Key Facts
• July 1, 2025: Takaoka mayoral election won by 60-year-old Jo Demachi.
• Defeated incumbent Yuki Kakuta (42) and others to secure first term.
• Pledged to eliminate $260,000 annual liquefaction countermeasure costs for three districts.
• Plans to repurpose closed Takaoka Law University campus for a new public university.
• Proposed direct train connection from Manyo Line to Shin-Takaoka Station.
• Advocates for expanding Takaoka copperware exports to Asian markets via direct diplomacy.
• Opposes current city hall reconstruction plans, suggesting a review.
• Intends to halt sub-arena project for Takeda Memorial Gymnasium, prioritizing new sports complex.
• Plans to accelerate new sports complex opening from 20 years to earlier timeline.
• Faces challenges with city council dominated by Kakuta supporters.
• Aims to involve private sector experts in city governance.
• Committed to transparent communication and resident engagement.
Summary
Jo Demachi, a former city councilor, has been elected as the new mayor of Takaoka, defeating incumbent Yuki Kakuta. Demachi is committed to fulfilling his campaign promises, including eliminating resident costs for liquefaction countermeasures, establishing a public university on the former Takaoka Law University campus, and improving local infrastructure. He also plans to expand Takaoka’s traditional copperware exports through direct diplomacy and review current city hall reconstruction plans. Demachi faces challenges with a city council largely composed of Kakuta supporters but aims to overcome this through transparent communication and collaboration with private sector experts. His administration seeks to accelerate the timeline for a new sports complex and prioritize fiscal efficiency while engaging residents in key decisions.
