The Wrap: Skibicki trial closing arguments, city hall in the red, Niverville studio breaks ground and PTE’s new managing director

Jeremy Skibicki, who admitted to killing four women in Winnipeg but wants a trial to find him not guilty of murder because of mental illness, will learn his fate July 11.

Skibicki’s lawyers argue he should be found not criminally responsible, saying he was suffering from schizophrenia.

Prosecutors characterized the killings as racially motivated and said Skibicki preyed on the women at homeless shelters. They presented DNA, video surveillance and witness evidence in their arguments that Skibicki had the mental capacity and awareness to commit and cover up the killings.

Chief Justice Glenn Joyal said he would deliver his verdict on July 11.

Following closing arguments, the families of Skibicki’s victims held a press conference, resuming their calls for a search of the Prairie Green Landfill for their relatives’ remains.

Premier Wab Kinew said the province will meet with victims’ families tomorrow and would afterwards provide a “significant update” on plans for the landfill search.

The City of Winnipeg is projecting a $39.3-million deficit for its tax-supported budget in 2024, based on finances up to March 31.

Aside from 2023, this is the only time in recent history Winnipeg’s first-quarter deficit projection was too big to be covered by the rainy-day fund.

Deficits of $12.1 million for Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service, $9.6 million for public works, $7.4 million for planning, property and development and $4.5 million for the Winnipeg Police Service are expected to contribute to the shortfall. Unrealized savings targets and recreation revenues are also expected to add to the red ink.

City hall reporter Joyanne Pursaga reports.

After nearly a year of delays, crews have broken ground on a studio anticipated to make Niverville a movie production hub.

Prominent members of Manitoba’s film and business sectors gathered Monday in the community for the official sod-turning of Jette Studios.

If all goes well, the 25,000-sq.-ft. studio — including a sound stage and 360-degree LED wall — will be completed in January.

Business reporter Gabrielle Piché reports.

Prairie Theatre Exchange has named Katie Inverarity as its new managing director.

Inverarity spent the last 11 years working at the director of communications and marketing at the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, helping to guide the organization through a transition of artistic leadership and a pandemic.

Ben Waldman writes on the summer of leadership transitions ahead for her.