Steinbach city councillor Susan Penner is the first incumbent to announce she will seek re-election this fall. Penner is nearing the end of her first four-year term on council and says she was able to accomplish what she set out to do.

"I believe I followed through with my campaign promise of working to keep debt and taxes low and that is the same I am planning for this election. However, it is a challenge for a rapidly growing city like Steinbach."

For example, Penner says the city's share of RCMP costs will rise to 90% when the population hits 15,000, something that is expected to happen in the next few years. She adds growth is also putting pressure on things like the road system and she would like to see some improvements.

"I would like to see Park Road east and west completely paved and also Old Tom Road to alleviate the congestion on Highway #12. I know that is a comment I hear a lot, how much traffic there is. So, if we can do something to alleviate the stress there, I would be for that."

Penner adds there is also a need for improved recreational facilities but cautions that the city will need help from the senior levels of government and the private sector to make that work. She says these various financial pressures require councillors like her who are focused on careful planning and spending.

Penner recently completed her MBA and owns business consulting firm Guideline Marketing. She and her husband Jon are also a part of the ownership group of The LumberZone.