Todd Lalonde

Background

I was born and raised in Cornwall, and my connection to this community has shaped both my career and my commitment to public service. My professional and volunteer experience has given me a deep understanding of the people, services, and challenges that shape our city. I am a retired Supervisor of Parks and Landscaping with the City of Cornwall’s Infrastructure and Municipal Works Division. During my career, I worked in a variety of municipal roles and gained extensive experience in operations, infrastructure, budgets, staff leadership, equipment, maintenance, and delivering the services residents rely on every day. My commitment to public service continued through 16 years as a Trustee and Chair of the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario and as Eastern Ontario Regional Director with the Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association. I have also served on numerous community and public boards, including the Eastern Ontario Health Unit, Family Counselling Centre, United Way, Children’s Treatment Centre, and the SDG OPP Detachment Board. I currently serve as a Commissioner with the St. Lawrence Parks Commission and as a host with YourTV Cornwall. My father, Ray, and my brother, Perry, also served on Cornwall City Council, so public service has been an important part of my family’s history. For me, serving on Council would be an opportunity to continue that tradition while using the experience I have gained throughout my career and community service to give back to the city.

Top Priorities

1. Affordability and Responsible Spending: My top priority is affordability. Council must respect taxpayers, keep property tax increases as low as possible, find efficiencies, and make sure every tax dollar is spent responsibly. My years managing municipal operations have taught me that we must focus on what we need before what we want. 2. Infrastructure and Essential Services: We need to continue investing in the roads, sidewalks, water and sewer systems, drainage, parks, and other services residents rely on every day. My experience with the City of Cornwall has given me a practical understanding of the importance of planning ahead, maintaining what we have, and making responsible long term investments. 3. A Safe, Growing and Stronger Cornwall: We need responsible growth that supports housing, attracts investment and jobs, and strengthens our community while protecting the quality of life in our neighbourhoods. Having been born and raised in Cornwall, I want to use my experience in municipal government and community service to help build a stronger future for families, seniors, businesses, and the generations that follow. My approach is simple: listen to residents, make informed and responsible decisions, and put Cornwall’s needs first.

1. The 2026 Budget & Property Taxes: The 2026 municipal budget passed with a 5.41% increase to the property tax levy, bringing the "average" residential property tax bill to nearly $3,270. As a City Councillor, how will you approach future budget deliberations to balance the necessity of maintaining essential city services while ensuring the commercial tax rate remains competitive enough to attract new investment?

I believe future budgets must start with a simple principle: needs before wants. Essential services such as roads, water and sewer, public safety, parks, and other services residents rely on every day must be protected, but that does not mean every proposed expenditure should automatically be approved. With my experience working in municipal operations and managing people, equipment, budgets and service delivery, I understand the importance of finding efficiencies, planning ahead and getting value for every tax dollar. As a Councillor, I would ask the difficult questions, carefully review spending, prioritize essential services, and look for opportunities to reduce costs without compromising the services residents depend on. At the same time, Cornwall needs a strong and growing assessment base. The 2026 budget shows commercial assessment growth of approximately $96.8 million, demonstrating the importance of attracting and retaining investment. I would support policies that make Cornwall a competitive place to invest, while ensuring growth contributes to the services and infrastructure our community needs. I believe we can be fiscally responsible without losing sight of our community’s needs. My goal would be to keep tax increases as low as reasonably possible, protect essential services, encourage responsible economic growth, and make sure every major spending decision is in the long term interest of Cornwall’s residents.

2. Red Tape & Business Licensing: The City has been working to modernize its Business Licensing By-law to consolidate decades old regulations and reduce licensing categories. If elected to Council, what specific steps will you champion to further streamline the permitting, zoning, and licensing processes and reduce the administrative burden on small business owners?

I understand that for a small business owner, time is money. When you are trying to run a business, create jobs, and serve your customers, spending unnecessary time trying to understand permits, zoning requirements, or licensing processes can be frustrating and costly. Having spent many years working in municipal operations, I understand the importance of having clear processes and good communication between departments. If elected, I would support a more coordinated, one stop approach where business owners can clearly understand what approvals they need, who they need to speak with, the costs involved, and how long the process is expected to take. I would also support expanding online applications and tracking where practical. Most importantly, I would want Council to listen to local business owners and regularly ask, “Is this process actually necessary, or is there a better way to do it?” We can maintain the standards that protect our community while removing unnecessary barriers. I want to see Cornwall be a place where people feel encouraged to invest, open a business, and grow. As a former municipal employee, I know how important good administration is; as a candidate for Council, I want to make sure that administration works for the people we serve.

3. Infrastructure Prioritization: The City's Asset Management Plan indicates a significant backlog of infrastructure renewal projects. Which specific municipal infrastructure investments (e.g., road maintenance, transit expansion, water/wastewater upgrades) will you advocate for as an immediate priority over the next four years to support local industry and residents?

Infrastructure is something I care deeply about because I spent many years working in Cornwall’s municipal operations. I’ve seen firsthand how important well maintained roads, sidewalks, water and wastewater systems, drainage, parks and other services are to the daily lives of residents and to the success of local businesses and industry. Over the next four years, I would make renewing and maintaining the infrastructure we already have my immediate priority, particularly where the need is greatest. We cannot continue to put off essential repairs while taking on projects that are more about wants than needs. I would use the City’s Asset Management Plan, condition assessments and long term financial planning to help determine where our limited resources should go. I would also strongly advocate for provincial and federal funding to help reduce the burden on Cornwall taxpayers. My experience has taught me that good preventative maintenance and responsible planning can save money and avoid bigger problems down the road. As a Councillor, I would listen to residents, understand the needs of our community and make sure our essential infrastructure comes first because taking care of what we already have is one of the most responsible things we can do for Cornwall’s future.

4. The Port Lands Development: The 16-acre Port Lands, jointly owned by the municipality and the Akwesasne First Nation, is a major waterfront asset. What is your vision for the future development of this parcel, and how will you work within Council to ensure the partnership fosters mutually beneficial economic growth for the region?

The Port Lands represent an exciting opportunity for Cornwall, and I believe we need to approach its future with both vision and care. Having been born and raised in Cornwall and having spent many years working for the City of Cornwall, including as a Supervisor of Parks and Landscaping, I understand how important responsible planning and investment are to the future of our community. My municipal experience taught me that successful projects are not just about buildings or property, they are about people, jobs, services and the community we leave for the next generation. I would bring that practical experience to the table while taking the time to listen to the people and partners involved. I believe the partnership with Akwesasne First Nation should be built on respect, trust and open communication. We should work together to understand our shared goals and find opportunities that create meaningful economic benefits for both communities and the broader region. As a Councillor, I would encourage a thoughtful, collaborative approach to the Port Lands, one that recognizes the importance of this waterfront property and makes sure its development creates lasting opportunities for Cornwall, Akwesasne and future generations.

5. Housing Supply & Affordability: Cornwall is facing a critical housing shortage across all income brackets. What specific municipal actions will you advocate for at the Council table (e.g., zoning amendments, targeted development incentives, utilizing city-owned land) to accelerate residential development and ensure a mix of affordable options?

Housing is personal to me because I want Cornwall to be a community where my family, your family, seniors, young people and people who work here, can afford to live. My years working in municipal operations taught me that good planning today can prevent bigger problems and costs tomorrow. At Council, I would advocate for practical steps to increase housing supply, including reviewing zoning and development processes to reduce unnecessary delays, supporting a greater mix of housing such as apartments, town homes, semi-detached homes and additional residential units, and looking at appropriate City owned lands that could be made available for residential development. I would also support targeted, responsible incentives where they can help bring forward housing that Cornwall actually needs, particularly smaller and more affordable units. Cornwall’s own Housing Needs Assessment shows that smaller units and affordable housing are areas of significant need. At the same time, development has to be matched with infrastructure. My municipal experience has taught me that roads, water, sewer, drainage and other services must be planned alongside growth. I believe we can encourage more housing while respecting existing neighbourhoods and being responsible with taxpayers’ dollars. We need to build more, build smart, and make sure Cornwall remains a place where people can afford to put down roots and raise their families.

6. Addressing Homelessness: Complex social issues like homelessness affect vulnerable individuals and impact the downtown business community. As a Councillor, what is your strategy for ensuring the municipality effectively supports collaborative community initiatives (like The Stepping Stone project), and what specific city resources or policies will you commit to reducing the number of unhoused individuals?

Homelessness is a complex issue that requires compassion, accountability and collaboration. As a retired City of Cornwall supervisor, I understand firsthand how important it is to bring people, resources and organizations together to solve difficult problems. As a Councillor, I would: - Support community partnerships and work closely with organizations providing housing, mental health, addiction and outreach services. - Improve coordination between the City, community agencies, healthcare providers and other levels of government so people can access the right support and move toward stable housing. - Support more transitional and supportive housing, while pursuing provincial and federal funding to reduce the financial burden on local taxpayers. - Focus on prevention by helping people at risk of losing their housing. - Hold programs accountable for results, including tracking whether people are moving from emergency situations into stable, long term housing. - Protect the quality of life in our community, recognizing that supporting vulnerable people and maintaining safe, clean public spaces for residents and downtown businesses, must go hand in hand. My years as a City supervisor, school trustee and board chair taught me that complex problems are solved through strong partnerships, responsible use of resources and accountability. I believe Cornwall needs an approach that combines compassion with practical action helping people get back on their feet while being responsible to taxpayers and the entire community.

7. Youth Retention & Workforce Development: A common challenge for local businesses is attracting and retaining skilled talent. How will you use your position on Council to work with local institutions like St. Lawrence College and the business community to encourage youth to build their careers in Cornwall rather than relocating to larger urban centers?

Having built my education, career and family life in this community, I understand how important it is to give young people a reason to stay in Cornwall. My experience gives me a unique perspective. I spent my career with the City of Cornwall and served for many years as a Trustee and Chair of the Board of Trustees with the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario. I have seen firsthand the importance of preparing young people for the workforce and connecting education with real opportunities. As a Councillor, I would work closely with our school boards, local businesses, trades, employers and community organizations to strengthen pathways from education into local careers, including co-op placements, apprenticeships, mentorship and employment opportunities. We also need to create an environment where businesses can grow, invest and create good local jobs. As a husband, father and someone who has spent my career serving this community, I want young people to see Cornwall not simply as a place they grew up, but as a place where they can build a career, raise a family and put down roots.

8. Industrial Expansion & Logistics: Cornwall has a strong history as a logistics and industrial hub, recently seeing investments like the Michelin Distribution Centre, but the city must remain competitive. How will you support the transportation sector and advocate for infrastructure improvements that meet the evolving needs of local industry?

Cornwall has a proud history as an industrial and transportation hub, and I believe we need to build on that foundation. Having spent my career working in municipal operations, I understand firsthand how important reliable roads, water and sewer systems, drainage, and efficient transportation infrastructure are to local businesses and the people who work for them. As a Councillor, I would support strategic infrastructure investments that help industry grow while protecting taxpayers from unnecessary costs. I would work with local businesses, the transportation sector, the Port, and our provincial and federal partners to identify infrastructure needs and pursue funding opportunities that strengthen Cornwall’s competitive position. I also believe we need to make it easier for businesses to invest and expand in Cornwall by reducing unnecessary red tape and ensuring our infrastructure planning keeps pace with growth. We have an opportunity to attract new investment, create good local jobs, and strengthen our tax base. My approach is simple: plan ahead, invest in the infrastructure we need, and make sure our industrial growth benefits Cornwall’s families, workers, businesses, and future generations.

9. Tourism, Events, & Local Initiatives: Tourism is a significant economic driver for our local hospitality and retail sectors. How can City Council better support local events, festivals, and community initiatives to drive tourism, and what municipal resources or support do you believe should be provided to ensure their success?

Cornwall is more than a place where I have worked, it is the community I was born and raised in, and a community I have spent my life serving. I have seen from experience how festivals, community events, our waterfront, parks, and local initiatives bring people together, create pride in our city, and support local businesses. Through my many years working for the City of Cornwall and my involvement with organizations and community initiatives, I understand the work that goes on behind the scenes to make events successful. I also understand that organizers often need practical support, clear communication, and cooperation from the City. As a Councillor, I would work closely with event organizers, local businesses, tourism partners, community groups, and City staff to make it easier to bring good ideas forward. That could include access to City facilities and parks, coordinated permitting, appropriate municipal services, promotion, and helping organizations identify provincial and federal funding opportunities. I want to see Cornwall become a place where people are proud to host events, proud to attend them, and proud to bring family and friends to our city. I want to help build on what makes Cornwall special while ensuring taxpayer resources are used responsibly. Supporting local events is not just about tourism, it is about investing in our community, supporting local businesses, creating memories for families, and building the pride and sense of belonging that make Cornwall a great place to call home.

10. Council Dynamics & Community Voice: The 2026 municipal budget was passed utilizing provincial "Strong Mayor" powers. Regardless of your stance on those specific powers, how will you ensure that as a City Councillor, you effectively represent the voice of the public and the business community in major municipal decisions, ensuring accountability and transparency at City Hall?

For me, being a Councillor is about representing the people of Cornwall, not simply having a seat at the Council table. I was born and raised in this community, spent many years working for the City, and have had the privilege of serving residents through elected and community roles. Those experiences have taught me the importance of listening, asking questions, and treating people with respect, even when there are differences of opinion. Regardless of how decisions are made, I believe the Council must remain accountable to the public. I would make it a priority to listen to residents, local businesses, community organizations, and City staff before important decisions are made, and to clearly explain my position and the information behind it. My municipal experience has also taught me that responsible leadership means being prepared to ask the difficult questions about costs, priorities, contracts, and long-term impacts. Transparency is not just about making information available, it is about making sure people can understand how and why decisions are being made. As a Councillor, I would bring an independent voice to Council, work respectfully with my colleagues, and never forget who I am there to represent, the residents of Cornwall. My commitment would be to listen first, ask the tough questions, communicate openly, and make decisions based on what is in the best long term interest of Cornwall and its residents.

11. Maintaining Decorum and Handling Misinformation: City Councillors are increasingly subject to intense public scrutiny and are often the target of misinformation or disinformation spread across social media. Additionally, this scrutiny can sometimes escalate into harassment or abusive language. The City’s Code of Conduct requires Councillors to treat everyone with respect and maintain professional decorum, even when facing hostile or factually incorrect public discourse. How will you personally handle the pressures of social media, combat local misinformation without escalating conflicts, and ensure that your interactions both online and offline, foster a respectful, constructive environment that upholds the integrity of City Council?

I have spent much of my life serving this community, and I understand that public service means being willing to listen to people even when the conversation is difficult or critical. During my years with the City of Cornwall, 16 years as a school board trustee, including serving as Chair of the Board, and through my many community roles, I have learned how important it is to remain respectful, calm, and focused when people have different opinions. Social media has changed how public officials communicate, and I believe Councillors need to use it responsibly. When misinformation is shared, I would not get into personal battles or fuel an argument. I would provide the facts, explain the information as clearly as possible, and direct people to reliable sources. If I do not know the answer, I will say so and take the time to get the right information. I also believe residents should feel comfortable questioning their elected representatives. I will listen to criticism and take legitimate concerns seriously, even when I may not agree with them. But I also believe there is a line between strong disagreement and personal attacks. I will always treat people with respect and expect the same in return. As a Councillor, I will not let social media pressure change the way I conduct myself. I will lead with the same values that have guided me throughout my career and community service: listen, be honest, stay respectful, check the facts, and focus on solutions. My responsibility is to serve the people of Cornwall, not to win arguments on social media.