Future Large Land Development Beside Kenaston?

Thanks to Anybody Wants Peanut for noticing this development on the part of Manitoba Hydro. See above for the dimensions.

This is what the land looks like now:



This is looking west from Kenaston Boulevard.



This is looking north from Kenaston Boulevard.



Looking west from Lorimer Boulevard.

This land is immediately beside the expanded Kenaston Boulevard and Sterling Lyon intersection. Of course this is where IKEA will be in two years.

The CN land is now for sale. Any idea what should go there? How about a HUGE casino!

Charleswood-Tuxedo Candidates Debate

One of the only candidates debates where most of the Charleswood-Tuxedo candidates will be in attendance is being held at the Charleswood United Church.

The debate is between 7 and 9 PM on October 13, Wednesday. The location is 4820 Robin Boulevard.

The only candidate who won't be in attendance is Dashi Zargani.

Charleswood-Tuxedo Candidate Steve Szego

Questions for the candidates for Charleswood-Tuxedo Ward

Question 1: What is your name? Steve Szego

Question 2: What is your profession? I am currently “retired”

Question 3: How old are you? 44

Question 4: Can you tell us about your family? I have a wife and 2 daughters

Question 5: Why are you running in Charleswood-Tuxedo? The time is now to give back to the community. I believe I have a
lot to offer and have a tireless work ethic especially when it comes to something that I am passionate about- Charleswood/Tuxedo/Whyte Ridge

Question 6: How long have you lived in the ward? 40 years

Question 7: Have you had any past political affiliations in provincial or federal politics? No. And I do not believe it
has a place in civic politics.

Question 8: Who did you vote for in the last civic election both for mayor and councillor and why? How would you rate the last council and mayor? I voted for Bill Clement. As a candidate,I do not wish to answer who I voted for as mayor as I will be capable of working with either one. I believe the time for change is now as some council members need to be challenged. They did a good job for the most part, but there is always room for improvement, just like if I am successful in my bid, I would always push myself to be better. Bill,
because he represented a lot of what I believe in.

Question 9: Do you feel your political views are left, center or right? Right, with a smidgeon of left if that’s possible. How would you describe your political views? I always seek accountability. Do not make promises you can’t keep, do
what’s best for the majority. Pretty basic stuff. It is a democracy after all.

Question 10: What do you think are the major issues for the city of Winnipeg? Street repair downtown development and crime.

Question 11: What do you think are the major issues for the ward of Charleswood-Tuxedo? Traffic safety and lack of affordable housing/ 55 plus development. The Kapyong issue, although very contentious, is still in the hands of the courts. After the feds deal with it, the province will then
step in and finally the city. By the time we have our say, it will be a long time.

Question 12: Do you support a continued tax freeze or do you believe that taxes should go up to re-build infrastructure and support programs? Only as a last resort. I would sooner see the school tax taken off property and an elimination of the business tax. More thought has to be put into raising revenue first.

Question 13: Do you support cuts in the city of Winnipeg budget? Where? No. We pay taxes and should get something for it. Budget reviews I would support. Maybe a different approach may be able to distribute the existing funds more appropriately.

Question 14: Do you support increases in the city of Winnipeg budget? Where? Yes, but after hard lobbying of the province. Especially for infrastructure, active transportation and street renewal.

Question 15: Do you support an increase, decrease or a freeze in the city budget for police officers? Do you believe we need more police officers? If so, would you support a tax increase for it? Yes and no. They need more more officers for the sake of numbers has to be reviewed. It could be a case of deployment and support to give them the tools they need. Crime is undeniably an issue. I would not raise taxes solely for it, but cannot answer until I have the benefit of the information.

Question 16: What is your view on crime in the city of Winnipeg and what can you as councillor do about it? Crime stats are not an accurate gauge. They can be skewered. We have an element in this city that is not unique to others in some aspects but I feel more programs for our youth is vital. You
don’t see too many 45 yr old males doing B/E’s or 30 yr olds stealing cars .As a councillor, I can only do something about the programs. Other things need entire council approval as you are aware.

Question 17: Do you support rapid bus transit or light rail transit? Do you have any other ideas for rapid transit? Do you believe Charleswood is well served for public transit? I think we need SOME SORT of rapid transit but I am not sold on either. I need more facts. I do believe that our transit system ranks up there with many other cities if not better and
it could simply be a case of frequency. Charleswood is under served, always has been. Whyte Ridge could definitely be better served, especially to and from the U of M. That is a concern of many of the seniors I have spoken with. The bus
isn’t bad, it’s just not often enough. Deployment may need to be revisited.

Question 18: Do you believe a city should fund a zoo? If yes or no, please indicate why. Would you support closing or selling the zoo or ending funding of the zoo?

Question 19: Do you believe a city should fund arts and culture? If yes or no, indicate why. Yes. There has to be a connection there. Arts and culture are important and they help define a city.

Question 20: Do you believe the fire department should have an increase, decrease or a freeze in their budget? Would you support a tax increase for the fire department? Yes, but only as a last resort.. Fire response times are excellent. I would rather see funding for EMS.

Question 21: Do you believe that roads, water and sewer should receive an increase, decrease or freeze in their budget? Would you support a tax increase for roads, water and sewer? Yes, and same answer for increase.


Question 22: Do you support the present hotel tax?

Question 23: Would you support the city of Winnipeg having a sales tax in addition to property tax? No. I would prefer PST increase and funds given to the city from that.

Question 24: Do you think Winnipeg should have a tax cut? If yes or no, explain why? No. A 13 year freeze is something to
be proud of,however taxes are eventually going to go up.. It’s inevitable, and 14 years of no increase would be great, so that will be hard enough to achieve..

Question 25: Do you believe that the present city of Winnipeg budget is adequate for the city of Winnipeg? If yes or no, explain why. I can’t comment on something I have not seen.

Question 25: Should education be funded through property tax or through general funds from the province? Province.

Question 26: Do you support term limits? Will you be serving a term limit even if there are no rules in place? How long will you serve? I support them but would like to serve as long as I am doing a good job. If the constituents vote me in consistently, than something must be right.

Question 26: Do you think housing should be allowed at The Forks? If yes or no, explain why. No. It is a tourist attraction. Waterfront Drive, however- absolutely.

Question 27: What changes (if any) should be done to upkeep our city parks and recreation programs? Encourage more participation.I’d like to see how much the city makes charging for pools. Every kid should be able to know how to swim.

Question 28: What do hope to see in the Kapyong Barracks along Kenaston? I hope to see development that will allow widening of Kenaston, enhance the existing area and provide a tax base for the city. Of course, until it is settled in federal courts, it is only a hope.

Question 29: Do you support a moratorium on development on old railway lines in favour of rapid transit and bike corridors? It would be nice to see some of it used, but the costs would
be very high.

Question 30: Do you support widening Kenaston to three lanes in each direction? SEE question 28

Question 31: Do you support the creation of service roads for any further shopping developments? Absolutely.I would also
like to see that as a must during the tender process before building can even take place.

Question 32: What is your view on city taxes going to build a stadium for the Blue Bombers and Manitoba Bisons? I am not
against loans. I am against not collecting on them.

Question 33: What is your view of a possible call for taxpayer help to expand the MTS Centre? Would you support it? Yes. It has proven to help put/keep Winnipeg on the map as one of the biggest venues to attract entertainment. The same rules as the stadium would likely have to apply though depending on how much.

Question 34: What do you believe the city should do to ensure a vital downtown? Do you believe it is important as a councillor to support it? I believe downtown development is
vital and integral. The business tax should be reduced as well and hopefully eliminated to help stimulate downtown growth. It is very important for a councillor to support downtown revitalization.

Question 35: Do you believe that some city service should be privatized? What services (if any) would be candidates for it? If private companies can prove to be more productive and cost beneficial then they should maybe have the chance to at least bid. The city should be able to match any offers though.

1290 Sports Radio

It has been on a couple of weeks since CFRW has made the format change from all oldies to sports radio.

Their webpage has not been updated beyond showing the new logo and having an audio stream available. I know that their Sundays and Mondays feature NFL games. However, what games are those?

During the day they have the syndicated “Mike and Mike in the Morning” show with Mike Golic and Mike Greenberg from 5 to 9 a.m but the Jim Rome show I'm not quite sure what time it runs.

In fact, I don't have a clue what their schedule is and I don't know how much local content they have. Considering that CTV runs this show, I figure it is a little bush league. This is a ratings period and all the station has is a bare bones homepage?

Meanwhile, I don't know where Don Percy has ended up. His relationship with radio in Winnipeg is on hiatus after so many decades. When CFRW ended, he was let go.

For the time being, I don't think CJOB has anything to worry about when it comes to listener-ship or sports coverage.

If 1290 Sports Radio ever does get its act together it might do well but so far it is not exactly putting the effort in to let people know what is on their station.

I'm Backing Up

Continued Pushback From Bike Groups

The Free Press has seen the pushback from those in the bike interest groups. On Saturday, an article by Anders Swanson from One Green City was published.

In the article, he wrote:

Traffic-calming circles may be new to Winnipeg, but not to other cities. They are very popular, especially for local residents. Emergency vehicles aren't going to be left stranded. Engineers generally don't design things that don't work -- it's not in their nature. Some designs may need fine-tuning upon completion, but they can be revisited. Property values on the routes will go up, not down.

The problem is that traffic circles and bike paths are not compatible according to studies in the U.K. I have shown this in my previous post.

I am open to see any study that says mini-traffic circles are safe for cyclists if they can be produced. They may be good for cars but I am not convinced they are for bikes. There is some evidence they aren't that great for pedestrians either. Certainly the studies in Britain has a lot to say about mini-roundabouts.

On the One Green City website, they say:

On-road Bikeways are established on the safest streets for
bicycling. Delineated and permanent, they are best situated on low-volume residential streets running parallel to arterial thoroughfares. When combined with traffic calming, they are the most attractive on-road routes for new users. These streets are ideal choices, as the immediate residents are most likely to welcome traffic calming and the establishment of a bikeway as it raises property value - discouraging through-traffic usage of their street and creating a family-friendly area. Regular bike lanes are particularly necessary on certain collector and arterial streets given their high traffic volumes and because these are often the only streets crossing waterways and railway lines. In general, on-road routes are the least expensive addition to the route network as they take utmost advantage of existing concrete/asphalt.

I don't know that Grosvenor Avenue counts as a low-volume street. It is a bus route. I certainly know that Sherbrook Street is not a low-volume street.



I don't have traffic volume numbers for Grosvenor Avenue but it can get pretty busy.

Sherbook Street numbers are definitely not low-volume:



Anders Swanson has said he is not anti-car but he is also an advocate for ending car travel on Albert Street.

In 2007, Swanson led a group of like-minded Albert Street business owners lobbying to turn the short block into a permanent pedestrian mall, something like Ottawa's famous Sparks Street Mall. The proposal, which Swanson said was unanimously supported by Albert Street businesses between Bannatyne and McDermot, ended up percolating through city hall, where it eventually "fell into a black hole," he chuckles.

The record on pedestrian only malls is a decidedly a mixed one.

The fact that Albert is an important area for accessing a parkade and businesses in the surrounding area has probably not been lost on city officials.

Bike interest groups do have a legitimate demand that it is in the interest that the city of Winnipeg should have safe and effective routes for cyclists.

However, closing streets, ending parking for organizations and constructing ineffective mini-traffic circles does not make cycling safer nor does it endear residents to the bike groups.

If anything bike organizations should be upset with the city for involving them in this poor planning that has resulted in conflict.

The safest routes for bikes will continue to be dedicated paths.

In terms of east/west traffic in River Heights, I wonder why the center of Corydon Avenue is not considered. While there are trees in the median, many have been dying as a result of disease and salt contamination during winter. In any event, the median is wide enough for bikes to pass between the trees on the left or right side.



It is just a thought about how this might work from Kenaston Street to Cambridge Street but the median would be safe enough. Each intersection would pose challenges but would they be worse than travelling in the curb lane along Corydon?

The best choice is still probably the Burlington Northern line north and south and then along the CN Rail line south of Wilkes Avenue.

However, I am not an engineer nor do I know the thoughts and minds of the rail lines, businesses or residents to say whether any of these choices are a good idea.

What I know is that studies say that mini-traffic circles are not great for bikes yet many cyclist interest groups believe they are. I would like to see the studies that indicate that.



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Cyclists and the Safety of Roundabouts

A Winnipeg Sun has come out in support of the mini-traffic circles.

The circles and “bikeways” will almost surely make the city not only better for cycling, and bring a so-called “cleaner and greener” urban landscape, but give a somewhat easier ride to many motorists tired of jostling with bicycle-riders for road space.

“It is going to take a little bit of adjustment at the beginning. But once everything is there, people will see the overall benefit of having these measures that we’ve taken,” says Luis Escobar, the city’s transportation manager.

“The overall purpose of a traffic circle is to make sure motorists aren’t driving too fast for the area. The people walking and cycling will feel a little less intimidated.”

But are they really safer for cyclists?

A number of British studies studies say no.

While cyclists are vulnerable at roundabouts, this is true of most forms of non signal junction control. The use of outward crossfalls on circulating carriageways and relatively narrow lanes on the approaches to mini-roundabouts all help cyclists to be part of the traffic rather than obstructions that "get in the way". For mini-roundabouts in particular, the repeated failure at many sites of drivers to appreciate the presence of the roundabout in the first place put circulating cyclists in great danger - ensure your designs get ALL drivers out of "auto-pilot".

From a German study:

The study found that bicyclists' risk is high in all such intersections, but it is much higher when the junction has a marked bicycle lane or sidepath around its outside...

There is no marked path in the roundabouts on Grosvenor Avenue. However, the curb bump outs force cyclists into the middle of the circle and all studies shown indicate there is danger for the the bikes.

However, do some of the bike advocates seem to care about this?

Residential roundabouts are not uncommon on any old street but are heavily used on bike routes. They very successfully slow down cars and also provide a seamless, quick and safe intersection for bikes to cross. I find they also discourage drivers from using the route since they’re forced to slow down keeping these streets quiet.

So the objective for some is to force cars to go elsewhere?

This bike advocate doesn't seem to realize the studies show that roundabouts are not safer for cyclists. He is of the opinion that it will drive automobiles away.

It is a pretty aggressive stance.

Whoever thought that combining bike paths and traffic roundabouts into one surely did not read the available data on the subject.



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We Gon Find You

The actual news report.



The song of the report.



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CBC's Bike Story

The CBC's report on active transportation was supplied in large part by Bike to the Future who indicated that drivers are taking their anger out on bikes.

I see this as pushback to try and gain sympathy for the bike lobby. I certainly have concern for bikes who may have had close calls but I am less sympathetic to some in the bike lobby who were intimately involved in the planning of the pathways being constructed now. While some of the paths are safe and effective transportation routes, there are several that put bikes, pedestrians and drivers in conflict.

The CBC takes the angle that bikes have been the recipients of anger without looking into the anger some on bikes have to people in cars.

A few times over the years, I have had to drive down Wellington Crescent to pick-up or drop off someone who lived on the street on a Sunday. On a few occasions, I have been yelled at by people on bikes even though I was driving at a Sunday driver pace. It has been a number of years since I have had to drive someone on this route but I have heard more than once about aggressive cyclists confronting residents who are trying to get to their homes. On numerous occasions I have seen the barricades on Sunday placed over the entire road which I have been told is done by some cyclists to block all road traffic despite the signs that say local traffic of residents is allowed.

It is very belligerent behaviour on the part of some. CBC would do well to ask people who lived on the Wellington Crescent about what they have had to face since the 1970s.

It isn't like aggressive actions of bikes have not been recorded in Canada. Ontario's former Attorney-General was attacked and in terror for his life fled someone on a bike who was after him. That clash resulted in the cyclist being killed. All charges dropped against the former AG were dropped after witness accounts and video of the incident was reviewed.

There is no excuse for not giving bikes room on the street. However, the bike lobby should take responsibility for some of the conflicts that their involvement in the planning of these routes has caused. I don't know that it is possible to honestly say that the existence of white stripes on Winnipeg roads will provide a safe zone for bikes. They barely create safe zones for cars.

The safest routes for bikes to take are ones that are dedicated to bikes and pedestrians. This shouldn't be done by throwing residents, businesses and organizations like churches under the bus by taking away access to their homes, their parking or cutting their trees down.

My personal opinion remains that the conflict on Assiniboine Avenue could have been avoided if the city had looked more carefully at using the center median of Broadway Avenue. Likewise, I think in River Heights, the city could have used the center of Wellington Crescent or if residents approved, they could have converted the north sidewalk of Grosvenor Avenue to bike path and the south side to pedestrian path.

I don't know if there is a solution for Berry Street. However, when I look at the picture of the street:



I wonder if it was possible to do something different than shave off 1.5 metres of boulevard on each side of a narrow street? Was it possible to just make the sidewalks slightly larger and place stripes down to separate the pedestrians and bikes (they seem to co-exist most of the time along the Assiniboine Park routes). It certainly might have been an idea to bounce off residents.

The CBC should have looked a little bit farther than cyclists being victims of selfish or oblivious drivers. Much of the conflict now is because the main bike lobbies were driven to get their paths in without thinking of the consequences.



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Selinger Goes Negative

There has been increasing signs of the NDP lashing out and getting angry about where they are in the polls. I suppose the people in Greg Selinger's office believe that angry accusations and a campaign of fear will help close the gap with the provincial Tories.

After 10 years, political parties usually outlast their welcome. The same old shtick that worked in the past stops being very effective. In fact, people start looking for alternatives.

Selinger had two ways to go when he became leader. The first was to say he was the continuation of everything that Gary Doer was and did. The other thing he could have done was say that he was taking the party and the province in a new direction in keeping with the times.

It would appear that he has gone with a continuation of Doer. In that light, he pales.

Even though the economy has not done as badly as elsewhere, people in the province of Manitoba are looking for confidence, innovation and vision. Instead, they are seeing fear and loathing.

I expect things to get nastier and it could help a bit in the polls for the NDP but I don't know that it will be enough to win yet another majority.

People in Manitoba are looking for more.



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Under Pressure

This is a performance. The man is not homeless. It is to draw attention to the homeless.



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River Heights-Active Transportation Part 6

The crossing along the old CN line for bikes. The small section from Centennial Street to the lane now has a no parking sign.



The no parking sign on Grosvenor Avenue from Beaverbrook Street.



Grosvenor Avenue from Beaverbrook Street to the old CN line. White bike lanes are up on north and south sides. Church goers used to park in this section and were ticketed this past Sunday. Looks like no parking will continue.



The sign post where the no parking sign was put up in front of Westworth Church. The post is still there. No one has heard from the mayor's office that the church will keep its parking. Does the sign go back up and soon as the election is over?



Close-up of the white paint markings in front of Westworth Church. Is this project going to proceed regardless in pursuit of federal dollars?



Notice the white paint guidelines in front of Westworth Church between Beaverbrook Street and Lanark Street. This was supposed to be painted on Monday, October 4. I saw city trucks looking at site in the last days. Does this section have to be done for federal funds to kick in?



Westworth Church people used to be able to park from Lanark Street to the lane with no restriction. That has ended as of last week.



Looking west from the traffic circle at Lanark Street. Notice the white bike line lanes stripes that have been painted as of Monday. The Burlington Northern line is closed in background for a few days for re-hab work.

Update: John Orlikow has stated that parking will be re-instated in the section where the white stripes have been painted.

I will update as more information comes in.

One thing I have heard is that the white stripe bike lanes will indeed remain and might in fact be painted in front of the church. However, parking will be maintained.

I guess we will see what happens. One promise was already broken on not targeting the church.



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DJ Kitty

And just because this cat looks a little like mine, I am putting this up.



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River Heights-Active Transportation Part 5

Grosvenor Avenue from the lane behind Centennial Street. Westworth Church people sometimes park as far as this point to go to the church (the left side of the picture is where parking is allowed). For events like a rummage sale or tea, the entire street can be filled. By all accounts the small section from Centennial to the lane still has parking allowed. The section from Centennial to Beaverbrook Street appears to be no parking.



Grosvenor Avenue looking back from Centennial Street. Stripes have no been painted on this section as of Monday where people received parking tickets.

I haven't heard back from Olikow's office since speaking to the assistant this morning. The area where people received tickets west of Beaverbrook Street now has stripes painted on it indicating it is part of the bike path. A no parking sign is in place there.

The area between Beaverbrook Street and Lanark Street which is the block where Westworth Street is has no stripes on it and the no parking sign is gone but the post where the sign was hung remains. There is stripe markings on the road indicating that it was supposed to be painted along with the rest of Grosvenor this Monday.

I will have to take an actual picture of it because people are going to have a hard time believing the set-up. The bike path strip runs the length of Grosvenor to Lanark Street and then re-starts on Beaverbrook Street.

The church looks to lose the parking from Beaverbrook west to Centennial Street. Not sure how many slots that is but figure several or more. There are more spots west of Centennial that appear to still allow parking.

If this sounds confusing, it is. The no parking restrictions on Grosvenor run all the way from Cambridge Street to Lanark and then stops for a block and then resumes at Beaverbrook and stops the very next street.

Here's an idea: Allow parking all the way from Lanark Street to the CN line. The bike path, the church and traffic in the area can co-exist. Don't try and kill the church by ending parking that they have had since the 1950s.

Edit: I just checked this Tuesday morning and there are no parking signs from Centennial Street to the lane. Took lots of pictures and will put them up this afternoon.



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River Heights-Active Transportation Part 4

CTV's new story on Harrow and Academy active transportation barricade.

Update: John Orlikow's office contacted me this morning. They are talking to the Parking Authority today. I'll hear more later on but let's hope that the church will stop being targeted by the Parking Authority.

The Winnipeg Free Press had a story today on the whole issue. I am quoted in the article although I should emphasize, I am not a spokesman for the church. I had informed some in the church about the potential problems I saw with the active transportation route. However, I don't think anyone would have dreamed it could result in the church being targeted as it is now.

The Great Canadian Talk Show has an extensive article on their web page about what has been happening with active transportation and River Heights is featured in the discussion. Sam Katz is one of the featured interviews starting at 4 pm on the radio show. I will have to catch it later on as I am working right when it happens. However, people can tune in on their radios at 92.9 FM or on their TVs if they have MTS TV. It is Red River College channel 724.

Let's hope the mayor doesn't just blame councillors for the problems of active transportation. It is obvious he has the power to stop projects when he wants to.



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River Heights-Active Transportation Part 3

Grosvenor, looking west from Beaverbook Street. The old CN Rail line is in the distance. This is not a through-street. Westworth United Church has used this section for parking since the 1950s.

Well, parking tickets were indeed issue at Westworth United Church this Sunday after assurances that they wouldn't be. Hard to say what the total number of church goers who were ticketed but on the street west of Beaverbrook, there is room for around 15 cars.

The terms "mean spirited" were used. Anger of the rawest kind is being expressed and fear that the church's viability is being threatened by being targeted by Parking Authority vehicles.

The mayor has given no response to this issue. The councillor of the area has had their assistant look into this but now things have gone well beyond looking in to. The tickets should be quashed and a definitive statement made about parking around the church.

If the city's goal is to drive the church out of the neighbourhood, they should please say so.

On Sunday there was a bike group along Grosvenor that the media was covering. I'd be curious if a vigilant Parking Authority was ticketing everything they could find on the street.

People at the church, who are mostly genial and forgiving, would like to have someone turfed for this. They have been talking about elected official and the bureaucrats being responsible.

Sam Katz: Is anyone at your office dealing with this? Why have you not gotten back to the church on this issue?



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A New Owner For TruServ

Truserv head office and warehouse at Gamble and McGillivray.

I was a bit concerned and still am about the announcement of Rona buying the TruServ of Winnipeg this week. The company flies under the radar as the main supplier for True Value, V&S and Country Depot stores.

Back in the 1990s, the forerunner to TruServ, Macleod-Stedman ran into a downturn that saw its employment drop from a few hundred to a skeleton crew. There was great debate in the Manitoba Legislature with the NDP's Gary Doer questioning the Progressive Conservative Premier Gary Filmon about the merits of the bail-out plan.

Cotter Canada took over the company with help of the government in 1992 and in 1999, the name was changed to TruServ. In 2001, the company became a 100% Canadian member-owned distribution center after decades of American ownership. In 2006, the company changed to a share structure which set up this purchase by Rona today.

Presently, the company has about 350 employees and runs a fairly streamlined head office. It is an important employer for the city and if nothing else, has shown the wisdom in backing the company in the 1990s.

I have no idea how Rona benefits from owning the company or whether they keep the management team based in Winnipeg.

A smart provincial government should be asking the company what they need to expand for both Truserv and Rona in Manitoba.



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Charleswood-Tuxedo Candidate Timothy Martin

I will update this when the candidate sends in the rest.

Questions for the candidates for Charleswood-Tuxedo Ward

John, I apologize for the delay in returning this question and answer. It is an excellent idea, but one that has caught on quite successfully, and I have received (too) many requests from diverse groups for statements on positions that affect their members. I would like to take more time and get back to you with more of the questions completed, so at this time I turn this into you not fully completed.
You had a question about in what capacity I have appeared before municipal councils and city community committees. I have appeared before them as paid legal counsel representing land owners on issues varying from zoning variances to subdivisions. I also once appeared on my own behalf, to successfully fight a zoning variance that would have allowed commercial signage near Alcrest and Roblin Boulevard on the North side. It probably wouldn’t have gone through anyways, but we spoke out against it. I strongly believe in preserving the green, residential nature of Charleswood (wherever practical), and opposing commercial sprawl.

Question 1: What is your name? Timothy (Tim) Martin

Question 2: What is your profession? Lawyer (solicitor). My practice mostly relates to real estate and small business work, although I do some wills and estate work as well. I seldom appear in court.

Question 3: How old are you? 46

Question 4: Can you tell us about your family? We moved to Charleswood in 1964 (the year I was born). Both of my parents were country school teachers, who moved to Winnipeg to take teaching positions. I am married and have two wonderful step-daughters, who are now attending university.

Question 5: Why are you running in Charleswood-Tuxedo? We are in a new era of increasing complexity and demands on our councillors. I see the need for someone rooted in the community, knowledgeable and enthusiastic to step up to the job, but wonder if that alone is enough. With the increasing complexity of civic matters -complex public private partnership agreements for instance- we need someone who will do the due diligence for the citizens before binding them to agreements that will last for decades to come. I want to combine my love of our community with my professional experience as a lawyer and make a contribution back.

Question 6: How long have you lived in the ward? 46 years

Question 7: Have you had any past political affiliations in provincial or federal politics? no

Question 8: Who did you vote for in the last civic election both for mayor and councillor and why? How would you rate the last council and mayor? I voted for Bill Clement and Sam Katz. Bill Clement did an excellent job, and made decisions that pleased the majority of our ward, as evidenced by his lengthy tenure. His record for returning calls and giving straight answers is to be admired. Sam Katz seems to be running into the same pitfalls as many populist politicians, we like the song he’s singing, but actually accomplishing all of his goals is proving to be a challenge. Eliminating business taxes comes to mind. I keep an open mind, but would like to hear more about the details and rationale that go into some of the more controversial high profile decisions being made. Veolia and light rail based rapid transit for instance. Overall though, I see Sam Katz as taking us in the right direction.

Question 9: Do you feel your political views are left, center or right? How would you describe your political views? I believe in fiscal responsibility and seeking good value for my tax dollar. I suppose that would make me a fiscal conservative. I believe it is important to carefully discern between the mandate of the City and the Province, and not to attempt to duplicate services that are the Province’s role. We can’t be all things to everyone on revenue raised from property taxes. To get our house in order, we need to concentrate on the basics of providing infrastructure and attracting residential and commercial development to build our revenue base.

Question 10: What do you think are the major issues for the city of Winnipeg? Planning, resource allocation, accountability and transparency, crime reduction, low cost housing.

Question 11: What do you think are the major issues for the ward of Charleswood-Tuxedo? Roads, traffic, taxes and law enforcement and affordable housing.

Question 12: Do you support a continued tax freeze or do you believe that taxes should go up to re-build infrastructure and support programs? The City of Winnipeg, like most major cities, has a serious shortfall between property tax revenue and infrastructure and service costs. Look at one major issue, like replacing the combined sewer and storm drains, and the estimated cost of in excess of $400 million. That’s just one project that could eat up our entire property tax revenue in one year. Clearly, we need to take a serious look at whether increasing property taxes is our only alternative. Property taxes are too narrow of a base of income to truly fund our needs. Reasonable property taxes attract investment in our city and build our revenue base. I believe we should keep property taxes low to attract investment and infill housing, and seek increased funding from alternative sources that draw from a larger base. As well, we have to continue to look for increased efficiency and cut waste.

Question 13: Do you support cuts in the city of Winnipeg budget? Where? It would be reckless to advocate cuts without having clear evidence of specific areas of waste. I do think we need to be vigilant about improving efficiency, and I wouldn’t be afraid to make cuts if it made sense.

Question 14: Do you support increases in the city of Winnipeg budget? Where? Roads, infrastructure and crime prevention strategies rank high on my priorities. Our biggest issue in this ward is getting services commensurate with the level of taxes we pay. As for police presence, the squeaky wheel gets the oil, and we seldom see a patrol car here, aside from a speed trap. That’s something I want to see change.

Question 15: Do you support an increase, decrease or a freeze in the city budget for police officers? Do you believe we need more police officers? If so, would you support a tax increase for it? I want to see more police presence on our streets, and I can’t see how that can be accomplished for free, not unless you can find a way to free up police officers administrative time.

Question 16: What is your view on crime in the city of Winnipeg and what can you as councillor do about it? I believe in the Community Policing model. I am trying to get Neighbourhood Watch established on our street. I see policing as just one tool of many in a strategy to deal with crime. Any true strategy must also address many of the root issues such as gang recruitment and social services. I do not believe that the City should bear the burden of financing the entire cost of the needed social support. We can barely manage our primary mandate to build supporting infrastructure. The Province, with its much larger stream of income should fund the vast majority of such programs.

Question 17: Do you support rapid bus transit or light rail transit? Do you have any other ideas for rapid transit? Do you believe Charleswood is well served for public transit? I find the reasoning behind the Rapid Transit Taskforce Study sound, and agree with the conclusion that a bus based rapid transit system best suites Winnipeg at this time and for years to come. I am however open minded to review any new information on the subject, and recognize that a rail based system has the advantage of an enhanced public perception and increasing property values around stations. I believe through public education, a bus based system can be shown to be equally attractive. As well, I like the made in Manitoba solution of using buses. I rode the bus for many years to University, and for me the biggest issues were winter comfort while waiting for the bus, and predictability of bus service. A full fledged bus based rapid transit system would address these concerns through having proper bus stations and real time display of arrival times.

Question 18: Do you believe a city should fund a zoo? If yes or no, please indicate why. Would you support closing or selling the zoo or ending funding of the zoo? The zoo is an asset and should be continued. I’ve been going to the zoo off and on for probably 40 years. I’ve never been overly impressed with the concessions, and I’m surprised they can’t make a better go of it, and contribute some revenue. I am against selling off any of the zoo property, once gone we will never get it back.

Question 19: Do you believe a city should fund arts and culture? If yes or no, indicate why. As in life, everything is about balance. One man wants to see a hockey or football game, another an art gallery (or the zoo!). I can’t see how we can fund one, and not the other. The level of funding would be a matter of serious consideration, given our current infrastructure deficit, and any opportunity to leverage public money by seeding a potentially commercially successful venture would seem smart to me.

Question 20: Do you believe the fire department should have an increase, decrease or a freeze in their budget? Would you support a tax increase for the fire department? I’m not in favour of property tax increases, and believe we need to look elsewhere to balance our budget and do what needs to be done. I see a new firehall is already on the books for Charleswood, and that is great to hear. As the city continues to develop new neighbourhoods, we have to ensure that we provide adequate fire and emergency services to them.

Question 21: Do you believe that roads, water and sewer should receive an increase, decrease or freeze in their budget? Would you support a tax increase for roads, water and sewer? We have to continue to find greater efficiency before increasing taxes. For instance, through better planning, we can avoid waste. The way some road work, in particular pothole repairs, is done often leaves one wondering if a more lasting solution could not be found. I hate seeing a pot hole filled and only days later the only remnant is asphalt debris on the road and the hole remains.

Question 22: Do you support the present hotel tax? I guess the question I’d need answered is what impact it is having on attracting business.

Question 23: Would you support the city of Winnipeg having a sales tax in addition to property tax? No, but I would entertain the idea of the entire province contributing a portion of the sales tax to the city of Winnipeg. I would also like to see our fair share of the estimated $55M land transfer tax, generated mostly by the sale of Winnipeg homes, stay here in Winnipeg. The land transfer tax has been a windfall for provincial revenue, for the most part on the backs of Winnipeg residents.

Question 24: Do you think Winnipeg should have a tax cut? If yes or no, explain why? No. Our current taxes adequately put us in a competitive place in terms of attracting residential development. I doubt we could balance the budget with a further tax cut.

Question 25: Do you believe that the present city of Winnipeg budget is adequate for the city of Winnipeg? If yes or no, explain why. The short answer is no, but the real question is how to raise the money. Estimates are that our infrastructure needs renewal at a greater pace than we are presently performing.

Question 25: Should education be funded through property tax or through general funds from the province? Having made the decision to invest money in our home, rather than RRSP’s, cars, boats, cottage, etc, I feel an unfair burden placed on that investment in the form of property taxes. I would support an initiative to have education funded entirely or partly though a different system.

Question 26: Do you support term limits? Will you be serving a term limit even if there are no rules in place? How long will you serve? Having been served well by our previous councillor, I haven’t felt the need for a term limit. There are those who believe City council has suffered from stagnation and complacency. With new blood comes new ideas, and renewed energy to tackle previously insurmountable problems. I see that as a legitimate concern, and would not oppose a term limit.

Question 26: Do you think housing should be allowed at The Forks? If yes or no, explain why. If it fits in, I can’t see why not.

Question 27: What changes (if any) should be done to upkeep our city parks and recreation programs?

Question 28: What do hope to see in the Kapyong Barracks along Kenaston? I’d like to see mixed residential and commercial development that is in keeping with the current nature of the existing surroundings. Closer to Kenaston, you could have more commercial development, and as you approach the existing residential neighbourhood, it should transition towards equal or better residential housing. It is imperative that we take action to ensure that whatever the outcome of the First Nations challenge to the sale of Crown owned lands, the City of Winnipeg has standing in the nature of its development. It’s not an issue of ownership, but rather ensuring that its development compliments the existing surroundings. We owe that to the people of Tuxedo. I’d like to see the City of Winnipeg legal department look into the issue and determine whether there is any merit in seeking an intervener status in the case that is tying up the lands.
Question 29: Do you support a moratorium on development on old railway lines in favour of rapid transit and bike corridors? The Rapid Transit Task Force did not support the widespread viability of using existing railway lines for rapid transit. In some areas it is suitable and in others it isn’t. I’m all for improving bike paths, it’s a healthy alternative with many benefits, not to mention getting cars off the roads. Its unfortunate that we have already lost many of the closed lines.

Question 30: Do you support widening Kenaston to three lanes in each direction? Yes. Its hard to believe the need wasn’t forseen.

Question 31: Do you support the creation of service roads for any further shopping developments? Yes. I believe service roads would have been beneficial along Kenaston to reduce the number of intersections. Winnipeg has too many four way stops and traffic lights. If we can’t afford overpasses, at least we could use service roads to reduce intersections on main roadways.

Question 32: What is your view on city taxes going to build a stadium for the Blue Bombers and Manitoba Bisons? To be frank, it would not be a priority for me given the current state of our infrastructure. That said, if the majority of Winnipegger’s want it, and are willing to pay for it out of their tax dollars, who am I to argue. I’ve heard many complaints about the city making a commitment to be involved without the actual costs being finalized, and I have to agree that it seemed the process was not taken in the right order.

Question 33: What is your view of a possible call for taxpayer help to expand the MTS Centre? Would you support it? Same answer as Question 32.

Question 34: What do you believe the city should do to ensure a vital downtown? Do you believe it is important as a councillor to support it? I think city council sends out mixed messages when they continue to support commercial sprawl by building more shopping centres. I was going to the University of Winnipeg when they redeveloped the North side of Portage Avenue, and for a while it looked promising. There is a real or perceived problem with public safety in that area, and it needs to be addressed. It’s encouraging to see the expansion of downtown compasses and living space. I think the future lies in attracting the young and adventurous. The MTS Centre was a valuable addition to downtown, and serves as an example of a successful project funded partly by taxpayers. It’s all about the right deals and the right balance being struck.

Question 35: Do you believe that some city service should be privatized? Yes, some may be suitable candidates. What services (if any) I don’t believe in wholesale privatization. I believe we can benefit from both selective outsourcing and continuing to support the development of in house expertise that we will retain and build upon success from. In particular, planning and public consulting should remain in house in order to retain the expertise developed. Work with clearly defined specifications should be advertised for tenders and considered on its merits.



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River Heights-Active Transportation Part 2

Academy Road and Harrow Street, now blocked on the north side. As you can see, people use the street for access to Academy, to go down Harrow to Kelvin High and to park for the school. Now people cut through the lanes behind the houses.



Academy Road and Harrow Street, now blocked on the north side. This is the view from Academy Road looking towards Kelvin High School.

Update on parking on Grosvenor and the no parking signs that went up in front of Westworth Church:

The city engineer assured people at the church they will not be ticketed or towed if they park in front of the church. The post remains up but the sign came down on Friday. It is not entirely clear if this is temporary or a permanent change.

It is apparent that the city has been stung by an outcry on blocking a church in this way and are hoping to quell a huge backlash.

The church was contacted by The Winnipeg Sun and was talked about on The Great Canadian Talk Show. The issue was brought up with CBC Radio today.

The latest outrage in River Heights is the barricade that has gone up along Academy Road and Harrow Street on the north side of the street.

In the Free Press, Luis Escobar, manager of transportation for the city's public works department indicated this was to stop people taking shortcuts into the neighbourhood. However, now people are using the backlane or having to turn around and go the other way as there is no warning sign. This is safer for people?

Luis Escobar went on CJOB this morning and was peppered with questions about traffic all over the city. In some cases the persons who should have been giving answers were the politicians. They seem to be trying to distance themselves from all this and throwing their hands up about stopping some of the worst aspects of the active transportation chaos.

It seems the battles have to fought street by street on this issue and every day is a new surprise.



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Charleswood-Tuxedo panel on CBC Radio Part 2

Just finished with the CBC panel at Sorrento's restaurant in the Charleswood Shopping Centre Plaza.

There were five panelists. Two were business women and community volunteers, one was retired and a volunteer was, was was between jobs due to health issues and then there was myself.

From the CBC was producer Donna Carreiro and CBC host Terry McLeod and their sound technician.



Terry McLeod, left, panelist David and myself, right.

The discussion was broken into three segments. The first was to describe the neighbourhood and some misconceptions about it. The next segment was about the community issues and the third segment was the what the panel wished for the city.

In the first segment the panel agreed that it was wrong to think that the neighbourhood was completely wealthy. It was pointed out that there was Manitoba Housing in the ward and a mix of income groups from lower to high. The community club volunteers stated that 40% of the young people at the clubs needed some sort of income assistance to help pay for their sport.

The first segment touched on crime and there was an indication that the area was not devoid of it and that it was a misconception to think so. Many had first hand experience with vandalism, theft and fear of going out at night within the ward.

The second segment was about the needs and issues of the ward and what people thought about taxes. Everyone on the panel agreed that tax could go up and maybe should go up if there was an indication that it was addressing infrastructure and needed programs in the community as well as policing.

The third segment was about what everyone wished for in the community. There seemed some agreement that whoever was elected at to be thinking about community issues beyond Charleswood-Tuxedo. There was a desire for connectivity with the rest of the city in terms of transit, policing and programs. What this meant was that people on the panel thought you can't solve crime in Charleswood without thinking of the city as a whole. You can't fix infrastructure only in Charleswood if you simply bottleneck on Portage Avenue or Kenaston. And it means nothing if your community club is vital if all the others in the city are falling apart. The recognition was that parochialism does not serve the community well.

There was not much talk about the candidates in general. We are still in the dark to a great extent about who is running and what they are about. I hope that we see even great information in the days ahead. Still, the CBC panel was and should be illuminating to those in ward and in the city in general.

Charleswood is such a large ward. I both live and work in it and hope for the best in it and the city as a whole in the years ahead.



The Charleswood-Tuxedo ward.



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