The mayor of Louiseville, Yvon Deshaies, wants to ban the construction of basements in the future residential complex of this Mauricie town, comprising 125 lots.
After the extensive damage caused by Storm Debby, he wants to better prepare and protect citizens from future floods.
“Without a basement, construction with a cement base will avoid a lot of problems. People will also be happier,” he says.
This project particularly concerns the residential development of rue Jean-Lechasseur, where the mayor hopes to implement this ban.
According to him, houses built on cement slabs would be better protected in the event of further flooding, thus limiting the impacts on residents.
“It’s still just a house on a slab, it’s just as beautiful and much more practical. People will just have to build other floors,” adds Mr. Deshaies.
“I saw the misery in the eyes of my stricken citizens. Children came to hug my leg, people cried in my arms. Sir, I cried in the evening at home. As mayor, I must find solutions,” confides the mayor, touched by the distress of his fellow citizens.
Although he expects many reactions from citizens, Yvon Deshaies believes that it is essential to act to prevent natural disasters and ensure the long-term safety of the population.
Some residents already understand the importance of these measures. “I understand why they want to protect, it’s a good deal,” comments a citizen.
Yvon Deshaies will, however, have to convince a majority within the municipal council for a by-law prohibiting basements in new constructions to be adopted, a project which could well inspire other municipalities confronted with the effects of climate change.