New Series Shines the Spotlight on Westman

New Series Shines the Spotlight on Western Manitoba

Westman Zone is pleased to present an exciting new interview series focusing on events, news, and everything concerning Western Manitobans. The series is called “In Conversation With…” It’s designed to promote the southwestern part of the keystone province and we’ll do so by sitting down with everyone from business owners to city or town dignitaries, coaches to event coordinators and more.

The first edition of “In Conversation With…” is an exclusive 4-part interview with Brandon’s Mayor Jeff Fawcett. In this conversation, we cover everything from Mayor Fawcett’s day-to-day schedule might look like to his plans for the growth of the Wheat City. Other key topics we touch on include tourism for Brandon and Westman, city taxes and inflation, the growing homelessness issue, and Mayor Fawcett’s vision for inclusiveness within our community.

Listed below are the questions prepared for this exclusive interview with Brandon’s Mayor Jeff Fawcett which was filmed in his office located on the second floor of Brandon City Hall. Major thanks go out to Rob Lovatt from Keywest Photo and Shau Cao (Shawn) Production Coordinator for Westman Communications Group. Rob and Shawn operated the cameras used to capture this interview. The interview is available in 4 parts on Westman Zone’s YouTube Channel or, click/tap on the still photos below.

Westman Zone's Frank McGwire (pictured left) "In Conversation With" Brandon's recently elected Mayor Jeff Fawcett. (Photo credit: Rob Lovatt Keywest Photo)

Part 1 covers topics such as Mayor Fawcett’s daily routine and his inspirations for the most important plans for Brandon.

In part 2 we discuss things Brandon is known for and the biggest challenges for achieving growth for the city of Brandon.

In part 3 the main topics of discussion are taxes, Brandon’s future growth, and Westman as a major agricultural sector.

Part 4 covers the mayor’s thoughts on Brandon being regarded as a retirement community, and what can be done to improve the tourism aspect of the Wheat City.

If you are part of an upcoming development or event in your town that you feel could use some extra exposure, we welcome you to reach out and we’ll coordinate a Q & A session to be broadcast on Westman Zone via our YouTube channel. Please feel free to get in touch with us by emailing thezone@westmanzone.com or Frank@westmanzone.com

1. If I opened your day planner to the first date after your election victory, what would that first day on your schedule as Mayor of Brandon look like?

2. Moving forward, how do you envision your daily routine?

3. What will be your first major order of business for the city of Brandon?

4. You served on city council for 12 years before officially running for Mayor. When did you first aspire to become the Mayor of Brandon?

5. What are the qualities that a mayor needs to be effective?

6. What are your most important plans for this community?

7. What are the main challenges that you foresee in this role?

8. Who is your inspiration?

9. What do you consider the most successful event in your life?

10. What brings you the most joy in life?

11. Lots of people from all walks of life have opinions about what Brandon needs to become a better city. Whether it’s a business, factory, organization, service, or whatever, what do you think would be the best new thing for Brandon?

12. You’ve always been not just a fan but a cheerleader and extroverted supporter of the arts for Brandon. How do you think this city ranks in terms of offering those types of events and services? What grade what you give Brandon in terms of the arts and entertainment scene?

13. When it comes to the homeless issue in Brandon it could be summed up as a sign of the times which essentially is a combination of inflation and other more serious issues such as broken homes and even drug addiction. The truth is most every city is dealing with the growing problem of homelessness. What are your plans to deal with this problem that is affecting more and more people with each passing year?

14. Let’s talk budgeting. What are your plans to get Brandon’s financial house in order?

15. Shortly after he was elected, your predecessor (Mayor Chrest) hit Brandon homeowners with a huge hike on their water bills. Do you have any plans on increasing taxes in any way to help with the city’s overall fiscal picture?

16. Housing completions including apartments and condos are trending downward, not only here in Brandon but right across the province. Where do you see Brandon’s growth in the next five years and what are the main ways to ensure that growth?

17. Brandon has always been looked at not only as a retirement community but a big prairie town. After all, our main moniker is “The Wheat City.” How does that classification sit with you?

18. Tourism is always a big boon for any city to grow from. How can Brandon improve in this area?

19. What positive trend in Brandon within the last five years are you most proud of?

20. Do you aspire to attain a career beyond civic politics?

Pictured L - R: Westman Zone's Frank McGwire with Mayor Jeff Fawcett. (Photo Credit: Rob Lovatt Keywest Photo)