The City of Winnipeg says they are discussing ways to best help residents despite changes to daily life.

Today Mayor Bowman spoke about changes in city business including how the council plans to meet, possible budget changes, and transit schedule discussions.

 

Electronic City Council Meetings

City Council meetings are moving to an electronic format instead of meeting in person.

Bowman says that in two weeks' time he hopes council meetings will be back to a normal schedule.

"I expect that our priority and focuses with be on COVID-19," Bowman says.

Bowman adds that once city council meetings continue they will be able to discuss other businesses such as police pensions and construction.

Scheduled meetings will take place online throughout the course of 120 days.

Transit Changes

Later this month the spring transit schedule was set to be announced, but the city says as the COVID-19 pandemic continues they will need to make changes as they come. 

"We are going to make every effort to provide the best service that we can," Jason Shaw, Manager, City of Winnipeg Emergency Operations Centre, says.

The city is asking for residents to practice physical distancing and to limit rides to essential trips only. They note that transfer services are required for essential workers and plan to continue services.

"We are in this to save lives," Shaw says.

He notes that the transfer schedule may alter to an extended Saturday schedule but these discussions are ongoing. 

Bowman adds that to date there have been no transit layoffs due to COVID-19 despite decreased ridership.

Financial Shortfalls

Mayor Bowman notes that as residents are experiencing financial difficulties, the city is attempting to aid in tax relief but are asking residents to pay taxes if they can.

He shares that as Winnipeg continues to support new initiatives, the city may need to reevaluate its budget to make up for possible revenue losses.