CELEBRATING DEDICATION
Submitted photos
RM of Ste. Anne 2025 Council Meeting Dates
January 15, 9:00 am
January 29, 6:00 pm
February 12, 9:00 am
February 26, 6:00 pm
March 12, 9:00 am March 26, 6:00 pm
LUD of Richer Meeting Dates
February 5, 7:00 pm March 5, 7:00 pm
At our recent annual banquet, the fire department had the distinct honor of recognizing three of our dedicated members for their years of selfless service and unwavering commitment to the safety of our community
5-Year Service Awards
Two firefighters were awarded the 5-Year Service Award, marking half a decade of dedication.
Giroux Firefighter Kyle Waczko - his passion for serving the community and supporting his fellow firefighters has been a cornerstone of his service.
Richer Firefighter Brennan McDougall - has shown dedication and a strong commitment to the department’s mission. His efforts during an emergency have had a meaningful impact and reflect our core values.
15-Year Service Award
This year, a 15-Year Service Award was presented to Richer Firefighter Ed Belisle, a seasoned member of the department whose career has been marked by extraordinary dedication. Over the years, his leadership and experience have served as a guiding
force for the team.
These awards are a testament to the dedication and hard work of these individuals, who, day after day, answer the call to protect and serve our community.
We thank them for their years of service, their dedication, and their sacrifice in the name of public service. We look forward to many more milestones together as a team.
Let’s express our gratitude and congratulate these outstanding firefighters on their well-deserved recognition!
La municipalité de Ste. Anne est maintenant officiellement et fièrement bilingue. Pour les informations et les services en français, vous avez tout simplement besoin de nous les demander. Nous sommes en période de transition, alors nous apprécions votre patience et vos demandes.
Meetings of the RM of Ste. Anne and Local Urban District of Richer are open to the public. Council meetings are held in the Council Chambers of the RM Office at 395 Traverse Road and continue to be recorded and livestreamed via www.rmofsteanne.com. LUD of Richer Committee Meetings are now held at the Richer Young at Hearts Club at 22 Dawson Rd.
Committee of the Whole *
January 21, 9:00 am
February 18, 9:00 am March 18, 9:00 am *may be subject to change, check website for updates
LUD of Richer Garbage Pickup Day - Fridays
Electronic Recycle Day First Tuesday of each month
Documents and information may be provided in alternate formats upon request.
Left to right – Firefighter Ed Belisle, Richer Fire Chief Chris Wilkins, and Firefighter Brennan McDougall.
Left to right – Giroux Fire Crew Chief Lynn Plett, and Firefighter Kyle Waczko
2024 YEAR IN REVIEW FROM OUR PUBLIC WORKS TEAM: EXCITING PROJECTS
AND NEW ADDITIONS IN THE RM!
What a year it’s been! We’ve been busy completing major road improvements, enhancing our parks and community spaces, and adding some fantastic new equipment to better serve you.
Here’s a look back at the projects and new purchases that have helped shape our municipality in 2024.
Completed Projects: Making the Roads Safer and More Efficient
Our roads have seen some major upgrades! Several culverts were replaced, including those on municipal roads 31E and 37E, which were both short and unsafe. Additionally, a troublesome culvert was removed on Road 45E, addressing a long-standing issue.
We also made significant improvements by repairing frost heaves from TC Energy pipeline crossings, funded by TC Energy, and by installing rock weirs along Road 38N to help with drainage in the area.
We didn’t stop there—new field crossings were added along Road 37N, and bridges at Road 42N and Owens Road were thoroughly inspected for safety. Our work on Road 37N also involved reshaping and graveling a section for better driving conditions. In the face of major rain events, we took quick
action to repair 32 washouts and 2 road-side slides, ensuring the roads remain safe for everyone.
Brightening Up Our Community
In 2024, we made significant strides in lighting up our public spaces. Thanks to an RCMP proceeds of crime grant, 38 solar-powered lights were installed at Giroux Park, Thurston Park, and along the pathway by the school in Richer. These lights help make our community safer and more welcoming after dark.
We also partnered with the Eco Fit Green Lighting Program to install energy-efficient lighting at the RM Office, Richer Firehall, and our old Public Works shop—helping us reduce our environmental footprint while keeping things bright and functional.
Parks, Pathways, and More
We’ve been busy improving access and amenities in our parks and public spaces.
A new pathway was created from
encourage cycling.
The Giroux rink also got a facelift with a repaired puck board, and Public Works staff have now taken over the ice maintenance for the 2024-25 winter season.
LUD Improvements: Upgrades for a Growing Community
In the LUD, we focused on improving both safety and aesthetics. The sharp “S” curve on Southwest Dr. was reshaped to allow easier access for semi-trucks making local deliveries, and new sidewalks were completed along Dawson Road and PR 302.
We also helped to replace the Young at Hearts driveway culvert leading to the community mailboxes and did some general landscaping to enhance the area.
For the first time, we also held a Wood Chipping event to help residents in the LUD get rid of some deadfall and unwanted branches. We are hoping to do this again in 2025.
Equipment and
operations running smoothly. This year, we purchased an offset ditch mower to help with slope mowing, a new 2022 F350 Diesel truck for road work, and a grapple bucket for our skid steer to improve handling of larger debris.
To help with those tough winter months, a snow plow was added to our 2019 F350 to ensure we can keep roads open even during windy snow events.
At the RM Shop, thanks to a grant received from the Province of Manitoba to cover a portion of the cost, we installed a backup generator to ensure we have reliable power during emergencies.
Looking Ahead: More to Come in 2025
As we wrap up 2024, we’re already looking ahead to more exciting projects and improvements in the new year.
Stay tuned for updates as we continue to make our municipality an even better place to live, work, and play!
Thank you for your continued support and collaboration. Here’s to another year of progress!
regards,
Warm
The RM of Ste. Anne Public Works Team
The LUD of Richer pathway is now lit up thanks to the RCMP Proceeds of Crime Grant.
SNOW MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
FOR PRIVATE PROPERTY OWNERS
MUNICIPAL SNOW CLEARING PROCEDURES
Our graders take approximately two days to clear all roads within the RM of Ste. Anne. Please note that we only begin clearing once the snow event has ended and it is safe to start plowing.
**Please note that these procedures do not include highways**
Our process:
Grader 1:
• Starts by clearing Dawson Road and the LUD of Richer.
• Alternates between heading either north or south of Highway 1 to ensure fairness.
Grader 2:
• Starts by clearing Greenland Rd
• Alternates between starting in Greenland area and East side of RM area
While the graders are out, our public works team prioritizes:
• Clearing sidewalks, hard surfaces in Richer and the Richer Fire Hall
• Clearing pathways and park paths in the RM.
• Sanding major parking lots, recycling depots, the lagoon, and RM facilities, etc.
Once all the paths have been cleared and sanding has been done, we then work on clearing the Giroux Ice rink for our residents to use!
We appreciate your patience and understanding as this cycle is typically completed over two days.
PROVINCIAL SNOW CLEARING
Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure (MTI) clears snow from provincial highways based on priority levels:
• Level 1: Major routes plowed within 4 hours after a weather event ends.
• Level 2: Regional roads plowed within 8 hours, after major routes are cleared.
• Level 3: Gravel and service roads plowed within 48 hours, during working hours.
PROVINCIAL ROADS 207, 302, AND 311 ARE LEVEL 2 ROADS.
What’s your road’s priority level?
Check here for details: gov.mb.ca/mti/roadinfo/road_safety.html
This winter, MTI introduces Track My Plow, a new tool on the Manitoba 511 website and app. You can track snowplows in real-time, alongside road conditions and closures. Download the app here: manitoba511.ca/about/mobileapp
What counts as a weather event?
Plowing begins after precipitation stops and winds no longer cause visibility or drifting issues. Main routes are cleared first, followed by snow buildup removal.
Be prepared! Always check road conditions at manitoba511.ca before traveling. Adjust your driving to suit winter conditions.
Let’s stay safe on the roads this winter!
Winter is a beautiful season, but it comes with its share of challenges— especially when it comes to snow removal. To help keep your driveway clear while supporting public plowing efforts, here are some helpful tips:
1. Pile Snow with Traffic Flow
When clearing snow near a public road, always pile it in the same direction as traffic. This reduces the chances of snow being pushed back into your driveway by municipal plows.
2. Create a Snow Pocket
On the opposite side of your driveway, create a snow pocket. This will catch snow from provincial or municipal plows before it spills onto your driveway.
3. Avoid Pushing Snow Across the Road
Never push snow across the road—it can create hazards for other drivers and block drainage in ditches. For safety and operational reasons, the Municipality has enacted an Obstructions By-law prohibiting this. Property owners who push snow across roads may face fines.
4. Keep Snow on Your Property
Store snow on your property and as far away from the public road as possible. This will ensure you have enough space to store snow throughout the season.
5. Avoid Street Parking
Park off the streets to allow plows to clear roads completely. When plows can move faster and throw snow further from the road, snow removal becomes more effective. Also, keep items like garbage bins, mailboxes, and school bus shelters well away from the road to help with plowing operations.
By being mindful of your snow removal practices, you not only make things easier for public snow removal crews but also help reduce the need for costly municipal maintenance.
When snow can be spread more efficiently along roadsides, it increases storage capacity for the entire season. If excess snow accumulates, the operations team must remove and haul it to another location, which is both labor-intensive and expensive for taxpayers.
Thank you for your cooperation!
For more information see the Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation’s website: masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/program_farmland_school_tax_rebate.html
WINTER ACTIVITIES IN THE RM OF STE. ANNE:
ENJOY THE SEASON SAFELY AND RESPONSIBLY
As the snow falls across the RM of Ste. Anne, it’s the perfect time to explore how our Zoning By-law supports winter recreational activities while promoting safety and sustainability.
Whether you’re maintaining your property, setting up temporary structures, or enjoying outdoor activities, these guidelines will help you make the most of the season.
Safe Property Access
Maintaining clear access to properties is vital during the winter months. Section 6.10 of the RM of Ste. Anne Zoning By-law outlines the importance of safe and accessible driveways.
Here’s what you need to know:
• Driveways: Keep them passable for emergency vehicles.
• Accesses onto to Public Roads: Ensure they are well-maintained and meet municipal standards.
Snow and ice can make access challenging, so regular clearing is essential to keep everyone safe, but remember not to push snow across any public roadway as this creates hazards.
Temporary Winter Structures
Winter often calls for temporary solutions, and the Zoning By-law has clear rules for these uses:
• Portable Garages and Shelters: These structures must follow setback and location requirements to ensure safety and compliance.
• Outdoor Storage: Keep storage areas for tools or vehicles tidy and within the accessory use guidelines. If you’re setting up a temporary
structure, double-check the by-law or reach out to our Planning team for guidance.
Please note that all structures over 200 square feet (18.58 square meters) need a development permit, whether permanent or temporary. If the structure will be onsite for more than 12 months, then a building permit is also required. Municipal staff are happy to assist with any questions regarding our permit requirements, just reach out!
Protecting Sensitive Lands
Winter activities can have an impact on our environment, especially on lands near rivers, wetlands, or other sensitive areas. Section 6.30 of the Zoning By-law emphasizes the importance of protecting these zones.
Tips for protecting sensitive areas:
• Avoid piling snow in places where runoff might affect ecosystems when it melts.
• Plan winter activities to minimize disruption to environmentally sensitive areas.
Preserving these lands ensures their health and beauty for future generations.
Winter Recreation and Zoning
Rural life in the RM of Ste. Anne comes alive in winter with skating rinks, sledding, and snowmobiling.
The Zoning By-law supports these activities while maintaining community harmony:
• Outdoor Skating Rinks and Sledding Hills: These can be set up on private property (no permit required for personal use), but ensure they
comply with setback requirements and don’t disturb neighbors.
• Snowmobile Trails: Keep trails safe and away from residential zones while following noise and safety regulations.
When enjoying the outdoors, be aware of what lands are public, and which are private, to avoid unintentional trespassing.
Enjoy the outdoors while keeping the community’s needs in mind.
How to Stay Within the Rules
To make the most of winter activities, as well as all year long:
1. Be Informed: Review the Zoning By-law’s requirements for temporary and permanent uses and property upkeep. Contact us with any questions.
2. Get Necessary Permits: Apply
for permits before starting new developments or activities.
3. Protect the Environment: Be mindful of how your activities impact sensitive areas.
4. Be Mindful of the Community: Plan your activities to minimize the impact on surrounding properties and the greater community.
Contact Us for Help
For more information or assistance with zoning regulations, reach out to the RM of Ste. Anne: Development Officer: Development@rmofsteanne.com Planning Administrative Assistant: Planning@rmofsteanne.com
Let’s work together to make this winter safe, compliant, and full of fun for everyone in our community!
The Premier Tech Multiplex ice rink at the Dawson Trail Park is open to all
2025 Community
Clean Up & BBQ
Stay
RM OF STE ANNE MUNICIPAL OFFICE:
395 Traverse Road (Physical address)
Box 6, Grp 50, RR 1 (Mailing address), Ste. Anne, MB R5H 1R1
Telephone: (204) 422-5929 Fax: (204) 422-9723 general@rmofsteanne.com | www.rmofsteanne.com
Office Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Closed on Holidays
For specific inquiries, the following Administrative Staff may be contacted:
Chief Administrative Officer - Shelley Jensen cao@rmofsteanne.com
Legislative Officer - Nadine Vielfaure legislative@rmofsteanne.com
Operations Manager - Kevin Medeiros pw@rmofsteanne.com
Finance Officer - Tiana Bohemier finance@rmofsteanne.com
Finance Administrative Assistant - Ashley Poiron accounts@rmofsteanne.com
Development Officer - Hadiseh Bajelan development@rmofsteanne.com
Planning Administrative Assistant - Colette Martens planning@rmofsteanne.com
Administrative Assistant – Samantha Kornelson reception@rmofsteanne.com
RM OF STE. ANNE COUNCIL
Reeve: Richard Pelletier - 204-371-7756 reevepelletier@rmofsteanne.com
Councillors:
Ward 1 - Sarah Normandeau ward1sarah@outlook.com / 204-392-6900
Ward 2 - Kyle Waczko councillorwaczko@rmofsteanne.com / 204-510-4968
Ward 3 & LUD Council Rep – Patrick Stolwyk councillorstolwyk@rmofsteanne.com / 204-223-2570
Ward 4 - Brad Ingles ward4rmsteannebrad.i@gmail.com / 204-793-0671
Ward 5 - Robert Sarrasin robert.rm.steanne@gmail.com / 204-791-7735
Ward 6 - Randy Eros reros@mts.net / 204-371-2959
LUD COMMITTEE MEMBERS:
Chair John Lenton - 204-422-8496 / 204-371-1674 jlenton@rmofsteanne.com
Norm Bremaud - 204-371-9282 nbremaud@rmofsteanne.com
Jessica Ostrowski - 204-355-8245 jostrowski@rmofsteanne.com
RCMP: Steinbach Detachment - 204-326-4452
During an emergency, dial 911 / 204-326-1234
RAMS Animal Control Officer: 204-223-5521
RICHER FIRE DEPARTMENT:
For questions on burn bans or burn permits
Richer Fire Chief Chris Wilkins richerchief@rmofsteanne.com / 204-422-5966
HONORING THE PAST, WELCOMING THE FUTURE IN LEADERSHIP
Over the past 2 years, Mike McLennan served the RM of Ste. Anne as the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), carrying out the decisions of Council while managing the overall administration of the Municipality. In November 2024, Mike resigned to begin a new chapter in his career journey.
During his time with the Municipality, Mike helped us transition forward through several changes in the way we operate. He also successfully helped guide us as we strived to work better, and be better individually, and as a team, all in the name of public service.
Mike’s departure left us with some big shoes to fill, but on January 6, 2025, Council proudly welcomed Shelley Jensen to our administration team as the RM of Ste. Anne’s new Chief Administrative Officer.
Shelley comes to our organization with over 15 years in municipal government, which includes over 8 years as a CAO, 2 years as Secretary/Chief Administrative Officer for the Municipal Board, Land Value Appraisal Commission and the Disaster Assistance Appeal Board and over 2 years as a Municipal Services Officer for the Province of Manitoba.
With the support of Council, staff, and our community, we have great confidence that Shelley will help us carry out the Municipality’s vision of providing an environment for safe, affordable, diverse lifestyles, while ensuring sustainability for the future.
Welcome to the team, Shelley!
IMPORTANT COMMUNICATION: TAX SALE PROCESS
In November and December of 2024 Canada Post was on strike, and we were unable to send important communication regarding Tax Sale. The Tax Sale process began on January 1st, 2025, for all properties with outstanding taxes from 2023. If you think you may be one of these property owners, please contact our office at 204-422-5929 so we can let you know your current balance and discuss with you the significant additional financial impacts associated with any Tax Sale. The Tax Sale auction has been booked for November 5th, 2025, at 14:00 in the Municipal Council Chambers at 395 Traverse Road.
SUBMIT YOUR GRANT APPLICATIONS
BY FEBRUARY 28, 2025
Every year, the RM of Ste. Anne budgets for grants to be given to non-profit organizations serving our community. Non-Profit Organizations looking for financial support need to fill out and submit the application form by February 28, 2025, to be considered for the spring intake.
Note that the Fall intake deadline will be announced later in the year, and those requests will be subject to whatever funds remain available at the time.
Please visit www.rmofsteanne.com (look for the By-laws and Policies page under the Resources tab) to view our Grants Policy #08-ADMIN.
Shelley Jensen, RM of Ste. Anne Chief Administrative Officer