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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
On behalf of Alberta’s government, I’m pleased to welcome you to the Rural Municipalities of Alberta (AMA) 2026 Spring Convention. This convention provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on shared
challenges, exchange practical ideas, and strengthen the connections that support effective local leadership.
Those conversations matter because rural Alberta is central to our province’s success. By supporting the industries that drive our economy, stewarding Alberta’s vast landscapes, and delivering the essential services Albertans rely on every day, you help ensure Alberta remains the best place in Canada to live, work, and raise a family.
Like all governments, rural municipalities are managing increasing demands with finite resources. Ensuring strong governance and continuing to focus on essential services is more important than ever. Alberta’s government respects the leadership required to balance these pressures and remains committed to working collaboratively with municipalities as we navigate today’s challenges together.
The recent passage of Budget 2026 reflects these realities. Global uncertainty, rising costs, and rapid population growth are placing real pressure on essential services across the province, including in rural and remote communities. In that context, Budget 2026 focuses on what matters most: making disciplined choices and taking decisive action to keep Alberta moving forward.
Meeting today’s challenges requires working together. That spirit of collaboration guides Alberta’s government in its work with RMA. RMA is a valued partner, and together we are focused on practical improvements that support transparency, predictability, and local decision-making.
This includes our joint work on the Property Tax Accountability Strategy, as well as continued collaboration on reviewing assessment models for regulated properties. These efforts reflect a shared commitment to modern, consistent approaches that support municipalities, taxpayers, and long-term sustainability.
This kind of progress is only possible through collaboration. The strongest results come from working together, listening to one another, and learning along the way. Alberta’s government values RMA’s leadership and the role rural municipalities play in shaping Alberta’s future. I hope you have a great convention, and I look forward to continuing our wo together.
Honourable Dan Williams, ECA
Minister of Municipal Affairs
Name: RMA-Xplore
Password: Welcome2RMA!
Thank you to Stantec 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, March 16, x:xx am to x:xx pm
Tuesday, March 17, x:xx am to x:xx pm
Wednesday, March 18, x:xx am to x:xx 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
Fall 2026:
November 2 – 5, Edmonton Convention Centre
Spring 2027:
March 15 – 17, 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