The Reeve for Hanover says they may begin expansion of the New Bothwell lagoon by fall.

Stan Toews explains the move is necessary because Bothwell Cheese is expanding its operations and they have outgrown the current lagoon. He notes land has been purchased and an environmental license has been applied for.

Toews says engineers have told them the earliest they can begin the expansion is in fall. That is because of the length of time it can take to obtain an environmental license from the government.

He admits the need for this expansion crept up on them as it was only a couple of years ago when their lagoon still had all kinds of room.

Another significant project planned for 2019 will happen in the community of Mitchell. Toews explains they are planning for a lift station and force main at the north end of Mitchell to allow for a large development by Schinkel Properties. This will provide gravity sewer servicing. To date, engineering design costs have been the only expenses with a projected construction cost of $1.5 million in 2019.

(Trail in Grunthal under construction in 2018.) Toews highlights a pair of projects happening in Grunthal over the next 12 months. He explains the Grunthal Multiplex committee plans to spend money on a capital campaign.

"They have been told that you can under raise and you can overextend," he says. "They said if you did a study you kind of could hit what people were willing to contribute."

Toews says the committee is anxious to get started on this project and notes he expects they may begin fundraising in 2019.

The other project happening in Grunthal this year will see crews continue with phase two of the walking and cycling paths along Wiens Road, connecting to Cottonwood Trail.

On the fire protection side, there are a couple of significant events happening in 2019. The municipality is expected to open its new fire hall in Blumenort around July 1st. Meanwhile, the New Bothwell hall will be receiving a new fire rescue truck in spring of this year.

And finally, Hanover is anticipating approval of its Development Plan and Zoning Bylaw by late winter or early spring.