There’s been a hiccup in the vote for renaming Asbestos, Quebec. It appears the citizens are not thrilled with their choices.
The mayor announced several days ago that residents would be able to vote to rename the town to:
- Jeffrey, after the Jeffrey Mine that used to operate there
- Apalone, a turtle species
- Phénix, a mythical regenerating bird
- Trois-Lacs, a neighbourhood of Asbestos
The four names were narrowed down from 1,000 suggestions.
Founded in the late 19th century around the Jeffrey mine, the town helped make Canada one of the world’s leading asbestos exporters. For centuries, the fibrous mineral was used in building materials such as ceiling tiles and cement, but it’s now banned in many jurisdictions across the globe.
Now, the town’s name is associated with cancer.
City council has decided to take more time to explain the re-naming process and possibly expand the list of options before voting begins.
The town still plans to hold a vote on the new name, where everyone living in Asbestos ages 14 and over can take part, next month.
