Neepawa Council Debrief: Child Care Need Increases in Urgency

This week, the Neepawa Town Council focuses on public works and development, including rezoning for housing, patching streets, and sidewalk repair status, and handling the rising number of young people in the community.

The meeting starts with a public hearing for a map amendment that would allow for the building of five duplex units in the former CN Property subdivision. Several of the lots, which were originally zoned for residential single units, have already been rezoned to residential two-unit lots so these new units will be similar to their neighbours. There were no concerns raised at the hearing from the province, the regional planning office, or the neighbouring properties.

In Council reports, there are no significant issues raised for discussion at the Council level. Councillors report on recent town events including the Habitat for Humanity family selection meeting, the upcoming children’s business fair, the HAND AGM, and Paint With Pride. Councillor Nadeau notes that the Rossburn Subdivision Trail Association will now take responsibility for mowing the entire trail and the onus will no longer be on the various municipalities along its route. Councillor Gerrard advises Council and the community that the upcoming tree removal at the County Courthouse was a decision approved by the County Courthouse committee and only trees that are causing damage will be removed to preserve the lifespan of the building.

Manager of Operations Denis Saquet gives updates on the topic that’s on everyone’s mind - road repairs. The pothole patching equipment that the town has rented for the month was received and is at work throughout the town, and they will continue as long as the weather cooperates. If needed, and with Council’s approval, the equipment rental can be extended past the end of the month. The town has also reviewed bids for a contract to install new sidewalks and do concrete repairs.

Council has received a petition and letter of support from residents to encourage the expansion of the Buds N Bloom daycare. It was recently revealed that the waiting list for daycare spots in town exceeds 200 people. Council and the community are very much on the same page about the need for more daycare spots, which includes not only facilities but also caregivers, and the town recently partnered to offer a local early childhood education program through Assiniboine Community College.

Also covered are an agreement to extend natural gas service through the eastern industrial park, Evergreen Environmental’s annual financial statements, the annual Municipal and Northern Relations operating grant, the Neepawa Fire Hall paving project, and a subdivision request on Brown Avenue.

The town also notes that more volunteers are needed to help with the Canada Day festivities, and Councilor Sisley encourages her fellow Councillors to lead by example and volunteer for the event themselves if they are able.