Editor’s Note: A Season of Growth, Grief, and Fiscal Reckoning
Good morning to our readers across the Red River North, Eastline, and Boreal Boundary. As we step into April 2026, our region finds itself at a crossroads. The transition from winter to spring is never just about the weather; it is about the shifting landscape of our towns, the safety of our roads, and the provincial "fiscal blueprint" that determines which of our local priorities move forward and which are left waiting. From 100-lot subdivisions to the sobering finality of police oversight reports, this week’s report captures a community in motion.
In the Red River North, the headline is undeniably "expansion." West St. Paul is eyeing a transformative 26-acre project on Main Street that could bring 100 new serviced lots to the RM. This isn't just a subdivision; it’s a signal of the sustained demand for single-family homes on the edge of the city. While West St. Paul grows outward, St. Andrews is looking inward, inviting residents to dissect a comprehensive new Zoning By-law that will dictate property rights for years to come. In Selkirk, the news is a mix of social and physical health. The 2026 Provincial Budget has brought two major wins: the long-awaited promise of fare-free transit for youth and a critical funding injection for the Selkirk Regional Health Centre to tackle 200 additional hip and knee surgeries. It’s a week that proves our northern corridor is as much about infrastructure as it is about the people it serves.
Moving to the Eastline, the mood is more complex as regional leaders digest a provincial budget that some feel has "missed the mark." Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen has been vocal in his critique, arguing that the Southeast’s rapid growth is being met with "Winnipeg-centric" spending rather than the renal programs and highway upgrades the region was promised. However, the budget wasn't without silver linings; a $22-million investment in the Red-Seine-Rat wastewater network offers a lifeline for the booming communities of Hanover, Taché, and Niverville. Safety also remains front-of-mind as Steinbach RCMP search for a wanted 36-year-old, and the IIU provides a definitive—though somber—conclusion to the 2024 Niverville officer-involved shooting. Whether it’s Emerson-Franklin’s strategic push to revitalize the border region or Steinbach’s proactive flood mitigation, the Eastline is proving that local resilience often has to fill the gaps left by provincial policy.
In the Boreal Boundary, the week has been marked by a heavy sense of loss. A tragic fatal collision on Highway 11 and a snowmobile fatality in the RM of Alexander serve as a stark, painful reminder that the spring melt makes our trails and roads more treacherous than they appear. These incidents cast a shadow over a week that should be defined by preparation. In Lac du Bonnet, crews are working against the clock to dredge the Wood Duck Boat Launch, ensuring the 2026 boating season isn't stalled by sediment. Meanwhile, communities such as Whitemouth, the focus turns to the "fine print" of the 2026 Financial Plans. These public hearings are the final chance for residents to weigh in on how their tax dollars will balance the need for growth with the necessity of fiscal responsibility in an unpredictable economy.
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West St. Paul: 100-Lot Subdivision & Re-Zoning Proposed for Main Street:
The Red River Planning District has released a comprehensive public hearing package for a major residential expansion in West St. Paul. By-law No. 2026-01 "P" and Subdivision Application S26-3133 propose to transform approximately 26 acres of land at 3797 Main Street and 335 Minnehaha Avenue into a new serviced residential community.
The plan involves re-zoning the area to "RS" Serviced Residential to allow for the creation of 100 new single-family lots. These lots are designed with an average size of 6,845 square feet and will feature full municipal services, including sewer, piped water, and concrete curbs.
Residents are invited to attend the dual public hearing to provide feedback on both the zoning change and the specific subdivision layout.
Source: Red River Planning District - West St. Paul Public Hearing Package (S26-3133) and By-law 2026-01 "P" Package
St. Andrews: Public Open Houses Set for New Zoning By-Law:
The RM has scheduled two open houses on April 15 and April 29 to discuss the comprehensive 2026 Zoning By-law update. Residents are encouraged to attend to see how the new regulations will impact property development and land use.
Source: RM of St. Andrews
Selkirk: Manitoba Budget 2026 Confirms Free Transit for Youth:
The provincial budget released in late March includes $10 million for fare-free transit for youth under 18. Minister Mike Moyes confirmed that implementation discussions are currently underway with the City of Selkirk.
Source: CityNews
Selkirk Regional Health Centre: 200 Additional Surgeries Funded:
As part of the 2026 Provincial Budget, Selkirk has been tapped for a major surgical expansion. The facility will receive funding to perform 200 additional hip and knee surgeries this year to reduce regional wait times.
Source: Province of Manitoba
Low-to-Moderate Spring Flood Risk for Red River North:
The Province’s March 2026 Flood Outlook Report indicates a low-to-moderate risk of flooding for the Red River. While soil moisture is near normal, the risk remains dependent on the rate of the melt. Ice-cutting and breaking activities on the Red River are now complete to mitigate the risk of ice-jam flooding in the North.
Source: Province of Manitoba
Public Hearing Notice: 2026 RM of St. Andrews Financial Plan:
Council will present the proposed 2026 Financial Plan at a public hearing on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. Residents can attend in person at the Clandeboye office or watch live via the RM’s YouTube channel. A copy of the plan will be available for public review starting April 2.
Source: RM of St. Andrews
St. Clements: CN Rail Vegetation Management (April-October):
A notice was issued on March 31 advising residents that CN Rail will begin vegetation management (spraying and brush cutting) along rail corridors starting in April. This is part of annual fire prevention and visibility maintenance.
Source: RM of St. Clements
Spring Runoff Update: Maintenance and Resident Best Practices:
With rising temperatures, the Operations Department is actively steaming culverts and maintaining ditches to ensure runoff moves smoothly. Residents are reminded that standing water in ditches is normal as they are designed for controlled drainage. However, if water reaches your foundation or enters your basement, contact Operations immediately at 204-334-0092.
Source: RM of West St. Paul
Standard Spring High Water Preparedness Underway:
The City of Selkirk has implemented its annual high water preparedness plan. While current Red River levels are not considered high and the Amphibex has already passed through, the city is clearing ditches, steaming drains, and monitoring dikes as a precaution. Residents are encouraged to check their sump pumps and ensure eavestroughs are clear to protect their foundations.
Source: City of Selkirk
West St. Paul: Recruitment Drive for 2026 Summer Students:
The RM began accepting applications on March 24 for several summer student positions in public works and recreation. These roles are critical for maintaining the RM’s parks and operating summer camps for local youth.
Source: RM West St. Paul
RFP Issued: Design and Construction of Natural Turf Soccer Fields:
The RM of St. Andrews is seeking qualified proponents for the design and construction of three full-size natural turf municipal soccer fields at the Liss Road Recreational Site. The project will span two construction seasons and include site prep, irrigation, and turf installation.
Source: RM of St. Andrews
East St. Paul: Spring Large Item and Yard Waste Pick-up Dates Announced:
The RM of East St. Paul has released the 2026 schedule for seasonal waste collection. Large Item Pick-up will occur between April 13 and April 24, 2026, on residents' regularly scheduled garbage days. Following this, Yard Waste Pick-up is set to begin the week of April 27 and will continue through October 30. Residents are reminded to use reusable containers, cardboard boxes, or paper bags for yard waste and to keep these materials out of blue recycling bins to avoid landfill contamination.
Source: RM of East St. Paul
Tendering Extension: 2026 Pavement Repairs (RFT 2026-02):
Due to a recent addendum, the closing date for the 2026 Pavement Repairs tender has been postponed to Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. A public opening of the submitted bids will take place immediately following the new closing time in the Municipal Council Chambers at 3550 Main Street.
Source: RM of West St. Paul
Nominations Open: J.C. (Chic) Balderstone Volunteer Awards:
The RM of West St. Paul is officially accepting nominations for the J.C. (Chic) Balderstone Memorial Award and the West St. Paul Youth Volunteer Award. These honors recognize individuals who go above and beyond to make the community a better place through their time and heart. Nomination forms are available on the municipal website or at the Access Centre.
Source: RM of West St. Paul
Shape the Future: Recreation Master Plan Survey:
The RM is developing a new Recreation Master Plan to prioritize future investments in parks, trails, facilities, and programs. Resident feedback is critical to ensure these services reflect the needs of a growing community. The online survey is currently open and will help guide the RM for years to come.
Source: RM of West St. Paul
RM of Taché: Strike Enters Second Month Amid Thaw Concerns:
As of March 26, the strike involving Taché public works employees is entering its second month. A new offer from the union was presented last week, providing a glimmer of hope for a resolution before the "spring thaw dam" creates significant drainage issues in unmaintained ditches.
Source: The Carillon
De Salaberry: Public Hearing for 2026 Financial Plan Set:
The RM has scheduled its 2026 Financial Plan Public Hearing for April 28, 2026. Residents can review the proposed budget at the municipal office starting mid-April.
Source: RM of De Salaberry
Steinbach: RCMP Search for Wanted 36-Year-Old Man:
Local RCMP are requesting public assistance in locating a 36-year-old male wanted on several outstanding warrants. He is believed to be in the Steinbach area.
Source: SteinbachOnline
No Charges Against Officer in 2024 Niverville Shooting:
Manitoba’s police watchdog (IIU) has officially ruled that no charges will be laid against a Winnipeg police officer involved in the fatal shooting of a suspect following a high-speed chase into Niverville in 2024.
Source: CTV News
Steinbach: MLA Kelvin Goertzen Criticizes 2026 Provincial Budget:
Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen expressed significant disappointment with the recently released provincial budget, stating it "missed the mark" for the Southeast. Goertzen noted that while the budget focused on Winnipeg-centric initiatives, Steinbach was largely ignored regarding major infrastructure commitments, specifically citing the lack of progress on the promised regional renal program and local highway improvements. He argued that the province is failing to recognize Steinbach as one of the fastest-growing cities in Manitoba.
Source: SteinbachOnline
$22M for Red-Seine-Rat (RSR) Wastewater Network:
A massive $22 million investment was confirmed in the 2026 Budget for the Red-Seine-Rat East water and wastewater network. This project is vital for the continued growth of Hanover, Taché, and Niverville.
Source: Province of Manitoba
Emerson-Franklin: 2022-2026 Strategic Plan Implementation Update:
The Municipality of Emerson-Franklin has released a progress update on its multi-year Strategic Plan. The plan focuses on four pillars: Economic Development, Infrastructure Sustainability, Community Well-being, and Governance. Key priorities currently being tackled include the revitalization of the Dominion City museum, improving drainage along the Roseau River, and exploring new residential development incentives to attract young families to the border region.
Source: RM of Emerson-Franklin
Flood Mitigation Brings Hope to Steinbach Animal Rescue:
Following major flooding in 2024 and 2025, the City of Steinbach has fast-tracked work on the Keating Drain. The president of the Steinbach and Area Animal Rescue says the work is already making a difference, though the shelter remains on high alert as the city heads into the April budget vote for further mitigation.
Source: SteinbachOnline
Springfield 2026 Financial Plan Public Hearing Set:
The RM has officially posted the notice for the 2026 Financial Plan Public Hearing. This is the critical meeting where the property tax levy and capital expenditure budget for the year will be finalized. Residents are encouraged to attend to see how the RM plans to balance growth with fiscal responsibility.
Source: RM of Springfield
De Salaberry: Special Services By-law for Waste Collection:
Council has scheduled a public hearing for April 21 to discuss a new Special Services By-law. This would change how waste and recycling collection is funded in certain areas of the RM, moving toward a more streamlined regional model that could impact property tax allocations for rural residents.
Source: RM of De Salaberry
Steinbach RCMP Arrest Shoplifter After Foot Chase:
On March 27, RCMP responded to a theft at a business along Highway 12. A 38-year-old woman from Winnipeg was arrested following a short foot pursuit. She faces charges of theft under $5,000 and five counts of failing to comply with a release order.
Source: SteinbachOnline
Steinbach: Spring Roadway Weight Restrictions Begin:
City-wide road weight restrictions officially went into effect on March 25 at 6:00 a.m. to prevent damage to asphalt during the seasonal thaw.
Source: City of Steinbach
Dugald Place: RFP for Operations Services Issued:
A Request for Proposals (RFP) has been issued for operations and management services for the Dugald Place Assisted Living Residence. This is a major step in bringing the long-awaited senior living facility in Dugald to full operational status.
Source: RM of Springfield
Steinbach: 2025 Drinking Water Report Published:
The City released its annual water quality report on March 26. The system remains in full compliance, with zero provincial health limit exceedances recorded in the 2025 calendar year.
Source: City of Steinbach
Hanover Spring Road Restrictions Now in Effect:
The RM of Hanover officially activated its 2026 Spring Road Restrictions on Wednesday, March 25. These are set to remain in place until May 29, 2026, unless conditions allow for an earlier lift.
Source: RM of Hanover
Municipal Watermain Extension Notice:
The RM has issued a formal notice regarding an upcoming municipal watermain extension project. This infrastructure work is designed to improve water pressure and reliability for existing residents while creating capacity for new developments in the Oakbank and Dugald corridors.
Source: RM of Springfield
Steinbach: Parkland Drive Road Closure Starts March 30:
The City of Steinbach has issued a notice for a road closure on a portion of Parkland Drive starting Monday, March 30. This is expected to cause minor delays for local residents as crews begin infrastructure work.
Source: City of Steinbach
Growing Demand Pushes Active Living Centre Toward Expansion:
The Pat Porter Active Living Centre in Steinbach is seeing record attendance, prompting a push for facility expansion. Leadership notes that the current space is struggling to host the volume of programs requested by the city's aging population.
Source: SteinbachOnline
Highway 11: Fatal Collision Investigation:
RCMP are investigating a tragic two-vehicle collision on Highway 11 that occurred on Tuesday morning, March 31. Two seniors from Lac Du Bonnet have been confirmed deceased. Investigators believe heavy snowfall and deteriorating road conditions were significant factors in the crash.
Source: CTV News
RM of Alexander: Snowmobile Fatality on Local Trail:
Tragedy struck on March 27 when a 64-year-old man from East St. Paul was killed after his snowmobile struck a tree on a trail in the eastern region. RCMP are reminding riders that melting conditions are making trails increasingly unpredictable.
Source: CBC News
Lac du Bonnet: Wood Duck Boat Launch Dredging Project Update:
The RM released a project update on March 23 regarding the dredging of the Wood Duck Boat Launch. Crews are working to clear sediment build-up to ensure the launch is fully operational for the 2026 boating season, which usually sees a massive influx of residents in May.
Source: RM of Lac du Bonnet
RM of Alexander: Snow Clearing from Ditches Notice:
A formal notice was issued on March 24 regarding localized snow clearing from ditches to prevent ice damming. Public works crews have prioritized areas prone to overland flooding to ensure the rapid melt has a clear path to the Winnipeg River.
Source: RM of Alexander
Whitemouth: 2026 Financial Plan Public Hearing (April 28):
The RM has officially given notice for its 2026 Financial Plan presentation. Following the presentation of Tax By-law 778/26, the hearing will address the municipality's fiscal roadmap, including infrastructure maintenance and local service levies.
Source: RM of Whitemouth
Lac du Bonnet: $2M in Funding for New Water Plant:
A major provincial funding announcement was confirmed this week, allocating $2 million toward the construction and upgrading of the Lac du Bonnet water treatment plant to handle increasing seasonal and permanent residential demand.
Source: Clipper Publishing
Victoria Beach: 2026 Draft Financial Plan Available:
The RM has made its 2026 Draft Financial Plan available for public review ahead of the formal presentation and hearing scheduled for April 7.
Source: RM of Victoria Beach
Victoria Beach: Registration Period Opens for 2026 Election:
As of March 31, the registration period has officially opened for individuals wishing to run for Councillor positions in the upcoming 2026 municipal election.
Source: RM of Victoria Beach
Beausejour: Chamber of Commerce Welcomes New ED:
The Beausejour & District Chamber of Commerce has officially appointed a new Executive Director. This leadership change comes as the Chamber prepares for a busy 2026 season of business advocacy and community events.
Source: Clipper Publishing
Pinawa: Lion’s $15,000 Bingo Extravaganza:
The Pinawa Lions Club has finalized details for their major fundraiser on April 11. This event is a staple of the spring social calendar and supports various community health and youth initiatives in the LUD.
Source: Pinawa.com
Beausejour: 2026 Vintage Tractor Pull Date Finalized:
The Pioneer Village Museum has officially announced that the 2nd Annual Eastman Vintage Tractor Pull will take place on July 11, 2026. Admission is set at $10.00.
Source: BBDC
Pinawa: EMCA Presents the Derina Harvey Band:
The Eastern Manitoba Concert Association has confirmed the Derina Harvey Band will perform in Pinawa on April 10. This Celtic-rock performance is expected to be a sell-out event for the community.
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