Following the passing of the late Mr. Guy Desjardins earlier this year, the municipal council of the Cité de / City of Clarence-Rockland have elected new Mayor, Mr. Mario Zanth. 

The decision to elect a new mayor from within the municipal council was a decision Mr. Zanth and his colleagues took in order to preserve continuity in such an important role. 

Mayor Desjardins, who spoke last year of his battle with Stage 4 cancer, took a 3-month leave of absence three weeks ago but passed away last Saturday July 3rd.

With the mayor of the municipality playing an important role on on the council of the United Counties of Prescott-Russell (UCPR) as well as hosting the local council meetings for the City of Clarence-Rockland, the councilors decided it would be better for all the citizens if someone with knowledge of the role took it over. 

Mr. Zanth was elected without a vote required as the only councilors running against him, Mr. André Lalonde, withdrew his nomination publicly, prior to the vote. 

With an emotional speech Mayor Zanth thanked his colleagues for the trust placed in him, whilst acknowledging the somber reason for needing the election as he praised his "friend and mentor". 

After being sworn in during a special council meeting on Wednesday 8th of September, Mayor Zanth will hold the position until the next municipal election in October 2022 - although that may not be the end of his time in office as the new Mayor has emphasized his intent to run for the position next fall. 

Listen to the interview below to learn more.