Big things are happening in the Village of St. Pierre-Jolys this summer, with new development, immigration initiatives, and community events shaping a busy and exciting season. Mayor Raymond Maynard recently spoke about the many changes and projects underway, including a major new housing project that has the full support of Council and the community.
New Supportive Housing Facility on the way
One of the biggest wins for the village came in June when Council heard a proposal from the Village Manor (a local seniors’ housing complex) to build a 26-unit Supportive Housing facility on its grounds. The idea was met with strong support from all in attendance, including Mayor Maynard.
“Oh, I think it's great for the community and the region,” Maynard said. “It's something that has been needed for quite a long time, and now with the support of Eco West and their group, I think this is something that is going to be very good and something that's extremely needed.”
The group making the project proposal will now move into Phase Two and begin design plans and applying for grants.
Construction boom continues in St Pierre.
In addition to the new supportive housing development, general construction activity in St. Pierre is strong this summer.
Mayor Maynard notes, “Yeah, it's nice for us to have all this construction happening. There’s one developer that stalled out for a bit, but another other developer, with the apartment blocks, is moving fast. They’re already working on a second one, and there’s talk of a third apartment block on that property.”
Infrastructure work marches on
St. Pierre is also focusing on needed upgrades and repairs to infrastructure.
“We’ve got some streets that need repairs,” Maynard said. “Last year we started the path down Jolys Avenue East, and we’re finishing it this year. We're also planning an expansion of our Lift Station to add a second line to the lagoon. That’s in the budget, though not finalized yet.”
Welcoming new residents through Francophone Immigration Pilot Program
As more housing is built, the village is preparing to welcome new residents through the Rural Francophone Immigration Pilot Program, a federal initiative focused on bringing French-speaking newcomers to rural communities. St. Pierre is the only French community in Manitoba participating in the three-year program.
Maynard says, “We're excited about it. It'll help offset employment needs in the village and the region. Not just here in the village, but in the RM of De Salaberry and beyond.”
He notes that interest in the program has already taken off.
“I’ve personally received about 15 emails from immigrants wanting to move here, while our CAO, has a file with over 60 emails. It’s fantastic for us; we love it.”
Stormy weather hits some farmers hard
While the village itself has avoided any major weather-related damage, some local farmers haven’t been so lucky.
“The extreme weather hasn’t really affected the village,” said Maynard. “But being in the insurance business, I know some farmers have been hit hard. One lost nearly 2,000 acres to hail. They call it the ‘white combine.’ It’s heartbreaking. These folks work hard, but you can’t control Mother Nature.”
Community centre expansion moves ahead
Another project on the horizon for the Village of St Pierre-Jolys is the Les Rendez-Vous Project. Plans are for a major update to the village’s Community Centre and Arena. While much of the planning and design work is already done, fundraising is now in full swing.
Maynard says, “We had our Ray Gagne Memorial Golf Tournament recently, which helped with the fundraising. “We’re hoping to get a shovel in the ground by March 2026 for Phase One. And if we can get a federal grant, we’ll do both Phase One and Phase Two at the same time.”
Excitement builds for Frog Follies Festival
With summer in full swing, all eyes are on the Frog Follies Festival, set for August 7–10. This year, visitors will get to see some fresh upgrades at Carillon Park.
“When you come to Frog Follies, you’ll see our newly renovated shelter and the work our Deputy Mayor and his committee have done,” said Maynard. “They’ve done a fantastic job.”
Looking ahead
With growth on the horizon, new residents arriving, and community projects taking shape, Mayor Maynard says the spirit of St. Pierre remains strong.
“We’re building something that’s not just for now, but for the future of St. Pierre and the whole region.”