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Diet and Sugary Drinks Raise Liver Disease Risk

Henry
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Diet and Sugary Drinks Raise Liver Disease Risk

Diet and Sugary Drinks Linked to Liver Disease

New research finds that drinking just one can of diet soda a day may increase the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by up to 60%, while sugary beverages raise the risk by 50%. NAFLD, also known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), occurs when fat builds up in the liver of people who consume little to no alcohol. Over time, it can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer, making it a leading cause of liver-related illness worldwide.

The study was presented at the United European Gastroenterology Week in Berlin and emphasizes the surprising impact of both diet and sugar-sweetened beverages on liver health.

How the Study Was Conducted

Researchers analyzed data from nearly 124,000 participants in the UK Biobank, all without liver disease at the start of the study. Beverage consumption was tracked through 24-hour dietary questionnaires over a 10-year period. The findings revealed that both diet and sugary drinks were strongly linked to increased MASLD risk, while substituting water for either type of drink reduced risk by 13–15%.

Interestingly, switching from sugary drinks to diet drinks—or vice versa—did not lower the risk, highlighting that water remains the healthiest default beverage.

Understanding the Health Risks

Sugary drinks affect the liver by causing rapid spikes in blood glucose and insulin, promoting weight gain and fat accumulation in the liver. Diet drinks, though low in calories, may still harm liver health by altering the gut microbiome, increasing cravings for sweet foods, interfering with satiety, and stimulating insulin secretion.

“Water hydrates the body without impacting metabolism, supports satiety, and helps protect the liver,” said lead study author Lihe Liu of Soochow University in China.

Expert Perspectives

Dr. Sajid Jalil, a gastroenterology expert at Stanford University, praised the study’s design. “This prospective research, with a large sample size and long follow-up, provides strong evidence that both regular and diet soft drinks can harm the liver over time. Choosing water or unsweetened beverages offers clear protective benefits,” he said.

Liu emphasized that these findings challenge the common perception that diet drinks are harmless and highlight the need to reconsider their role in daily diets, particularly as MASLD becomes a global health concern.

Practical Takeaways

  • Drinking one can of diet soda per day may increase liver disease risk by 60%.

  • Sugary drinks raise NAFLD risk by 50%.

  • Substituting water for sweetened beverages reduces risk by 13–15%.

  • Switching between diet and sugary drinks does not reduce risk.

  • Water remains the safest, most effective beverage for liver health.

As MASLD rates continue to rise globally, experts recommend prioritizing water and unsweetened beverages over both sugary and diet drinks for long-term liver health.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for the latest health research and nutrition updates.

Canada Shifts Federal Budget to Fall for Transparency

Henry
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0
Canada Shifts Federal Budget to Fall for Transparency

Canada Moves Federal Budget to Fall

In a break from tradition, Canada’s federal budget will now be released in the fall instead of the spring, starting with Budget 2025-26. Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne says this shift provides more transparency and clarity on how taxpayer dollars are spent, while the fall fiscal update will now be tabled in the spring.

The move comes after the Parliamentary Budget Officer projected a sharp deficit increase to $68.5 billion, highlighting the need for clearer financial planning. This is Canada’s first full budget since April 2024 under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Champagne will deliver the new budget on November 4.

New Budget Cycle Offers Predictability

Previously, the federal government released budgets in the spring, followed by a fall economic statement. Champagne told reporters that the new schedule will provide “more clarity for parliamentarians” and predictability for provinces and territories. By aligning the budget cycle with the fiscal year, the government aims to enhance planning and decision-making at multiple levels of government.

“This approach allows Canadians and decision-makers to see day-to-day spending versus capital investments,” Champagne said. “It gives people more transparency about operational costs and the investments we’re making for the future.”

Capital Budgeting Framework Separates Spending

The government’s new Capital Budgeting Framework will distinguish day-to-day operational spending from long-term capital investment. Operational spending includes employee salaries, health and social transfers, and other recurring government costs. Capital spending covers major projects like ports, pipelines, housing, and clean energy infrastructure.

Champagne emphasized that this framework allows Parliament to focus on prioritizing investments that deliver long-term benefits while keeping operational costs in check. “This structure helps us spend less on operations and invest more in projects that grow the economy,” he said.

Deficit Concerns and Spending Goals

The government plans to balance the operational budget within three years but has not provided specifics on achieving this goal. Officials said overall spending could be reduced by up to 15% by 2028. Meanwhile, Canada faces revenue losses from counter-tariffs on U.S. steel and aluminum products, after rolling back most retaliatory measures.

Former Parliamentary Budget Officer Kevin Page praised the shift, calling it “an improvement on the financial cycle of the Government of Canada.” He noted that tabling the budget in the fall aligns with OECD best practices and helps provinces, territories, and municipalities better plan their own budgets.

Political Debate Over the New Framework

During a finance committee hearing, Conservative MPs pressed Champagne on when the full budget will be balanced. Calgary Crowfoot MP Pat Kelly and Conservative finance critic Jasraj Hallan expressed concerns that the new accounting framework could obscure the deficit.

Champagne defended the changes, saying the government will continue to calculate the deficit and debt according to standard accounting principles. “Debt is still debt,” Hallan argued, “but the framework does provide clearer insight into investments versus operational spending.”

Looking Ahead

The new fall budget cycle will allow federal investments in major projects to begin in winter, enabling a smoother spring start. The framework also aims to guide decisions on projects that strengthen Canada’s economy, attract private investment, and improve housing, clean energy, and infrastructure development.

Going forward, Canadians can expect clearer distinctions between operational costs and capital investments, giving taxpayers more transparency and parliamentarians better tools for fiscal oversight.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for updates on Budget 2025-26 and Canada’s evolving fiscal strategy.

Starbucks Hello Kitty Holiday Collection Launches Nov 6

Henry
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0
Starbucks Hello Kitty Holiday Collection Launches Nov 6

Starbucks and Hello Kitty Unite for Holiday Cheer

Starbucks and Hello Kitty are bringing joy to the holiday season with a new merchandise collection, blending cuteness and coffee culture. The Starbucks Hello Kitty collection features plush toys, mugs, tumblers, and gift items that highlight friendship, joy, and nostalgia. Launching in U.S. and Canadian coffeehouses on November 6, fans can embrace the perfect holiday gift experience while celebrating the iconic Hello Kitty brand and Starbucks’ festive spirit.

Hello Kitty: The Icon of Cuteness and Connection

Since her creation in 1974 by Sanrio, Hello Kitty has become a global cultural phenomenon, representing the Japanese concept of kawaii—heartfelt cuteness. Known for her signature red bow and friendly personality, Hello Kitty appears on everything from fashion to collectibles. “Her simple design, positive message, and timeless appeal invite people everywhere to celebrate friendship and kindness,” says Jill Koch, SVP of Brand Management at Sanrio.

Starbucks x Hello Kitty: A Natural Collaboration

For Starbucks, the partnership emphasizes nostalgia and human connection. Kap Pitarys, Director of U.S. Merchandise, notes that both brands were born in the 1970s, sharing a history of bringing joy and community together. The collaboration aims to create a festive collection that feels playful, heartwarming, and perfect for gifting.

Collection Highlights: Gifts That Spark Joy

The exclusive Starbucks Hello Kitty collection includes:

  • Boxed Plush – Hello Kitty wears a Starbucks green apron and comes with Tiny Chum, perfect for gifting. $50.95

  • Ceramic Mug – A 16-ounce boxed mug with a red silicone bow for a coffee experience that’s adorably cute. $47.95

  • Stainless Steel Cold Cup – Holds a venti iced holiday drink with extra room for whipped cream. $47.95

  • Water Bottle – A 20-ounce stainless steel bottle featuring Hello Kitty and a heartwarming “Together in Fun Forever” design. $43.95

  • Cold Cup – A 24-ounce acrylic cup decorated with Hello Kitty, Tiny Chum, coffee beans, and Starbucks mugs. $36.95

  • Stainless Steel Tumbler – A 12-ounce tumbler with Hello Kitty and Tiny Chum, ideal for both hot and cold drinks. $47.95

  • Gift Cards – Includes standard, digital, and a special Hello Kitty-shaped card with a minimum load of $10.

A Celebration of Friendship and Festivity

Starbucks and Hello Kitty together make the holiday season more joyful and playful. The collection blends fandom, nostalgia, and heartfelt charm, offering gifts that feel personal and fun for both friends and family. Fans are encouraged to visit participating stores starting November 6, while supplies last.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for updates on limited editions, new arrivals, and more adorable holiday collaborations.

Trump Greenlights Alaska Mining Road, Boosts U.S. Mineral Stake

Henry
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0
Trump Greenlights Alaska Mining Road, Boosts U.S. Mineral Stake

Trump Approves Alaska Mining Road, Secures Mineral Access

U.S. President Donald Trump has officially approved the long-debated Alaska mining road, opening access to copper and cobalt reserves critical for energy and technology growth. The 211-mile Ambler Road, blocked under the Biden administration, now moves forward with government backing. Trump emphasized that the project “should’ve been long operating and making billions for our country,” underscoring the economic and strategic benefits.

Government Investment Signals Strong Commitment

In a related development, the U.S. government is taking a 10% equity stake in Trilogy Metals, the Canadian company developing the Ambler site. Trilogy Metals CEO Tony Giardini described the investment as a “strong endorsement” of the project’s importance to northwestern Alaska. While regulatory approvals are still required, the move highlights a broader U.S. strategy to secure domestic access to critical minerals.

Additionally, the government recently invested in Lithium Americas, which operates one of the largest lithium mines in Nevada. The Department of Energy will hold a 5% stake in both Lithium Americas and the Thacker Pass lithium project, a partnership with General Motors. These actions reflect a growing focus on minerals essential for technology, renewable energy, and national competitiveness.

Strategic Importance of Copper and Cobalt

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stressed that the Ambler Road approval will unlock access to copper, cobalt, and other key minerals necessary to maintain the U.S. edge in AI, electronics, and clean energy. Supporters, including Alaska’s congressional delegation, note that the nearby copper deposit is valued at over $7 billion. Copper plays a vital role in car manufacturing, electronics, and renewable energy technologies, including wind turbines.

Tribal Concerns and Environmental Risks

Despite these advantages, opposition remains strong. A coalition of 40 federally recognized tribes warns that the road could threaten subsistence hunting and fishing. The lands include critical habitats for salmon and caribou, and tribes stress that development could disrupt their way of life and local ecosystems.

Next Steps and Outlook

With Trump’s approval and the government’s investment in Trilogy Metals, construction and development could soon begin, pending regulatory clearance. The decision marks a renewed push for U.S. mineral independence and economic growth in Alaska’s resource-rich regions.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for ongoing updates on the Ambler Road project and its impact on energy, technology, and tribal communities.

October Harvest Moon: Supermoon Guide & Skywatch Tips

Henry
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0
October Harvest Moon: Supermoon Guide & Skywatch Tips

A Dazzling Start to the Supermoon Season

The October harvest supermoon is lighting up the sky tonight, kicking off an exciting season for skywatchers and lunar enthusiasts. This first supermoon of the year will reach its fullest glow around 11:48 p.m. ET on Monday, according to EarthSky. If clouds block your view, don’t worry—the moon will still appear nearly full on Tuesday night.

NASA’s Noah Petro, project scientist for the Artemis III mission, shared his enthusiasm: “The joy of a full moon is that even if you miss it one night, you can still enjoy it the next.”

The Meaning Behind the Harvest Moon

The term harvest moon isn’t just poetic—it’s steeped in tradition. It refers to the full moon closest to the autumnal equinox, signaling the start of fall. Historically, this bright moon guided farmers as they gathered crops late into the night, its silvery light serving as nature’s lantern.

According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, this year’s harvest moon continues that age-old tradition of marking both change and abundance.

Why This Supermoon Feels Special

This lunar event is the first of three consecutive supermoons that will brighten the year’s final months. A supermoon occurs when the moon reaches its closest point to Earth—called perigee—appearing slightly larger and brighter than usual.

“It’s a subtle difference, but those who watch the moon often will notice,” Petro said. “Try observing it over a few days or even months. You’ll start to see how the moon shifts and shines differently each time.”

NASA’s Lunar Dreams Take Shape

Interestingly, this glowing spectacle comes just weeks after NASA announced its newest astronaut class—some of whom could travel to the moon or even Mars in the near future. The excitement builds as the Artemis II mission, featuring four seasoned astronauts, prepares to circle the moon early next year.

“What makes this full moon so meaningful,” Petro added, “is knowing that soon we’ll not only gaze at the moon but watch humans return to it.”

Mark Your Calendar for More Celestial Magic

If tonight’s moon leaves you wanting more, there’s plenty to look forward to. According to the Farmers’ Almanac, the next two supermoons will shine on:

  • November 5: Beaver Moon

  • December 4: Cold Moon

But the celestial show doesn’t stop there. Several meteor showers will soon streak across the sky, offering even more reason to look up:

  • Draconids: October 8–9

  • Orionids: October 20–21

  • Southern Taurids: November 4–5

  • Northern Taurids: November 11–12

  • Leonids: November 16–17

  • Geminids: December 13–14

  • Ursids: December 21–22

Each event promises another chance to reconnect with the cosmos and appreciate the ever-changing night sky.

As October’s harvest supermoon rises, it reminds us that wonder is never far away—just look up.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for more cosmic updates and stargazing highlights.

OpenAI’s $1 Trillion AI Deals Shake Tech Industry

Henry
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0
OpenAI’s $1 Trillion AI Deals Shake Tech Industry

OpenAI’s $1 Trillion AI Power Play

OpenAI has signed an astonishing $1 trillion in AI computing deals, joining forces with Nvidia, AMD, and Oracle in a move that could redefine artificial intelligence infrastructure. These massive partnerships aim to secure the computing power needed to run ChatGPT and other AI models—yet they also raise big questions about funding and long-term sustainability.

OpenAI’s founder, Sam Altman, is betting big on the future of AI, even as analysts question whether the company can afford such monumental commitments.

Deals That Redefine Computing Power

The deals promise over 20 gigawatts of computing capacity—roughly equal to 20 nuclear reactors. To put that in perspective, each gigawatt costs nearly $50 billion to deploy, making OpenAI’s total investment around $1 trillion.

Monday’s deal with AMD follows earlier pacts with Nvidia, Oracle, and CoreWeave. Together, these partnerships ensure OpenAI’s access to the chips and servers needed to power the next generation of artificial intelligence.

Still, the financial math is daunting. Analysts estimate OpenAI could lose nearly $10 billion this year as it ramps up infrastructure and chip spending.

Why Tech Giants Are Joining the Race

Despite the risk, partners are eager to join OpenAI’s ecosystem. Nvidia alone plans to invest $100 billion in OpenAI over the next decade. AMD, meanwhile, is offering OpenAI warrants for up to 10% ownership—a deal that could give OpenAI access to billions in future capital.

Oracle’s market value soared after its $300 billion deal was announced. AMD’s stock also jumped 24%, boosting its market capitalization by $63 billion. These gains reflect how deeply the AI boom is fueling investor enthusiasm.

However, as the excitement grows, some experts worry about an AI bubble—one sustained more by hype than profitability.

The High-Stakes Gamble Behind the Scenes

OpenAI has raised $47 billion in venture funding and borrowed $4 billion in bank debt, yet these commitments barely cover its expanding infrastructure costs. The company is now preparing to raise tens of billions more in debt to fund future data centers.

While OpenAI is valued at $500 billion, critics argue that its financial model is risky. Gil Luria, an analyst at DA Davidson, said the company’s commitments reflect Silicon Valley’s “fake it until you make it” mindset—where optimism often outpaces cash flow.

Still, Altman remains calm. He said profitability is “not in my top 10 concerns,” emphasizing growth and innovation over short-term returns.

Nvidia and AMD: Powering the AI Revolution

OpenAI’s deals with Nvidia and AMD could cost $800 billion combined. But the chipmakers’ investments and flexible financing could offset some costs. Nvidia, which now boasts a market cap above $4 trillion, has also invested heavily in OpenAI’s partners, creating a circular ecosystem of growth and dependency.

CoreWeave, for instance, raised $12 billion in debt backed by Nvidia chips. This cycle of funding and reinvestment helps sustain the AI boom but also fuels fears of overextension.

The Big Question: Can OpenAI Sustain It?

OpenAI expects to multiply its revenue beyond $12 billion by expanding its product lineup and doubling ChatGPT’s paid user base. But even loyal investors admit the road to profitability is uncertain.

AI spending is now a key driver of U.S. economic growth, but if usage slows or demand plateaus, the momentum could vanish. One Silicon Valley investor warned that OpenAI’s cost structure is “far more intense than Google or Microsoft ever faced.”

Yet Altman’s bold vision suggests OpenAI is playing the long game. “Someday we’ll be profitable,” he said, “but right now, we’re focused on creating value that lasts.”

The Future of AI Infrastructure

Whether OpenAI’s trillion-dollar bet pays off or not, its ambition is reshaping the entire technology landscape. These deals are more than financial commitments—they’re a signal that AI is becoming the world’s next great industrial revolution.

For now, OpenAI and its partners are racing full throttle into an uncertain but transformative future.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for the latest on OpenAI’s AI expansion and the global tech power race.

Ford vows to pull Crown Royal from LCBO shelves if Diageo shuts Ontario plant

Sarah
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0
Ford vows to pull Crown Royal from LCBO shelves if Diageo shuts Ontario plant

Ontario Premier Doug Ford says he will remove Crown Royal whisky from provincial liquor store shelves if Diageo Canada follows through with plans to close its nearly 100-year-old plant in Amherstburg.

Speaking at a union rally in Brampton, Ford called the decision to shutter the facility “disgraceful” and vowed to retaliate if the U.K.-based company proceeds. “When the last worker walks out that door, those bottles are coming off LCBO shelves,” Ford told cheering supporters.

The closure would eliminate roughly 200 jobs, dealing a major blow to Amherstburg — where Diageo is the largest employer. The company says the move is part of a supply-chain restructuring to shift bottling closer to U.S. consumers, but the union argues it’s purely a cost-cutting measure.

Union leaders are demanding Ford take immediate action, warning that waiting until the plant closes in February would lessen the impact. They insist pulling Diageo’s products now could pressure the company to reconsider its decision.

Ford’s office says “all options remain on the table,” while Diageo has not confirmed whether it will reverse course.

Trump faces court battles over deploying troops to Portland and Chicago

Sarah
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0
Trump faces court battles over deploying troops to Portland and Chicago

U.S. President Donald Trump is facing a growing legal backlash after ordering National Guard troops into Portland, Oregon and Chicago, Illinois, moves that governors and courts say exceed his authority.

Federal judges in Oregon have temporarily blocked troop deployment, ruling that the protests there do not meet the constitutional threshold for military intervention. Similar lawsuits are now underway in Illinois, where Governor J.B. Pritzker called the deployment “outrageous and un-American.”

Trump has defended his decision by claiming both cities are “war zones” overrun by “domestic terrorists.” Local leaders, however, say demonstrations have been largely peaceful and that the administration’s actions are politically motivated.

Civil rights groups have accused federal agents of escalating violence near immigration facilities and using chemical agents on civilians. The White House says it will appeal the Oregon ruling, signaling that the battle over federal authority in U.S. cities is far from over.

Poilievre challenges Carney before White House meeting with Trump

Sarah
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Poilievre challenges Carney before White House meeting with Trump

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has delivered a sharp warning to Prime Minister Mark Carney, urging him to bring back results — not “photo ops” — from his upcoming meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.

In a letter shared with CBC News, Poilievre accused Carney of failing to secure tariff relief for Canadian industries, saying Canada has been “losing ground” in trade talks. He called on the prime minister to push for the removal of tariffs on lumber, steel, aluminum, and autos, and to challenge “Buy American” rules that disadvantage Canadian workers.

Carney and his cabinet are set to meet Trump in Washington this week for discussions on trade, security, and North American economic cooperation.

Government insiders remain cautiously optimistic that Canada could win partial steel tariff relief, while experts say the meeting signals both sides are seeking stability after months of escalating trade tensions.

Toyota recalls over 32,000 vehicles in Canada due to rearview camera defect

Sarah
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0
Toyota recalls over 32,000 vehicles in Canada due to rearview camera defect

Toyota is recalling 32,733 vehicles in Canada after federal safety regulators found a defect that could cause rearview cameras to fail, increasing the risk of collisions.

According to Transport Canada, the issue affects Sequoia models from 2023 to 2025 and Tundra models — including hybrids — from 2022 to 2025, all equipped with a 14-inch multimedia display.

Officials say a software malfunction may cause the backup camera image to appear distorted or not display at all when reversing, a direct violation of Canadian safety requirements. “A rearview image that doesn’t display correctly could reduce a driver’s ability to see behind the vehicle,” the notice said.

Toyota will notify affected owners in writing and provide a free software update at dealerships. Drivers can also check Toyota’s online recall database using their VIN to confirm if their vehicle is impacted.

Alberta teachers strike for first time in history over pay and classroom conditions

Sarah
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0
Alberta teachers strike for first time in history over pay and classroom conditions

For the first time in Alberta’s history, more than 51,000 teachers have walked off the job, shutting down classrooms across the province.

The Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) says the strike is not about abandoning students but about saving public education from what it calls years of chronic underfunding and overcrowded classrooms.

“Our classrooms, hallways and school fields are empty, and not because we’ve given up on public education,” ATA president Jason Schilling said Monday. “It’s because we care too much about it to stand by and watch it crumble.”

More than 750,000 students are affected across Alberta’s public, Catholic and francophone schools. The provincial government has urged teachers to return to the bargaining table but confirmed it will not recall the legislature early to pass back-to-work legislation.

At the heart of the dispute are classroom conditions and teacher pay.
Educators say wages have not kept up with inflation and that the government’s plan to hire 3,000 new teachers over three years won’t solve the staffing crisis. Many say at least 5,000 teachers are needed to meet class size recommendations.

Teachers have twice rejected offers from the government, including one that promised a 12% pay increase over four years and a $405 million class size fund. Nearly 90% voted against the deal, saying it failed to address the real conditions inside Alberta classrooms.

Meanwhile, Premier Danielle Smith’s government is offering $30 a day to parents of students under 12 who are missing classes and has lifted limits on distance education credits to help families cope during the strike.

On Sunday, thousands of educators and supporters flooded the Alberta legislature and city streets, carrying signs demanding “respect for education” and “fund our future.”

The ATA says informal talks are continuing but admits there’s no clear timeline for when classrooms will reopen.
Until then, Alberta’s teachers say they’ll stay out — not out of anger, but out of love for their students and their schools.

Montreal Housing Crunch Sparks Local Development Battles

James
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0
Montreal Housing Crunch Sparks Local Development Battles

Montreal faces a housing shortage as residents resist new developments, challenging leaders to balance growth, green space, and transit-oriented planning.

Forests and Fields Under Pressure

Montreal’s housing shortage is sparking debates across the city and its suburbs over where new construction should take place. From protected forests in the West Island to green spaces on Nun’s Island, proposals for housing projects are facing strong local opposition. Residents are voicing concerns about environmental impact, community character, and the preservation of public spaces.

Pointe-Claire’s Controversial Forest Plan

In Pointe-Claire, a 16-hectare patch of forest near Fairview Mall has become a flashpoint ahead of the municipal election. Sandra Maki, spokesperson for Save Fairview Forest, called for the area to remain fully protected, urging developers to consider building on already paved or underutilized sites instead. The upcoming light-rail station nearby further complicates decisions, highlighting the tension between sustainable urban growth and ecological preservation.

Democracy, Development, and Trade-Offs

Experts emphasize that public debate is central to city planning but comes with trade-offs. Kevin Manaugh, a McGill geography professor, said municipalities face competing demands: housing, green space, commercial zones, and waterfront preservation. In some cases, small groups of residents have blocked projects requiring zoning changes through referendums, though Quebec law now allows governments to override these decisions in urgent housing cases.

High-Rises Stir Westmount Debate

Last month, Westmount city council approved a plan for four 20-storey towers, sparking public backlash over heritage preservation and unit size. Architect and councillor Conrad Peart voted in favour, citing the site’s proximity to public transit and existing high-rises, while acknowledging the plan could be adjusted by future councils. Advocates stress the urgent need for housing density to meet Montreal’s growing demand.

South Shore’s Woodland Controversy

On Montreal’s South Shore, the community of Châteauguay is contesting development plans along Highway 30, fearing urban sprawl and the loss of one of the last forested areas. Chantale Payant, from Boisés et écologie Châteauguay, stressed the importance of building a sustainable, transit-oriented community that balances affordable housing with environmental stewardship.

Growing Housing Needs and Transit Opportunities

After a slowdown in 2023 and 2024, housing starts in the Montreal region rose in the first half of 2025, largely due to new rental units, according to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. Experts advocate for multi-unit, family-friendly buildings near transit hubs to address demand. Manaugh noted that increasing density around REM stations is key to attracting residents who rely on public transportation.

Searching for a Win-Win

In Pointe-Claire, local advocates see a path forward. Maki believes developers can protect natural areas while creating housing on already-paved sites, preserving quality of life for current residents and future generations. As the municipal elections approach, balancing housing expansion, environmental protection, and community input remains the region’s most pressing challenge.

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