The Rural Municipality of Dufferin council moved ahead on infrastructure and community safety items this fall, giving final approval to a new camping and encampments bylaw and supporting funding applications for joint projects with the Town of Carman.
At its Sept. 16 regular meeting, council voted to apply to Manitoba’s Growth, Renewal and Opportunities (GRO) program to help fund a Carman-Dufferin fire hall expansion, with Dufferin committing 25 per cent of the total cost and the province to cover up to half.
Reeve Cor Lodder said the project represents a key step in strengthening emergency response and supporting those who serve the community.
“This expansion will enhance our fire hall to meet the growing needs of our dedicated staff and provide opportunities for health and wellness care,” he said.
Council also approved two tile drainage projects for Oakridge Holdings and an irrigation pipeline installation for Owen Potato Farm, aimed at improving agricultural water management. A water-line connection request from a local ratepayer was also approved.
Council further confirmed PIER Solutions as construction manager for the Carman Concrete Bridge rehabilitation — part of an ongoing infrastructure renewal effort — and renewed its snow-removal agreement with the Province of Manitoba for the 2025–26 season.
Lodder said feedback from residents and partners about Dufferin’s forward-looking approach has been encouraging.
“It has been positive. Promoting a strategic growth plan is essential for generational planning,” he said.
The meeting also included discussion on the Carman-Dufferin Airport expansion proposal, local recreation concerns, and various inter-municipal reports.
At a special meeting on Oct. 14, council gave second and third readings to By-law 2042, regulating camping, encampments and temporary shelters within the municipality. The bylaw is intended to promote resident safety and community well-being.
“A safe and beautiful community must have structure and livability guidelines for living,” Lodder said.
Council also approved the joint purchase of a new floor scrubber for the Carman-Dufferin Arena at a cost of $7,895, with the old unit to be reassigned to the community hall. Fuel purchases will continue through DMM.
Lodder said such shared initiatives strengthen community connections.
“Team efforts build a stronger and more vibrant community for all,” he said.
In addition, Dufferin council endorsed a resolution urging the provincial government to increase the Manitoba Water Services Board’s annual capital budget from $24 million to $100 million beginning in 2026, citing the growing need for rural water and wastewater infrastructure support.
“A more stable and effective planning system helps with economic development opportunities,” Lodder said.
