New councillor for Monteagle Ward Alex Walder was sworn in to Hastings Highlands council Nov. 23. / SARAH SOBANSKI Staff

Dear Friends,

Let me begin by again expressing my sincere condolences to Mr. Leveque's wife, Anne, his children, extended family and his friends on his recent passing.

Mike was a respected friend and colleague who served tirelessly on council. I know he will be sorely missed by the community and his constituents. He has left a great vacuum in our council which will be a challenge to restore.

It is with mixed feelings that I write this; for on Nov. 23, 2016 I have been sworn in by Hastings Highlands council to complete his term in office for Monteagle.

I have accepted the task with the hope I may serve in his memory and do justice to Mike's legacy and his many accomplishments for our community.

For the two years remaining, I will dedicate myself to represent and serve Monteagle to the best of my ability; to work diligently and productively at council for Monteagle and for the greater good of Hastings Highlands.

I welcome the views and opinions of all. The hallmark of all my endeavours will include transparency, accessibility as well as accountability. I hope to serve the needs of the people in Hastings Highlands and to enhance the quality of our lives while balancing the needs with sensitivity for fiscal realities.

I invite everyone to please visit www.alexwalder.com; contact me at home 613-338-0028 and at alexwalder62@gmail.com, read my Twitter feed @alexwalder62 and join me on Facebook Alex Walder page.

I look forward to serving our community.

Sincerely,

Alex Walder