News Releases

Close to 1,000 people from across Canada and around the world are coming together virtually for the first-ever online, land-based Wîcihitowin (wee-chee-HEE’-toe-win) Indigenous Engagement Conference. Today marks day one of the two-day conference.

“Like fire through a forest, COVID-19 is causing havoc on communities far and wide. It has made us rethink how we interact while continuing to support those in our communities who want to listen, learn, grow and support reconciliation efforts,” says Neal Kewistep, conference co-emcee and member of the organizing committee. “This year’s virtual conference provides us with an opportunity to share the teachings of Indigenous peoples across our nation and further to continue building an inclusive community.”

Under Indigenous teachings of natural law, fire is believed to be the giver of new life where balance of Mother Earth is restored. From destruction comes rejuvenation and replenishment.

This year’s virtual conference theme—Through the Fire—will explore Indigenous worldviews and natural law, such as the Cree word wahkohtowin, which refers to kinship or the interconnectedness nature of relationships, communities, and natural systems. Within the context of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, wahkohtowin is also about working together towards respectful Indigenous engagement and inclusion.

The new format features a condensed lineup of five keynote presentations that will challenge the audience’s ways of knowing, thinking and acting to get “through the fire” of COVID-19 and guide them on their journey of reconciliation. Speakers include:

• Niigaanwewidam (Niigaan) James Sinclair, Associate Professor, University of Manitoba & Columnist, The Winnipeg Free Press;  
• Ira Horse, Knowledge Keeper and Cree Language Advocate;  
• Davis Swindler, Cree Language Advocate;  
• Shayla Stonechild, TV Host, Yoga Instructor, Founder of Matriarch Movement;  
• Marilyn Poitras, Director, Native Law Centre, University of Saskatchewan; and  
• members and children of the Saskatoon Survivors Circle, including Eugene Arcand, Maria Linklater, A.J. Felix, Patsy Felix, Rick Daniels, Donna Pelly, and Elsie Ballantyne. 

This Wîcihitowin Indigenous Engagement Conference is possible because of the financial support of community investors such as Nutrien and the Saskatoon Community Foundation.   

“Nutrien is tied to the land and the interconnected natural systems, relying on ancient mineral deposits in order for farmers to grow enough food to feed the world in a sustainable manner.  Part of feeding the world in a sustainable manner includes our relationships with Indigenous communities.  Our partnerships with Indigenous communities are mutually beneficial based on trust and respect,” says Lisa Mooney, Global Lead, Sustainability and Strategic Inclusion at Nutrien. “For Nutrien investing in the Wîcihitowin conference results in exponential impact by developing a shared understanding and building capacity for us to create a future where we are all included and valued.”

The Wîcihitowin Organizing Committee is already looking ahead to next year’s conference, which will held on October 5 - 7, 2021. 

For more information on the speakers and performers, visit wichitowin.ca. 

It’s time to get ready for winter at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo (Zoo). Preparations for winter vary for many animals at the Zoo. For some like the bison, mountain goats and pronghorns, now is the time to start developing heavier coats in anticipation for cooler temperatures. Many animals have also been increasing their food consumption including grizzly bears Mistaya and Koda who are gearing up for their long winter sleep.

“It is always great to see the animals exhibiting their natural adaptations for the upcoming winter season,” says Zoo Manager, Jeff Mitchell. “We have already seen our grizzly bears showing familiar signs of preparing for torpor, many of our elk and caribou are already displaying full antlers and soon our arctic fox’s fur will begin to change from grey to white. These are just some of the amazing transformations that we can expect to see as we move into the fall and winter seasons.”

Mitchell notes, the grizzly bears will likely be spending more time in their dens as they begin to settle in for their long winter slumber.

Dingoes Maple and Euci will also be adjusting their daily routine soon. Once the temperature falls below minus five degrees Celsius, the dingoes will start to spend more time indoors in favour of warmer temperatures.

Kazi (KAH-zee) the snow leopard is settling into his new home at the Nutrien Ark and is ready for the cooler temperatures.

“You will not see many big changes from Kazi, as he is so well adapted for winter,” says Mitchell. “One thing you may notice is his tail may get a little fluffier, that is because snow leopards will often use their tail as a scarf or a blanket during the winter months.”

The Zoo would like to remind residents that a non-medical mask is required when accessing indoor City-operated facilities and services including the Meerkat House and washroom facilities at the Zoo. Although masks are not required in outdoor spaces, the City recommends wearing a mask throughout your visit, even while enjoying the outdoor exhibits.

The Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., visit saskatoon.ca/zoo for more information or to plan your next visit.

The City of Saskatoon (City) and University of Saskatchewan (USask) recently collaborated on a study to see if chemicals that leach from rubber tires are entering the stormwater system. Water that enters storm drains, through snowmelt or rain runoff, flows into the South Saskatchewan River.

“Chemicals from rubber tire leachate have been associated with mortalities in Coho salmon in Washington State,” says Markus Brinkmann, USask Assistant Professor, School of Environment and Sustainability. “However, we currently don’t know the effects on wildlife in our region. The results, in what we believe is the first study of its kind in a Canadian municipality, show high readings of the tire rubber related compounds in Saskatoon’s runoff.”

The findings are a result of samples taken from snow facilities, snowmelt puddles, and about a dozen outfall sites along the South Saskatchewan River within the city in 2019 and 2020. The study indicates the high concentrations may relate to occasional but intense rainstorms in the summer and snowmelt in the winter. Both types of events can lead to significant accumulation followed by sudden flushing of tire rubber chemicals from roads into the stormwater system.

Russ Munro, Director of Saskatoon Water, says further research is required to better understand the factors driving the findings.

“This is a great example of why continued research and partnerships with institutions like the University of Saskatchewan are so important. Saskatoon Water operates within the guidelines set out by the Saskatchewan Water Security Agency and we’ll work with them to determine what next steps should be.”

Munro points to positive City initiatives already in place that are designed to protect the environment from contents within stormwater. Initiatives include the annual street sweeping program, numerous storm ponds that help reduce contaminants and manage water runoff, and the new Snow Management Facility. Melt water from the Snow Management Facility runs through an oil and grit separator into a meltwater/stormwater pond. The meltwater then enters a series of specially designed barriers before being discharged in a controlled fashion into the stormwater system. The City also participates in the Yellow Fish Road Program to educate residents about the impact communities can have on water runoff.

The study has been supported through an Engage Grant of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). Because the risks to species of fishes and aquatic organisms in the South Saskatchewan River are unknown, the USask team has submitted a grant application to dig deeper into the mechanisms of toxicity. Another joint application from USask and the City that focuses on detection of the compounds is being prepared.

The study has been published in the peer-reviewed Environmental Science & Technology Letters.

On Monday, October 4, the Administration will present an information report to the Standing Policy Committee of Environment, Utilities and Corporate Services outlining the proposed service level and budget requirements to support the new waste diversion regulations for the Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional (ICI) Sector.

The proposal aligns and expands on a January 2020 report to City Council. The program includes administration, education, and support to improve compliance and reduce the administrative burden on businesses. The annual operating cost of $284,000 for the program services would be considered in the City’s 2022-2023 budget process later this year.

“This is a good step forward in achieving our waste reduction and diversion target,” says Angela Gardiner, General Manager of Utilities and Environment. “By implementing the necessary service levels to support these programs, we expect to divert approximately 5,400 tonnes of recyclable and organic waste from the City’s landfill every year, extending its life by approximately 5%.”

At its meeting on August 30, 2021, City Council passed Bylaw No. 9775, The Waste Amendment Bylaw, 2021. With a phased-in approach beginning in 2022, all businesses and organizations will be required to have a separate container for recycling, and those that generate food or yard waste as part of their operations will be required to have a separate organics waste container.

The full report and attachments can be found here.

Progress updates and a decision history can be found at saskatoon.ca/iciwastediversion.

• Wallet cards received at time of immunization
• A printed copy of your MySaskHealthRecord vaccine certificate (with or without a QR code) or a ‘screenshot’ of your vaccine certificate (with or without a QR code) saved to your device
• An earlier version of your MySaskHealthRecord COVID-19 vaccine certificate
• A COVID-19 vaccine printout from Saskatchewan Health Authority Public Health
• To come - A QR code/MySaskHealthRecord vaccine certificate uploaded to SK Vax Wallet app which will be available free from Google Play or Apple App stores
• Official proof of vaccine documents from other provinces may be considered

September 30th marks the first annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in our country’s history. Previously, Sept. 30th has been recognized as Orange Shirt Day and wearing an orange shirt continues to be one way to acknowledge the day.

The federal government created this federal statutory holiday in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action #80: “to honour Survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.”

The City of Saskatoon will be observing the stat to demonstrate a commitment to reconciliation and so that employees may participate in events that promote healing and awareness and reflect on the residential school legacy.

Saskatoon City Mayor, Charlie Clark says: “This is a day for all Saskatonians and Canadians to take time to honour the strength and resilience of Survivors of residential schools. We acknowledge the pain that they, and their families, have carried for generations. And we recognize that this pain was brought on by government policy and the churches that ran the residential schools.”  

He continues: “In naming these truths on this day, we must recommit to building a future that overcomes the colonial thinking that allowed residential schools and policies to be established. Instead, we must create relationships and systems based on mutual respect where every person is valued to be who they were meant to be.”

In order to establish and maintain a mutually respectful relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) found that “there has to be awareness of the past, an acknowledgement of the harm that has been inflicted, atonement for the causes, and action to change behaviour.”

Melissa Cote, the City’s Director of Indigenous Initiatives says: “The impacts of residential schools are felt by generations of Indigenous families. This day is a day to honour all the children who went to residential school. We need to acknowledge that it's going to take generations to heal from the trauma and effects of residential schools. It will be hard work, but important and meaningful work that we all have the responsibility to carry out.” 

The City has been actively engaged – as a municipality, Co-Chair of Reconciliation Saskatoon, and through other community partnerships – in efforts to help raise awareness about the day and in providing opportunities to participate. This Community Calendar of Events hosted on the City website contains dozens of activities and initiatives that the City and other organizations have organized. Through its work with Reconciliation Saskatoon (City as Co-Chair), new reconciliation resources are being shared such as this Personal Commitment to Reconciliation and this Pathway for Moving Forward.

Saskatoon Transit buses and other City vehicles will be displaying orange t-shirt stencils this week. The City social media channels and website are being “painted orange”. City Hall, the Prairie Wind art installation and SaskTel Centre will light up orange Sept. 29-30. The flags on City-owned facilities will be lowered to half-mast to honour Survivors, those that never made it home, and the families impacted by residential schools.

Residential school Survivor John Merasty says this about Sept. 30th: “Don’t stay at home. We need to go out to the street on Orange Shirt Day. Maybe someone will be asking, why are you wearing this shirt and you can tell them why. The students should learn about Indian people and the struggles that they lived and they are continuing living today.”

The City is urging Saskatoon residents to wear an orange shirt on Wednesday, September 30^th to acknowledge the harm that was done to children in Indian Residential Schools and to honour the survivors, their families, and those in unmarked graves who did not make it home. Wearing orange is a way to acknowledge the legacy of residential schools and a commitment to the process of reconciliation.

“Wearing orange is a message to the world that you believe Every Child Matters,” says Melissa Cote, the City’s Director of Indigenous Initiatives. “Your orange shirt might spark interest from colleagues, family and friends – this presents the perfect opportunity to share your reasons for wearing orange. Everyone can help to raise public awareness in this way.”

“Thank you to all who use this day to educate themselves on how residential schools as a social engineering project changed the relationships with Indigenous Peoples in this country,” says Eugene Arcand, Chair of the Saskatoon Survivors Circle. “In this time of purification, we can all do better.”

The City has joined together with other organizations to offer the Orange Shirt Day ConnectR Reconciliation Challenge. The Reconciliation Challenge is a commitment to start or continue a journey of reconciliation by using the BeAConnectR.com website to learn more about Indigenous peoples' past and present experiences. You can choose to join the ConnectR Challenge Facebook Group if you want to share the experience and access guidance and support.

The City of Saskatoon co-chairs Reconciliation Saskatoon. Reconciliation Saskatoon is a community of over 115 organizations, non-profits, businesses and partners who have come together towards one mission: to initiate a citywide conversation about reconciliation and provide opportunities for everyone to engage in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.

The Orange Shirt Day ConnectR Reconciliation Challenge was made possible through the support of Nutrien and the Saskatoon Community Foundation and a partnership between Reconciliation Saskatoon and the Saskatoon Survivors Circle—a group of Elders that are residential school survivors who ensure that residential schools and their legacy are never forgotten.

The City’s winter roads emergency response plan was approved by City Council on Monday, September 27. With this response plan in place, extra staffing and contractor resources would be activated to restore mobility after a blizzard with an accumulated snow fall of at least 25 centimetres and reduced mobility to the point that light vehicles cannot travel on city streets. This plan was developed by the Administration after 30-40 centimetres of snow fell in November 2020, which required day and night city-wide snow grading and removal to restore mobility and safety in the city.

“We have a fine-tuned response plan for snowstorms that we scale up for the handful of times each year when more than 5 centimetres of snow accumulates,” says Goran Saric, Director of Roadways, Fleet & Support. “And now, this plan is a more robust, multi-agency strategy for a future extreme event like we saw in November, allowing us to respond faster and more efficiently city-wide.”

The response plan was developed using lessons learned from the November 2020 blizzard and examples from other winter cities, with input from other agencies and stakeholders to ensure it follows an approach that works for the whole community.

Residents should have an emergency plan too. “Residents should always have a 72-hour emergency plan for any emergency event.  You should be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for a minimum of 72 hours (about 3 days),” says Pamela Goulden-McLeod, Director of Emergency Planning. “It could take that long for emergency services to reach you in a city-wide emergency at any time of year.”

The City’s previous extreme blizzard was in 2007 when 36 centimetres of snow fell in one day. Projections using 30 years of historical data for Saskatoon estimate this type of blizzard may occur again in 10 to 14 years. As the frequency and severity of inclement weather is predicted to increase with climate change, the frequency of future extreme snow events may be higher (e.g., 1 occurrence every 7 years).

More information and education about the response plan will be available this winter. For more information about the City’s regular winter operations, visit saskatoon.ca/snow. 

• green – minimal risk
• yellow - caution
• orange – high risk
• red – critical risk

• review of current Public Health Orders
• review of current COVID-19 situation
• consultation with local MHO and other key stakeholders
• review by City Council
• any approved measures would be activated on the first day of the next month and would remain in place until a review at the next Council meeting

Over 2,500 participants have registered for the virtual 2021 Wîcihitowin Indigenous Engagement Conference on October 5-7. The event will provide registrants with important teachings to assist them on their paths to reconciliation.

“With registration closing tonight at 11:59 p.m., we can announce that this year will be our largest group of attendees to date,” says Brad Bird, Co-Chair of the Wîcihitowin Organizing Committee and Director of Reconciliation, Saskatoon Public Library. “We are looking forward to welcoming thousands of people virtually to learn from our speakers—including Residential School Survivors and Knowledge Keepers—about the Seven Sacred Teachings that guide Indigenous Peoples’ ways of knowing.”

Established in 2014, the Wîcihitowin Conference was created to provide Residential School Survivors and Sixties Scoop Survivors with a platform to share their voices and teachings, to inspire respectful engagement and meaningful inclusion of Indigenous peoples within the community, and to share resources and tools to form and maintain culturally respectful organizations. “Wîcihitowin”, a Cree/Saulteaux term meaning “to help each other/to work together”, is the driving force for the now annual event.

“The Wîcihitowin conference provides an opportunity for community members to learn from survivors and for survivors to share their experiences, resilience and strength,” says Gilbert Kewistep, a Residential School Survivor and advisor to the conference organizing committee. “I want to thank everyone who chooses to virtually attend the conference, because fully committing your time and attention to learning matters. And, these conversations matter.”

“The City makes a point to contribute financial and human resource support to this conference every year,” says Melissa Cote, Director of Indigenous Initiatives for the City of Saskatoon. “The feedback we get from this event is always incredible – how it influenced individuals and organizations to change their thinking as well as their practices. Past participants feel that this conference has contributed to progress on Indigenous engagement and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.”

The theme of this year’s conference is The Seven Sacred Teachings: love, respect, courage, honesty, wisdom, humility and truth. These inherent beliefs and values guide Indigenous Peoples’ ways of knowing and are shared by generations through oral traditions of storytelling and ceremony. The conference presentations will demonstrate how the Seven Sacred Teachings can guide people through their personal journeys; help community members, organizations, governments, and businesses respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action; and ensure respectful Indigenous engagement and inclusion within communities.

2021 conference presenters include:

• Chief Cadmus Delorme, Cowessess First Nation
• Dr. Cindy Blackstock, Executive Director, First Nations Child and Family Caring Society
• Dr. Dave Courchene - Nii Gaani Aki Innini (Leading Earth Man), Elder and Knowledge Keeper, Anishinaabe Nation
• Richard Van Camp, Storyteller and Author, Dene Nation from Fort Smith, Northwest Territories
• Stephanie Harpe, Residential School Survivor, International Advocate for Murdered, Missing and Exploited Indigenous Peoples, Singer/Songwriter
• Representatives from the Saskatoon Survivors Circle

“It’s important that we acknowledge there are so many different ways of learning,” says Bird. “This conference provides many Indigenous and non-Indigenous people with a connection to traditional teachings—I promise that the content will be eye-opening and thought-provoking whether you’re attending for the first time or the seventh.”

Registration is available free of charge at wicihitowin.ca, closing on September 27 at 11:59 p.m. (CST). For conference updates, you can also follow Wîcihitowin YXE on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

The Wîcihitowin Indigenous Engagement Conference is made possible through contributions from the City of Saskatoon, Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy, Saskatchewan Health Authority, Saskatoon Public Library, United Way & Area, Saskatoon Community Foundation, and Nutrien (premier investor).

The City is aware of a positive COVID-19 case impacting the City of Regina’s transit service. At this time, Saskatoon Transit is not impacted by this recent news.

The situation in Regina is an important reminder about the required steps in place to protect the health and safety of bus riders, residents and employees.

Non-medical face masks are required when traveling on Saskatoon Transit as an added safety measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community. As students return to class and other activities resume this Fall, the mask requirement allows Saskatoon Transit to safely operate full-seated loads and meet demand on all fixed route and Access Transit buses.

Even if you have no symptoms, wearing a cloth or disposable mask is an extra measure we can all take to protect others around us, particularly in situations where two metres physical distancing cannot be maintained.

Visit Saskatoon.ca/covid-19 for information on mask requirements and other precautions.

The Saskatoon Tribal Council (STC) will lead a new pilot project and Task Force to help support people who are homeless and improve safety in downtown Saskatoon. The pilot will be called Sawêyihtotân (suh-WAY-EE’-tote-tahn) which means let us bless each other through our show of respect for each other.

STC will lead the new community outreach team, which will be based in Saskatoon’s White Buffalo Youth Lodge. The team will include members from STC, the City/Saskatoon Police Service and the organizations that are part of the Saskatoon Inter-Agency Response to Safety and Well-Being group. Two staff members from the Ministry of Social Services and one staff member from the Saskatoon Housing Authority will join the team, with support from the Saskatchewan Health Authority.

The City of Saskatoon is providing $100,000 in funding towards this initiative, while the Ministry of Social Services and Ministry of Justice are providing another $50,000 each, bringing the total funding to $200,000.00. Including staff resources, Social Services will be providing over $117,000.00 in funding towards this important work to increase community safety and well-being in Saskatoon.   

“I am confident that this collaboration will add to the services we have in place to support those in need and help to better serve people in the downtown area who have no supports and nowhere to go,” Social Services Minister Paul Merriman said. “I also believe this community-driven initiative can inform a longer-term approach to serving people in need in Saskatoon and am very proud to support it.”

“We are committed to providing people with the supports they need to live safe and healthy lives,” said Minister of Justice and Attorney General Don Morgan. “Saskatoon Tribal Council has a strong track record of providing important supports in the Saskatoon community, and Government is proud to partner with them as part of our mutual goal of creating healthy communities.”

“This initiative complements the great work already underway to improve community safety and gives us an opportunity to develop a model that encompasses holistic, culturally relevant ways to meet the needs of the population,” said Saskatoon Tribal Council Chief Mark Arcand. “We have an unprecedented opportunity to build on the lessons we learned and the relationships we created from our recent collaboration responding to COVID-19 and the closure of the City Centre Inn - to provide better outcomes for those on the streets and contribute to the safety of all Saskatoon people.”

“The Sawêyihtotân initiative is a turning point in responding to the on-going health and safety of people on the streets and downtown,” said Mayor Charlie Clark.  “This is the first step.  The Wahkohtowin (wuh-COH’-toe-win) Task Force is the important second phase of this work to develop new models for shelter services and supportive housing over the months ahead. 

“It has taken a lot of commitment and working together in new ways, by many partners, to address the gaps that have existed for too long.  The fact that we have Minister Merriman and the participation of the Provincial Government directly in the development of solutions is crucial to these efforts, and I thank them for their participation.  This is also a turning point in moving the words of Reconciliation into action. The leadership of the Saskatoon Tribal Council brings an Indigenous-based approach to help us all learn how to build more holistic approaches in meeting the needs of people who are hurting. This feels like a historic moment for our community.”

The Downtown Safety Response Plan is split into two phases – a comprehensive community-based case management strategy, and a long-term transitional supportive housing model.

The immediate priority of this initiative will see the street outreach team begin its work this fall, starting with people in the most urgent need in downtown Saskatoon. The team will work with individuals to develop case plans, establish supports and help them secure and maintain stable housing. 

The initial phase, which will carry through over the next several months, will provide valuable feedback into a longer-term plan for serving Saskatoon’s homeless population and others in need of housing and supports.

The second phase will be supported by the work performed in Phase One. It will explore a collaborative approach than perhaps a traditional model of a single agency providing supports for vulnerable community members.

The groundwork for the City’s response to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Calls for Justice is outlined in a report to the Governance and Priorities Committee of City Council. The report to be presented at the Committee meeting Monday, September 21, provides an overview of current City initiatives relating to the National Inquiry and the approach for the development of a long-term strategy.

“Municipalities can play an important role in supporting and implementing programs and policies that answer the Calls for Justice,” says Melissa Cote, Director of Indigenous Initiatives. “Locally, by working together across the organization and with our community partners, we can make changes and act to address these issues.”

The report outlines current City initiatives that align with the Calls for Justice, such as the City’s “Little Sisters in Action Program,” working with community partners in their efforts to create safe spaces for Two-Spirit youth in ceremony and cultural spaces, “Safe Bus” basic training for City of Saskatoon staff, and contributing to the Saskatoon Poverty Reduction Partnership.

The long-term strategy will involve a wide range of community voices and organizations as well as involve a cross-functional team within the City’s various divisions and departments. The goal is to create a coordinated and holistic approach to address reconciliation, equity, diversity and inclusion as well as Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA* people.

The outlined approach will include engaging with Indigenous matriarchs, individuals and families with lived experience, community-based organizations and leaders, academics and service delivery organizations.

Initial discussions have highlighted the importance of several principles and approach to the strategy, including:

• A community-driven and citizen-centred approach that is flexible, responsive and respectful to the Indigenous community, organizations, families and individuals.
• That responses to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action, the MMIWG2S Calls to Justice and work on Anti-Racism -- although linked -- remain distinct and separate.
• The issues are complex and require a long-term strategy, while demonstrating short-term progress and outcomes.
• It is important to support and not duplicate the work of other organizations.
• The long-term strategy and actions should inform the provincial and national action plans.

A report will be provided in the future to City Council outlining the actions and projects included for implementation in the long-term strategy.

To view agendas, minutes and video for meetings of City Council, Boards & Committees, visit saskatoon.ca/agendas.

*Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Intersex and Asexual

In response to the new provincial public health measures, the City wishes to remind residents that masks are required when traveling on Saskatoon Transit and when accessing indoor City-operated facilities and services. City Council approved the action at its meeting on Monday, August 30 as an added safety measure to address the increasing spread of COVID-19 in our community and it is now required and enforceable under the public health order.

According to the Government of Saskatchewan public health order, youth athletes under age 18 are exempt from the masking order for indoor youth athletics and while they are actively engaged in athletic activity. Masking in venues hosting youth athletics will remain required for general entry and exit into the facility, for athletes and spectators. 

The Government of Saskatchewan also introduced a mandatory vaccination or COVID testing requirement for all Government of Saskatchewan ministry, crown and agency employees. These employees will be required to be fully vaccinated with the COVID-19 vaccine by October 1. Employees that do not provide proof of vaccination will be required to provide proof of a negative test result on a consistent basis. 

The City has been planning the launch of regular mandatory COVID-19 rapid tests for all staff who report to the workplace, with adjustments for fully vaccinated staff who choose to share their vaccination status. The program will launch October 4 for City staff.

At the earlier request of City Council and in response to the Government of Saskatchewan’s October 1 requirement to show proof of vaccination or negative test for public access to certain establishments, businesses and event venues that bring groups of people together, the City will explore the impact to civic facilities, programs and services once full details of the proof of vaccination system and technology are shared by the province.

More details on the Government of Saskatchewan’s announcement are available on their website. For the latest updates, visit saskatoon.ca/covid-19. 

One case of Dutch elm disease (DED) has been confirmed in Saskatoon. An elm sample sent to the provincial lab by the City’s Urban Biological Services staff has come back positive for DED.

In accordance with the City’s DED Response Plan, which requires immediate removal of all positive trees, crews will begin tomorrow removing the infected tree located in the Montgomery neighbourhood. Also in accordance with the City’s DED Response Plan, inspectors will follow up and search for stored firewood in yards located in Montgomery, Fairhaven, Meadowgreen and the South Industrial area in an effort to pinpoint a source. Staff will respect all physical distancing protocols as they provide the necessary inspection services.

“This discovery of Dutch elm disease demonstrates that our screening procedures and inspection program works,” says Darren Crilly, Director of Parks. “We have had success in the past with our response plan and are now taking the same aggressive action to stop it from spreading to other neighbourhoods.”

Saskatoon’s DED Response Plan requires:

• Immediate removal of all positive trees
• Disposal of infected trees at the City landfill
• Sampling of adjacent trees
• Surveillance and testing of private and public trees in the surrounding area with an intensive search for elm material and other sources of infection

“Dutch elm disease is a serious disease of the American elm,” says Jeff Boone, Entomologist. “The disease was introduced into North America in the 1930s, and has wiped out millions of elms across Canada and the United States. Dutch elm disease has been present in Saskatchewan since the 1980s and Saskatoon has not had a tree test positive for the disease since summer of 2015.”

American elm trees with Dutch elm disease may start showing symptoms as early as the month of June. Typically, the leaves will start to wilt and turn yellow, then curl and turn brown. Residents who start to notice any of these symptoms, are encouraged to call Urban Biological Services at 306-975-2890.

The most effective management strategy for DED is to not transport or store elm wood. Infected firewood is the most likely way that DED would be brought into Saskatoon.

Residents can help prevent Dutch elm disease by:

• Not pruning elms during the provincial pruning ban (April 1 to August 31)
• Not storing or transporting any elm firewood – provincial regulations prohibit the storing or transporting of elm firewood
• Always dispose of any elm wood at the City Landfill

For more information on DED, visit saskatoon.ca/dutchelmdisease.

The City is preparing for Orange Shirt Day (Sept. 30) by urging Saskatoon residents, businesses, and organizations to 1) wear an orange shirt on September 30^th and, 2) accept the ConnectR Reconciliation Challenge.

Orange Shirt Day is a day to mark the healing journey of residential school survivors and their families and to renew our commitment to the ongoing process of reconciliation. It’s a day for us to reaffirm that Every Child Matters. The date was chosen because it’s the time of year in which children were taken from their homes to residential schools.

“Wearing an orange shirt on September 30^th is an easy but important way to acknowledge the impact residential schools had and continue to have on Indigenous communities,” says Melissa Cote, the City’s Director of Indigenous Initiatives. “The ConnectR Reconciliation Challenge is an opportunity to go one step further and gain insights into the past and present realities of Indigenous people. We’re really excited to see people take up the challenge.”

Wear an Orange Shirt

Any orange shirt will do, however, there is the option to purchase an Every Child Matters t-shirt at orangeshirtday.net. Shirts are $15 apiece with discounts for bulk orders. (Note: you need to be registered and logged in to place an order.) Partial proceeds go to the Orange Shirt Society to support awareness activities.

Accept the ConnectR Reconciliation Challenge

The Reconciliation Challenge is a commitment to start or continue a journey of reconciliation by using the BeAConnectR.com website to learn more about Indigenous peoples' past and present experiences. Each week for 8 weeks, beginning this Sunday (Sept. 13^th), participants choose a new challenge. Things like:

• Read an Indigenous author
• Learn about the treaty territory you reside on
• Try an Indigenous recipe
• Watch residential school survivor videos
• Watch an Indigenous film

Organizations and individuals can also join the ConnectR Challenge Facebook Group to share experiences and receive updates to help guide and support their journey. The group will be a link to survivor videos and four online events where Indigenous Elders, survivors, educators, artists and youth inspire and educate this community of people learning and taking action. Those not on Facebook can email BeAConnectR@gmail.com to be added to an email list.

Orange Shirt Day ConnectR Reconciliation Challenge was made possible through investments by Nutrien and a partnership between Reconciliation Saskatoon and the Saskatoon Survivors Circle—a group of Elders that are residential school survivors who ensure that residential schools and their legacy are never forgotten. Reconciliation Saskatoon is a community of over 115 organizations, non-profits, businesses and partners who have come together towards one mission: to initiate a citywide conversation about reconciliation and provide opportunities for everyone to engage in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. The City of Saskatoon co-chairs Reconciliation Saskatoon.

Saskatoon’s Senator Sid Buckwold Bridge is stronger with a smoother driving surface and a wider, more protected pedestrian walkway. The two-year, $20 million rehabilitation project on the 54-year-old structure is complete and the bridge will fully reopen on Sunday, September 6.

“Work progressed so well this summer that we are able to open the bridge approximately two months earlier than originally planned and within budget,” says Rob Frank, City of Saskatoon Engineering Manager of Asset Preservation. “We’ve improved the overall life span of the bridge by strengthening it and residents will notice a wider, safer walkway that better protects them from vehicular traffic.”

The City of Saskatoon utilized $15 million of its federal Gas Tax Fund (GTF) allocations towards the Sid Buckwold Bridge rehabilitation project. The GTF program in Saskatchewan is administered by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Government Relations.

“It is great news that the rehabilitation of the Senator Sid Buckwold Bridge has been completed early,” says the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities. “The improvements to the structure and walkway will keep traffic moving smoothly across this key Saskatoon crossing for years to come while also making it safer for pedestrians. Canada’s Infrastructure plan invests in thousands of projects, creates jobs across Canada, and builds stronger communities.”

“The Government of Saskatchewan is proud to play a role in administering the federal Gas Tax Fund program,” Government Relations Minister Lori Carr says. "This federal funding helps local governments advance important infrastructure projects, like the rehabilitation of Saskatoon's Senator Sid Buckwold Bridge and ramp structure. With the completion of each project, we help strengthen our communities and improve the quality of life for Saskatchewan's residents."

The Senator Sid Buckwold Bridge Rehabilitation Project included:

• Resurfacing of the Idylwyld Drive ramp over 19^th Street to 1^st Avenue 
• Walkway widening with taller barriers for improved pedestrian protection 
• New drainage system to help better traction by reducing puddles and splashing
• Concrete deck repairs and asphalt replacement
• Strengthening of piers  
• Barrier replacement 

Crews will remain on site over the next couple of weeks to complete some minor work and clean-up following the bridge opening.

The bridge officially opened in 1966 and was renamed in 2001 in honour of Senator Sidney L. Buckwold, who was the Mayor of Saskatoon when the bridge was built. It is 183 metres (600 feet) long and spans over the narrowest point of the South Saskatchewan River within Saskatoon.

To protect the health and safety of bus riders, residents and employees, non-medical face masks are required when traveling on Saskatoon Transit beginning September 1; as an added safety measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community, masks are recommended, but not required, when accessing indoor City-operated facilities and services.

“Our community spirit is strong when we work as one community to keep our guard up,” says Anthony Tataryn, Assistant Fire Chief. “Even if you have no symptoms, wearing a cloth or disposable mask is an extra measure we can all take to protect others around us, particularly in situations where two metres physical distancing cannot be maintained.”

City Council approved the measure at its meeting Monday, August 31. The change will allow Saskatoon Transit to safely operate full-seated loads and meet demand on all fixed route and Access Transit buses.

“Fall means back to school and the resumption of some activities, so we’ve looked at how we can meet the increased demand for our services,” says James McDonald, Director of Saskatoon Transit. “With more people riding the bus, physical distancing is not always possible, so requiring the use of masks is the next step to protect the health and safety of our riders and our bus operators.”

“The City is in the process of reopening the remaining indoor leisure centres and revising the programs that are delivered in those facilities,” says Andrew Roberts, Director of Recreation and Community Development. “We have safety measures in place throughout our leisure centres to ensure the safety of both our employees and our customers and the use of masks is seen as an added precaution indoors where physical distancing may be difficult to keep at all times.”

If at any point in the future the Province provides direction related to mask use by the public the City would follow the Provincial lead. 

The City will focus on educating and informing the public of COVID-19 safety precautions and the use of non-medical face coverings as an additional safety precaution, rather than enforcement. 

For the latest updates on City services including a list of convenient online services, visit saskatoon.ca/covid-19. 

City Council yesterday approved amendments to Bylaw No. 8075, The Business License Bylaw, and Bylaw No. 8770, The Zoning Bylaw that update the regulations for short-term accommodations; hosts now must obtain a Commercial Business License, and abide by occupation limits among other regulations.

Short-term accommodations include vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts and AirBnBs. 

The amendments were proposed by the Administration following extensive engagement with the public, stakeholders and hotel industry. They establish development standards and licensing requirements for short-term accommodations to maintain the amenity and character of the areas they are located in, and minimize potential conflicts.

Highlights of the requirements include:

• Short-Term Rental Properties - rental property of the host:
  • Application requirements include obtaining a Commercial Business License, as well as submitting a Host Declaration Form, along with written permission of the property owner and/or condominium corporation (if applicable). Discretionary use approval (a form of public consultation) is required in low and medium density residential zoning districts.
  • Regulations include hosting a maximum of six guests in a dwelling and three guests in a secondary suite located within a dwelling. One hard surface parking space must be provided on-site for guests.
• Homestays - home of the host:
  • Application requirements include obtaining a Commercial Business License, as well as submitting a Host Declaration Form, along with written permission of the property owner and/or condominium corporation (if applicable).
  • Regulations include hosting a maximum of six guests in a one-unit dwelling, three guests in a secondary suite, and two guests in a duplex, townhouse, apartment or condominium. Two hard surface parking spaces must be provided on-site.

For more information on the bylaw amendments and the requirements for short-term accommodations, visit saskatoon.ca/shorttermstays.

Immigration is important to Canada’s economy and population growth. It is estimated that Canada needs 350,000 immigrants every year to meet its workforce needs. By 2035, 25 per cent of Canada’s population will be 65-years-old and above. In short, Canada will need more workers to support the economy. Our local and provincial economies plus the associated health of our communities in the years ahead depend on making Saskatoon and Saskatchewan a supportive and welcoming place for immigrant families.

To further this work, Immigration Partnership Saskatoon (IPS) is proud to be launching its “See Me As I Am/Be An Ally” campaign. The goals of the campaign are to increase awareness of how newcomers benefit Saskatoon, to build support and create understanding of newcomers as an integral part of an inclusive, diverse workforce and welcoming community.
  
Established in May 2017, IPS is a community collective that includes Saskatoon Settlement Sector agencies, the Government of Canada, Province of Saskatchewan, City of Saskatoon, the University of Saskatchewan, United Way of Saskatoon, Saskatoon Public School Division, Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools, Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce and others. The Partnership is developing a Newcomer Strategy and Action Plan to make Saskatoon more welcoming for newcomers and to improve accessibility to services.

“The “See Me As I Am/Be An Ally” campaign is a great example of what Saskatoon is all about - it’s a community-driven and community-focused project that builds connections and understanding. The messaging is powerful, and it serves as an important reminder to see beyond our differences and to reinforce the connections and ties that we share. When we are at our best as a city, we can serve as an example of what it means to be welcoming and inclusive,” says Charlie Clark, Mayor of Saskatoon.

“Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada is proud to partner with Saskatoon’s  campaign. Now, more than ever, Canadians need to unite around our common values of “See Me As I Am/Be An Ally” diversity and inclusion. I am pleased that Saskatonians are having this important dialogue, and I look forward to seeing what fruit this brings,” says the Honourable Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC).

“The Government of Saskatchewan is proud to be a part of Immigration Saskatoon Partnership and welcomes this exciting new campaign,” Immigration and Career Training Minister Jeremy Harrison said. “Efforts like this to support newcomers in their transition and integration into Saskatoon and across our great province will help those individuals and our communities achieve social, cultural, and economic success.”

The campaign includes the “See Me As I Am” and the “Be An Ally” videos. To learn more about how you can be an ally and to see the videos, visit the IPS website at https://ipsk.ca/.

The City in partnership with Dream Development today, unveiled the installation of a large-scale art piece in the Brighton neighbourhood.  Entitled “Coming Home”, Dream Development worked with Heavy Industries, Fort Architecture and Saskatoon-born designer, Landon Anholt, to create the sculpture which is intended to complement the natural environment and specifically the nearby wetlands. The sculpture is the largest private donation of public art in the City’s history.

“Public art adds vibrancy to a neighbourhood and helps to create a sense of belonging and pride in our community,” says Mayor Charlie Clark. “This piece, envisioned by a Saskatoon-born designer, reflects the natural beauty of the area and will become a centrepiece for the growing Brighton neighbourhood. My thanks to Dream Development for the unprecedented investment in public art and to all the City of Saskatoon staff and community partners for enriching the neighbourhood with this great project.”

According to Jayden Schmiess, Land Development Manager at Dream Development, the most unique feature of the piece is its perspective. 

“From most vantage points the piece will look like a cluster of bird houses suspended in the air or a neighborhood in the sky,” Schmiess says. “However, from the westbound lanes of Brighton Common, as you approach it, the individual elements come together to form the shape of a large bird in flight with outstretched wings.”

The Saskatoon Municipal Culture Plan includes specific strategies to facilitate cultural investments in Saskatoon neighbourhoods, with donations of public art facilitated through the City’s Policy No. C10-025, Public Art Policy. The commission and donation of “Coming Home” could potentially serve as a future model for the donation of public art by developers in new Saskatoon neighbourhoods.

The City thanks Dream Development for the generous donation of “Coming Home” to Saskatoon’s public art collection.

On Monday, August 24, the Governance & Priorities Committee will consider a report that addresses the use of non-medical face coverings by the public.

“COVID-19 is still a public emergency and according to public health experts, it will continue to impact City services and the community for months to come,” says Pamela Goulden-McLeod, Director of Emergency Management Organization. “At a local level, we continue to follow recommendations from the Government of Canada and the Provincial Government to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission using the hierarchy of controls. The hierarchy suggests that non-medical face coverings should be used when other controls such as staying at home, physical distancing, installing barriers, and altering services cannot be achieved.”

City Administration is recommending to Council that non-medical face masks be required when traveling on Saskatoon Transit beginning September 1 to allow Saskatoon Transit to safely operate full-seated loads and meet demand on all fixed route and Access Transit buses. The Administration is also recommending to Council that non-medical face masks are recommended, but not required, when accessing indoor City-operated facilities and services to protect the health and safety of residents and employees. Additionally, the report outlines implications and considerations in respect to a community-wide non-medical face masks bylaw.

“The health and well-being of our employees and residents continues to be our priority in putting these recommendations forward,” adds Goulden-McLeod. “By following the recommended safety precautions, and wearing a non-medical face mask indoors, we can continue to stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community and protect the health of our family, friends and neighbours.”

If at any point in the future the Province provides direction related to mask use by the public the City would follow the Provincial lead. 

If approved, the City will focus on educating and informing the public of COVID-19 safety precautions and the use of non-medical face coverings as an additional safety precaution, rather than enforcement. 

Residents can expect additional City facilities to open in the days and weeks ahead. For the latest updates on City services including a list of convenient online services, visit saskatoon.ca/covid-19. 

The City of Saskatoon continues to undertake workforce planning in light of COVID-19. The City’s priority has been to maintain services and jobs wherever possible while keeping the health of employees and residents top of mind. Core services are being maintained throughout the pandemic. 

“Given that such a large percentage of our workforce needs to be working in the community or interfacing with residents, we have definitely had to pivot during this time,” says David Smith, Acting Chief Human Resources Officer. “We’ve had to adjust operations in a number of ways to follow Government of Saskatchewan’s public health orders.”

Some of these changes have included: mandatory masks for employees that are unable to physically distance, reorganization of work spaces to enable more distance and add barriers, operational adjustments to allow more time for sanitization of work and public spaces. In accordance with provincial health orders and the Re-Open Saskatchewan Plan, other employees have been working from home where they can do so effectively using digital technologies.

“In preparation for a potential increase of COVID-19 cases this fall, the City is continuing to apply a high degree of caution to our workforce planning,” says Smith. “For example, we’ve recently directed those employees that can effectively work from home to continue doing so until January.”

The City is working to bring more services online and to increase its customer service capacity via phone, email and other virtual platforms. In addition to these ongoing adjustments, a formal review of operations will take place in November to consider and reassess workforce planning measures.
 

The City of Saskatoon’s 2019 Annual Report is now available online.

The Financial Statements continue to show prudent financial management and responsible governance by the Administration and City Council.

The City continues to enjoy a strong and steadily growing economy, which can be seen by the City’s 2019 ending surplus of $0.518 million compared to a deficit of $3.02 million in 2018, a healthy Statement of Financial Position along with a AAA/Stable credit rating from S&P Global.

The Annual Report provides an overview of:

• The City’s Audited Consolidated Financial Statements;
• Financial Discussion & Analysis on the City’s Financial performance and forecasts;
• Updates on Major Projects and Initiatives; and
• Updated Performance Measures made against goals outlined in the City’s 2018 – 2021 Strategic Plan.

The City's fiscal year runs from January 1 to December 31.

View other performance and finance-related reports at saskatoon.ca.

The 2020 Civic Election is November 9, 2020.  Eligible voters in Saskatoon will cast their ballot for Mayor, City Councillors and School Board Trustees. Voting safely is our priority. The City’s Election Office will ensure public safety measures are in place for voters and election workers. The Civic Election team will respond accordingly to all current public health orders and COVID-19 directives as issued by the Province.  

In an effort to provide a greater number of voting opportunities, encourage voter turnout, and ensure voting safely during the COVID-19 pandemic, additional voting opportunities will be available to Saskatoon residents this fall.

At its special meeting today, City Council received an information report that advises of an increase to the number of advance polling stations, and approved an amendment to The Election Bylaw, 2012 to expand accessibility to mail-in ballots.

“We’re pleased to be able to provide eligible voters with a number of options to cast their ballots in this fall’s Civic Election, whether it’s by mail-in ballot, advanced poll or in-person on election day November 9,” says Scott Bastian, Returning Officer.

Meeting highlights:

• Changes to The Election Bylaw, 2012:
  • All eligible voters will be able to request a mail-in ballot, regardless of circumstances.
  • The requirements for the mail-in ballot application witnesses criteria has been expanded to anyone who is an eligible voter in the municipal election.
• The election team is currently finalizing plans to implement the City’s first ever drive thru advance poll voting option, located in the north-end of Saskatoon.
• Advanced polls will be increased over the 2016 election with a total of 11 advanced poll locations available between October 30 and November 5.
• Sixty-six polling stations will be open (one in each neighbourhood as reasonably practical) on election day November 9.

Eligible voters can apply online for a mail-in ballot by visiting saskatoon.ca/mailballot. Mail-in ballots must be received at the election office on November 9 by 8:00 p.m.

For more information and the latest election updates, visit saskatoon.ca/election2020 or follow the City on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

Saskatoon’s Bicycle Bylaw has been updated to bring cycling rules and regulations in line with national best practices. The changes, proposed by the Administration following input from various community organizations, Business Improvement Districts and City Advisory Committees, have been adopted by City Council.

“Reviewing and updating the Bicycle Bylaw was one of 80 action items within our Active Transportation Plan,” says Jay Magus, Director of Transportation. “The feedback we have received over the past two years regarding ways to improve safety and encourage respectful shared road and pathway etiquette, has been imperative in helping us bring it up to date.”

Revisions made to the Bicycle Bylaw include:

• Children under the age of 14 are allowed to ride bikes on the sidewalk; 
• People riding bikes on shared pathways must ride at a moderate rate of speed and proceed with reasonable consideration for all pedestrians and other path users.

The following revision has also been made to the Traffic Bylaw:

• Drivers must pass people riding bikes on the road with a minimum one-metre buffer on streets with only one driving lane in the direction of travel.

“These changes affect all of us whether we’re walking, biking, or driving. We hope the Bicycle Bylaw and the changes we have made will help reinforce safe and respectful traveling behaviour among all road and pathway users,” says Magus.

To enforce all aspects of the revised Bicycle Bylaw, both Saskatoon Police and Community Support Officers have the ability to issue tickets. The revised Bicycle Bylaw is officially in effect.

For more information on the revised Bicycle Bylaw and for cycling tips, where to ride and how to safely bike around town, please visit Saskatoon.ca/byxe. 

The re-location team has completed the first phase of the support for residents of the City Centre Inn and Suites.

As of Thursday evening, July 23, 120 individuals were provided the opportunity for temporary housing and re-location to local shelters and local hotels. Several residents were provided longer-term housing options.

“An amazing team came together and performed incredible work here,” says Assistant Chief Yvonne Raymer. “Re-housing this many people in such a short time – and under these circumstances – is an accomplishment practically unheard of."

“Emergency Management Organization’s leadership in bringing together all the government and community-based partners, and the willingness of those organizations to problem-solve together, responding to every changing circumstance, speaks to the heart and care of our city.”

Today, Friday, July 24 the Ministry of Social Services and AIDS Saskatoon staff will be connecting with the residents to:

• Confirm they are at the re-location site
• Provide clothing vouchers
• Follow-up with requests for additional supports

The Salvation Army will be providing food for residents over the weekend at their re-location site.

The re-housing team will meet Monday to determine additional actions to support residents with longer-term housing placements.

More information:

Update: Fire Department & community partners move to house residents of unsafe motel

A full summary of City Centre Inn & Suites Order of Closure can be found here.

The plan to provide housing for residents displaced as a result of the Fire Department ordering the closure of the City Centre Inn and Suites, continues to move forward.  As of 1 p.m. residents began to move to alternate housing. That process is still underway.

The Ministry of Social Services offered the option of temporary housing at local shelters.  Residents with medical or unique personal needs were offered the option of temporary housing in local hotels.

A full summary of City Centre Inn & Suites Order of Closure can be found here.

****

The Saskatoon Fire Department with the support of many community partner organizations will today take action to house approximately 150 residents of the City Centre Inn and Suites.

The Fire Department has taken the unusual but necessary steps ordering a closure of the entire City Centre Inn and Suites because of unsafe and unsanitary living conditions; the notice remains pending and will be in effect at 3 p.m. today, Thursday, July 23.

“The Department is limited in its legal authority to enter and inspect what are essentially people’s homes,” says Assistant Chief Yvonne Raymer.  “Once we were alerted by an anonymous complaint, we moved forward with the inspection process.  When it became clear there were immediate hazards because of unsafe and unclean living conditions, we quickly moved to close the entire facility.”

Approximately seven teams will conduct door-to-door visits to each room at the City Center Inn and Suites to support relocation of the residents.

The circulating teams will be comprised of:

• One health professional to conduct COVID-19 screening and swab testing
• Two or more outreach workers to assess needs and determine appropriate housing options

Approximately 40 staff resources from the following agencies will be on site to support this process:

• 10 – 12  members from the Saskatoon Tribal Council
• Seven Ministry of Social Services members plus one supervisor
• Five members from the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA)
• Five members from The Salvation Army
• Three members from AIDS Saskatoon
• Three members from Saskatoon Housing Initiatives Partnership
• Two members from Saskatchewan Housing Authority
• Two members from the City of Saskatoon Emergency Management Organization
• One member from Public Health

The SHA Health Bus is one on site until 4:30 p.m.

Saskatoon Transit is providing transportation to the new locations for the residents. 

Canada Post is supporting the residents with change of address.

Meals, water and coffee for staff and displaced residents is being provided by the Salvation Army today.

The Saskatoon SPCA and Okihtcitawak Patrol Group were also on hand to lend assistance to the residents.

Single adults will go either to a shelter, hotel or stay with family or friends for short term housing needs. 

The Saskatchewan Housing Authority is also on site to provide case management for longer term housing options.

Four families have already been relocated.

“The Fire Department is so grateful for the collaboration and support of our government and community based partners to make this happen in roughly 48 hours,” Raymer says.

Assistant Chief Raymer says the most recent visit to 610 Idylwyld Drive North which involved four Fire Inspectors revealed an immediate hazard with issues such as:

• unsafe and unsanitary conditions
• locked exit doors
• stairs at risk of collapse
• combustible material too close to buildings
• inaccessible fire extinguishers
• too few and un-inspected extinguishers
• improper smoke alarm records
• failure to maintain fire alarm systems

The owner of the City Centre Inn and Suites has been ordered to remedy 34 deficiencies under the Property Maintenance and Nuisance Abatement Bylaw; and 27 deficiencies under the National Fire Code of Canada.

The closure notice – which is pending – is expected to be in effect by 3 p.m. today, Thursday, July 23.

The Saskatoon Fire Department with the support of many community partner organizations will today take action to house approximately 150 residents of the City Centre Inn and Suites.

The Fire Department has taken the unusual but necessary steps ordering a closure of the entire City Centre Inn and Suites because of unsafe and unsanitary living conditions; the notice remains pending and will be in effect at 3 p.m. today, Thursday, July 23.

“The Department is limited in its legal authority to enter and inspect what are essentially people’s homes,” says Assistant Chief Yvonne Raymer.  “Once we were alerted by an anonymous complaint, we moved forward with the inspection process.  When it became clear there were immediate hazards because of unsafe and unclean living conditions, we quickly moved to close the entire facility.”

Approximately seven teams will conduct door-to-door visits to each room at the City Center Inn and Suites to support relocation of the residents.

The circulating teams will be comprised of:

• One health professional to conduct COVID screening and swab testing
• Two or more outreach workers to assess needs and determine appropriate housing options

Over 50 staff resources from the following agencies will be on site to support this process:

• 10 – 12  members from the Saskatoon Tribal Council
• Seven Ministry of Social Services members plus one supervisor
• Five members from the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA)
• Five members from The Salvation Army
• Three members from AIDS Saskatoon
• Three members from Saskatoon Housing Initiatives Partnership
• Two members from Saskatchewan Housing Authority
• Two members from the City of Saskatoon Emergency Management Organization
• One member from Public Health

The SHA Health Bus is one on site until 4:30 p.m.

Saskatoon Transit is providing transportation to the new locations for the residents. 

Canada Post is supporting the residents with change of address.

Meals, water and coffee for staff and displaced residents is being provided by the Salvation Army today.

Single adults will go either to a shelter, hotel or stay with family or friends for short term housing needs. 

The Saskatchewan Housing Authority is also on site to provide case management for longer term housing options.

Four families have already been relocated.

“The Fire Department is so grateful for the collaboration and support of our government and community based partners to make this happen in roughly 48 hours,” Raymer says.

Assistant Chief Raymer says the most recent visit to 610 Idylwyld Drive North which involved four Fire Inspectors revealed an immediate hazard with issues such as:

• unsafe and unsanitary conditions
• locked exit doors
• stairs at risk of collapse
• combustible material too close to buildings
• inaccessible fire extinguishers
• too few and uninspected extinguishers
• improper smoke alarm records
• failure to maintain fire alarm systems

The owner of the City Centre Inn and Suites has been ordered to remedy 34 deficiencies under the Property Maintenance and Nuisance Abatement Bylaw; and 27 deficiencies under the National Fire Code of Canada.

The closure notice – which is pending – is expected to be in effect by 3 p.m. today, Thursday, July 23.

Construction is moving along on schedule in all areas of the city this summer. In 2020, City Council invested over $61 million to rehabilitate and preserve road, water and sewer infrastructure to improve the safety and lifespan of the assets residents rely on every day.  

Key construction projects this year include:

• The replacement of aging water mains on 8^th Street. Work is on schedule and will wrap up in early fall. The project also includes sidewalk rehabilitation and road resurfacing. Other water main replacement projects are currently underway on Cumberland Avenue, Clarence Avenue, Avenue J North and Avenue C North.
• The second and final phase of the Sid Buckwold Bridge Rehabilitation project has reached the mid-way point and remains on track for completion in October. Once complete, it will have a wider walkway with taller barriers, improved drainage, and the bridge deck and ramps will be completely resurfaced.
• Road resurfacing on sections of College Drive, Taylor Street, and Boychuk Drive is complete. Crews are currently resurfacing on Circle Drive from the College Drive overpass to 14^th Street. This work is being done at night to minimize impacts to motorists.

The City has also invested $53 million toward the development of new infrastructure needed to support developing neighbourhoods. 2020 development projects include:

• The installation of a primary water main under Garvie Road that will service the Evergreen and Aspen Ridge neighbourhoods. This project wrapped up ahead of schedule and also included road resurfacing.
• The Taylor Street extension from Rosewood Gate North to Wess Road is expected to be complete and open to traffic in October.  
• The installation of sewer trunks to service the Brighton neighbourhood. This two year project began in the spring and will be finished in 2021.

“We started this construction season with an edited ‘to-do’ list in order to ensure the safety of workers and residents during the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Matt Jurkiewicz, Director of Construction & Design. “For example, we opted to put non-emergent lead line replacements that require workers to enter homes on hold this year, but the effects of the pandemic have not slowed down or interrupted all other planned work.”

The City continues to evaluate all projects as they proceed while continuing to follow the provincial Public Health Orders and recommendations of the Public Health Agency of Canada.

More information about 2020 construction projects is available at Saskatoon.ca/construction.

We thank you for your pave-tience during construction. We know it can be a real ‘pain in the asphalt.’

Now available online: the City’s annual Report on Service, Savings and Sustainability highlighting how City teams worked together to maximize value, minimize costs and find innovative ways to deliver better service to citizens in 2019.

“The report highlights our many achievements in 2019 and showcases the innovative projects, initiatives and partnerships City teams undertook last year,” says Celene Anger, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer. “I am proud of our City employees, they continue to move the organization towards becoming the best-managed city in Canada and show their commitment to our Strategic Goal of Continuous Improvement every day.”

Featured stories include numerous service improvements and enhancements focused on delivering quality and reliable front-line civic services, such as the achievement of Saskatoon Transit in converting all buses to fully accessible status through investments from all three levels of government.

Savings stories outline more than $1.1 Million in operational efficiencies through one-time and recurring annual savings. Sustainability accomplishments celebrate ongoing efforts to ensure Saskatoon grows in harmony with nature and plans for a sustainable future. Many initiatives featured helped to reduce the City’s environmental footprint and mitigate the risks posed by climate change. Other projects moved the City forward to create a more equitable and socially responsible community.

The report proudly presents the City’s ongoing commitment to Indigenous Initiatives and Reconciliation. Notable achievements in 2019 included:

• Establishing the Indigenous Technical Advisory Group (ITAG) to engage in meaningful dialogues on issues that impact Indigenous peoples in Saskatoon
• Creation of a new Indigenous Engagement  Employer Handbook to provide guidance and options for employers seeking to improve their recruitment outcomes
• Highest ever attendance at the 5^th Annual Wîcihitowin Conference
• Kahkewistahaw Signing Ceremony
• Publishing the 2^nd Edition of ayisiyiniwak: A Communications Guide

The 2019 Report on Service, Savings and Sustainability will be presented to the Governance and Priorities Committee on July 20, 2020.

View the full report here.

City Council yesterday approved at its Public Hearing a new Official Community Plan (OCP) for Saskatoon.

“The Official Community Plan is the collective long-term vision for Saskatoon that guides the physical, environmental, economic, social and cultural development of our community,” says Jeff Jorgenson, City Manager. “It provides both inspiration and direction to ensure the community’s vision for Saskatoon is integrated into all aspects of planning, decision-making and priority-setting for the City.”

The direction and goals outlined in the OCP are entrenched in law and recognized under the authority of the Planning and Development Act, 2007. The OCP works in conjunction with the City’s Strategic Plan and Multi-Year Business Plan and Budgeting process to create a strategic framework for how priorities are set and how the City achieves its goals.

The development of the new OCP was guided by the priorities of City Council, as established in the City’s Strategic Plan 2018-2021.

Lesley Anderson, the City’s Director of Planning and Development explains the new OCP consolidates and entrenches the direction provided in over fifty civic plans and policies that City Council has approved over the last several years including: the Growth Plan to Half a Million, Saskatoon Speaks – Community Vision, City Centre Plan, Culture Plan, Active Transportation Plan, Green Infrastructure Strategy, Recreation and Parks Master Plan and the Heritage Plan.

“The Official Community Plan acts as a connection point for the work of all City staff and this latest revision brings it up to date with the current direction of the City, reflecting where we are right now, what our vision is for the future, and how we will achieve that vision,” Anderson says.

As per the requirements laid out in the Planning and Development Act, 2007, the new OCP bylaw will be submitted to the Ministry of Government Relations for their review and approval.

For more information and to view a copy of the new OCP, visit saskatoon.ca/ocp.

The City Administration will be issuing tax credits and /or refunds for an overbilling related to the Library portion of the Property Tax bill for 2020.  City Council has the ability to issue credits to property owners, which for the average assessed home, is roughly two dollars for the year.

“With full transparency, City Administration wants to notify Saskatoon taxpayers of an overbilling of the 2020 property taxes for the Saskatoon Public Library totalling $270,914.25,” says Kerry Tarasoff, Chief Financial Officer.”

Each year, the Saskatoon Public Library (SPL) tax rate used for the City’s annual Property Tax Notice is calculated by multiplying the mill rate by the mill rate factors for each class of property.  The finalized mill rate is then determined by dividing the approved property levy budget by the City’s total taxable assessment.

The 2020 SPL tax rate included the combined budgets for the property levy and supplemental property levy - when only the property levy was to be billed.  Usually, the supplemental property levy amount is realized and collected throughout the year from separate billings as new construction is completed and that is why it is excluded from the regular tax billing process.

“It should be noted that City Administration has taken steps to improve the tax billing process to avoid a reoccurrence,” Tarasoff adds. “Once launched, our new enterprise resource planning initiative, Fusion, will also assist in avoiding this issue by streamlining efficiencies into the many manual processes currently in place at the City.”

The Chief Financial Officer will present City Council with a report at its meeting June 29, 2020.  It will detail options that, if approved, would clear the way for credits and/or refunds to residential and commercial property tax payers as follows:

1. For refunds under $10, customers would be able to choose whether to leave the credit on their property tax account until they receive their 2021 Property Tax Notice, or have the credit transferred to their utility account.

1. In certain cases, where the refund amount is greater than $10, a refund cheque would be issued.

View the full Administration Report here.

The City of Saskatoon invites residents to mark National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21) by accepting the ConnectR Reconciliation Challenge. This initiative is replacing this year’s Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation and events at Reconciliation Circle in Victoria Park, which have been cancelled in keeping with COVID-19 provincial health orders.

“We’re hoping individuals and organizations will see this ConnectR challenge as an opportunity to explore, learn, and take up their own Calls to Action” says Warren Isbister-Bear, the City’s Acting Director of Indigenous Initiatives. “There are many people that want to be a part of the Reconciliation journey but they aren’t sure how or where to start – this is the perfect place.”

What is the ConnectR Reconciliation Challenge?

Beginning June 21, visit BeAConnectR.org every week for eight weeks to choose a new commitment under the categories of Spirit, Head, Body, or Heart. Commitments include things such as:

• Attend an Indigenous cultural event
• Authentically engage with an Elder
• Learn more about a First Nations community near you
• Try an Indigenous recipe
• Watch an Indigenous film

Organizations and individuals can also join the ConnectR Challenge Facebook Group to share experiences and receive updates to help guide and support their journey. This group will provide the link to several scheduled video calls with Indigenous Elders, leaders, and youth for discussions to facilitate learning and reflection on Indigenous issues. Those not on Facebook can email beaconnectr@gmail.com to be added to a mailing list.

The ConnectR Reconciliation Challenge is an initiative of Reconciliation Saskatoon – a community of over 115 organizations, non-profits, businesses and partners who have come together towards one mission: to initiate a citywide conversation about Reconciliation and provide opportunities for everyone to engage in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. The City of Saskatoon co-chairs Reconciliation Saskatoon.

City Council at its May meeting deferred consideration of the new proposed Official Community Plan (OCP) Bylaw to its June Public Hearing scheduled for Monday, June 29, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. The deferment was recommended by Administration to allow for additional discussions with stakeholders prior to the opening of the Public Hearing.

The OCP is the collective long-term vision for Saskatoon, guiding the physical, environmental, economic, social and cultural development of the community. It provides both inspiration and direction through a comprehensive policy framework to ensure the community’s vision for Saskatoon is integrated into all aspects of planning, decision-making and priority-setting for the City. It brings focus and purpose to more detailed plans, including growth plans, financial plans and strategic action plans.

“The new proposed OCP provides the framework for the implementation of major priorities that have been endorsed by City Council through initiatives like the Growth Plan, the Strategic Plan, the Green Infrastructure Strategy, the Culture Plan and the Heritage Plan,” says Lesley Anderson, Director of Planning and Development.

“These and more than fifty other civic plans and policies have informed the content of the new proposed OCP. As a result, we’ve often called this project an exercise in consolidation and communication. It’s not intended to introduce new direction, but to entrench the directions that City Council has approved in recent years and ensure this direction is communicated in a way that is clear and engaging.”

City Council will consider all submissions related to the proposed OCP at its Public Hearing on Monday, June 29, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. To submit a letter or request to speak to City Council regarding the proposed OCP, visit saskatoon.ca/writetocouncil for more information.

The Public Hearing will be broadcast live on SHAW TV – Channel 10, Shaw BlueSky – Channel 105 and video-streamed on the City’s website at saskatoon.ca/meetings.

For more information and to view a copy of the new proposed OCP online, visit saskatoon.ca/ocp.

• Riversdale & George Ward Pools – targeting opening for the first week of July, dates and hours will be announced on saskatoon.ca/outdoorpools
• Lathey & Mayfair Pools - TBD

• Lakewood Civic Centre – pending announcement of Phase 4.2
• Shaw Centre – pending announcement of Phase 4.2
• Remaining Leisure Centres - TBD

Starting June 15 and in line with Phase 3 of the Re-Open Saskatchewan Plan, the City of Saskatoon is set to resume some front counter services for the Corporate Revenue Customer Service and Bill Payment Centre located in the lobby of City Hall. The City will offer in-person service in the lobby 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday, closed Holidays. City staff will dedicate the first hour of each day from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for assisting seniors, vulnerable persons and persons with a disability, however no one will be turned away during the first hour. Residents are still encouraged to use the City’s convenient online services to help limit lineups of people physically accessing City Hall.

“Like many other municipalities, we continue to follow the orders and advice of public health officials and continually reassess our services through each phase of the Re-Open Saskatchewan Plan to ensure we're meeting the expectations of our staff and citizens. With new safety protocols and procedures in place, we appreciate everyone's patience as we carefully open the City Hall lobby for citizens to access our Payment Centre, Customer Service and Collections counters starting next week,” says Mike Voth, Director of Corporate Revenue.

As City Hall operations are guided by the requirements of the current Provincial Health Order, physical distancing, enhanced sanitization protocols and limits of 15 people inside the City Hall lobby will be in place. The use of a non-medical face mask is encouraged if you are visiting City Hall. Please help all of us stay safe, do not enter City Hall if you have COVID-19 related symptoms or have been in contact with an ill individual.

Visitors to the City Hall lobby will notice it has been slightly modified with:

• New in-person safety measures that include a hand-sanitizing station before entry;
• Physical distancing and directional traffic signage reminders; and
• Physical plexiglass barriers installed at service counters to allow for the protection of our City employees and safer interaction with our customers.

In keeping with public health guidelines, member of the public entering the City Hall lobby should avoid touching shared surfaces in the building like handrails, garbage cans and benches, and also refrain from putting personal items onto the Corporate Revenue Customer Service counters.

The only public entrance to services in the lobby will be via City Hall’s main entrance doors located off 3^rd Avenue North. All customers will be greeted by a Customer Service Ambassador or Security staff member who will provide assistance and direction. With the lobby’s current limited capacity, customers may be asked to line-up physically distanced outside of the entrance doors until they can be safely accommodated. 

"We are entering Phase 3 keeping the health, safety and well-being of our employees and citizens our top priority," adds Voth. "City Hall hasn't been the same without the comings and goings of citizens since closing March 19, 2020. While our employees have been working hard providing great customer service online and by phone, especially on property tax-related questions, starting next week we’ll be ready to assist those customers who absolutely need to meet with us face-to-face.”

Some examples of in-person transactions offered at the Payment Centre include property tax and utility bill payments, and bylaw and parking ticket payments. Payment methods include cash, cheque or debit; credit cards are not accepted. The public will be kept updated as additional in-person services become available, visit saskatoon.ca for latest updates.

With the busy property tax payment season ahead, citizens may pay their 2020 Property Tax at their financial institution or use City Hall’s front entrance drop box to deliver a cheque. Whenever possible, the public is encouraged to email revenue@saskatoon.ca or contact a customer service representative at 306-975-2400 with property tax-related or other inquiries. Visit saskatoon.ca/propertytax for information on payment deadlines.

At this time, City Council meetings continue to be held via teleconference and streamed live at saskatoon.ca/live-meeting. A new online meeting platform enables the opportunity for continued public participation. 

Residents can expect information regarding the re-opening of additional City facilities in the days and weeks ahead. 

For the latest updates on City services including a list of convenient online services, please visit saskatoon.ca/covid-19. 

June is Parks and Recreation Month in Saskatchewan – it’s a time to recognize how parks and recreation opportunities make Saskatoon a great place to live, work, learn and play.

“Parks, open spaces and recreational opportunities are key to our quality of life in Saskatoon,” says Andrew Roberts, Director of Recreation and Community Development. “As a community we’ve seen the benefits most recently from being able to get out and spread out in over 200 parks. It’s timely to celebrate Parks and Recreation Month as more recreation spaces re-open throughout Saskatoon.”

Already, the City’s municipal golf courses, tennis and pickleball courts and Gordon Howe Campground are open for everyone to enjoy.

Now, following the guidelines announced by the Government of Saskatchewan on Monday, June 8, City playground structures will open starting Friday, June 12.

Crews are working to remove the existing closed signage and tape at over 250 playgrounds throughout Saskatoon.

While many of the City’s recreational facilities cannot reopen until Phase 4 of the Province’s Re-Open Saskatchewan plan, you can keep up-to-date on re-openings at saskatoon.ca/reopensaskatoon

Residents are reminded that public health orders are still in place, practice good hand hygiene, and to maintain a minimum distance of two metres between others outside your extended household.

The Canadian Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA), along with the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association (SPRA) and other Provincial/Territorial Parks and Recreation Associations across Canada, celebrates the month of June as Parks and Recreation Month.

The month provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of parks and recreation and the role it plays in the quality of life for all Canadians. To find out more, visit spra.sk.ca.

City Council officially approved at its special meeting today the reinstatement of public pay parking and other parking enforcement measures, including parking time limits and the Residential Parking Program (RPP), starting Monday, May 25, 2020.

While the City continues to do its part to flatten the curve of COVID-19 cases in Saskatoon, it also wants to help boost the economy and support business in our community. So, with the return of retail commercial activity as part of the Province’s Re-Open Saskatchewan plan, the reinstatement of public pay parking requirements and enforcement will help ensure parking space turnover for customers and businesses in high-demand pay parking zones.

The City encourages customers to use the WayToPark app as a no-touch way to pay for parking. If the app is not an option and you must use a FlexParking station for payment, please ensure you follow public health guidelines when touching shared surfaces in public, such as using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer or washing your hands as soon as you are able.

The reinstatement of other parking restrictions, including the on-street parking time limit of 72 hours and the RPP, will also take effect starting Monday, May 25, 2020.

Residents in RPP zones are asked to use their recently expired permits until new permits are available for sale. Those without an existing permit are invited to contact Customer Service at revenue@saskatoon.ca or 306-975-2400. All eligibility requirements remain in effect and proof of residency, as well as vehicle and license information will be required when requesting RPP permits. Residents will receive notification once 2020-2021 RPP permits are available for purchase.

The City will continue to honour expired Parking Permits for People with a Disability (hologram stickers). These permits are used in conjunction with a valid SaskAbilities permit to allow holders to park in pay parking zones without further payment. Those without an existing permit are invited to contact Customer Service at revenue@saskatoon.ca or 306-975-2400 to arrange for a temporary permit. Eligibility requirements remain in effect and proof of a valid SaskAbilities permit will be required.

For more information on parking in Saskatoon, visit saskatoon.ca/parking.

As gardening season gets into full swing, the City of Saskatoon and Meewasin want to remind everyone of the importance of caring for our river system by helping to monitor the materials that end up in our storm sewers.

Everything that either runs off the road or is deposited in storm drain catch basins ends up back in the South Saskatchewan River. It is everyone's responsibility to make sure that only clean water and rain water re-enter the watershed.

The City, Meewasin and the South Saskatchewan Watershed Stewards are also working on a number of storm water projects to help clean water before it drains into the river. Near the Northeast Swale, for example, there are a number of natural vegetation floating islands that filter pollutants with the help of plants.

The City will also check the riverbank for any possible contaminants.  Twice this spring, most recently last week, the City investigated concerns of a potential river spill. Nothing was identified which indicated petroleum hydrocarbons.

However, if you discover a shiny film on the water surface, it may be naturally-occurring. A bacterial film can be caused by bacteria reacting with minerals in the water. The smell and look of a substance can also help in distinguishing between bacteria and petroleum hydrocarbons.

The City investigates all reports of potential spills.

Please help protect our South Saskatchewan River system by reporting any spills or discharges to the river. Please note that any spills that are not drifting and do not pose any threat to life, should be reported to the City’s Customer Service Centre at 306-975-2476.

For situations involving unidentifiable substances, drifting substances, or if the spill is part of a major accident or poses a threat to life, please call 911.

City Council’s Governance and Priorities Committee (GPC) endorsed at its meeting today recommendations to reinstate public pay parking and other parking enforcement measures starting Monday, May 25, 2020. A special meeting of City Council will be called for later this week to formally approve these recommendations.

While the City is doing its part to flatten the curve of COVID-19 cases in Saskatoon, it also wants to do what it can to boost the economy and support business in our community. With the return of retail commercial activity as part of the Government of Saskatchewan’s Re-Open Saskatchewan Plan, a report to GPC recommended that pay parking requirements and enforcement including parking time limits be reinstated to help ensure parking turnover for customers and businesses in high-demand pay parking zones.

The report also recommended other parking enforcement measures be reinstated, such as the on-street parking time limit of 72 hours in residential areas, to help manage parking turnover, maintain traffic flow and allow for emergency access.

GPC approved an additional recommendation to reinstate parking restrictions and enforcement in Residential Parking Program (RPP) zones effective May 25, 2020. The City will honour expired RPP Permits until a process is put in place for renewals.

The City will continue to honour expired hologram stickers used in conjunction with SaskAbilities parking permits to allow those with a valid SaskAbilities permit to park in pay parking zones without further payment.

Following extensive consultations with veterinarians and our animal care team, the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo (Zoo) had the sad responsibility of euthanizing one of the grey wolves named Zeppelin on Thursday.

“It is always difficult to make a decision like this when it comes to the animals that we care for,” says Zoo Manager Jeff Mitchell. “Zeppelin had an amazing life here at the Zoo and will be remembered for his spunkiness and adventurous nature”.

Over the past few years, Zeppelin had been facing some serious arthritis issues that were being managed under veterinarian care. In recent months, his condition continued to deteriorate and his ability to cope with the arthritis under medication was no longer effective at keeping him pain-free.

The average life expectancy of a grey wolf is six to eight years in the wild and up to 15 years in zoological facilities. Buddy, Zeppelin’s long-time companion, is the same age and showing similar age related issues.

“We know that this will be an especially tough time for Buddy,” says Mitchell. “We are going to do everything we can to help him adjust to being a lone wolf. Our animal care team has developed a plan to give Buddy as much attention and enrichment as he needs”.

Zeppelin and Buddy first met after joining the Zoo family in 2007. Although the pair were not litter mates, Buddy and Zeppelin quickly bonded and became life-long companions.  

City Council will consider a new proposed Official Community Plan (OCP) for Saskatoon at its Public Hearing on Monday, May 25, 2020, at 6:00 p.m.

The OCP is the collective long-term vision for Saskatoon, guiding the physical, environmental, economic, social and cultural development of the community. It provides both inspiration and direction through a comprehensive policy framework to ensure the community’s vision for Saskatoon is integrated into all aspects of planning, decision-making and priority-setting for the City. It brings focus and purpose to more detailed plans, including growth plans, financial plans and strategic action plans.

The development of the proposed OCP was guided by the priorities of City Council, as established in the City’s Strategic Plan 2018-2021. The proposed OCP, Bylaw No. 9700 updates the current OCP, Bylaw No. 8769 to reflect direction provided in guiding documents that City Council has approved over the last several years. These guiding documents include, but are not limited to, the Growth Plan to Half a Million, Saskatoon Speaks – Community Vision, City Centre Plan, Culture Plan, Active Transportation Plan, Green Infrastructure Strategy, Recreation and Parks Master Plan and the Heritage Plan.

A copy of the proposed OCP can be viewed online at saskatoon.ca/ocp.

To submit a letter or request to speak to City Council regarding the proposed OCP, please visit saskatoon.ca/writetocouncil for more information. All submissions received by the City Clerk by 10:00 a.m. on Monday, May 25, 2020, will be forwarded to City Council for consideration.

Members of the public are able to view the Public Hearing broadcast live on SHAW TV – Channel 10, Shaw BlueSky – Channel 105 and video-streamed on the City’s website at saskatoon.ca/meetings starting at 6:00 p.m. on the scheduled day.

For more information and to subscribe to updates, visit saskatoon.ca/ocp.