2019 was summed up as a positive year for the R.M. of Stanley.

Reeve Morris Olafson says the municipality continued to grow at a steady pace both residentially and commercially, their village paving and sidewalk projects continued with good progress made, and the long-anticipated Massey water expansion in the 1-6 and 2-6 districts of the R.M. was completed.

"We had fourteen to twenty connections on that deal (Massey expansion) and room for more, as well as the Massey water upgrade the pump house...so we're staged now for the future in that regard." Olafson says the upgrade and expansion will allow them to add quite a few more hookups without straining their system.

Because of their outstanding staff, Olafson says the storm over Thanksgiving weekend was also a highlight point of the year. He says the highlight was that they kept the Boundary Trails Health Centre operational, keeping the Township Road open when the four lane highway was completely closed.

"We were able to keep the back road open between Winkler and Morden open for shift changes and or emergency services along the way. I give credit to these people. It's not easy, it's not safe, but they went out and we had no issue getting anybody coming to do this work," said Olafson.

The RM of Stanley's snow fleet ready to go when the call comes in. Throughout 2019, Olafson says the RM's heavy equipment, combined was put to work for 17,000 hours. (photo submitted)