Mike Tarnowski runs for a second term on Russell’s council

Mike Tornowski
Courtesy Photo

EMBRUN – “I’ve been a resident of this great township for almost 28 years,” township of Russell councillor Mike Tarnowski said. “It’s been a fantastic place for Tracy, my wife, and I to raise our family. Before being elected to this current council, I’ve always been a very active volunteer on various committees within our community. We’ve always taught our children that civic engagement is important, and I like to lead by example.”

Tarnowski has submitted his nomination papers for re-election. In addition to four years on council, Tarnowski also has a master’s degree from the Guelph School of Management and Economics, more than 20 years of business and leadership role experience, and 15-plus years volunteering.

“Members of council are required to make important decisions that have lasting impacts on our community. This requires a good amount of experience in administration, finance, and leadership, with a love and passion for our community,” he said, adding that he’s also well versed in Russell history. Tarnowski is fully bilingual.

Tarnowski said he’s proud of what the current council has accomplished, so far. He listed a few projects he’d like to see completed, including the relocation of the Embrun Library branch.

“We’ve made great strides in improving the township’s financial position with our asset management policy. Our industrial park has also developed very well in the past four years. Still, there is more to do,” he said, adding that decisions need to be made while also acknowledging the need to manage and optimize Russell’s limited resources.

Tarnowski said an effective councillor needs to be able to comfortably debate important decisions while staying open to compromise and creative solutions that are not always apparent. He also said that being on council is not easy, but it is gratifying to be helping the community.

“I want to continue serving our community. With the current economic forecasts – inflation and possible recession – coupled with our township’s significant projects, we require a strong council with experienced leadership, decision-making, and financial know-how,” Tarnowski said. “I would consider myself a protector of resident rights. Townships hold a vital role in administrating our community, but despite best intentions, sometimes it can cross the line between administration and control. I strongly believe in community-service-focused administration. A vote for me, is a vote for an experienced resident-focused council member.”