N EWS NICK GALLAGHER FOCUSES ON RESPONSIBLE GROWTH, LOCAL ECONOMY IN RUSSELL CAMPAIGN
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GABRIELLE VINETTE gabrielle.vinette@eap.on.ca
local economy is another priority, parti- cularly by making Russell Township more business-friendly. He would like the municipality to exa- mine ways to reduce unnecessary red tape surrounding permits and approvals while considering appropriate zoning changes that could allow more small businesses and services to operate closer to residential neighbourhoods. Supporting childcare providers is another part of his platform. With more people returning to offices several days a week, Gallagher said Russell needs to make it easier for responsible daycare and childcare providers to establish and expand in the township. He said increasing access to childcare would support working families while also keeping more economic activity and spen- ding within Russell. “When we shop local, support local and buy local, we keep more of our dollars here,” he said. Experience in government and public policy Gallagher said his professional experience would also be an asset if he is elected. He has worked in several positions with both the provincial and federal governments over the past 15 to 20 years. He said that experience has given him an understanding of government processes, policy develop- ment, funding, infrastructure and housing projects. He also highlighted his experience working with budgets, public financing and competing priorities. “I know how to listen, find common ground and develop practical solutions,” he said. Gallagher has also been involved in the community, including volunteering as a coach with the Russell Renegades football program and volunteering at the Russell Fair. Fiscal transparency Fiscal responsibility and transparency are the third major pillar of Gallagher’s campaign. He said major municipal projects, inclu- ding the recreational complex and regional wastewater treatment plant, involve signi- ficant public expenditures and should be carefully planned, monitored and commu- nicated to residents. “We need to make sure that projects like
these are well planned, on time, on budget, and deliver value to our residents,” he said. Gallagher also wants residents to receive clearer information about construction pro- jects and road closures, including timelines and different phases of work. He said taxpayers should understand not only how much money is being spent, but also why decisions are being made and what value residents are receiving in return. A long-term commitment to Russell Gallagher said his campaign is ultimately about ensuring Russell remains a community where his family and other residents want to live for decades to come. He does not want the township to lose its identity or become simply a suburb of
Nick Gallagher is entering the 2026 municipal election race in Russell Township with a campaign focused on responsible growth, strengthening the local community and ensuring greater fiscal transparency. Gallagher, who moved to Russell Township with his family about six years ago, said his connection to the community is a major reason he decided to seek a seat on council. “We’re proud to have started putting down roots,” he said, describing Russell as a safe, friendly and welcoming community with a strong community spirit and small-town character. Gallagher said he wants to help protect those qualities while preparing the township for continued growth. “We can’t stop growth, but we can plan for it,” he said. Planning for growth Responsible growth is one of the three main pillars of Gallagher’s campaign. He said the township needs to focus on building complete communities rather than simply adding more housing. That means ensuring infrastructure, roads, parks, recreation and other commu- nity amenities keep pace with development. Gallagher also wants to see neighbou- rhoods become more connected and pedes- trian-friendly, giving residents opportunities to walk or cycle to parks, recreation facilities and everyday services rather than relying on their vehicles for every trip. He pointed to investments such as the new Edie Park, which will include pickleball and tennis courts and a splash pad, as examples of amenities that can provide safe spaces for families and encourage residents to spend more time outdoors. He also believes incorporating appropriate small-scale retail and services into residen- tial areas could reduce unnecessary car trips while helping preserve the township’s close-knit character. “We need to build communities for fami- lies, and not just build houses,” Gallagher said. Supporting local businesses and families Gallagher said strengthening the
Ottawa as the population grows. “I’m all in on Russell,” he said.
Gallagher said his three campaign prio- rities, a plan for the future, a strong com- munity and fiscal transparency, reflect his desire to see Russell grow in a sustainable and responsible way while maintaining the community spirit that attracted him and his family. “I want to make sure that my family’s going to be here, my kids are growing up here, and I just want this to be a great place for them,” he said. “And in doing so, I want it to be a great place for everybody who’s living here.” The 2026 Ontario municipal elections will take place on Monday, October 26, 2026. Voters across the province will elect mayors, city councillors, and school board trustees. Because the nomination window closed on August 21, the official campaign period is fully underway. Incumbent Mayor Mike Tarnowski has been acclaimed to his position for the 2026–2030 term after running unopposed, meaning there will be no mayoral race on the ballot. However, voters will still cast ballots to elect four Township Councillors, School Board Trustees, and Police Village of Russell Trustees. The voting period begins on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 9a.m. to Monday, October 26, 2026, at 8 p.m.
Russell Township council candidate Nick Gallagher is campaigning on responsible growth, a stronger local economy and greater fiscal transparency. (Photo provided) Eligible residents can vote anytime during this window online, by phone, or in person.\ Unofficial election results will be reported shortly after 8:00 p.m. on October 26 at the Town Hall in Embrun and posted online. Starting September 1, eligible voters may register on the voter roll, correct or update their information, or request to be removed from the roll through the municipality. After June 1st for School Boards and after August 12, 2026, to confirm, update or add your voter information, please fill in the form Application to Amend Voters’ List and submit to elections@russell.ca along with a piece of ID (as per list below). You may also bring it in person to Town Hall Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
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