Sutton mayor outlines priorities after re-election

In a Nov. 19 interview, Sutton Mayor Robert Benoit reflected on his re-election and the major issues shaping his new mandate. Benoit highlighted the municipality’s voter turnout, which reached nearly 60 per cent—one of the highest participation rates in the region. He noted that Sutton re-elected a mayor for the first time in 25 years, a sign, he said, that residents valued “continuity and stability.”

Benoit outlined several challenges the town is facing, with water availability at the top of the list. A moratorium remains in place on new mountain-area construction due to shortages. The technical solution—pumping water from valley aquifers to higher elevations—would cost roughly $20 million, far exceeding the town’s annual budget. He emphasized that Sutton will require financial assistance to address long-term supply issues. The municipality also had to truck water to the mountain this year.

Housing affordability is another key concern. New property assessments increased by about 43 per cent, pushing the average home value from $460,000 to $660,000. Benoit said this benefits current owners but makes it difficult for young families to enter the market. Sutton is developing affordable rental housing, including a non-profit project proposing 24 units at approximately half the market rate.

The mayor also discussed Hydro-Québec’s plan to build 45-metre transmission towers through the region. Sutton and neighbouring municipalities are pushing for a lower-impact alternative using 20-metre structures.

Benoit said he intends to keep tax increases at or below the provincial inflation rate despite pressures from regional budgets and aging infrastructure.