Concern for community prompts Waddell to run for Neepawa Council

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Published on Thursday, May 28, 2015

By Kate Jackman-Atkinson

The Neepawa Banner

Long-time area resident and Neepawa Banner co-owner Christine Waddell says that the democratic process and a love for the community prompted her to run in next month’s byelection.  Waddell is one of three candidates vying for the empty seat at the Neepawa council table.

Waddell was the first candidate to officially enter the race and she explains her decision to run, saying, “I care, I care about the community.” She added, “The opening was there, the opportunity, and I believe in the democratic process.” 

Waddell has a few areas she believes are priorities, most notably, a new fire hall. “I know there is a need for a new fire hall that meets the standards that we have today and probably a new location that is better for the kind of calls our firefighters make,” she said. Waddell added that this is also an area of concern among the ratepayers she has talked to.

Waddell also sees tourism and encouraging businesses as important initiatives for the Town.

One thing she would like to see changed is increased visibility in the community from councillors. Saying, “I hope as a councillor to be visible, to be out and about to hear what people are saying.  Not just now before I’m elected.”  She added that visibility and accountability are very important, “We’re here to serve the community.”

Talking to area residents, Waddell said that a new hospital is a top of mind issue. “The hospital is very high up there,” she said. Many residents have wanted to talk about the new proposed regional hospital and its out-of-town location.  She said, “I know we [the Town of Neepawa] have a memorandum of understanding in place for a site. What are site criteria? It was only location and only for regional.  In effect, our hospital is already a regional hospital. [Since the project was first announced] many things have changed.”  Waddell added, “I applaud our doctors and our staff for what they are accomplishing. I want to see this facility maintain its licensing, its credentials for what we are able to do.”

Among ratepayers, another area of concern is the condition of many of the town’s roads. She wants to see increased support for town staff about the best way to get projects done economically and quickly.

Waddell has been involved in numerous groups, activities and events since moving to the area in 1971. After being involved in numerous elections at all three levels of government, this is Waddell’s first time running as a candidate in a municipal election. “I want to prove to myself and others that what I have been encouraging others to do is possible. It [sitting on council] isn’t a full time job, [though] it does take commitment,” she said.

The election is slated for June 17, with the advance poll taking place June 1.  Mail-in ballots are also available for those who can’t make the two polling dates. “I hope people get out and vote… We didn’t have an opportunity to vote for council last time,” said Waddell.