Press Release: Susan Penner seeking THIRD TERM
July 10, 2018
Steinbach City Councillor Susan Penner has announced her intention to seek re-election for a third term in this fall's municipal election on October 24th. In her first two terms, Penner has been a strong voice for keeping taxes & debt low, a theme she will continue during this election. Penner admits this is a challenge for a growing city like Steinbach.
"Steinbach’s growth continues to be a great opportunity for our local economy, but is a challenge in terms of the pressure it puts on our infrastructure, recreation, and policing requirements - all important factors in making Steinbach an enjoyable place to call home."
Penner maintains that the primary responsibility of council is to focus on basic infrastructure such as water, drainage, and roads. "A concern I regularly hear from residents is the significant increase of traffic in Steinbach. I would like council to continue to look for ways to improve traffic flow and safety in Steinbach. Paving Park Road East and Old Tom Road has helped, as has additional work on Highway12 North.” Next, Penner said she would like to see Park Road West paved.
When it comes to the topic of recreational and cultural facilities, Penner says there needs to be a realistic vision if the city is to move forward. “Because we are a regional hub, there is the perception that Steinbach's tax base is a lot larger than it actually is. It is essential to keep in mind that we are a community of 16,000 people when making recreation & culture decisions, as these facilities carry significant annual operating costs.” Penner notes that over $1 million of property taxes are already being put into a recreation & culture reserve each year and believes projects should be done without further tax impact, including a funding model comprised of the private sector, other levels of government, and users.
As for safety and policing, Penner is positive. “Our RCMP is doing excellent work in keeping Steinbach safe.” She says that the addition of the GIS Unit and the Canine Unit have been very effective, even though much of their work goes unreported.
As Steinbach continues to grow outward, Penner recognizes the importance of ensuring downtown Steinbach remains vibrant. “Our downtown district is filled with locally-owned businesses which keep profits in Steinbach and provide a stable economic foundation with direct ties to the community. I would like see our downtown continue to develop with business, recreation & culture, and living in order to keep it a desirable place to be.”
Penner believes her experience as a city councillor will be a benefit going into an election in which there will be many changes on council. “Steinbach will have a new mayor and at least three new councillors. My experience would certainly be a benefit and provide stability as the new mayor and councillors adjust to their new roles.”
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Copyright © Susan Penner
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