The Essex Region Conservation Authority named its next chair at its annual general meeting Thursday night.
Irek Kusmierczyk was acclaimed and will sit at the head of the table heading into his second term representing Windsor on ERCA's board.
The Ward 7 Councillor says he sees how important the organization is to Windsor-Essex and Pelee Island.
"The leadership ERCA demonstrates on things like flooding, climate change, urban forest restoration, urban management in terms of managing the growth in our cities as well — it's absolutely critical to the health of our community," he says. "It's an absolute honour to be named the chair."
He hopes to keep focused on key issues and continue the momentum created by outgoing members.
"In the city we experienced two major-floods over the last three years and we want to make sure we have the policies in place to be able to deal with flooding and the challenge of climate change," says Kusmierczyk, who's heading into his fifth year on the board. "I think ERCA is in a great place to demonstrate leadership on that front."
Kusmierczyk says the organization brings "tremendous people" to the table.
"Being able to leverage the passion, the expertise, and the knowledge that's out there within our region, I think that's what sets ERCA apart and that's what makes ERCA sustainable as an organization," he added.
The vice chair position needed a vote as Tecumseh Councillor Tania Jobin was chosen over LaSalle Councillor Sue Dajarlais.