The City of Winnipeg’s Writing Style Guide is a resource on how to write materials to ensure consistency in terminology and writing style.
It's meant for those who write on behalf of the City.
The Writing Style Guide is a living document – it will be continually edited and updated.
Voice & tone
The City’s voice is its identity – it’s a reflection of our brand. As such, it is important that the tone and voice used in written materials is consistent, regardless of who is drafting the content.
When writing, it is important to communicate clearly using plain language, and be personable with a focus on being knowledgeable and helpful.
Character
- Friendly
- Professional
- Helpful
Tone
- Honest
- Direct
- Genuine
Language
- Simple
Purpose
- Engage
- Educate
- Inform
Plain language
The City has a Plain Language Policy which guides writers on the use of suitable language in public-facing written materials to help ensure the intended audience can understand what is written, be better informed, and act on important information and participate.
Content must be written at a grade 8 reading level or lower if the intended audience is members of the public.
When writing, remember to:
- Use familiar words
- Use short sentences
- Use short paragraphs (as applicable)
- Use the active voice – use verbs, action words
- Avoid industry jargon, unfamiliar terms, and technical language
- Avoid acronyms & abbreviations
Spelling & grammar
It is important to ensure that spelling and grammar are correct and consistent in all materials. This section outlines several common spelling errors and how to properly use punctuation.
Common spelling errors
Avoid making common spelling errors by double-checking your document for any mistakes and using the spell check tool in Microsoft Word and Microsoft Outlook, set to English (Canada).
Commonly misused words & phrases
There are many words and phrases that are commonly used incorrectly. Ensure you are using the correct words in written materials.
| Misused word | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
Centre & center | While both words have the same meaning, centre is the correct spelling in Canada. | Correct: The community centre will remain open during the holiday season. Incorrect: The community center will remain open during the holiday season. |
Councillor, Councilor & Counsellor | Use Councillor when referring to a member of Council. In the United States, it is spelled with one "l." Counsellor refers to an attorney. | Correct: Councillor Brian Mayes, St. Vital, welcomed residents as they arrived to pick up their free compost. Incorrect: Councilor Brian Mayes, St. Vital, welcomed residents as they arrived to pick up their free compost. Counsellor Brian Mayes welcomed residents as they arrived to pick up their free compost. |
Its & it's | Its is used for possessives. It’s is a contraction meaning "it is." | Its: The recycling depot moved to its new location in 2012. It’s: It's important to protect your home from basement flooding because no matter where you live in Winnipeg, your home is at risk of basement flooding. |
License & licence | Licence is a noun, while license is a verb. In the United States, the spelling “license” is also used as a noun, which is why you may see it used this way. In Canada, the noun and verb have two different spellings. | License: I am now licensed to drive. Licence: I carry my driver’s licence in my wallet. |
Practice & practise | Practice is a noun, while practise is a verb. | Practice: I am dropping Jimmy off at his soccer practice at 6 p.m. Practise: I watched Jimmy practise his passing skills today. |
Principal & principle | Principal is used when referencing a person in a leadership role or to describe the importance of something. Principle is used when referring to a standard, rule, or guideline. | Principal: Mr. Smith is the principal of the elementary school. Principle: The fundamental principle of organic lawn care is that a properly maintained lawn should not need chemical inputs to thrive. |
Regardless & irregardless | Irregardless is often mistakenly used instead of regardless. By adding the prefix "ir" to regardless, you create a double negative, changing the meaning to "without without regard." | Correct: We will make sure the job is done right, regardless of any obstacles we encounter. Incorrect: We will make sure the job is done right, irregardless of any obstacles we encounter. |
There, their & they’re | There can be used as an adverb, pronoun, noun, or adjective. It is often used when indicating a place or position. Their is used when you want to show ownership of something. They’re is the conjunction for "they are." | There: There is a meeting about the project this afternoon. Their: Their project is going to be amazing. They’re: They’re going to the restaurant for lunch. Using all three: They’re going to eat their lunches over there. |
Who’s & whose | Who’s is a contraction of "who is" or "who has." Whose is a possessive pronoun used when describing whom something belongs to. | Who’s: Kelly is the person who’s in charge of updating the website. Whose: Customers whose pipes were thawed on the property owner’s portion of the water pipe are responsible to pay the full amount of the water and sewer charges. |
Would have & would of | Never use "would of"; rather, use "would have." | We would have gone with that contractor, but they did not have the experience necessary. |
Your & you’re | Your is used for possessives. You’re is a contraction meaning "you are." | Your: When is your collection day? You’re: If you’re moving into a newly constructed home, into an existing home, or out of your current home, you should know this about your garbage and recycling carts. |
Capitalization
What should be capitalized:
- Proper names / nouns
- Public Service and department names
- Council and committee names
- The first word in a sentence
- Job / occupation titles
- Acronyms
What should not be capitalized:
- Common nouns
- Conjunctions and prepositions
Examples
| Word/Category | Rule | Example |
|---|---|---|
City | No, unless referring to the organization known as the City of Winnipeg Tip: If you can replace the word “city” with “Winnipeg,” use lowercase. | Garbage collection is delayed throughout the city. The City of Winnipeg advised that garbage collection is delayed throughout the city. |
The City | Yes, when referring to the organization known as the City of Winnipeg Note: Spell it out fully on the first use and include the short form in brackets to introduce the abbreviation. Once you’ve used the abbreviation, use it consistently throughout thereafter. | Correct: The City of Winnipeg (City) will break ground on a new project today. The City says the project will cost $1 million. Incorrect: The City of Winnipeg (City) will break ground on a new project today. The city says the project will cost $1 million. Correct: From January to date, the City fixed 12 potholes. Incorrect: From January to date, The City fixed 12 potholes. |
Council & committees of Council | Always capitalize Council or City Council Capitalize proper committee names only | Correct: The matter was referred to Council. Members of the Executive Policy Committee had questions about the administrative report. Incorrect: The Community Committee meeting ran late. The Standing Policy Committee meeting is scheduled to occur next Thursday. |
Department names | Capitalize Note: Spell it out fully on the first use and include the short form in brackets to introduce the abbreviation. Once you've used the abbreviation, use it consistently throughout the document. It's recommended you not use "department," "division," "branch," "agency," or "office" as the short form, as it can become confusing if referencing multiple groups in the same document. However, if you do, "department," "agency," or "office" are not capitalized as they are not proper nouns. | Correct: The Water and Waste Department (Water and Waste) is undertaking this initiative. Representatives from Water and Waste will be meeting with other officials to discuss the matter. Incorrect: The Water and Waste Department (Water and Waste) is undertaking this initiative. Representatives from W&W will be meeting with other officials to discuss the matter. |
Division names | Capitalize | Water Services Division |
Formal titles | Capitalize | Councillor Brian Mayes, St. Vital, welcomed residents as they arrived to pick up their free compost. Brian Mayes, Councillor for St. Vital, welcomed residents as they arrived to pick up their free compost. |
Job titles | Capitalize Note: Lowercase plural use of job titles. | Correct: The Chief Administrative Officer has delegated authority in this matter. John Smith, Manager of Human Resource Services, attended the meeting. The meeting was attended by councillors Mayes and Orlikow. The paramedics treated the patient at the scene. Incorrect: The meeting was attended by Councillors Mayes and Orlikow. The Paramedics treated the patient at the scene. |
Public Service | Capitalize | The Public Service recommends that the sale of the property be approved. |
Acronyms & abbreviations
An acronym is a word formed from the initial letters, or groups of letters, of words in a set phrase or series of words and pronounced as a separate word.
- For example, automated meter reading's acronym is AMR.
Use as few acronyms as possible, and especially avoid using acronyms that are not well known.
When using acronyms and abbreviations, the following rules apply:
- Be consistent
- Make sure that you clearly define what the abbreviation or acronym stands for at the earliest opportunity within the document by spelling it out fully on the first use, and include the abbreviation or acronym in brackets beside it
- Example: Winnipeg Police Service (WPS)
- Ensure you use it often enough throughout the document that it makes sense to use it
Punctuation
Ampersands
The use of ampersands is permitted in titles and headings.
Commas
When using commas, remember:
- When there are only two items in a list, do not use a comma to separate the items
- Use a comma or a dash, but not both
| Use | Example |
|---|---|
To separate three or more items in a list Note: Use of the Oxford comma is encouraged. | City employees regularly clean, inspect, and paint hydrants to ensure they’re in working order. |
Before clauses introduced by the conjunctions | Problems are not expected, yet residents may experience discoloured water. |
To separate different ideas within a sentence | If there are no complications, we can usually repair a water main within a day. |
To separate adjectives before a noun when the commas represent the word ‘and’ | Storm retention ponds are efficient, cost-effective land drainage systems. |
To separate geographical elements Note: Do not omit the second comma. | Correct: We consulted with experts from Toronto, Ontario, during the project. Incorrect: We consulted with experts from Toronto, Ontario during the project. |
To set off the year from the month plus day | On March 12, 2017, there was a water main break at Main Street and Portage Avenue. |
To set off thousands, but not in years, street addresses, page numbers, phone numbers, or serial numbers | Correct: $1,600 Incorrect: 1,356 Fifth Ave. |
Inside closing quotation marks | “The vision of having a sustainable community has taken a huge leap forward today for the residents of east Winnipeg,” said Russ Wyatt, Councillor for Transcona. |
Outside of brackets | The North End Sewage Treatment Plant, otherwise known as the North End Water Pollution Control Centre (NEWPCC), is the City of Winnipeg's oldest and largest sewage treatment plant. |
Colons
| Use | Example |
|---|---|
When introducing lists, texts, and tables | Manitoba Conservation also requires a licence for our biosolids operation: |
In question-and-answer formats | Q: What are water mains? A: Water mains are underground pipes that carry water from the pumping stations to your street. |
To separate hours and minutes | The presentation will begin at 7:30 p.m. |
After a formal salutation | Madam Speaker: |
To separate titles and subtitles, unless the author’s form differs | Water conservation: Residential water saving tips |
When referring to a website link or email address in an imperative statement Note: Do not use punctuation following the link or email address in an imperative statement. | Learn more: winnipeg.ca/betterarlington For more information, contact: arlington@winnipeg.ca |
Semicolons
| Use | Example |
|---|---|
To separate statements too closely related to stand as separate sentences | Two bids were received from Ward & Burke; the bid under the conditions set out in the documents was $12 million. |
To separate phrases that contain commas | The winners of the school challenge were Johnny Smith, grade six; Jane Doe, grade four; and Jimmy Anderson, grade two. |
Preceding explanatory phrases when using a comma seems too weak | There is no charge to turn on water after repairs; however, there is a charge to turn on water after it was turned off for non-payment. |
Quotation marks
In general, always use double quotation marks except for headlines and quotes within a quote.
When using quotation marks, remember:
- Do not use quotation marks around single letters
- Do not use colons or semicolons inside quotation marks
| Use | Example |
|---|---|
To enclose direct quotations | “Winnipeggers can feel confident in our water system,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham. |
To begin and end each part of an interrupted quotation | “Two sets of negative test results confirm that Winnipeg’s water is safe,” said Tim Shanks, Director of Water and Waste. “Our water meets all health and safety water quality regulations and guidelines.” |
To alternate double and single marks in quotes within quotes | Mr. Smith told me, “My Councillor said, 'This is a great idea.'” |
Periods and commas inside closing quote marks | "It is heartwarming for us that this young boy draws so much pleasure and is so enthusiastic about garbage trucks and the important work that garbage collectors do," said Tim Shanks, Director of Water and Waste. |
Dashes
When using dashes, an em dash (—) is preferred, but should not be overused. To create an em dash in Microsoft Word automatically as you are drafting, type two hyphens without spaces between the words surrounding the dash then insert the spaces manually.
When using dashes, remember:
- Do not confuse hyphens and dashes
- Dashes should not be used in the same sentence as colons, semicolons, or commas
- To avoid overusing dashes, break long sentences into two shorter ones
| Use | Example |
|---|---|
To set off mid-sentence lists or explanations | The project team will discuss common problems — discoloured water, frozen pipes, water main breaks — before making its final decision. |
When using commas (preferred) would cause confusion | The treatment plants — SEWPCC and NEWPCC — are under construction. |
To attribute a quotation | Engineers like to solve problems. If there are no problems handily available, they will create their own problems. ― Scott Adams |
Hyphens
When using hyphens, remember:
- Do not confuse hyphens and dashes
- Adverbs ending in –ly are not followed by a hyphen
| Use | Example |
|---|---|
To break a word over two lines | Residents in south Winnipeg may experience delays in collection today. |
To join compound words | The fire hydrant was damaged by a hit-and-run driver. |
To avoid doubling a vowel, tripling a consonant, or duplicating a pre-fix | She was the writer-editor of the report. |
To join prefixes to proper names | The protestors at the rally were holding anti-Marxist signs. |
To write fractions | We have cleaned approximately two-thirds of water mains in the city over the past two years. |
To write numbers between 21 and 99 at the beginning of a sentence | Twenty-three employees were recognized for their outstanding achievements this year. One hundred thirty-five employees were hired this year. |
To connect dates, except when preceded by from or between | Correct: The project was completed during the 2017-18 tax year. Incorrect: The project was completed between 2016-18. |
For the minus sign in temperatures | The water main break was likely related to the -40-degree weather we experienced this week. |
| To write phone numbers | 204-986-6000 |
Brackets (parentheses)
In general, brackets should be used sparingly and other punctuation should be used when possible. If a punctuation mark applies to the whole sentence, put the mark after the closing bracket.
| Use | Example |
|---|---|
To give further details in proper names, direction quotations, etc. | The article was published in the Moose Jaw (Sask.) Times Herald. |
When numbering or lettering a series within a sentence | Once crews are on site, they a) inspect b) test and c) repair the water main. |
To introduce an abbreviation or acronym | The City of Winnipeg (City) will share project details at an announcement today. |
Exclamation points
Generally, do not use exclamation points in written materials. When writing specifically for advertisements and social media, exclamation points should only be used sparingly.
Periods
All sentences must end with a period. The only exception is sentences that contain a question and need a question mark.
Inclusive writing
Inclusive writing is writing that uses a set of principles and techniques designed to promote inclusion and eliminate discrimination.
For a comprehensive listing of key terms and concepts related to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility, refer to the Government of Canada’s Guide on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Terminology.
Words with dignity
The following are respectful terms to use when referencing people with disabilities.*
*Source: Manitoba Accessibility Office
| Use | Instead of |
|---|---|
| People with disabilities | The disabled Handicapped |
| Person with diabetes, arthritis, etc. | Afflicted with Suffers from |
| Person with a mental illness Person with a mental health issue | Mental Insane Crazy Psychotic |
| Person who is hard of hearing Person who is deaf | The hearing impaired Deaf and dumb Deaf mute |
| Person with an intellectual disability Person with a developmental disability | Mentally retarded Mentally challenged |
| Person who is blind Person who is visually impaired | The blind |
| Person with a mobility disability Person with a spinal cord injury | Physically challenged Crippled |
| Person who uses a wheelchair | Confined to a wheelchair Wheelchair bound |
| Accessible parking Accessible washrooms | Handicapped parking Handicapped washrooms |
| Person without a disability | Normal |
Gender identity or expression
It’s important to avoid unnecessary references to gender in written materials so that they are more inclusive.
Pronouns are words that refer to a person when not using their name. Gendered pronouns include she/her and he/him. Gender neutral pronouns include they/them. Neo-pronouns may be used by those who are not comfortable using the plural they/them as gender neutral pronouns – examples include ze/zir and ey/em.*
*Source: Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion’s Glossary of Terms, January 2022, version 1.1
English pronouns
| Subject | Object | Possessive | Reflexive |
|---|---|---|---|
| she | her | her/hers | herself |
| he | him | his/his | himself |
| they | them | their/theirs | themself |
| xe | xem | xyr/xyrs | xemself |
| ze | hir | hir/hirs | hirself |
French pronouns
Gender-neutral pronouns are evolving and are not yet part of standard French. The table below is non-exhaustive and is for reference purposes only.
When pronouns are unknown, it is recommended that you use gender-neutral language in written materials, such as “they,” “them,” and “theirs.” If you are not sure of an individual’s gender identity, it is recommended that you use terms such as “the person” or “the individual” in written materials.
| Pronom sujet | Pronom complément | Déterminant possessif | Pronom réfléchi |
|---|---|---|---|
| il | le/lui | son/sa/san | se |
| elle | la/lui/elle | son/sa/san | se |
| iel | lea/lui/ellui | son/sa/san | se |
| ul | lea/lui/ellui | son/sa/san | se |
| ol | lea/lui/ellui | son/sa/san | se |
| al | lea/lui/ellui | son/sa/san | se |
| ael | lea/lui/ellui | son/sa/san | se |
| el | lea/lui/ellui | son/sa/san | se |
| ille | lea/lui/ellui | son/sa/san | se |
| im | lea/lui/ellui | son/sa/san | se |
| em | lea/lui/ellui | son/sa/san | se |
Numbers
Numbers under 10 should be spelled out, while numbers 10 and over should be displayed numerically. When a sentence starts with a number, always spell it out. Use commas to set off thousands, but not in years, addresses, page numbers, phone numbers, or serial numbers.
| Number | Example |
|---|---|
| 9 and lower | Your payment may take three to five business days to process. |
| 10 and higher | Your payment may take five to 10 business days to process. |
| 1-9 at the beginning of a sentence | Two pieces of identification are required to apply for the program. |
| 10 and higher at the beginning of a sentence | Fifty-five volunteers are needed to help sandbag along Kingston Row and Kingston Crescent. |
Fractions
Fractions should be kept to two decimal points, unless further precision is essential.
These types of fractions are written using numbers:
- Numbers larger than one with fractions
- Decimal fractions
- Uncommon fractions
Common fractions are written using words, not numerically.
| Type of fraction | Example |
|---|---|
| Numbers larger than one with fractions | After the upgrades, NEWPCC will remove 2.5 times more phosphorous. |
| Decimal fractions | A gauge located on the Red River at James Avenue is 727.57 feet geodetic. |
| Uncommon fractions | The diversion fees will increase by 0.15 of a percentage point next year. |
| Common fractions | By 2020, we aim to reduce the amount of combined sewer overflows by one-third. |
Measurements
| Rule | Example |
|---|---|
| Spell out terms such as kilogram, metre, milligram, litre, and minute when not used with figures (don’t abbreviate) | The proposed rate will be a per kilogram charge. |
| Abbreviate common terms such as km/h and mm when used with figures | The crew closed the 2,550 mm combined sewer relief outfall gate at approximately 9:25 a.m. to prevent further discharge to the river. |
| Terms may be abbreviated when used repeatedly in tables and graphics |  |
Abbreviations must follow Canadian Press style guidelines:
| Currently the Red River is at 7.5 feet James Avenue datum. Within five days, the Red River should return to its normal summer level of 6.5 ft. James. With total rainfall across the city varying between 100 mm and 130 mm from the storms on Friday and Saturday, the majority of the stormwater retention ponds within the city were at or above their design high water level. |
Percentages
| Rule | Example |
|---|---|
| Use the percent sign (%) only in financial listings, graphs and charts |  |
| Spell out the words “percent” in text | Correct: Since 2010, we have reduced the number of combined sewer overflows by 25 percent. Incorrect: Since 2010, we have reduced the number of combined sewer overflows by 25%. |
Monetary values
| Rule | Example |
|---|---|
| Always use a monetary symbol | The $2 billion investment will help reduce the amount of combined sewer overflows that occur each year. |
| Use commas to set off thousands | The project will cost approximately $165,000 to complete. |
| For round numbers, the decimal is not required | Correct: $165,000 Incorrect: $165,000.00 |
Phone numbers
| Rule | Example |
|---|---|
| Use dashes only, do not use periods
Do not put area code in brackets | Correct: 204-986-6000 Incorrect: (204) 986-6000 204.986.6000 |
Dates
| Rule | Example |
|---|---|
| Write out numbers in dates, even if it is at the beginning of a sentence | 2005 was the year we started building the water treatment plant, and construction finished several years later. |
| Spell out days of the week and months in text, do not abbreviate | Correct: The Brady 4R Depot opened in February 2013. Incorrect: The Brady 4R Depot opened in Feb. 2013. |
| When using dates in tables or graphics, abbreviate the months without periods: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec |  |
| When using days of the week in tables or graphics, abbreviate without periods: Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat |  |
| When referring to decades, do not use an apostrophe | Correct: Renovations to the facility occurred in the 1990s. Incorrect: Renovations to the facility occurred in the 1990's. |
Time
| Rule | Example |
|---|---|
| Use the twelve-hour clock | Residents are invited to join us for an information session on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. |
| Capitalize time zones | The webinar will broadcast live at 2 p.m. EST (1 p.m. CST). |
Separate the letters that indicate morning or afternoon with periods (a.m. / p.m.) Note: Always use lowercase letters. | Correct: The curb lane on westbound McPhillips Street will be closed from 6 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Monday. Incorrect: The curb lane on westbound McPhillips Street will be closed from 6 am until 4 pm on Monday. |
| If the time is at an even hour, do not include a colon and two zeros | Correct: The Panet 4R Depot closes at 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Incorrect: The Panet 4R Depot closes at 4:00 p.m. on Saturdays. |
| Use ‘noon’ or ‘midnight’, not 12 p.m. or 12 a.m. | Correct: The event takes place today at noon. Incorrect: The event takes place today at 12 noon. |
| Always use figures for times, do not spell out numbers unless the time you are indicating is at the beginning of a sentence | Six o’clock is when the doors open. The presentation will begin at 6:30 p.m. |
Naming conventions & terminology
Elected officials
Job titles
When referring to a member of Council or Chairperson in written materials, capitalization rules apply.
| Rule | Example |
|---|---|
Do not add the word “ward” when referring to a Council ward | Correct: Brian Mayes, Councillor for St. Vital, welcomed residents as they picked up their free compost. Incorrect: Brian Mayes, Councillor for the St. Vital ward, welcomed residents as they picked up their free compost. |
Do not use “City” when referring to a Councillor’s job title | Correct: Councillor Brian Mayes, St. Vital, welcomed residents as they picked up their free compost. Incorrect: City Councillor Brian Mayes, St. Vital, welcomed residents as they picked up their free compost. |
Heads of committees are known as chairpersons | Jeff Browaty, Chairperson of the Standing Policy Committee on Finance and Economic Development, spoke to reporters following the committee meeting. Chairperson Jeff Browaty, SPC-Finance, spoke to reporters following the committee meeting. |
The "Chairperson" title supersedes Council ward title when referring to committee business – do not use both | Correct: Chairperson of the Standing Policy Committee on Finance and Economic Development Jeff Browaty spoke to reporters following the committee meeting. Incorrect: Chairperson of the Standing Policy Committee on Finance and Economic Development, North Kildonan Councillor Jeff Browaty, spoke to reporters following the committee meeting. |
Use the "Chairperson" title only if referring to committee matters; use the ward title if referring to non-committee matters | Correct: Brian Mayes, Councillor for St. Vital, welcomed residents attending a park dedication event in their ward. Incorrect: Brian Mayes, Chairperson of the Standing Policy Committee on Water, Waste and Environment, welcomed residents attending a park dedication event in their ward. |
Council wards
| Correct spelling (English) | Correct spelling (French) |
|---|---|
| Charleswood – Tuxedo – Westwood | Charleswood–Tuxedo–Westwood |
| Daniel McIntyre | Daniel-McIntyre |
| Elmwood – East Kildonan | Elmwood–Kildonan-Est |
| Fort Rouge – East Fort Garry | Fort Rouge–Fort Garry-Est |
| Mynarski | Mynarski |
| North Kildonan | Kildonan-Nord |
| Old Kildonan | Old Kildonan |
| Point Douglas | Point Douglas |
| River Heights – Fort Garry | River Heights–Fort Garry |
| St. Boniface | Saint-Boniface |
| St. James | St. James |
| St. Norbert – Seine River | Saint-Norbert–Rivière-Seine |
| St. Vital | Saint-Vital |
| Transcona | Transcona |
| Waverley West | Waverley-Ouest |
Committees of Council
| Correct spelling | Correct abbreviations |
|---|---|
| Executive Policy Committee | EPC |
| Standing Policy Committee on Community Services | SPC-CS |
| Standing Policy Committee on Finance and Economic Development | SPC-Fin |
| Standing Policy Committee on Public Works | SPC-PW |
| Standing Policy Committee on Property and Development | SPC-PD |
| Standing Policy Committee on Water, Waste and Environment | SPC-WW |
Community committees
| Correct spelling |
|---|
| Assiniboia Community Committee |
| City Centre Community Committee |
| East Kildonan-Transcona Community Committee |
| Lord Selkirk-West Kildonan Community Committee |
| Riel Community Committee |
Public Service
When to use Public Service versus City of Winnipeg
Generally, when communicating with members of the public, use City of Winnipeg rather than the department or division, unless asking residents to contact a specific civic branch.
| Rule | Example |
|---|---|
Use Public Service when referring to employees of the City of Winnipeg making recommendations to committees of Council or Council | The Public Service recommends that the departmental business plan be received as information. |
Use City of Winnipeg when communicating initiatives or projects to members of the public | Correct: The City of Winnipeg is consulting with residents and gathering feedback on the installation of a bike path in the Windsor Park neighbourhood. Incorrect: The Public Service is consulting with residents and gathering feedback on the installation of a bike path in the Windsor Park neighbourhood. |
Departments
| Correct spelling of departments (English) | Correct spelling of departments (French) |
|---|---|
| Assessment and Taxation Department or Assessment and Taxation | Service de l’évaluation et des taxes or Évaluation et taxes |
| Assets and Project Management Department or Assets and Project Management | Service de la gestion de l’actif et des projets |
| Audit Department or Audit | Service de l’audit or Audit |
| CAO’s Office or Chief Administrative Office | Bureau de la direction municipale or Direction municipale |
| City Clerk’s Department or City Clerk’s | Bureau du greffier or Greffier |
| Community Services Department or Community Services | Services communautaires |
| Corporate Finance Department or Corporate Finance | Service des finances générales or Finances générales |
| Customer Service & Communications Department or Customer Service & Communications | Service à la clientèle et des communications |
| Human Resource Services | Services aux ressources humaines |
| Innovation & Technology Department or Innovation & Technology | Service de l’innovation et de la technologie or Innovation et technologie |
| Legal Services Department or Legal Services | Services juridiques |
| Planning, Property & Development Department or Planning, Property & Development or PP&D | Service de l’urbanisme, des biens et de l’aménagement or Urbanisme, biens et aménagement |
| Public Works Department or Public Works | Service des travaux publics or Travaux publics |
| Water and Waste Department or Water and Waste | Service des eaux et des déchets or Eaux et déchets |
| Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service or WFPS | Service d’incendie et de soins paramédicaux de Winnipeg |
| Winnipeg Police Service or Police or WPS | Service de police de Winnipeg or Police |
| Winnipeg Transit or Transit | Régie des transports de Winnipeg or Transports |
Special operating agencies
| Correct spelling of special operating agencies (English) | Correct spelling of special operating agencies (French) |
|---|---|
| Animal Services Agency or Animal Services | Agence de services aux animaux or Services aux animaux |
| Fleet Management Agency or Fleet Management | Agence de gestion des véhicules or Gestion des véhicules |
| Golf Services | Organisme de gestion des terrains de golf |
| Winnipeg Parking Authority or WPA | Direction du stationnement de Winnipeg or Stationnement |
Employee or staff
When referring to persons employed by the City of Winnipeg, use employee(s) not staff.
| Correct | Incorrect |
|---|---|
| City of Winnipeg employees will contact affected property owners regarding the project. | City of Winnipeg staff will answer questions at the information session. |
Resident or citizen
When referring to Winnipeggers in written materials, use resident rather than citizen. An individual can be a resident of Winnipeg without being a citizen.
The exception to this rule is in matters related specifically to citizenship, such as elections. For instance, you must be a Canadian citizen to vote in the municipal election. In these similar instances, use citizen rather than resident.
Programs, initiatives & events
When referring to programs, initiatives, and events, it’s important to be consistent with naming conventions to ensure clarity. Choose one name and make sure you use it consistently at all times throughout all written materials.
| Correct | Incorrect |
|---|---|
The Water Protection Project launched its public engagement campaign today. Residents are being encouraged to submit their ideas for the Water Protection Project before December 31, 2017. Learn more about the Water Protection Project at winnipeg.ca/waterprotection | The Water Protection Project launched its public engagement campaign today. Residents are being encouraged to submit their ideas for the project to protect water before December 31, 2017. Learn more about the City of Winnipeg Project for Water Protection at winnipeg.ca/waterprotection. |
If you opt to use an abbreviation or acronym for a program, initiative, or project, consult the appropriate section of this resource.
Formatting style
Sentence spacing
When drafting written materials, do not leave two spaces after the punctuation at the end of a sentence. Only one space between the punctuation mark and the first letter of the following word is required.
Bulleted lists
All bulleted lists should start with an introductory sentence that ends with a colon. Always start each bullet point with an uppercase letter for the first word and do not use punctuation at the end of each one.
| Correct | Incorrect |
|---|---|
Registering for a MyUtilityBill account gives you access to your utility account details and allows you to:
| Registering for a MyUtilityBill account gives you access to your utility account details and allows you to:
|
Website & email address
Please note that you are not required to add either https:// or www. at the beginning of a website address.
| Correct | Incorrect |
|---|---|
| winnipeg.ca/clerks/election/election2022 | https://winnipeg.ca/clerks/election/election2022 |
Vanity link
Whenever possible, use a vanity link in written materials, especially when the page link exceeds three words. A vanity link is a unique website address used to help users remember and find a specific page more easily. It should be easy to remember, use, and share.
To request a vanity link, please contact the Corporate Web team or IT Service Desk.
| Regular link | Vanity link |
|---|---|
| winnipeg.ca/clerks/election/election2022 | winnipeg.ca/election2022 |
Website & email address capitalization
Website and email addresses must always be spelled out using lowercase letters only.
| Correct | Incorrect |
|---|---|
| winnipeg.ca/election2022 | winnipeg.ca/Election2022 |
| janesmith@winnipeg.ca
| JaneSmith@Winnipeg.ca Janesmith@Winnipeg.ca janesmith@Winnipeg.ca |
Referring to a website or email address in an imperative statement
When referring to a website or email address in an imperative statement, use a colon preceding the link and no punctuation following it.
| Element | Correct | Incorrect |
|---|---|---|
Website address | For more information, see: winnipeg.ca/betterarlington Learn more: winnipeg.ca/betterarlington | For more information, see winnipeg.ca/betterarlington. Learn more winnipeg.ca/betterarlington. |
Email address | For more information, contact: arlington@winnipeg.ca | For more information, contact arlington@winnipeg.ca. |
Referring to a website or email address in a sentence
When referring to a website or email address in a sentence, do not use a colon preceding the link. If it's at the end of the sentence, add appropriate punctuation.
| Element | Correct | Incorrect |
|---|---|---|
Website address | For more information about the project and its implications, we suggest you refer to the project website at winnipeg.ca/betterarlington. | For more information about the project and its implications, we suggest you refer to the project website at: |
Email address | For those who require alternate formats or interpretation in order to participate, please contact the project team no later than February 5, 2018 by email at arlington@winnipeg.ca. | For those who require alternate formats or interpretation in order to participate, please contact the project team no later than February 5, 2018 by email at: |
References
When referring to a City document, bylaw, or any specific legislation in communications materials, italicize its proper name.
| Correct | Incorrect |
|---|---|
According to the Neighbourhood Liveability By-Law a roadway is the portion of a street that is improved, designed or ordinarily used for vehicular traffic and includes a back lane but does not include a multi-use path or a sidewalk. | According to the Neighbourhood Liveability By-Law a roadway is the portion of a street that is improved, designed or ordinarily used for vehicular traffic and includes a back lane but does not include a multi-use path or a sidewalk. |
Street names & addresses
Spell out street names fully, including roadway type, and capitalize them both.
| Correct | Incorrect |
|---|---|
| Fermor Avenue | Fermor Ave, Fermor Av., Fermor ave. |
| Sterling Lyon Parkway | Sterling Lyon Pkwy, Sterling Lyon pkwy. |
| Orchard Hill Drive | Orchard Hill Dr, Orchard hill dr. |
| Kingston Crescent | Kingston Cres, Kingston crescent, Kingston Cres. |
| Bishop Grandin Boulevard | Bishop grandin boulevard, Bishop Grandin Blvd |
| Carpathia Road | Carpathia Rd, Carpathia road |
Specific address
When referring to a specific address, you must abbreviate the roadway type.
| Correct | Incorrect |
|---|---|
| The fire occurred at 12 First Ave. | The fire occurred at 12 First Avenue. |
| The fire occurred at 15 Second St. W. | The fire occurred at 15 Second Street West. The fire occurred at 15 Second St. West. |
Roadway abbreviations
When using roadway abbreviations, remember:
- The abbreviation is always followed by a period
| Roadway type | Abbreviation |
|---|---|
| Avenue | Ave. |
| Boulevard | Blvd. |
| Circle | Cir. |
| Crescent | Cres. |
| Drive | Dr. |
| Highway | Hwy. |
| Parkway | Pky. |
| Road | Rd. |
| Route | Rte. |
| Street | St. |
| Terrace | Ter. |
Directions
Directions, such as north, east, south, and west should not be capitalized unless they are part of a proper name.
| Correct | Incorrect |
|---|---|
Residents in north Winnipeg may experience delays in garbage and recycling collection on Tuesday. | Residents in North Winnipeg may experience delays in garbage and recycling collection on Tuesday. |
The curb lane on westbound Fermor Avenue is closed between St. Anne’s Road and St. Mary’s Road as crews are conducting sewer repairs. | The curb lane on Westbound Fermor Avenue is closed between St. Anne’s Road and St. Mary’s Road as crews are conducting sewer repairs. |
Events
When providing event details, be it online, in invitations, news releases or the like, use the following format as follows:
[Insert title] details
Date:
Time:
Location:
Format:
When possible, add a hyperlink to the event location using Google Maps.
| Element | Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
Date | Day of the week, month with specific date, followed by year | Monday, November 26, 2018 |
Time | Use the twelve-hour clock and indicate the start and end times, separated by a dash Note: You can indicate more than one time, separated by a semicolon. | 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. 7 p.m. doors open; 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. presentation |
Location | Hyperlink address to Google Maps | Sergeant Tommy Prince Place, 90 Sinclair St. |
Format | If known, indicate the event format | Come and go |
More information / 311
In many communications materials, the City advises residents to contact 311 for more information.
For items posted online, use the following format:
- For more information, contact 311
Use the following URLs for the contact 311 links:
News releases & media advisories
Headline & subhead
When writing a headline and subhead, remember:
- Only the first word and any proper names within a title should be capitalized
| Element | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
Headline | Attention-grabbing title, succinct, provides a brief description of the topic | City releases November 2017 financial update |
Subhead | Optional, provides a summary of the key takeaway | City releases November 2017 financial update Projected year-end surplus anticipated at $8.7 million, up from $1.7 million in October projections |
Date format
| Use | Example |
|---|---|
Day of the week, month with specific date, followed by year. | Wednesday, October 3, 2018 |
Inverted pyramid
When writing news releases, use the inverted pyramid style. Generally, provide the most newsworthy information in the introductory paragraph, followed by quotes (if applicable), important details, and then general information.
Attributing quotes
A person’s given name is used with surname on first reference. Only use the surname thereafter. Use job titles on first reference, not thereafter.
Says variants
When quoting an individual in a news release, use said immediately following the quote. Do not use says.
| Correct | Incorrect |
|---|---|
“I’m pleased to announce this new funding agreement,” said Councillor Janice Lukes, Waverley West. "I'm pleased to announce this new funding agreement," said Janice Lukes, Councillor for Waverley West. | “I’m pleased to announce this new funding agreement,” says Councillor Janice Lukes, Waverley West. “I’m pleased to announce this new funding agreement,” Councillor Janice Lukes, Waverley West, said. |
Order of dignitaries
When quoting dignitaries in news releases or listing speakers attending media events and announcements, the order is as follows (as applicable):
- Prime Minister and/or federal representative
- Premier and/or provincial representative
- Mayor
- Committee Chairperson
- Ward Councillor
- Member of the Public Service
- Member of an organization or community member
News release & media advisory naming conventions
| Role | Example |
|---|---|
| Prime Minister | Prime Minister Justin Trudeau |
| Federal minister | Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities of Canada |
| Federal representative | Dan Vandal, MP for Saint Boniface – Saint Vital |
| Premier | Premier Wab Kinew |
| Provincial minister | Adrien Sala, Minister of Finance |
| Provincial representative | Rachelle Schott, MLA for Kildonan-River East |
| Mayor | Mayor Scott Gillingham |
| Chairperson | Janice Lukes, Chairperson of the Standing Policy Committee on Public Works |
| Councillor | Brian Mayes, Councillor for St. Vital |
| City employee | Felicia Wiltshire, Director of Customer Service & Communications |
| Community partner | Anthony Edwark Stark, CEO of Stark Industries |
More information
For clarity, advice, and guidance related to the guidelines contained within this guide, contact David Driedger, Manager of Corporate Communications, by email at ddriedger@winnipeg.ca.