After 34 years of dedicated service to the Township of Champlain, Jacques Gauthier, Chief Building Official (CBO), has announced his retirement. Jacques has been an integral part of our township’s development, overseeing numerous projects and ensuring that residents, contractors, and entrepreneurs received the guidance and support they needed.
Jacques’ career in construction began early, working for construction companies during his high school summers. His passion for the field led him to college, where he studied for three years to become an architectural technologist. After graduating, Jacques worked in architectural drawing for companies in Ottawa and Montreal. However, the city life wasn't for him, and he pursued a career in general construction in our region, first with Mr. Jean-Guy Ravary, where he managed a team of up to 20 employees over 10 years, and later on his own.
In December 1990, Jacques joined the Township of Champlain as Chief Building Official, Building Inspector, By-law Officer and Animal Control Officer. His dedication and commitment to ensuring projects ran smoothly laid the foundation for the growth of his department. In 1998, In 1998, with the amalgamation of the four municipalities and the creation of the Township of Champlain, Jacques welcomed his first employee, marking the beginning of a team. Now, in 2024, Jacques leads a team of four, including an administrative assistant, two building inspectors, and a by-law officer.
Throughout his career, Jacques has been passionate about sharing his knowledge and helping contractors and residents navigate complex regulations. His hands-on approach ensured that inspections and permits were completed promptly, even working extra hard during the fall and summer months to keep projects on track. Jacques' commitment to the township has been unwavering, and in his own words, "In 34 years of service, I've never taken more than a week of vacation in a row because I've always wanted to be available for residents and contractors."
Jacques shared his thoughts on his long career: "I've always enjoyed passing on my experience to contractors, residents, and entrepreneurs. My favorite part of my job has always been to provide advice and help them find solutions to their problems. It's just a shame that with legal liability and lawsuits today, I have less ability to make that happen. I've always made sure that they received their permits on time, and I'd double my efforts in the fall to make sure that their inspections were done before the winter to avoid delays, or in the summer to keep things moving quickly for everyone."
The Township’s Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Kevin Tessier, expressed deep gratitude for Jacques’ service:
"Jacques has been a pillar of our team. His dedication to the community and his attention to detail have shaped the way our township manages growth and development. We’re truly grateful for his tireless work over the past 34 years, and his leadership has set a standard that will be difficult to match."
Mayor Normand Riopel also shared his appreciation for Jacques’ contribution:
"Jacques' commitment to Champlain Township has been extraordinary. His hands-on approach, combined with his deep understanding of the building industry, has helped build not only structures but trust within our community. On behalf of the township, we wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement, knowing that his legacy will live on in the work he has done for us."
Jacques' contributions will leave a lasting impact on the township. We are grateful for his years of hard work, dedication, and service to our community. Please join us in congratulating Jacques Gauthier on his well-deserved retirement and in wishing him all the best for the future.
As we bid farewell to Jacques, the Township of Champlain is now seeking a dynamic and motivated individual to fill the full-time position of Director of Building and By-Law Department/Chief Building Official (CBO). For more information on the position or to apply, please visit www.champlain.ca/job.
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