Carman council advanced its 2026 financial plan, passed a new property standards bylaw and approved several development and infrastructure items during its March 26 meeting, before formally adopting the budget and addressing additional policy and planning matters on April 7.
At the March 26 meeting, council gave second and third readings to a new unsightly property bylaw, formally adopting regulations aimed at addressing property maintenance and community standards. The move provides the town with clearer authority to manage neglected or unsightly properties.
“The change made to the by-law is in regard to large commercial/residential bins and location. They are now required to consult with the Town on location prior to installation to ensure they are not unsightly. Any enforcement would be done through Administration or By-Law Commissionaires if required,” said CAO Susan Stein.
Work on the town’s 2026 financial plan also progressed, with council holding a public hearing before giving first reading to the financial plan bylaw.
“Key priorities are to increase reserves, complete the trestle bridge project, installing a lift station in the NW corner for the 2nd phase of the Parkview Development, Road improvements/rehabilitation, Recreation work at the pool and equipment, front end loader purchase for public works. Focusing on improving Asset Management and long-term planning. Council is also focused on improving health care working with the Carman Health Board and Southern Health as well as the expansion of an assisted living facility at Boyne Care,” Stein said.
Development activity remained a focus, as council approved two subdivision applications, both subject to conditions. The approvals require applicants to cover a portion of any monument restoration costs, if needed, and to seek any necessary zoning variations or conditional use approvals.
Infrastructure planning also moved forward with the Carman-Dufferin Fire Hall expansion. Council approved a quote from Steckley’s Engineering to review and update architectural drawings and tender documents, selecting the lowest bid among proposals received. The work will help prepare the project for future tendering while maintaining its original scope.
In other business, council awarded the 2026 mowing contract for local ball diamonds and soccer pitches to Fairway Lawn Services and approved recreation staff wage increases in line with the employee pay scale.
Council also supported a resolution calling on the Association of Manitoba Municipalities to lobby the province for financial assistance related to landfill regulations, citing the high and unpredictable costs of meeting new environmental standards.
At its April 7 meeting, council formally adopted the 2026 financial plan, giving second and third readings to the bylaw following the earlier public hearing.
Council also approved an updated accessibility policy.
In addition, council supported the Carman Community Health Board in proceeding with developing a cost estimate for a proposed expansion, engaging a consultant to complete the work.
“The goal is to determine the feasibility and cost of expanding local health care services to better meet the needs of the community,” Stein said.
Council reviewed accounts totalling more than $365,000 and discussed upcoming road improvements as part of the superintendent’s report.
