Businessman Mark Kamachi came out of Monday night as the chosen elect for Bragg Creek (Div. 1).
Kamachi, armed with a campaign slogan of “Let’s Grow Sensibly Together,” is an advocate for smart, managed growth.
First order of business, after the honeymoon phase among administration and council wraps up, is to start building the tax base through “sensible growth.”
“It’s to get everybody talking again … we have to start growing our tax base … we’ve been shrinking as a community and everything will start to get more expensive (if we don’t),” said Kamachi, following his win.
“I believe that by supporting housing for young families, seniors, affordable spaces for artisans and retailers, we will increase our tax base and by extension our ability to implement more functional infrastructure,” he said on his campaign website.
Kamachi finished with 617 votes against journalist Enrique Massot, who came in with 250. Coun. Liz Breakey announced early on that she would not be seeking re-election.
The Creeker and owner of AdMaki Creative marketing firm is looking to put the hamlet, which is still reeling post-2013 flood impacts, back on the tourist destination map to bolster businesses and develop carefully without impacting the integrity of the hamlet by “striking a balance” between the natural elements and unique characteristics enjoyed by Creekers and the businesses in need of support.
A husband and father of two girls, Kamachi has lived in the Creek for 15 years. Post-flood, his AdMaki team worked heavily with the Chamber of Commerce to get the message out that Bragg Creek is open for business.
Kamachi is a supporter of the McLean Creek flood mitigation solution, stacked against the province-preferred Springbank dam option that is currently under review.
A resume that includes charity work for such organizations as Easter Seals Camp Horizon, The Greater Bragg Creek Trails Association and Redwood Meadows Emergency Services, the brand man is also a member of five-piece band Skuzzy and the Woodticks on harmonica and vocals. He is an active volunteer in the community.
Massot moved to the Creek five years ago after living in division 9 for two years and Calgary prior.
Best known for his County News Online publication, Massot regularly took county decisions to task and questioned administration for a perceived absence of transparency and accountability.
Massot’s grassroots approach championed fiscal responsibility, meaningful public engagement and preservation of the agriculture base.
