The City of Montreal’s director general has been let go and given more than $1 million in severance. Benoit Dagenais worked with the city for over 30 years in various positions before being appointed director general by former mayor Valérie Plante. “It is with great emotion that I leave the City of Montreal, which I love deeply,” said Dagenais. “I feel privileged to have dedicated myself, along with all my colleagues, to serving this unique city and its citizens.” Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada praised Dagenais for his professionalism, rigour and courage. “Mr. Dagenais’ career with the City of Montreal is remarkable,” she said. “He has demonstrated courage in complex situations, while remaining deeply humane. I sincerely thank him for his warm welcome and for the quality of our collaboration since our arrival.” He is being replaced by Longueuil Transit Network CEO Alain Dufort. His severance package is worth roughly three years’ salary. Opposition leader Ericka Alneus said Dagenais was a “rigorous really professional person and the head of the City of Montreal.” “This is someone that has Montreal tattooed on his heart,” she said. “He dedicated decades of his life in service of the city.” Alneus is worried. “Are they really experts in public finance as an administration? Do they care to respect the money of the Montrealers?” she asked. Dagenais will remain in his position until Aug. 17. With reporting from CTV News Montreal journalist Max Harrold.
