Winnipeg Election 2018

Nikolas Joyal - St. Norbert - Seine River

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

I decided to run for two reasons: The first is that I do not feel like city council has a voice that represent the 18-25 demographic. This is the demographic that will inherit the city, and will be paying for decisions made now far into the future. Given that this age group has different views, goals, and priorities compared to previous generations it is important that their voice is represented. The second reason is that I am hoping to show members of this demographic that they do not have to wait until they are older to have a voice in how the city is run. This age group (my age group) does not have the same level of turnout or engagement as other demographics. By showing that someone of that age is running and involved, hopefully they will be inspired to take a greater interest, whether they are in my ward or not.

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

While I do not have experience in the traditional sense, I believe that this is a benefit as I will not come into the role of Councillor with assumptions of how things are done. Some assume that because of previous work or volunteer experience they will know how to do things better, only to find that working to run a city is very different. Instead, I believe my age will allow me to better connect with all age demographics, but specifically young voters. As someone who understands how young voters communicate, consume information, and the role social media plays in their lives, I will be a Councillor that can properly represent them. Also, as an avid cyclist and transit rider, I will be able to offer first hand observations on what does and does not work when it comes to improving safety, service, scheduling, etc.

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?

Broadly, I stand for issues that involve the long term growth of the city, specifically: public transit, active transportation, and new solutions to infrastructure problems. Things like Rapid Transit, continued development and expansion of the cycling network, and finding ways to move traffic around rather than through the city are important for the future of the city as it continues to grow. It is vital that the city find ways to become less car-dependent and sprawling, and instead look at ways to encourage densification. These issues are important to me because I will be paying for decision made now for the rest of my life, and the current way the city is growing is both costly and unsustainable.

Another major issue I will stand for is getting youth involved in civic politics, as they are the ones that will inherit the city. This is important to me because I am a youth, and the people that will be dealing with decisions should be consulted and have a voice in their city’s future.

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

I really like how involved community organizations are becoming in all areas of the ward. Despite having only been around for a few years, the River Park South Community Association and the Fort Richmond University Heights Neighbourhood Association have organised incredible community events, and have brought residents together. St. Norbert also has an incredible sense of community, plus the St Norbert Farmers Market and BIZ. While these groups are generally separate, I’m looking forward to finding ways to link them and bring the entire ward together

I also really appreciate the Lick’s Ice Cream is only a 5 minute walk from my house… It doesn’t get better than that.

Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

While much of my comments focus on youth voice and youth voter, I am ready to represent all voters. I urge voters to look beyond business and job experience and what boards and organizations candidates have been part of, and instead see which candidates have a vision for the future of the ward and the city, and has ideas on how to get there.

While I am a political studies student, I never planned to get into elected politics. I have no interest in using this position as a stepping stone to provincial or federal politics. I am running because I know that I can bring a new voice and a new set of ideas and priorities to city council.