Winnipeg Election 2018

Kurt Morton - St. James

Why did you decide to run in the 2018 (Winnipeg Civic Election / School Board Election)?

I’m running for three main reasons:

1. To bring a longer term city-building vision to council
2. To bridge the gap between council, upper administration, and frontline city workers
3. To represent everyone in St. James in a collaborative and progressive manner

What experience will you bring to complement your role as (Mayor / Councillor / School Trustee)?

As a city employee, I’m well aware of the internal problems the city faces: a top-down management structure that removes accountability. I want to make our city’s workforce more open and collaborative, ensuring employees at all levels are able to have their voices heard, and to work with our civic unions in a positive manner rather than a adversarial one.

I have strong leadership skills and the ability to make sure everyone has their voices heard and respected.

What are some issues that you would like to stand for in your role as (Mayor / Councillor / School Trustee), and why are these issues important to you?

Two huge issues the city is currently facing that are important to me are recreation and transit. Our transit system has not properly grown with our population, and is becoming more unreliable as Winnipeg continues to grow. If elected, I will work to implement a frequent transit network, which would increase ridership through making transit more dependable.

Recreation is key to improving mental and physical health, and works as a long-term method to reduce crime. Our city’s recreation facilities are falling apart and need to be rebuilt. I’ve committed to ensuring the St. James Civic Centre renovation is done right by including the pool in the initial renovation.

What is something that you appreciate about the (City of Winnipeg / the ward / the school ward or school division) you wish to represent?

St. James is an amazing community composed of beautiful neighborhoods with lots of character. My time doorknocking during this election has shown me that everyone is down to earth, friendly, and respectful.

Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

I’m one of the youngest people running for council, and feel that it’s a strength, not a weakness. It’s proof that I’m in it for the long run, and care about our city’s long term future and financial health. I’m running because I care deeply about our city and want to make it a better place.