Proud to carry the baton for St. Vital

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 09/11/2022 (204 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

I once heard the baseball announcer Tim McCarver talk about his playing career, when he served as the catcher for the great pitcher Steve Carlton. McCarver said that by the end of their years together, it no longer mattered who the batter was, the two men knew each other so well that they were essentially playing a “sophisticated game of catch.” I told that story to then-St. James city councillor Scott Gillingham a few years ago, as an example of how I wanted to relate to the people of St Vital — that I could relate directly to the people without concerns about social media or outside influences.

“It’s a wonderful image,” he said.

I thought about this on civic election night for two reasons — I once again want to thank the people of St. Vital for putting their faith in me, and for taking the time to talk to me at their doors, asking questions or stating their concerns. I will work to demonstrate that I deserve that faith.

I also thought Coun. Gillingham — now Mayor Gillingham — as election results came in. He is one of the finest people with whom I have worked in my adult life; a very decent man determined to work hard for the City of Winnipeg and all its residents. I usually roll my eyes at people on social media who say they are “thrilled” about something, but I am thrilled to be back on Council and back on the executive policy committee under Mayor Gillingham, continuing as chair of the water, waste and environment committee.

I said on election night that I have seen life likened to a running relay race, in which one takes the baton and does one’s best before handing it off. As a runner myself, I like this image and, as I said on election night, “I have a few laps left in me yet.”

Thank you again to the people of St. Vital. The work begins anew!

Brian Mayes
St. Vital ward report

Brian Mayes is the city councillor for St. Vital.

   Read full biography