Snow, salt and small-town limits in Ayer’s Cliff

This interview features Ayer’s Cliff Mayor Alec Van Zuiden responding to public concerns after sandy, salty snow was pushed toward the lake during recent winter road-clearing operations along Route 141. The issue gained attention following photos shared by residents on social media, raising questions about environmental impact, accountability, and jurisdiction.

In the conversation, Van Zuiden explains that the stretch of road in question falls under the responsibility of the Ministère des Transports du Québec (MTQ), not the municipality. He outlines the steps taken by the Town of Ayer’s Cliff, including formally submitting a letter of complaint to the MTQ, and discusses the limits of municipal authority in situations involving provincial infrastructure. While acknowledging that some snow inevitably reaches the lake during winter maintenance, he describes the scale and visibility of the situation as unusual and concerning.

The interview also places the snow-removal issue within a broader discussion of municipal governance. Van Zuiden reflects on recent council meetings in Ayer’s Cliff, describing improved collaboration between elected officials and municipal administration, a calmer public atmosphere, and a renewed focus on transparency. He contrasts this stability with challenges faced by other small municipalities in Quebec, including leadership strain and increasing responsibilities downloaded from higher levels of government.

Additional topics include staffing adjustments, expanded community programming for youth, and upcoming strategic planning sessions intended to help council prioritize major files over the next four years.