Editor’s Note: The Shifting Soil of 2026
Good morning to our readers across the Red River North, Eastline, and Boreal Boundary. As we move through the second week of March 2026, the frozen ground is beginning to give way—not just to the spring thaw, but to the weight of heavy machinery and the ink of new municipal legislation. From historic library expansions to massive investments in our youth, the "blueprint for growth" we discussed last week is now being stamped with official approval across all three of our regions.
In the Red River North, the theme this week is a massive investment in our future generations. While the province’s $600,000 commitment to the Gaynor Family Regional Library ensures our shared social infrastructure keeps pace with growth, the real "dirt-turning" news comes from West St. Paul. On March 10, the province officially broke ground on a new $30M+ K-8 school in Meadowlands. This facility isn't just a school; it's a community anchor featuring 134 new child-care spaces and the first project built under the Manitoba Jobs Agreement, prioritizing our local workforce. This news pairs perfectly with the Lord Selkirk School Division’s recent approval of a $78.8M budget, which adds 13 new teaching positions and 22 educational assistants to ensure our classrooms stay manageable as our community expands.
Moving to the Eastline, we are seeing a balanced focus on infrastructure, public safety, and community health. The Hanover School Division has officially ratified a record $146.7 million budget to accommodate nearly 300 new students, a move that includes adding 13 teachers and 22 educational assistants to the front lines. In Niverville, the regional physician shortage is being addressed head-on as the Open Health Clinic successfully recruited three new doctors, including Dr. Trevor Poole. However, the week has not been without its somber notes; our thoughts are with those affected by the fatal collision in the RM of Springfield on March 9 near the Perimeter Highway. As we look ahead, the City of Steinbach is preparing for its March 17 Financial Plan hearing, and the RM of Ritchot has launched a recruitment drive for a new Community Safety Officer to bolster local enforcement. Whether it’s Niverville buzzing with energy as it hosts the 2026 Volleyball Nationals or Seine River Services for Seniors moving to their new, more accessible home at Villa Youville, the Eastline continues to prioritize both growth and the well-being of its residents.
In the Boreal Boundary, the narrative is a mix of high-speed energy and the "heavy lifting" of essential community planning. We just saw Beausejour take center stage as the 64th Annual CPTC concluded with a record $100,100 purse paid out to racers, solidifying our region as the premier destination for ice oval racing in North America. Yet, as the roar of the engines fades, the work of governance takes over. The RM of Reynolds is currently navigating a pivotal three-day public hearing for its Proposed Zoning By-law No. 04-2025, a document that will dictate the shape of local development for years to come. Simultaneously, the RM of Lac du Bonnet has released its 2026 Draft Development Plan, aiming to modernize land-use rules for the first time in over a decade. Whether it's securing the 2026 gravel supply tender in Reynolds or preparing for the Sunrise School Division Job Fair on March 18, our eastern municipalities are deep in the work of future-proofing their communities.
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Council Responds to Code of Conduct Investigation:
On March 5, 2026, the RM of St. Andrews Council formally responded to a recent Code of Conduct investigation report. The response outlines new internal protocols to ensure transparency and accountability in municipal leadership moving forward.
Source: RM of St. Andrews
West St. Paul: Ground Broken on New $30M+ K-8 School:
On March 10, 2026, the Manitoba government officially broke ground on a new Kindergarten to Grade 8 school in the Meadowlands development of West St. Paul. The facility will initially house 675 students with the capacity to expand to 800. A major highlight of the project is the inclusion of 134 new child-care spaces (104 infant/preschool and 30 school-age). This is the first school being built under the new Manitoba Jobs Agreement, ensuring local workers are prioritized for the construction.
Source: Province of Manitoba
Lord Selkirk School Division Approves $78.8M Budget:
On March 3, 2026, the LSSD Board of Trustees approved the 2026-2027 budget, totaling $78,802,674. The plan includes the addition of 13.0 FTE teaching positions and 22.0 Educational Assistants to manage growing enrollment across the division.
Source: Lord Selkirk School Division
$600K Provincial Investment for the Gaynor Family Regional Library:
On March 10, 2026, Premier Wab Kinew announced a $600,000 investment through the Manitoba GRO program to expand the Gaynor Family Regional Library. The project will increase the library's usable space to 22,500 sq. ft., adding a dedicated new children’s area, more study spaces, and room for 20,000 additional volumes. As one of the busiest libraries in the province—hosting 150,000 visitors last year—this expansion is a joint venture between the City of Selkirk, the RM of St. Andrews, the RM of St. Clements, and the Village of Dunnottar.
Source: Province of Manitoba
Road Closure Notice: Cowley Street:
West St. Paul has issued a notice for the ongoing closure of Cowley Street. The closure is required for significant infrastructure work, and residents are advised to follow all posted detour signs to ensure the safety of construction crews.
Source: RM of West St. Paul
Construction Update: St. Clements Activity Centre:
Work continues on the interior of the new Activity Centre. The municipality confirmed on March 6 that the project is on track to provide a much-needed social hub for East Selkirk and surrounding areas by the end of the year.
Source: RM of St. Clements
Spring Road Restrictions Now in Effect:
East St. Paul has implemented Level 1 and Level 2 weight restrictions on municipal roads as of March 6. This is a critical move to protect pavement from damage during the sensitive spring thaw period.
Source: RM of East St. Paul
Proposed Municipal Pesticide Use Program (2026):
The RM of West St. Paul intends to conduct its 2026 Pesticide Control Programs from May 1 to September 30. Programs include controlling noxious weeds, managing vegetation on gravel boulevards, and controlling mosquitoes and canker worms in parks. Residents may register their opposition to application adjacent to their property in writing.
Source: RM of West St. Paul
Public Notice: 2026 Financial Plan Hearing (March 17):
West St. Paul has announced a public hearing for its 2026 Financial Plan on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Residents are invited to City Hall to review proposed spending and tax rates for the upcoming fiscal year.
Source: RM of West St. Paul
Spring Break Camp 2026: Registration Nearly Full:
The "East St. Paul Spring Break Takeover" (March 30 - April 2) is seeing high demand. The camp features immersive live-action role play and crafts for children ages 5-12 at the Banquet Hall.
Source: RM of East St. Paul
2026 Homeowners Affordability Tax Credit Released:
The RM has issued guidance on the 2026 property tax credit. This credit is designed to provide direct relief to homeowners; residents should see the adjustment on their upcoming municipal tax bills.
Source: RM of East St. Paul
East St. Paul Farmers Market 2026 Planning Underway:
The RM has opened applications for the 2026 Farmers Market season. Local vendors and artisans are encouraged to apply early to secure a spot for the summer market series held at the arena grounds.
Source: East St. Paul Farmers Market
ESPCC Recreation Volunteer Opportunity:
The East St. Paul Community Centre (ESPCC) is seeking volunteers to help organize the 2026 spring and summer sports leagues. Positions range from coaching to event coordinating for the upcoming soccer and baseball seasons.
Source: RM of East St. Paul
Pre-Registration: Shamrocks & Salisbury Steaks Fundraiser:
The East Beaches Regional Complex is hosting a community fundraiser on March 19. Tickets are now available for an evening of food and local entertainment to support community growth initiatives.
Source: RM of St. Clements
Fatal Two-Vehicle Collision in RM of Springfield:
Oakbank RCMP are investigating a fatal crash that occurred on March 9 near the intersection of Fermor Avenue and the Perimeter Highway. One individual was confirmed deceased at the scene.
Source: CBC News
Steinbach Area Man Pleads Guilty to Harassment:
A 19-year-old man has been sentenced following a case involving 364 unwanted phone calls over a two-week period. The case highlighted the need for increased community support for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Source: The Carillon
Hanover School Division Approves Record $146.7 Million Budget
The HSD Board of Trustees has officially ratified the 2026-27 fiscal plan. Driven by a projected increase of nearly 300 students, the budget includes a 7.4% spending hike to add 13 new teachers and 22 educational assistants. Homeowners will see a mill rate of 13.32, roughly a $53 increase for an average home.
Source: SteinbachOnline
Steinbach 2026 Financial Plan Public Hearing set for March 17:
The City of Steinbach has scheduled a public hearing for its 2026 Financial Plan. The session will cover the upcoming operating budgets and the long-term capital expenditure program, including major road and recreation projects.
Source: City of Steinbach
Niverville Open Health Clinic Adds Three New Doctors:
To address the regional physician shortage, the Niverville clinic has successfully recruited three new doctors. Dr. Trevor Poole is among the new hires, bringing specialized interests in mental health and preventative care to the growing community.
Source: The Carillon
Springfield 2026 Draft Budget Presentation Held:
The RM of Springfield held its public Q&A for the 2026 Draft Budget on March 10. Key discussions included the 2026-2027 levy for the Northeast Red Watershed District and updates to the fee schedules for aggregate and transport licenses.
Source: RM of Springfield
La Broquerie: Series of Variance Hearings Set for March 25:
Council will hear eight separate variance and conditional use requests on March 25, including applications from Bluestem Development and several private landowners in the Marchand area.
Source: RM of La Broquerie
RM of Ste. Anne: Evening Council Meeting Scheduled for March 25:
The RM will hold a special evening session at 6:00 PM to accommodate residents who cannot attend daytime meetings. Topics include the LUD of Richer garbage pickup contract and the 2026 committee appointments.
Source: RM of Ste. Anne
Niverville Hosting the 2026 Volleyball Nationals:
The Niverville Pilots are the official host for the volleyball nationals ongoing this weekend. The event is expected to bring a significant boost to local hospitality and retail sectors with teams arriving from across Canada.
Source: SteinbachOnline
RM of Ritchot: Recruitment for New Community Safety Officer:
As of March 10, the RM of Ritchot has officially opened the search for a new Community Safety Officer (CSO). This position is part of a regional effort to increase local enforcement and safety presence in municipalities like St. Adolphe and Ste. Agathe.
Source: Niverville Citizen
RM of Piney March 2026 Newsletter Now Available:
The RM has released its monthly briefing, highlighting "Coffee with Council" dates and a one-time recovery benefit from the province for residents affected by previous wildfire evacuations.
Source: RM of Piney
Seine River Services for Seniors Relocates to Villa Youville:
The local senior support organization has officially moved its office to Villa Youville in Ste. Anne, offering improved accessibility for local retirees seeking assistance with transportation and health resources.
Source: SteinbachOnline
Hanover Spring Road Restrictions: March 10 Commencement:
Effective today, the RM of Hanover has implemented spring weight restrictions to protect gravel and paved roads during the thaw. Haulers are advised to check the municipal map for specific zone closures.
Source: RM of Hanover
Town of Ste. Anne: LUD of Richer Sidewalk Tenders Open:
The Town of Ste. Anne has issued a call for quotes for sidewalk construction projects within the Local Urban District (LUD) of Richer for the 2026 season. Interested contractors have until late March to submit quotations to the Public Works department.
Source: RM of Ste. Anne
Black Balloons in Steinbach Remember Lives Lost to Addiction:
Local advocates placed black balloons throughout the city this week to mark a day of remembrance for those lost to the toxic drug crisis and to raise awareness for mental health resources in the Southeast.
Source: SteinbachOnline
Springfield Weed Control District 2026 Levy Approved:
Springfield has finalized its contributions to the joint Weed Control District for the upcoming season, ensuring invasive species management continues along municipal ditches and right-of-ways.
Source: RM of Springfield @ 35:30 mark
Ste. Anne Outdoor Rink Officially Closed for Season:
With the recent mild temperatures, the Town of Ste. Anne has officially closed the outdoor rink on Arena Road. Crews have begun the process of breaking down the boards for summer storage.
Source: Town of Ste. Anne
Reynolds Zoning By-law Public Hearing (March 11–13):
The Municipal Board of Manitoba is holding a multi-day public hearing starting today, March 11, at the Reynolds Civic Centre. The hearing addresses objections to the Proposed Zoning By-law No. 04-2025, a foundational document that will regulate land use across the RM.
Source: Manitoba Municipal Board
64th Annual CPTC Pays Out Over $100,000 in Prize Money:
The Canadian Power Toboggan Championships (CPTC) concluded its 64th season this week in Beausejour. Organizers confirmed a record $100,100 purse was paid out to racers across the pro and sport classes, solidifying the event's status as the premier ice oval race in North America.
Source: CPTC Racing News
Reynolds Planning District Meeting Updates:
Following the cancellation of the March 5 joint planning meeting, the district has confirmed the updated 2026 schedule. These meetings are critical for residents in the Whitemouth-Reynolds corridor looking to move forward with property development or subdivision plans.
Source: RM of Whitemouth
RM of Lac du Bonnet 2026 Draft Development Plan & Zoning By-law:
The RM is in the final stages of updating its Development Plan and Zoning By-law. Working with M Richard Associates, the municipality has released the 2026 draft for public review, aiming to modernize land-use rules for the first time in over a decade.
Source: RM of Lac du Bonnet
Sunrise School Division Job Fair (March 18):
A regional job fair will be held at the Sunrise Education Centre in Beausejour on March 18. This event is a critical recruitment opportunity for the Whitemouth and Beausejour schools within the division.
Source: Sunrise School Division
Giant Pumpkin Growers Seminar (March 28):
Brokenhead recently hosted a regional seminar for giant pumpkin enthusiasts. The event marks the start of the 2026 "growing season" for local farmers preparing for the annual Pumpkin Fest in the fall.
Source: RM of Brokenhead
2026 Traffic Gravel Supply & Crushing Tender Issued:
The RM of Reynolds has officially opened the bid opportunity for its 2026 gravel supply and crushing contract. This essential maintenance project ensures the municipality has the materials needed for road repairs following the spring thaw.
Source: RM of Reynolds
Lac du Bonnet Charitable Foundation Spring Grants:
The local Charitable Foundation has officially opened its Spring 2026 funding session. Local non-profits and community groups have until the end of March to apply for project grants.
Source: Lac Du Bonnet Foundation
2025 Public Water System Annual Report Published:
On March 3, 2026, the Town of Beausejour published its annual water quality report. The findings confirm that the municipal water supply remains in full compliance with all provincial health standards.
Source: Town of Beausejour
2025 Farmland School Tax Rebate Deadline March 31:
The RM of Brokenhead is reminding agricultural producers that the deadline for the 2025 Farmland School Tax Rebate is fast approaching. Applications must be submitted by the end of the month to be eligible for the credit.
Source: RM of Brokenhead
Tyndall Eagles "Tin for the Bin" Food Drive:
The local Tyndall Eagles youth group launched a community-wide food drive. Residents are encouraged to leave non-perishable items in designated bins at the Tyndall Curling Club on April 11, 2026.
Source: RM of Brokenhead
EMCA Performance Series: Fierbois (March 13):
The Eastern Manitoba Concert Association (EMCA) continues its 2025/2026 season with a performance by Fierbois this Friday in Pinawa. The series remains a cultural cornerstone for the Boreal region.
Source: Pinawa Community Calendar
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