Manitoba’s fiscal outlook is tightening:
The province says it’s on track to post Canada’s lowest deficit‑to‑GDP ratio at 0.5%, with Finance Minister Adrien Sala crediting “disciplined fiscal management.” Officials say the improved outlook comes as credit rating agencies highlight Manitoba’s near‑term path “back to balance” and growing economic opportunities.
Brandon grass fire renews staffing concerns:
Friday’s grass fire south of Brandon has reignited long‑standing concerns from the local firefighters union. IAFF Local 83 president Gage Wood says Brandon already has too few firefighters for the workload — a gap he warns will widen as the city grows. A Facebook post outlining the union’s concerns drew over 500 shares by day’s end Monday.
$3‑billion Brandon energy project heads to PUB review:
The Manitoba government has sent Manitoba Hydro’s proposed 750‑megawatt dual‑fuel turbine project in Brandon to the Public Utilities Board for an independent review. The plan is part of a broader push to expand generation capacity through new wind power and demand‑reduction programs.
Legislature Speaker cracks down on behaviour:
Speaker Tom Lindsey ejected Tory MLA Wayne Ewasko from the chamber Monday after an apology over earlier heckling was deemed insufficient. Lindsey also released a new list of banned words — including “bigot” and “racist” — joining previously prohibited terms such as “liar.”
Campaign school aims to boost women in municipal politics: Her Seat at the Table hosts a May 25 campaign school to help women navigate municipal elections. The session offers mentorship, resources, and hands‑on guidance. Preregistration is open until May 19.
Brandon’s Bob Mazer enters Manitoba Business Hall of Fame:
Long‑time Brandon businessman Bob Mazer has been inducted for his impact on the agricultural equipment sector. Mazergroup says his legacy continues through the company’s growth, its employees, and the values he established.
City Hall lights up for FMD Awareness Month:
Brandon City Hall’s sign and flagpole will glow red and blue this week to support those living with fibromuscular dysplasia — the first time the city has illuminated the building for FMD Awareness Month.
Neepawa launches new development incentives:
The Town of Neepawa has approved a refreshed incentives program offering tax breaks and grants for new homes and businesses. Secondary suites, multi‑unit housing, and large commercial or industrial builds all qualify.
STARS training boosts rural emergency response:
The Carberry Health Centre hosts STARS emergency‑care training today, giving nurses, EMS and fire crews hands‑on critical‑care simulation. The community‑funded session supports ongoing efforts to strengthen rural emergency response following last year’s ER reopening.
Brandon’s pickle festival gets a new name:
The city’s summer pickle party will now roll out as the “Brandon Brine Bash.” Organizers say only the name is changing — the August 22 festival remains on the calendar.
BU Breast Cancer Awareness Walk returns Friday:
Brandon University’s annual walk returns at noon Friday, led by survivors and community groups including Waves of Hope. Organizers hope to double last year’s turnout as fundraising supports early‑detection research.
Alberta separatist petition faces legal uncertainty:
A group pushing for an Alberta independence referendum says it has submitted over 300,000 names, but an Edmonton judge is still weighing a constitutional challenge that could stop the process. Meanwhile, Elections Alberta and the RCMP are investigating a separate group for leaking a database of three million residents, a breach the premier says doesn’t undermine the petition.
Nationwide emergency alert test Wednesday:
Expect your phone to sound off tomorrow. As part of Emergency Preparedness Week, the Alert Ready test will go out to TV, radio and compatible mobile devices at 1:55 p.m. Wednesday. No action is required.
