Kathy Valentino, president of the Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM), says bail reform, infrastructure funding, and housing were the topics of the week at their recent spring convention. The event included discussions with provincial ministers, municipal leaders, and guest speakers, alongside sessions on topics ranging from code of conduct policies to mental health advocacy.
Bail reform and public safety
Valentino notes the AMM placed advocacy for federal bail reform high on their schedule's list, citing collaboration with Justice Minister Matt Wiebe, who outlined Manitoba’s public safety strategy. Portage la Prairie Mayor Sharilyn Knox joined the dialogue, emphasizing the need for Criminal Code updates.
“The number one thing for us is the bail reform and public safety. We’re very happy to have Minister Wiebe join us,” Valentino says.
A joint letter signed by Valentino and Wiebe was sent to the prime minister and premiers urging reforms to improve community safety.
Infrastructure funding and housing challenges
Valentino adds that aging water and wastewater systems dominated infrastructure talks, with over 300 projects requiring updated funding models. Housing development barriers linked to outdated municipal financing were also debated.
“Municipalities aren’t barriers, they work very well to get housing development and permits in place,” she continues. "With that comes the 21st Century of dollar but the 19th Century funding model that we're trying to work with, and municipalities are broke."
The AMM argues current funding frameworks hinder growth, stressing the need for modernized provincial-municipal financial partnerships.
Mental health and leadership recognition
Humboldt Broncos survivor Tyler Smith’s keynote speech on mental health resonated deeply with attendees, Valentino says.
“How we need to deal with mental health as people… It’s something that was very inspiring and made us all think.”
Municipal Relations Minister Simard also drew praise for his engagement during the convention, participating in meetings and open forums with mayors and reeves.
The AMM’s spring convention wrapped with breakout sessions on topics including U.S. tariff impacts, medical first responder challenges, and highway maintenance. Valentino reaffirms the association’s focus on aligning provincial priorities with grassroots municipal needs.
The AMM collaborated with the Province and signed a letter to be sent to Ottawa to ensure bail reform see some major changes to deal with the rash of crime that the current system is not resolving.