September 15, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Portage la Prairie Planning District is pleased to announce the appointment of Grant Gessell as the new General Manager of the Portage la Prairie Planning District, effective October 3, 2023.

Grant comes to the position with valuable knowledge and experience developed through his background in construction and project management. He has proven communication and leadership abilities to guide the organization and build strong relationships with our various partners and stakeholders.

As the General Manager, Grant will report to the Portage la Prairie Planning District Board of Directors. He will oversee the daily operations of the Planning District and be responsible for the overall leadership, financial planning, and management of the organization in accordance with standards and policies established by the Board.

“We’re very excited to welcome Grant as the Portage la Prairie Planning District’s General Manager,” said Board Chair, Ryan Espey. “We are looking forward to working with him to serve the planning and development needs of the City and Rural Municipality of Portage la Prairie.”

“I couldn’t be more excited,” said Gessell. “The City and RM of Portage la Prairie have been growing over the past years and I look forward to being a part of that positive growth. The Planning District has a great team of staff in place, which I have recently met. I can’t wait to collaborate and develop with the staff as the knowledge they bring to the table is valuable. The community has a lot to offer, and I’m thrilled to be a part of this group.”

The Portage la Prairie Planning District’s purpose is planning for a safe, organized community. They manage the planning initiatives that guide development in the City of Portage la Prairie and the Rural Municipality of Portage la Prairie by administering the development plan and ensuring standardized planning requirements through zoning by-laws that encompass both municipalities.