Assessment changes are needed for Transit Plus Services (Oct. 24 2024)

I put forward a motion a motion for the City of Winnipeg to review our assessable standards for transit plus service to insure we are meeting the needs of service for our users.  We need to insure we are also make sure that our Transit Plus policies reflect the changing professional standards in regards to assessment for service delivery.  I also wanted to insure that city staff are consulting the organizations that advocate for people with disabilities that require are services.  We have heard from the community that these assessments are not complying within the ethical standards in which our professionals that assess individuals requirement for service. 

Bring Back the Core Area Initiative

I put forward a motion for council bring back the core area initiative which has investment of all levels of government into the inner-city communities to work at improving the physical, social, and economic barriers within disadvantaged areas will strengthen the economic growth of the entire city and align with Council’s Strategic Priorities Action Plan.  The Objective is to identify the gaps in the service needed to meet the core objectives outlined above.  The work we would be doing would align with Council’s Strategic Priorities Action Plan and would help identify the commitment of all levels of government to stabilize a community that has challenges around safety, cleanliness and older housing stock with a lot of vacant and derelict buildings and lots.  The community has less disposable income to provide the extracurricular activities to provide opportunities for our children to learn their natural gifts and talents and provide the space to grow in a safe and caring environment.  We know that youth crime has gone up and our children will find places to belong and we can provide those outlets are they will find that with gangs.  If we rally want to be proactive instead of reactive we need to invest in communities that need the support. 

"Future Leaders" Celebrating at the Mayor's Ball 150

By Cindy Gilroy, City Councillor, Daniel McIntyre Ward

The Mayor's Ball 150 was nothing short of magical, filled with moments of excitement, connection, and pride as we celebrated Winnipeg’s vibrant history. What made the evening even more special for me was the opportunity to invite some extraordinary young people from the Spence Neighbourhood Association as my honoured guests. Sharing this experience with them was a reminder of the power of hope, inspiration, and dreams.

From the moment we arrived, their excitement was contagious. Wide-eyed and eager, these young leaders of tomorrow immersed themselves in the energy of the evening, taking in the sights, sounds, and glamour of the event. Watching them experience the Ball through fresh eyes was a gift in itself. They had the chance to meet some of their heroes, including Mayor Scott Gillingham, and their faces lit up as they collected autographs—treasured memories they’ll hold onto for a lifetime. A particularly heartwarming moment was when the group had the opportunity to meet Chad Posthumus, player #33 from the Winnipeg Sea Bears. Seeing the awe and admiration in their expressions as they interacted with him was a true highlight. They asked thoughtful questions, shared their dreams, and were thrilled to meet someone they look up to. Chad’s kindness and willingness to connect with these young people left a lasting impact. Throughout the evening, the youth mingled with city leaders, taking pride in meeting individuals who work hard every day to make Winnipeg better. It was a joy to watch them gain confidence as they navigated conversations with our city’s decision-makers, realizing they too belong in these spaces.

I was honoured to offer them this experience, which I know will stay with them for years. Moments like these remind us how important it is to foster opportunities for young people—showing them that their voices matter and their dreams are valid.

The Mayor's Ball 150 was not just an event to raise funds and awareness for the Arts, but a

celebration of possibility and community. I look forward to continuing to create experiences like this, where we come together to inspire the next generation of leaders. After all, these bright young minds are not only the future of Winnipeg—they are its heartbeat today.