Geschiere running on ‘common sense’

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This article was published 03/10/2018 (2801 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Shane Geschiere is running for city council for Transcona in the Oct. 24 civic election.

A political novice, Geschiere said it was his sense of community that inspired him to declare his candidacy for city council.

“Transcona has shaped who I am in a big way,” the 39-year-old father of three said. “I want to give back. I also found myself complaining about issues, so I figured I would stop complaining and get involved in a big way.”

During his campaign to date, Geschiere said he’s heard concerns from residents regarding crime and infrastructure.

 “Being part of city council, I would want to build relationships through conversation with the people of Winnipeg,” he said. “I believe door-knocking doesn’t have to stop after the election. I feel like politicians should serve the citizens, and not the other way around.”

If elected, Geschiere also pledged to work to provide further recreational opportunities for seniors.

“Maybe we can make use of our community clubs during the day,” he suggested. “But I don’t want to tell seniors what to do, I’d like to hear from them on what they want.”

Geschiere would also like to “enhance and revitalize” greenspace within the ward.

“One of the big things I hear going around talking to people is the Portage and Main opening,” Geschiere added. “We have money to open that, why would we not spend that on something else that’s possibly more urgent?”

And while he may lack political experience, Geschiere has been involved in charitable fundraising, citing a drive to raise money for a new play structure in Crocus Park (now Victoria Jason Park).

“If the people are looking for someone with deep political connections or experience in government, that’s not me,” Geschiere said. “But if the people are looking for someone to put them ahead of politics, I think that’s me. I don’t think I’m better than the people voting for me. I just want to get to work on the issues.”

Sheldon Birnie
Community Journalist

Sheldon Birnie is a reporter/photographer for the Free Press Community Review. Email him at sheldon.birnie@freepress.mb.ca or call him at 204-697-7112

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