The hole that former Central Plains RCMP Inspector Paul Peddle's departure left for the community has been filled by one, Zane Semaniuk.

During Monday night's city council meeting, Semaniuk was introduced as the Acting Detachment Commander for the Central Plains RCMP and received a warm welcome from council members and Mayor Sharilyn Knox.

After being introduced, Semaniuk was given the microphone and took the time to express his excitement about being in Portage la Prairie.

"This is my second time back to Portage. I've been a Detachment Commander for the last ten years and am looking forward to working in this great community."

Semaniuk, who is from Manitoba, says returning to his home province from where he was stationed in Okotoks, Alberta is a nice shake-up.

"I am very familiar with the community. My family and I lived here for eight and a half years before leaving in 2014. So, the culture and everything else have always been good to us. We have a great friend base here. Everyone's friendly, and we seem to know someone everywhere we go."

Semaniuk started in the role on January 29. He tells PortageOnline that the RCMP will continue to play a big part in the community under his leadership.

"Community safety has always been right at the top of the spectrum here in Portage and that hasn't changed. Visibility is always being increased; that's something we always want to work towards and will continue to do."