Charter Amendment Proposal Introduced at City Council
Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham introduced a notice of motion during Thursday’s city council meeting, urging the province to amend the City of Winnipeg Charter. The proposed amendment would allow for a paid leave of absence for elected officials who are charged with criminal offenses.
Gillingham stated that the motion is intended to address situations where legal proceedings against public servants create distractions for municipal operations. He argued that the change would help maintain public trust while respecting the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, allowing officials to retain their positions during the pendency of charges.
The mayor indicated that the city council will consider the motion at the first regular meeting following the Oct. 28 municipal election.
Councilor Russ Wyatt’s Legal Challenges Prompt Motion
The proposal follows recent legal issues faced by Transcona Coun. Russ Wyatt, who registered to run for re-election despite facing multiple criminal charges.
According to city records, Wyatt was charged in August with sexual assault and administering a noxious substance regarding an incident that occurred in October 2023. He also faces previous charges related to similar offenses tied to allegations from a gathering in 2025.
Under the current City of Winnipeg Charter rules, council members automatically forfeit their seats only upon conviction of certain serious criminal offenses. The charter does not mandate removal or leave when charges are merely laid.
Union leaders, the mayor, and several other councillors have publicly urged Wyatt to step aside from his council role to deal with the pending charges.
Wyatt Declines to Comment on Allegations
During Thursday’s meeting, Coun. Wyatt attended but declined to answer specific questions regarding the allegations against him. He referred inquiries about the motion to his lawyer.
Wyatt stated that he stands by his decision to run for re-election despite the ongoing legal proceedings.