Winnipeg Election 2018

Markus Chambers - St. Norbert - Seine River

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

I decided to run to ensure the needs of all residents and small business owners are heard at city council. As a 25-year resident of our neighbourhood, I have watched the new ward of St. Norbert-Seine River become one of the fastest-growing communities in the city. As a new, diverse and growing community, St. Norbert-Seine River deserves and needs a responsive, dedicated and hard-working councillor that will effectively assert and protect the ward’s interests at city council. I am passionate about our
community of St. Norbert-Seine River and will be a strong voice for the community as city councillor. Being on the door-step or meeting residents throughout the neighbourhood, has reconfirmed the decision I have made to run.  This process has been a rewarding and learning experience that has further prepared me to effectively be the voice of residents in my ward.

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

I have 29 years of experience working with government agencies and officials at all levels of government and through a variety of administrations. For the past 20 years, I have volunteered on several boards, including the Henteleff Park Foundation, and coached hockey and soccer for 15 years at Dakota Community Centre. These experiences allowed me to develop a strong bond with residents and a deep appreciation of their needs. I also possess strong policy development skills, exceptional leadership skills, and negotiation, organizational and communication skills. I have an innate ability to build relationships with people of all ages and backgrounds, which is critical to be an effective councillor.  Of the skills I possess, my listening skills with an open mind will greatly compliment my role as a city councillor. My intent is listen, learn and provide common a sense approach and not political approach to the every day situations that impacts families.

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?

The number one priority identified through campaigning is roads and infrastructure, which includes road renewal and repairs, timely and effective snow clearing of streets, sidewalks and lanes, and speed zones on community streets. Residents have stated that snow-filled walking paths are a threat to school age children’s safety and result in isolation for our seniors. Lanes that are blocked due to snow accumulation have led to serious accidents occurring in our community that were avoidable. Similarly, the city has identified roadway construction and maintenance as a number one priority and invested $116 million
in 2018 to fixing our roads. I want to stand on the issues that residents have identified and are important to the community and not just to me.

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

It’s a very welcoming community with a healthy mix of new families, established community residents, vibrant seniors and the emergence of several new small businesses and services. As the community continues to grow, I have witnessed River Park South’s ability to accept and celebrate diversity and inclusion. Programming at the local community club includes a wide variety of sports and activities for many interests as well as age and accessibility needs. These are signs we’re moving in the right direction to allow the next generation to respect and invest in their community and feel a sense of belonging and inclusion.

Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

I have travelled to over 45 countries throughout the world and become acquainted with a variety of people, places, and cultures. I have found that at the core of any culture is a sense of community, belonging and respectful interactions. As Winnipeggers, we should be proud of the diverse communities we have built.  Internationally, I can attest that Canada is a popular brand, and I personally have been proud to promote this great city and will be prouder still to serve as city councillor to assert and protect our community’s best interests.