There are 11 mayoral candidates in the 2024 Regina civic elections. 980 CJME sent out a Q&A to each candidate. The election is on Nov. 13, 2024.

Bill Pratt

Hometown: Regina

What superpower would you choose: The ability to infuse kindness in others.

Why do you want to be Mayor of Regina?

Regina is my hometown. It’s a tremendous city with tremendous potential. The past four years have taken Regina down a bad path. It’s a path we cannot stay on. Regina is underperforming against its potential. I’m running to be mayor to bring us forward with a vision that is as bold as it is achievable.

How do you plan to address homelessness, given it’s not solely a municipal responsibility?

The Mayor must champion solutions to homelessness, bringing key partners to the table and ensuring collaboration. This role requires a deep understanding of how charitable organizations, businesses and government can work together. I have led organizations that manage shelters, supportive housing and low-income programs.

Reducing episodic homelessness, eliminating chronic homelessness and helping individuals one by one will transform our community. It reduces vulnerability to violence and opens paths to health and stability. It lessens the strain on our justice, health and social systems — freeing resources for community growth. It’s about creating a safe, supportive Regina where everyone has the chance to thrive.

At the heart of this collaborative approach is an economic growth plan that improves the quality of life for all. A vibrant, growing business community benefits everyone and gives us greater flexibility to tackle the complex social issues facing our city — like drug use, homelessness and crime — as well as fostering positive engagement through recreation and community building.

What makes you hopeful?

My whole life has been driven by a principle: tomorrow will be better than today. This belief in what is possible fuels my optimism.

Regina has enormous potential. We have dedicated individuals, outstanding organizations and thriving businesses. Our community is filled with incredible talent and a strong desire for improvement. These are the right elements for a hopeful future.

What do you think should be the city’s priority given Regina’s upcoming major projects, the debt and how do you plan to fund them?

Projects that enhance residents’ quality of life are essential for keeping our city a welcoming home and an attractive destination for newcomers.

Since tax revenue is our primary funding source, it’s crucial these projects are managed responsibly to minimize tax impacts.

A key challenge we face is poor communication. Many residents tell me it feels like everything is happening at once, taxes are rising too quickly and decisions are being made without considering their broader impact. This ‘get it done at all costs’ approach cannot continue.

Looking ahead, we must collaborate closely with all levels of government, stagger new projects over time and keep Regina’s residents informed every step of the way.

Do you have a talent few people know about?

It’s not a talent — I can spin a basketball on my finger! I had a good running career and am now a good swimmer.

What are the top three items you would address in your first 100 days as Mayor?

Drawing on my experience as a leader who has stepped into organizations who were under performing against their potential, I know the importance of the first 100 days. They set the tone.

It will be a journey that lays the groundwork for positive working relationships over the next four years.

I will focus on rebuilding the connection between the Mayor, the city manager, the senior executive team and all city employees. It’s essential for the administration to have the space to excel in their roles while the council focuses on its responsibilities.

I will work with the council to ensure we come together to understand our role over the next four years. It is mission-critical we are working together. Our city cannot afford another four years of divisive, conflict-ridden decision-making.

I will engage with key stakeholders across our city and invite them to join me on this 100-day journey.

At the end of 100 days, I will report back on how I have achieved clear alignment and a shared commitment to collaboration, so we can see Regina reach its full potential.

How do you plan to address the challenges of population growth in areas like infrastructure, housing, and public services?

Growth is vital for our city to realize its full potential and we must be proactive in managing this expansion.

With growth comes high expectations. Our residents want a city that works efficiently for them and they understandably feel frustrated by construction delays, poor communication and a lack of a clear vision.

We need to ensure our public transportation system meets our needs and that our infrastructure can handle the growth. It is a balancing act between growth and affording what is necessary to support it.

For example, inspiring a better Regina includes enhancing our transit system. A reliable, accessible and well-functioning transit system is vital to our community’s growth and well-being. Buses provide a positive environmental impact and reduce traffic congestion. They also serve as a form of community connection for those who use them.

As Mayor of Regina, I will prioritize building a positive, transparent relationship with the city administration through the city manager. By clearly communicating our vision and expectations for future growth to the administration and our citizens, we can work together to create a responsive city that meets the challenges of growth head-on.

What is the most embarrassing song on your playlist? 

Nothing on my playlist embarrasses me! I have a diverse and eclectic mix of songs that each hold a special meaning for me. From nostalgic tracks that take me back to high school, or ones that remind me of unforgettable date nights or fun times with friends, each one has its place.

Sure, some might raise an eyebrow at my love for 70s and 80s pop or guilty pleasure dinner music. That’s the beauty of music — it’s personal and subjective. Whether it’s a high-energy anthem from my sporting days or a sentimental tune from a cherished memory, I proudly own my playlist!

How will you engage residents to increase municipal voter turnout in Regina?

Municipal voter turnout is historically quite low in Regina and my objective is to inspire citizens to vote. I want them to go to the polls asking who has inspired them to support a better Regina.

People want to hear about the future. They want a vision, not just a to-do list or a focus on one or two specific issues.

In response to this, I have created a bold and achievable vision for Regina’s future. This vision calls on every resident, every business and every community organization to join in building a Regina we can all be proud of — one that offers opportunity, safety and a welcoming spirit to everyone who calls it home.

When people are inspired by a better future, they will vote.

What would you tell your 21-year-old self?

I would tell myself to ignore the naysayers and listen to your own voice more. Your instincts are right. Believe in yourself and be bold with your goals to inspire a better world.