(rdnewsNOW file photo)

By rdnewsNOW Staff

NEW PRESIDENT, KARA WESTERLUND

Rural Municipalities of Alberta elect new leadership team at Fall Convention

Nov 7, 2024 | 3:36 PM

The Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) has elected a new president, vice-president, and board of directors to advance its mission and advocate for rural communities.

The title of president has been awarded to Kara Westerlund, a councillor of Brazeau County, following her election at the organization’s annual Fall Convention.

Westerlund has served as the RMA’s vice-president since 2017, offering extensive experience and a commitment to advocating for rural municipalities.

“I’m truly excited to step into this position and guide the RMA forward,” she shared. “We have important work to do, but together, we are ready to tackle the challenges ahead. The solutions are here within our board, among rural elected officials, our administration, and the dedicated team at the RMA and their group of companies. By working together, we will move those solutions forward and make a meaningful impact for rural Alberta.”

Westerlund succeeds Paul McLauchlin, who has led the RMA since 2020.

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“Kara is going to be an outstanding leader,” commented McLauchlin. “She’s not only a good friend of mine but also a true ally to rural Alberta. Kara brings a wealth of skill and experience, and I’m especially proud to acknowledge her as the first female president of the RMA—a significant milestone for our organization. With this dedicated team, we’re well-positioned to continue growing and supporting rural Alberta.”

Members also held elections for districts one, three, and four, based on the outcomes of the president and vice-president elections and the conclusion of current terms.

The 2024-2025 RMA Board of Directors is as follows:

• Kara Westerlund, (Brazeau County), president
• John Burrows (Woodlands County), vice-president
• Jason Schneider (Vulcan County), district one director
• Amber Link (Wheatland County), district two director
• Josh Bishop (County of Wetaskiwin), district three director
• Karen Rosvold (County of Grande Prairie), district four director
• Kevin Wirsta (County of St. Paul), district five director