What they are building at present is a new cell for the lagoon. This has meant they had to build up the property a little, as it was lower than the existing cell. Plan A is to build the new cell, put in the SAGR water operations system, and put in the electrical that is necessary. The municipality will operate out of that new one once it is complete. They are also putting out tenders for a new building to house the equipment and some storage space.

Once Phase A is complete, they will clean and line the old cell, bringing it back into service. The plan is to do as much under their own supervision as possible to save money on the project. 

The municipality received $6.5 million from the province for the lagoon, which Simard felt was a good investment. He added he was visiting Boissevain-Morton also to take a look at the campground where they also made a big donation and to discuss future concepts for seniors in the community. He also stressed there will be many projects ongoing in the future of rural Manitoba.

As for the lagoon itself, the plan is for it to be a two-year completion, although much of the practical work could be done by October 2027.

by PAUL RAYNER, Recorder staff