Richard Froese
South Peace News
Town of Falher Mayor Donna Buchinski was honoured by the Alberta Municipalities for her dedication and outstanding service on municipal council for 27 years.
She received the Alberta Municipalities Award of Excellence Sept. 24 during the AM convention Sept. 24 in Red Deer.
Buchinski’s award is a testament to her dedicated service and outstanding civic leadership in Falher, states an AM news release Aug. 14.
First elected to council as a councillor in a byelection in 1997, Buchinski has served as mayor for the last 13 years.
“I feel proud and honoured,” Buchinski says.
“I am very thankful and appreciative for council and administration’s nomination for this prestigious award.”
She is also grateful for being chosen by Alberta Municipalities that serves cities, towns and villages.
“It reaffirms my contribution and commitment to municipal government,” Buchinski says.
She has long had a passion to serve and improve the community and region she calls home.
“I have always been a very community-minded and driven person, with a strong belief in giving back, volunteering my time where needed,” Buchinski says.
“Town council is the ultimate form of volunteering.”
Serving on boards and committees to represent council, she makes sure Falher’s voice is heard in discussions and decisions.
She says her commitment to council and the community has been well worth it.
“My time on council has been extremely rewarding and challenging,” Buchinski says.
“I’ve been very fortunate to have worked, and continue to work, with such dedicated councillors and amazing staff.
“We celebrate the successes and we work together through the challenges that arise.”
She feels privileged in her leadership role.
“Representing the Town of Falher on council and as mayor has truly been an honour,” Buchinski says.
“I have immense pride in my community and I feel very thankful to the residents of Falher for their continued support and confidence in my abilities to serve them over the years.
“I truly believe Falher is one of the best places to live and raise a family in Alberta.”
She encourages other residents to consider serving on council as the next local government elections are scheduled Oct. 20, 2025 for a four-year term.
“Serve with honesty and integrity, be open-minded, community-minded, not individually-minded,” says Buchinski.
“You will have a rewarding and fulfilling experience.”
Buchinski says she still has the heart to continue on council.
“I have remained on council because I love my community, wanting to make Falher a safe and viable community, a place where people want to live, work and raise a family,” Buchinski says.
“I also believe in the advantages of small- town living, its uniqueness and community pride is second to none.”
She says she has had the opportunity and privilege to represent Falher residents with all levels of government, locally, regionally and provincially.
“Meeting with our local MLA and cabinet ministers whenever possible ensures the town has a positive working relationship with the province while discussing our concerns and highlighting the advantages of small-town living,” says Buchinski.