Winnipeg mayoral candidate Don Woodstock announced a commitment to increase the city’s fire and emergency medical staff on Monday, September 14, 2026. He said the additional hires would be funded by redirecting savings generated from reduced overtime expenses, positioning the plan as a fiscal measure to expand frontline personnel.
Woodstock described the proposal as part of a broader effort to overhaul the management of Winnipeg’s emergency services. By reallocating overtime cost savings, he intends to create new full‑time positions for both firefighters and paramedics, aiming to improve response times and overall service coverage throughout the city.
The candidate presented the staffing initiative during a campaign event focused on public safety. He emphasized that strengthening emergency response capabilities is a priority for his administration, and that the proposed changes would be implemented alongside other reforms designed to modernize city operations.
Woodstock’s pledge arrives as part of his mayoral platform, which includes several proposals aimed at enhancing municipal services. The promise to add emergency personnel reflects his focus on leveraging existing budget efficiencies to address staffing shortfalls without raising taxes or increasing overall expenditures. The plan remains subject to council approval and further financial analysis as the election campaign progresses.