The Mayor for Ritchot says growth and activity is happening in all corners of the municipality. And Chris Ewen says that translates into a huge win for their residents.
In looking back on the last 12 months, Ewen says two of the biggest projects that happened in Ritchot, were the daycares that moved into both Ile des Chenes and St. Adolphe.
According to Ewen, the daycare in Ile des Chenes is up and running with children already enjoying their new space. He notes the daycare in St. Adolphe will probably open within the next few weeks.
"That's very exciting to see two daycares coming to Ritchot," notes Ewen.
He says another significant project in 2023 was the official opening of their boat launch in Ste. Agathe. Ewen says people used the boat launch during the warm months for boating, fishing, and enjoying other activities along the Red River.
In Ile des Chenes, Ewen says they built a brand-new outdoor skating rink. The project involved completely removing the old one.
And, in Grande Pointe, the Mayor says the most significant project in 2023 involved bringing fiber optic Internet to the area. He notes this service makes it easier to both live and work in the municipality.
Meanwhile, one of the projects that hits very close to home for the municipality is the expansion of its municipal office in St. Adolphe. Construction started in 2023 and once complete, the project will see a 4,200-square-foot addition as well as a complete renovation to the existing 3,750 square feet of space. Ritchot's municipal office building is currently home to 11 employees. The new building will be able to accommodate up to 20 employees and will also include a new board room and council chambers.
"It's coming along very positively," says Ewen. "It's taking a little bit longer than expected, but we're seeing some great progress and it's going to be a great asset for all of the residents in Ritchot come 2024."
And finally, Ewen says 2023 saw the continued collaboration between municipalities involved in constructing a wastewater treatment facility.
"That will be a huge win for not just the municipality of Ritchot, but all of the surrounding areas including us," adds Ewen.