Winnipeg Minute: Councillor Censure, Police Helicopter, and Golf Club Operations

Winnipeg Minute - Your weekly one-minute summary of Winnipeg politics

This Week In Winnipeg:

• This morning, at 9:30 am, there will be a meeting of the Standing Policy Committee on Water, Waste and Environment. The agenda includes payment options for customers pursuing the removal of lead water lines, an opt-out program for the Advanced Water Metering Solution, and the Climate Action and Resilience Committee’s 2024 Annual Report, among several other items. The Standing Policy Committee on Public Works, originally scheduled for Tuesday, is rescheduled for February 14th.
  
  
• On Wednesday, at 9:30 am, there will be a meeting of the Standing Policy Committee on Community Services. The Committee will discuss the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service Strategic Direction Update and a Service Agreement between The City of Winnipeg and The Winnipeg Humane Society. The Standing Policy Committee on Property and Development will meet on Thursday at 9:30 am. The agenda includes a report on demolitions and site cleanings for vacant buildings in unsafe condition, as well as a proposed lease agreement between St. Boniface Golf Club and the City of Winnipeg. Finally, on Friday, the Lord Selkirk - West Kildonan Community Committee will meet at 9:30 am. (The Standing Policy Committee on Finance and Economic Development, originally scheduled for Friday, is cancelled).
  
  
• The Granite Curling Club is facing challenges due to a proposal to build 111 units of affordable housing on a parking lot next to its heritage building. While the Club says it supports affordable housing, it is concerned about losing its west parking lot, which it fears could lead to a decline in membership. The City, which owns both the building and parking lot, had previously discussed the possibility of a housing development with the Club. However, the Club was surprised by the sudden move to apply for subdivision and rezoning, and is requesting a firm commitment regarding parking and future negotiations. The City has proposed sharing revenue from the new development to help maintain the Club, but the Club remains cautious without a written agreement.

Last Week In Winnipeg:

• The City said it is considering taking over operations of the Canoe Club Golf Course after its current operator failed to pay rent and property taxes, leading to the course falling into disrepair. A report highlights neglected maintenance, including an irrigation system in need of $60,000 in repairs. If the city allows the land to go fallow, it could face over $214,000 in maintenance costs, making direct operation a more viable option. The city estimates it could generate $614,000 in revenue against $539,000 in expenses, resulting in a $75,000 surplus. With rising interest in city-run golf courses, officials believe municipal management would improve conditions and ensure financial stability. The property and development committee will review the proposal next Thursday.
  
  
• Council voted 12-2 to formally censure Councillor Russ Wyatt for comments he made about former Chief Administrative Officer Michael Jack. Wyatt refused to apologize for calling for Jack’s removal in 2023, despite a report finding his remarks violated the City’s Code of Conduct. Some Councillors questioned whether a reprimand was a sufficient punishment, with Councillor Cindy Gilroy arguing that stronger consequences were needed. Others, like Councillor Jason Schreyer, defended Wyatt’s right to speak out, even if his comments were controversial.
  
  
• Council approved a $13.5-million lease-to-own deal for a new police helicopter, despite concerns about the cost increase from the original $3.5-million helicopter purchased in 2010. The Airbus H125 model will be financed over 15 years at approximately $75,000 per month. Councillor Brian Mayes and Councillor Jason Schreyer voted against the deal, questioning whether an outright purchase would be more cost-effective. Mayor Scott Gillingham acknowledged the need to explore alternative technologies like drones but stated they are not yet a viable replacement. The current helicopter has been used for pursuits, search-and-rescue operations, and surveillance but has faced increasing maintenance delays.