Portage

The Liberal plan to give first-time homebuyers a tax break on a newly built home could have substantial impacts on housing affordability — with a few caveats — a new analysis finds.

The Liberal government introduced legislation on June 5 to eliminate the GST portion from new home sales of up to $1 million for first-time buyers, which works out to as much as $50,000 off the cost of a new build or a substantially renovated unit.

For homes sold above $1 million, the GST relief is phased out as the price tag nears $1.5 million.

Even in mid-spring, Portage la Prairie knows the value of a good rink.

City Council voted unanimously Monday night to approve a transfer of up to $300,000 from the General Infrastructure Reserve to help complete the Koko Platz Recreation Centre and Rink Project—pushing the community-driven effort one step closer to the finish line.

The decision comes in response to a $261,888 shortfall in the rink’s construction budget. The approved amount includes a small contingency to cover any unexpected costs as the project moves toward its anticipated August 2025 completion.

It’s a major milestone for one of Manitoba’s most active legions.

Gladstone’s Legion Branch #110 celebrated its 90th anniversary this past weekend, alongside the 50th anniversary of its clubroom. The day included a town tour, a donation to the local food cupboard, a high tea with dignitaries, and an afternoon of formal presentations at the Legion building.

Nick Beavington, a long-time Legion member and past president, says the day was a huge success, despite the rain.

The Association of Filipinos in Portage la Prairie is hosting multiple events this June to celebrate Filipino Heritage Month. Althea Almazan of the association says the celebrations honour both cultural traditions and Philippine Independence Day on June 12. 

"We were under Spanish rule for 300 years," Almazan notes. "June 12 marks our Independence Day from Spain." 

A new chapter for community living

Portage la Prairie is on the cusp of an exciting new era in residential living with the upcoming opening of Portage Commons, a purpose-built rental community by Kenmare.

The Winnipeg-based developer and management company is known for its innovative approach to real estate development and design/build contracting. With a commitment to quality and community, their projects across Western Canada are shaping the future of housing.

A government push to steer Canada Post and the union representing 55,000 mail workers toward common ground hit a big pothole Monday.

As an increasingly acrimonious impasse drags on, Canada Post rejected a framework put forward by the union for a binding arbitration process, which Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu asked the parties to work toward just five days earlier.

Manitoba is urging tourists to reconsider visiting as it works to find shelter for a flood of wildfire evacuees now reaching 21,000.

“This is one of the largest evacuations in our province’s history,” Lisa Naylor, the Manitoba minister in charge of emergency management, said Monday.

“The government anticipates there may be a need for more hotel rooms as the wildfire season continues. For that reason, we are urging Manitobans and Canadians to reconsider non-essential travel and event plans within Manitoba."

Lori Carpenter, director of Portage Ukrainian Nursery School, describes the 13th annual art show as a vibrant celebration of children’s creativity. Each year, students and their families collaborate on multiple art projects, fostering both imagination and connection. It was held once again at Prairie Fusion Arts and Entertainment's main gallery.

Thursday evening saw teachers and staff along with Carpenter and the families have a celebratory kickoff at the gallery.

William George Klassen

We regret to announce the passing of William “Willie” Klassen on May 23, 2025 at his home in Portage la Prairie, MB at the age of 67 years.

Willie will be lovingly remembered by his children Scott (Jenny) Klassen and Jazmine Klassen (Jeremy Whitford), grandchildren Jamie and Makenna Klassen, sister Judy Weiler, brother John Klassen, along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his father Peter Klassen, mother Tini “Katie” Klassen, brothers Jim Klassen and Ben Klassen.

The ongoing wildfire situation stretches from northern Ontario right across the prairies, with the threat to homes and communities and thousands of people being evacuated.

The Assistant Vice-President of Grain for CN, David Przednowek, says they are monitoring the situation very closely as their rail lines run through the north.

CN reports they've had some delays moving grain in and out of the Port at Thunder Bay but are also doing what they can to help with the wildfires.