The commune of Saint-Pierre-Eynac, in France’s Haute-Loire department, is preparing for municipal elections on . A new collective, “Saint-Pierre Eynac en avant!” led by Jean-Luc Laschamp, has emerged as a significant contender, building its platform on direct community input and a commitment to addressing the needs of residents of all ages. The campaign’s foundation was laid in , with a series of “Friday meetings” held throughout the commune, designed to solicit feedback and shape proposals based on the desires of the populace.
A core principle of “Saint-Pierre Eynac en avant!” is improved communication, and transparency. The collective pledges to avoid large-scale projects without thorough public consultation and clear financial details. This emphasis on inclusivity reflects a desire to move beyond traditional top-down approaches to local governance and foster a stronger sense of ownership among residents.
Prioritizing Youth and Education
The well-being of the community’s youth is a central focus for the collective. Plans are underway to continue ongoing improvements at the local school, including enhancements to the multi-purpose hall (MAM), construction of a covered walkway, installation of blackout curtains, and improvements to the schoolyard with increased vegetation and expanded space. These physical improvements aim to create a more conducive learning environment for students.
Beyond infrastructure, the collective intends to address concerns raised by parents regarding school lunch options, after-school tutoring, and the pursuit of “health-promoting school” accreditation. Recognizing the importance of a safe and supportive environment, they also plan to improve safety around the school and provide support for cultural and professional exploration for older students. This holistic approach to education acknowledges the multifaceted needs of students and aims to prepare them for future success.
To further empower young residents, “Saint-Pierre Eynac en avant!” proposes establishing a youth municipal council. This initiative would provide a direct avenue for young voices to be heard in local governance, fostering civic engagement and a sense of responsibility among the next generation.
Supporting Seniors and Enhancing Quality of Life
The collective also recognizes the importance of supporting the community’s senior residents. A key proposal is to test a seasonal shuttle service to improve mobility for those who may have difficulty with transportation. This initiative aims to enhance independence and allow seniors to remain active and engaged in the community.
“Saint-Pierre Eynac en avant!” plans to develop intergenerational connections, support local cultural and sporting associations, create an interpretive trail, offer computer courses, establish a library, and work on preserving local history. A long-term goal is the potential creation of a dedicated “house of life” for seniors, providing a supportive and enriching environment for older adults.
Preserving the Character of Saint-Pierre-Eynac
The collective has expressed strong opposition to the construction of a housing development behind the local cemetery, stating a commitment to preserving the aesthetic character of the village. They emphasize the importance of responsible development that respects the natural environment and the unique identity of Saint-Pierre-Eynac. This stance underscores a broader commitment to protecting the area’s resources – water, land, and overall quality of life.
The Team Behind “Saint-Pierre Eynac en avant!”
The collective’s list of candidates reflects a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences. Jean-Luc Laschamp, the head of the list, is a teacher with prior experience as a mayor, having served as the mayor of Vandélicourt, a village of 300 inhabitants, from to . He returned to Haute-Loire in after living in Picardy for several years. He emphasizes a collaborative approach, stating he met with the current mayor, Raymond Abrial, in , and offered him a place on their list.
The list includes Maxime Baleydier, an IT professional. Philibert Blanc, a retired industrial worker; Arnaud Bouchet, a plumber; Guillaume Canivet, a business manager; Danièle Chapuis, a retired railway worker; Hervé Cuoq, a mountain guide and bus/truck driver; Yolande Dumas-Combe, an English teacher; Jean Garnier, a farmer; Estelle Gasquet, a billing manager; Tiphaine Gauthier, an account manager; Marie Legrand, a mental health professional; Sami Rhaiem, a nurse; Nathalie Surel, a commercial secretary; Delphine Villesèche, a training specialist; and Françoise Virieux, a research engineer.
Residents interested in learning more about “Saint-Pierre Eynac en avant!” can contact the collective at contact@saintpierreeynac.com or visit their website at https://www.saintpierreeynac.com/.
The outcome of the election remains to be seen, but “Saint-Pierre Eynac en avant!” presents a clear alternative vision for the future of the commune, one rooted in community engagement and a commitment to addressing the needs of all residents.
