Editor’s Note: A Season of Sovereignty, Safety, and Spring Transitions

Good morning to our readers across the Red River North, Eastline, and Boreal Boundary. As we move through the second week of April 2026, our region is defined by a powerful push for local independence and a heightened state of vigilance. From municipal governments rewriting the rules of their own development to families double-checking immunization records and locking their front doors, this week’s report highlights a community that is taking its future—and its safety—into its own hands.

In the Red River North, the theme is undeniably "Self-Determination." The City of Selkirk has officially begun the process of crafting a fully independent Development Plan, signaling a clean break from regional mandates to prioritize a "made-in-Selkirk" vision for growth. This shift toward local control is mirrored in St. Andrews, where the RM is launching a massive Zoning By-law update that will govern property rights and land use for the next generation. While our leadership redefines the landscape, the community remains on alert. The heroic work of PDS "Stewie" in tracking a home invasion suspect on McLean Avenue reminds us of the constant vigilance of our local RCMP, while a measles exposure alert at the Easton Place Medical Clinic has prompted a surge in health record reviews across the corridor. Whether it is a 100-lot subdivision in West St. Paul or a zoning open house in Clandeboye, the North is currently building its own blueprint.

Along the Eastline, the focus has shifted toward long-term health and fiscal reality. The massive 7-acre expansion of the Bethesda Wellness hub in Steinbach is a generational win for the Southeast, promising to bring specialists closer to home and cement the region as a primary medical destination. However, growth brings its own set of challenges; in Blumenort, the LUD is navigating the necessity of a mill rate increase to ensure infrastructure keeps pace with its expanding population. In Springfield, all eyes are on next Wednesday’s public hearing, where the 2026 Financial Plan will set the roadmap for tax levies and capital spending. Amidst this growth, the RM of Taché continues to manage a complex labor dispute, with management prioritizing essential road maintenance to ensure residents can navigate the slushy spring transition safely.

In the Boreal Boundary, the week is defined by a mix of high-stakes safety alerts and environmental caution. The search for a Reynolds man wanted after a brazen attempted break-in in Beausejour has put the region on high alert—an urgent reminder to keep doors locked and call 911 if a suspect is spotted. This human element of risk is underscored by the natural risk of the season; despite improving drought conditions, Reeve Loren Schinkel has warned that the wildfire threat remains high following the tragedies of last year. Thankfully, a new Wawanesa Wildfire Prevention Grant for Lac du Bonnet offers a critical boost to local fire suppression and notification systems. As Brokenhead, Pinawa, and Whitemouth finalize their 2026 Financial Plans, the "fine print" reveals a region focused on resilience—investing in the drainage, fire safety, and infrastructure needed to protect our unique boreal landscape.

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  1. Selkirk RCMP Arrest Suspect After Targeted Home Invasion:

    On April 1, 2026, Selkirk RCMP responded to a home invasion on McLean Avenue where a suspect kicked in a door, demanded money, and assaulted a resident with a knife. RCMP Police Dog Services (PDS) "Stewie" successfully tracked and located the suspect on Main Street, leading to his arrest without further incident. Source: Manitoba RCMP

  2. Measles Exposure Alert: Selkirk Medical Clinic:

    Manitoba Health has issued a public notification for the Easton Place Medical Clinic (15 Wersch St., Selkirk). Exposure occurred on March 28 between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Residents from across the Southeast who visited the clinic at that time are urged to check their immunization records.

    Source: Province of Manitoba

  3. Selkirk Updating Development Plan for Full Independence:

    The City of Selkirk has officially begun updating its Development Plan to reflect its new status as an independent planning authority. Following its withdrawal from both the Red River Planning District (RRPD) and the Capital Planning Region, the City is tailoring its long-term growth strategy to prioritize local needs over regional mandates. This "made-in-Selkirk" approach will govern land use, infrastructure, and housing within city limits, ensuring that future development aligns strictly with the community's vision rather than a one-size-fits-all regional model.

    Source: City of Selkirk

  4. St. Andrews Launches Comprehensive Zoning By-law Update:

    The RM of St. Andrews is currently in the process of replacing its existing Zoning By-law (By-law 4066) with a modern 2026 version. This update is designed to align local regulations with the new Provincial Planning Requirements and the North Red District Development Plan. The new by-law will govern everything from residential density and home-based businesses to environmental protections and agricultural land use. Residents are encouraged to review the draft documents and attend the upcoming open houses on April 15 and April 29 to see how these changes will affect their property rights and future development in the RM. Source: RM of St. Andrews

  5. West St. Paul: 100-Lot Subdivision Public Hearing (April 9):

    A major re-zoning and subdivision package for 3797 Main Street is coming before Council. The project proposes to transform 26 acres into a new residential community featuring 100 serviced single-family lots.

    Source: Red River Planning District

  6. St. Andrews: 2026 Financial Plan Public Hearing (April 9):

    The RM of St. Andrews has formally invited residents to the Clandeboye Council Chambers on Thursday, April 9, at 6:00 PM. The hearing will detail the municipal budget, tax levies, and planned infrastructure spending.

    Source: RM of St. Andrews

  7. St. Clements: Spring Melt Drainage Advisory:

    With the spring thaw officially underway, the RM is reporting a surge in drainage-related calls. Residents are reminded to check culverts and ensure local ditches are clear to prevent localized flooding.

    Source: RM of St. Clements

  8. Interlake Real Estate Market Heating Up as Spring Thaw Begins:

    A new Royal LePage report highlights that recreational property prices in the Interlake, including the St. Andrews corridor, are rising sharply. Long-term buyers are increasingly looking for year-round homes in what were once primarily seasonal cottage areas.

    Source: CTV News

  9. Reminder: RRPD Development Fee Increases Effective April 1:

    Residents and developers in St. Clements are reminded that the Red River Planning District’s new fee structure is now in effect. The increases apply to all building permits and planning applications submitted after the April 1 deadline. Source: RM of St. Clements

  10. East St. Paul: Citizens on Patrol Program (COPP) Seeking Volunteers:

    The ESP protective services department is looking to expand its COPP team for the 2026 season. Volunteers work alongside local law enforcement to provide additional eyes and ears for community safety.

    Source: RM of East St. Paul

  11. Selkirk 2026 Budget: Strategic Investment in Recreation Complex:

    The City of Selkirk’s 2026 budget includes a dedicated funding stream for long-term upgrades to the Selkirk Recreation Complex. The move aims to modernize the facility to accommodate the city's growing population and increasing demand for indoor youth sports.

    Source: Manitoba News 101

  12. East St. Paul: Private Well Systems Maintenance Reminder:

    As the spring melt accelerates, the RM is urging residents on private wells to perform seasonal maintenance. The municipality has posted resources on their website regarding safe water testing and flood-proofing well heads.

    Source: RM of East St. Paul

  13. Manitoba Highland Gathering Spring Market Scheduled for April 11:

    The East Selkirk Hall will host the Highland Gathering Spring Market this Saturday from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. The event features local vendors and serves as a major fundraiser for the 2026 Highland Gathering festival.

    Source: RM of St. Clements

  14. Selkirk Regional Health Centre: 200 Additional Surgeries Funded:

    The 2026 Provincial Budget has officially designated the Selkirk Regional Health Centre as a hub for surgical expansion, providing funding for 200 more hip and knee procedures this year. This investment is part of a broader strategy to utilize regional hospitals to clear specialized surgical backlogs.

    Source: Manitoba Government

  15. West St. Paul: Sunova Centre Spring Recreation Schedule Released:

    The Sunova Centre has officially opened registration for its spring soccer and adult fitness programs. The schedule features expanded hours for indoor pickleball and several new toddler-focused play sessions.

    Source: RM of West St. Paul

  1. Steinbach: Bethesda Wellness Announces Massive 7-Acre Expansion:

    The Bethesda Wellness charity has officially purchased seven additional acres adjacent to the Stonebridge Wellness Centre. The move aims to create a centralized "medical hub" for the Southeast, housing both Southern Health services and private providers to reduce travel for specialists.

    Source: CBC News

  2. Blumenort LUD Finalizing 2026 Capital Projects The Local Urban District (LUD) of Blumenort is planning to raise its mill rate to 4.39 mills for 2026 to fund new capital projects. Chair Kevin Medeiros noted that despite an assessment increase, the boost is necessary to maintain infrastructure standards as the community grows.

    Source: SteinbachOnline

  3. Springfield: 2026 Financial Plan Public Hearing (April 15):

    The RM has formally scheduled its budget hearing for next Wednesday at 6:00 PM. This is the final opportunity for public input on the 2026 tax levy and the municipality's capital spending road map for the year.

    Source: RM of Springfield

  4. Taché: Operations Strike Update #3 Released:

    The RM has published its third strike update regarding the ongoing labour dispute. While many administrative services remain limited, management personnel are currently prioritizing essential road maintenance and emergency responses.

    Source: RM of Taché

  5. Hanover: RSR Wastewater Interim Rate Approval The Red-Seine-Rat (RSR) Wastewater Cooperative has moved to the next phase of its $22M infrastructure project. Council has announced initial interim wastewater rates as the cooperative prepares to service Mitchell and the surrounding region.

    Source: RM of Hanover

  6. Steinbach Sets Date for "Pick Up and Walk" 2026:

    The City of Steinbach, in partnership with local churches, has officially announced that the 2026 "Pick Up and Walk" community cleanup will take place on Saturday, May 2. This annual event mobilizes 100’s of volunteers to clean up litter across the city in a single morning. Residents, families, and community groups are encouraged to register by April 24 to ensure they receive a commemorative t-shirt and are assigned a specific cleanup route. The event will culminate with a community lunch at the T.G. Smith Centre as a thank-you to all participants for their efforts in beautifying the city.

    Source: City of Steinbach

  7. RM of Hanover: 2026 Spring Road Restrictions in Effect:

    The RM has officially activated Level 1 weight restrictions (65% of normal axle load) on all municipal roads. These measures are mandatory to prevent structural damage during the current aggressive spring thaw.

    Source: RM of Hanover

  8. Weather-Related Crashes at Highway 59/PR 210:

    St. Pierre-Jolys RCMP responded to two morning collisions involving a rolled semi-trailer and a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Highway 59 and PR 210. Adverse weather and slushy roads were cited as the primary factors.

    Source: SteinbachOnline

  9. RM of Ste. Anne: COPP Open House Recruitment (April 28):

    An open house for the Citizens on Patrol Program (COPP) will be held late this month. The RM is looking for volunteers to assist local RCMP with community safety monitoring.

    Source: RM of Ste. Anne

  10. Collision at Highway 12 and PR 210 Sparks Fresh Safety Concerns:

    A two-vehicle collision on Wednesday afternoon at this notorious intersection has renewed calls for provincial action. The Ste. Anne Fire Department responded to the crash, which involved a pickup pulling a food cart and an SUV.

    Source: SteinbachOnline

  11. Critical Care on the Air Radiothon Begins This Week:

    This week marks the start of the STARS Air Ambulance radiothon. Broadcasts across the Southeast (AM 1250, MIX 96, Country 107) are sharing survival stories from local patients to raise funds for life-saving helicopter missions in rural Manitoba.

    Source: SteinbachOnline

  12. RM of Piney: Private Well Water Testing Days Announced:

    The RM will hold official water testing days on May 28 and June 25. Residents can pick up kits at the office; samples must be submitted by 10:00 AM on testing days.

    Source: RM of Piney

  13. RM of Springfield: Upcoming Municipal Watermain Extension A public notice has been issued for a planned watermain extension. Residents in the affected zone are encouraged to review the scope and hookup costs at the municipal office.

    Source: RM of Springfield

  14. De Salaberry: 2026 Financial Plan Public Hearing (April 28):

    Council has set its budget hearing for the end of the month. The plan focuses on infrastructure renewal in St. Malo and regional drainage improvements.

    Source: RM of De Salaberry

  15. Surplus Capital Asset Auction: Marchand Park Building:

    The RM is accepting bids for the Marchand Park Building (16’4” x 36’4”). Bidders should note that interior contents like coolers and tables will be removed prior to acquisition. Signed bid documents must be submitted via email or fax by the deadline on April 20, 2024.

    Source: RM of La Broquerie

  16. RM of De Salaberry: Recycling Collection Special By-law Hearing:

    A public hearing is scheduled for April 21 regarding By-law 2439-25, which proposes a special service levy for recycling collection within the municipality. Source: RM of De Salaberry

  17. RM of Springfield: Springfield Chickendaze Dates Confirmed:

    The RM has officially announced the return of Chickendaze for May 29-31, 2026. Volunteer registration is now open.

    Source: RM of Springfield

  18. RM of Piney: April 2026 Newsletter Released:

    The latest municipal update is now live, featuring guidance on the 2026 fire season, local drainage projects, and the schedule for spring cleanup.

    Source: RM of Piney

  19. RM of Piney: 7-Year Agricultural Land Lease Opportunity:

    Proposals are currently being accepted for a seven-year lease on municipal agricultural land. The deadline for submissions is approaching mid-April.

    Source: RM of Piney

  1. Beausejour RCMP Seek Suspect from Reynolds After Attempted Break-In:

    Beausejour RCMP have issued a warrant for Jacob Ashe, 22, of the RM of Reynolds, following an attempted break and enter on the 800 block of Ashton Avenue on March 29. Homeowners observed a male attempting to force the front door at 2:24 AM before he fled the scene. Despite a search involving a drone operator and Police Dog Services, the suspect remains at large. He is described as 5’11”, 185 lbs with red hair and blue eyes. If seen, do not approach and call 911 immediately.

    Source: Manitoba RCMP

  2. Wildfire Season Outlook: Drought Conditions Improving but Risk Remains: Reeve Loren Schinkel recently addressed the regional drought status, noting that while winter moisture has helped, the area remains on high alert following the fatalities of the previous season. The province is currently assessing how quickly the remaining snowpack will melt before making a final fire risk prediction. Source: CTV News

  3. RM of Brokenhead: 2026 Financial Plan Hearing (April 14):

    Council will present the annual budget on Tuesday, April 14, including details on property tax adjustments and proposed infrastructure projects. Copies of the plan will be available for pickup on and after Friday, April 10, at the PTH#44 office or for download on the municipal website.

    Source: RM of Brokenhead

  4. RM of Lac du Bonnet: 2026 Financial Plan:

    The RM has unveiled its proposed 2026 budget, which includes significant allocations for drainage and wildfire mitigation. A public hearing was scheduled for April 8.

    Source: RM of Lac du Bonnet

  5. Beausejour: 2026 Financial Plan Hearing (April 28):

    The Town of Beausejour will hold its public hearing for the 2026 Financial Plan on Tuesday, April 28. The plan details the town’s infrastructure priorities and proposed mill rate for the upcoming fiscal year.

    Source: Town of Beausejour

  6. Pinawa: 2026 Financial Plan Hearing Set (April 14):

    The LGD of Pinawa will present its 2026 budget at a public hearing next Tuesday, April 14, at 5:00 PM in the Municipal Office. Residents are invited to review copies of the plan in person and voice any questions regarding local tax levies and infrastructure spending.

    Source: LGD of Pinawa

  7. Whitemouth: 2026 Financial Plan Public Hearing Minutes:

    Following the recent budget presentation, the RM has posted a summary of planned capital spending. Key priorities include upgrading the Seven Sisters Falls drainage system and municipal road graveling.

    Source: RM of Whitemouth

  8. Lac du Bonnet Receives Wawanesa Wildfire Prevention Grant:

    The RM has been awarded a community wildfire prevention grant for 2026 to bolster local fire suppression resources. This funding will support the municipal FireSmart strategy and help develop better notification systems for residents. Source: Wawanesa

  9. Boreal Shores Art Tour Announces New Leadership for 2026:

    The popular regional art tour has named Mary Louise Chown as the new board president and Annie Bergen as the new coordinator. The tour, which draws thousands of visitors to the region, is officially set for August 15 and 16, 2026. Source: Boreal Shores Art Tour

  10. Eastman Tourism & Outdoor Show Highlights Backcountry Travel:

    RM is getting ready for the Eastman Tourism & Outdoor show in Lac Du Bonnet on May 30 & 31. Tourism officials are promoting the Reynolds area for its extensive network of ATV and hiking trails. Local businesses are preparing for an expected surge in outdoor recreation this summer.

    Source: RM of Reynolds

  11. In the Mind’s Eye: Art and Mental Wellness Series:

    A community art program titled "In the Mind's Eye" will run from April 24 – June 2 in Pinawa. The workshops are designed to use creativity as a tool for mental wellness and are open to all skill levels.

    Source: Travel Manitoba

  12. RM of Victoria Beach Employment: Water Plant & Public Works
    The RM is currently filling multiple positions for the upcoming summer rush. Roles include water plant operations and general public works maintenance for the restricted area.

    Source: RM of Victoria Beach

  13. RM of Reynolds: Family Doctor Finder Update:

    The RM has posted a fresh notice reminding residents of the provincial portal for finding primary care physicians. This is part of a larger push by the IERHA to connect rural patients with local clinics.

    Source: RM of Reynolds

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