The Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) held their spring session last week at the Keystone Centre where mayors, reeves and councillors representing the citizens of Manitoba's 137incorporated municipalities joined together in collaboration, in discussion and in learning from notable guest speakers.

Councillor for the RM of Sifton, Scott Phillips says it was a great three days with over 600 people from across the province coming to Brandon for a common goal. 

"Everyone had favorable things to say, from the breakout [sessions] to the speakers, to the information updates, the opening ceremonies, and the camaraderie," shares Phillips. 

He says what really caught his attention over the three days was the networking and the teamwork that took place.

"Everywhere you went you saw clusters of people at the lunches, and clusters of people in the hallways, in the evening socializing, and then again at breakfast in the morning," he explains.  "There's such a strong unity between the municipalities, especially in the western district."  

"You know, you work together, you share ideas, what works for you, what grants to look for.  The teamwork and the atmosphere was so positive from corner to corner," he adds. "It truly is amazing how well people get along and share ideas!"

Phillips says the formation of the Western Caucus has helped to solidify the collaborative effort between the municipalities in the southwest.

"Oh! 127%," says Phillips.  "The 24 municipalities in the western district are so strong, everyone gets along.  It is truly a real treat to work with this group. It doesn't matter if it's from Carwright to Elkhorn, it's such a great group all the way through!"

The AMM 's mission is to support their member municipalities through advocacy, programs, and services to achieve strong and effective municipal government.  Noting the itinerary over the course of the three days one could see this support clearly.

Tuesday morning's Education Workshop: Leading Practices in Municipal Government, speakers from KPMG shared, 'Based on our research and experience working with municipal governments, good governance for local government means 'doing the right thing, in the right way, for the right people, in a timely, open, honest and accountable manner.'"

Between the keynote speakers, trade show and breakout sessions our municipal leaders were encouraged by the depth of support from their AMM.

Phillips notes again the strength he sees within our southwest corner of the province.

"You'd see 50-60 people from the western district gathering, chit-chatting, networking and comparing notes from the day," he adds.  "It was just a well-received event and good things to come!"