The RM of Grahamdale is reflecting on its accomplishments throughout 2025.
Assistant chief administrative officer Devan McCoubrey said the municipality is most proud of its shift toward long-term planning and stronger regional collaboration.
“Council and administration began working more closely with neighbouring municipalities and exploring a more strategic approach to how services are offered,” she said.
The municipality completed a community-driven strategic planning process with the support of Community Futures West Interlake, identifying nine priority projects to pursue over the coming years.
The municipal economic development officer is still in the process of composing detailed plans of action for the identified projects, once made, they will have a clearer understanding of which projects to move forward with first. More information on the projects will be released in the coming months.
Council also celebrated progress made on aggregate exploration work, which McCoubrey said is “a huge step toward supporting future infrastructure needs in the municipality.”
Two major challenges stood out during the year: the increasing impacts of climate change and ongoing budget pressures.
Climate change brought increased drought conditions and heightened wildfire risks.
“Both place significant pressure on emergency services and, of course, our local agriculture industry,” McCoubrey said.
She noted council addressed these challenges by focusing on preparedness, advocacy and lobbying on behalf of local producers.
They ensured their emergency plan was up to date, including meetings legislated requirements for emergency management and ensuring appropriate staff and volunteers were trained. The RM also benefits from strong relationships formed with their emergency management consultant, Shelley Napier, and the provincial emergency management representative.
“In addition, our fire chiefs and administration are continually assessing equipment, vehicles and the level of service provided by our fire departments, to ensure they are well positioned to respond to wildfire risk and other emergency situations,” McCoubrey added.
Inflation and rising costs also had an impact, prompting council to look for more efficient and sustainable ways of operating while exploring new approaches to managing costs without reducing services.
McCoubrey described the RM’s financial position as “strong” heading into the end of the year, citing several grants received and the strategic use of reserves to fund major purchases.
The largest purchase budgeted for was a new pumper truck for the Moosehorn Fire Department.
“This investment significantly strengthens local fire protection and emergency response capacity and will benefit the municipality for decades to come,” McCoubrey said.
She added council remains very mindful of preserving the RM’s financial position, noting that maintaining reserve accounts is critical to managing risk and ensuring long-term success.
“There is always a balance — moving forward with projects and infrastructure upgrades while protecting our financial health,” she said.
Other projects council had hoped to advance this year included the Faulkner and Pinemuta waste disposal sites and the Steep Rock drainage project. While there was clear direction and momentum, McCoubrey explained the processes took longer than expected due to provincial and regulatory requirements.
Overall, McCoubrey said 2025 reaffirmed why the RM of Grahamdale is a great place to work, describing her role as her “dream job.” She said collaborating with council, brainstorming ideas for success and connecting with the community all remind her why she is passionate about her career.
“My colleagues and I spend a lot of time thinking about how we can improve processes, operate more efficiently and create more sustainable systems,” she added. “Knowing this work helps shape the future of the community I live in is very rewarding, and it’s exciting to see so many great ideas taking shape.”
Community feedback also reflects positively on the municipality, with residents expressing that they feel supported when reaching out for help. McCoubrey emphasized that all feedback is valued and appreciated by council — whether it highlights what residents love or areas they would like to see improved.
In February, council will begin discussions on the 2026 budget and determine which projects to prioritize. McCoubrey expects a focus on several key infrastructure initiatives, including drainage work in Steep Rock Subdivisions 1 and 2, the cottage lot subdivision along Lafarge Road and Lakeshore Road, and continued upgrades to the Faulkner and Pinemuta waste disposal sites. Council is also expected to explore additional fire protection measures in Steep Rock.
The Moosehorn Fire Hall expansion has already been approved and is necessary to accommodate the new pumper truck, which is scheduled to arrive in March 2027.
“2025 was a year spent building the foundation for long-term success,” McCoubrey said. “And 2026 will be a year focused on action.”
