February 12, 2015
Manitoba Government Announces Interlake Water Services Infrastructure Projects
– – –More than $4 Million Invested, Projects to Benefit Families, Businesses, Job Creation, the Lake Winnipeg Watershed: Minister Caldwell
SELKIRK—Residents and business owners in four Interlake municipalities are benefiting from improved water and waste-water systems as the Manitoba government invests more than $4 million to improve or replace local water supply and disposal services, Municipal Government Minister Drew Caldwell announced here today.
“We are committed to projects that support economic growth and help build strong communities in rural Manitoba,” said Minister Caldwell. “Upgrading water lines, water treatment facilities and sewer systems will help businesses create jobs and opportunities that will support families and businesses looking to commit to these communities for the long term.”
Through the Manitoba Water Services Board, the Manitoba government will share the cost of the projects with the rural communities on a 50-50 basis, said Minister Caldwell. The cost of projects in the Interlake area total more than $8 million, he added.
“The need for projects like these exists all across Manitoba, but they require partnerships for municipalities to achieve them,” said Doug Dobrowolski, president, Association of Manitoba Municipalities. “It is only through 50-50 cost sharing that these important projects can move forward.”
Minister Caldwell noted the City of Selkirk is receiving $375,000 to secure an environmental and water rights license for a supplemental water supply to meet future water demands.
“This is a much-needed second water source for Selkirk,” said Mayor Larry Johannson, City of Selkirk. “It will address our needs for both residents and development for many years to come. It will also allow us to be able to work with our neighbours to help with their water needs. It’s another example of the strong partnership between the province and the city. Together we are moving forward on infrastructure improvements.”
“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/2015/02/BG-Water_Services_Selkirk-MG.doc