In the South Manche, a new mayor was elected in Mesnillard

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Following the resignation of Yves Gérard, the municipal council of Mesnillard (South Manche) appointed a new mayor this Tuesday, October 29. At 60 years old, it is Christian Dunaud, municipal councilor since 2014, who puts on the costume of councilor, worn for more than twenty years by his predecessor. Until the end of the mandate, his ambition is to continue the work started by Yves Gérard in the commune.

What pushed you to run for the position of mayor of Le Mesnillard?

Christian Dunaud: I was not aware that Yves Gérard was going to resign before he announced it. When he revealed it to the council, I could see that no one at the table seemed motivated to take his place. So after thinking a little, I told myself that I was available as a retiree, compared to others who are still working. I didn't really want to be mayor, but the municipality needs to keep running, so I ran.

What were you doing before that?

CD: I am retired and have served on the municipal council since 2014. Before that I worked in the national navy. I spent part of my career in Cherbourg, but I have lived in Le Mesnillard since 2007. I am also president of the Archers du Harcouët club.

You are taking over from Yves Gérard who has been in office since 2001. Do you feel any pressure?

CD: Of course there is pressure to follow him. I have been on the municipal council since 2014 and until now I was simply a councilor. But Yves Gérard remains 2nd assistant, so knowing that he is there is reassuring. We are not released into the wild. It remains good advice, especially when we face unforeseen situations. I also have Vincent Avenel, the 1st deputy, who knows the tricks.

There are approximately 18 months left before the next municipal elections. What are your goals between now and then?

CD: I didn't take on this role to add a nice line at the bottom of my CV. I want to act for the public good, for the people of the community. They are the priority. The objective is to continue the work of Yves Gérard. We no longer have major works to carry out, such as road repairs which required large sums of money. But there are still ongoing issues, such as mandatory addressing, which we need to discuss with residents. We must also complete the 2025 budget and check that it corresponds to reality.

Could you consider a new term in 2026 or is it temporary?

CD: Why not. It's not something I'm closed to. But knowing how this end of mandate goes, obviously. If it's a disaster, I prefer to withdraw. Once again what matters is the people.

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