Russell Township has a new mayor.
Councillor Mike Tarnowski was sworn in as mayor at a council meeting on May 27.
Former Mayor Pierre Leroux resigned on May 19 to become Chief Administrative Officer of The Nation Municipality. Council decided to appoint a new mayor rather than hold a by-election. Tarnowski will serve as mayor until the next election on October 26, 2026. Councillor Jamie Laurin had served as acting mayor prior to Tarnowski’s appointment.
After being sworn in on May 27, Tarnowski delivered a short speech outlining how he plans to lead the municipality during the next two years. He said widespread public engagement is one of his core values.
“I strongly encourage open dialogue, active involvement, and a sense of shared responsibility in shaping the future of our township,” Tarnowski said.
The new mayor said the “cornerstone” of his administration will be fiscal responsibility.
“We must ensure that every dollar spent is used wisely and efficiently. This means leveraging the optimal use of grants and partnership opportunities to help fund our upcoming major infrastructure projects. By doing so, we can build a resilient and future-ready township without placing undue financial burden on current and future residents,” Tarnowski said.
On May 27, council also declared Tarnowski’s former council seat vacant. Council has the option of appointing a new councillor or calling a by-election.
Councillor Jamie Laurin said he was not yet ready to make a decision on how to proceed with filling the vacancy.
“I would still like some time to meet with members of the public to gauge their interest in how they want that to go,” he said before suggesting a decision be made at the June 24 council meeting. Council agreed to vote on how to fill the vacancy separately at that time.
As Mayor of Russell Township, Tarnowski will also be the township’s representative on United Counties of Prescott and Russell (UCPR) council. It meets next on June 12.
