February 2007
The October 2006 civic election has changed the political complexion of Winnipeg City Council. Winnipeg now has five undeclared Conservative councillors, four undeclared Liberal, four declared NDP and two (undeclared) maverick councillors.
The 2007 annual capital budget contains an unprecedented $424 million in spending. In keeping with Winnipeg Green Party policies, much of the spending is in accord with Plan Winnipeg’s thrust of maintaining existing infrastructure. However, instead of money for bus rapid transit, there is money, in the budget and five year forecast for suburban roads that support commuting and big box stores. As Ken Klassen pointed out on the floor of council on January 25,
“This is not a climate change budget. This is a get-in-your-car-and-drive budget.”
The 2007 budget also moves the city towards using public private partnerships for rehabilitating the Disraeli Bridge, widening McGillivray and constructing three police stations. The mayor and twelve councillors voted for the budget. Three NDP councillors voted against the budget. The pattern of Conservative and Liberal councillors voting with the mayor and giving him a distinct 12-4 majority on council seems likely to continue for the next three and a half years.
WGP members continue to monitor the progress of Olywest, Waverley West, the Chipman subdivision and the mayor’s Civic Environmental Committee.
Looking ahead
After the highly successful November public meeting, “Organizing for a Greener City”, WGP is moving right ahead with the next public meeting,
“Are Governments Addicted to Gambling Revenues? How the Citizens of Winkler said “No” to VLTs” and “Financial Counselling for Problem Gamblers”.
We are delighted to welcome speakers Martin Harder, Mayor of Winkler, and Shaelynn Turman, Community Financial Counselling Services.
Hope to see you 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 13 at the Red Road Lodge, 631 Main Street, Winnipeg.
Please mark Saturday, April 21 2007 on your calendars for the WGP’s first Annual General Meeting.
As always, your thoughts and comments on civic issues are welcome.
Regards,
Elizabeth Fleming
President
