the advantages and disadvantages of such a merger.

The study should take around six months and once completed, it will be presented to the two municipal councils who will make it public. A public consultation process will then be established and citizens will have the opportunity to comment. Danville Mayor Michel Plourde asked that citizens respect the neutrality of the approach until the study is made public.

Asbestos Mayor Grimard commented, "the time has come to look at the issue. It takes time to analyze the situation properly. The study does not commit the two municipalities to create this new city," he said.