The Association of Manitoba Municipalities reports several advocacy successes throughout 2021.

That's from president Kam Blight. He outlines last year's progress.

"It certainly was an interesting and challenging year, given the ongoing pandemic," notes Blight. "A lot of our meetings will be held virtually, which you know, we're very fortunate that we still have that opportunity and option to do so. We were able to host a safe and successful annual fall convention with nearly 700 delegates, both virtually and in-person in November."

Blight explains that that event is critical for both meeting face-to-face with their members from across Manitoba and as a means of helping them shape their advocacy efforts moving forward.

"Due to our advocacy efforts, greater COVID-19 supports have included the province providing 75 per cent of municipal operating funds earlier in the year, with the remainder coming in the fall," continues Blight. "That's for two years in a row. So, we're very excited."

He adds they lobbied the province quite aggressively and notes they were very pleased to see an increase in infrastructure investments by an additional $500 million through the Manitoba Restart program.

"And $50 million of that was dedicated to water and wastewater projects via the Manitoba Water Services Board to help restore economy," adds Blight. "These types of investments are critical for economic growth and building local communities."