Newly re-elected Mayor Scott Gillingham has 15 councillors he can draw from to appoint to his Executive Policy Committee, but compared to recent history, there is not as much experience to choose from. University of Winnipeg municipal studies professor Aaron Moore says he could see most of the councillors with experience put on EPC, but that might appear like Gillingham is ignoring the fact voters picked nine new councillors. “He’s going to have to, I think, balance practical issues with bringing on board some of the new people,” said Moore. Gillingham’s previous EPC had five councillor members to chair the various standing committees at city hall. Returning councillors Jeff Browaty and Vivan Santos publicly endorsed Gillingham during the campaign. Evan Duncan is a close ally, and all three were on Gillingham’s EPC before and might be a lock to return. “They’ll definitely be on it. It’s the remaining members that are sort of up in the air.” Veterans Cindy Gilroy and Matt Allard have EPC experience. The other returning councillor is Emma Durand-Wood, who has been a councillor for a year. But the mayor has suggested there could be rookies on EPC. “I think they’ll need to be a blend of experience, plus some new council members as well, potentially, to inject that new energy.” Gillingham said last Thursday. On EPC or not, the nine new councillors will all have to hit the ground running. “It’s a substantial learning curve,” said outgoing councillor Brian Mayes. Mayes says the city oversees more than most realize. “From Uber regulations to golf courses to cemeteries to street lighting, you know it’s a long list.” There is also another hole to fill. Long-time speaker Devi Sharma was defeated, so someone will have to take over as the person who keeps council in check during meetings. “You need to find someone who’s comfortable being in that type of limelight and position right. It’s very difficult,” said Moore. A new speaker and deputy speaker will be chosen Tuesday evening when the new council is sworn in. Gillingham is expected to announce his EPC as early as Wednesday.
