Steinbach city councillor Michael Zwaagstra says there is no intent on his part to establish party politics at city hall. Zwaagstra, along with Susan Penner and Earl Funk, this week voted against the city's new budget because it contains funding for the performing arts centre. The three also voted against a resolution to apply for a federal grant for the arts centre. And, on a separate issue, regarding the city buying back a parcel of land in the industrial park, the trio also voted against the proposal. But Zwaagstra says this is more of a coincidence than a pattern.

Michael Zwaagstra"I would say that all members of council vote as individuals. There are obviously some issues where members of council will have a similar view and so then, obviously, one would expect voting the same way. So, for example, in terms of the Performing Arts Centre, I have been clear about my position as have councillor Susan Penner and councillor Earl Funk so, obviously, on issues of that nature we have taken the same position."

As for the vote on the land purchase, Zwaagstra says he always tries to make convincing arguments during council debate to try and sway others to support his position.

"As we know, during council meetings, I always attempt to make the best case that I possibly can for my position. And I think this speaks for all of us, that every member of council, our attempt is that when we believe we have a position that is correct, we're obviously going to seek to persuade other members of council that our view is right. That is how debating and democracy is supposed to work. As far as specific issues, I've been clear that I will vote the way that I think is right. Sometimes I vote the same way as other members of council and sometimes I vote differently and that's not going to change."

On the three votes noted above, the Mayor and three other councillors all voted in favour Tuesday so they were passed by a margin of 4-3.