Mark Walker
Candidate 2025 Banff Town Council
Mark Walker
Candidate 2025
Banff Town Council
Hi, I'm Mark! I've made Banff my home and have been living here for 18 years. I am running for Banff Town Council because I believe in a future where our community thrives as both a world-class travel destination and a vibrant place to live.
thoughtful leadership, clear communication, and a sustainability-focused perspective
I care deeply about protecting our natural surroundings while ensuring Banff remains affordable, accessible, and welcoming for the people who call it home. My goal is to bring thoughtful leadership, clear communication, and a sustainability-focused perspective to council, working hard to address today’s challenges while planning responsibly for the future.
Contact / Donations
QUALITIES
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Leadership – I am ready to step forward, make informed decisions, and guide with integrity while ensuring every voice in our community is respected.
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Communication – I believe that our elected officials should be able to communicate complicated ideas clearly and effectively both with their constituents and with each other. My background as an instructor has required the ability to break concepts down to help others achieve their goals.
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Approachability – We aren't always going to agree on every issue, but I'm always willing to have respectful discussions with those who hold opposing views. I believe councillors should attend public hearings as well as communicate through a variety of methods including in person, email, and social media. I have been an active participant on our local social pages for many years and am always willing to discuss my opinions on local issues.
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Critical Thinking – I believe in making data-based decisions viewed through the lens of experience and that sometimes the bigger picture needs to be considered. I take the time to carefully analyze issues, weigh different perspectives, and make informed decisions based on evidence and long-term benefits for the community.
Priorities
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Sustainability – I believe Banff must lead with a balanced approach to sustainability that considers our environment, our economy, and our community. Protecting the national park and surrounding ecosystem is essential, but so is ensuring local businesses can thrive and residents can access the supports they need. True sustainability means finding solutions that respect our natural setting while building a resilient community and economy.
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Housing – Housing is one of the most pressing issues facing Banff. We need creative and practical solutions to ensure that workers, families, and seniors have safe, affordable, and appropriate places to live. This means supporting policies and partnerships that expand housing options while respecting the unique land-use restrictions in our community.
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Traffic & Transit – Getting around Banff should be safe, efficient, and accessible. The Banff Transportation Master Plan did a good job at helping us manage increasing vehicle numbers by improving access to ROAM Transit, implementing scramble crossings, and implementing the resident paid parking program. That plan was released in 2013 and I think that the next version needs to consider how we can continue to manage resident and commercial traffic while providing alternatives to driving for visitors.
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Community Well-Being – Beyond infrastructure and policy, council decisions must foster a healthy, welcoming community. This includes supporting recreation, culture, and social programs that strengthen Banff as a place to live—not just a place to visit.
Donations
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