A new RCMP Detachment opens in Neepawa, another result of Neepawa’s growth spurt. It has opened in the new development on the west side of town. Along with the new FIre Hall which opened last year, Neepawa now has a new RCMP detachment building to house its increasing staff. The new building is more than double the size of the former one.

Mayor Brian Hedley welcomed attendees and gave a brief history of the RCMP presence in Neepawa. In Manitoba, like many of the provinces, the RCMP is contracted to serve as a provincial police force, as has been the case since the days of the North West Mounted Police. Since the town’s founding in 1885, the RCMP has had a presence in the community.

The former building, located closer to the downtown area of Neepawa, had come to the end of its 24-year lease and upon inspection it was determined it needed complete replacement due to its outdated standards and the lack of space for expansion. The town announced the new project in early 2021, and much like the original building, the town took on the initial costs of construction but will see that money recouped later on.

Acting Officer in Charge for Manitoba’s Western Division, Paul Peddle, was on hand to introduce the serving officers in Spruce Plains, which includes the Neepawa detachment. Attendees were invited to tour the public areas of the facility, however no photography or videography was permitted.

The ribbon cutting was carried out by current and former heads of the Neepawa detachment Staff Sgt. Colby Argue and Staff Sgt. (Ret.) Mark Morehouse, as well as Mayor Hedley and Deputy Mayor Murray Parrott.