‘It’s time to step up’: St. Norbert residents renew calls for preservation of Lemay Forest

Residents of Winnipeg's St. Norbert neighbourhood could soon discover the fate of Lemay Forest. An open house was held on Saturday with Tochal Developments, the land's owner, to consider three possible options for the area. "There's option A which is for the government to purchase the land and retain it as a public park. The second option is to develop it for residential purposes whereas the last option is to not proceed with any of the above," stated John Wintrup, a professional planner serving as a company representative. This approximately nine-hectare property, situated between Lemay Avenue and the Red River, has been a subject of dispute for a long time. "The forest offers therapeutic and health benefits, but we are losing many trees in the city each year. It's time for action," argued Cat Mcaulay Gauthier from the Coalition to Save Lemay Forest. However, Wintrup clarified that the company is not blocking the residents' preservation efforts, rather encouraging their involvement in discussions and contact with elected officials. Notwithstanding, the proposed options are not universally supported. Jaxon Kowaluk, of the coalition, expressed skepticism over the company’s intent to preserve the forest while also considering extensive residential development plans. With no official plan yet proposed, Wintrup mentioned that after years of public consultations a decision must come soon. "My client will not be the owner of this publicly accessible woodlot beyond the end of 2024," he disclosed. The forest's fate is slated to be presented to the standing policy committee on property and development on January 11. In the meantime, the coalition raises money to assist the city in buying the land. "We've already collected $5,000 and are optimistic the city will buy the land," said Stacy Gosman, a coalition member. This initiative is receiving endorsements from numerous city councilors. The parcel previously sold for $1.5 million, although the new price hasn't been determined.