December 18, 2014
Manitoba Government Invests Nearly $12 Million in Water Services Infrastructure in Western Municipalities
– – –Provincial Support of Water Services Projects will Help Grow Rural Economies, Protect Environment: Minister Caldwell
PIPESTONE—The Manitoba government is investing nearly $12 million to improve water and
waste-water systems in 12 western municipalities by upgrading and replacing local water supply and disposal services, Municipal Government Minister Drew Caldwell announced here today.
“We are committed to supporting projects that strengthen economies in rural Manitoba,” said Minister Caldwell. “These projects will provide people with better access to clean water and waste-water disposal, improve the efficiency of local water services, and help attract businesses and families to these communities.”
Through the Manitoba Water Stewardship Board, the Manitoba government will share the cost of the projects with the rural communities on a 50-50 basis, said Minister Caldwell. The total investment by the Manitoba government under the 2014-15 Manitoba Water Services Board Capital Plan is more than $26 million.
“The need for these types of infrastructure projects exist all across Manitoba and we are pleased that our members can cost-share them with the provincial government,” said Doug Dobrowolski, president, Association of Manitoba Municipalities. “It is only through partnerships that we can promote further growth and development in our communities.”
Minister Caldwell noted the Rural Municipality of Pipestone is receiving $1.85 million for the expansion of the rural water pipeline within the municipality.
“On behalf of the residents of the RM of Pipestone, I would like to thank Minister Caldwell and government for their generous assistance in helping us complete the next phase of our water line,” said Reeve Archie McPherson. “Everyone is deeply concerned about clean water and our environment and it is encouraging to see various levels of government working together for a common cause.”
“Ensuring Manitoba communities have access to clean water while enhancing the quality of that water is a priority of this government,” said Minister Caldwell. “At the same time, we must ensure the protection of that supply and the environment through the safe and secure management and disposal of waste water and sewage. Working with municipalities, we are finding cost-effective ways to address the need for nutrient control at all regional waste-water treatment facilities and lagoons, which also supports our commitment to safeguard the water quality of Lake Winnipeg for future generations.”
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED
Backgrounder
Background Information - https://www.gov.mb.ca/asset_library/en/newslinks/2014/12/RLS-Western_Water_Infrastructure_BG-MG.doc