Mayoral candidate criticized for living outside Winnipeg

A mayoral candidate faced criticism for residing outside Winnipeg while running in the upcoming civic election. Mike Vogiatzakis, the candidate, lives in the Rural Municipality of St. Andrews, approximately 25 kilometers north of Winnipeg, in a community with its own local leadership. Vogiatzakis stated that he owns a home in Winnipeg and has investments in the city, emphasizing his commitment to the community.

To be eligible for the election, candidates must be a resident of Winnipeg or a property owner in the city for at least six months. Other candidates, including Mayor Scott Gillingham, voiced concerns about a candidate with a primary residence outside of Winnipeg, stating that it would be ideal for mayoral candidates to already live in the city.

However, not all candidates agreed with this view, with some pledging to change the registration process to require mayoral candidates to have a primary residence in Winnipeg. Despite the debate, candidates continue to compete for the position, acknowledging that while living outside the city may be a political liability, it is not sufficient to guarantee defeat.