Greetings to Our Members,
Winter is here, and it’s wonderful to see our members and their equipment in action—clearing snow from streets, parking lots, active transportation trails, and sidewalks, as well as salting and sanding surfaces. After last year’s sparse snowfall, it’s fantastic to witness equipment and manpower hard at work again!
We’re making significant headway toward having “snow clearing equipment” recognized as emergent vehicles under highway traffic legislation. This progress is a testament to the dedication of HEAT’s Board of Directors, and particularly of the Snow Removal Standards Committee, chaired by Michelle Magdic. Over the years, we’ve faced countless dangerous situations, accidents, and even fatalities during snow clearing operations.
Your safety is our top priority. Through sustained efforts—meeting with senior executives, collaborating with associations such as MPI, CAA, Manitoba Heavy Construction Association, and Manitoba Trucking Association, and engaging government bodies—we’re closer than ever to achieving meaningful legislative change. The province has acknowledged the need for safeguards to ensure safer work sites for our members and the public. We anticipate that proposed amendments will be introduced in the legislature during the next session on March 5, 2024, with approval potentially aligning the new rules for the next snow season.
Once enacted, there will be a comprehensive public awareness campaign to educate motorists about their responsibilities under the law, including penalties for non-compliance. We’ll keep you informed of developments, including the outcome of next week’s discussions with the province.
We’ve also been working hard engaging with Provincial Leadership.
Last week, I attended a Manitoba of Chamber of Commerce event at the Convention Centre alongside our Past President Peter Vogiatzakis.
We had the opportunity to engage directly with Premier Wab Kinew, Finance Minister Adrian Sala, Minister of Infrastructure Lisa Naylor, Minister of Public Service Mintu Sandhu, and MLA for McPhillips JD Devgan.
These one-on-one conversations are invaluable for raising awareness of H.E.A.T., the essential services we provide, and the significant role our Association plays in Manitoba’s economy.
I wish you all Season Greetings! As we embrace this busy season, let’s also take time to connect with loved ones, check in on seniors, and spread kindness—it’s the best gift of all.
Happy Holidays!
Bruce Henley
Stakeholder Relations Manager
HEAT
