The Municipality of Sainte-Marthe took advantage of Municipality Week, which ends this Saturday, September 16, to honor some of its employees. What do they have in common? More than 10 years of service or involvement in the small town nestled in the heart of Vaudreuil-Soulanges. 

"When a municipality presents its financial statements, reference is often made to assets, holdings and cash flow, but never to the human resources behind these results. And why is that? Because, in my opinion, they're priceless and can't be put a value on. This is the first time we've held this kind of evening, and we've promised to repeat the formula every year," says Michel Bertrand, General Manager of the Municipality of Sainte-Marthe. 

On a day-to-day basis, four employees work full time at the Town Hall to serve residents to the best of their ability and knowledge. They are sometimes joined by up to 10 part-time employees, depending on the season and the needs to be met. 

Seven employees honoured 

On Thursday, September 14, during a 5 à 7, the Municipality of Sainte-Marthe honored seven employees with more than 10 years' service on the municipal organization chart.

"We wanted to bring them together to thank them for their daily contribution to the smooth running of the municipality, but also for their kindness and attention to citizens. We honored three elected officials, including Mayor François Pleau, 2 firefighters, 1 firewoman and a school crossing guard. We are very fortunate to be able to count on them and the rest of our team.There's no turnover at Sainte-Marthe, and our staff is loyal" he adds. 

Gilbert Séguin and Ginny Brunelle, both with 10 years' service to the community, were thanked for their involvement. Mayor François Pleau was also honored. "It's a surprise, he didn't know about it.We wanted to do it because he's been working for the community since 2013, for 10 years.First he was a firefighter, then first responder, councillor and finally mayor. This career path is a testament to his love for the community." 

Firefighter Pierre-Marc Dawson was also honored for his 10 years of service with the 22-strong part-time fire brigade. He is the brother of Marc-Antoine Dawson, recently appointed captain of the Coteau-du-Lac Fire Department. 

For her part, Sandra Ross was thanked for her 15 years of service as a firefighter." She is truly a pioneer who paved the way for many other women who joined the SSI later on. We were very happy to recognize her years of service."

For her part, Brigadier Liane Pilon, who brightens up the days of the community's young and old on a daily basis, was also honoured for her 20 years in the position. 

François Coulombe, however, is the longest-serving member of the municipal apparatus, having been on the job for 25 years. 

The recognition ceremony took place at the community center in the Town Hall.