WINNIPEG, Manitoba — Scott Gillingham has won a second term as mayor of Winnipeg after defeating 11 other candidates in the city’s municipal election on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. His re-election gives him another four years at City Hall as Winnipeg continues to grapple with public safety concerns, homelessness, transit challenges and the rising cost of municipal services.
Gillingham, who first became mayor in 2022, secured approximately 39.8 per cent of the vote, according to unofficial election results reported by the Winnipeg Free Press. Former Manitoba cabinet minister Kevin Klein finished second with about 20.7 per cent, while Noah Redden followed with approximately 18.7 per cent. Mike Vogiatzakis placed fourth with close to 10 per cent.
The election was part of municipal voting across Manitoba, where communities selected local leaders and council representatives to oversee services, budgets and infrastructure priorities.
Gillingham Secures Another Term at City Hall
Gillingham’s victory follows a campaign centered on public safety, housing, transit and municipal affordability. During his first term, Winnipeg City Council dealt with several major issues, including changes to the transit system, infrastructure upgrades and the reopening of the Portage and Main intersection to pedestrians.
The mayor’s campaign emphasized continuing existing initiatives while addressing concerns raised by residents about crime, homelessness, addiction and the availability of support services.
Following his victory, Gillingham acknowledged that residents who voted for other candidates also had concerns that the incoming administration would need to address. He pledged to serve the entire city during his second term.
Public Safety Remains a Major Priority
Public safety featured prominently in the mayoral campaign. Gillingham promised to support additional police recruitment to keep pace with Winnipeg’s growing population and continue developing the city’s Community Crisis Response Service.
The proposed service is intended to provide an alternative response to certain non-emergency calls involving mental health and addictions when there is no immediate danger.
Gillingham also committed to working with the federal government on bail-related changes affecting repeat offenders. On public transit, his platform included continuing the installation of protective shields for bus operators and expanding the role of community safety officers.
These commitments will require coordination with city council, public safety agencies and other levels of government as the new administration works to implement its plans.
Housing, Homelessness and Property Taxes Under Scrutiny
Housing and homelessness were also important issues during the election. Gillingham pledged to continue working with the provincial government and community partners to support people experiencing homelessness, including efforts to move residents from encampments into housing.
Downtown revitalization and access to addiction and mental health services are expected to remain part of Winnipeg’s municipal policy discussions.
Affordability was another central campaign issue. In his costed platform, Gillingham proposed limiting the property-tax increase to 3.5 per cent in 2027, with increases over the following three years kept close to the inflation rate.
The proposal comes after criticism over a previous property-tax increase that exceeded his pledge during the 2022 campaign. The new council will face the challenge of balancing residents’ concerns about taxes with demands for reliable services, infrastructure investment and public safety.
New Faces Expected on Winnipeg City Council
The municipal election also determined representation across Winnipeg’s 15 council wards and six school divisions.
Nine new councillors are expected to join city council, while several incumbents lost their seats. The changes will shape discussions about municipal spending, transportation, neighbourhood services and development during the coming term.
Across Manitoba, municipalities also held elections for local leadership and council positions. Results are reported by individual municipalities, meaning provincewide election updates may be finalized at different times.
What Comes Next for Winnipeg?
Gillingham’s second term begins with expectations that his administration will turn campaign commitments into practical policies. Residents will be watching how the city addresses public safety, homelessness, transit operations, infrastructure needs and property-tax pressures.
The mayor’s re-election provides continuity in Winnipeg’s leadership, but delivering on campaign promises will depend on budget decisions, council support and cooperation with provincial and federal partners.
As the new municipal term takes shape, the focus will shift from election promises to the decisions that affect Winnipeg neighbourhoods and residents’ everyday lives.
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