With significant tariffs on imported steel and aluminum going into effect, Selkirk's mayor is worried about what happens to his constituents. 

United States President Donald Trump announced on March 1 that a 25 percent tariff on important steel and a 10 percent tariff on aluminum would go into effect. Canada was included on a temporary exemption from the tariffs, but that expires Friday.

On Thursday, Canada sent a response, putting tariffs on steel and aluminum going the other way, matched dollar for dollar.

These tariffs could be devastating for the City of Selkirk.

"It's going to have a big impact on us," said Selkirk Mayor Larry Johannson. "I'm very disappointed that the federal government couldn't work harder with the Americans to bring this to a halt."

Johannson says that the steel industry is the second largest employer in Selkirk, just behind the provincial government. The mayor says it isn't just steel mills, but Selkirk also hosts a recycling plant and a number of employers who create steel products. One company, in particular, makes elevator bars, something that is often shipped into the U.S.

"I'm hoping they can work something out, this is very temporary, and they come to their senses," Johannson said, calling the 25 percent tariff "absolutely ludicrous."

These tariffs come on the heels of a large Manitoba Hydro increase. Johannson says that it is a "double whammy" for the city and believes it could end up being devastating.

"I plead with the federal government to work hard at this," the mayor begs. Johannson says he going to contact the provincial MLA and the federal MP of their region. He hopes they can lobby and get rid of the tariffs on both sides.

The biggest concern is those living payday to payday, who will have their bottom line affected significantly because of these tariffs.