FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) elects new members to its Board of Directors to advance RMA’s mission and advocate for rural communities.
November 20, 2025, NISKU, AB – Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) announces its 2025-26 Board of Directors, composed of four returning members and three new representatives.
Kara Westerlund, Deputy Reeve of Brazeau County, continues her term as President, while Karen Rosvold, Councillor of County of Grande Prairie, continues as District 4 Director. Former District 1 Director, Jason Schneider, Reeve of Vulcan County, has been acclaimed as Vice President. Josh Bishop, Reeve of County of Wetaskiwin, also continues serving in the role of District 3 Director following acclamation.
Members also held elections for Districts 1, 2, and 5, based on the outcomes of the Vice President elections and the conclusion of current terms. These leaders will play a key role in representing their communities and working with RMA’s leadership to address the evolving needs of rural municipalities across Alberta. Kelly Christman, Deputy Reeve of County of Newell, was successful in the District 1 Director race. Larry Clarke, Reeve of County of Stettler, will begin his term representing District 2. Gene Hrabec, Reeve of Beaver County, was elected District 5 Director.
The 2025-2026 RMA Board of Directors is as follows:
- Kara Westerlund, (Brazeau County), President
- Jason Schneider (Vulcan County), Vice President
- Kelly Christman (County of Newell), District 1 Director
- Larry Clarke (County of Stettler), District 2 Director
- Josh Bishop (County of Wetaskiwin), District 3 Director
- Karen Rosvold (County of Grande Prairie), District 4 Director
- Gene Hrabec (Beaver County), District 5 Director
The RMA remains steadfast in its mission to empower Alberta’s rural municipalities through advocacy, collaboration, and valued business services. With a blend of new and returning board members, the RMA will continue championing policies to promote sustainable growth and support effective local governance.
About the Rural Municipalities of Alberta
The Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) is a trusted and independent association representing Alberta’s 69 counties and municipal districts. Since 1909, the RMA remains committed to empowering rural municipalities with strong, effective local governance. Through dedicated advocacy and a suite of valued business services, including cooperative procurement, insurance, and group benefits through the Canoe Procurement Group of Canada and comprehensive coverage through RMA Insurance, we strive to strengthen and support rural Alberta. Learn more at rmalberta.com.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Shamelle Pless
General Manager of Marketing & Communications
780.886.2480
shamelle@RMAlberta.com