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Welcome to the RMA 2025 Fall Convention!
It is truly an honor to welcome our members, guests, and invited speakers to what promises to be an inspiring week of learning, collaboration, and connection. A special congratulations to the newly elected representatives joining us for the first time, and a warm welcome back to those returning. This convention is an opportunity to build relationships, share ideas, and strengthen the ties that unite rural Alberta. We are thrilled to feature Mark Cohon as our keynote speaker, setting the stage for meaningful conversations on the critical issues shaping our communities.
On Wednesday, we will gather for the resolutions session, where nine diverse resolutions reflect the perspectives and priorities across our membership. In addition, delegates can explore a wide range of educational sessions on topics such as council-administration relationships, Alberta’s nuclear future, emergency management, and more. These sessions are designed to inform and empower, thanks to the expertise of our partners and presenters.
This week also offers a unique chance for RMA members to engage directly with provincial ministers and government representatives. The Ministerial Forums on Thursday will be a highlight, providing valuable dialogue on the province’s approach to rural priorities, complemented by a strong provincial presence throughout the event.
As always, networking remains at the heart of our convention experience. Be sure to check the agenda for social events supported by our generous sponsors—these moments often spark the connections that lead to lasting collaboration.
In closing, I extend my heartfelt thanks to my fellow board members, the dedicated RMA staff, and our sponsors for making this event possible. Together, we are proud to represent and advocate for the innovative, hard-working communities that define rural Alberta.
Enjoy the convention and thank you for being part of this important work.
Kara Westerlund, RMA President
It is an honour to join you for my first Rural Municipalities of Alberta Convention and Trade Show as Alberta’s new Minister of Municipal Affairs. Having spent my life in rural Alberta, I know firsthand the dedication and leadership that define our counties and municipal districts. This gathering reflects that same spirit of collaboration, as rural leaders come together to shape a stronger Alberta. I’m thrilled to be part of it.
I’d like to start by offering my sincere appreciation to everyone who recently put their name forward in October’s local elections. Serving as a local council member takes courage, commitment, and a deep sense
of responsibility. Congratulations to those newly elected, and welcome back to those returning.
You have a very important job representing the needs of rural Albertans and efficiently delivering the core services that your communities depend on. We serve the same taxpayer, so I am looking forward to working with you to ensure that your communities stay strong and resilient.
This convention is more than speeches and presentations; it’s a forum to share experiences, tackle challenges unique to rural municipalities,
and strengthen the partnerships that keep Alberta’s heartland strong. The insights you bring, from supporting vital local services to driving agricultural and resource-based growth, help shape decisions that matter to every Albertan.
As your new Municipal Affairs Minister, I see tremendous value in being part of these conversations to ensure that everyone is proud of their community. I look forward to meeting many of you over the course of the convention, hearing your perspectives, and building the relationships that will guide our work together in the weeks and months ahead.
Honourable Dan Williams, ECA
Minister of Municipal Affairs
Name: RMA-Xplore
Password: Welcome2RMA!
Thank you to Xplore Inc. for sponsoring!
Join the conversation on social media; use the hashtag #RMAlberta.
Taxi vouchers will be provided for transportation between hotels and the conference instead of shuttle buses. This gives you flexibility in choosing when and where to travel. Attendees can easily get vouchers for their convenience.
Located at the Edmonton Convention Centre, Foyer, Hall D
Monday, November 17, 2:00 to 5:00 pm
Tuesday, November 18, 7:00 am to 2:30 pm
Wednesday, November 19, 7:00 am to 4:00 pm
Thursday, November 20, 7:00 am to 12:30 pm
Located at the Edmonton Convention Centre, Foyer of Hall ABC on the Assembly Level.
Monday, November 17, 2:00 to 6:00 pm
Tuesday, November 18, 7:30 am to 6:00 pm
Spring 2026:
March 16 – 18, Edmonton Convention Centre
Fall 2026:
November 2 – 5, Edmonton Convention Centre
John Burrows (Chair) RMA Vice President
Laurie Lyckman District 1, Vulcan County
Larry Clarke District 2, Stettler County
Kristin Toms District 3, Sturgeon County
Lisa Wardley District 4, Mackenzie County
Gene Hrabec District 5, Beaver County
Karen Rosvold (Chair) RMA District 4 Director
Tory Campbell District 1, Lethbridge County
Lisa Wardley District 4, Mackenzie County
Kelly Christman (Alternate) District 1, County of Newell
Theresa Johnson (Alternate) District 4, MD of Peace