Manitoba NDP Leader, Wab Kinew, made a campaign stop in Brandon on Sunday (Aug 13).
A media release from the New Democrats said that Kinew promised “if his party wins the election, they will rebuild the Park Community Centre with a new childcare facility.” In making the announcement yesterday, Kinew was joined by members of the Park Community Centre board, community members and NDP candidate for Brandon East, Glen Simard.
“Families, artists and communities have been bringing people together at the Park Community Centre for decades,” said Manitoba NDP Leader Wab Kinew. “This place is a valuable a community hub that we can’t afford to lose. Heather Stefanson and Len Isleifson have refused to step in and help, but a Manitoba NDP government will be different. We will work with the city and the community to keep the charm and history of this special place while building a new structure that meets the needs of families today.”
The release said “In 2019 City of Brandon officials proposed rebuilding of the Park Community Centre. In 2021 the demolition was cancelled, and city officials began looking into renovating or replacing the building. At a city council meeting in February 2023, the city rejected 3 bids to rebuild the community centre citing a $300,000 shortfall. The city applied to the province for funding under the PC’s, but recently learned the PC’s said no.”
The Manitoba NDP pledged to invest up to $1 million to rebuild the Park Community Centre. Their plans for the new building would include a childcare centre. Kinew said his government would work with the city and the community to design a space that best serves the needs of the community.
“Len Isleifson and the PCs failed to deliver for the people of Brandon,” said NDP candidate for Brandon East Glen Simard. “He couldn’t get the Park Community Centre the funding it needs but I will. I care about Brandon East families, and alongside Wab Kinew, I will work hard to ensure that Brandon families have better health care and a thriving community.”
Manitobans head to the polls October 3rd.
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The Manitoba NDP also announced it has nominated Quentin Robinson as their candidate in Brandon West for the upcoming provincial election, this according to a media release on Saturday (Aug 12).
“As someone who grew up on a family farm, I know first hand how important it is to have a government that is working for you,” said Robinson. “But for the past seven years, Brian Pallister and Heather Stefanson have been doing nothing to help regular Manitobans. Alongside Wab Kinew and the Manitoba NDP team, I’m running to bring improved health care and affordability to families in Brandon West.”
The release said “Robinson began his career in farming, giving him an appreciation for the challenges and risks faced by small business owners. For the past 30 years, he has worked in United Church ministry and Family Counselling. Robinson is passionate about rebuilding health care and other key services for residents of Brandon West. He is also an active community member, and has served on the Boards of a community resource centre and several environmental groups.”
“Quentin will be a strong voice for families in Brandon West,” said Manitoba NDP Leader Wab Kinew. “As a family man and a former United Church Minister he wants to make life better for Brandon families. I know the people of Brandon West are ready for change. After seven years of PC cuts, it’s time to make life better, together.”
