I am from a family where my parents not only had a strong faith, they lived it and showed in their day to day lives. They displayed integrity, kindness and a gentle touch to those they crossed paths with. They lived their lives quietly and were not showy people. They taught me these principles and to this day I ask myself "would this pass Mom and Dad's scrutiny", before making decisions which affect my family or others.
List of Priorities
Infrastructure Renewal
I realize every candidate is pledging to make our streets as smooth as glass. Although that goal may not be achievable, I believe we need to begin a strategic, long term infrastructure rebuilding plan for Winnipeg's crumbling streets and water / sewer lines. I will work to identify the worst offenders in our ward and begin the process of getting them in the cue for renewal. This does not just apply to streets, but back lanes as well. Recently I was driving in a back lane in Westwood and was forced to turn around due to the deplorable condition of the lane. I have spoken with residents and heard stories of how they park on the street because their back lane is impassable and they are unable to access their garage or parking pad without damaging their vehicle. That is not acceptable. If elected I will be looking to you for your help with this. I will ask that you contact me personally and provide me with the location and I will investigate and we can work together to determine how best to correct the problem.
Integrity at City Hall
Reading the critical media reports and audits done by independent firms regarding the activities of our City Council members and senior civic administrators over the last few years, I am left to ask "how on earth could this have happened". Cost overruns on construction projects amounting to tens of millions of dollars, senior officials being hired for positions they may not be qualified for, a fire hall being built on property not even owned by the city, questionable relationships between City Hall and local land developers - the list seems endless. As a citizen and tax payer I am angry and embarrassed by this and the smug attitude of our current City Council. These people were sent to city hall to act in the best interest of Winnipegger’s, but I really don't believe they brought their "A" game.
If elected, I promise you I will represent you with integrity and I will not allow any influence to sway me from that position. I will not sit as part of the Executive Policy Committee (EPC), should it continue in its current form. If asked to consider joining EPC, I will only agree to do so if supported by all council members and not just because the Mayor placed me there.
If elected I will not participate in any secret meetings, discussions or decisions. There is no place for secrecy within a democratically elected and publically funded body.
Responsible Spending
I have worked in government purchasing for many years and have learned a thing or two about saving a dollar. The spending habits of City Council have been allowed to take on a life of their own and this must stop. If elected I will make it my business to stick my nose where administration officials feel I don't belong and ask the question they would prefer not be asked. Under the current procurement structure these officials have authority to make decisions on major purchases and construction and I believe that policy is not right and must be challenged. City council members were elected to oversee all aspects of city operation, including purchasing.
Changing Population
About 1/3 of St. Charles residents are seniors and that number continues to grow. Many have lived in this area of Winnipeg for most of their lives and having to move out of St. Charles to find adequate housing can cause many challenges. If elected I will make efforts to encourage developers to add more senior friendly housing choices to our area of the city.
Reconnecting St. Charles With City Hall
I believe there is a serious disconnect between the citizens of St. Charles and the members of City Council. Again, that is not acceptable. If elected I will put a communication plan in place and schedule regular community meetings where we can discuss what we are doing well in St. Charles and what still needs to be done. As well, I commit to being available to you to discuss your concerns one on one. I'm a big supporter of not just identifying problems, but also presenting ideas on how to correct them, so I will be asking for your help with this and we will work together to make things right.
Emergency Services
The men and women working with our emergency services have a challenging job to do. If elected I will push to see that Winnipeg Police Service and Fire and Paramedic Service have the resources, tools and support needed to get their job done.
