housing variety in the municipality’s development strategy. “We would love to see more residential growth. Some developers are looking to create smaller lots with single-family dwellings. We have one approved project awaiting construction, and we have significant undeveloped land. I’ve lived here all my life and would like to see these areas grow faster with diverse housing options available to current and prospective residents.” REGIONAL PARTNERSHIPS THAT WORK St. Clements exemplifies how rural municipalities can amplify their impact through strategic partnerships. “We have several valued partnerships that are integral to moving forward as a municipality,” says Joshi. “We’re part of the Winnipeg Regional group, which includes 18 communities surrounding Winnipeg that work together on joint planning, development, and specific projects like fiber internet infrastructure.” This regional approach has evolved into formal economic development structures. “We’ve established a corporation between 13 like-minded municipalities called John Q Public,” Joshi explains. “It functions as the economic development arm of these communities, generating revenue that can be shared among all participating municipalities.” Infrastructure collaboration represents another successful partnership model. “Our infrastructure collaboration with neighboring communities like St. Andrews and East St. Paul helps ensure we’re utilizing scarce infrastructure dollars in the most efficient manner,” notes Joshi.“This approach protects our environment and helps avoid groundwater contamination from septic fields common in rural areas.” Recreation and cultural services benefit from similar 198 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 05
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