Gawryluk seeks Mackenzie council seat, brings municipal government experience to campaign

His work also extended beyond traditional municipal departments, including assisting with recreation services when needed. After leaving Mackenzie approximately three years ago to accept a public works management position in Esquimalt, Gawryluk and his family have since returned to the community.

“We love Mackenzie. We love the community and love the people,” he said. “We decided that it’s time to give back where we can.”

Now retired, Gawryluk says serving on council is one way he hopes to contribute to the community.

Unlike many first-time candidates, Gawryluk enters the race with extensive knowledge of municipal government operations and legislation. He said that experience has provided valuable insight into what local governments can realistically achieve.

“One thing about working inside local government is I know exactly what local government can achieve,” he said. “I know what we can and cannot do.”

If elected, Gawryluk said one of his priorities would be maintaining the momentum established by the current mayor and council, which he believes have faced difficult circumstances over the last four years.

“I really support the current mayor and council,” he said. “I think they’ve done a fantastic job these last four years.”

He noted that Mackenzie has been dealing with the loss of major industries, shrinking revenues and the ongoing challenge of maintaining aging infrastructure.

“We’ve lost major industry here in Mackenzie, which has been devastating,” Gawryluk said.

Rather than seeking major shifts in direction, he said he would prefer to continue advancing projects already underway, including infrastructure improvements and efforts to strengthen the community’s economic future.

“I’d like to see the momentum continue,” he said.

Infrastructure and asset management are among the issues closest to his heart. Drawing on his public works background, Gawryluk said the district must continue investing in roads, utilities and other local assets while planning for future costs.

He also said accessibility improvements should become a greater priority. Gawryluk pointed to sidewalks, curb ramps and pedestrian infrastructure that he believes need upgrades to better serve seniors and residents with mobility challenges.

“We need to be better for accessibility,” he said. “In some areas it’s unacceptable.”

Fiscal sustainability is another key focus of his campaign. Gawryluk said municipalities across British Columbia are facing rising costs associated with infrastructure, labour and services, making long-term financial planning increasingly important.

“We cannot tax people with these 12, 15 or 16 per cent increases every year,” he said. “It’s just not sustainable.”

Instead, he believes municipalities should seek alternative revenue sources while continuing to advocate for increased support from senior levels of government.

His campaign also emphasizes improving communication between local government and residents. Gawryluk said many people are willing to support municipal decisions if they are provided with clear explanations and a better understanding of how public funds are being spent.

“Most people are pretty good with it,” he said. “They just want to be informed and they want to know where their money is going.”

He would like to see the district expand its communication efforts through tools such as informational fact sheets and more public engagement.

“Local government should not be an island unto itself,” Gawryluk said.

He also hopes to encourage greater public participation in local government and decision-making, arguing that informed and engaged residents are essential to the long-term success of the community.

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Email: Adam.Berls@pattisonmedia.com

by Adam Berls

Gawryluk seeks Mackenzie council seat, brings municipal government experience to campaign

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