The City of Selkirk is expressing its support for Bill 42, The Planning Amendment Act, introduced on November 4, 2024. This important piece of legislation grants municipalities the ability to opt in or out of the Capital Planning Region (CPR), directly addressing long-standing concerns voiced by Selkirk and other communities regarding their involuntary inclusion in the CPR (operating as the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region) and being subjected to Plan 20-50.
Since the CPR’s establishment, Selkirk and many other municipalities have raised concerns about the non-transparent operations of the organization and the centralized approach imposed by their proposed regional framework titled Plan 20-50. Critics of Plan 20-50 have argued that the region’s operation would create unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, diluting local decision-making and imposing one-size-fits-all policies that may not align with individual community needs. Bill 42 responds to these concerns by empowering municipalities to decide their own paths.
For Selkirk, the proposed legislation represents success in its efforts to retain autonomy over its planning and development of the community. The City Council reviewed Bill 42 and supports its passage, viewing it as an essential step toward greater flexibility and autonomy for Selkirk.
“This bill is a clear indication that the province is listening to the concerns of municipalities and is committed to preserving the role of local governments in shaping their communities. By enabling us to opt out of the Capital Planning Region, the government has shown a great deal of respect for the unique needs of each community, including Selkirk, which has long advocated for the ability to make decisions that reflect the interests and priorities of our residents,” said Mayor Larry Johannson.
The bill introduces a straightforward process for municipalities to pass a resolution to leave or join the Capital Planning Region. Municipalities that choose to withdraw before the 2026 election can do so without additional conditions, ensuring a smooth transition. Municipalities who submit their resolution after the next municipal election will be required to conduct a public hearing before they can past the resolution requesting to leave.
The City of Selkirk acknowledges the potential benefits of a “coalition of the willing,” whereby the Capital Planning Region will consist of communities that choose to work together voluntarily. This approach fosters more meaningful collaboration and engagement among willing participants, which can enhance the effectiveness of regional planning efforts.
“We’ve never said the region shouldn’t exist; we just shouldn’t be included in it. By enabling communities to make their own decisions about joining or exiting the planning region, the bill lays the foundation for a more collaborative and successful regional framework,” added Mayor Johannson. “While we don’t believe, nor does the socio-economic data demonstrate, that Selkirk belongs in the Capital Planning Region, we look forward to working with our immediate neighbours in ways that make sense for everyone involved. We believe in collaboration, sharing services, and building more sustainable communities through partnership.”
Johannson said that City Council will continue advocating for effective, community-focused sustainable development that respects Selkirk’s unique character and growth objectives.
“Selkirk has a long history of making more environmentally responsible decisions. We are nationally recognized for our work in infrastructure asset management, climate adaptation, and climate mitigation. We believe that Bill 42 will allow us to continue making more responsible land-use and infrastructure decisions without interference and unnecessary red tape and costs to our citizens.”
