Winnipeg Election 2022

Ryan Palmquist - Louis Riel - 3

What got you into politics?

I got into politics as a 17 year old volunteer on the federal election campaign of Matt Allard when he was running in my community growing up. I got in touch with some local campaigns being interested in politics and he got back to me right away and recruited me. I’ve been involved in politics and community activism since. I have always even as a teen lived a life of public service inspired by my father.

What experience will you bring to compliment your role as (Mayor / Councillor / School Trustee)?

I have worked at City Hall for City Councillor Matt Allard for 8 years. In that time I have been closely involved in public policy, relations with the administration, public communication and research. I have a strong understanding of the workings of government and public policy, and skill in navigating the relationship between the public and subject matter experts. I have worked hard to balance pragmatism and an attitude of collaboration with diverse viewpoints with a principled stance and commitment to my ideals.

What are some issues that you would like to stand for in your role as (Mayor / Councillor / School Trustee), and why are these issues important to you?

My campaign is focused on two key commitments;

1) The introduction of swimming lessons and water safety into the schools offer of service, in order to make swimming skills more accessible to more families, to make better use of existing public facilities, and to ease off demand and competition for peak times.

2) I wish to see the division, and myself in the role of trustee, take a more active involvement in the issue of school zone safety and encouraging walking to school through a combination of political advocacy from the division as an important community stakeholder, and direct school/division led programming that supports greater numbers of students walking to school.

Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

I grew up on Woodydell Ave in Ward 3, attending Dr DW Penner, Minnetonka, and Glenlawn Collegiate in the LRSD, and live today with family in St Vital. I have worked for 8 years in the office of City Councillor Matt Allard, including collaborating with the LRSD on creating shared student and neighbourhood spaces, and writing in the Lance. I have been an active volunteer for many years leading and supporting numerous neighbourhood initiatives. I am passionate about empowering the next generation and building a strong community.