In a surprising turn of events, the Manitoba Government has pulled the plug on two brand-new bills aimed at addressing the hotly debated Winnipeg Metropolitan Region (WMR) plan. Just weeks ago, the government introduced Bill 40—the City of Winnipeg Charter Amendment and Planning Amendment Act—and Bill 42—the Planning Amendment Act.
These bills, touted as solutions to address mounting concerns from the 18 municipalities within the WMR, were supposed to give these regions the ability to opt out of the controversial plan. But here’s the kicker: Manitoba Stronger Together has been sounding the alarm that this “solution” was unnecessary all along!
We’ve been pointing out for weeks that under the current Planning Act, the Minister already has the authority, under Section 8(2), to add or remove municipalities from the WMR.
There was no need for a “Freedom Bill” as Premier Wab Kinew had promised; the power was always there! Despite our clear message, the government pushed forward with these redundant bills—only to now quietly backtrack and cancel them.
Could it be that someone finally listened to us and realized the redundancy? Or is Premier Kinew retreating on his bold promises to Manitoba’s municipalities?
With 12 out of the 18 municipalities voicing serious concerns about the WMR plan and residents now actively voicing their opposition, this sudden shift raises more questions than it answers. What’s really going on behind the scenes?
Stay tuned, because Manitoba Stronger Together will continue to dig for answers and keep the pressure on for transparency.
Come an find out about the WMR Plan 20-50 for your self, buy attending one of our informational session: More to come, so stay tuned.
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