Chantal Ouellet,
former mayor of Scotstown, QC
Ann MacLean Award for Outstanding Service by a Woman in Municipal Politics
Chantal Ouellet's career in Scotstown's municipal politics is prolific, spanning almost 40 years and 7 terms on council. Ouellet was the first woman councillor, and then Mayor, in the history of the municipality. Recognized for her determination and dynamism, Ouellet helped pave the way for women in the municipal politics of her region and beyond. Ouellet’s legacy reflects a deep commitment to protecting nature, championing local economic development, enriching the cultural life of Scotstown and honouring the municipality’s heritage.
Ouellet championed the establishment of the Samuel-Brisson ecological reserve at Mont-Mégantic, and later obtained national park status for Mont-Mégantic. Her other projects include the development of the Walter-Mackenzie Municipal Park, and the creation of Marécage-des-Scots Park, which connects the Walter-Mackenzie and Mont-Mégantic parks in 2016. Beyond protecting wildlife and Canada’s wilderness, this dedication to nature also led to increasing tourism and economic prosperity in the region. Ouellet's also played a key role in heritage days, which bring together Anglophones and Francophones; establishing a municipal library; lobbying to obtain the Coeur villageois status; establishing the Scotstown Development Corporation; creating a service cooperative to provide postal and banking services; and adopting age and family friendly municipal policies and programs.
Chantal Ouellet’s engagement in her community has left an indelible mark on the territory. Her infectious enthusiasm, her ability to rally partners on projects that benefit the collective good and her innate sense of community make her an exceptional politician.