What Did We Engage On?
The City of Saskatoon explored options to support low-income residents with the addition of curbside garbage and organics collections to the waste utility. From May to June 2022 the City engaged community organizations working with low-income residents on the design of the affordability program, who should qualify, and how we can make the program accessible to those who need it. Considerations, such as eligibility, rebate amounts, and duration, were explored in the development of the recommended options.
What Did We Propose?
Based on what we heard, in addition to municipal best practices and internal considerations, City Administration has developed the recommended options. The Considerations and Options for Supporting Low-Income Households report was presented to the Standing Policy Committee on Environment, Utilities and Corporate Services on Monday, November 7th, 2022 and was presented to City Council on November 21st, 2022. Recommend options that were presented include:
- That the City Administration implement a phased-out transitional rebate starting in 2024, and simultaneously work toward implementing a Universal Low Income Subsidy program in 2027
- That City Administration report back with further information on scope and timelines for the implementation of the phased-out transitional rebate, including detailed administration and implementation costs, by the end of 2023
- That City Administration be directed to develop a Council Policy on User Fees and Subsidies to clearly identify principles and objectives on where to charge fees and offer subsidies and report back to the appropriate committee by the end of 2023
How Can You Get Involved?
Engagement for this project has closed, but you can learn more about what we heard through the Final Engagement Report here. Thank you to all who provided their feedback!
Contact Us
You can contact us by email, telephone, or mail using the contact information below: