All candidates were sent a questionnaire put together by Functional Transit Winnipeg and given several weeks to reply. Responses have been summarized below. You can read each candidate’s full response and the questions we asked by following the link underneath each summary.
Functional Transit Winnipeg’s priorities for this election are increased operating funding for transit, implementation of a frequent service network and measures to address driver and passenger safety. We have noted comments related to those priorities in the summaries.
Three words to sum up Winnipeg’s transit system: “Forward not backward”
Gives current transit system a letter grade of C+ to B due to system improvement and modernization.
Would make transit modern, efficient, responsive, and accessible.
Supports implementation of low income bus pass.
Previously supported committing $590,000 to transit safety presence on buses provided by transit inspectors.
Safety: Will continue to support recommendations from TAC to continue Main Street Project training for operators. Supports TAC recommendation to engage with Bear Clan to contribute to safety.
Will support exploring initiatives to improve transit including electric bus purchases and BRT corridors.
Supported increasing municipal contribution for transit from $55 million in 2017 to $66.4 million in 2018. Supports a low income bus pass, expansion of bus rapid transit. Launched a system-wide review. Will urge province to restore 50-50 funding.
Winnipeg’s transit system in three words: “Who dares wins.”
Gives current transit system a letter grade of C+.
Safety: To address safety issues, would provide a live GPS of buses direct to police cars.
Envisions funding following from improvements to transit and businesses at bus stops.
Would reduce fares to $#1.00 and monthly buses passes to $30.00.
Safety: Hire 12 dedicated policeman for the transit system.
Frequency: Would consider increasing the number of buses where needed.
Winnipeg’s transit system in three words: “Our future gem.”
Gives current transit system a letter grade of C+.
Transit took a terrible financial hit in the last budget. Funding in Winnipeg is at a bare minimum. The future of Winnipeg and public transit are intertwined. Transit must innovate and embrace change.
Safety: Would support a police presence on buses.
Winnipeg’s transit system in three words: “Needs improvement fast.”
Gives current transit system a letter grade of C+ due to lack of responsiveness for drivers’ needs and poor communication within Winnipeg Transit.
Transit is 1 priority mainly because it provides transportation at an affordable cost.
Vision for the future of Winnipeg Transit is light rail, electric buses, free park & rides, Toonie bus fare.
Safety: Believes safety is an issue due to fares and tense work environment. Believes safety can be improved with $2 fares, driver shields, improved Winnipeg Transit management practices, and Cadet/police presence on buses.
Would fight for more electric buses and improve efficiency within Winnipeg Transit.
Ed Ackerman
Did not respond to questionnaire
Umar Hayat
Did not respond to questionnaire
Jenny Motkaluk
Did not respond to questionnaire