ESTEVAN — City council approved an event permit for the Estevan Strippers Hockey Club’s 41st annual Molson Spring Bust Hockey Tournament, scheduled for April 2-6, during their latest regular meeting on March 10. Mayor Tony Sernick left the room during decision making due to conflict of interest, as he is a member of the club.
The permit allows the use of the Power Dodge Curling Centre as a beer garden, with liquor sales from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily, except on April 6, when sales will end at 10 p.m.
The Strippers Hockey Club also requested that the rental fees for the Power Dodge Curling Centre be waived. Council approved the request, noting the club’s history of contributing funds back into the community, with all council members but one in favour, and Coun. Kirsten Walliser opposed. With 40 teams expected to join the event, the club anticipates over $17,000 in costs for the tournament and highlighted the event’s economic benefits for local businesses.
Fire services to add full-time position
Council approved the addition of a full-time fire services staff member to address a backlog of fire inspections. The position will also support other duties within the department. The budget impact for the current year is estimated at $50,000, increasing to $100,000 annually moving forward.
Water Services report highlights water breaks
The city treated 107.3 million litres of water in February and distributed 104.1 million litres.
There were no plant upsets and all regulated parameters for drinking water were met.
The winter alum test went well, and the water services will be tendering out their winter alum next year to try and get a more competitive price, said Matt Angell, water and wastewater services manager in his report
Five water main breaks occurred, with significant losses from February 21-25, amounting to 12,458 cubic meters of water. The estimated financial loss from the leaks totalled $19,808.
Hudson Bay Route membership renewed
Council renewed its membership with the Hudson Bay Route Association for 2025. Mayor Tony Sernick noted that the Manitoba government recently allocated $80 million for the Port of Churchill, which could enhance the viability of the route. Counc. Tom Mauss also noted that a Saskatchewan-based fertilizer company has also begun using the corridor, adding to its relevance.
Building permit issued
A single miscellaneous building permit was issued in February, valued at $300,000. Council approved the report without discussion. A total of two permits were issued in 2025 for $310,000.
Cerebral Palsy Awareness proclamation approved
Council approved a request from Miccah Walliser to recognize National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day on March 25. The city will illuminate the water tower in green for the month of March. A formal proclamation will be read at the March 24 council meeting.
Councillors raise community concerns
During the inquiries section, Coun. Matthew Dubowski noted overgrown trees obstructing pedestrian pathways along King Street. The city confirmed the parks department will address the issue during tree-trimming season.
Another inquiry from Coun. Brian Johnson focused on pothole repairs, with city manager Jeff Ward confirming that work will begin a bit later, once the asphalt plant resumes operations. Ward also noted that the city is currently developing a list of areas that need attention and welcomes input from the community.
Coun. Walliser reminded that the next Coffee with Council is slated for March 21 at the Southeast TechHub and will focus on the Hillside pool upgrades project.
Mauss also inquired about the procurement process for the digital sign by the leisure centre, noting that the preference would be to have it done locally versus acquiring it from the U.S. Ward said the sign will be tendered locally, however no further procurement details were immediately available.
