As Saskatchewan's provincial election approaches, the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) is urging the government to prioritize the safety and functionality of municipalities. SUMA, representing the municipalities closest to the people, is advocating for a well-supported system of municipal bylaws and updated provincial legislation to ensure urban communities remain the best places to live, work, and play.
Amid rising concerns over mental health and addiction issues, SUMA is calling for reforms that would lessen the burden on police services, who are often required to manage situations outside their expertise. The association is pushing for the modernization of The Police Act, cooperative arrangements with specialized service providers, and increased municipal support for bylaw enforcement.
“Police officers are experts at maintaining law and order, but it's unreasonable to expect them to also be specialists in mental health care,” said SUMA President Randy Goulden. “In situations involving mental health, other professionals are better equipped to address patient needs. A collaborative approach, involving a variety of professionals, is essential for effective public safety.”
SUMA believes that updating The Police Act, which has not seen significant changes in over 30 years, is a key first step in relieving the pressure on police services. The act, as it stands, does not reflect current social challenges or the need for partnerships between police and other care providers.
“Mental health and addiction issues are affecting communities across Saskatchewan, and the way police respond to calls must reflect this reality,” said Goulden. “Ensuring that the right help is available during a response is critical for the safety of everyone involved—the caller, the responder, and the community.”
In addition to policing, municipalities are seeking more support to enforce and prosecute bylaws. Bylaws play an essential role in maintaining community safety, but many municipalities, especially smaller ones, lack the resources to hire dedicated bylaw enforcement officers. The RCMP generally only enforce bylaws when there is an immediate public safety risk, leaving many infractions unaddressed.
Even when municipalities issue tickets, they often face challenges in getting those tickets paid due to the overburdened provincial court system. SUMA is calling on the next provincial government to create a streamlined, alternative system for prosecuting bylaw infractions. The association is also seeking more funding and training for municipal officers to enforce bylaws effectively.
As the election draws near, SUMA is urging candidates and parties to recognize the critical role municipalities play in community safety and to support the necessary legislative changes to help them prioritize their residents’ well-being.