Despite a shortened year at the helm, 2024 marked Champlain Mayor Normand Riopel’s second term as Warden of the United Counties of Prescott and Russell (UCPR) and another successful year for progress in the region.
“We are all working at the county level to come together and do what is best for our communities,” said Riopel in an interview with The Vision. “It’s always hard to pinpoint one major success, as each municipality has its own issues. But we are investing more in our roads, and I feel we work well together and don’t waste taxpayers’ money. We provide the essentials, because if we are not looking ahead, something is wrong. We need to build towards the future.”
Riopel was acclaimed as the region’s warden during a special UCPR council meeting in June after then warden Pierre Leroux stepped away from his duties as Mayor of Russell Township and became the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of The Nation Municipality.
Despite some setbacks, Riopel expressed pride in the progress on the Prescott Russell Residence, a long-term care facility for the community.
“Our goal is to take care of people who need care in our community,” said Riopel. “We had some supply issues and challenges that were out of our control, but we are moving forward.”
Riopel emphasized the importance of building future investments to make the region more viable, attractive, and appealing for builders and developers.
“We want to make our communities bright, welcoming, and places where people want to live, work, and visit,” said Riopel. “Maintaining strong relationships with the provincial and federal governments is key to ensuring we keep moving forward.”
A Successful Year as Warden of UCPR
The UCPR hosted its annual Warden’s Banquet at Vankleek Hill Collegiate Institute on Saturday, November 23, celebrating Riopel’s second term as Warden. The event drew a large crowd, including family, friends, political representatives, and community leaders from across the Prescott and Russell region.
Sponsored by the Hawkesbury and District General Hospital, the banquet was both a celebration of Riopel’s contributions and a recognition of the dedication of many individuals shaping the region. The evening also served as a fundraiser for local non-profit and community organizations.
Funds raised through the Warden’s Golf Tournament and Banquet will be distributed at the UCPR Inaugural Meeting on December 18, 2024. Since 2018, the event has raised over $167,000 for the Prescott and Russell community, solidifying its role as a key driver of regional philanthropy.
