Russ Powers Acclaimed New AMO President

TORONTO, Aug. 23, 2012 /CNW/ - Hamilton City Councillor Russ Powers was acclaimed President of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) on Wednesday at the Association's 2012 annual conference in Ottawa.

"It's an honour to represent the interests of Ontario's municipalities," said Powers. "I look forward to continuing the Association's efforts to create strong, sustainable communities."

"AMO is in good hands," said Gary McNamara, Past President of AMO and Mayor of Tecumseh. "Russ has been a member of the Board since 2006 and has a strong appreciation for the needs of municipal governments across Ontario. I know he will continue to be an effective and energetic advocate for municipal interests as President of AMO."

Powers has represented the community of Dundas for nearly 30 years, including roles as a Dundas Town Councillor, Hamilton-Wentworth Regional Councillor and currently as a member of Hamilton City Council.

The AMO president serves as the voice of 43-member board that is comprised of elected officials and senior municipal staff from across Ontario. The AMO Board represents a cross-section of Ontario's municipalities, including both urban and rural communities from all geographic regions.

AMO is a non-profit organization representing almost all of Ontario's 444 municipal governments.  AMO supports strong and effective municipal government in Ontario and promotes the value of municipal government as a vital and essential component of Ontario and Canada's political system.

SOURCE: Association of Municipalities of Ontario

Brian Lambie, AMO Media Contact, 416-729-5425