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Brandon declares state of emergency

By: Staff Writer

Posted: 05/8/2011 2:35 PM | Comments: 0

Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger and Brandon East MLA Drew Caldwell chat with Brandon Fire and Emergency Services members Trevor Falk and Sheldon Reynolds as they tour flooded areas along the Assiniboine River in Brandon along 18th Street on Sunday afternoon. (TIM SMITH / BRANDON SUN)

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Brandon East MLA Drew Caldwell and Brandon Mayor Shari Decter Hirst give Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger a tour of the flooding in Brandon on Sunday afternoon. (TIM SMITH / BRANDON SUN)

BRANDON — The City of Brandon has declared a state of local emergency, which grants it sweeping powers in its fight against the flooding Assinibione River.

Mayor Shari Decter-Hirst and council made the move during an emergency meeting this morning.

Under the state of emergency, police are able to remove sightseers who hamper efforts to heighten the city's earth dikes.

"They're treating it like a Saturday night at the movies," emergency co-ordinator Brian Kayes said of the flood-watchers.

The state of emergency also allows officials to evacuate large portions of the city if necessary, to trespass without a warrant if needed and to commandeer personnel and equipment.

At this morning's meeting there was also talk of closing portions of 18th and First streets if necessary, but no decision was made.

Premier Greg Selinger flew to Brandon this morning to tour flooded areas.

Selinger met with Mayor Decter-Hirst and they toured flood-stricken areas and dikes.

The premier was also expected to brief the mayor on provincial resources available for the flood fight.

— Brandon Sun

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