Russell Mayor Mike Tarnowski says 2025 was a productive year for the Municipality of Russell, marked by strong collaboration, prudent financial management, and significant progress on several major community projects.
In a recent exchange, the mayor noted that the municipality continued to move forward by working closely with Council, municipal staff, senior levels of government, neighbouring municipalities, community organizations, and the private sector. This collaborative approach, he said, helped deliver tangible results that directly benefit residents.
One of the most notable achievements of 2025 was record-breaking success in securing external funding. More than $26 million in grants were awarded over the course of the year, including a $10 million provincial investment toward the new Recreation Complex. The announcement was made on site by Premier Doug Ford, marking the first official visit by a sitting premier to the Municipality of Russell. According to Mayor Tarnowski, this milestone reflected effective advocacy and strong working relationships, while also helping to ease pressure on local taxpayers.
Throughout the year, Council also remained focused on financial sustainability and affordability. Continued progress was made in closing the infrastructure funding gap identified in the Township’s Asset Management Plan, and the 2026 budget was adopted with the second-lowest municipal tax rate in the United Counties of Prescott and Russell. This balanced approach, the mayor said, ensures that current services are protected while responsibly setting aside funds to address future infrastructure needs.
At the same time, the municipality took important steps to prepare for balanced and resilient growth. A new Strategic Economic and Community Development Plan was advanced, along with the creation of a Community Development position. Together, these initiatives are designed to support economic diversification, strengthen the commercial and industrial tax base, and reduce reliance on residential taxation, while ensuring growth respects the Township’s rural and agricultural roots.
Key areas of focus include strengthening partnerships with local organizations, attracting more doctors to the community, and supporting initiatives that enhance residents’ quality of life and make Russell a place where people choose to stay, raise families, and build their future.
Major community infrastructure projects also continued to take shape in 2025. Construction of the new Recreation Complex, the Township’s largest capital investment to date, progressed throughout the year, with planning efforts already underway to ensure a successful opening and long-term value for residents. In addition, long-standing community priorities advanced through a partnership with the Co-op to deliver a new, purpose-built library in Embrun, with completion anticipated in late 2026 or early 2027.
Looking ahead to 2026, Mayor Tarnowski said priorities remain clear and focused. Collaboration will continue to guide decision-making, including working with neighbouring municipalities to explore opportunities to optimize service delivery, manage costs, and maintain or improve service levels. Fiscal responsibility will remain central, with careful management of expenses and continued investment in future infrastructure needs.
Community engagement, transparency, and accountability will also be key priorities, particularly as major projects such as the Recreation Complex near completion and open to the public. Ensuring projects are delivered on time, on budget, and without surprises will remain a strong focus. At the same time, planning will begin for the future use of existing municipal assets that may no longer be needed once the new complex opens, with community-driven discussions aimed at finding fiscally responsible solutions that continue to enhance quality of life.
Mayor Tarnowski also confirmed that he intends to run again in the 2026 municipal election. However, he emphasized that his primary focus remains on the work ahead.
“My focus right now is very much on the work ahead — seeing major projects like the Recreation Complex and the new Embrun library branch through to completion, continuing to manage our finances responsibly, and working closely with Council, staff, and our partners to deliver for our community,” he said.
According to the mayor, these efforts reflect a continued commitment to thoughtful leadership, strong partnerships, and long-term planning, ensuring the Municipality of Russell remains financially stable, community-focused, and well positioned for the future.
