Mike Tarnowski has been officially sworn in as Mayor of the Township of Russell for the remainder of the 2022-2026 term ending on November 14, 2026, leaving his seat as Councillor vacant.
During the new mayor’s acceptance speech, he expressed his “heartfelt gratitude” to the outgoing Mayor, Pierre Leroux, for his service and to Councillor Laurin for stepping in and supporting the township during the transition period.
“As I assume this role, I am reminded of the trust and confidence you have placed in me. This trust is not taken lightly. I am committed to serving Russell Township with integrity, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to our shared values,” he stated.
Tarnowski pledges to work on the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan to focus on leadership, innovation, sustainability, development, equity, and community health with the goal to enhance economic growth, improving infrastructure, and a high quality of life for residents. Another point of his acceptance speech is fiscal responsibility to ensure that “every dollar spent is used wisely and efficiently.”
Tarnowski’s councillor seat was declared vacant during the same council meeting. Council now has 60 days to appoint a person to fill the vacancy or pass a by-law requiring a by-election be held to fill the vacancy. Council decided to make and announce the decision during the upcoming council meeting June 24.
If Council decide to proceed with a by-election, there are additional costs to consider. For 2024, there is nothing budgeted for a by-election, however, there is $16,306.56 in the election reserve accumulated to be used for the 2026 elections.
In 2022, the cost for the entirety of the municipal elections was $43,519.
Should they decide to run an election, the next step would be for the clerk to fix the date for the nomination, no less than 30 days and not more than 60 days after council agrees to run a by-election. The council of the clerk’s municipality passes a by-law indicating a by-election is required. And then the voting day will be 45 days after nomination day.
