In the first half of this week’s lengthy Neepawa Town Council meeting, the town welcomed new Councillor Dave Clark, received a report from the new area commander for the Spruce Plains RCMP, and discussed concerns over back lane access.

New Equipment for Healthcare Facilities

Councillor Sisley updated Council on several upcoming events but highlighted a meeting of the often-overlooked Sayward Estate Management Committee, which funds local healthcare initiatives.

Country Meadows will be one of the first rural care homes in the area to receive a bladder ultrasound, improving care and reducing the need to transport residents to other facilities. Meanwhile, the Neepawa Health Centre will be receiving new obstetrics equipment. With over 200 babies delivered in the community last year, obstetrics has become a significantly larger part of general hospital operations.

Rural Property Crime Focus

New area commander Staff Sergeant Andrew Cowan of the Spruce Plains RCMP circulated July crime statistics and asked Council for any concerns. Rural property crimes remain a priority for the detachment, while the overall crime rate has increased slightly.

In Neepawa, traffic complaints—particularly excessive speeding on highways leading into town—remain a concern. The RCMP is addressing this with increased patrol visibility and collaboration with Westman Traffic Services based in Minnedosa. Staffing shortages continue to challenge the detachment and the RCMP more broadly.

Reduced Alley Width Raises Concerns

Council received a letter from Harris Pharmacy regarding proposed fencing around a municipal lot designated for the post-secondary training facility. The fencing, which extends beyond current barricades, could impede semi-trailer access to loading docks, emergency vehicles, and garbage collection.

While Harris Pharmacy supports the town’s need for barriers as part of the training centre’s contracts, they requested Council reconsider the placement of the proposed fencing. Council will review the issue further.

Expedited Provincial Nominee Processing

The town is also entering a partnership with Brandon Economic Development to streamline access to the Provincial Nominee Program, an immigration stream for Manitoba. This agreement allows Neepawa employers to bypass significant red tape and fill skilled vacancies that are otherwise difficult to staff locally.

Other topics covered in the first half of the meeting included ongoing paving and concrete work, the arrival of a new doctor, and regular financial reports.

Rrain Prior – Local Journalism Initiative