The Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) has expressed optimism following key announcements in the provincial Throne Speech on Monday. The speech outlined commitments to municipal revenue sharing, healthcare improvements, and enhanced funding for community rinks, addressing several long-standing concerns for Saskatchewan’s urban municipalities.
SUMA welcomed the government’s pledge to maintain the Municipal Revenue Sharing formula and the decision to double the Community Rink Affordability Grant to $5,000. The organization has consistently advocated for initiatives to improve affordability and quality of life in Saskatchewan communities, seeing these measures as steps in the right direction.
“For so many urban municipalities, the heart of the community is the rink,” SUMA President Randy Goulden said. “Funding to maintain these facilities benefits not just one community but entire regions. It’s like a hat trick in hockey—multiple communities score from one goal.”
Healthcare and Housing Concerns Persist
While SUMA appreciated the government’s commitment to opening additional urgent care centres in Saskatoon, Prince Albert, North Battleford, Moose Jaw, and Regina, Goulden emphasized that the need for mental health and addiction services far exceeds these promised resources.
“Over 80 per cent of Saskatchewan’s population lives in urban municipalities,” Goulden said. “Every time I speak to residents, I hear the same concerns: people are worried about affording necessities and staying healthy.”
She highlighted the interconnected challenges of mental health, addictions, and housing, noting that procedural and funding changes are required to programs like Saskatchewan Income Support (SIS) and Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability (SAID). According to Goulden, current administration practices exacerbate hardships for vulnerable populations, creating additional strain on healthcare and public safety systems.
A Holistic Approach to Community Well-being
SUMA urged the government to adopt a comprehensive approach to municipal well-being that addresses healthcare, community safety, and access to recreation. Goulden emphasized the importance of these measures for both urban and rural residents.
“Caring for Saskatchewan’s municipalities means considering everything from recreation to health and safety,” she said. “We hope the government continues to make improvements to programs that directly impact the lives of Saskatchewan residents.”
As municipalities prepare for the new year, SUMA is looking for further action on affordability, housing, and public safety to build stronger and healthier communities across the province.