Mayor Brian Bowman has approved a budget that is forcing the proposed closures of libraries (including the Fort Garry library) pools, and arenas among many other severe cuts. He as well as other members of the city council and EPC have responded to feedback with generic, unsatisfactory responses. The mayor has lauded that this process offers the public the “unprecedented opportunity to have greater input in the budget process”. However when I have tried to provide input, my concerns have been ignored.

The Fort Garry library has been a pillar of the community for decades and is where children's and summer programs are delivered. Over 90,000 people use this service and space annually. It is a place that community members rely on as a source of information, entertainment, resources for students, as well as a place to help people join or rejoin the workforce via the computers and internet access.

I think taking away libraries, community centers and the public spaces that have been proposed in this budget shows a complete lack of creativity on the part of Winnipeg's politicians, a lack of foresight and a misalignment of political priorities compared to public will.

Before the budget is approved in March, please make your voice heard and exercise your “unprecedented opportunity to have greater input in the budget process“!