The Mayor of Russell and Warden of the United Counties of Prescott and Russell (UCPR) officially resigned and was appointed as Chief Administrative Officer of The Nation municipality, following a special closed session council meeting on Tuesday, April 2.
In a press release following The Nation’s council decision Tuesday night, the municipality of Russell released a statement regarding the Mayor’s resignation, indicating that Leroux’s focus will be “ensuring a smooth handover” and “a seamless transition.”
“I have complete confidence that our administration and Council will come together,” stated Richard Godin, chief administrative officer of Russell. “On behalf of the Township, I extend our sincere congratulations to Mayor Leroux on his new appointment at The Nation Municipality.”
Leroux has served as mayor of Russell since 2014 and was first elected councillor in 2010. During that time he has served on the board of the Eastern Ontario Warden’s Caucus and South Nation Conservation.
Before running for elected office, Leroux owned and operated a convenience store in Casselman, Pierre & Fils Dépanneur/Vidéo.
In describing his new CAO’s qualifications, The Nation Mayor Francis Brière said Leroux is “a very intelligent man, with experience”, and “he’s a man who understands both sides of the table.»
“Not many people have the qualifications he has at the moment,” said Brière, adding as Leroux has worked closely with CAOs as mayor, he understands the administrative postion “through osmosis”.
Leroux refused to answer questions regarding his appointment ahead of The Reflet’s deadline.
Leroux’s last day as Mayor of Russell will be April 18.
With files from Antoine Messier and Gabrielle Vinette.
