The Portage la Prairie and District Chamber of Commerce has a new president.

Preston Meier, the former Chamber V-P, was officially sworn-in to the position at the organization's annual general meeting at Canad Inns in Portage la Prairie Wednesday afternoon. Meier succeeds Dave Omichinski — who spent the last two-and-a-half years in the role. He will remain on the board as past president.

“From a personal perspective, I'm extremely excited to be taking on the role,” Meier says. “...But more importantly, it's not about me, it's about us. And I think we've got a strong board that is really dedicated. They have the passion and desire to see Portage grow.”

“We're pretty excited our past president will stay on the board and (assist) with strategic directions.”

Providing advocacy on issues that affect the local business community was a key focus, Omichinski says, over his term as president.

“I think the Chamber is very well-positioned,” he explains. “I think Preston brings a lot of good skill-sets to the table. He's a team player who works (with others) collaboratively. I think the board is in good stead with him as leader.”

According to its website, the Chamber is an active, vocal organization, representing its membership's concerns by promoting a united voice in community, regional and provincial issues. The Chamber strives to be the leader in supporting the needs and concerns of the business community and aims to be the voice of business.

“We are the voice of our members, but we do want people to know we represent all business,” Meier adds.