The RM of Portage la Prairie has made some decisions in light of the COVID-19 pandemic to help its residents.

CAO Nettie NeudorfCAO Nettie Neudorf says council discussed some challenges that residents may be facing.

"And that being payments coming in with work slow-downs, and limited funds accessible at this time," notes Neudorf. "The penalty application on utility bills was extended to 90 days from the deadline for utility payment deadlines occurring at the end of March and every month thereafter up to and including August 2020."

She says this means any bills due at any time between the end of March and August have an additional three months before a penalty is applied. Neudorf says council was intent on supporting businesses who have utility connections in the RM as best they could during this time.

Neudorf adds any further decision to make additional extensions will be brought forward in a resolution before council.