Susan Penner Announces Bid for Re-Election to Steinbach City Council

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STEINBACH, MB – Susan Penner has announced her intention to seek re-election to Steinbach City Council in this fall's municipal election.

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First elected in 2010, Penner has served the residents of Steinbach for the past 16 years, becoming a strong and respected voice on City Council. Throughout her time in office, she has remained committed to a common-sense approach to decision-making, balancing responsible growth with practical solutions that move Steinbach forward.

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"Steinbach is an incredible community, and I believe we have an exciting future ahead of us. I am seeking re-election because I want to continue advocating for practical solutions that strengthen our community, support responsible growth, and improve the quality of life for all residents."

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Penner says her priorities for the next term focus on three key areas: infrastructure, healthcare advocacy, and community safety.

 

Prioritizing Infrastructure

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As Steinbach continues to grow, Penner believes strategic infrastructure investments must remain a top priority. She points to the City's upcoming wastewater treatment expansion as one of the most important infrastructure projects facing Steinbach in the coming years.

 

"Our community continues to experience tremendous growth, and that growth depends on investing in the infrastructure that supports it," said Penner. "The wastewater project is not simply a utility upgrade; it is an investment in Steinbach's future.”

 

Penner also remains a strong advocate for accelerated flood mitigation projects and long-term drainage solutions. Having experienced the devastating impacts of flooding firsthand, she understands the importance of investing in infrastructure that protects residents and businesses.

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"The City has already begun making significant investments in flood mitigation with projects that will increase the drainage capacity of Steinbach overall, such as the expansion of Lift Station 1, as well increasing capacity in neighborhoods that have been prone to flooding. This is critical given the extreme rain events we are seeing."

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Penner also highlighted the completion of the Southeast Event Centre as a transformational infrastructure investment for the community.  

"The Southeast Event Centre has shown what is possible when a community works together. We are already seeing the benefits through increased recreational opportunities, major events that bring people together, economic activity generated by visitors, and a renewed sense of pride in our community."

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Recognizing the substantial investment required for major recreation projects, Penner says the City should explore the possibility of the next large recreational development as a regional partnership.

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Healthcare Advocacy

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Throughout her current term, Penner has worked closely with Mayor Earl Funk and other community partners on physician recruitment initiatives designed to address Steinbach's healthcare challenges. Their efforts have included advocating for increased medical training opportunities, supporting physician recruitment and retention strategies, and strengthening relationships with medical residents choosing to practice in the region.

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"While healthcare delivery is not a municipal responsibility, advocating for our residents is," said Penner

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Penner also says she will be advocating for transitional care beds in Steinbach to ensure that local residents can remain close to their families and support networks while awaiting long-term care placement.

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This issue became deeply personal for Penner after her father suffered a stroke and was transferred to the Morris hospital this spring.

"Since my dad’s stroke, our family is experiencing firsthand how difficult and isolating it can be for loved ones when they are moved away from their community and support systems," said Penner. "Steinbach residents should not be moved out of Steinbach while waiting for a care home placement. We have a responsibility to care for those who have cared for us and built the community we enjoy today."

 

Building a Safe Community

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Penner says maintaining a safe community remains fundamental to Steinbach's continued success and quality of life.

"People choose to live in Steinbach because it is a safe, family-oriented community. Protecting that quality of life is important."

 

During her time on council, Penner has supported initiatives designed to enhance public safety, including the addition of private security services to supplement RCMP resources and the expansion of community safety initiatives through additional Community Safety Officers.

 

"We must continue taking a practical and proactive approach to public safety. Most people simply want to raise their families, operate their businesses, and enjoy their community knowing they are safe."

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As she seeks another term on council, Penner says she remains committed to thoughtful leadership, fiscal responsibility, and ensuring Steinbach continues to grow in a way that reflects the values of its residents.

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"I believe in common sense, collaboration, and putting people ahead of politics," said Penner. "I look forward to continuing the work of building a strong, safe, and thriving Steinbach.”