Gimli council approved a conditional use application for a proposed cannabis store in Sandy Hook on Highway 9 at Pine Avenue.
Gimli council approved a conditional use application for a proposed cannabis store in Sandy Hook on Highway 9 at the junction of Pine Avenue
Council held a public hearing on March 25 to review the application to permit the operation of a retail store — in this case offering cannabis products — in an area zoned residential resort zone (SRR). Retail stores, services or offices have to be approved by council in SRR zones.
Applicants Denny and Dennis Sveinson said in their proposal that the property on Highway 9 has been vacant for years, and they have a detailed business plan for the cannabis store.
“We have prepared a detailed business plan, and proposed use with site plan for the lots that once housed the former Ellie’s Corner restaurant. This property has remained vacant for a number of years, and both the owners (Ellie and Good Gowie) and ourselves would like to see it finally being used again,” wrote the Sveinsons in their proposal.
They said they’re in the process of purchasing two adjoining vacant lots at the junction for a year-round operation. The store will offer legal cannabis products, dried flower, pre-rolls, edible, concentrates and beverages, cannabis accessories and possibly takeaway coffee.
“Our intention it to develop a professionally operated, age-restricted cannabis retail store that will serve the Matlock, Winnipeg Beach, Sandy Hook and Gimli areas in a safe, responsible and community-minded manner,” they wrote.
The store would accommodate a minimum of four to five parking spaces and create “local employment opportunities.” It would be operated in full compliance with Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries and the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority of Manitoba.
The proposal received a number of objections (available under council’s March 25 agenda) from nearby residents, who cited, among a number of concerns, a lack of demonstrated need as there’s an established cannabis store in the municipality and incompatibility with residential resort zoning.
“Sandy Hook and the surrounding Winnipeg Beach area are widely recognized as family-oriented residential and resort communities. Many residents and visitors choose the area for its quiet character and recreational environment,” wrote Zane Lomatski. “While cannabis retail is legal and regulated, placing multiple cannabis retailers within a small geographic area may not align with the overall character and expectations of a resort-residential setting.”
A cannabis store could potentially lower property values, said other residents.
“A cannabis store could create odour nuisances, detract from the peaceful environment and potentially lower property values,” wrote Sonia and Jay Ramanand. “Approving this location may also set a precedent for future commercial development that is inconsistent with the intended character of the area.” Andy Dale spoke to the possible influence a cannabis store could have on children and youth.
“This is a family-focused neighbourhood with many children, seasonal residents and recreational visitors. Placing a cannabis retail store within a fully residential area increases visibility of adult-oriented products and introduces a use that many parents consider inappropriate so close to homes, yards and areas where children walk and play,” wrote Dale.
Council spokesperson Christine Payne said council approved the conditional use for a retail development, adding that it “may include cannabis sales.”
“Council approved the conditional use for a retail development at 102068 Highway 9 that may include cannabis sales, subject to provincial licensing and municipal permits. As outlined in the resolution, conditions of approval include set store hours from 8 a.m. to no later than 10 p.m., Monday to Sunday, as well as the demolition of the existing building and full site cleanup by Aug. 1, 2026, to the satisfaction of the municipality,” said Payne.
Other council news:
• Council’s March 25 public agenda noted “resignations” at the Gimli Community Cemetery.
When asked who resigned and why, Payne said Dawn Harris, Rose Marie Hess, Sharon Mulder and Sue Heathcote.
“The Gimli Community Cemetery has been supported for decades by a volunteer committee, but as operations and regulatory requirements have become more complex, the committee recommended that management return to the Rural Municipality of Gimli,” said Payne. “This transition allows for consistent oversight, long‑term sustainability and continuity of service while recognizing and respecting the many years of dedicated volunteer leadership. Through collaboration and planning, it was decided that the RM of Gimli will assume responsibility for the assets and liabilities of the Gimli Community Cemetery effective April 1, 2026.”
• Council discussed capital purchases for the Gimli Fire Department, but Payne was unable to say what equipment council had been approved.
“All capital purchases will be considered at our April 15 financial plan hearing,” she said.
• Council approved forwarding a proposal to the federal government to have the air cadets flying program return to Gimli.
“Council approved submitting a formal proposal to the Department of National Defence to support a possible return of the cadet flying training centre in summer 2026. Final approval rests with DND,” said Payne.
She declined to say where the cadets would be lodged when asked.
• A resident in the Vesturland neighbourhood expressed concern about a dog, which resides on Solvin Road at a residence west of the Lakeside Church, that was running off-leash in its yard.
Earlier this year, a 72-year-old Gimli man had been attacked by the dog and needed hospital treatment (see Feb 26 online edition of the Express Weekly News).
When the Express asked whether there were any requirements imposed with regard to the dog, Payne said: “The RM can only speak to information reported to animal control. No complaint was received regarding this matter, and animal control patrols have not observed the dog off‑leash. Any enforcement actions are based solely on verified reports and observations.”
• Council reviewed Bylaw 26-0004, which establishes campaign expenses and contributions for the next municipal election. Registered candidates’ campaign expenses are as follows: a $7,000 limit for head of council and a $5,000 limit for councillors.
Campaign spending limits are not set by the Municipal Act, said a spokesperson for the province. That’s up to municipal councils, which are required to pass a campaign-financing bylaw to establish candidates’ expense limits.
“Councils have full discretion to determine what the spending limits will be within their municipality. Any changes to a campaign‑financing bylaw must be adopted at least 180 days before a general election,” said the spokesperson. “If a candidate contravenes the municipality’s campaign‑financing bylaw, section 93.19(1) provides a person who contravenes specific campaign‑finance provisions or a bylaw passed under section 93.2 is guilty of an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine of not more than $5,000.”
