The City of Brandon is looking to raise service fees by 3 to 7-percent next year including Brandon Transit rates. Adult fares are expected to increase by $2.00 – and $1.50 for seniors and youth. The City says costs have been increasing for everything from policing and firefighting to airport maintenance and golf green fees, which are set to jump by 8-percent.
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Brandon University is conducting a safety audit of its campus after a female student was attacked and robbed last month. It’ll review crosswalks, security and possibly adding more cameras. BU has reportedly requested provincial funding for the audit, and to make changes around campus.
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The number of murders in rural and remote areas of Manitoba have nearly doubled. There have been 55 homicides so far this year – up from 30 in 2023. RCMP say there could be a number of reasons for the increase including gang activity, and high rates of unemployment contributing to a spike in drug abuse and alcohol consumption.
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The Manitoba government is making a move to reduce the number of for-profit nursing agencies in the province. They’ve issued a request for proposals that would allow approved agencies to continue operating, but with more
government oversight. They say for-profit companies perpetuated a cycle of burnout and mandatory overtime that hurt patients and exhausted nurses.
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New counter-proposals have been sent to the government mediator by the union for striking Canada Post workers. One of the key issues is how to staff expanded weekend delivery, which Canada Post says is needed to boost revenue. Federal mediation was put on pause last week as the two sides appeared too far apart to reach an agreement.
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Air Canada plans to ban carry-on bags and impose a seat selection fee for its lowest-fare customers in the new year. Starting January 3rd, low-fare fliers will have to check duffel bags, rolling suitcases and large backpacks – while purses, laptop bags, strollers, and mobility aids will still be free. Air Canada took in nearly $2 billion in additional fees in 2022.
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A Canadian family of four can expect to spend up to $800 more on food in 2025 than they did this year. A report says food prices are likely to rise between 3 and 5-percent in 2025.
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The CPKC Holiday Train makes a stop in Brandon tonight at 7:00. It’ll pull up along Rosser Avenue East and will feature on-board performers Tyler Shaw and Shawnee Kish. You’re encouraged to make a monetary or
non-perishable food donation to our local food banks.
