The Manitoba government announced today they were spending an additional $500,000 to “strengthen community safety in Brandon and Portage la Prairie as part of its broader public safety strategy”.
“This funding is about keeping people safe and supporting the organizations that do essential work in our communities,” said Justice Minister Matt Wiebe. “By making these investments, we’re helping local partners strengthen safety while continuing the important work of preventing crime and addressing its root causes.”
In a release, the province announced the City of Brandon will receive $300,000 and the City of Portage la Prairie will receive $200,000 to help secure municipal facilities and support community safety initiatives. The money will go toward security upgrades like cameras, security systems and new lighting, as well as repairs to broken windows, doors or locks, damage from vandalism and graffiti removal.
“Brandon and Portage la Prairie are growing communities, and investments like these make a real difference on the ground,” said Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Glenn Simard. “This funding will help ensure residents feel safe and supported, and that community organizations and the cities have the resources they need to continue serving people effectively.”
The province also said the money can be used for “community partnerships to enhance security with a focus on de-escalation and well-being”.
“We appreciate the Manitoba government’s $300,000 investment in community safety here in Brandon,” said Mayor Jeff Fawcett, City of Brandon. “This funding will go a long way in supporting the work already underway, and we’re hopeful it will help us strengthen our downtown this summer through a range of projects focused on safety and community well‑being.”
