During the annual swearing-in ceremony held earlier this evening, Mr. Normand Riopel, Mayor of the Township of Champlain, was acclaimed Warden of the United Counties of Prescott and Russell (UCPR) for the year 2023. On the same occasion, the Mayors from the region were sworn in as Members of the Council for the 2022 to 2026 term.
As a politician who has been involved in the community for over 30 years and a former owner of a local hardware-fasteners store, Mr. Riopel brings a wealth of municipal experience, a passion for the community, and a keen understanding of regional matters to the Council table. Mr. Riopel was first nominated by Mr. Pierre Leroux, Mayor of the Municipality of Russell and then seconded by Mr. Robert Kirby, Mayor of the Township of East Hawkesbury.
From the outset, the new Warden outlined his priorities for his term in office, which include a balanced and responsible budget process, assessing the need for Standing Committees within the governance of the UCPR, moving forward with the Prescott and Russell Residence Redevelopment Project, implementing road safety initiatives, improving access to natural gas, and revising the weighted formula of votes within the Council of the UCPR.
“It is with great humility, honour, and conviction that I accept to serve as Warden,” said Mr. Riopel during his swearing-in speech. “As we face important challenges and undertake critical changes, I pledge to work tirelessly and fully for the good of all communities in the region.”
During the event, and as tradition would have it, outgoing Warden, Daniel Lafleur, had the opportunity to distribute the historic amount of $71,000 to 28 community organizations in the region. To find out which organizations have benefited from the 2022 Warden’s Fund as well as the amounts awarded, please refer to the attached list.