The Mayor is shaking things up in his council as he announces major leadership changes will be coming at the end of the month.

Mayor Brian Bowman says the early exchanges are necessary to do in response to the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As our city begins to adjust to a new normal, it is important that those in leadership roles are focused on how we can continue to build our city for the future during and after the pandemic has passed," Bowman says.

The change in roles will take effect starting June 27.

John Orlikow (River Heights-Fort Garry) will be replacing Markus Chambers as Deputy Mayor. Vivian Santos (Point Douglas) will be taking up the role of Acting Deputy Mayor. 

"The roles of Deputy Mayor and Acting Deputy Mayor are incredibly important,” Bowman says. “I want to thank Councillor Chambers for his excellent work in our community during his time as Deputy Mayor. I am pleased to welcome Councillor Orlikow to the role of Deputy Mayor. As one of the longest-serving City Councillors, he is well-positioned to provide strong leadership and public service in the role of Deputy Mayor.”

Orlikow will also be overseeing the Council objectives for responding to the effects of COVID-19, responsible for supporting the goals of the Human Rights Committee of Council, as well as a supporting the Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Infrastructure Renewal and Public Works by promoting and improving the Million Tree Challenge through engagement with Trees Winnipeg and other external stakeholders

Council Chairs:

  • Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Infrastructure Renewal and Public Works - Councillor Matt Allard (St. Boniface)
  • Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Innovation and Economic Development - Councillor Jeff Browaty (North Kildonan)
  • Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Finance - Councillor Scott Gillingham (St. James)
  • Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Property and Development, Heritage, and Downtown Development - Councillor Cindy Gilroy (Daniel McIntyre)
  • Chair of the Standing Committee on Water and Waste, Riverbank Management and the Environment - Councillor Brian Mayes (St. Vital)
  • Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Protection, Community Services and Parks - Councillor Sherri Rollins (Fort Rouge - East Fort Garry)

Councillor Markus Chambers (St. Norbert - Seine River) has served as Vice-Chair to the Winnipeg Police Board previously and is awaiting Council ratification to assume the position as Chair.

Gillingham will be the Council Liaison for Veteran and Military Affairs, and Mayes as Council Liaison for School Board and Youth Opportunities.