WINNIPEG – It’s a speech outlining the mayor’s vision for Winnipeg. But before Sam Katz started his State of the City address, he made a point of discussing frozen water pipes.
“This is a big challenge for everyone,” Katz told Winnipeg’s business community at the Chamber of Commerce lunch.
He said every city department is working on the issue. More than 700 homes and businesses have no water because of frozen water lines with that list growing every day.
“No question this has been a tough winter,” said Katz. “And it’s not over yet.”
Winnipeg’s mayor went on to address cost overruns on the city’s new police headquarters and the building of a fire hall on land on Taylor Avenue the city didn’t own.
Katz praised how council has reduced the business tax over the past few years. He also touched on investments made to fix local and regional streets.
“I feel hopeful for how the city is growing and gaining momentum,” said Katz.
He went on to say how stores like Marshall’s, H&M and Bed, Bath and Beyond have expanded into Winnipeg.
“Businesses and investors are seeking us out,” said Katz.
But potential mayoral contenders weren’t sold on his words.
“The city is in a mess and Winnipeggers know that,” said Judy Wasylycia-Leis, who ran against Katz in the last civic election and is considering entering the race again.
Gord Steeves, who has already declared he is running in October, was also doubtful.
“I am not sure that a lot of that optimism rang true when i was listening to the speech,” said Steeves.
Katz admitted he knows Winnipeg isn’t perfect.
“There is lots of work that needs to be done,” said the mayor.
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