Councillor Marc Lalonde reflected on four years of service to Russell Township and thanked his colleagues and municipal staff in farewell remarks at the Oct. 19 special council meeting. Mayor Mike Tarnowski responded with a tribute to Lalonde’s commitment to the community.
Elected in 2022, Lalonde served as chair of the township’s Accessibility Advisory Committee and its Planning Advisory Committee/Committee of Adjustment. In his farewell, he highlighted work on accessibility, affordable housing and recognition of community volunteers among the accomplishments of his term.
Marc Lalonde
Watch his remarks, beginning at 1:03:27
I appreciate being given a few minutes to address my fellow members of council. I want to thank you all for the pleasure and the privilege of serving alongside you these past 4 years. We faced many challenges, issues together, including the approval of the rec complex, recognition of the need to support affordable housing and community development, industrial park expansion, and wastewater treatment requirements.
For me personally, a few notable achievements come to mind: the selection process and hiring of Richard Godin as township's new CAO. Guiding the work of our Accessibility Advisory Committee to shine a new light on the needs of our developmentally disabled residents, and increasing our efforts in recognizing more of the outstanding volunteers in our community are also proud accomplishments.
Special thanks to Councilor Deacon, who supported my early thoughts and ideas on affordable housing. As the so-called rookie member of council, along with myself, Lisa wasted little time demonstrating insight and ideas to match those of our more experienced members.
I want to express my gratitude also to Mayor Tarnowski, to Mike, as well, for the leadership and commitment you've shown this council and the residents of our township. The fact that you've been acclaimed for the next 4-year term, Mike, is a testimony to your good character and your leadership.
[translated from French] I would also like to acknowledge and thank Richard Godin and all the managers in his administration. For their very good work in support of our council and for the support they have given me personally during my term. [end of translation]
I want to wish you, Mr. Mayor and fellow councillors, continued commitment and strength in carrying out your next term on council, which appears likely at this time. I encourage you all to continue working together to resolve the evolving issues and the challenges that lay ahead. My learned experience on council has taught me that respect and collaboration seem to work best in all situations. This approach may not solve all the problems or conflict that arises, but often prevents them from becoming larger ones.
Mr. Mayor, members of council, and staff, make sure to take a moment each day to appreciate and to take pride in the important work you're all doing on behalf of our residents.
[translated from French] I remain very grateful for the time and support I received from you, Mr. Mayor, members of council and members of our administration. I thank you sincerely and wish you every strength as you carry on. Thank you. [end of translation]
Mayor Mike Tarnowski responded to Lalonde’s remarks:
Watch his response, beginning at 1:06:10
[translated from French] Thank you very much, Councillor Lalonde. [end of translation]
And as I spoke earlier on, your community owes you a debt of gratitude for your time and your commitment over these past 4 years and all the many years that that you've given in all the capacities that you've taken on. So very much appreciated. Enjoy your time away from this council table, but always you're always welcome to any council meeting. Just remember that. Thank you. All right, all right, thank you.