Portage la Prairie city council is urging members of the community to attend public hearings during city council meetings that directly pertain to issues affecting them.

During these formal hearings - which are typically held for zoning and permit applications - any individual is given the chance to comment, either in writing or verbally, and council has the opportunity to ask questions in order to better understand the situation.

"I do encourage everyone, if you are asking for a hearing and you want something done, please show up," says city councillor Ryan Espey. "Don't take for granted that you're getting a favorable recommendation, or it's a bygone conclusion, because of precedent, please show up and state your case because we can only make decisions based on the information that is presented to us. And if there's nobody there to speak for something that is said in opposition. It may not go well when the vote comes."

Just last month council opted to side with concerned neighbours when it came to making the decision surrounding an excess animal permit application. The applicant failed to attend the public hearing and council was left with more questions than answers.

"It's it's always better to show up and be heard," says Espey. "Many times, if you watch back at some of the council meetings, you'll see that that doesn't happen. Sometimes it doesn't have any impact at all, but occasionally, and we've seen that recently, it does."

Those that have upcoming public hearings that affect them, or should the public wish to voice their opinion, are required to register with the City of Portage by 3 p.m., on the day of the meeting in order to access the link to attend the virtual proceedings. Pre-register by calling 204-239-8337 or email info@city-plap.com.