Episode 6 - Full City Council Update! Bike Lanes, Transit and 30 Km/h

Episode 9 - Let's Talk About Money, Babe!

If you’d like to support us please head over to https://patreon.com/herproblem?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink [https://patreon.com/herproblem?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink] Also head over to BallotBabes.com [http://BallotBabes.com] and fill out our survey about your city councillor and send us a voice-memo while you’re at it! What if you understood how municipal money could actually change the way we build our future? This week we have a special guest joining us, Winnipeg’s municipal finance expert Michel Durand-Wood, who unlocks the secrets most voters and even some politicians don’t see, revealing how city infrastructure costs are piling up decades before we realize it, and how understanding these numbers can help you make smarter choices at the ballot box. In this episode, you'll discover how municipal budgets really work, and why most election promises don’t account for the long-term costs they create. Michel explains why city debt isn’t “bad,” but a part of a much bigger picture involving infrastructure, urban planning, and sustainable growth.  We break down complicated concepts like capital versus operating budgets, infrastructure investment, and tax strategies with surprising clarity, showing how these financial secrets directly impact your daily life, from streets and parks to transit and water. You’ll learn how the development patterns of the past have locked cities into cycles of debt, costing billions in future taxes and maintenance, bringing to light the real price of growth. Michel shares practical steps for voters, candidates, and community members to get involved and advocate for transparent, responsible city finances.  More importantly, he reveals that the person with the real power to make change, is… wait for it, YOU! This episode is perfect for anyone frustrated by long-term infrastructure costs, confused by election promises, or eager to see their city become more affordable, sustainable, and livable.  Whether you're a concerned citizen, a city council watcher, or a future voter, Michel’s insights help you see the city’s financial health clearly and act accordingly, because your voice and your vote can shape a smarter, more resilient Winnipeg. Michel Durand-Wood is the creator of Dear Winnipeg and author of “You’ll Pay for This!” known for translating complex municipal finance into plain language that everyone can understand. His work helps cities across North America recognize that infrastructure isn't just about roads, it's about the future of communities built on solid, responsible finances. Let’s build smarter cities together, because the future depends on it. Links: The City Project Book Series: https://thecityproject.org/ [https://thecityproject.org/] Patty’s website: www.pattybikes.com [http://www.pattybikes.com] Sam’s website: https://www.smbeiko.com/ [https://www.smbeiko.com/]

Episode 8 - The Drama at City Hall & Your Feedback!

Fill out our survey here: https://forms.gle/bsivsQH63A4qWcSq5 [https://forms.gle/bsivsQH63A4qWcSq5]  Our website is www.ballotbabes.com [http://www.ballotbabes.com]  Uncover the real stories behind Winnipeg's city hall drama—where politics, community, and controversy collide. This episode dives deep into the recent scandal involving Councillor Russ Wyatt, the struggle for transparency, and the courage of politicians like Cindy Gilroy and Brian Mayes making a difference. From high-stakes council votes and grassroots activism to innovative ideas like bike-friendly urbanism and youth voting, this episode is a must-listen for anyone serious about city politics and community change.You [http://change.You]'ll discover: * The details of Councillor Wyatt’s charges and the city's response * How citizen voices are shaping election campaigns, including the bold push for youth voting rights * Inspirational stories of grassroots leadership, like Libby’s petition and Cindy Gilroy’s activism * The economic and environmental savings of bike lanes, and why they matter for your wallet and the planet * Insights from city councilors who are evolving, and those who could use a serious reboot

Episode 7 - Women on Council and Who's Running in 2026?

Tell us the good, the bad and the ugly about your City Councillor here:  If you don’t know what ward you’re in, check it out here: https://www.winnipeg.ca/city-governance/wards-elections/council-wards-map [https://www.winnipeg.ca/city-governance/wards-elections/council-wards-map]  In today’s episode, we will talk about the Empowering Women event at City Hall, and share some speculations of who’s running in Winnipeg’s 2026 civic elections. We would also love to hear what you think about your city councillor! Are they doing a good job or are you frustrated with the way things are going in your neighbourhood? Tell us everything by filling out this form and we’ll be sure to give you feedback in upcoming episodes. https://forms.gle/JgTk2tbUR4xUi1HE9 [https://forms.gle/JgTk2tbUR4xUi1HE9] Key Topics Candidate eligibility and registration deadlines Profiles of mayoral and council candidates The election process and voting tips Community involvement and political engagement Historical milestones in Winnipeg's city council Links Our website: https://www.pattybikes.com/ballot-babes [https://www.pattybikes.com/ballot-babes] Chapters 00:00 Empowering Women in Local Politics 02:54 Campaign Strategies and Community Engagement 05:36 Challenges Faced by Women in Politics 08:16 The Role of School Trustees 11:11 Speculations on Upcoming Elections 19:58 Candidate Overview and Insights 27:14 City Council Dynamics and Incumbents 34:27 Understanding Paper Candidates and Their Impact

Episode 6 - Full City Council Update! Bike Lanes, Transit and 30 Km/h

Welcome to Episode 6 of Ballot Babes—the podcast you wish you didn’t need, but absolutely do. We’re here to devour, discuss, and digest everything happening at Winnipeg City Hall with wit, sarcasm, and a healthy dose of skepticism. ✨ Support the show: Visit BallotBabes.com [http://BallotBabes.com] and hit the Patreon link! Support us for as little as $3/month. A huge thank you to our newest patron, Robyn—queen of getting things DONE. We appreciate you! ---------------------------------------- IN THIS EPISODE There’s a lot going on, and we are so here for it. 🏛️ FULL COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS We break down the latest meeting with clips and commentary from: * Councillor Duncan * Councillor Lukes * Councillor Durand-Wood * Several delegates weighing in 🚌 WINNIPEG TRANSIT UPDATE We’re talking about the provincial budget’s announcement of free transit for youth—and what council had to say about it. ☎️ LISTENER CALLS We play and discuss your calls on: * How to support people running for office * Voting records * How to raise issues with the City of Winnipeg 🚗 SPEED LIMIT DEBATE The motion to ask the province for a 40 km/h default citywide speed limit, plus: * Browaty’s poll * Delegate feedback * Pedestrian safety concerns, including a recent fatality at Main & Dufferin 🚲 WELLINGTON CRESCENT SAGA We cover: * The latest debate * Key councillor clips * Why the bike lane fight isn’t over * Councillor Rollins’ new motion * Councillor Lukes’ timeline for permanent design and construction Do we believe construction will actually happen in 2027? …We discuss. ---------------------------------------- ⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING: SEXUAL ASSAULT CHARGES (FINAL SEGMENT OF EPISODE) We save this topic for last so you can watch the rest of the episode if this content is triggering. We discuss recent news involving: * A sitting Winnipeg city councillor * A former Winnipeg city councillor and provincial cabinet minister ---------------------------------------- 🗳️ REMEMBER WINNIPEG… City Council works for you. And this October—don’t just get mad. Take your Babe to Vote. ---------------------------------------- 🔗 RESOURCES & LINKS Search votes by councillor: https://legacy.winnipeg.ca/council/VIS/members [https://legacy.winnipeg.ca/council/VIS/members] Event link – Empowering Women in Winnipeg (April 11): https://janicelukes.ca/blog/empowering-women-in-winnipeg/ [https://janicelukes.ca/blog/empowering-women-in-winnipeg/] Bike Winnipeg – Active Transportation Info: https://www.bikewinnipeg.ca/active-transportation-a-key-piece-of-winnipegs-climate-solution/ [https://www.bikewinnipeg.ca/active-transportation-a-key-piece-of-winnipegs-climate-solution/] ----------------------------------------

Episode 5 - What did Scott Gillingham say about Seniors?

If you are feeling lost in the maze of Winnipeg politics, you're not alone. Many people don’t understand how municipal decisions impact their daily lives. But do not panic! The Ballot Babes are here!  Our goal is to discuss the pressing political issues in Winnipeg leading up to the election on October 28th. This podcast will equip you with practical knowledge and a deeper understanding of the decisions shaping your community. In this episode we take calls from listeners regarding Winnipeg Transit and we dive deep into the latest Executive Policy Committee meeting, focusing on issues of safe speeds and the bike lane project on Wellington Crescent. If you didn’t have a chance to watch the latest meeting, we have digested and collected THE BEST “little videos” to help you understand: 1. An amazing delegation from University of Manitoba’s Professor Richard Milgrom explaining why a pilot project is the best form of public engagement; 2. Councillor Evan Duncan’s AMAZEMENT and condescension at a delegate’s preference to have the pilot project completed and give away 5.5 million to other, more pressing needs. 3. How the mayor, Scott Gillingham feels about senior citizens who want to use active transportation; 4. What Councillor Jeff Browaty thinks about slowing down the speed limit in residential streets; Links: Ballot Babes Website - Support Us and Leave us a Message! https://www.pattybikes.com/ballot-babes [https://www.pattybikes.com/ballot-babes]  Full Executive Policy Committee Meeting https://youtu.be/_GoMvb7Zfug?si=JANUdFFZX8dII6Z1 [https://youtu.be/_GoMvb7Zfug?si=JANUdFFZX8dII6Z1]  Learn more about Sam’s books at www.smbeiko.com [http://www.smbeiko.com] Pre-order her new book here: https://ecwpress.com/products/sleuth-of-ferren-city?_pos=5&_sid=4edeea6bf&_ss=r [https://ecwpress.com/products/sleuth-of-ferren-city?_pos=5&_sid=4edeea6bf&_ss=r] Patty’s website: https://www.pattybikes.com/ [https://www.pattybikes.com/]  Order Patty’s book here: https://www.mcnallyrobinson.com/9781773371399/patty-wiens/thatll-never-work-here [https://www.mcnallyrobinson.com/9781773371399/patty-wiens/thatll-never-work-here]  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Local Politics 01:22 Reviewing City Hall's Recent Events 04:49 Feedback on Winnipeg Transit 09:26 Budget Priorities and Police Spending 10:27 City Hall's Executive Policy Committee Meeting 18:54 Community Engagement and Delegations 26:38 Expert Opinions on Infrastructure 28:17 Mayor's Comments on Seniors and Infrastructure 33:37 Speed Limit Discussions and Community Safety 41:42 Community Meetings and Civic Engagement 48:51 BallotBabes_Animation.mp4 48:55 NEWCHAPTER #Winnipeg #MunicipalProjects #CityBudget #Infrastructure #CommunityEngagement #Housing #PublicTrust #CityCouncil #UrbanPlanning #PublicPolicy #Transportation #CommunitySafety #BikeLanes #SpeedLimits #PublicEngagement