KDCC Director Enters Municipal Election Race
Director and Past-President of the Kenora and District Chamber of Commerce, Ron Malashewski, has officially filed his nomination papers for a Councillor-at-Large position with the City of Kenora.
Malashewski joins returning councillor Bob Bernie, former Mayor Dan Reynard, and new candidates Cecile Marcino, Bryan Booth, and Richard Kurtz in the race as of the time of writing. Kenora’s 2026 municipal election is set for October 26.
Born and raised in Kenora, Malashewski spent 20 years in Calgary and four years in Montreal before returning to his hometown more than two decades ago. Since returning, he has remained actively involved in the community through business leadership, volunteerism, and economic development initiatives.
After graduating from the University of Manitoba, Malashewski began his career as a Senior Engineer with the City of Calgary Electric System, now ENMAX Corporation. During his time there, he managed engineering projects, led multidisciplinary teams, and worked with City Council, senior administration, and community stakeholders on major municipal initiatives.
He later transitioned into the investment industry, working with Richardson Greenshields and BMO Nesbitt Burns before founding Cliff Lake Capital Ltd. Today, through Cliff Lake Entrepreneur Advisors, he continues to work with businesses and organizations in the areas of business development, investor relations, government relations, and strategic planning.
Malashewski has long been committed to serving the Kenora community. He previously served as President of the Kenora & District Chamber of Commerce and continues to serve as a Director on the Chamber’s Board, where he has worked alongside fellow board members to support local businesses, advocate for economic growth, and strengthen the region’s business community.
In addition to his work with the Chamber, he is a Past President and active member of the Rotary Club of Kenora and serves on the Board of the Kenora Hospitality Alliance, supporting initiatives that promote tourism, hospitality, and local economic development.
In announcing his candidacy, Malashewski said he believes his background in municipal operations, engineering, business, economic development, and community leadership has prepared him to serve on City Council. He has identified community safety, housing, economic development, and collaboration as key priorities, noting that while many of the challenges facing Kenora are shared by communities across Canada, local solutions must reflect the unique needs of residents and businesses.
The Kenora & District Chamber of Commerce congratulates Ron on his decision to seek public office and thanks him for his many years of service to the Chamber and the broader community. We wish him the best throughout the 2026 municipal election campaign.
