City files Statement of Claim and Notice of Motion on WPS Headquarters Project

Released: January 6, 2020 at 12:42 p.m.

Winnipeg, MB – Today, the City of Winnipeg filed a Statement of Claim and a Notice of Motion with the Manitoba Court of Queen’s Bench in relation to the construction of the WPS Headquarters Project (Project), based on allegations that one or more persons involved with the Project may have engaged in fraudulent activity.

"Since taking office, I have worked diligently with my Council colleagues and our Public Service to hold people accountable and protect the interests of Winnipeg taxpayers,” said Mayor Brian Bowman. “Today's legal actions represent another step toward ensuring individuals are held to account."

The City has been taking steps to probe these allegations independently as best as possible with the tools available, to determine if there was sufficient evidence to proceed with legal action to recover damages. Following the announcement by the Manitoba Prosecution Service (MPS) on December 13, 2019 that no criminal charges would be laid in connection with the investigation, the City determined it is now necessary to file the Statement of Claim and Notice of Motion in order to protect the City’s interests.

“The decision by the MPS to not proceed with criminal charges did not end the matter,” said Michael Jack, Chief Corporate Services Officer for the City of Winnipeg. “The City has the right to seek damages to protect its interests when it has suffered loss or damages as a result of an alleged fraud or negligent conduct.”

In addition, the City previously filed a Statement of Claim regarding deficiencies with the construction of the Project. That Statement of Claim is still before the court and working its way through the legal system.

Was this information helpful?

How can we make this web page better?

Information collected will be used to improve our website. Do not use this form to submit a request for service or information because it will not be forwarded to departments for response. To submit a request for service or information, contact 311.

This form is not intended to collect personal information; however, any personal information you choose to include in your comments is collected by the City of Winnipeg under the authority of section 36(1)(b) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act for the purpose of improving our website and will not be used or disclosed for any other purposes, except as authorized by law. Contact the Corporate Access and Privacy Officer by mail (City Clerk’s Department, Susan A. Thompson Building, 510 Main Street, Winnipeg MB, R3B 1B9) or by telephone (311) if you have any questions about the collection of this information.