Carrie Machen

Carrie was raised in Gadsden, graduating from Gadsden High School. She has been married to Chris Machen for 18 years and has two children, Dillon 17 and Madelon 16. She is an experienced entrepreneur, opening GadRock Microgym, a rock climbing gym on the banks of the Coosa. A passionate volunteer, Carrie serves on the board of many local non-profit organizations. When not at GadRock or volunteering her time, Carrie can typically be found outside climbing, hiking or paddling at one of our many local recreational outdoor areas.

Some of my fondest childhood memories are stomping through the creeks and streams that feed Lake Neely Henry, walking to school and riding my bike (with no hands) around the neighborhood. A lot has changed in Gadsden since I was a child and it is clear to me that our city desperately needs a community-driven plan for growth. I want to personally invite each of you to take part in driving the vision for District 4 and our community.

I know firsthand the obstacles small businesses face in getting started and I know that in order for us to face the challenges of a changing economy we must support local leaders that are investing in our area. Our community is full of talent and we have to provide resources to encourage emerging leaders to invest right here. We also have to recruit new industries that fit with our community-driven growth plan. Compensation for city personnel must be competitive for our area, so we can recruit, train and retain vital employees. I have volunteered with, worked with, talked with, planned with and dreamed with all of you, my neighbors. Together we have the ideas to continue to make this a city that our children will come back to and others are excited to move to. Let's connect, make the plan and champion our future.