Province Eyes Billion‑Dollar Fines for Tech Giants
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew says major tech companies that fail to comply with the province’s planned ban on social media and AI use for kids under 16 could face fines in the billions. Details are still being developed, but Kinew says the first phase may roll out in schools while legislation is drafted.
Teen Lured and Assaulted at Brandon Mall
Brandon Police are investigating after a 15‑year‑old girl was lured to a local mall Monday and assaulted by a group of teens who also stole her shoes before fleeing. Two girls were arrested and later released to a parent. The victim suffered non‑life‑threatening injuries.
Property Crime Up 13% in Brandon
New quarterly data from the Brandon Police Service shows Crimes Against Property have risen from 520 to 587 incidents year‑to‑date — a 13% increase over the same period last year. The category includes break‑ins, thefts, mischief, and related offences.
Multi‑Unit Housing Applications Rising, But Labour Shortages Persist
City planners say applications for multi‑unit housing projects are climbing, but ongoing labour shortages continue to slow construction. Developers warn delays could push project costs higher heading into 2027.
Warm Front Brings Ideal Weather for Road Work
A mid‑week warm front will bring double‑digit highs and several dry days — perfect timing for early‑season road patching and street sweeping across Brandon. Crews cleared several priority routes Monday and Tuesday, with more work planned today on Maryland, Lyndale, Patricia, and Van Horne East.
Seasonal Water Main Flushing Begins
Brandon’s annual water main flushing program starts today in the Rosser‑to‑Victoria zone west of 34th Street. Residents are asked to watch for posted signs as crews move through neighbourhoods over the coming months.
Audiology Clinic Moves to Brandon Regional Health Centre
After more than 25 years at the Town Centre, Prairie Mountain Health has relocated Brandon’s audiology clinic to the Brandon Regional Health Centre, where it is now accepting new patients. The clinic handles everything from diagnosing hearing loss to fitting hearing aids.
Waves of Hope Launches $150K Fundraiser
Brandon’s Waves of Hope kicked off a $150,000 fundraising campaign with a survivor‑led conference at Brandon University. A $25,000 lead gift will support local research focused on earlier cancer detection and improved treatments.
Organics Pickup Now City‑Wide
Brandon’s green‑cart Organics Pickup program is now operating city‑wide. Residents can set their green cart out alongside garbage and recycling on their regular pickup day. More details — including how to get a cart and what materials are accepted — are available on the city’s website.
Call for 2026 Downtown Art Projects
Brandon and the Downtown BIZ are inviting local creators to help transform the city’s core with new outdoor art installations in 2026. Applications for murals, installations, and other public art projects are open until May 31.
Bank of Canada Rate Decision Expected Today
The Bank of Canada will release its latest interest rate decision today, with most economists expecting it to hold at 2.25%. The bank will also publish updated economic projections in its quarterly report.
Telecom Complaints Surge 61%
Canada’s telecom watchdog logged more than 19,000 complaints about phone, internet, and TV services over six months — a 61% jump from the previous year. More than half involved wireless service, with billing issues remaining the top concern.
