Residents in Gimli, Manitoba, are reacting to viral social media claims about a major tax increase following the recent suspension of Mayor Kevin Chudd. The reports, which spread quickly online, suggested a significant hike in local property taxes to pay for various projects that have not been confirmed by local officials.
A post in the What’s Up Gimli Community Facebook group reached over 22,000 people in just 48 hours. However, there is currently no official record or announcement from the Rural Municipality of Gimli to support the claim of a 29 percent tax increase or unusual spending on projects like zoo improvements.
These rumors surfaced shortly after Mayor Kevin Chudd was suspended from his duties for one week in early 2026. An independent investigation determined that multiple complaints about his conduct were founded, which led to the temporary sanction against him.
During the period of the mayor’s suspension, Deputy Mayor Kurt Reichert served as the acting head of the council. While the social media posts have caused significant discussion among neighbors, current municipal tax records do not show that such a large increase has been approved for the community.
