The Rural Municipality of Dufferin moved ahead with a key infrastructure decision at a special council meeting on Nov. 4, approving a preferred option for a gravity-based sewer extension and receiving a brief update on the McEachern Bridge project.
Council focused its discussion on a long-standing sewer proposal affecting a cluster of properties. Following review of information received from Manitoba Conservation and a comparison of available options, council voted in favour of Option 1, a partial gravity sewer extension supported by low-pressure service laterals. The approved plan calls for approximately 329 metres of 10-inch gravity sewer to be installed, with each affected property required to connect to the new system using a high-density polyethylene low-pressure service line tied into the existing pump within their current septic or holding tank. The project is estimated at $342,865.60 plus applicable taxes.
“Council selected Option 1 because it is the most affordable and flexible solution. This option not only reduces upfront costs but also allows the RM to expand the service line further in the future if growth or additional connections are required. Overall, Option 1 provides the best balance between cost-effectiveness and long-term capacity,” said Chief Administrative Officer Sharla Murray.
As work on the sewer extension proceeds, council confirmed that property owners will be notified directly about next steps.
“The RM will be meeting directly with the residents and businesses that would benefit from the service line extension. These meetings will provide clear information about required connections, timelines, and any on-site preparations property owners may need to plan for,” Murray said.
Council is also monitoring potential funding supports that could offset project costs.
“The RM is monitoring potential funding opportunities, particularly in light of the recent AMM resolution requesting the Manitoba Government to increase Manitoba Water Services Board (MWSB) funding. If additional funding becomes available, the RM hopes to apply to help offset the project costs. Normally, MWSB funding applications must be submitted well in advance as municipalities are required to provide a five-year project ‘wish list,’ but council remains hopeful that new opportunities may emerge,” she said.
During the meeting, council received an update on the McEachern Bridge file. Samson Engineering reported it is still awaiting final comments from Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure regarding the required permit. The bridge is being considered as a potential 2026 winter project pending approvals.
At its Nov. 4 meetings, the RM dealt with a wide range of additional planning and administrative matters, including preparations for 2026, public works updates and drainage items. Council reviewed 2025 committee reports ahead of broader planning for the coming year.
Council also received watershed updates from the Redboine Watershed District, the Red River Basin South Chapter and several subdistricts.
“Council received routine updates from the watershed districts and subdistricts, with no new concerns identified at this time. The RM will continue to monitor regional water conditions and collaborate with watershed partners to stay informed and prepared as planning for 2026 continues,” Murray said.
Updated 911 fee schedules showing increases in both 2025 and 2026 were also reviewed.
“The 911 fee is rising, along with many other service costs. The RM will need to work diligently to hold the line wherever possible to help mitigate tax increases. As budgets tighten, securing grants and external funding for infrastructure and service projects becomes even more important to maintain service levels without placing additional strain on ratepayers,” she said.
Public Works reported on fuel pricing through Canoe, amendments to project work orders, new work orders and tile drainage for SE 7-7-5 W and the south half of 9-7-5 W. Council reviewed two by-laws: a Pembina Valley Water Co-op pass-through by-law required to reflect PUB-approved water rates, and a waterline connection local improvement by-law that proceeded to a Nov. 18 public hearing.
Correspondence included provincial and AMM notices, a STARS fall 2025 letter and updated 911 fee schedules. Under unfinished business, council confirmed a private drainage agreement for SE 13-7-6W, final licensing for W18-7-5W, a temporary cross request from South Bow, an unsightly property update and final approval of subdivision 4120-25-8459. New business included Roseisle community signs, a planning inquiry and a private works agreement for ditch work at NE 9-6-6 WPM.
