Politicians from across the province descend on Winnipeg today, as the Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) annual convention begins.

Portage la Prairie Mayor Irvine Ferris says there's a number of resolutions the city will support concerning different issues. One resolution they're interested in is lobbying the provincial government to collaborate with Saskatchewan's government to address drainage issues originating in the neighbouring province.

"This is really, really important to Portage and the entire region here," Ferris says. "We're kind of near the end of the line as far as the river goes and there's been a lot of new drainage in Saskatchewan over the last few years

"I know this a concern (RM of Portage la Prairie) Reeve Blight has as well," continues Ferris. "This water goes in ditches, eventually the river, and all comes this way. A lot of times prevention is far more cost effective and more effective overall than trying to mitigate things after the flood starts."

Another issue of interest for Portage la Prairie is the provincial School Tax. Ferris says they'll support a resolution to push for AMM representation to be at the table in talks concerning School Tax reforms.

"This is something that's been talked about a lot, and it's a major cost for every property owner," the Portage Mayor says. "This is something we believe, the current model is outdated. A lot of other jurisdictions have changed the way they fund education. It's something that needs to be reviewed."

Getting AMM delegates on the Highway Traffic Board is another effort Ferris says they're in support of. He says the HTB is difficult to deal with, as it lacks understanding of municipalities.

"We dealt with this in Portage about six-years-ago when we were looking at changing speed limits in school zones," Ferris explains. "... It's also an issue in lots of other communities."

Ministerial meetings at the convention take place tomorrow. Ferris says he's looking forward to those sessions, to communicate with delegates from the provincial government.

"It's always an interesting opportunity. Every year the premier and entire cabinet comes out and takes questions from the floor, from us," Mayor Ferris explains. "And this is also a brand new government and brand new premier. Obviously I've met the premier and a number of ministers before, but I haven't met them all."

"And for a lot of our delegates, it will be the first time meeting them and hearing their positions on issues," continues Ferris. "It's a chance for us to communicate."