The eighth Association of Manitoba Municipalities convention opens today in Winnipeg.

Representatives from virtually all municipalities in the province are taking part.

That includes the City of Portage. With seminars on municipal government available, Mayor Ken Brennan feels it'll especially give new Council members a better understanding of municipal politics. He adds they'll also be part of meetings with provincial ministers, hear guest speakers, and debate resolutions.

The City isn't presenting any resolutions, but Brennan's interested in one from Gretna, calling for Infrastructure grants to be per capita based. He's not sure Portage would benefit from that idea.

The RM of Portage is also there, and Reeve Toby Trimble believes it's important to participate. He points to discussing issues with other municipalities and training seminars for new councillors as examples.

Trimble adds the convention's a chance for members of council to meet with provincial ministers, to get their take on issues pertinent to the RM. He notes they've asked for meetings with the Ministers of Transportation and Water Stewardship.

The AMM convention lasts until Thursday.