Winnipeg mayor nominates business owner to police board

Mayor Scott Gillingham is pictured with entrepreneur Amit Kapoor at his Ness Avenue McDonald’s franchise in Winnipeg, Man. in March 2022. (Scott Gillingham/Instagram)

Mayor Scott Gillingham has nominated a local business owner to the Winnipeg Police Board in a bid to tackle retail crime in the city.

Mayor Gillingham has nominated Amit Kapoor to fill a citizen member spot left vacant by Kevin Selch, whose term expired.

According to a news release, Kapoor owns Kapson Family Restaurants Ltd., which runs several McDonald’s franchises in the city. He has also served on the boards of the RBC Convention Centre and Ronald McDonald House Charities and is a member of the Business Council of Manitoba.

Mayor Gillingham said retail crime continues to be a big concern in the city, and Kapoor offers an important vantage point.

“As a business owner who deals with frontline public safety issues every day, Amit brings a valuable perspective to the Police Board. He understands what’s at stake for workers, customers, and communities,” Gillingham said in a news release.

The nomination will be considered by the executive policy committee Tuesday before going before city council.

Meanwhile, Mayor Gillingham said he is stepping away from the board due to governance changes. A new councillor will be appointed to fill the spot.