Portage la Prairie's Mayor Sharilyn Knox has weighed in on her opinion of the Provincial Throne Speech Tuesday afternoon. She notes Portage actually received a shout-out during the speech when making reference to a sustainable aviation fuel facility possibly coming to the region.
"That's exciting that we know we have the backing of the government. There were lots of things for Portage that we find just in general for citizens. They're continuing on with the elimination of the tax on gas. They're looking at freezing hydro rates, which puts more money back for a year, that puts more money back in citizens' pockets. We did have mention about municipalities and giving autonomy on different things, which is great overall for Portage la Prairie."
She says it was quite a good budget speech. Knox also describes it as a very inclusive budget speech.
"There was also lots of mention on healthcare. We saw lots of emphasis on staffing, which is important. I had a chat with the Health Minister after the Throne Speech and they were quick to really mention their tour of the facility and how they learned a whole lot and they really know that staffing and making sure that we get the people we need in Portage is a priority. So, it was really good to hear that. They were listening and that they saw that that's a direction that they have to take in Portage."
Knox explains communication between Portage and the provincial government involves a bit of both having them ask for Portage's input as well as hearing about decisions after they're made.
"We've built some really good relationships within the cabinet," adds Knox. "I can honestly say that on days like Tuesday, where I can talk to many ministers and—like I've said before—they bring up issues with Portage la Prairie before I even have to say them. I like that they're listening and hearing us. We obviously just had a shuffle recently and so that again takes some time to get the ministers that we're working with up to snuff. But Minister Simard is the new Municipal Minister. There were many mayors there yesterday that we met with him following the Throne Speech and were able to just start building that relationship."