After 14 years of dedicated service, Kam Blight has officially resigned as Reeve of the RM of Portage la Prairie, marking the end of what he describes as some of the best years of his life. Blight announced his decision, citing a need to focus on his health and family, but expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community.
Effective Friday, Oct. 11, Kam Blight made the announcement.
Blight says the decision was made after careful consideration.
"I have to take some time for myself, focus on my health and well-being, and spend more time with my family. Unfortunately, that means I can no longer assume the duties of being the Reeve of the RM of Portage. It's not a decision I take lightly. It’s been very difficult, as these have been some of the greatest years of my life."
Blight first became Reeve in 2010
"In our council meetings, I tried to ensure we were having a little fun while doing the work. The job can be daunting, but I believe we found a balance between being serious and still enjoying what we were doing. I’ve been fortunate to work alongside amazing council members and municipal staff, and that’s really made the experience incredible."
Blight highlighted significant challenges during his tenure, including the 2011 and 2014 floods, the 2019 Thanksgiving snowstorm, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
"It was one thing after another, but with the support of our incredible staff and residents, we navigated it together. We also had major successes, particularly in industrial growth, with historic investments in our municipality."
He pointed to the development of the industrial park as a major achievement, along with enhancements and services in the entire RM. He also expressed gratitude for the partnerships with corporate citizens in the area.
"It’s been absolutely incredible to be part of it," he said.
Change also means departure from Presidency of AMM
Blight’s resignation also means stepping down as leader of Association of Manitoba Municipalities.
"I can’t thank the citizens of the RM of Portage enough for entrusting me with this role. It’s truly been an honour to represent the RM both provincially and nationally. The support from council and our incredible staff made all the difference, especially during my time with the AMM. These have been 14 of the greatest years of my life."
Blight also gave a special thanks to his family for their love and support during his time as Reeve.
"My family has been incredible. They sacrificed a lot, and I cannot thank them enough for everything they’ve done for me."
RM staff weigh in
RM of Portage la Prairie CAO Kyle Hamilton said Blight has been monumental for the municipality, noting his influence extends beyond local politics to the provincial and national levels through his work with the AMM and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.
"Working with him has been a pleasure. He’s a very good leader and speaker," Hamilton said.
Hamilton outlined the procedure following Blight's departure, with a by-election set for early in the new year. In the interim, Deputy Reeve Roy Tufford will lead council while maintaining his current role.
At the AMM, vice-president Kathy Valentino will assume the presidency until an election takes place at the end of November.