Political parties at City Hall

March 10, 2010

Stephen Au, fourth-year honours, political science

I think it’s already politicized. There’s a polarization between politicians - your right wing, your left wing believers. It’s not unconventional for municipal politics to have political affiliations.
Aron Epp, Diversity Foods employee

I would say it’s necessary. Different parties are necessary to represent different political views.
Eric Okoli, second-year, business administration

No, we do not. City Hall shouldn’t be like the province where they argue and don’t get anything done. Winnipeg shouldn’t be able to shut down City Hall for two months and just go on vacation.
Dawn Fraser, third-year, environmental studies

My instant reaction was that I was against it because cities should be on a consensus basis rather than partisan.
Dave Ginter, Winnipeg Transit driver

I’m kind of torn on it. I don’t think we really do [need political parties] at that level. But some unity would be nice rather than what’s going on there right now. Maybe a combination. Some political party activity done with a good number of independents. We need someone in City Hall with better consensus-building skills.
Heather Malazdrewicz, manager at Travel Cuts

I don’t like that idea. I like the councillors and that they know their area and can speak for it. I like it the way it is.