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.

Rod Williams

Hometown: Regina, I was raised in Radville!

Embarrassing playlist song: Oh boy maybe the Carpenters! Karen Carpenter’s songs remind me of my father and mother in a younger day!

Why do you want to be Mayor of Regina?

I believe my life experiences, hockey background regarding teamwork work playing for the greater good and my 35-year career at Ipsco/Evraz my strong work ethic have led me to my campaign platform.

My message is strong its priorities first and affordability living within our means.

I believe I’m the right person to deliver fiscal responsibility to Regina citizens and taxpayers!

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

Homelessness is both disheartening and tragic!

It’s almost an epidemic if it isn’t already.

Good hard-working people are homeless through no fault of their own.

Mental illness and addiction also creates and causes this dilemma.

I like the purchase of the Eagles Club.

That’s a start.

With winter coming, it’s even more imperative to address quickly!

I don’t support injection sites however I’m 100 per cent behind treating those suffering to help heal.

Food bank usage in Regina is 17,000 a month and 41 per cent are children.

We have to reverse this trend! We must do better.

That’s why I don’t support the aquatic center or pool.

That money or some of it should be for this cause!

Its priorities first and homelessness is a huge priority.

What makes you hopeful?

My candidacy is based on priorities of affordability and living within our means.

My message is good however I may or may not reach enough citizens!

For far too, long some politicians or leaders get caught up trying to be everything to everyone and then fail at most things.

This council was irresponsible with the taxpayer’s money.

They failed us.

I want to be that person who saves Reginans money to help make their lives easier.

I’m NO to any debt ceiling raise!

Regina 226,404 thousand people.

I’m guessing there is only half that may or may not pay taxes!

That number is just too big $273.6 million with operating costs for the pool.

It’s helped my message and voter understanding for sure.

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?

The library is very important. It’s a great place to relax, get educated and fact find.

It’s a great escape to just chill as well.

It’s imperative for new Canadians as well.

I’m not sure if a new one would fit our budget after the pool commitment, however, it is something I will address in my first 100 days.

Do you have a talent few people know about?

Those who know me know I do great impersonations mostly work colleague’s who get it!

I’m very passionate about Canada and Saskatchewan!

It’s time we build that for Regina too.

What superpower would you want?

N/A

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

Meet with business leaders and owners!

Start addressing homelessness with mental health groups, FSIN and see what the books really are going forward.

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

Our city will not grow enough if we don’t lower taxes on mill rates or renting.

We want businesses to move here because their plan will make money and add value!

Then watch young families build their lives with us.

The mindset must be to move here because they want to not because they have to.

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

Turnout reminds citizens it’s their city too and here is your chance!

I believe this is the year it is higher!

The people at the doors are more engaged and it’s in the air for change!

We gave Mayor Fougere 2nd term when he started this click and he forgot about the taxpayer.

It’s in the air for change.

Looking back, what would you tell your 21-year-old self?

Twenty-one-year-old self? Hmm, don’t sweat the small stuff focus on the moment because it’s fleeting!