Brandon Minute: School Amalgamation, Gateway City, and Parkview Seniors Upgrades

Brandon Minute - Your weekly one-minute summary of Brandon politics

This Week In Brandon:

• There are no Council meetings at City Hall this week. The next meeting will take place on Monday, November 4th.
  
  
• The Parkview Seniors Housing Co-op is undergoing extensive energy-efficiency upgrades, funded by a $3.49 million contribution from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. Renovations include new insulation, triple-pane windows, updated heating and cooling systems, and LED lighting, aimed at significantly reducing energy costs. Built in 1955, the building last saw major renovations in 1988, aside from a roof replacement three years ago. The project, which began in June, aims to modernize the facility, enhance sustainability, and extend its lifespan by another 70 years.
  
  
• Cities Church Brandon is proposing an amalgamation with Christian Heritage School (CHS), aiming to rebrand the school as Brandon Christian Academy and enable the church to appoint board members. This initiative is intended to bring a “fresh vision” and updated facilities, including new heating systems, windows, and transportation. Although the two organizations would remain separate, the church would take a leadership role to enhance the school’s faith-based education. The move would have to be approved by CHS’s members in a November vote. If the proposal is rejected, Cities Church plans to explore a church-led educational initiative by 2026.

Last Week In Brandon:

• Destination Canada has launched "Field to Fork," an agritourism initiative spanning Manitoba and Saskatchewan, with Brandon designated as a key gateway city. Part of the broader Tourism Corridor Strategy Program, this project aims to boost regional tourism by attracting visitors to experience Canada’s agricultural richness through farm-to-table dining, workshops, and Indigenous agritourism. The corridor will highlight other cities too, including Winnipeg, Saskatoon, and Regina.
  
  
• The Entrepreneur Hub, launched by Westman Immigrant Services, has already assisted more than 100 clients, helping immigrants start businesses and fostering local economic growth. Situated on Rosser Avenue, the Hub has received over $1 million in federal funding to address the unique challenges immigrants face in business. It provides training, workshops on topics like marketing and business permits, and access to local mentors to support entrepreneurs at different stages of business development..
  
  
• Samaritan House Ministries in Brandon has appointed Heather Symbalisty as its new Executive Director, effective December 16th, 2024, following the retirement of longtime leader Barbara McNish. McNish’s nearly three decades of service saw Samaritan House expand essential programs for those facing homelessness, hunger, and hardship. The leadership transition is part of a strategic plan to uphold the organization’s compassionate values while ensuring continuity in service.