complex would join existing buildings at the Chateau, adding to West Nipissing’s not-for-profit housing stock. “We are shovel ready to build a fifth building and add to our affordable seniors housing stock,” Mayor Rochon confirms. Each project requires provincial funding support, keeping the municipality in constant advocacy mode with Queen’s Park. LEADERSHIP PHILOSOPHY AND FUTURE VISION Mayor Rochon operates by two guiding principles that shape her approach to municipal leadership. Her philosophy encompasses personal conviction and political pragmatism as she leads West Nipissing through infrastructure challenges and growth opportunities. The mayor, who previously served as Northern Development Advisor for the Ontario Ministry of Northern Development and Mines, brings provincial experience to local governance. “If you’re not changing it, you’re choosing it,” she states, explaining her first principle.“If you see things around you that need to get fixed or want to get fixed, you can choose to make changes.You can absolutely choose the status quo if that works for you. But if you are not actively working at changing something, if you’re not actively working at improving it, then you’re choosing to remain the same.” Her second principle drives her advocacy efforts with senior governments. “If you don’t ask, you don’t get. I just keep asking. I try to put myself out there every opportunity I have to speak about both the opportunities within the community and the challenges. I am not shy to ask for the things that we need and to make it known where our priorities are.” The former Weyerhaeuser mill site embodies West Nipissing’s transformation potential. Visible from Highway 17, the fenced property awaits environmental assessment and redevelopment.“It’s right in the middle of downtown, and of course when the mill closed, it was economically devastating for this community,” Mayor Rochon reflects.“I really look forward to the time when it used to be something and it’s something again.” As West Nipissing balances growth with community character, infrastructure renewal with fiscal 69 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 07 WEST NIPISSING, ON
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