Community urges action on housing, income disparities
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
A Sept. 24 presentation in Lennoxville’s community hall by Karine Picard, a research agent at the Observatoire Estrien en Développement des Communautés (OEDC), provided Lennoxville’s community with a revealing look into the borough’s socio-economic conditions. The data, drawn from the most recent census, highlighted positive trends such as population growth and educational achievements but also underscored significant challenges like housing affordability and an aging population. Community organization leaders, present at the event, engaged in an in-depth discussion about the data and raised concerns over vulnerable populations, housing issues, and the need for future development to retain younger families. Data on language use and bilingualism were also discussed.
Population and education: strengths and concerns
One of the most notable highlights of Picard’s presentation was Lennoxville’s population growth, which rose by 10 per cent between 2016 and 2021. The population increased from 5,280 to 5,825, a higher growth rate than both Sherbrooke and the wider Estrie region. This rise was partly attributed to Lennoxville’s role as an educational hub, home to institutions like Bishop’s University and Champlain College. These institutions attract a young, educated population, which has contributed to Lennoxville’s status as one of the most educated communities in the region. Picard noted, “44 per cent of the population aged 25 to 64 in Lennoxville have a university degree, compared to 35 per cent in Sherbrooke and 26 per cent in the Estrie region.”
However, this strength also presents a challenge. Many young people leave Lennoxville after completing their education, leading to concerns about the long-term retention of educated youth. Community leaders emphasized the need to create more opportunities for young families to settle in the area, particularly by improving housing options and public services.
Employment and income: Growth tempered by disparities
Another positive trend highlighted in the presentation was the increase in employment. The proportion of people aged 25 to 64 who were not employed decreased by 4 per cent between 2016 and 2021, with Lennoxville seeing a greater reduction in unemployment compared to Sherbrooke and the Estrie region. However, there remains a significant gender disparity in employment, with 25 per cent of women in Lennoxville unemployed compared to only 17 per cent of men.
Income levels in Lennoxville also showed a mix of improvement and stagnation. The total median after-tax household income rose to $53,200 in 2021, which is similar to Sherbrooke but still lower than the regional median of $58,000. The gender disparity was also reflected in income levels, with men earning a median of $34,800, while women earned $29,800.
These income figures are heavily influenced by the pandemic, with government benefits temporarily boosting household earnings in 2020. Picard emphasized that these figures should be interpreted cautiously, stating, “The 2021 census used data from 2020, a year when many households were receiving COVID-related government support, which skewed the income figures upwards.”
