Brandon Police have increased foot and bike patrols downtown as part of a spring visibility push aimed at curbing crime and strengthening support for residents and businesses as warmer weather brings more people into the core.
New StatsCan data shows Manitoba remains near the top nationally for violent crime, with assaults and robberies driving most of the volume in major centres. RCMP say spring call loads remain heavy, and targeted enforcement continues in high‑pressure zones.
The City of Brandon has issued a Monday parking ban for sweeping on Franklin, Frederick and Percy Streets, covering multiple blocks. Residents are urged to follow No Parking signs, with vehicles at risk of being ticketed or towed.
The province is investing in school ventilation upgrades this summer, focusing on aging buildings with the most urgent needs. Manitoba Education is also funding more EA and clinician positions, including in Brandon School Division, citing rising classroom complexity.
Brandon University reports continued growth in international enrollment, increasing demand for housing and student supports ahead of the next academic year.
Manitoba has activated additional wildfire crews and aircraft as dry conditions push the province into an early‑season risk zone. Burn bans remain in place in the RMs of Whitehead, Cornwallis, Elton, Oakland–Wawanesa and Glenboro–South Cypress.
Four Canadians from the hantavirus‑affected cruise ship are now in quarantine in Victoria, while three international passengers have since tested positive or shown symptoms.
MPs have strengthened Bill C‑16, expanding it to outlaw sexual deepfakes and “nearly nude” AI‑altered images, with stiffer penalties and a 48‑hour takedown rule.
Restaurants Canada warns Manitoba’s PST plan on prepared foods gives grocery stores a tax advantage over restaurants, risking job losses in a sector employing more than 42,000 Manitobans.
Several cost‑of‑living measures from the provincial budget take effect this month, including utility supports and targeted credits.
Road construction crews are increasing activity on Highway 1 and Highway 10 after heavy frost damage, with Brandon‑area repairs prioritized. New EV chargers are also coming to Highway 16 through Neepawa and Minnedosa.
Spruce Woods Provincial Park is adding staff and completing trail repairs ahead of the May long weekend as early‑season demand surges.
Manitoba has not yet released a community list for new addictions treatment beds, but officials say they will be added to existing facilities in high‑demand regions such as Brandon, Dauphin and Swan River.
The Neepawa Salvation Army will open its expanded Community Services space on May 13, offering greater privacy, increased food‑bank capacity and room for future programming.
Northern India remains under a severe heatwave, with temperatures reaching 47°C and hospitals reporting spikes in heat‑related illness as emergency cooling centres open.
