Westman News Roundup: City Shifts Washroom Plan, Measles Alerts Issued, Clear Lake Ban Lifted
Brandon City Council is changing course on its downtown washroom strategy. The city has scrapped plans for a standalone 24‑7 facility and will instead pursue a more comprehensive hygiene hub that would include washrooms, showers, and laundry services. According to the Brandon Sun, the Princess Park washroom will remain open around the clock while planning for the larger hub moves ahead.
New Measles Exposure Sites Identified
Manitoba Health has issued two new measles exposure alerts in Westman. Potential exposure occurred at Brandon’s 34th Street Bar & Grill on March 28 and Neepawa’s Beautiful Plains Clinic on March 27. Officials advise anyone who was at those locations during the listed times to monitor for symptoms over the coming weeks. These are the latest sites added since two exposures were reported at Brandon clinics in mid‑March.
Province Ends Reporting on COVID‑19 Fine Totals
The Manitoba government says it will no longer release updated financial details about unpaid COVID‑19 fines. Millions in penalties remain outstanding, but no current total is available. During the pandemic, federal quarantine violations carried potential fines of more than $8,000.
Clear Lake Watercraft Ban Lifted
After two seasons of restrictions, watercraft will be allowed back on Clear Lake this season. Parks Canada announced the end of the ban, which was introduced in 2024 to slow the spread of invasive species. New rules will apply, including two weekly days reserved exclusively for non‑motorized watercraft.
Manitoba Parks Opens 2026 Reservations Soon
Campers can begin booking 2026 Manitoba Parks campsites starting April 13, with reservation days staggered across five days. This year’s system includes a new availability‑notification tool and introduces a $10 cancellation fee.
Skills Manitoba Draws 500 Students
Roughly 500 students from across the province are in Winnipeg today for the annual Skills Manitoba competition. Participants are competing in more than 40 hands‑on, Olympic‑style skilled‑trade events, ranging from robotics and manufacturing to animation, construction, and hairstyling. Westman students had a strong showing last year, including 18 medalists from Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School.
BU Research Team Seeks Farmer Wellness Insights
A Brandon University research team is recruiting farmers and agricultural workers to share real‑life wellness strategies. The project will gather experiences through interviews and focus groups to help build a practical advocacy toolkit aimed at improving mental‑health supports in the ag sector.
Artemis II Crew Nears Splashdown
NASA’s Artemis II crew is on track to splash down Friday in the Pacific Ocean off San Diego. The return will wrap up their test mission ahead of next year’s planned lunar flight, following final checks of onboard systems.
United Way to Reveal Campaign Goal
The Brandon and District United Way is set to unveil its “BE The One” campaign goal at a celebration lunch and volunteer appreciation event today. The organization supports 25 local agencies delivering 34 programs throughout the region.
