Vol. 11 No. 1, March 2006 The newsletter of the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association SUMA Publication Agreement No. 40027298 Premier begins revenue Inside this issue sharing recovery Some new directions were taken work on the matter of the in showing respect for urban education share of property tax is Convention 2006 is the main topic in governments when Premier Lorne not complete and further this issue of UV, including the Calvert and new Government announcements will follow.” The Premier’s announcement of a $10 Relations Minister Harry Van Education Tax Coalition, of million top-up to the Revenue Sharing Mulligen spoke at the 101st which SUMA is a member, will pool for 2005, and the addition of SUMA Convention in Regina on want to know whether a further $10 million to the Revenue Sharing base in the 2006 Budget. Further, February 5-8, 2006. Former commitment will come by the Premier Calvert and President Don new Government Relations Minister minister Lorne Taylor, now time of the SARM Convention in Schlosser were scrummed by the Harry Van Mulligan revealed in his Health Minister, was also credited early March, the provincial media after the Premier announced speech to delegates that the at Convention with having helped budget later that month, or not increased funding for municipalities. government is giving some preliminary municipalities make their case until next year. thought to developing an “urban over the last two years. By making his funding agenda” which would bring together The first of three notable announcements at the SUMA various policies and programs that are achievements was money for Convention, the Premier partly important to urban municipalities. municipal services and exposed the recent “secrecy” Expect to hear more about that in infrastructure, amounting to a myth that ongoing program future issues of Urban Voice. total of $52 million. The Premier announcements must await started with “a one-time, $10 budget day. This was the second • President’s Message ...... 2 million top-up” to unconditional significant achievement, requiring • Executive Director’s Report . . . 2 revenue sharing for 2005-06,” the Premier to trump the extended • Donations Accepted for equivalent to about $10 per capita deliberations of his own Treasury Badham Scholarship Fund . . . . . 2 depending on distribution Board in order to carry concrete • Senator Campbell addresses decisions still to come. This same news to the Convention. In SUMA’s initial response to the delegates ...... 3 amount is to be added to the Premier’s positive announcements, Resolved to see major The third major achievement, • Revenue Sharing program base President Don Schlosser said that changes ...... 3 saved for the Minister’s speech, starting in fiscal year 2006-07, he was very pleased to see that Reports from the sectors . . . . . 4 was “recognition that our urban • with most of this funding going the lobbying campaign by cities, Highlights from Education municipalities – our cities, towns • to urban municipalities. towns and villages over the last Sessions ...... 5 and villages have an important year has been heard, including Awards Highlight President’s Another one-time commitment role in advancing the social and • the special efforts by the City Banquet ...... 5 “to reinvest and rebuild our economic goals of the province, Mayors’ Caucus in the two weeks New Trade Show Venue communities” will provide $32 and that urban communities face • leading to Convention. Draws Praise ...... 7 million for unconditional capital issues and challenges distinct • Recycling Task Force finalizes funding through a Community from rural and northern areas.” “We knew we had made a strong new directions ...... 8 Share 2006 program. The total of case for starting a Revenue “As a result,” Van Mulligen said, New Directions in $42 million in one-time dollars, Sharing recovery, “ Schlosser • “Government Relations is devel- Community Development . . . . . 8 made possible by increased oil said, “and we are very oping some preliminary ideas for Leadership Forum ...... 9 and gas revenues, is to be encouraged the Premier has • a provincial ‘Urban Agenda’ that Dialogue with Environment distributed before the end of recognized that supporting • goes beyond specific municipal Minister ...... 9 March. The other $10 million municipal services and legislative or fiscal issues toward • Dialogue with the Minster of will be an ongoing increase to infrastructure investments will Rural Development ...... 9 initiatives and strategies that current urban and rural grants. also help to support economic support long term urban • Leaders explore Saskatchewan’s development in Saskatchewan. Nuclear Future ...... 10 The Premier also mentioned the community sustainability and that We look forward to continuing Cash fuels good will hunting at already committed $55 million enhance urban government • this progress.” Cabinet Bearpit ...... 11 continuation of last year’s 8% capacity. We recognize the • Music, fun and games on Mardi education tax credit on property shared challenge to build and Delegates at the Convention Gras night ...... 11 appeared to recognize that further tax bills, but he hinted that more support an enabling environment A Tale of Three Towns . . . . . 12 could come. Minister Van in which municipalities will progress must include converting • • Watching the Numbers in Mulligen also echoed that, “as continue to play a key role in the one-time funding into longer- Moose Jaw ...... 12 the Premier said yesterday, our provincial economy.” term commitments. President’s speech opens Convention 2006 President Don Schlosser began campaign than in 2004. He also the province. The workshops will positive alternative to the illegal his speech at the opening of the emphasized that a true revenue be a joint effort by SUMA and withholding of school taxes, convention by asking for a sharing program continues to be SARM. Schlosser also reviewed a practice that SUMA cannot moment of silence in memory of SUMA’s top priority. (About two the activities of the Education support.” Mike Badham. During the silence hours later Premier Calvert Tax Coalition, including the President Schlosser concluded a visual presentation of photos responded at least in part to coalition’s call for additional by thanking former Government from various periods of Mike’s SUMA’s campaign as reported funding in the 2006 Budget to Relations Minister Len Taylor life were projected on the large in the story above.) bring the province’s share of for his work with SUMA in the screens in the meeting room. K-12 funding to 50 per cent this President Schlosser also portfolio, and welcomed the new year, rising to at least 60 per cent In his speech President Schlosser reaffirmed that SUMA has joined Minister, Harry Van Mulligan. in 2008. touched briefly on some of the with SARM as a full partner in “We in SUMA look forward highlights of the past year, the Clearing the Path initiative. “The members of the coalition to working with you to help including the signing of the New He urged delegates to attend see this proposal as a reasonable resolve the issues we face as Deal agreement and the greater Clearing the Path workshops response to address the growing communities, and as a province,” attention paid to municipal issues being planned for March and public pressure for school tax Schlosser said. during the federal election April at various locations around relief,” Schlosser said. “It is a
March 2006 The Voice of Saskatchewan Cities, Towns and Villages 1 Donations accepted for SUMA’s 101st annual convention Mike Badham scholarship fund is now behind us, and an eventful one it was. One of the highlights SUMA members were was Premier Calvert’s shocked and saddened by the announcement that the provincial death of past President Mike government will top up revenue Badham, who was killed in a sharing program for 2005 with two-vehicle collision outside $10 million, with the same Regina on January 23rd. Many amount added to the base for the SUMA members, along with 2006-2007 budget year. He also hundreds of others whom announced a one-time, $32 Mike touched during his life, million program for 2006 to help gathered a few days later to municipalities address their The Premier also announced that celebrate his life at the infrastructure needs. The the $55 million School Tax Credit Conexus Arts Centre. additional money is welcome will continue in 2006, but that Now, the University of Regina news. Just as welcome was the more work needs to be done to has announced it is accepting Premier’s statement that his craft a longer-term solution to the donations for a scholarship government had listened to the education tax issue. SUMA is one arguments that SUMA members of the six members of the fund established to honour have been putting forward for the Education Tax Coalition which Badham’s memory. The Mike Mike Badham,, 1942-2006 past several months regarding the has been asking the provincial Badham Scholarship Fund for need for additional revenue government to reduce the Education will be awarded to sharing. In his speech Premier education property tax burden students entering the Faculty of Education. Financial need will be Calvert referred to our through additional provincial the main criteria in selecting recipients, but the applicant’s convention theme, “Dawning of a funding for K-12 education. volunteer involvement and commitment to their community will New Direction.” I hope his During my opening remarks to the also be considered in the adjudication process. announcement marks another step convention I repeated our position A 50-50 draw held during Convention raised $762 for the toward our goal of a predictable that our proposal to bring the scholarship fund. province’s share to 50 per cent in long-term revenue sharing Donations to the Fund can be made by phone, 306-337-2521 or 2006 and to 60 per cent in 2008 is program. toll free 1-877-779-4723; by email, [email protected]; or reasonable. I also stated that our online at www.uregina.ca/campaign/giving. Two days before the convention proposal is a positive alternative began the Premier shuffled his to the illegal withholding of Education was a lifelong passion for Badham, who received a Cabinet, moving Government school taxes, a practice that Bachelor of Arts from the University of Regina and a Bachelor of Relations Minister Len Taylor to SUMA cannot support. Education from the University of Saskatchewan, before obtaining Health, and moving Finance a Master of Education from Wayne State University in Michigan. Minister Harry Van Mulligan into Although many of us had gathered in late January to Badham had a 31-year career in education, both as a mathematics Government Relations. During teacher and a principal and vice-principal in Regina high schools. the convention I had the celebrate the life of our friend opportunity to thank Minister and colleague, Mike Badham, the Badham was serving in his fifth term as the City Councillor for Taylor for his good work over the convention gave many more of us Ward 1 at the time of his death, at the age of 64. For more past two years, and to welcome an opportunity to share a moment information on the Mike Badham Scholarship Fund for our new Minister to the GR of silence in his honour, and to Education, contact Darlene Freitag, External Relations, portfolio. I am glad to have the view photos depicting all facets University of Regina, 585-4446. opportunity to do so again in this of his remarkable life. I am column. privileged to have known and worked with Mike.
My first experience of a SUMA us a chance to network with our convention as your Executive new minister, Harry Van Director is still fresh in my mind Mulligan. as I write this. Of course, I had Elsewhere in this issue, President attended conventions before as a Don talks about the Premier’s municipal government employee. announcement of additional However, being involved in the revenue sharing funding and the planning and preparing for an $32 million Community Share event of this size, and then seeing 2006 program. As significant it play out from behind the as these are, for me, one of the scenes, is a very different highlights of the Premier’s experience. It was exhilarating, speech was his recognition of demanding, tiring, and in the end, what we have been saying for a very satisfying experience. many months; that urban That the convention went well is municipal governments need “Are you sure these are my ad-libs?” Convention Chair Terr Alm received to the credit of the members of more support from the provincial regular updates to his notes during his visits to the office on-site. the Organizing Committee led by and federal governments in order Terry Alm, and to the SUMA to create the livable, sustainable 200 - 2222 - 13th Avenue office staff, many of whom took communities we all desire. Regina, SK S4P 3M7 on new roles and extra During his speech Premier Phone (306) 525-3727 Fax (306) 525-4373 responsibilities to ensure the Calvert stated that his [email protected] http://www.suma.org convention would be a success. government is ready to begin I offer my heartfelt thanks to developing an “urban agenda”, The UrbanVoice, published six times per year, is the official newsletter of the them for digging in to overcome which is a major step forward. Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association. Articles, letters and photographs are invited. All material is subject to editing. Subscriptions $18 per year. sometimes difficult circumstances I look forward to working with and for their cheerful, hard work the SUMA Board, the Executive SUMA EXECUTIVE 2004 SUMA DIRECTORS during the hectic last few weeks Committee and Minister Van Mayor Don Schlosser, President Councillor Michael Fougere . . . . . Regina leading up to the convention. Mulligan to develop an urban Mayor Phil DeVos, Vice-President, Cities Councillor Fred Clipsham...... Regina SUMA members can be proud of agenda that positively influences Councillor Randy Goulden . . . . . Yorkton Mayor Allan Earle, Vice-President, Towns the team that works on their provincial policy and funding Mayor Barry Gunther, Vice-President, Mayor Terry Haggart ...... Eastend Villages, Resort Villages and Northern Mayor Sharon Armstrong . . Wynyard behalf in the office. decisions for the benefit of the Municipalities Mayor Gordon Hall. . . . . St. Walburg residents of Saskatchewan’s By good planning or good luck, Alderman Donna Birkmaier . . Saskatoon villages, towns and cities. STAFF Councillor Terry Alm ...... Saskatoon Convention 2006 turned out to be Laurent Mougeot ...... Executive Director Mayor Jim Stiglitz. . . . . Prince Albert Mervyn Norton ...... Senior Policy Analyst an opportunity to say “Thank We kicked off the year with an Councillor Dawn Luhning . . . Moose Jaw Brenda Oliver . . Manager - Member Services You” to our former Minister, Len exciting convention pointing us Mayor Rolly Zimmer ...... Tisdale Cam Baker ...... Policy Analyst Mayor Erhard Poggemiller Kerrobert Taylor, for his dedicated work in new directions. I expect the Michelle Paetsch ...... Manager - Mayor Dave McCall . . . . Indian Head in the Government Relations rest of the year will be equally Finance and Administration Northern Director...... Joe Hordyski HJ Linnen Associates . . . . Communication portfolio over the past two-and-a- exciting. Services Staff Writers . . . Mervyn Norton, Cam Baker half years. Convention also gave 2 The Voice of Saskatchewan Cities, Towns and Villages March 2006 DAWNING OF A NEW DIRECTION • SUMA CONVENTION 2006 Senator Campbell addresses delegates “We can’t have six per cent Needless to say, Campbell, a During his speech Campbell told property tax increases while former mayor of Vancouver, the delegates he plans to retire to senior governments are having received a sympathetic hearing Dubuc. Having married a surpluses,” was how Senator from SUMA delegates for his Saskatchewan girl, and having Larry Campbell concluded his views on the financial status of come here every year since 1983, keynote speech to the 2006 the three orders of government, there’s so much here that says convention. “When we see senior among other topics he covered “stay”, he stated. However, he governments with huge surpluses during his keynote address. also confided that his greatest while municipalities struggle, “It is critical to recognize that the fear is that Dubuc will not have they have to think about resources that are filling the basic infrastructure that will opportunities lost at the Saskatchewan’s coffers now are allow him to stay. municipal level. I totally agree not renewable,” the Senator said. “Instead of writing communities with the idea of revenue sharing; “It is important that these monies off, we need to ask ‘What can “Regard me as your extra Senator, it’s not about more taxation, but go back into our communities to grow here?’”, he said. because eventually this is where I’m going about sharing what we have.” make them better places to live” to live,” Larry Campbell told delegates. Resolved to see major changes Voting delegates at Convention debate on the Convention floor. the property assessment system quickly resolved to support all 22 as a whole. Another was The key resolution again dealt of the resolutions place before “Requesting Direct Municipal with “Regaining $30 Million as them, including a late addition on Representation in the School a Step Toward a Long-term “Exploring Enhanced Uranium Grant Review Process.” This Revenue Sharing Plan.” Given Refining in Saskatchewan” would require representation the new funding commitments sponsored by the SUMA Board of from the city sector, the town made by Premier Lorne Calvert Directors. This resolution, and village sector and northern earlier at Convention, President following January’s successful municipalities on the committee Don Schlosser won support for a Nuclear Forum sponsored by reviewing the Department of “friendly” amendment to have the SUMA, SARM and the U. of Learning’s Foundation Grant resolution now focus on 2007 Regina, aims to see the Provincial Formula for school boards. instead of 2006. Government create a process to The booklet recording resolution “identify the economic, Other sweeping resolutions outcomes, including minor SUMA Director and Saskatoon City environmental and social impacts include one on “Revamping the amendments, is being sent to Council member Donna Birkmaier as they relate to enhanced Property Assessment System,” municipal offices along with this chaired the Resolutions session during uranium refining” – a challenge asking for a Provincial newsletter, and also posted on the Convention. previewed in the pro and con Government task force to look at SUMA website.
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March 2006 The Voice of Saskatchewan Cities, Towns and Villages 3 DAWNING OF A NEW DIRECTION • SUMA CONVENTION 2006 Reports from the sectors City sector looks to Committee. Currently, the four representatives on the SAMA the future largest cities have a total of six Board of Directors, gave a representatives on the Board, but detailed report on SAMA’s Following a brief recap of both none on the Executive. While operations. Specifically, she Provincial and Federal Cabinet two city mayors now serve on the discussed the income approach changes in the preceding 72 Executive, as President and V-P which will be implemented by hours, city delegates received for Cities, previous Executives SAMA in the future. Mayor further clarification from have not included any city Armstrong addressed several Government Relations Deputy mayors. Any formal adjustments questions regarding future Minister Harvey Brooks about would require a change in SUMA changes to the assessment the funding commitments bylaws. system. announced by Premier Calvert. Brooks emphasized the The Mayor of La Ronge, Joe Hordyski, unconditional nature of the new Town sector shares Revenue sharing, will represent the North on the capital and additional Revenue issues and ideas agreements highlight SUMA Board. Sharing funding, noting that the With SUMA’s Vice President of village sector latter would be again split Towns, Mayor Allan Earle discussions proportionately among city, other The meeting also gave the go- leading the discussion, town urban, rural and northern pools. Revenue Sharing, the Education ahead for further work on the sector delegates discussed issues Tax Coalition, the Clearing the self-insurance file, with the hope Delegates also reviewed such as the Education Tax Path initiative, infrastructure that a plan can be devised which upcoming Convention Coalition, the newly implemented programs, policing and protective offers SUMA members more resolutions, with most discussion Municipalities Act, and the services and the cost of building structured and stable insurance focused on the newly-added pitch SUMA/SARM partnership on and operating recreational costs. for “Exploring Enhanced Clearing the path. facilities all came up for Uranium Refining in Concerns regarding the fairness discussion. In the Open Dialogue Saskatchewan,” which was of the Foundation Operating portion of the meeting much of Northern sector addressed by Saskatoon Grant for schools were raised, the discussion focused on the meeting Councillor Terry Alm on behalf reliance on “permanent” and SUMA was urged to become The main item of business was of the SUMA Board. populations as the main factor in part of the ongoing review the election of a new distributing Revenue Sharing City representatives also process. Questions regarding the representative from the north to funding. A significant amount of discussed the need for close onerous nature of environmental the SUMA Board of Directors. discussion focused on finding coordination between the City assessments for proposed President and Chairman of New other sets of criteria suitable for Mayors’ Caucus (CMC) and the infrastructure programs were North Dale McAuley chaired the specific circumstances. For SUMA Executive. This is discussed. meeting, which brought two currently achieved with Yorkton example, property assessment SUMA representatives indicated nominations, Mayor of La Ronge Mayor Phil DeVos serving both values might be an alternative that they will be pursuing the Joe Hordyski and Councilor Greg as SUMA Vice-President for criterion for resort communities, long-standing issue of the 25% Ross from Pinehouse. Cities and Chair of the CMC. but not for other villages. hold-back fee on fine revenue Although a majority of delegates After short speeches from the generated in communities, as Barry Gunther, SUMA’s Vice did not support the idea of candidates. Chief Executive well at looking at other sources President, Villages, reported that allowing only city mayors to Officer Al Loke supervised the whereby municipalities can while some municipalities have become candidates for the Cities’ election, which saw Mayor generate revenue. An interesting good working agreements on V-P position (in Executive Hordyski elected by a close idea regarding succession asset sharing, staff sharing, elections at next year’s margin. planning for municipal landfill sharing, etc., with one or Convention), it was administrators and employees more other municipalities, most Following his election Mayor acknowledged that any Vice- was proposed, and requests were do not have good working Hordyski responded to concerns President for Cities should attend made for SUMA to play a role in agreements in place. Gunther from the floor that the per-capita CMC meetings. facilitating recruitment and agreed that SUMA would funding of the Community Share Also considered, without clear retention best practices to help identify as many strong existing 2006 program will not make resolution, was whether provision alleviate an impending skills agreements between or among much difference in northern should be made for any CMC shortage in the municipal sector. municipalities as it could find. communities. Hordyski said he chair to have a position on the These agreements will be shared will advocate for a different Finally, Mayor Sharon SUMA Board or Executive as best practices other funding formula for northern Armstrong, one of SUMA’s municipalities can follow. Saskatchewan.
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4 The Voice of Saskatchewan Cities, Towns and Villages March 2006 DAWNING OF A NEW DIRECTION • SUMA CONVENTION 2006 Highlights from education sessions New directions crack down on the sale of stolen Developing an information base is one of in local policing property, specific chronic the challenges of getting the most value offender programs such as the from a Geographic Information System. Always a SUMA favorite, vehicle theft strategy in Regina, “Once you have your GIS system running, delegates packed the room to hear the Project Hope initiative to sit your Mayor down and tell him to pour Murray Sawatsky and Dave Horn address the grown crystal meth everything he knows into the system, so from Saskatchewan Justice discuss issue and the additional 29 it can be saved for as long as you need new directions in local policing. officers to fulfill the 1999 it,” advised Todd Stone of CGIS Spatial election promise of providing an Solutions during the new directions in Horn, the Director for the Safer municipal software session. Communities and Neighborhoods additional 200 officers. (SCAN) Investigation Unit, gave an in-depth presentation on how New directions demand side, including water that program has been highly in watershed conservation. Integrated water effective in cleaning up problem management is really about neighborhoods around the management having a business plan for how water efficiency in Provincial province. SCAN’s aim is to “We have some of the best data we allocate water services.” buildings and parks. “We don’t want to start selling water as a improve community safety by graveyards in Canada, but we One of the “biggest root causes” resource, but the price should targeting and, if necessary, very rarely turn that data into of our problems, Hanley told reflect the true costs of treatment shutting down residential and knowledge,” said Dr. Terry delegates, is that we have an and distribution,” Will said. commercial buildings and land Hanley, Director of Monitoring economic system independent of that are habitually used for illegal and Assessment at the Sask. ecological systems. “In Alberta, Testimonials to the value of activities such as producing, Watershed Authority (SWA). water management works municipal involvement in selling or using illegal drugs, However, he shared with because it is being championed watershed planning were prostitution, solvent abuse or the delegates the ground-breaking, by the economic departments,” provided by Kennedy Mayor unlawful sale and consumption of just released “State of the he said. Elmer Molnar and John Van alcohol. When the investigation Watershed Reporting Frame- Eaton, Chair of the Pipestone Gord Will, Manager of Policy unit is called, they look at the work,” a 93-page full-colour Watershed Advisory Committee. and Legislation at SWA, gave reliability of the claim, determine report available from SWA. “If we can all cheer for the Sask. further emphasis to a soon to be if it warrants further investigation, Roughriders,” Van Eaton urged, Dr. Hanley observed that released Water Conservation and then, if necessary, receive an “what’s wrong with working “Saskatchewan does really well Plan, noting that “government order of the court to shut the together on watershed issues?” property down or serve notice to on the supply side but we’ve only needs to lead by example,” the landlord. Although Horn recently started looking at the including greater attention to Continued on Page 6 states that there have been more unfounded than founded claims, the program has been highly effective. Awards highlight President’s Banquet Awards presentations were Keith Schneider received the member of SUMA’s Board of With an increase in gang activity centre stage during the Scoop Lewry Award, both for his Directors. After accepting the in the province, there is a President’s Banquet on 13 years an SUMA’s Executive award Hall recounted how his provision within the legislation Tuesday evening during Director and for his previous earlier career took him away that can allow investigators to target “fortified buildings” that convention. Several municipal career working for the provincial from Saskatchewan. Of his cause public safety concerns and employees received government in the municipal return he said, “I came back to remove such fortifications. Meritorious Awards for their area. In receiving the award this province because I needed Fortifications can include bullet- service to their employers, and Schneider particularly noted the to give back to this place to proof glass, explosive resistant for their volunteer activities in importance of his family’s which I owed so much.” materials, armor to reinforce their communities. Honourary support during his career. awards were given to a number doors, and bars on windows or The Life Membership Award of municipal politicians who doors. Horn’s presentation went to Gordon Lee Hall, Mayor have served in elected office included before-and-after pictures of St. Walburg and currently a of problem properties and for 20 years or more. neighborhoods that have been fully restored in the relatively short timeframe the legislation has been around. To report a property to the SCAN unit call 1-866-51-SAFER (72337). Gordon Lee Hall, SUMA Director and The session was rounded out with Mayor of St. Walburg, received the Executive Director Murray SUMA Life Membership Award for Sawatsky from the Law his many years of service to his Enforcement Services branch of community and to SUMA. “I accept Saskatchewan Justice. Sawatsky this life membership with the gave a brief run-down of some Keith Schneider received SUMA's Scoop understanding that the glass is still initiatives underway in the Lewry Award for his years of service to half full, and I intend to keep on,” department such as the Pawn the municipal sector with the provincial Elaine Brodie of Burstall was one of Hall told delegates at the President’s Property Recording System to government and with SUMA. the Meritorious Award recipients. Banquet.
March 2006 The Voice of Saskatchewan Cities, Towns and Villages 5 DAWNING OF A NEW DIRECTION • SUMA CONVENTION 2006
EDUCATION SESSIONS and he discussed some of these continued from Page 5 new approaches before fielding questions from delegates. Questions focused on whether regulators are going overboard in New directions in restricting shoreline developments in cottage country. Dr. Hanley energy conservation had argued that “we emphasize Money is the great motivator large point-source impacts on when it comes to making changes watersheds and miss non-point to encourage energy conservation, sources like agricultural run-off.” said Terry White of the But he noted that a Manitoba province’s office of energy During the Disaster Planning session a study had estimated that conservation and Will Oddie of agricultural sources contributed representative from Saskatchewan Kelln Solar in the education Health said governments use the 1919 only 12% of the pollution session on that topic. flowing into Lake Winnipeg. “Installing a solar water heating flu pandemic for disaster planning “The vast majority of our lakes in “It’s important to take energy system by a swimming pool offers the purposes, but viruses can spread more fastest payback on a community’s quickly now because cities are larger, Saskatchewan are in good conservation measures for investment,” Will Oddie of Kelln Solar families have more contacts with other shape,” Hanley concluded. philosophical and environmental reasons, but the motivator is told delegates in the Energy people in their daily activities and travel money,” said White. “For example, Conservation education session. is more common. New directions in new, better lights installed in the water technology SARM office will be paid back in in the production of greenhouse heating its pool by two-thirds last four years, and there’s no 60- Sean Bayer, Approvals Engineer gases and air pollution. year. Although the Town of cycle hum,” he added. Assiniboia was only able to for Sask. Environment, told Oddie lamented the current state operate its system for five days, delegates that “there cannot be During his talk White noted that of the housing construction boiler operation was reduced. any more secrets when it comes to the Town of Bengough saved industry, stating that from an protecting the public” from threats $5,000 from its swimming pool energy perspective, the houses to water quality.” He also costs last season by installing a being built now are appalling. New directions observed that “the buzzword these solar heating system. He expects “We know that energy is getting days is a multiple-barrier approach another three communities will more expensive, but the houses in tourism to protecting drinking water.” install the system this year. He being built now will need a “If we’re not aware of what there also demonstrated how a thermal- Bayer reviewed the new retrofit in 10 to 15 years. is to see and do in the province, sensing camera can identify Municipalities can take leadership Waterworks System Assessment then we can’t tell our friends and where energy is leaving a in this area by building some requirements which came out of relatives who are visiting what building, making it easier to renewables into every new the Provincial Government’s there is to do and see,” West choose energy-saving actions. development. As a simple Central Tourism’s Mark England Drinking Water Strategy, put in example, smart design would told more than 150 delegates place after the experiences of Will Oddie urged delegates to allow for future renewable energy attending the New Directions in Walkerton, Ontario in 2000 and focus on energy efficiency, installations such as solar panels.” Tourism session. North Battleford, Saskatchewan noting that one dollar spent on in 2001. He noted that the future efficiency is worth from three to Regarding solar pools, Oddie said A rapidly growing economic would likely see different water five dollars in energy generation the payback in energy savings is opportunity, tourism destinations treatment methods applied in costs. There are also the hidden five to seven years. Bengough, he such as the Temple Gardens different parts of the province, costs of fossil fuel use, he added, noted, cut its energy bill for Mineral Spa in Moose Jaw, or the T-Rex Discovery Center near Eastend are extremely important to our communities. But if you have friends and relatives come into town, do you know where to take them? The five tourism regions and the two major cities have banded together to put in place the Resident Awareness Campaign that will be launched later this year. Saskatchewan Tourism’s Joe Chad showed delegates how their communities can participate in the program by purchasing discounted advertisements in forms ranging from small magazine ads to massive billboards on major thoroughfares. But it’s more than just advertising, says Chad, “Listen to your customers. The clientèle for fishing camps has changed over the last 20 years from guys who maybe did a bit of fishing; or maybe not, to family groups looking for a getaway experience.” It’s all about featuring the might and beauty of Saskatchewan’s tourism destinations says Kerri Martin, Marketing Manager from the Southwest Tourism Region. Martin is in charge of the cooperative marketing program in the southwest, whereby communities can, by participating in the cooperative, have a portion of their marketing costs covered through a small grant. Hoping to ride the wave of momentum created by Saskatchewan’s Centennial, the Southwest region is aggressively pursuing a cooperative marketing approach this year. For more information on how your community can become involved, go to the Saskatchewan Tourism website at www.sasktourism.com.
6 The Voice of Saskatchewan Cities, Towns and Villages March 2006 DAWNING OF A NEW DIRECTION • SUMA CONVENTION 2006 New trade show venue draws praise By Terry Alm, 2006 Convention Delegate evaluations were also Organizing Committee generally positive, although a few suggested the trade show break “The best municipal trade show on Monday afternoon made the we’ve ever been involved with,” day unnecessarily long. Other is how one long-time exhibitor evaluations noted that the coffee described the 2006 version of the areas were easily accessible and annual show. Exhibitors and well-organized. Having the entire delegates agreed, the show show on one floor was another offered plenty of room, making it positive feature noted by many easy for exhibitors to show their delegates in their evaluations. The SaskTel-sponsored Internet Café was a popular stop for many delegates. wares, and for delegates to circulate through the trade show The 2006 SUMA Trade Show area. was a tremendous success; our organizing staff and all of the 168 “Congratulations to you for an exhibitors are to be commended outstanding job,” another for an outstanding contribution to exhibitor wrote on the evaluation our 101st convention. Let’s build sheet handed out by the SUMA on this year’s success and aim to staff who organized the show. exceed it in 2007.
When he wasn't busy receiving the Scoop Lewry Award, former SUMA executive Shauna Steffensen (right) and Tuana Kupiec fielded questions about SUMA's director Keith Schneider was playing with the big toys in the trade show. group benefits program in the trade show area.
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March 2006 The Voice of Saskatchewan Cities, Towns and Villages 7 DAWNING OF A NEW DIRECTION • SUMA CONVENTION 2006 Recycling task force finalizes new directions SUMA’s Task Force on Regional the federal New Deal Waste Recycling reported to infrastructure program. Convention on key achievements Although the Task Force has and recommended directions in completed its mandate, the their Final Report. The Task Environment Committee of the Force had been mandated two SUMA Board of Directors will years ago to look at province- continue to monitor progress and wide solutions to waste recycling involve council members in challenges, including convention policy development on an “as resolutions calling for programs needed” basis. More for paper product stewardship, immediately, the Task Force won glass recycling and household support from Convention hazardous wastes. delegates for a final resolution After helping to gain $700,000 in that “until a Multi-Material one-time funding from the Recycling Program is established, Provincial Government last year Sask. Environment should fully Representatives at the various booths on "Recycling Way" fielded many to cover paper recycling deficits questions during the trade show. compensate regional authorities of regional waste management and municipalities which recycle authorities, the Task Force creation of separate programs for position of the Task Force was paper, plastics, glass or tin, based pushed for the planning of a waste paint and computers that all viable municipal on the collection data compiled in Multi-Material Recycling (“e-waste”), both scheduled to be recycling operations should be conjunction with the Assoc. of Program for paper, plastics, glass launched this year. accommodated under any new Regional Waste Management and tin. An Advisory Committee programs, including funding Authorities of Sask. Regional cooperation was also was set up last fall by Sask. programs, but regional (ARWMAS).” promoted by the Task Force, both Environment to try to meet their cooperation would enable within and beyond the The full report of the Task Force commitment to have a program municipalities to fully access incorporated regional waste can be found on the SUMA plan by this April. The Task their allocated capital funding management authorities. The website at www.suma.org. Force also advised on the under the “regional” criteria of New directions in community development Although it’s now over 100 years resulted in the creation of over 30 old, Saskatchewan is still possible industry initiatives. relatively young in comparison to Phase Two involves most of the continent. As the implementing four of the global economy changes and our initiatives, currently underway. province is forced to adapt, we’re Part and parcel with the future always prompted to look to new economic success of our commu- directions in developing our nities is the rejuvenation of the communities. population base. Many of our Doug Howorko and Sandra Blyth communities have been shrinking were up first to discuss Action for the past few decades. James Southwest, an innovative strategy Carr, President and CEO of the that re-thinks the way that Business Council of Manitoba, communities in the region view says that immigration will once Doug Howorko, Sandra Blyth and Jim Carr discussed actions communities can take development. Formed as a broad again play a key role in to spur development and attract new residents. coalition of business, local Saskatchewan’s prosperity. governments, tourism, and Carr discussed the Manitoba over the final granting of a visa Imagine moving somewhere that regional economic development Provincial Nominee Program and all the other health checks, you have never seen before, don’t authorities, Action Southwest (PNP) which was signed in 1998 but the Province has control over know the people, everyone looks ventured to formulate a plan for between the Province and the selection process. different, practices a different development, recognizing that a religion, has strange social Ottawa. A similar program has A successful immigration new project in an adjacent area practices, speaks a different recently been announced in program needs to have the holds a whole host of benefits for language and has a long Saskatchewan and Minister Pat “political sting” removed and all communities within the area. established community. Couple Atkinson welcomed the Carr suggests getting that feeling of isolation with the Four committees examined the discussion. The PNP allows the municipalities involved in the knowledge that none of those region’s strengths in energy, provinces to recruit immigrants process is a good starting point. people want you there and it’s a manufacturing, agribusiness and according to their particular This way, the communities recipe for failure, says Carr. tourism, and then developed economic and demographic themselves can determine what Minister Atkinson, who is strategies and action plans to realities. The Federal skill set and cultural background planning on welcoming over begin development. This process Government maintains control is necessary for integration in the 5000 new immigrants in the community. In addition, being coming years, agrees, and says involved in the immigration that projecting Saskatchewan as a recruitment process can be welcoming community for perceived as part of an overall immigrants will make all the strategy, such as Action difference to the new program. Southwest, to invigorate a particular community or region. Much like the beginning of the 20th century, Saskatchewan is Aside from “hard” infrastructure showing signs of prosperity. In needs such as housing, English order to build on that momentum, instruction, good public transit our cities, towns and villages that and competitive wages, a want to succeed will need to look welcoming community is perhaps beyond our borders to re-energize the most important element to our population. As parting words, recruiting and retaining Carr advised “Open up your newcomers. Carr says that before minds to immigration…You a community can get involved in (Saskatchewan) have every immigration, it must be prepared reason to be proud of what you to accept people that are have built; let’s share it with the different. People will not succeed world.” Healthy Living Services Minister Graham Addley answered questions about in the community if they feel addition treatment services during the Dialogue on Health. isolated.
8 The Voice of Saskatchewan Cities, Towns and Villages March 2006 DAWNING OF A NEW DIRECTION • SUMA CONVENTION 2006 Leadership forum Leadership is made up of many team. It’s going to cost money to things, the speakers at the do it, but it’s going to cost you a Leadership Forum told delegates hell of a lot more if you don’t,” on Tuesday afternoon at SUMA’s Davidson stated. 101st annual convention. In large Regina City Manager Bob Linner part, they agreed, it boils down to noted a remark that Davidson had accountability and taking made earlier in the day, that there responsibility. does not have to be malice for “Accountability is basically the there to be failure. Sometimes, he chain of command,” said Bruce said, managers and their elected Regina City Manager Bob Linner told Davidson of Concerned leaders look too much in the rear- “Dealing with non-potable water adds the Leadership Forum that mistakes Walkerton Citizens, as he view mirror, and are not willing three or four hours to your daily based on judgement are acceptable. described the breakdown of to stay the course to implement routine.” – Bruce Davidson, “Mistakes caused by dishonesty or Concerned Walkerton Citizens lack of fidelity are not acceptable.” accountability in the Walkerton what they think are the right tainted water tragedy. “It was the policies. blind leading the blind, and it Linner said that while the “What are you going to do with “This is not building an undermined confidence in any challenges facing local that commitment? You’re going environment that will attract the government service. In the case government leaders have to be asked to make choices. I best and the brightest to public of operating a water service, changed, the leadership role has think we need to step back and service,” said Linner. “Standing leadership is achieved through not fundamentally changed. He ask ourselves, ‘What are we on ground where you have to say acquiring knowledge and described the New Deal funding doing to ensure we’re making no is difficult, but you have to adopting best practices to develop flowing to municipalities as a decisions wisely?’” say no.” a professional water management statement of commitment. Dialogue with Environment Minister “I often think of Saskatchewan as waste paint and computer Wearing his other new hat as one big municipality,” said new recycling programs, the Minister responsible for Sask Environment Minister John commitment to make some Power, Nilson was receptive to Nilson. “We’re a community announcement by April on plans further exploring co-generation with one big global community. for a Multi-Material Recycling opportunities for electrical power, Municipalities are our leaders in Program (for paper, plastics, but unreceptive to the suggestion acting locally. You prod us, and glass and tin) and the review of that Saskatchewan’s rate review we’ll prod you.” Delegates whether urban parks in Weyburn process is inadequate. He said prodded Minister Nilson with and North Battleford should that clean coal technology almost two dozen questions. receive Provincial funding. Other seemed better suited to Several were answered by his responses acknowledged that Saskatchewan’s situation than senior officials since he had had persistent problems had still not nuclear power generation. He only one weekend to read their been resolved, including acknowledged that climate briefing books. inconsistent enforcement of change issues and watershed landfill regulations and management practices were areas Most responses simply confirmed assessments on leased properties deserving greater attention. John Nilson faced many questions in initiatives already underway, his first dialogue session as within Provincial parks. including soon to be launched Environment Minister. Dialogue with the Minster of Rural Development Two days before the opening of Serby commended SUMA for the 101st SUMA Convention, the partnering with SARM on the Provincial Cabinet Shuffle saw Clearing the Path initiative. He Deputy Premier Clay Serby said the Sector Specific Planning maintain his current role, how- approach, along with streamlined ever with a slight change to his regulations and the attitude department’s title. Now the enhancement the report Minister of Regional Economic recommends, will be augmented and Cooperative Development, by an enhanced REDA system. During the jammed-to-the-doors Government Relations dialogue session, the Serby made it quite clear that He also noted a growing trend to new Minister, Harry Van Mulligan, heard about the cultural and language enhancing the current Regional viewing economic growth in difficulties doctors from South Africa face in writing the assessment of their Economic Development Authority neighboring communities as credentials. Van Mulligan states that while Saskatchewan has had overall (REDA) system will be a top positive, rather than as competi- success in recruiting more doctors in recent years, less than one-fifth of priority in the coming months. tion. Serby jokingly offered a them have settled in rural areas. Deputy Minister position to one Serby is also hopeful that delegate who said, “A job in additional dollars will accompany Saskatchewan is a job in the new title, particularly the Saskatchewan. I don’t care if it’s REDA Enhancement Fund, which in La Ronge or in Maple Creek.” has been virtually eliminated over the past few years by budget cuts. Retaining skilled labour and This fund was intended to provide highways were other topics “seed money,” said Serby, and in raised, prompting one delegate to order to be effective it will need a suggest that “the road is so bad, “significant injection.” Serby also people can’t get out (of town). made it clear that this fund was Maybe we have to quit fixing the not intended to build infrastruc- roads to keep people here!” to a ture, but to provide marketing and chorus of laughter. Serby said feasibility studies. He suggested that he has heard the concerns municipalities interested in and will be suggesting budget “As far as I’m concerned, multinational money is welcome in Saskatchewan, and the more the merrier,” Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline told economic development increases in his department. He delegates in the Industry and Resources dialogue session. collaborate with their local also said that there are currently REDAs to determine strategic over 200 economic development The Great Daylight Savings Time debate briefly flared during the session areas to spend the newly project proposals on his desk and when a delegate from Nipawin urged the Minister to consider switching to DST. Another delegate vigorously shook her head. Cline suggested the two announced Community Share he is encouraged by what he sees reach a consensus and then come to him with a request. 2006 funding. in the proposals.
March 2006 The Voice of Saskatchewan Cities, Towns and Villages 9 DAWNING OF A NEW DIRECTION • SUMA CONVENTION 2006 Cash fuels good will hunting at Cabinet Bearpit Maybe it was the injection to the Ottawa to meet with Prime revenue sharing pool, maybe it Minister Stephen Harper’s was the one-time capital cash Cabinet, with municipalities bag, or maybe it was just a little playing a key role. Although the carryover from the Board Premier didn’t commit to Mayor Hospitality Night the evening Fiacco’s proposal on the spot, he before, but the 2006 SUMA was warm to the idea, and would Convention Bearpit was a little discuss it further with his Cabinet less confrontational than in years colleagues. Municipalities made past. Delegates had their chance great strides with the previous to ask questions of the recently Paul Martin government, and reshuffled Cabinet on Wednesday Mayor Fiacco stated that a morning with a particular focus meeting is necessary as soon as on Saskatchewan’s transportation possible to maintain the infrastructure. Highways and momentum achieved in recent Transportation Minister Eldon years. The Bearpit session always draws a full complement of reporters and cameras. Lautermilch said rejuvenating our In keeping with the plenary highways system is always a session New Directions in challenge due to the amount of Community Development, Moose roads the Province needs to Jaw’s Jim Carr asked Minister maintain. He did indicate that the Pat Atkinson what municipalities Highways budget may get can do to help them work faster additional attention this year. to attract immigrants to Regina Mayor Pat Fiacco Saskatchewan. He also asked suggested to the Premier that a what measures the Province is Saskatchewan team travel to taking to certify immigrants seeking professional credentials more quickly. Atkinson said a New Finance Minister Andrew Thomson listened, but wasn't giving anything away major contribution would be to about future spending plans, during the Bearpit. provide warm and welcoming municipalities and to keep an Cabinet, and it was déjà vu all Other topics raised were a open mind to immigration. Along over again: no special rates for proposed PST reduction, crystal the same line was a suggestion municipal recreation facilities. meth, closing loopholes in pawn that the Province enact the The Minister suggested taking an shop legislation, removing the recommendations from the energy conservation approach mandatory retirement age and McArthur Report on Skills such as high efficiency furnaces, enhancing cooperation and Training in order to address the electronic controls, and solar information sharing between province’s shortage of skilled heating. Wilkie Mayor Wally Provincial departments. Premier labour. Lorenz suggested that a higher Calvert closed the session by The long-standing issue of rate for municipalities selling thanking the delegates for their Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister reducing energy rates for power into the grid would be one interest and commitment to Glenn Hagel said the province plans to recreation facilities such as way to recover such costs. The public service, saying “We’re in build on the positive momentum skating rinks and swimming Minister committed to look into this together; we all represent the created during Centennial year. pools was once again put to the the suggestion. same people.” Music, fun and games on Mardi Gras night
Hold ’em! Faces have been deleted to protect the guilty. Comedian Roman Danylo provided the words, while Battleford Mayor Gail Sack provided the matching gestures...sort of.
“Oops, there goes the New Deal money!’ – Good thing Mardi Gras Can’t have Mardi Gras without music! featured play money.
10 The Voice of Saskatchewan Cities, Towns and Villages March 2006 Recently, the Saskatchewan capital of Saskatchewan”, having Communications Network has created 90 jobs in the past five been airing an hour-long A Tale of Three Towns years. It plans to create another documentary chronicling the 75 jobs in the next five years. actions of three rural Myren is excited that a local Saskatchewan communities to 10-year strategic plan to make the snapped up the 100 available fabrication company is branching revitalize themselves. The resolution a reality. The town shares in the Agri-Pork out into repairing railcars, and documentary was produced by became the national centre of Co-operative within 48 hours, recently landed a contract from Saskatoon-based Juxtapose attention during CBC television’s Hartman recalls. There are now the Saskatchewan Grain Car Productions. Hockey Day In Canada in 2002. four feeder barns in the area It has achieved other important around Leroy. Corporation. The company is also “We heard about several small successes. negotiating a repair contract with communities fighting for survival When the local hospital was the Farmer Rail Car Coalition. and wanted to tell their stories,” The town and the Cypress Hills closed and slated for demolition, The town also moved in and says director McLeay Upshall. Regional Economic Development the town purchased the building renovated a local motel, and “The residents value their small- Authority have partnered to place and converted it to an assisted Myren can’t believe how busy it town lifestyle, and have a business development officer in living residence for seniors. The has been. He’s also proud that reinvented their communities the town. The federal government community was also the only one Ogema this summer received a with such a contagious attitude, it chose Shaunavon for a regional in the province to receive funding national sustainable community sparks the imagination.” service centre, which is located in a few years ago to bring high award from Communities in the same building with the speed internet service to town, Bloom, an award which is not Upshall had originally intended business development office, the and also recently installed a tied to community size. to profile three communities each tourism office, the local chamber reverse osmosis water treatment with a population under 500, but of commerce and Cypress Agri- system. Myren also boasts that his town when Mayor Sharon Dickie of Energy, which is planning to has the original “Corner Gas”, a “Now there’s a greater demand Shaunavon heard about the build an ethanol plant nearby. community-restored British- project, she convinced the for water, so next year we’ll add American Oil company service company to visit her community. “It was a huge thing drawing all another cell to our sewage lagoon station from 1925 that draws After all, Town Council passed a of those together in one place,” system. Then we’ll be broke!,” many visitors. Other heritage- resolution in 2001 stating the says Dickie. “The Shaunavon Co- Hartman laughs. related plans include restoration intent to “opt out of the decline op is building a $2.5 million of a CPR station at the south end of rural Saskatchewan.” shopping centre, so we have Corner Gas First? of Main Street, complete with a many good things going on here. replica wooden water tower. I call it a re-birthing.” Ogema, too, has benefited from A Boost from Hockey the expansion of Saskatchewan’s Eventually, the town hopes to hog industry. Although a local have a train shuttling visitors “We knew once we got the Fire Prompts from the station to the Deep producer and director to come hog operation wasn’t mentioned Revitalization in the documentary, Ogema South Pioneer Museum Village down here, we’d get them,” just north of town. Dickie says. She was right. Mayor Morris Hartman of Leroy Mayor Wayne Myren says it is a Besides Ogema and Leroy, the figures it was his town’s “can- major player in the local “You also worry about documentary “Resurrection” also do” attitude that attracted economy. It is one element in the maintaining what you have, but profiles Shaunavon. Upshall’s attention. For example, strategic plan that the community for the first time in 50 years we when a nearby hog barn was developed in 2002. have more kids in Kindergarten Following the passage of the destroyed by fire a few years ago, “It gives us a more targeted than in Grade 12, which is a good resolution, representatives from Stomp Pork Farms invited local sign for our community,” Myren many organizations and approach to where we’re going,” investors to participate in the Myren says. In fact, Ogema now says. institutions in Shaunavon and rebuilding process. Investors area worked together to create a bills itself as the “Job creation
Watching the Numbers in Moose Jaw Moose Jaw City Council recently role in taking positions for or communiplex operating at the passed a motion to provide $10 against major decisions such as level stated in the business plan. million toward the construction this? If the revenues/attendance of a new communiplex, which numbers do not hit the target, the DL: As a City Councilor I have would replace the aging Civic business plan doesn’t work, and two tools when looking at Centre as the prime recreation hence there is a possible increase additional expenditures in our complex in the Band City. The in cost to the City’s operating capital and operating budgets - fund raising committee budget in terms of operating the will we have to reduce services established to help make the new facility. The Warriors have or increase taxes. This is the communiplex a reality hopes to indicated the team wants a new biggest project that Moose Jaw bring in another five million facility, and our administration has ever begun planning for, and dollars in private and corporate will work diligently with them to I’m happy to be a part of it. donations. The committee will ensure the team can pay the also be discussing funding I will be watching the numbers rental fee. options with the provincial and very closely with regard to Moose Jaw City Councilor Dawn Attendance is an uncertain Luhning federal governments. revenue projections, because its number. The expenses for the major user, the Moose Jaw SUMA Director and Moose Jaw new facility are fixed. You Warriors, will be operating on a beneficial to your work with City Councilor Dawn Luhning cannot say for certain that completely different economic SUMA? will be “watching the numbers attendance will increase and be model than they are now. very closely” because the City maintained. I hope it will, but it’s DL: Any kind of planning or Revenues, that currently stay will also have a large stake in the not something I can rely on in my challenges involved in with the Warriors as tenants in proposed project. In a recent position as a Councilor. developing a community project interview, Luhning talked about the Civic Centre, will in the new will be beneficial to my role with the proposal and her role in it as facility be used to operate the There are many due diligences SUMA. Our experiences in a member of City Council. new facility and in other words, that have to be looked into. For Moose Jaw can be used by other kept by the City of Moose Jaw to example, the communiplex plan communities to determine what UV: How do you pay for this operate the new facility. also includes a curling venue and to do, or, what not to do. kind of project, given that Moose the City’s curling operation Another difference for the Jaw also has other projects currently receives a subsidy of UV: Wayne Gretzky wrote a Warriors is the increase in their coming in the near future? approximately $50,000 from the letter in support of the new rental fee. The Warriors currently City in the Hillcrest Sports communiplex. Are you going to DL: There are a number of pay $24,000 to the City and the Centre facility. The business plan invite him to back up his support projects that need to be budgeted new facility indicates an increase indicates a break-even operation. with a donation? for, and so our capital budget is in that cost to $130,000. The The curling community has to be strained. We will face a difficult business plan for the new DL: The fund raising committee prepared to forgo that subsidy budget planning process early in communiplex also predicts a 50 will make the decision in this from taxpayers in a new facility. 2006, but I don’t foresee it being per cent increase in attendance at regard, but having been involved anything Moose Jaw can’t Warrior games in the new UV: Do you think that being in a fund raising campaign handle. facility. These attendance involved in the process of seeing before, I do know that if you ask, all they can say is no! If you UV: As a member of City numbers are a crucial stepping a major investment like this don’t ask, you never know! Council, how do you see your stone to having this new through to completion will be
March 2006 The Voice of Saskatchewan Cities, Towns and Villages 11 Leaders explore Saskatchewan’s nuclear future Over 200 urban, rural, business environmental monitoring, and surveyed are in favor of and government leaders Northern people are employed at expanding the industry. The congregated in Regina January the mines. numbers split dramatically, 16th to 18th in a historic however, when it comes to the Attendees hoping for an discussion about the possibilities concept of nuclear waste immediate expansion of the of expanding Saskatchewan’s disposal. industry had their hopes dashed already booming nuclear when Cameco President Jerry Ann Coxworth, a renowned industry. The conference – Grandy stated that a nuclear environmentalist and scientist, Exploring Saskatchewan’s power plant supplying power to warned those in attendance that Nuclear Future – was hosted by the province is not a realistic there are very negative health SUMA, SARM and the John Young, Mayor of Shellbrook, proposal, at least in the short concerns relating to nuclear waste University of Regina. during one of the Q&A sessions at term. SaskPower Vice president disposal and that as a province, the conference. “We set out to provide a venue Rick Patrick further confirmed we should be very cautious when for frank and open discussion this projection, stating that considering any expansion of our presentation is “industry-run”, about what has typically been a current reactors are designed for current uranium activities. Moore contends that nuclear very hot topic,” said SUMA much larger consumption levels Coxworth says there is no proven power is the only way we can President Don Schlosser, “I’m than Saskatchewan requires. A method to deal with spent nuclear effectively reduce greenhouse gas very confident that the people suggestion that Saskatchewan fuel, and there is very real emissions. Moore also criticized leaving here today have a very could build a plant and sell potential for the uranium we Greenpeace as extremist, saying firm grasp of the realities of the excess power to the Alberta tar produce to be used in the that – despite his actions in his industry. Sure, there are things sand projects or to the United manufacture of both weapons of younger years – he would rather that may not be realistic for the States was also rejected, because mass destruction and small arms focus on consensus building than province today, but this Saskatchewan’s current power production. Malcolm Wilson on confrontation. discussion allows those in grid is unable to transmit the from the University of Regina attendance to be better informed large amount of energy that outlined a plan to use current The nuclear debate will continue, as to what we can do in the would be produced. oilfield technology to dispose especially with uranium mining future, and the positive and of the spent fuel. The method expanding at a relatively rapid Public acceptance is a key negative aspects of expanding the preferred by the Nuclear Waste rate in Saskatchewan. However, requirement to any expansion of industry.” Management Association is to presenters at the convention the nuclear industry. Those in hollow out spaces in the urged Saskatchewan to approach Saskatchewan has benefited attendance at the banquet heard Canadian Shield for storage, for the concept with caution, greatly from the uranium mining Kjell Andersson from Sweden’s possible re-use later when new suggesting that the most realistic industry, particularly in the far Karita Research discuss the technologies make it possible to option, at least in the short term, North. Buffalo Narrows Mayor measures his country has taken to extract more energy from the would be to consider a uranium Bobby Woods said that things are involve citizens in the discussion, spent fuel. refining and enhancement plant, different than in the past. Back in and how it has proven very useful much like the one in Blind River. the days of the Uranium City in alleviating traditional fears of Perhaps the highlight of the SUMA delegates passed a projects, industry moved in with the industry. Doug Fast of Fast conference was the appearance of resolution at the 2006 Convention little consultation and brought Consulting in Saskatoon has been Patrick Moore, a former founder calling on the Province to provide workers in from outside. Today, monitoring Saskatchewan and member of Greenpeace. a venue for further informed according to Woods, Northern people’s views on the industry While current members of discussion on the future uranium leaders are involved in decision- for over a decade, and has found Greenpeace paint Moore as a industry. making processes and that nearly 80% of those “turncoat” and claim his
12 The Voice of Saskatchewan Cities, Towns and Villages March 2006