South Mountain
Press
SNOW BIRDS
Friday, MARCH 28, 2025 Vo lum e 17 N um b e r27
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CIN DY M U R R AY / F O R SO U T H M O U N T AIN PR E SS There is not a better sign that spring is here than the return of the snow birds... both the kind that can fly and those who can’t. Now that the calendar has flipped and the geese have returned, signs of spring are everywhere. This pair of geese was spotted south of Erickson recently, part of a much larger flock enjoying the warmth of the sunshine. Many neighbours and friends have also returned from the sunny south, ready for the march towards summer.
P rovincia l governm ent unveils Budget 2 0 2 5 M a n itoba fa ces a p rop osed deficitof $1.9 billion , w ith ca p ita l sp en din g p rojected a ta record $3.7 billion RAC HEAL FLIN TO FT So uth M o unta in Pre ss
As the dust settles from the unveiling of the Manitoba government’s Budget 2025, discussions centre on a staggering proposed deficit that could skyrocket from the current $794 million to almost double that figure, reaching $1.9 billion if tariff threats
materialize. However, Finance Minister Adrien Sala described this budget as a significant investment in the province’s future, with capital spending projected at a record $3.7 billion. “This budget comes at a critical time in Manitoba’s history, and it rises to the occasion with a historic investment in capital
projects,” said Sala. He emphasized the need for action amid economic challenges, stating, “We didn’t start this trade war, but we are not backing down. We are Building One Manitoba.” Funding allocated within Budget 2025 aims to stimulate the economy, create nearly 18,000 jobs, and improve healthcare services across the province.
Noteworthy investments include upgrades to Manitoba Hydro infrastructure, and the initiation of various infrastructure projects tied to healthcare and education. However, despite ambitious plans, the budget reveals a broader provincial focus that may leave some regions feeling overlooked. While it promises to construct 11 new schools over the
next three years, none of these schools are slated for areas outside major urban centres, raising concerns about equitable resource distribution. Furthermore, countless infrastructure projects are set to begin, with very few projected for southwestern Manitoba.
SEE BU DGE T , PAGE 2
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