The City of Montreal swore-in its new mayor and city councillors Thursday afternoon and for the first time in 375 years a woman will be sitting in the Mayor’s office.
With bagpipes blaring and images of influential Montreal women making up pre-ceremony presentations, there was definitely a sense of "history" in the air.
No sooner had Plante and her Projet Montreal colleagues been sworn-in, Mme. Plante wasted no time getting to work and outlined areas she’s focused on.
"Our partners in Quebec City and in Ottawa are also dedicated in making sure that our city has what it needs to make Montreal moving again."
“Mobility” is at the top of Plante's list, whether you’re walking, riding a bike or driving, but it was clear where Projet Montréal’s focus is.
"Buses on the roads because there's a lot missing,” said Plante. “The money is there. The window of opportunity is there. We will make it happen.”
Plante said she has already been speaking with partners in Quebec City and Ottawa about getting things moving.
The new mayor refused to answer a question about her campaign commitment for free metro access for children and seniors.
“Hopefully I can make an announcement about this very shortly,” she said.
Other key priorities include security for pedestrians, especially seniors and cyclists; improved social housing and better neighbourhoods; as well as public services that are more responsive to citizen’s needs; and economic development that has a focus on local.
Plante also promised greater transparency from the mayor’s office going forward. For example, people wanting to have a meeting with “la mairesse, will have to register” before doing so.
“Business has already started,” said Plante “So, I’m just going to continue tomorrow. I have a big, big agenda. Those are busy days” ahead.