As 2025 comes to a close, council for the RM of Coldwell is reflecting on a year marked by steady progress, community investment and collaboration.
“We had many exciting things happen in 2025,” council said.
One of the year’s most significant milestones was the opening of a new doctors’ office, which council described as a major step forward for local health services. The municipality also welcomed new business development with the opening of Northern Mods, a modular building company expected to contribute to local employment and economic growth.
Public safety was another key focus, highlighted by the purchase of a new fire pumper truck, an investment council believes will benefit the community for many years. Infrastructure improvements were also completed, including the replacement of the first block of Main Street sidewalks and curbs, extensive roadside clearing and drainage work, and expansion of the fairgrounds venue.
Several community-focused projects advanced throughout the year. A new 24-niche columbarium was added to the cemetery, museum building work continued, and the annual ice fishing tournament saw continued growth in popularity. Recreation remained strong, with the grand opening of the ball diamond, a project council said was “many years in the making and completed by many dedicated volunteer hours.” Upgrades were also made to the community pool, while the golf club reported a successful year.
Council said progress, both large and small, was worth celebrating, noting that reflecting on accomplishments by the municipality, businesses and community organizations was a highlight of the year.
Not all developments were positive. One of the most significant challenges in 2025 was the loss of the local credit union, a change that had a noticeable impact on residents and businesses. Despite this, council said the municipality remained financially stable, closing the year within budget and in a “good position.”
Some planned projects were delayed due to timing, availability and financial constraints. Repairs to a local statue and the development of a flagpole area behind it were postponed, as was completion of the new museum building. Council said work continued with the museum board to keep the project moving forward.
Collaboration remained a cornerstone of municipal operations in 2025. A joint waste disposal site with West Interlake continued to operate successfully, while the newly formed North West Interlake Health Advisory Group brought together the RMs of Grahamdale, West Interlake, Coldwell and St. Laurent, along with the Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority, to support regional health planning.
Council said one of the most rewarding aspects of the year was seeing growth across multiple sectors, from health care and business to recreation and cultural services, supported by strong partnerships between the municipality and community organizations.
Resident feedback throughout the year was largely positive, particularly regarding timely snow removal within town. While weather-related transportation concerns were raised, council noted residents were seeing value in the services being delivered.
Looking ahead to 2026, council identified three main priorities: construction of a new or refurbished fire hall, transformation of the curling rink into a community centre and continued economic development. Approved projects for the coming year include further improvements at Lundar North Cemetery, completion of the museum building and ongoing strategic planning. Council noted both the fire hall and community centre projects will depend on securing provincial or federal grant funding.
As the municipality enters the new year, council emphasized its commitment to transparency and dialogue.
“We saw forward progress in 2025,” council said, “and we hope to see even more in 2026.”
