In this episode, Mayor Richard Burcombe, Planning Director Camille Urli, and Communications Director Ghyslain Forcier discuss highlights from the most recent Council meeting and other key topics. Click on the image ⬆️ to watch the video.

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING WILL TAKE PLACE ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2025, AT 7 P.M. AT CENTRE LAC-BROME.

A Pause to Rethink Real Estate Development in Brome Lake

On August 4, elected officials adopted an interim control resolution (ICR) resulting in a temporary freeze on certain construction projects in the downtown Knowlton area.

This moratorium, which will last approximately 12 months, is part of a strategic planning process aimed at defining a clear and shared vision for the development of this key area.

The freeze will affect all new multi-unit residential construction, including buildings taller than three stories, integrated projects, and the extension and opening of new streets.

Click here for more details.

 

Return to Normal Drinking Water Service

The break in our secondary well has been repaired in the last few hours and our daily water production capacity is now back to normal.
A big thank you to everyone involved in this quick response!

The Town of Brome Lake would also like to thank everyone who responded to our call.

Thanks to you, water consumption has been reduced by 30% since Tuesday.

We remind you, however, of the importance of using water responsibly and consulting municipal regulations on drinking water use in order to preserve this resource.

Click here to view the regulations

 

Trestle Cove File

If you haven't already, listen to The Council at a Glance starting at 35 seconds to learn more.

 

Tax Bill: Final Instalment Due in September

Don't forget to make the final payment on your tax bill before Wednesday, September 10, 2025.

Several payment methods are accepted.

Full details are available on our website.

 

Municipal Elections and Meeting Schedule

Due to municipal elections scheduled for November 2, 2025, two regular municipal council meetings will be held in September: Tuesday, September 2 and Monday, September 29.

 

Before Cutting Down a Tree, Obtain a Permit.

In Brome Lake, a tree-cutting permit (certificate of authorization) is required before cutting down a tree, even if it is diseased or appears dangerous. The permit is free and easy to apply for online by clicking here.

Some companies may urge you to proceed quickly without mentioning this requirement. However, all cutting without a permit is prohibited, regardless of the circumstances.

The regulations are intended to protect our forest cover and biodiversity and ensure the quality of our landscapes. Trees are part of our collective heritage.

A permit may be issued if the tree is dead, irreversibly diseased, hazardous, or hindering the growth of nearby trees. It is also possible for construction work involving tree removal. This type of tree removal will be handled in conjunction with the building permit.

Before taking any action, check with the Planning Department or visit the Town website.

Thank you for contributing to a healthy and sustainable environment!

 

The Town of Brome Lake Is Seeking a Director of Finance and Treasury

Are you experienced in municipal finances?
Join our dynamic team!

As Director of Finance and Treasury, you will play a key role in managing the Town's finances.

Your main responsibilities will include:

  • Provide strategic advice to senior management and other departments;
  • Oversee accounting, tax, and cash flow operations to ensure sound management;
  • Implement rigorous control mechanisms in accordance with municipal accounting standards.

Click here to view the job posting.

 

Election Staff Recruitment: Citizens Invited to Get Involved

To ensure that next fall's municipal elections run smoothly, the Town is looking for motivated and committed citizens! Several paid positions are available for advance polling on October 26, election day on November 2, as well as for the Board of Review and mobile voting. Get involved at the heart of the democratic process and make a meaningful contribution to local democracy!

If you are interested, please fill out the employment form for election staff available on our website.

You can also submit your application at Town Hall, 122 Lakeside Road, to the attention of Election President Owen Falquero.

The deadline to submit your application is September 1, 2025!

 

A section of Victoria Street will be closed to traffic this fall

The Ministère des Transports du Québec will begin work to replace the deck of the bridge located on Victoria Street, at Pine Street.

Construction is scheduled to begin on August 18 and continue until the end of December.

A section of Victoria Street will therefore be closed to traffic during this period.

Motorists are advised to use the detour route via Victoria Street, Maple Street, Knowlton Road, and Pine Street.

 

Financial assistance for low- and moderate-income owner-occupants

The MRC Brome-Missisquoi, mandated by the Société d’habitation du Québec (SHQ), has a budget of $86,700 available under the RénoRégion Program (PRR).

This program is intended for low-income owner-occupants who need to carry out major repairs on their primary residence.

Click here for more information about the program or to access the pre-registration form.

Riparian Buffers

Did you know that your riparian zone can be a pleasant, attractive, and functional space?

In addition to taking into account the conditions of your land when designing your riparian zone, it is a good idea to choose plants that suit your interests.

A riparian buffer has several ecological roles, such as rainwater infiltration, but it can also allow you to grow small fruits or attract birds and butterflies, for example.

We invite you to visit the Town's website for help in improving your riparian buffer.

We have expanded the information to include details on the roles of riparian strips, possible types of landscaping, and regulations.

We have even included landscaping plans in the tool’s section. One type of landscaping can be replicated across the entire riparian strip or mixed with other types to increase biodiversity.

While many of you chose to space out your lawn mowing at the beginning of summer to let the vegetation establish, autumn is the perfect time to plant trees and shrubs, helping to strengthen your riparian buffer. The cool weather and rain allow plants to establish themselves without shock and thrive in the spring. Do you have a planting plan in mind? We will be happy to review it to ensure that it complies with regulations.

 

Cyanobacteria: Be Aware

It’s currently cyanobacteria bloom season in Brome Lake, with several areas reporting the presence of algae blooms.

Why are cyanobacteria developing now?

Warm weather, water temperatures above 25 °C (77 °F), sediment resuspension, and nutrients entering the lake from nearby shores and streams all contribute to the growth of these photosynthetic bacteria.

Commonly known as blue-green algae, cyanobacteria adjust their buoyancy to reach the ideal depth. On sunny days, they rise to the surface and are carried by waves toward the shore, forming blooms. Resembling broccoli soup or spilled paint, these blooms can produce toxins that are harmful to humans and other living organisms if ingested.

When present in low density, seen as small green flakes dispersed in the water column without affecting water clarity, there is no risk to swimming or recreational water activities.

However, when densities are high and visibility is reduced to less than 2 m (6 ft), it’s best to avoid swimming or engaging in water activities for your health and safety.

Blooms are often very localized and may occur only in specific areas. If you are more than 3 m (10 ft) away from a bloom, it is safe to access the lake.

Any cyanobacteria blooms should be reported to the Ministry of the Environment by completing this form (in French only).

 

Click here for more details on water blooms (in French)

Fundraiser

From August 20 to 24 at Centre Lac-Brome, collectors and art lovers are invited to discover 50+ original paintings inspired by the beauty of water.

A special invitation

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or an art enthusiast, this exhibition—organized by multidisciplinary artist Muriel Faille as part of the Au cœur de l’eau project—is the perfect opportunity to acquire a unique piece while helping protect our lake.

Buy, support, protect

Single price: $225 per artwork

20% of each sale will be donated to the conservation of Brome Lake’s waters

Payment: cash only (on site)

Featured artists

Renée Durocher • Muriel Faille • Denise Lachapelle • Claire Lemay • Lise Létourneau • Dominique Sarrazin • Carole Simard-Laflamme … and many more!

All the details right here: facebook.com/events/4109738892602632