In a long-awaited decision, the Superior Court has ruled in favor of Rigaud municipal councillor Charles Meunier, confirming his legitimacy as an elected representative. The Court thus invalidates the arguments of the Ville de Rigaud and its mayor, Marie-Claude Frigault, which would have had the effect of preventing the councillor from sitting and possibly running in the next election.

In April 2023, Rigaud's municipal council adopted a resolution authorizing the filing of an application to the Quebec Superior Court for a declaration of disqualification of the councillor.

The reason given was that Mr. Meunier had not complied with the eligibility rules concerning his place of residence in the 12 months preceding the 2021 election.

In the spring of 2023, the DGEQ found in favor of the councillor and closed the file without further action. Despite this decision, the mayor and the other councillors nevertheless initiated a class action in Superior Court, all at the expense of Rigaud taxpayers, who defrayed the legal fees of both parties.

At city level, Mayor Marie-Claude Frigault told Néomédia that the council was studying the Court's decision and preferred not to comment.

The Court rule

In its decision handed down on April 22, 2024, the Superior Court completely refuted the Plaintiff's claims, ruling that “the City's position regarding its disqualification under article 61 LERM is unfounded”.

At a time when the City of Rigaud is struggling to recover from a period of political turbulence, Mr. Meunier hopes that this decision will allow for more serene debates, in order to restore public confidence in the work of their elected officials. “The citizens of Rigaud deserve to have a group of elected officials who will take on the important issues of improving the quality of life and well-being of our city's citizens in a sustainable manner."

Charles Meunier intends to continue his duties within the municipal administration, with the renewed support and confidence of his constituents.