For over four decades, Gilles Brisebois, the visionary behind LA Group, has dedicated his life to not only building homes but creating communities in North Grenville. His commitment to the people and the places he serves goes far beyond the bricks and mortar of construction—his true focus is on fostering a better life for everyone in the communities he helps create.

Raised on a farm, Gilles was originally drawn to the area when he came to study agriculture, but instead of cultivating crops, he found his passion in growing communities. Gilles has never lost touch with his agricultural roots. In fact, many of the maple trees scattered across North Grenville were planted by him decades ago when he was still at the college. These trees have given back to the community, helping in maple syrup production—a symbol of how Gilles has always sought to give back in meaningful ways.

Gilles is deeply committed to the communities he builds. A perfect example of this is the first neighborhood he developed, where he named three streets after his own daughters. This personal touch reflects his belief that creating homes isn’t just about business—it’s about building places where people feel truly connected to their surroundings and neighbors.

But Gilles’ focus has never been on just constructing houses. He has always been driven by a desire to build affordable and livable communities. His passion is to ensure that young families have the opportunity to own a home and that older residents can retire in comfort. He could have easily pursued larger, more luxurious projects, but his Orleans roots and sense of responsibility to the people around him have kept him focused on maintaining the spirit of his upbringing.

Years ago, when high home insurance costs were preventing many residents from affording homes, Gilles took matters into his own hands. He worked closely with the fire chief and other officials to create a rural area reservoir, which allowed fire trucks better access to water and, as a result, brought insurance rates down to more affordable levels. This type of action is typical of Gilles—always working to remove barriers for the betterment of his community.

Beyond building homes, Gilles’ dedication to North Grenville extends to numerous community initiatives. For years, he has been a significant supporter of the Kemptville District Hospital, tirelessly fundraising and donating to ensure that residents have access to top-tier healthcare. His involvement doesn’t stop there. He has served on the board of the local youth center, where he helped the organization save money by encouraging them to purchase their building. He also contributed to the North Grenville Heritage Advisory Committee, helping preserve the area’s rich history.

Gilles’ volunteer work includes cooking for over 1,000 people at the annual Mason’s Fish Fry, where he jokes that he can taste the grease for weeks afterward. His energy and commitment seem boundless. Through his efforts, he has helped to create a vibrant and diverse community in North Grenville that caters to people from all walks of life.

His influence can be seen across the town, from the houses he has built to the roads people drive on. Gilles played a crucial role in the widening of Highway 416, an essential artery that has brought businesses and residents to the area. Without it, North Grenville wouldn’t have the infrastructure needed to grow into the bustling community it is today.

Gilles also fought hard to prevent the closure of Kemptville Campus when the University of Guelph made the shocking decision to shut it down. The campus had been instrumental in his own life, and he recognized the value it had for future generations. His lobbying efforts are just one of the many ways he has demonstrated his dedication to the long-term success of North Grenville.

Even now, his projects continue to serve the people of the town. Whether it’s building homes, ensuring access to quality healthcare, or creating spaces where families can come together—like the walking path to the soccer fields he plans to donate—Gilles’ contributions always have one goal: to make North Grenville a better place to live.

In the end, Gilles Brisebois has built more than just houses in North Grenville. He has built a legacy of community, care, and commitment that will endure for generations. From his decades of construction work to his tireless volunteerism, Gilles embodies what it means to truly invest in the future of a community.