Amherstburg councillor thanked for how she dealt with the public

As Amherstburg approaches the next municipal election, I believe it is important to recognize and thank Councillor Diane Pouget for her many years of dedicated service to our community. Through her years on council and involvement on numerous committees, Diane has consistently demonstrated a commitment to listening to residents, asking difficult questions, and working to make Amherstburg a better place.

When concerns were raised about AI data centres, Diane listened and took action. Her motion calling for a moratorium was not about stopping progress or development. It was about taking the time to gather information, listen to residents, and ensure decisions were made responsibly before moving forward.

A moratorium is a responsible planning tool that allows a municipality time to understand potential impacts and make informed decisions. That is what proactive leadership looks like.

Thank you to residents like Julia Darby and Bill Petruniak, who dedicated countless hours researching this issue and bringing important information forward. Unfortunately, they were not allowed to present their concerns to council at the July 13 council meeting. Under the current procedural bylaw, waiving the rules of order required a unanimous vote. Councillor Linden Crain and Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb opposed waiving those rules, and the opportunity for them to address council directly did not move forward.

Public participation is an important part of democracy, and residents who invest their time and effort to help inform council deserve to be heard.

Diane Pouget has consistently demonstrated leadership through action. Her commitment to addressing the unsafe Boblo dock was instrumental in bringing attention to the issue and ultimately seeing it removed. Her advocacy for emergency preparedness and the importance of Amherstburg’s nuclear warning sirens, along with her willingness to listen to concerns about AI data centres, reflects thoughtful and dedicated service.

As residents prepare to vote, I encourage everyone to look beyond campaign promises and consider the decisions, votes, and actions of those who have served. The public record tells the story.

Thank you, Diane, for your dedication and service to Amherstburg. Your voice at the council table will truly be missed.

 —Alison Baldwin

Amherstburg 

Amherstburg councillor thanked for how she dealt with the public