In the first 6 months of this year, MSTW issued a total of 372 permits, 113 more than the first half of 2020.

In the R.M. of Stanley, 104 permits were issued, valued at $14.59 million, 95 permits were taken out in Morden valued at $15.3 million, 156 permits were issued in Winkler for a total of $17.59, and in the R.M. of Thompson, 17 permits were issued, valued at $1.8 million.

"I think throughout the region, everybody's growing at a similar pace, there's lots of stuff happening," said Glen Wieler MSTW General Manager.

"Now Winkler being the largest community in the region has the most permits by default, because they just have the most people there, therefore the most activity. Percentage-wise, I think the growth is pretty steady across the MSTW district with permit activity across the board."

Wieler says it's great to see people investing in their homes, and that shows in the number of permits for residential improvements. He says they're seeing a lot of home addition projects, like sunrooms, as well as decks, and sheds. The most growth in new activity has been the addition of backyard pools.

If you are putting in a pool, above ground, or inground, Wieler says a building permit is required. "More so, we're looking at life safety at that point, to make sure that the yard or pool area is appropriately fenced, because it is the responsibility of the home owner to ensure that the pool is properly fenced for security or safety."