A city councillor just called a local cycling group as ‘bicycle nazis’

When it comes to local government meetings addressing bike lanes, outcomes can be unpredictable, often leaning towards the negative. A recent incident at a public meeting in Toronto underscored this unpredictability when one attendee expressed frustration, even going as far as expressing a desire to harm cyclists impeding his commute. Now, in the bustling city of Winnipeg, Manitoba, a city councillor, not just an ordinary member of the public, referred to the local cycling advocacy group as "bicycle nazis."

Winnipeg city councillor Russ Wyatt sparked controversy for his remarks during a public works Committee meeting on April 9, where he voiced his opposition to reallocating road lanes for bicycles. Ian McCausland, a director of Bike Winnipeg’s board, pointed out that Wyatt's language violated the city council’s code of conduct, leading to calls for his removal from the committee.

“While we recognize that not every politician will agree with our proposals, we expect a respectful dialogue,” McCausland emphasized in a Global News article.

Bike Winnipeg issued a statement following the meeting, urging Wyatt’s removal and highlighting the sensible advocacy of Mark Cohoe, the executive director of the group Wyatt disparaged as "bicycle nazis." Cohoe's advocacy has earned trust from many officials and public servants.

“As the City of Winnipeg moves toward its 2050 Transportation Action Plan, Bike Winnipeg looks forward to working with the City on finding solutions that embrace those goals. Key to that success is engaging in respectful dialogue that adheres to a level of decorum that Councillor Wyatt failed to meet in the Committee meeting,” the statement read, in part.

“We as the Board of Directors for Bike Winnipeg call for an immediate removal of the Councillor from the Standing Policy Committee on Public Works in light of the seriousness of his violation of the Code of Conduct for Members of Council.”

Global News later reported Wyatt’s apology, acknowledging that his use of the term was “expressed out of a sense of frustration... but was a very poor choice of words, which I regret, and therefore at this opportunity do wish to humbly apologize for.”

As cities evolve to offer more active mobility options, aiming to reduce congestion, spur economic activity, combat climate change, and promote healthier alternatives to private cars, there's a consistent resistance from some members of the public. However, it's imperative to push forward with such initiatives for the betterment of all residents.

Kudos to Bike Winnipeg for its dedication to promoting active mobility and smart living through cycling in the Manitoba capital. If you reside in Winnipeg, consider getting involved with their efforts.