Editor’s Note: Strengthening our Roots and Looking Ahead
Good morning to our readers across the Red River North, Eastline, and Boreal Boundary. As we move through the second half of January 2026, our communities are finding their stride between celebrating local achievements and navigating the somber realities that remind us of the importance of neighborly care.
In Eastline, the highlight of the month was undoubtedly the Grand Slam of Curling in Steinbach. Beyond the world-class competition, the event left a lasting legacy through the Sandra Schmirler Foundation, which presented a generous grant to the Bethesda Foundation. This funding is already being put to work to purchase life-saving equipment for the hospital’s obstetrics unit, ensuring that the next generation of our community members gets the best possible start in life right here at home.
However, the week also brought a heavy heart to the RM of Springfield. The Oakbank RCMP are currently investigating a tragic incident where human remains were discovered following a vehicle fire near Briercliffe Road on January 14. As the investigation continues, our thoughts are with the families affected and the first responders who attended the scene.
Moving to the Boreal Boundary, there is a palpable sense of momentum in Lac du Bonnet. Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara recently confirmed that foundation work is complete on the long-awaited 95-bed Personal Care Home. This $66.4 million project is a cornerstone of our regional health strategy, and seeing the steel and masonry rise signifies a future where our seniors can age with dignity without leaving the community they love. Additionally, a "major win" was announced in the RM of Reynolds, where a $315,000 provincial grant has been secured to expand the local fire hall—a critical boost for our volunteer first responders.
In Red River North, the focus has shifted to the future of our classrooms. The Lord Selkirk School Division is currently inviting all residents to weigh in on the 2026-2027 Preliminary Budget Survey. This is your chance to voice what matters most—whether it’s mental health support, extracurriculars, or classroom technology—before the deadline on January 22.
Finally, for the parents in our midst, the "Kindergarten Dash" has officially begun. Whether you are in the Sunrise, Hanover, or Lord Selkirk divisions, registration for the 2026-27 school year is live. I especially want to highlight Sunrise’s "Connect & Learn" initiative, which offers play-based assessments to help transition our littlest learners into the school system smoothly. It’s a busy season for families, so be sure to check our Municipal Deadlines Chart below to keep your dates straight.
From the curling rinks in Tyndall to the council chambers in St. Clements, our region remains a vibrant, ever-changing place to call home. Stay warm, stay safe, and thank you for letting us share your stories.
Your Input Matters: We aim to deliver the most essential and relevant local news. If you have ideas for new content, specific municipal coverage you'd like to see, or are interested in sponsoring a future issue, please reach out to us directly at [email protected].
Selkirk: Fatal Pedestrian Collision on Main St.:
RCMP are investigating a fatal accident after an 80-year-old male was struck by a vehicle near Selkirk Avenue on Jan 15. The driver is cooperating, and no charges have been laid at this time.
→ Source: Manitoba RCMP
Major Weapons Seizure in St. Andrews:
A multi-week RCMP investigation led to the seizure of several firearms and prohibited weapons in St. Andrews. A 43-year-old male faces trafficking and unauthorized possession charges.
→ Source: Manitoba RCMP
East St. Paul: Massive Mowat Road Housing Proposal Hits Major Hurdle: Following the public hearing on January 21, the proposed 400+ acre housing development on Mowat Road (DPA 293-25) is under heavy scrutiny. While Waterside Development Corp. is pushing to re-designate the land to "Settlement Centre" for single- and multi-family homes, the project has met stiff resistance. Manitoba Agriculture officially objected to the loss of prime Class 2 and 3 farmland, and provincial planners have recommended the board not proceed to a second reading until infrastructure and land-use compatibility issues are resolved. The board will now deliberate on these formal objections before deciding the project's fate.
→ Source: Red River Planning District
West St. Paul: Public Hearing for Kapelus Drive:
A public hearing is scheduled for Jan 22, 2026, at 6:00 PM regarding a Conditional Use application (CU 60, 2025) for property on Kapelus Drive. The hearing will take place at the Council Chambers (3550 Main Street) to discuss specific land use impacts for this parcel.
→ Source: Red River Planning District
Petition Against Proposed "Cooks Creek Estates" Development:
A new proposal to rezone 145 acres in the RM of St. Clements is drawing pushback from local landowners. Rezoning application DP 294 / 2025 seeks to transition land from Resource Agriculture to General Development to allow for a 140-home subdivision.
Opponents of the project have launched a petition citing concerns over "suburban-scale" density, increased traffic on rural roads, and the permanent loss of natural habitat and agricultural land. The petition urges Council to maintain the area’s existing rural character. Residents interested in viewing the petition or learning more about the concerns raised can access the form here.
20-Lot Residential Subdivision Hearing in St. Andrews Postponed:
Public hearings for a major 24-lot development (20 residential lots) at 8 McLennan Road have been moved from Jan 27 to March 10, 2026. The project includes a new road and two cul-de-sacs in a Rural Residential zone.
→ Source: RM of St. Andrews
West St. Paul: 2026 Budget Hearing Set:
The RM will hold a public hearing for its 2026 Financial Plan on Feb 5. Residents can review the infrastructure and tax proposal starting Jan 22 at the Municipal Office.
→ Source: RM of West St. Paul
Highway 59 Bridge Design Over Brokenhead River:
Manitoba Transportation is currently in the preliminary design phase for a new bridge structure on PTH 59 over the Brokenhead River. The project includes a functional design for the approach roadway to improve access for travelers.
Lord Selkirk School Division Budget Survey Deadline Today:
LSSD launched its 2026-2027 Preliminary Budget Survey on Jan 12. The division is seeking public input on funding priorities before the final board deliberations in February.
→ Source: Lord Selkirk School Division
Updated Dog By-Law Rules for East St. Paul:
New enforcement protocols for the Dog By-Law took effect Jan 15, clarifying leash requirements and owner responsibilities in public parks to enhance community safety.
→ Source: RM of East St. Paul
St. Andrews Committee Meeting Cancelled:
The Jan 19 Committee of the Whole meeting was officially cancelled due to administrative scheduling. The next Regular Council meeting remains scheduled for Jan 27 at 5:30 PM.
→ Source: RM of St. Andrews
Southeast Library Merger Stalls:
The proposal for a large-scale regional library system has effectively ended as 16 of 18 municipalities have withdrawn. Only the City of Steinbach and the Town of Niverville remain interested in exploring a shared system, citing low demand from rural councils.
→ Source: CBC Manitoba
RM of Springfield: Human Remains Found in Vehicle Fire:
RCMP are investigating after human remains were discovered in a burnt-out truck in the RM of Springfield on Jan 16. Major Crimes Services and Forensic Identification Services are working to identify the victim.
→ Source: Manitoba RCMP
Ste. Anne: Highway 12 & 210 Intersection Safety:
Ongoing safety modifications at the intersection of Highways 12 and 210 are a top priority for 2026. The RM is working with the province to improve lighting and lane marking following a series of winter collisions in the area.
→ Source: SteinbachOnline
RM of Piney: Major Wildfire Grant & AlertMB Partnership
The RM has secured a $314,651 provincial grant for a new 3,000-gallon water tanker. Additionally, Council approved joining the AlertMB system, which will allow push notifications to be sent directly to residents' phones during the 2026 wildfire season.
→ Source: SteinbachOnline
RM of Hanover Kindergarten Registration Now Open:
The Hanover School Division officially opened 2026–27 Kindergarten registration on January 5. Parents are encouraged to register online at hsd.ca before March 1 to ensure proper staffing and placement for their children.
→ Source: Hanover School Division
Sunrise School Division Kindergarten Registration & Orientation:
Registration for children born in 2021 is now open for Springfield-area schools, including Oak Bank Elementary, Anola, and École Dugald. Parents are encouraged to register by early March to secure a spot for the Connect & Learn assessments, which help the division prepare for your child's specific learning needs.
→ Source: Sunrise School Division
Bethesda Foundation Receives Sandra Schmirler Grant:
During the Grand Slam of Curling held in Steinbach (Jan 6–11), the Sandra Schmirler Foundation presented a generous grant to the Bethesda Foundation. The funds are earmarked for new life-saving equipment for the hospital’s obstetrics unit. Residents are encouraged to support their national telethon on Jan 25.
→ Source: Bethesda Foundation News
RM of Ste. Anne Daycare Expansion Priorities for 2026:
Reeve Richard Pelletier confirmed that the RM has set aside land to accommodate new daycares. With population growth soaring, the municipality is currently in talks for two potential childcare facilities to begin development later this year.
→ Source: SteinbachOnline
RM of Hanover: Surveyor Layouts Now Required:
Effective this month, the RM of Hanover requires a professional Surveyor’s Construction Layout for all new permanent foundations in urban areas (Grunthal, Kleefeld, Mitchell). Hand-drawn site plans are no longer sufficient for permits.
→ Source: RM of Hanover
RM of Taché 2024 Consolidated Financials Released:
The RM has published its audited 2024 Financial Statements as of Jan 6, 2026. This release is part of the municipality’s commitment to transparency as they begin deliberations for the 2026 budget cycle.
→ Source: RM of Taché
RM of Springfield January Council Meeting Highlights:
The Jan 13 council meeting addressed several high-priority topics, including the current status of the Springfield Police Service and new policies regarding content moderation on the RM's social media platforms. Public delegations also raised concerns regarding regional capital planning.
→ Source: RM of Springfield
RM of La Broquerie: Reflections on 2025:
Progress Reeve Ivan Normandeau stated that Council has found a "strong working rhythm" as they enter the final year of their term. Priorities for 2026 include managing wastewater rate hikes and maintaining low taxes amidst rapid growth.
→ Source: SteinbachOnline
RM of Taché Planning Hearings Postponed:
Public hearings originally scheduled for January 20, 2026, involving major subdivision files (No. 4194-25-9195 and 9200) and several variance orders, have been postponed until further notice. New dates will be posted on the RM's planning portal.
→ Source: RM of Taché
New Subdivision Hearing Set for the RM of De Salaberry:
A public meeting is scheduled for Feb 3, 2026, regarding Subdivision File 4119-25-9219. The hearing will address a proposed residential split near St. Malo.
→ Source: RM of De Salaberry
Council Meeting for RM of De Salaberry On Jan 20:
The RM will hold a Regular Meeting of Council on Jan 20 at 5:00 PM. Key agenda items include infrastructure updates for the St. Malo area and the ongoing St. Malo Arena renovation, which is transitioning into a year-round recreation center. → Source: RM of De Salaberry
Hanover Taché Junior Hockey Busiest Week:
The HTJHL entered its busiest week of the season on Jan 20, with 12 games scheduled across the region (including Ste. Anne, Warren, and Landmark) as teams scramble for playoff positioning.
→ Source: HTJHL League
RM of Ste. Anne: Heather Dean Named Older Adult of the Year:
Long-time resident Heather Dean was recently recognized as Manitoba’s Older Adult of the Year. Her work with the Seine River Services for Seniors has been credited with expanding affordable transportation for seniors across the RM. →Source: RM of Ste. Anne
Lac du Bonnet Personal Care Home Project Update:
The Manitoba government confirmed this month that foundation work is complete for the new 95-bed Personal Care Home. The project, which replaces a 30-bed facility, is now moving into the masonry and steel erection phase.
→ Source: Manitoba Government
Seatbelt Legislation Sparked by Bus Rollover:
Following a recent bus rollover, Lac du Bonnet MLA and Education Critic Wayne Ewasko is pushing for new legislation to mandate seatbelts in school buses. The bill aims to increase safety for students across rural divisions.
→ Source: CityNews Winnipeg
Pine Falls Hospital Nursing Shift Shortages:
The Manitoba Nurses Union (MNU) raised alarms on Jan 16 regarding vacant shifts at the Pine Falls Health Complex. The union is concerned that a reduction in private nursing agencies is impacting rural facilities, leaving critical shifts unfilled during the winter peak
→ Source: Manitoba Nurses Union
Sunrise School Division: 2026-2027 Registration Officially Launches:
As of January 12, 2026, parents can begin registering children born in 2021 for Kindergarten. Registration packages are available at local school offices in Beausejour, Lac du Bonnet, and Whitemouth, or can be downloaded via the division website.
Source: Sunrise School Division
Men’s Bonspiel Weekend in Tyndall:
The Tyndall Curling Club has officially set its 2026 Men’s Bonspiel for Jan 23–25. This is one of the largest winter social events for the Tyndall-Garson area, with community viewing and events planned throughout the weekend.
→ Source: Tyndall Curling Club
RM of Whitemouth: Staff Development Closure:
The Whitemouth-Reynolds Planning District office will be closed this Friday, Jan 23, for mandatory staff development training aimed at improving municipal service efficiency for the new year.
→ Source: RM of Reynolds
RM of Alexander: Winter Tree Maintenance Notice:
The Municipality issued a public works notice on Jan 13 regarding scheduled tree maintenance. Crews will be working along municipal right-of-ways to clear branches that pose a risk to power lines and snow-clearing equipment.
→ Source: Municipality of Alexander
Powerview-Pine Falls: 2026 Council Meeting Schedule Set:
The Town has officially confirmed its 2026 schedule, with Regular Meetings of Council set for the first Wednesday of every month at 2:00 PM. The first major session for the new year took place on Jan 7.
→ Source: Town of Powerview-Pine Falls
Lac du Bonnet Senior School Spring Clean-Up Sponsorships:
The Chargers Youth in Philanthropy (YIP) group is currently seeking local business sponsors for their annual "Clean the Streets" day. Interested parties are encouraged to contact the school this month to support the student-led beautification project.
→ Source: Lac du Bonnet Senior School
Reminder from the RM of Alexander: WASP Wildfire Protection Kits:
The RM issued a notice on Jan 13 regarding the arrival of discounted WASP Wildfire Protection Kits. These specialized rooftop sprinkler systems are being promoted to residents in high-risk wooded areas as part of a 2026 "Climate-Ready" strategy.
→ Source: Municipality of Alexander
Pinawa: Treasurer Carol Findlay Retires:
After 16 years of service, the Pinawa Foundation announced the retirement of long-time board member and Treasurer Carol Findlay on Jan 1. She was a key leader in the "Community Projects Month" and regional endowment growth.
→ Source: Pinawa Foundation
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