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On Tuesday, the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) Convention began with an announcement from the Saskatchewan government about dealing with derelict buildings.
The Saskatchewan Government announced that it will be developing a pilot framework allowing participating municipalities to work with volunteer fire departments to safely dispose of problem, municipal-owned structures for fire fighter training exercises.
Environment Minister Travis Keisig said in a news release, “"We are making it easier for municipalities to tackle long-standing concerns about derelict buildings, while taking into account the safety of residents and consideration of environmental concerns,” Keisig said, “"This pilot project will be a great example of collaboration that benefits communities across the province."
Municipalities have been concerned about the financial burden and safety aspect of the derelict buildings.
"Municipalities are best placed to make decisions that best serve the long-term needs of their communities," Government Relations Minister Eric Schmalz said. "We will continue to work with our stakeholders to ensure that the provincial government is able to support cost-effective, locally-made and managed decisions."
The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) supports the changes, recognizing the potential benefits for rural municipalities
SARM President Bill Huber added, "The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) supports the changes, recognizing the potential benefits for rural municipalities.
"SARM is pleased to hear the provincial government is initiating a pilot program to assist rural municipalities with the removal and remediation of derelict buildings they have been forced to assume title on."
“Rural municipalities want to encourage families to live, work and stay in rural Saskatchewan, and nothing is more discouraging than a surplus of abandoned buildings."
During the upcoming spring legislative session, the Saskatchewan Government will address any regulatory or legislative changes for the pilot project.