The election is now yesterday's news and regardless of for whom you cast your ballot, it will be important that we come together to work with our new city councillor to achieve positive changes in Glenelm and Elmwood.
Something we may want to consider is inviting Mr. Steen to a community meeting to learn more about our neighhbourhood's concerns and priorities and discuss how he will represent our interests at City Hall. It's worth noting that he was one of the Elmwood-EK candidates to drop by our October 17th 'Party in the Park' event -- a hopeful indication of future interest and commitment.
Also worthy of note is the work he is doing with his son Alexander, through the Amadeus Steen Foundation: funding a play area in the Winnipeg Children's Hospital and re-building a centre for at-risk youth in southern Ontario. Perhaps our new councillor will also be willing to support initiatives for at-risk youth in Elmwood, including more extensive and accessible programming in close proximity to where vulnerable children and youth live.
To get a better sense of Mr. Steen's vision and priorities for our community, please see below the election platform posted on his campaign web site and the election questionnaire he completed:
Ensuring the Safety of our Streets and Homes
I will work hard to see proven crime prevention programs implemented which have the residents and community agencies working very closely with the Winnipeg Police Services to ensure that our streets and neighborhoods are safe for all.
Working Effectively with all Levels of Government
We need to work cooperatively with all levels of government to create a common vision for our city.
Creating and Implementing an Effective Infrastructure Renewal Program
The breakdown of our infrastructure must be addressed with a comprehensive plan for renewal. This plan must include consultation with the residents and businesses of our community, especially as it relates to roadways, sidewalks and drainage.
Beautifying our Community
I will invest in the enhancement of our parks and public areas with greenscaping, lighting and community integrated anti-graffiti programs.
Developing and Maintaining Recreational Spaces and Programs
I would like to see more partnerships with community centres so that they can serve as hubs for the surrounding community. This would include support services for our youth, families, seniors and new residents of Winnipeg.
Encouraging a Positive Business Environment
We need to encourage more investment in Winnipeg. This will broaden our tax base and allow us to provide quality services within the existing structure.
Demanding Value for our Tax Dollars
I am opposed to tax increases as I believe there are still many opportunities to find efficiencies through continuous improvements at City Hall.
1. Why did you decide to run in the 2010 Winnipeg election?
There are a number of reasons that compelled me to run as City Councilor. It is difficult to say which one was the most important since they all influenced me in making my decision to run. As an immigrant I have felt so grateful to the people of Winnipeg who welcomed me into their hearts and homes. As a result I have always felt a strong need to repay the hospitality the people of this city have shown me. I also believe that the city is at a turning point. I have sensed in the last few years that the city has made a noticeable positive change. I want to be part of a city council that continues to move the city forward. Finally as a candidate in the last federal election I made a real connection with the people in the Elmwood – East Kildonan area. When I was asked to consider running as a councilor by some of the residents of Elmwood – East Kildonan I felt honoured, seriously considered the request and was ultimately convinced to accept the challenge.
2. What experience will you bring to complement your role as councillor?
Community Involvement
I founded a charity, the Amadeus Steen foundation in memory of our son which funds worthwhile projects for children and youths. Understanding Public Service is essential for a city councilor.
Commitment to Excellence
As a professional athlete I understood the type of commitment and drive that it takes to excel at the highest level. As a City Councilor I will demand the same standard of excellence for myself, the city administration and in the services we provide to the citizens of Winnipeg.
Leadership
As Captain of the Winnipeg Jets players I was called upon by, fans, and team management, to motivate the players on the team to perform to their best of their abilities. In the same way I will provide leadership at city hall with my fellow councilors and ensure that we are focused on our goal, which is to provide excellent services to the citizens.
Vision
As a professional hockey scout I had to analyze the potential of up and coming hockey talent to determine their potential as professional. As City Councilors we are called upon to evaluate new ideas and program and quickly discern what fits with the long term plans and needs of Winnipeg.
3. What are the major issues you would like to stand for and why did you choose these issues?
From my discussions with community leaders and the residents of Elmwood-East Kildonan I have developed a platform that is resonating throughout the ward. If elected I am committed to the following:
· Ensuring the safety of our streets and homes through proven crime prevention programs that work closely with the community and the Winnipeg Police Services.
· Working with all levels of government in order to access infrastructure funds to maintain streets and services in Elmwood – E.K.
· Developing and maintaining recreational spaces and programs.
· Demanding value for our tax dollars.
4. Is there anything in particular you would like to change in our city? In your ward?
City of Winnipeg
As I already mentioned I believe that the City of Winnipeg is at a turning point. We are moving in the right direction in terms of creating a positive environment. We need to continue this and finds ways to encourage more investment. We also need to have proven crime prevention programs implemented which work very closely with the community and Winnipeg Police Services to ensure that our streets and neighborhoods are safe for all. At the same time we need to create a positive environment for city employees so that they are motivated to provide excellent services. If we can maintain this momentum over time we can create a prosperous and safe city with affordable quality services.
Elmwood – East Kildonan
This is an area of the city that has been underrepresented by its elected officials in the past. There is a real opportunity this election to make a change from this pattern and in turn send a strong message that this area wants to contribute and be part of the revitalization of the city.
5. Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?
I would like to say how enjoyable and important it is for me to be part of the democratic process. I would love to represent Elmwood East Kildonan on City Council and look forward to being able to serve the citizens of Winnipeg with enthusiasm and dedication in the coming term.
Thomas Steen Campaign web site
Thomas Steen on Wikipedia
Amadeus Steen Foundation
Toronto Star: Amadeus Steen Foundation builds centre for at-risk youth
Winnipeg Free Press - Council divided between left and right
Thomas Steen wins Elmwood-East Kildonan
