Tag: Stéphane Boyer

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Laval Today. Oct. 8, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Today we breathe a sigh of relief with excellent news for Laval: Mayor Stéphane Boyer’s surgery was a success. We also look at voter turnout in our six ridings, a deliberately set fire in Chomedey, and a few stories that touch the daily lives of Laval residents.

What to remember this morning

  • Mayor Stéphane Boyer’s surgery was a success: The 13-hour procedure removed a golf-ball-sized tumour lodged between his brain, right eye, and a major artery.
  • Voter turnout dropped in all six Laval ridings: 61.5% of Laval residents voted on Monday, compared to 66.9% across Quebec.
  • Fire of criminal origin in Chomedey: A vehicle in flames spread the blaze to a home on Avenue Laplante early Wednesday morning.
  • Canadiens call up Jacob Fowler: Goalie Samuel Montembeault left practice Wednesday with an injury, and the Rocket de Laval netminder was recalled.

At home

  • New project for aging women in Laval: The Table de concertation de Laval en condition féminine launched an initiative to better understand the housing realities of aging women.
  • Fire caused by defective batteries in Auteuil: The SSIL reminds residents to use certified devices after a Tuesday garage blaze.

Across Canada

  • Ottawa to exclude mental illness from medical assistance in dying: The Justice Minister indicated the decision reflects the special committee’s recommendations.
  • Elon Musk voices support for Quebec independence: The billionaire made several posts to that effect on X, and Saskatchewan’s premier replied simply: “No.”

Main story

Mayor Stéphane Boyer’s surgery was a success

The delicate surgery undergone by Mayor Stéphane Boyer was a success. The 13-hour procedure removed a golf-ball-sized tumour lodged between his brain, right eye, and a major artery.

“Right now I look like a boxer who lost his match, but it’s quite the opposite,” the mayor wrote in a post on his Facebook page.

“Soon I’ll be fully recovered and able to look to the future with optimism again,” he continued.

He reminded residents that his right-hand man, Ray Khalil, will hold the fort as acting mayor during his recovery, expected to last about two months.

“But I can’t wait to get back to the office… talking about public finances and water mains, I love it!” he concluded.

In detail

Voter turnout down in all six Laval ridings

In Monday’s provincial election, 61.5% of Laval residents cast ballots, compared to 66.9% across Quebec. Exactly 201,828 Laval residents turned out, out of 328,198 registered voters.

The highest turnout was in Vimont-Auteuil, where 68.3% of registered voters exercised their right. At the other end, Chomedey saw 50.5%, a sharp drop from 2022.

Behind Vimont-Auteuil, Mille-Îles and Sainte-Rose came second and third with 66.3% and 65.6%. In Fabre, turnout was 60.7%, and Laval-des-Rapides just slipped under 60% at 59.3%.

Fire of criminal origin in Chomedey

Camera images reportedly show a criminal hand behind a vehicle fire that spread to a home on Avenue Laplante in the early hours of Wednesday, October 7.

At 3:57 a.m., 911 was alerted to the incident in a residential enclave of Chomedey. The first of 22 firefighters dispatched by the Service de sécurité incendie de Laval arrived at 4:03 a.m., finding a vehicle fully engulfed in flames that were beginning to dangerously reach the adjoining house.

Firefighters brought the blaze under control by 4:19 a.m., but not before causing an estimated $20,000 in damage to the vehicle and home structure, plus a $5,000 loss for contents.

Due to surveillance camera images and evidence found on site, the SSIL quickly handed the investigation to the Service de police de Laval.

Canadiens call up Jacob Fowler after Montembeault injury

The Montreal Canadiens recalled goalie Jacob Fowler from the Rocket de Laval after Samuel Montembeault left practice Wednesday with an injury.

Montembeault, who started the season as backup to Jakub Dobes, appeared to hurt his right leg or groin during one of the final drills. Coach Martin St-Louis gave no update, saying only that he was still being evaluated.

The 29-year-old was slated to make his first start of the season Thursday night against the Nashville Predators, but Fowler’s recall suggested that was unlikely.

Coup de Cœur

The story of Mayor Boyer’s resilience—keeping a smile and sense of humour even after a 13-hour surgery—reminds us that leadership is also measured in tough moments. His message, humble and optimistic, is a fine example for the whole Laval community.

Before we go

Wishing you a day full of good news and gentleness. Whether you’re following the mayor’s recovery closely or planning your next weekend, take time to savour the small victories. See you tomorrow! ☕

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Laval Today. Oct. 7, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

Today we’re thinking first of Mayor Stéphane Boyer, who underwent delicate surgery to remove a brain tumour. We’re also looking back at Christine Fréchette’s resignation and what the new minority government could mean for immigration in Quebec.

What to remember this morning

  • Mayor Stéphane Boyer operated on for a brain tumour: He’s away for at least two months, and Ray Khalil is acting mayor.
  • Christine Fréchette resigns and leaves politics: The former CAQ leader hasn’t ruled out a possible return.
  • PQ wants to cut permanent immigration to 35,000 a year: Refugee advocates worry immigrants are becoming scapegoats.
  • Canadiens lose 6-4 to Hurricanes in home opener: Despite the loss, fans remain confident for the season.

In our backyard

  • Ray Khalil to fill in while Stéphane Boyer is away: The executive committee vice-chair takes over as acting mayor for the coming months.
  • FC Supra signs 17-year-old defender Eliakim Awonongbadje: He becomes the first player in club history to move from a development contract to a professional one.

Main story

Mayor Stéphane Boyer undergoes surgery for brain tumour, away for at least two months

Laval’s mayor, Stéphane Boyer, had surgery Tuesday to remove a tumour lodged between his brain, his right eye and a major artery. In a video posted to social media, he said the operation wasn’t without risk, mentioning he could lose his sight, become paraplegic or suffer a hemorrhage. He added, though, that his chances of recovery were excellent thanks to advances in medical technology.

Boyer, 38, kept things in perspective with a touch of humour, joking about everyday challenges like tariffs and potholes, before sending a message to those struggling physically or mentally: “Tell yourselves you’re not alone. Today, I’ll be thinking of you.”

While he’s away, executive committee vice-chair Ray Khalil is acting mayor. He’ll also represent Laval on the Communauté métropolitaine de Montréal, the Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain and the Union des municipalités du Québec.

In detail

Christine Fréchette resigns, leaves politics

The day after the CAQ’s crushing defeat—no seats and just 13% of the vote—Christine Fréchette announced her resignation as party leader. “I leave with the feeling I served Quebec as best I could,” she said. She didn’t rule out a return to politics, but said it will be up to the party’s bodies to find a new leader.

PQ wants to cut immigration, advocates worry

The new PQ government plans to cut the number of permanent immigrants admitted to Quebec to 35,000 a year, a drop of about 10,000. Groups like the Conseil Migrant denounce a trend of making immigrants scapegoats, pointing to their crucial role in the economy and for an aging population. To pass, the change will need support from at least one opposition party.

Canadiens fall 6-4 in home opener

The Carolina Hurricanes won 6-4 at the Bell Centre Tuesday night. Taylor Hall scored twice, and Sebastian Aho added a goal and two assists. Despite the loss, several fans stayed optimistic, noting the season is just getting started. Ivan Demidov missed the game with a lower-body injury.

Coup de Cœur

Stéphane Boyer’s story reminds us that even the most active elected officials can face illness. His transparency and humour, even in the toughest moments, offer a lesson in resilience that reaches far beyond city hall.

To close

Wishing you a day marked by solidarity and kindness, with a thought for those going through hard times. And for hockey fans, remember the Canadiens face the Nashville Predators on Thursday. Until then, let’s take care of ourselves and each other. ☕

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Laval Today. Oct. 6, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The Daily Chat

Good afternoon,

After a historic election night, Laval wakes up to a completely changed political map and a mayor stepping away for health reasons. Here’s what happened on our turf and what’s coming.

What to know this day

  • The Parti Québécois forms a minority government: Paul St-Pierre Plamondon becomes premier with 59 seats, short of the 64 needed for a majority.
  • Laval goes red: all six Laval ridings will be represented by Liberal MNAs at the National Assembly.
  • Mayor Stéphane Boyer steps away for at least two months: he’s undergoing surgery to remove a brain tumour; Ray Khalil takes over as interim.
  • The CAQ is wiped off the map: Christine Fréchette resigns as leader after the party fails to elect a single MNA.
  • Closures coming on Highway 25: the Louis-Hippolyte-La Fontaine tunnel will be shut toward the South Shore from October 9 to 13.

Around here

  • Suspicious fire in an unoccupied home in Sainte-Rose: the blaze, which broke out Monday late afternoon, is under police investigation.

In Canada

  • Canadian medical plane missing: authorities have identified those on board; four Canadians and two Bermudians.

Main story

Paul St-Pierre Plamondon’s Parti Québécois wins the election, will form a minority government

The Parti Québécois won the provincial election, ending eight years of Coalition Avenir Québec rule. Paul St-Pierre Plamondon will become Quebec’s next premier, leading a minority government.

The PQ took 59 seats, short of the 64 needed for a majority. The leader promised to work with other parties, especially on the budget.

“We will work so the budget reflects elements from other parties’ platforms, to collaborate on a viable fiscal framework,” he said in his victory speech.

Outgoing premier Mark Carney congratulated Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, saying he looks forward to working with him to support Quebec businesses and workers hit by tariffs, create good jobs, end homelessness, and build more housing.

The PQ has promised a referendum on independence, but not before Donald Trump leaves the White House.

In detail

Laval goes red: Liberals sweep all six ridings

All six Laval ridings will be represented by Quebec Liberal Party MNAs at the National Assembly. A red wave swept across Île Jésus, confirming pollsters’ predictions.

Among the Liberal wins: Dr. Cécile Tremblay in Sainte-Rose, unseating outgoing minister Christopher Skeete, who finished fourth. Caroline De Guire, former CEO of the Laval Chamber of Commerce and Industry, won Laval-des-Rapides, a riding that for only the second time since its creation will not be held by the party forming government.

Louis Ialenti returns Vimont-Auteuil to the Liberals, and Madeleine Féquière takes Chomedey. Virginie Dufour is re-elected in Mille-Îles.

Mayor Stéphane Boyer steps away for brain surgery; Ray Khalil takes over as interim

Laval’s mayor, Stéphane Boyer, announced he will step away for at least two months to undergo surgery to remove a brain tumour. In a video posted to social media, he explained the procedure is delicate but his chances of recovery are excellent.

Ray Khalil, vice-chair of the executive committee, will serve as interim. He will represent Laval on the boards of the Communauté métropolitaine de Montréal, the Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain, and the Union des municipalités du Québec.

CAQ wiped off the map: Christine Fréchette resigns

The Coalition Avenir Québec failed to elect a single MNA, a crushing defeat for a party that held 90 seats four years ago. Christine Fréchette, who lost her own riding of Trois-Rivières, resigned as leader.

“The defeat is mine, not yours; hold your heads high,” she told her supporters.

Closures coming on Highway 25 and the Louis-Hippolyte-La Fontaine tunnel

The Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility is announcing major closures on Highway 25, including the Louis-Hippolyte-La Fontaine tunnel, from October 9 to 13. The closure toward the South Shore will be complete from Friday 11 a.m. to Sunday 11 p.m., with a detour via the Champlain Bridge, then the Jacques-Cartier Bridge.

Nightly closures are also planned toward Montreal. The ministry recommends using public transit and checking Québec 511.

Coup de Cœur

Stéphane Boyer’s announcement, delivered with a touch of humour despite the ordeal, is a reminder that resilience can take many forms. His message to those who suffer, “you are not alone,” is a precious reminder in these uncertain times.

To close

Wishing you a day full of good news and gentleness, despite the upheaval. Take care of yourself and those around you, and don’t forget to check closures before hitting the road. ☕

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Laval Today. Oct. 1, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The morning chat

Good morning,

This morning, we open with news that hits close to home: a planned nature park between Laval and the North Shore may be in jeopardy, and Mayor Stéphane Boyer isn’t hiding his disappointment. We also look at the end of La Cordée, a heritage home under threat in Chomedey, and a soccer final that didn’t go FC Laval’s way. Plenty to fill your first cup of coffee.

What to know this morning

  • The Rivière-des-Mille-Îles conservation park in jeopardy: According to a La Presse investigation, the $100M Ottawa committed in 2025 for nature protection in Quebec may have been used for other purposes, and the nature park project between Laval and the North Shore is paying the price.
  • La Cordée is shutting down: The Quebec outdoor clothing chain, founded in 1953, will close its doors in the coming weeks after years of financial trouble.
  • A nearly 200-year-old heritage home threatened in Laval: Maison Verdon in Chomedey is deteriorating and could be demolished, much to the dismay of the Société d’histoire et de généalogie de l’Île Jésus.
  • FC Laval falls in the Coupe du Québec final: The Laval side lost 1-0 to Revolution FC, despite a remarkable season in Ligue1 QC.

At home

  • Rent increase protest in Laval: Nearly 30 people marched on September 19 to denounce housing costs, called by the union of CISSS de Laval workers.

In Canada

  • Canadian astronaut heads to the International Space Station: Joshua Kutryk is set to launch Thursday from Cape Canaveral for a six-month mission aboard the International Space Station.

Main story

Large conservation park project between Laval and the North Shore jeopardized by federal funds diversion

Mayor Stéphane Boyer reacted this morning on social media to a La Presse investigation suggesting the $100M Ottawa committed in 2025 for nature protection and conservation in Quebec may have been used for other purposes. Of that envelope, $65M had already been paid out.

The Rivière-des-Mille-Îles conservation park project was among the planned initiatives, along with the creation of urban parks. “It was an incredible project: creating a huge nature park between Laval and the North Shore,” Mayor Boyer recalled.

“Word on the street is the money went to cover the government’s deficit and pay its own expenses, rather than creating new natural areas,” he lamented, leaving it to the next government to fix the situation.

Éco-Nature’s executive director, Anaïs Boutin, said her fears were confirmed. The organization, which manages Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, had rallied the mayors of 11 riverside municipalities to grow the wildlife refuge from 26 to over 1,000 hectares of protected areas.

“We’ve come a long way,” Boutin said, refusing to give up. “Éco-Nature is an incredibly resilient organization; we’ll roll up our sleeves and I can’t wait to talk with elected officials and our partners. For me, it’s unthinkable that a project of this scale, which meets the goals Quebec set for itself, wouldn’t go ahead.”

In detail

La Cordée permanently closes its doors after years of financial struggles

The Quebec outdoor clothing chain announced Wednesday it will cease operations in the coming weeks. Founded in 1953, the company had sought creditor protection twice, most recently in July 2026, when it owed nearly $13 million to lenders and suppliers.

The Laval branch at Centropolis had already closed in early September. A closing sale began Wednesday at remaining open locations.

Nearly 200-year-old heritage home in Chomedey threatened with demolition

Maison Verdon, at 3753 boulevard Saint-Elzéar Ouest, is gradually deteriorating and faces demolition. The main part of the home was built in 1836, on foundations dating to at least 1771.

The Société d’histoire et de généalogie de l’Île Jésus (SHGIJ) is worried about the building’s condition, abandoned for years. Richard Verdon, spokesperson and descendant of the first family to live there, fears a fire could break out due to squatters.

“Water seeps into the building through broken openings, including one on the roof. This winter, the snow will cause more damage,” he explains.

FC Laval loses in the Coupe du Québec final

FC Laval lost 1-0 to Revolution FC at Stade Boréale in Laval. The winning goal came from Noureddine Chennoufi in the 4th minute.

Despite the loss, the west-island club can be proud of its season: champions of Ligue1 QC after starting with just one win in seven matches, then stringing together 10 straight victories. Thanks to that title, the Mauve et Blanc will compete in the 2027 Canadian Championship, alongside FC Supra.

Coup de Cœur

The Maison Verdon story reminds us that heritage isn’t just old stones. Behind the overgrowth hiding it, the memory of Île Jésus risks fading away—and citizens who refuse to let that happen.

To close

Wishing you a day that takes its time, despite the mounting files. And if you pass an old house, take a second to wonder what it tells. Have a great day, and see you tomorrow. ☕

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Laval Today. sep. 25, 2026

Laval QC ☕ The Morning Brief

Hello,

Today we look at health, politics and a viaduct that left its mark on Laval. We also take a look at a busy morning for drivers and a citizen initiative that makes getting around Place Bell a little easier.

What to know this morning

  • A judge orders Quebec to send bilingual electoral cards: A decision that directly affects Laval’s English‑speaking voters.
  • A setback for paratransit service: Nine positions will be cut at the Société de transport de Laval.

In Laval

  • A tight race in Sainte‑Rose: Qc125 projects a Liberal win, but the CAQ and PQ are close behind.
  • Laval‑des‑Rapides as a bellwether riding: A three‑way race that could help determine who forms the next government.
  • Vimont‑Auteuil may return to tradition: Qc125 sees the Liberal Party taking back the riding.

Across Canada

  • Tariffs threaten 53,112 Canadian small businesses: The CFIB is calling for expanded support measures.
  • Former RCMP intelligence officer granted day parole: Cameron Jay Ortis, convicted of violating the Security of Information Act, will begin reintegration.

Main Story

A citizen‑made map to navigate the Place Bell area

Finding a place to park or somewhere to eat near Place Bell has become a challenge for many Laval residents, especially on Rocket game nights or during major shows. With questions multiplying on social media, one resident decided to take action and created an interactive map that brings together parking options, transit access points, restaurants, hotels and even bike paths around Place Bell.

The map, updated based on community feedback, includes practical information that is often overlooked, such as free parking with shuttle service at 1333 Chomedey during Rocket games, and an important reminder to avoid parking at Centre Laval, where towing is quick. Users also suggested affordable options like Stationnement EM for those arriving by metro, as well as switching the map background to CyclOSM to display up‑to‑date bike paths.

This citizen initiative, born from a simple need to help people get around, is quickly becoming a reference tool for both visitors and residents. It is a reminder that sometimes the best solutions come directly from the community.

In Detail

In Laval: Update on Mayor Stéphane Boyer’s health

Laval Mayor Stéphane Boyer shared a new update on his health, one week after announcing that he had been diagnosed with a meningioma, a brain tumour. After his first appointment with a neurosurgeon, he posted an image of the tumour, which he compares to the size of a golf ball, and said he remains able to carry out his duties while reducing some public activities this fall.

Boyer, who had been experiencing headaches and visual disturbances for several months before undergoing an MRI, says he still feels energetic and fully capable. He says he is moving forward “with serenity” and leaning on small daily comforts, including bringing a box of doughnuts to his team, to keep spirits up.

Elected in 2021 at age 33, he is the youngest mayor in Laval’s history and was re‑elected in 2025. His diagnosis comes ten months into his current mandate, which runs until 2029.

Practical Tip

Place Bell: Easier parking and access

If you plan to head to Place Bell for a show or a Rocket game, a citizen‑made map now brings together parking options, transit access points, restaurants and bike paths in the area. Note the free parking with shuttle service at 1333 boulevard Chomedey during games, and a key reminder to avoid Centre Laval, where towing is quick. To plan your trip, check the interactive map before you go.

Coup de coeur

Mayor Stéphane Boyer’s quiet strength

Our highlight of the day goes to Stéphane Boyer, who is facing a personal challenge with a calm determination that is rare in politics. Without dramatizing, he chooses transparency, stays present for his team and continues moving forward with a quiet strength that inspires. In a city where leadership is measured not only in decisions but also in how one navigates difficult moments, his attitude shows that resilience can be a form of public service.

Before we go

We wish you a day that leaves room for reflection and gentleness. Whether you take a moment to remember or simply enjoy the day, we hope you find a bit of time for yourself. See you tomorrow.☕