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- calendar_today October 12, 2026
St. Vital Prepares for a New Councillor as Mayes Retires
St. Vital, a southeastern Winnipeg ward, is gearing up for a wide-open race to fill the city council seat being vacated by longtime councillor Brian Mayes. After serving 15 years, Mayes is retiring from his city post and seeking a position as a school trustee, sparking keen interest among local candidates.
Mayes and Sigurdson Aim for a Career Swap
Brian Mayes is not leaving public service altogether; he is running for trustee in the Louis Riel School Division. Chris Sigurdson, a 16-year trustee in the division and childhood friend of Mayes, is making a bid for Mayes' city council seat. The two are effectively attempting a job exchange, with Mayes endorsing Sigurdson for councillor.
Meet the Candidates: Varied Backgrounds, Shared Ambition
The race features three distinct contenders. Chris Sigurdson, the criminal defence lawyer and veteran school trustee, has built campaign experience from four previous trustee elections. He is also backed by the Winnipeg Labour Council and the United Firefighters of Winnipeg. Sigurdson, who has ties to both the provincial NDP and federal Liberal Party, says his roles as a lawyer and trustee have prepared him to address community issues at city hall. He views concerns over infill development and residential traffic from construction as pressing issues for the ward.
Doug Reimer, a newcomer to municipal politics, brings a business background as vice-president and general manager at a company that manufactures and sells industrial and medical gases. Although Reimer declined to name his employer, it is described as a longstanding Winnipeg business. Reimer places a high priority on making infill development less contentious, reducing crime, improving transit, building a satellite police station, and protecting the tree canopy. He is running as an independent and acknowledges a tougher task running against a seasoned candidate like Sigurdson.
Season Kirkwood, another candidate, has a history in both transportation and land-based education. A former Winnipeg Transit driver and Métis council member, Kirkwood's business took off during the pandemic, offering expertise in hunting, foraging, and Red River Métis history. She emphasizes the need for councilors with knowledge of land, culture, and community. Her goals include restoring the No. 55 transit loop, repairing sidewalks, growing the tree canopy, expanding bike infrastructure, and addressing bike theft. She believes her grassroots approach distinguishes her from the other candidates.
Primary Issues: Infill, Transit, and Community Connection
All three candidates list infill development among the most important topics in this st vital council election. Sigurdson and Reimer both mention residents’ concerns over how new developments fit with neighborhood character and the impact of construction-related traffic. Transit improvements are another focus, with both Kirkwood and Reimer pledging to make transportation better for seniors and those with mobility challenges. Kirkwood also highlights environmental issues and community safety as part of her campaign platform.
Election Process and Timeline
Advance voting is now open across all Winnipeg wards, including St. Vital. Municipal election day is set for October 28, 2026. The outcome will mark a significant transition for the ward, as the new councillor will succeed Brian Mayes, whose retirement and attempt at a career exchange adds a unique dynamic to this year's race. Voters will also have a chance to decide on several other municipal and school trustee positions, underscoring the broader importance of this election cycle for the community.
Source: cbc.ca.
