Parks
Parks
Ensuring our parks are clean, green and vibrant is a priority of mine. I will be working with the community over the next four years to ensure we are very good stewards of our parks, and that greenspaces support our active outdoor lifestyles.
Parks are the jewels in our community; they are where we can escape from the daily grind of life in the city. Parks are not only are critical to our health and well-being, they contribute to a healthy environment, act as a hub for our community, and help increase property values. In the South Winnipeg–St. Norbert Ward, we are fortunate to have an abundance of parks, both formally maintained by City staff and passively maintained by Mother Nature.
For more information, visit Park Bench Donation Program and Parks and Fields.

Adopting a Park – Albrin Park
Photos by Colleen Zacharias / Winnipeg Free Press Members of the Albrin Park Tree Enhancement Project, from left, Ian Wise, Debbie Innes, Stuart Innes, Loressa Klassen. Thank you so much to area residents who have ‘adopted’ a park and are transforming a once...

Scurfield Park: An Invitation to Support Winnipeg’s Iranian Community by Planting Trees
Please join us as we plant trees on a beautiful fall day. Date: Saturday, October 1, 2022 Time: 11:00 am – 1:00 pm Locaion: Scurfield Park: Use pathway entrance between Hillberry Bay and Prospect Road Whyte Ridge Neighbourhood Vehicle parking on Columbia Drive &...

Parks in Waverley West
We have just over 248 hectares of parks and open spaces just in the Waverley West ward – which is equivalent to 500 Canadian football fields!! Some are formalized parks that have official names and have amenities such as playstructure, firepits, and shade structures –...

Reducing Red Tape – Tree Planting
Photo Credit: Winnipeg Free Press Update: I am very disappointed that Public Service could not come up with a way to reduce the complexity involved in allowing residents to plant trees on public property. See details in their May 6, 2022 Requirements for Community...

New Beachfront Entry for Paddle-craft at La Barrière Park
Photos: Doug Little Incredible week – incredible Friday 13th! Beyond thrilled to officially open the new beachfront canoe & kayak launch at La Barrière Park with Councillor Markus Chambers, Jeff Vincent and Paddle Manitoba! Years planning by City staff – excellent...

Stabilizing Retention Basin in Thelma J. Call Park
Residents have been reaching out to me with respect to the unstable retention basin and the sinking pathway in Thelma J. Call Park. The City has awarded the contract and the project is now starting! The City of Winnipeg's project to stabilize a segment of the...

Responsible Pet Ownership
My office is receiving an incredibly high number of calls related to dogs running loose with no leashes, and owners not picking up pooch poos! We love our furry animals, but we have to be responsible owners and respectful of other people. There are more and more...

Discovering Parks in the Waverley Ward
We have over 248 hectares of parks and open spaces just in the Waverley West ward! That is equivalent to 500 Canadian football fields!! Some are formalized parks, with park identifications signs, and have amenities such as playstructure, firepits, and shade structures...

Update: Crossing McGillivray to FortWhyte Alive
For many years, prior to being elected, as Winnipeg Trails Coordinator, and now as a City Councillor I’ve been working with various groups, and FortWhyte Alive to secure a safe pedestrian crossing from the neighbourhood of Whyte Ridge to FortWhyte Alive. This...

Protecting Waterfront Greenspace – 409 Mulvey Ave East
Development and Waterfront Greenspace I am not supportive of selling waterfront lands. SEE: Lukes' presentation to Mayor and his Executive Policy Committee We can have both development and waterfront greenspace if done properly – which would require time and planning...

Public Greenspace
Please know I am acutely aware of the importance of protecting green space and will do all I can to ensure greenspace is protected, and made available for public use. For years prior to being elected, and now in this role – I’ve worked to protect greenspace – here are...

Waverley West Parks, Pictures & Prizes Challenge
https://youtu.be/KNlHapVUKhc We have over 248 hectares of parks and open spaces just in the Waverley West ward! That is equivalent to 500 Canadian football fields!! Some are formalized parks, with park identifications signs, and have amenities such as...

Putting Down Roots
Photo Credit: SOU'WESTER Great tree planting in fall of 2020! Over 100 trees planted – thank you Susie Strachan of the Sou’wester community newspaper for covering this great activity! Putting down roots By: Susie Strachan Posted: 09/25/2020 Young trees found new...

Albrin Park Pathway Reconstruction
Albrin Park Pathway will close for reconstruction effective June 11, 2020. The pathway reconstruction will include widening, installation of a new asphalt surface, and installation of new benches. Details can be found in the letter sent to residents. ADDITIONAL...

Students Secure Accessible Swing Set for Classmates
We have a super exciting project occurring because of a very thoughtful team of active and engaged students at HGI School in Whyte Ridge! Lili and Leilani, along with Mrs. Menzies have been working with classmates to raise money to install an accessible swing, a...

2020 Parks Update
We have many parks and open greenspaces in the Waverley West ward. Each year Councillors meet with the Parks department and review upgrades that need to occur. In the Waverley West ward, the majority of parks are maintained by the City Parks department, but, some are...

Scurfield Park Upgrades
Scurfield Park is a well-loved greenspace that is in need of long overdue upgrades. It’s a large park so I’ve been working with the Parks Department to ensure an upgrade occurs each year. Last year I upgraded the entrance signage to Whyte Ridge – at the park entrance...

Replacement of Sod – Bridgwater Lakes & Bridgwater Forest
The sod around the Bridgwater Lakes Fountain, the Bridgwater Lakes park / soccer field and the Bridgwater Forest park/soccer field is being replaced this summer. Construction has started in Bridgwater Lakes and Bridgwater Forest will occur shortly after. Existing sod...

The Kidney’s in our Neighbourhoods are Full!
Look around and you will see that all the storm water retention ponds in our neighbourhoods are full – probably the fullest some of them have ever been! PLEASE take care and keep your distance from the water as it will remain high for some time now that the grounds...

Private Service Providers in City Facilities
It was brought to my attention that Private Service Providers (PSP's) are using City facilities and I've asked for a report from the department. On Sept 11th I moved the Motion: Private Service Providers Using City of Winnipeg Recreation Facilities BE IT RESOLVED that...

Scurfield Park Upgrades
Last fall – I biked and walked through Scurfield park and worked with the Parks department to conduct an assessment. I’ve been to Scurfield park many times, as I used to live on Bessboro many years ago. I must say, I don’t think any upgrades have occurred in the park...

Whyte Ridge Community Centre opens new accessible fitness park
(Photo credit: Global News) Thank you to both the President, and Director of Whyte Ridge CC, Curtis and Chris, and Nino from Movement Generation Inc. for helping to bring this project to fruition. What a great addition to the park for all to enjoy! Thank you also to...

Update: Canadian Goose Population In Waverley West
If you are noticing an increase in populations of geese in Waverley West this year – you are correct. According to City Staff who focus on our urban geese: See Data on Waverley West geese and ponds. According to Kristin Tuchscherer, Naturalist - Education Coordinator...

Responsible Pet Ownership
Over the next few months, Animal Services will be focusing on patroling in Waverley West. By-law officers will be frequencing the parks and walkways in the ward ensuring pet owners are complying with the Responsible Pet Ownership By-law. Pet owners must remove their...

Provincial Pesticide Legislation – Dandelions & More!
The City’s had to change their weed control program in 2015 due to new Provincial legislation (Non-Essential Pesticide Use Regulation under the Environment Act) which restricts traditional pesticide use on lawns. This means that the City CAN NO LONGER use certain...

2019 Plans For Our Parks
I recently met with the Parks department for our annual review of the parks, playground and greenspaces in the Waverley West ward, and to set plan for upcoming park improvements. IF there are improvements to parks that you don’t see listed here but would like to...

Kirkbridge Park Upgrades
Kirkbridge Park receives $345,000 investment in park upgrades Very exciting to see this three year project become a reality! I’ve worked with the Richmond West Neighbourhood Association and area residents to identify and prioritize upgrades. Community parks play a...

Expansion Of Cricket In South Winnipeg
This is an outstanding project that I’ve had the honour to work on with the Manitoba Cricket Association and community leaders. The addition of these two new cricket fields is a significant step forward towards the advancement of cricket in Manitoba. Thanks to the...

June 13th OPEN HOUSE – YOUR Recreation and Park Priorities
In Southwest Winnipeg, we know there is a recreation deficit and lack of maintenance for our parks and greenspaces due to rapid growth, and a lack of proper planning for new developments. The City of Winnipeg needs to hear from you! I ENCOURAGE you to attend the June...

Emerald Ash Borer Devastation
(Photo Credit: Jason Unrau, Blacklock's Reporter) The City of Winnipeg is at risk of losing all of its ash trees due to Emerald Ash Borer. Emerald Ash Borer cannot be eradicated once it is detected. There are approximately 101,000 ash trees on boulevards and in parks...

King’s Park Water Fountain
According to the most recent update this week from the Parks Department, they expect testing of the new fountain will occur in mid to late June and with the goal of having the fountain fully operational by July. This was the first project I approved when elected, and...

Off Leash Dog Park Master Plan & Survey
The City of Winnipeg is developing an Off-Leash Dog Areas Master Plan to respond to growing interest and demand for off-leash dog areas in Winnipeg. The Master Plan will address the needs of all park users and will develop a vision and implementation strategy for...

Public Invited to Provide Input on City Wide Recreation & Parks Strategies
The City of Winnipeg is undergoing a City Wide review of recreation and parks infrastructure. I encourage you to fill out the survey and attend upcoming open houses. PLEASE NOTE: South West Winnipeg residents, when you are filling out the survey and are asked where...

Minutes from Health and Care of Bridgwater Forest Meeting
Mr. Rodney Penner, City Naturalist attended the Feb 15th meeting and provided residents a detailed overview of the report I commissioned looking at the health of the forest in Bridgwater. I encourage everyone to read the Naturalist's Report in detail. NEXT STEPS: ...

Athletic Fields – Access and Maintenance Draft Plan
The aim of the Athletic Field Review is to ensure City athletic fields are well maintained, fairly allocated and used to the fullest extent possible. The recommendations that result from this review will guide how the City will manage and provide access to athletic...

Community Meeting on Health of Bridgwater Forest
Community Meeting on Health and Care of Bridgwater Forest You are invited to attend this meeting to learn more about the health and care of the trees and vegetation in Bridgwater Forest. Individual invites are being mailed to residents whose property backs onto the...

Help Shape Winnipeg’s Master Plan for Off-Leash Dog Areas
The City of Winnipeg operates 10 off-leash dog areas within the City's Parks system (see map below). In recent years, use of off-leash dog areas has significantly increased, and as a result, a need has been identified to increase the number of these areas. In 2012, a...

New Pedestrian Bridge in King’s Park
On October 14, 2017, we celebrated the unveiling of a new pedestrian bridge in King's Park. The bridge replacements are one of several capital improvements totaling about $2 million for King’s Park which is a regional park. Other improvements include recent riverbank...

Water on the Land – Resource Guide for School and Community Development Projects
Prior to being elected as City Councillor for the South Winnipeg-St. Norbert ward, I was very pleased to secure funding and lead the development of the Water on the Land resource guide. Water on the Land contributes to a wider understanding of the concept of...

Developing a Care/Maintenance Program for Bridgwater Forest
Please consider joining myself, Bridgwater residents, and the City’s Parks and Naturalist Services Departments as we work towards developing a care and maintenance program for Bridgwater Forest. When dense urban environment is constructed around a natural forest, the...

Parks & Greenspace – Updates for 2017-2018 Construction Seasons
2017 CONSTRUCTION UPDATES Many of these parks projects have been in the consultation and planning process, and now are actually being constructed in 2017! There is much detail that goes into park improvements, and I want to extend much gratitude to the resident groups...

Bridgwater Forest: Park Maintenance, Forest Health & Fountain
The Neighbourhoods of Bridgwater consist of three communities: Bridgwater Forest, Bridgwater Lakes and Bridgwater Trails. Bridgwater Forest was the first residential community to be developed by the Province's Manitoba Housing division. Bridgwater Forest is designed...

New Community Garden in Fort Richmond – Plots Still Available!
I am very pleased to announce that we have just opened a new community garden in Fort Richmond! I worked closely with community residents as well as the City Parks Department to establish this much needed amenity in the South Winnipeg-St. Norbert Ward. There's...

Information Evening: The Health of Bridgwater Forest
Calling all Nature Lovers and Tree Huggers who care about the future of the trees and creatures who live in Bridgwater Forest! Please join me at an Information Evening on the Health of Bridgwater Forest: DATE: Tuesday, June 27, 2017 TIME: 7:00 to 8:30 pm LOCATION: ...

June 10th Trails Day Celebration in South Winnipeg-St. Norbert Ward!
Please join me on Saturday, June 10 as we unveil TWO new, unique benches on the Bishop Grandin Greenway! I’m VERY pleased to be providing funding support for these benches in the South Winnipeg-St. Norbert Ward. Through a partnership with the Winnipeg Trails...

Tick Awareness Month – Stay Safe This Summer
As we move into May, it's time to start thinking about summer in Winnipeg. Whether it's enjoying our City's parks, concerts and festivals, or having a picnic in your own back yard, it's all part of being outdoors, and making those important connections with nature,...

Control Programs for Forest Tent Caterpillars & Elm Bark Beetles
Forest Tent Caterpillar Control Program The City's Insect Control Branch will begin its forest tent caterpillar control program on Sunday, May 14, 2017 at 9:30 p.m., weather permitting. Tree spraying will be carried out in Insect Management Areas 43 and 51. Throughout...

Mowing, Dandelions and Boulevard Maintenance
The City of Winnipeg Public Service is currently transitioning from spring clean up to parks maintenance activities. The mowing of boulevards and parks has recently started, and I would like to share some information with you on the City's mowing, weed control and...

2017 Budget Reduced for Parks & Urban Forestry Department
In the City of Winnipeg's approved 2017 budget, there was no increase in funding for the City's Parks & Urban Forestry department. Rather, there was a decrease of approximately $200,000. I have been raising the issue of increasing funding for Parks & Urban...

“Fields for Fido” at King’s Park – Open House
Please join me at an Open House on April 4 to discuss upgrades to the “Fields for Fido” dog park located within King’s Park: DATE: Tuesday, April 4, 2017 TIME: 6:30 to 8:15 p.m. PLACE: Pembina Trail Library, 2474 Pembina Highway After a series of community meetings...

Upgrades to Grandmont & Ducharme Parks – Open House
When I was knocking on doors during the 2014 election campaign in the areas of Grandmont and Ducharme, many people said they’d like to see a variety of park upgrades occur. Grandmont Park is a beautiful spot with a small forest, lake and play structures that connect...

2017 Removal & Replacement of Diseased Schubert Chokecherry Trees
NOVEMBER 2017 UPDATE: The Urban Forestry Branch has had to allocate the majority of its in-house resources towards the management of Dutch Elm Disease and safety related tree matters, which unfortunately has had an effect on the Schubert removal/replacement program...

YOUR Feedback – Review of Winnipeg’s Athletic Fields
The City is currently reviewing how athletic fields are allocated and maintained and is looking for Winnipeggers’ feedback. The aim is to ensure City athletic fields are well maintained, fairly shared and used to the fullest extent possible and public input is an...

La Salle River Greenway
Below is a great image that shows the City-owned land along the La Salle River. This is designated park space and at some point will hopefully become a long linear connected park with pathways leading to La Barrière Park. Twitter: ...

Setting & Delivering on Expectations
The City's Parks department has been reorganizing roles, responsibilities and communication protocol with its staff over the past 5 months. During this process, three key projects in the South Winnipeg-St. Norbert Ward have been negatively impacted. The unfortunate...

King’s Park Fountain Put on Hold
As many residents in the South Winnipeg-St. Norbert ward know, I conducted a series of open houses in 2015 to gather feedback on what the community would like to see in the way of upgrades to King’s Park. At that time, the City Parks department engaged a consultant to...

A Gardener’s Delicacy in St. Norbert
The beautiful (and educational!) containers located on the centre medians in front of St. Norbert Farmers’ Market were enjoyed by both residents and visitors alike this year. My thanks to Colleen Zacharias for her informative article on these stunning floral...

Opening of Henteleff Park Interpretive Centre
Located along the banks of the Red River and Normand Creek in south St. Vital, Henteleff Park continues to pay tribute to the area’s rich history with the official opening of its new Interpretive Centre on Saturday, August 27, 2016 at 1:00 pm. Please join me at this...

Progress on Improvements to Parks & Greenspace
Winnipeg’s parks and greenspaces are an essential component of the urban fabric that encourages and promotes healthy lifestyles, cleaner environments, civic pride and urban beautification. Parks improve our physical and psychological health, strengthen our communities...

Support for New Pedestrian Lighting, Banners and Flowers
I’m pleased to be supporting the St. Norbert Business Improvement Zone with Community Incentive Grant funding to continue upgrading ‘Main Street St. Norbert’. Currently, Pembina Highway in St. Norbert is experiencing major water main construction, but as soon as...

Maintenance of Retention Ponds
Each summer, my office receives many enquiries from residents with questions about the growth of aquatic vegetation and algae on retention ponds in their neighbourhood. Stormwater retention ponds are used to manage stormwater. A primary benefit is that they can...

New Park Commemorates St. Norbert’s Métis History
On June 14, 2016, I was very pleased to be joined by historians and community members for the official naming and opening of Parc Charette Park. The park commemorates the homestead of the Baptiste Charette family. Monsieur Charette was a carpenter with the North...

Mosquito Fogging Begins Thursday, June 17
24 hour notice: Adult nuisance mosquito fogging to begin To date, the Insect Control Branch (ICB) has used a combination of larviciding and residual treatments to control mosquito populations. These measures alone are no longer sufficient to control the current adult...

Short-Term Solution: Greenspace Maintenance in Bridgwater Forest
At present, two developers (Manitoba Housing and Ladco Company Limited) and the City of Winnipeg are responsible for the maintenance of parks and open spaces in the communities of Waverly West. The developers take care of the parks and open spaces for a...

Henteleff Park – Annual Spring Tree Planting
Our annual tree planting event will be held the second weekend of June. Bring your shovels, gloves, smiles, friends and family and help plant some trees and shrubs! Refreshments and snacks served. DATE: Saturday, June 11, 2016 TIME: 10 a.m. to 12 noon PLACE: ...

Controlling Mosquitoes & Forest Tent Caterpillars
Winnipeg's Insect Management Areas (IMAs) Winnipeg's neighborhoods have been grouped into 51 Insect Management Areas. Just type in your address and find out what insect management area you reside in. Mosquito Control Program The Insect Control Branch continues an...

Ribbon Cutting of Parc Charette Park
Please join historians, community members and friends for the official naming and opening of Parc Charette Park on June 14. This scenic park sits on the banks of a curve in the Red River in St. Norbert, and provides a spectacular all-encompassing view of the Red...

Local Skateboarder to be Honoured in Expanded Park
I’m very pleased to support the expansion of the extremely popular skateboard park at 205 Killarney Avenue. Prior to being elected, I worked to help improve the site between Dalhousie and Acadia Schools, securing funding to upgrade the tot park with a new net play...

Eroding Winnipeg Riverbanks Need Help
As many residents in the South Winnipeg-St. Norbert ward know, a $1.5 million riverbank erosion protection project was initiated in King's Park in 2015. This year, the project will continue with reforestation and pathway restoration. More details are available at...

CELEBRATE International Trails Day on Saturday, June 4!
Please join myself and dignitaries for ice-cream and fun on International Trails Day! International Trails Day is an annual celebration of trails to promote trail development, the use of trails and the healthy lifestyle they encourage. It is celebrated each year on...

Deficit in Greenspace Maintenance is the “Canary in the Coal Mine”
In my opinion, the maintenance issues in Waverley West are the ‘canary in the coal mine’ for what is to come with respect to maintenance of greenspace in ALL new developments, including communities like Amber Trails and Sage Creek. The BIG PICTURE is that the City...

Mowing, Dandelions and Public Green Space
In mid-May this year, the City of Winnipeg Public Service transitioned from their city-wide spring clean up to parks maintenance activities. Sometimes the transition is smooth, and sometimes, depending on weather conditions, there's a few challenges. This year, we...

Director of Urban Studies Weighs in on Greenspace Maintenance in New Developments
Thank you to CBC Information Radio-Manitoba for providing informative, in-depth coverage on this evolving issue. On May 19, Dr. Jino Distasio of the University of Winnipeg (Associate Vice-President, Research and Innovation & Director, Institute of Urban...

Parks & Greenspace in Bridgwater Forest
Interested in learning more about the maintenance of parks and greenspace in Bridgwater Forest?! Mark your calendar to attend this information evening: TIME: 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 19 PLACE: Waverley Heights Community Centre, 1885 Chancellor Drive NOTE: ...

Dalhousie Ready to Play!
Congrats to the dedicated Parent Advisory Council at Dalhousie School! I know how very hard you worked to raise funds for this project – and am very pleased to have been a part of helping you make it happen – though just a tiny part! Outstanding work! Dalhousie...

Kirkbridge Park Investments and Baseball Fencing
I’d like to thank Marla, Secretary of the Richmond West Neighbourhood Association (RWNA), for providing the very accurate notes (shown below) from the meeting which I hosted on April 26, 2016. I would like to elaborate on a few additional points: 2016 PARK...

King’s Park 2016 Review and Reinvestment Strategy
In 2015, I conducted a series of open houses in May, June and October to gather feedback on what the community would like to see in the way of upgrades to King’s Park. The City Parks department engaged a consultant to work through the feedback that was provided, and...

Protecting Winnipeg’s Ash Trees
The City of Winnipeg’s Urban Forestry Branch is currently conducting an inventory of Ash trees on private property to augment the City’s public tree inventory and to continue its preparation for the arrival of the Emerald Ash Borer beetle. The Emerald Ash Borer is a...

Upgrades to King’s Park and Kirkbridge Park
I'm very pleased with the enhancements taking place in our community parks in the South Winnipeg-St. Norbert ward. These important greenspaces are very popular in our communities! My thanks to Richard Kamchen for covering this story! King’s Park waterfall is...

2016 Removal & Replacement of Schubert Chokecherry Trees
Winnipeg has about 7,000 Schubert chokecherry trees in City parks and on City boulevards. Unfortunately, many of them are infected with black knot, a fungal disease affecting species of cherry and plum trees. This disease is distributed across North America and is...

Dogs, Parks, and the Responsible Pet Ownership By-Law
Winnipeggers love their dogs! At present, there are over 112,000 licensed dogs in our City! Information on the locations and regulations at off-leash parks is available on the City's website. The City's Animal Services Agency provides animal control measures under...

Kirkbridge Park Improvements
I’m very pleased to announce funding for upgrades in Kirkbridge Park and a decision on the baseball diamond fencing. The park upgrades and fencing discussion have been a year in the making, thus a rather lengthy update on this page. I am also available to discuss...

Spring Clean-ups & Sustainability – 2016 Earth Day
Celebrated each year on April 22, Earth Day is the largest environmental event in the world! It’s a great time to take a look at what’s happening from a sustainability perspective close to home! South Winnipeg-St. Norbert Ward In our community, there are a...

École St. Norbert Immersion – Naturalization Project
At the April 4th meeting of the Riel Community Committee, I was very pleased to support an important project for the enhancement of the École St. Norbert Immersion yard. My thanks to The Sou'Wester for their coverage of this story, and also to St. Norbert Immersion...

Ile de Cercle Island Park – Upgrading
At the April 4th meeting of the Riel Community Committee, I was very pleased to support an important project for the redevelopment of the Ile de Cercle Island Park in St. Norbert. My thanks to The Sou'Wester for their coverage of this story, and also to Group 'Action...

2016 Approved Budget Impact – Parks in South Winnipeg-St. Norbert
The list of parks initiatives is funded through City of Winnipeg budget items and also through Parks funding directly allocated to Ward Councillors: $500,000 La Barriere Park washroom upgrade Details of the much needed washroom upgrade will be announced soon! The City...

Dakota Community Centre Annual General Meeting -AND- Dakota Park Consultation
Two meetings in one!! On Thursday, April 21, the Dakota Community Centre will host their Annual General Meeting at 7 p.m. Immediately after the AGM, at approx. 7:45 p.m., Councillor Brian Mayes (St. Vital Ward) and I will host a Community Consultation regarding...

Spring into Action at Your Local Community Centre
The South Winnipeg-St. Norbert Ward has three very active community centres which have just released their spring, 2016 newsletters! These informative newsletters contain updates on community centre events, expansions, proposed expansions, spring registrations,...

All-Girls Winter Classic First of Its Kind
The South Winnipeg Community Centre is set to drop the puck for Winnipeg’s first all-female outdoor hockey tournament. The Winnipeg Storm Winter Classic runs Jan. 27 to 31 at the Waverley site of the community centre at 1885 Chancellor Drive. More than 20 female...

The Hazards of Skating on Urban Storm Water Ponds
There are many water retention ponds located throughout South Winnipeg, and sometimes, local folks clear them in winter for use as skating rinks. However, this is NOT safe! The City of Winnipeg cautions residents NOT to use retention ponds for skating. During winter,...

King’s Park Erosion Protection: Project Continues in 2016
The City of Winnipeg is currently undertaking Phase II of an erosion protection project in King’s Park. This work will occur from January to March, 2016, with planting and re-vegetation work to be completed by mid-July, 2016. During this time, there will be a number...

‘It will take us right off the map’: Concerns over impact of proposed St. Norbert bypass
A Winnipeg woman is concerned a planned bypass will run over her business. Darlene Dolinski has operated a horse farm in rural St. Norbert for 20 years. She worries her business and way of life is in jeopardy because of the $400 million highway project. "It will take...

Kirkbridge Park & Richmond West Neighbourhoods Association
I'm very pleased to be a part of the resurrection of the Richmond West Neighbourhoods Association! The RWNA was very active a few years back in the improvement of Kirkbridge Park, and we are currently working on a number of new initiatives, challenges and...

NEXT STEPS: King’s Park Upgrades
I’ve been gathering some great feedback from community members with respect to King’s Park (May 5 and June 17, 2015: SEE HERE) Because King's Park is defined as a regional park (one that serves a great number of people), it is important we reach out to residents so...

Official Naming of Parc Charette Park
After much consultation with St. Norbert community residents, I’m very pleased to bring forward a motion for the official naming of a new park in the community of St. Norbert. Parc Charette Park sits on the banks of a curve in the Red River in St. Norbert. The park is...

École St. Norbert Gets Planting – Backyard Project Close to Completion
As Councillor of the South Winnipeg-St. Norbert Ward, I am very pleased to have worked with École St. Norbert Immersion and community residents in the upgrading of this key recreational and play area. Besides enhancing the habitat along the La Salle...

NEXT STEPS: La Barrière Park
BACKGROUND On September 24, 2015, Councillor Mayes (St. Vital Ward) and I held an open house to gather input and ideas from the community on how to improve La Barrière Park. With the growth of Waverley West, La Barrière Park has the potential to become a more heavily...

Learn about the Dakota Community Centre’s Expansion
The community is invited to attend a public information session to view the project plans for the new multi-use fieldhouse at the Dakota Community Centre. Thursday, October 15, 2015 - 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Jonathan Toews Sportsplex Gymnasium 1188 Dakota Street The...

Curbside Leaf and Yard Waste Collection Program
The City of Winnipeg is encouraging Winnipeggers to give fall leaf and yard waste a royal sendoff. Help prepare for winter by raking and collecting leaves from your yard, adjacent boulevards and roadways. Then take advantage of the City’s curbside leaf and yard waste...

La Barrière Park – Public Consultation on Improvements
Please join me and Councillor Mayes (St. Vital Ward) for a community discussion on Thursday, September 24 regarding improvements to La Barrière Park. Located just west of the community of St. Norbert, at 4403 Waverley Street, this scenic spot is a great place for...

October 7 Open House – Next Steps on King’s Park Upgrades
On May 5 and June 17, 2015, I hosted consultations with the community to gather your ideas on improving King's Park. We’ve compiled the feedback from those meetings, and included additional comments which our office has received through residents' emails and phone...

King’s Park Off-Leash Dog Area
If the water in your local off-leash park pond looks iffy, the city is putting the onus on you to keep your dog safe. Winnipeg conducts random water quality testing of municipal retention ponds, but doesn’t test marshy ponds such as the one at King’s Park, says...

Opening of Splash Pad; Future Recreation Campus in SW Winnipeg
While kids have been cooling off this summer at the new splash pad at Waverley Heights Community Centre, the heat is on for increased recreation opportunities in the growing neighbourhood. St. Norbert MLA Dave Gaudreau, Coun. Janice Lukes (South Winnipeg-St. Norbert),...

Bohémier House Gets a New Lease on Life
A long-standing heritage home and important piece of St. Norbert history has been revived. The Bohémier House in the St. Norbert Provincial Heritage Park reopened to the public for the first time in six years on July 11. The date also marked the 30th anniversary of...

Paddington Road Park Named In Honour of Malala Yousafzai
A park in one of Winnipeg's youngest neighbourhoods will be named after the world's youngest Nobel Prize winner, Malala Yousafzai. "This is good news," said Dost Mughal, vice-president of the Pakistan Canada Business Association of Manitoba. The three-acre park in...

Malala’s Thank You Video to City of Winnipeg Councillors
On Thursday, July 23, 2015, I had the honour of celebrating the naming of Malala Park with the Pakistani community at an event in the beautiful Pakistan Cultural Centre in Winnipeg. Malala Park is located in the South Winnipeg–St. Norbert at the south end of...

Improvements to King’s and Kirkbridge parks being considered
Upgrades, big and small, are being considered for King’s and Kirkbridge parks. Five community consultations have been held to determine local priorities. "I really wanted to hear what people were looking for and what they wanted," says acting mayor Janice Lukes,...

Gardening Opportunities in King’s Park
Do you like gardening and have a few hours to spare? Pembina Active Living (55+) is currently seeking volunteers to assist with maintaining the waterfall and beautiful Hosta gardens at King's Park. Pembina Active Living (55+) is a non-profit, seniors serving...

Mosquito Fogging Program Begins June 11
Fogging will begin on Thursday, June 11, 2015, between 9:30 p.m. and 6:30 a.m. To date, the Insect Control Branch (ICB) has used a combination of larviciding and residual treatments to control mosquito populations. These measures alone are no longer sufficient to...

Kirkbridge Park Upgrades – June 10 Community Meeting
We have an opportunity to complete some upgrades to Kirkbridge Park, and I would like to hear YOUR thoughts! Would you like to see additional benches installed? More trees? Washroom facilities? Or something else? Our parks are a vital component of our community,...

King’s Park Upgrades – June 17 Community Meeting
King’s Park is a regional park in South Winnipeg. As a regional park, it serves a greater area than a neighbourhood park. Like many other regional parks (St. Vital Park and Crescent Drive Park), funding is becoming available for upgrades. Last winter, the City...

Living with Bugs in the City
The City of Winnipeg has a website page with very current and updated information on BUGS and Insect Control activities. Use the left hand navigation menu, as it contains very informative information which is often updated weekly. With regard to mosquito control, it...

Schubert Chokecherry Removal and Replacement in 2015
On May 25, 2015, I held a community town hall in partnership with Councillor Mayes (St. Vital ward) to discuss Black Knot Fungus which is affecting many south Winnipeg trees. We had the City Forester attend and provide a presentation on Winnipeg’s urban forest, as...

Cuts to city’s budget limits ability to battle tree diseases
Too many pests and diseases, and too little cash. Cuts to the city’s budget are making it hard to battle nature’s attacks on Winnipeg’s green canopy, says a pair of councillors. Black knot and Dutch elm disease are two of the biggest threats. This year, the city has...

Councillors Sound Battle Cry Against Dreaded Black Knot
Two city councillors are trying to engage the public in the fight against a deadly fungus that disfigures and eventually kills trees. St. Vital Councillor Brian Mayes and St. Norbert Councillor Janice Lukes held a townhall meeting Monday evening to discuss the...

Trees and Black Knot Fungus – Town Hall
Councillors Brian Mayes and Janice Lukes will be hosting a Town Hall on Monday, May 25, 2015 regarding Black Knot, a fungal disease which affects many species of trees. Everyone is welcome to attend this open house and learn about the City of Winnipeg's action plan on...

Improving Transportation & Parks in South Winnipeg–St. Norbert Ward
Mark Tuesday, May 5 on your calendar for a very important community event! This is your opportunity to talk to the experts who plan your streets and parks, as well as share your thoughts and ideas on how we can improve our community! Improving Transportation &...

Dalhousie School Playground Renewal Underway
I am very pleased to be working with an ambitious group of parents and the Dalhousie School team towards renewing the playground for youth in our community. The Dalhousie playground connects to Dalhousie Forest and park where the City of Winnipeg has supported recent...

Councillors Lukes and Mayes Announce $600,000 Grant to Dakota Collegiate Alumni Field Project
Many of my constituents in the South Winnipeg-St Norbert Ward either work at or have attended Dakota Collegiate. I’m proud to be working together with Councillor Brian Mayes to help improve Dakota Collegiate AND the community’s athletic field! On April 10, 2015 at...

Changes coming to King’s Park
Changes Coming to King's Park: Just over three months on the job and I am finding it to be a very challenging and rewarding experience. The St. Norbert ward is home to 53,444 residents living in 14 unique communities. READ MORE: The Sou'Wester - February...

Looking at Green Space Options in River Park South
Looking at Green Space Options in River Park South: It may be the end of the road, but two local councillors are hoping it could be the beginning of something. Coun. Brian Mayes (St. Vital) and Coun. Janice Lukes (St. Norbert) have been speaking to The Lance about...