News Releases

The Saskatoon Fire Department would like to remind the community of safe practices for purchasing, enjoying, and disposing of fireworks. This Canada Day, Sunday, July 1^st, low-hazard fireworks can only be discharged on private property between the hours of dusk and 11:00 p.m.

Low-hazard fireworks are designed for public recreational use and include some roman candles and sparklers, among others, and travel less than 50m (160ft) high.

High-hazard fireworks are designed for professionals and can only be purchased by persons holding a valid Fireworks Supervisor – Level I or Level II card issued by Natural Resources Canada.

The Saskatoon Fire Department would like to remind residents and visitors of the risks and obligations associated with fireworks:

• Carefully read and follow the manufacturer instructions,

• Exercise increased caution when handling and discharging any type of firework,

• Choose your location wisely, noting that fireworks can only be discharged on private property,

• Ensure your location is free of overhead obstructions, is clear side-to-side, and is a safe distance from combustible materials,

• Familiarize yourself with the space requirements for the type of firework being discharged; requirements vary depending on the firework type,

• Be sure to properly stabilize the firework according to manufacturer direction, and

• Keep in mind that you are solely responsible for any debris that may land on your spectators or another’s property.

After dusk, when you are ready to discharge the fireworks, ensure that it is not windy, that everyone under the age of 18 is supervised by a parent or guardian, and that you always light the fuse at its tip. Other than sparklers, never light or hold a lit firework in your hand. Always have a water supply available when discharging fireworks.

Wait at least 30 minutes before beginning the clean-up process. At that time, it is a good idea to dispose of used fireworks and debris in a pail of water. Never try to relight or fix the fuse on fireworks that didn’t go off.

Always be extremely careful when discharging fireworks. The debris or smoldering embers could cause injuries, property damage, and/or fires.

The Saskatoon Fire Department wishes everyone a safe and happy Canada Day. Currently, there is no fire ban in effect for Saskatoon. It’s always recommended that residents and visitors celebrate at public firework displays that are hosted by a trusted organization; however, if you choose to celebrate Canada Day by sending off your own fireworks, please follow all safety practices, and only send them off between dusk and 11:00 p.m.

On June 25, 2018 City Council approved the recommendations to move forward with the development of a Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) waste utility and city-wide organics program, both projected to launch before the end of 2019.

“The decision by City Council to move forward with these programs is an important step toward better community-wide waste management,” says Brenda Wallace, Director of Environmental and Corporate Initiatives. “The associated improvement to our waste diversion performance  will save future generations the costs of building a new landfill and recover valuable resources that lead to jobs and economic growth from what has previously been simply wasted.”

Additional details of the recommendations can be found in the June 25, 2018 report to City Council (Recommended Changes to Waste Management in Saskatoon) and include:

• that organics be collected in a single green cart for co-mingled food and yard waste;
• that waste utility fees be based on cart sizes (lower prices for smaller carts);
• and that no changes be made to the existing recycling program.

“These recommendations were informed by more than 5,000 curbside residents who participated in our community engagement events and online survey. There was a wide spectrum of responses that will help us design better programs,” Wallace says. “We want the program to be an improvement over the current situation for everyone and considering fairness and equity for all demographics is an important part of the program design. Further details on how these programs meet affordability principles will be put forward in September.”

Administration will report on more details of the curbside PAYT and city-wide organics program in September 2018.  Administration is also engaging with the Multi-unit and Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional sectors, and will be tabling reports on how to manage and divert waste from these sectors throughout the rest of 2018.

For more information regarding curbside engagement results and the recommendations brought forward, visit: saskatoon.ca/engage/saskatoon-talks-trash-curbside

For more information on the City’s Waste Diversion Plan, visit: saskatoon.ca/wastediversion

Saskatoon Transit has chosen the winners of its first Student Art Contest. The contest was open to all grade 3 and 7 students in Saskatoon.

“In an effort to create a greater sense of community we decided to host a Student Art contest, where the winner’s artwork would be displayed on our buses throughout the summer,” said Jim McDonald, Director, Saskatoon Transit. “Working with both school boards, we decided grades 3 and 7 would be most appropriate based on the theme of Active Transportation.” 

Grade 7 students, Nimarta, Nicoletta, and Zehua from Sylvia Fedoruk School and Mrs. Liebrecht’s grade 3 class from College Park School are this year’s best of show winners. The winning pieces were chosen by a member of Paved Arts based on how well they reflected the “Active Transportation” theme.  These pieces were selected from 130 entries from 19 schools.

“The opportunity to share art with the community reinforces to children and youth the joy art brings to others,” said Lisa Fleming, Superintendent of Education for Saskatoon Public Schools. “Art creates a sense of belonging and appreciation for creative expression. Thank you to Saskatoon Transit for inviting our children to share their gifts with the greater community.”

The winning artwork will be displayed on the side of Saskatoon Transit buses travelling across Saskatoon for the months of July and August and will receive $375 from our prize sponsors, UFCW 248P & UFCW 649, My Private Wealth, and Galon Insurance.

“Both students and teachers had fun with this initiative,” said Scott Gay, Superintendent of Learning, Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools. “Anytime our partnerships can provide tools to teach students in a new and unique way, it helps keep the classroom environment interesting for students. And learning more about active ways to get around in our communities is positive from the perspectives of sustainability and health and wellness. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

“We hope to turn this contest into a tradition that helps promote the use of public transportation,” says Jim McDonald, Director of Saskatoon Transit. 

From now until the snow flies, men and women wearing reflective vests and hard hats will be working alongside drivers to complete as much maintenance, repair and construction as possible on roadways and other City infrastructure. The difference between these people and those who are driving, is the amount of protection they have in a collision.

“Our staff come to work for many reasons like all of us, but at the end of the day they look forward to going home and seeing their loved ones,” says Angela Gardiner, Acting General Manager of Transportation & Utilities. “Work zone signs and barriers are in place to let drivers know where they must not enter in order to keep these workers safe. It’s your responsibility as vehicle operator to watch for signs and respect work zones.”

Work zones are clearly marked with orange signs to show you're entering a road construction area and white signs showing the reduced speed limit. Drivers are required to slow to 60 km/h or whatever speed is posted when you enter the work area, and follow the directions of all signs in the zone. In residential areas, where the speed limit is 50 km/h, drivers are expected to slow down when passing workers.

“Fines double for speeding in a work zone and the Saskatoon Police Service will be watching for this,” says Saskatoon Police Service Traffic Unit Staff Sergeant Patrick Barbar. “Driving 20 km/h over the speed limit in a work zone will cost you $440 and 40 km/h over will cost $1008.”

The Saskatoon Police Service Traffic Unit will be patrolling various types of City work zones and workers are encouraged to report license plate numbers to the Saskatoon Police Service, which will follow up with the vehicle owner.

“Aside from people speeding past or driving through work zone barriers, our people report hearing threats and profanities from drivers,” says Gardiner. “Verbal and physical abuse of City and contractor workers is not acceptable and to stop this behaviour we will actively pursue court action to the extent of the law.”

The City is launching a public awareness campaign “At what cost?” to remind drivers that they put lives at risk when they are distracted or speed while passing construction work zones.

Visit saskatoon.ca/respectworkzones for more information.

The South Saskatchewan River is a constantly moving water course. Citizens and visitors experiencing the recent hot temperatures are reminded that Bylaw 4433 prohibits swimming in the South Saskatchewan River within city limits.

The Saskatchewan Water Security Agency also forecasted that water levels will drop by an average of one metre in the coming weeks.

“The South Saskatchewan River is unpredictable and dangerous,” says Assistant Chief Wayne Rodger. “With changing currents and water levels, both the bank edges and riverbed are considered extremely hazardous.  Obstacles such as fallen branches, broken concrete, and discarded debris can pose a threat to anyone or anything in or near the water.”

The Saskatoon Fire Department requests boaters taking to the water make certain the vessel is in good condition.  Boaters should practice what to do in the event of an emergency before going on the water, wear an approved personal floatation device, monitor weather conditions, leave a travel plan and obey all local laws and regulations.

Additionally, The South Saskatchewan River is equipped with a weir to alter the flow and discharge of water along the river; this barrier produces a powerful backwash of water that is capable of trapping objects and people.

The weir is not a recreational feature of the South Saskatchewan River, it must never be approached and should only be viewed from a safe distance.

In the event that you witness someone in distress in the river, the Saskatoon Fire Department would like to remind you of the following tips for helping others in distress:

• Call 911 immediately to report the incident, noting details about the individual, time, and situation
• Keep track of recognizable landmarks around the area where the individual was first seen in distress in the water
• Coach the individual from the shore edge on the below noted tips for water self-rescue

In the event that you are in distress in the river, the Saskatoon Fire Department would like to remind you of the following tips for water self-rescue:

• Stay calm; Don’t fight the current
• Keep your head above the water
• Move with the current as you work your way to the shore edge
• Remove any heavy or bulky clothing items

Always be cautious near larger bodies of water. In an emergency, call 911 immediately.

Major repairs are planned on Circle Drive over 33^rd Street this summer. Following the Canada Day weekend, the entire northbound overpass will undergo a two and a half month long rehabilitation.

“The northbound structure over 33^rd Street was built in the 1990s,” says Todd Grabowski, Manager of Asset Preservation for Bridges. “During the City’s annual deck testing program, we could see that it is at an age where proactive work is necessary to ensure it continues to serve its purpose for years to come.”

The rehabilitation project will include asphalt removal and replacement, and repairs to the deck and expansion joints, among other things. The work is extensive and will affect northbound traffic on Circle Drive. Southbound traffic will not be affected by the rehabilitation project.

“Beginning on July 3, drivers heading northbound on Circle Drive can expect delays at 33^rd Street, especially during the weekday morning peak times, as traffic will be reduced to one lane,” says Grabowski.

The lane reduction is expected to slow down northbound traffic on Circle Drive, but not completely stop it. Even so, it is expected that a significant number of drivers will divert to alternate routes, so the City will be adjusting traffic signals to accommodate drivers opting to detour or exit off the northbound ramp at 33^rd Street. 

Every day, approximately 20,000 vehicles pass over the northbound lanes of Circle Drive at 33^rd Street.   

A record crowd of over 4,000 people gathered today in Victoria Park for the third annual “Rock Your Roots” Walk for Reconciliation. The event kicked off at 10:00 a.m. with participants and groups coming together to celebrate their unique cultural heritage by holding or wearing traditional symbols of their culture or organizations.

The theme of the walk this year is “'Planting the Seed' - by walking together, we plant the seeds of reconciliation—honouring survivors and answering the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's Calls to Action as we grow a more inclusive community."

The walk culminated at 11:30 a.m. and joined up with National Indigenous People Day celebrations which included free lunch, special guest speakers, live entertainment and fun for the whole family hosted by the Saskatoon Indian & Métis Friendship Centre.

Last month, the Saskatoon Community Foundation made a four year commitment to the Rock Your Roots walk, providing funding through to 2021.

The “Rock Your Roots” Walk for Reconciliation is one of a number of events organized by Reconciliation Saskatoon, an 88 member initiative of 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.

For more information, visit facebook.com/ReconciliationSaskatoon or www.otc.ca.  

The City of Saskatoon’s commitment to the TRC’s Calls to Action supports the City’s Corporate Strategic Goal of Quality of Life by identifying actions for enhancing Aboriginal well-being and participation in our community.

The North Commuter Parkway Bridge Naming Steering Committee announced “Chief Mistawasis” (miss-tuh-WAH’-sis) as the recommended name of the North Commuter Parkway Bridge.

“As we come together to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day in Victoria Park and get involved in “Rock Your Roots” Walk for Reconciliation it’s fitting that we have chosen to name the North Commuter Bridge after Chief Mistawasis to acknowledge the contributions of those who came before us and strived to create a better future,” said Harry LaFond, Executive Director, Office of the Treaty Commissioner.

The announcement was made prior to the kick-off of the Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation and National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations at Reconciliation Circle in Victoria Park today. The final recommendation for the name Chief Mistawasis to be applied to the bridge will be presented to City Council in August for formal approval.

“The process to bring us to this day has been one of learning and growth,” said Mayor Charlie Clark. “Reconciliation is a journey, and it is a journey that the City of Saskatoon is dedicated to continuing as we seek to bridge the divides within our community. Our Elders have been appealing to us to treat one another as relatives, which is a powerful starting place for building a stronger Treaty relationship for future generations. Thank you to the Elders, Survivors, the bridge naming committee and the entire community for the support and advice in our journey.”

Chief Mistawasis, also known as Pierre Belanger, was one of the most visionary northern plains Indigenous leaders. He was known in the Saskatoon area in hunting bison and played a major role in Treaty 6 negotiations in 1876.

“Prior to, and following Treaty No. 6, Chief Mistawasis was a bridge to changing times between people, communities and Nations,” said Chief Daryl Watson. “Today, Mistawasis Nêhiyawak follows Chief Mistawasis' legacy and belief in treaties, partnerships, alliances, friendships in sharing territories and all that Creator provides for us all.”

To celebrate this honour, Mistawasis Nêhiyawak will create an education campaign to tell the story of Chief Mistawasis’ role in moving Treaty 6 forward, in particular how he spoke for the people involved in the treaty, both First Nations and Métis, and his vision of the future.

Chief Mistawasis was one of over 400 names that were gathered from the community as part of an extensive community engagement exercise that began in July 2017. A key focus of the naming process was to educate the community on Indigenous people’s history, culture and contributions, which included the creation of four educational vignettes, school lesson plans and tool kits.

The community-led project responds directly to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action #79: Participate in a strategy to commemorate Aboriginal People’s history and contributions to Canada.

The North Commuter Parkway Bridge remains on schedule to open in October 2018.

The NCP Bridge Naming Committee consists of community leaders from the Office of the Treaty Commissioner, Central Urban Métis Federation Incorporated, Saskatoon Tribal Council, Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations and the City of Saskatoon.

Under the City of Saskatoon’s Strategic Goal of Quality of Life, this project supports the recognition of our built, natural, and cultural heritage.  The naming of civic facilities celebrates the history, environment, and outstanding contributions of our diverse community.

“The Coming Spring” by accomplished Canadian artist, Gordon Reeve, was unveiled in Victoria Park today.  The work was commissioned by the Saskatoon Tribal Council and the City, with funding from the Government of Canada through the Canada 150 Fund.  It was developed with extensive input from the community and guidance from Elders and Indian residential school survivors.

The artwork’s creation is in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action No. 79:  Participate in a strategy to commemorate the contributions and history of Aboriginal peoples to Canada.

“The Government of Canada is committed to working on meaningful and lasting reconciliation,” says the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage. “As we marked Canada 150 in 2017, it was important to consider and learn about all the events that shaped our country, including some of the darker chapters in our history.  It is through telling and experiencing these stories—our stories—that we learn from each other, reconcile ourselves with the past, and move toward a future together.  The Coming Spring:  Where Our Paths Cross reconciliation commemorative artwork will bring together Indigenous Peoples and all Canadians to remember, learn, and share, and will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.”

“We are honoured to have had the opportunity to work on this significant art project for the past two years with our partners,” says Saskatoon Tribal Council Chief Mark Arcand.  “We acknowledge that a lot of work has been done and still needs to be done in regards to healing the past, but with this present era of Reconciliation, we are all working towards the same goal to move ahead and improve the quality of life for our entire community.”

The 27-foot tall arch and two spires are constructed entirely of stainless steel that reflects the sun and moon.  The longer 47-foot spire, pointing north, symbolically represents the First Nations’ long history.  The 39-foot spire, pointing south, symbolically represents the history of the Métis Nation.  Suspended high on each spire are moving chimes.  The rustling and bell-like sounds the chimes make suggest the voices of children heard at a distance, representing the children taken by the residential system from all of the communities in Treaty Six Territory. 

“Our paths cross in Reconciliation Circle as we unveil ‘The Coming Spring’ commemorative art project,” says Shirley Isbister, President of the Central Urban Métis Federation Incorporated.  “The artist, Gordon Reeve, has brought a true spirit of community inclusion into this monumental piece.  The jingles will ring out the voices of children, women, families, and our diverse community.”

“The Coming Spring” is located within Reconciliation Circle in Victoria Park, north of the festival site and east of Spadina Crescent West.  The location was identified by First Nations and Métis Elders as having particular significance because it has been the site of two reconciliation gatherings, is large enough to accommodate community events, and has a view of the park, trees, and South Saskatchewan River.

“‘The Coming Spring’ makes a meaningful statement at this beautiful location on our cherished riverbank in Reconciliation Circle at Victoria Park,” says Mayor Charlie Clark.  “This sculpture creates an opportunity for present and future generations to reflect on where we have come from and where we are going as a city, a city where the paths have crossed between First Nations, Métis, and generation after generation of immigrants seeking a good life here, free from persecution.  This year, as thousands gather in Reconciliation Circle on National Indigenous Peoples Day, the messages of reconciliation and committing ourselves to a stronger future together will be even more poignant because of this piece of art.”

Since 2015, the City has been working with the Saskatoon Tribal Council; Central Urban Métis Federation Incorporated; Office of the Treaty Commissioner; and other community groups, leaders, and institutions in Saskatchewan to promote reconciliation.

Residents are reminded that the third annual “Rock Your Roots” Walk for Reconciliation and National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations take place tomorrow, June 21, in Victoria Park.

For more information on “The Coming Spring” and other public artwork, please visit saskatoon.ca/publicart.

People of all ages, cultural backgrounds and abilities, are invited to join the third annual “Rock Your Roots” Walk for Reconciliation and National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations in Victoria Park on Thursday, June 21.

The “Rock Your Roots” Walk begins at 10:00 a.m. at the top of Victoria Park. We recommend people arrive at 9.30 a.m. for marshalling and a communal warm up exercise. The walk culminates at 11:30 a.m. and joins up with National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations, which includes free lunch, special guest speakers, live entertainment and fun for the whole family.

This year our theme is “Planting the Seed”. By walking together, we plant the seeds of reconciliation - honouring survivors and responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action as we grow a more inclusive community.

Participants and groups are encouraged (but not required) to “Rock Your Roots” by holding or wearing traditional symbols of your culture to show and share the diversity within our community.

SCHEDULE

7:30 a.m. Pipe Ceremony – open to all. *Information on Pipe Ceremony protocol can be found on page 24 of the ayisīnowak guide on Saskatoon.ca/ayisīnowak.

9:30 a.m. Gather at the start line for a group warm up exercise!

10:00 a.m. “Rock Your Roots” Walk for Reconciliation begins. Along the way, you’ll see the Chinese Martial Arts Academy, Curtis Peeteetuce, German Junior Folk Dance, India School of Dance and Music, Taste of China Academy and others perform!

11:30 a.m. Grand Entry of dignitaries and special guests.

12:30 – 4:00 p.m. Free lunch, cultural entertainment and family fun as part of National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations hosted by Saskatoon Indian and Métis Friendship Centre.

Celebrations are free and open to all. Golf carts will be available for those unable to walk.

For more information, including a map of the Walk, visit Facebook.com/ReconciliationSaskatoon or OTC.ca.

The City of Saskatoon’s commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action supports the City’s strategic goal of Quality of Life by identifying actions for enhancing Aboriginal well-being and participation in our community.

As part of the Building Better Roads program, the City is undertaking major improvement work on a key stretch of Idylwyld Drive, between 33^rd and 39^th streets. The improvements include road resurfacing as well as water and sewer upgrades.

“This resurfacing project will improve the roadway along Idylwyld Drive southbound and the 33^rd Street and Idylwyld Drive intersection,” says Celene Anger, Director of Construction & Design. “We’re also taking this opportunity to remove outdated lines that connect adjacent properties to the City’s watermain and replace them with new infrastructure. This work is in line with the City’s accelerated lead line replacement program and will reduce the susceptibility of watermain breakage, extending the life of the roadway.”

The old lead line connections will be replaced with lines made of materials that are more reliable. The new water lines are made of Polyethylene and the sewer lines are constructed from Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC).

The City is also working with property owners adjacent to this stretch of Idylwyld Drive to have any outdated pipes in their home or business replaced at the same time. This is more economical than undertaking the private property replacements separately.

Following the completion of the underground water and sewer work, road resurfacing will take place on Idylwyld Drive southbound from 33^rd to 39^th streets and on Idylwyld Drive northbound from 33^rd to 36^th streets. This work will include the intersection at 33^rd Street and Idylwyld Drive. These sections of roadway will be in smooth ‘like new’ condition following the completion of work.

Weather permitting, Idylwyld Drive construction is set to begin on Monday, June 18, 2018. Provided there are no unforeseen complications and the weather cooperates, the work should take approximately three weeks to complete.

The work is being planned in an effort to reduce the impacts to adjacent properties and Idylwyld Drive traffic. For example, intersection work at Idylwyld Drive and 33^rd Street will be completed over weekends and construction work will be phased (completed in sections) so that at least one lane of Idylwyld Drive can remain open in both directions for the duration of the project.

Road users can expect turning restrictions and lane reductions on Idylwyld Drive between 33^rd and 39^th streets beginning June 18, 2018. The City is advising residents to expect delays or to choose an alternate route if possible.

Bus routes along the construction route may also be affected throughout the project. During construction, residents are advised to check the posted signage for alternate bus stop locations or to check the Transit App.

More information about the 2018 Building Better Roads plan is available at saskatoon.ca/betterroads. You can also access Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/servicealerts or follow @YXEServiceAlert on Twitter.

The City thanks drivers for their patience while this necessary work is carried out. Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews and, for everyone’s safety, obey all detours, signs, and barriers.

Saskatoon is re-imagining how we grow and move around our city by addressing our community and infrastructure needs for transit, cycling, walking and other modes of transportation in support of the City’s Plan for Growth.

“We’re at a critical time in considering how we’re going to develop our city for the future. The input we’ve received from members of the community has helped to shape the plan for Bus Rapid Transit, and we’re looking forward to continue working with citizens to identify the best ways to implement it in the coming years,” says Lesley Anderson, Director of Planning & Development. “This Special meeting will help lay out all the information in one place on both the Transit Plan and BRT, as well as the Downtown AAA Cycling Network”

Over the past eight months, the City has engaged with community members and stakeholders regarding the new Transit Plan – based around Bus Rapid Transit and the Downtown All Ages and Abilities Cycling Network. The next step in the engagement process for these projects involves Civic Administration presenting associated information reports at a Special Governance and Priorities Committee meeting on June 20, 2018.

In preparation for growth, citizens should be aware that their voice is significant in shaping these projects. Whether it’s through submitting comments and/or speaking in person, every form of engagement is essential in connecting to the big picture, which is presenting these projects to City Council for approval in Fall/Winter 2018.  

“We are at a very exciting time in our history, developing mobility options for customers of the future,” says Michael Moellenbeck, Acting Director of Saskatoon Transit. “Bus Rapid Transit, the Transit Plan and the AAA Cycling Network are initiatives about which we have had great conversations within the community and we are using those comments to adjust proposals into plans. There will be more engagement required as we work to develop the final plans but this special meeting will provide us with an excellent starting point.”

The selected streets for the downtown AAA cycling network are: 19th Street, 23rd Street, 4th Avenue, and Idylwyld Drive.

“These streets were selected based on a detailed understanding of trade-offs between the variety of users and functions these downtown streets serve, striving to achieve a balance amongst all users,” says Jay Magus, Acting Director of Transportation.

“The proposed Downtown AAA cycling network introduces a three-and-a-half kilometre network of downtown cycling facilities, providing an interconnected system of facilities that is comfortable and attractive for most users.”

Should citizens want to submit a letter or have their voice heard during this event, it is asked that they submit a “request to speak” using the following link: https://www.saskatoon.ca/write-letter-councilcommittees 

Plan for Growth projects are funded in part under the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund (PTIF) from the Government of Canada. The Government of Saskatchewan administers federal PTIF funding in the Province. The City is funding the remainder of the Plan.

To learn more about the Transit Plan, visit saskatoon.ca/transit-plan  and for the Downtown All Ages and Abilities Cycling Network, visit saskatoon.ca/AAA-Cycling-Network

Learn more about engagement opportunities by visiting saskatoon.ca/engage.

Dori Krahn of the Saskatoon Fire Department, has been selected by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to receive a Star Scholarship Award for her dedication in effectively reaching the public with fire safety education. As an award recipient, Dori is currently attending NFPA’s Conference & Expo Spotlight on Public Education (SOPE), a 2-day event for fire and life safety educators and others interested in public education and community risk reduction, in Las Vegas, Nevada. She is participating in training sessions, conference events, and a networking reception. NFPA’s Conference & Expo serves as the premier annual event for fire, electrical, and building safety.

“Dori has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to reducing Saskatoon residents’ risk to fire and related hazards,” said Laura King, regional education specialist for NFPA’s Canadian Public Education Division. “She is truly deserving of this award, and we’re thrilled to have her attend this year’s conference.”

Assistant Chief Wayne Rodger added “Dori identified a need within our community and has championed a program that meets the needs for older adults, including education, recommendations on fire and fall prevention as well as forging solid relationships with the Saskatoon Council on Ageing and the Saskatchewan Health Authority to provide further health care services.”

NFPA chose 12 scholarship recipients from the United States and Canada who provide consistent and innovative outreach to their community; actively use and implement NFPA resources and programs including Learn Not to Burn®, Remembering When™, or Fire Prevention Week; promote NFPA in their community, state or province; and/or are new, enthusiastic, fire and life safety educators interested in learning about NFPA programs and materials.

Winners were selected by NFPA’s Regional Education Specialists and Canadian Public Education Representative. Each scholarship is valued at approximately $2,000 and includes travel, conference registration, and lodging.

On behalf of the Saskatoon Fire Department, congratulations to Dori Krahn on your national recognition and continued commitment to our community!

​Today, 19 high school students will successfully graduate from the FIRE Cadet Program. Each of these students has demonstrated responsibility, respect, teamwork, community involvement, pride, and leadership to get to this point.

The FIRE Cadet Program is supported by the Saskatoon Public Schools and Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools, and is part of the Career Education Program at Bedford Road Collegiate, Mount Royal Collegiate, Tommy Douglas Collegiate, E.D. Feehan Catholic High School, Bethlehem Catholic High School, Bishop James Mahoney Catholic High School, and Holy Cross Catholic High School. Students from these schools applied to be a part of the program and were selected after an interview process.

“The FIRE Cadets have displayed impressive levels of teamwork and growth throughout their time with the Saskatoon Fire Department. The students came from a diverse set of backgrounds and interests, but quickly developed a sense of comradery. It’s a unique and rewarding experience to help lead these students and watch them work together to achieve various tasks and challenges” said Holly Lindberg, one of the firefighters leading the program.

Throughout the eight week program cadets learned to operate fire hoses, hydrants, fire trucks, and an aerial. They gained technical rope, ladder, extrication, dangerous goods, firefighter self-rescue, and water rescue skills. Cadets also received the CPR Level C and valuable experience giving fire safety presentations.

Brandon Bishop with the Saskatoon Fire Department states, “The support we have received from our community has been instrumental in the success of our students and the program. Don Flaman from Flaman Sales provided us with a trailer for the entire length of the program, SGI provided us with cars to allow our students to practice their extrication skills, and FFUN Motor Group provided the program with a van to shuttle the students to and from training sessions”.

Congratulations to each student who is graduating from the FIRE Cadet Program today!

On June 11, Administration will bring a series of recommendations around curbside waste management to the Environment, Utilities, and Corporate Services Committee of Council. Administration is recommending that a Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) waste utility and city-wide organics program be launched together before the end of 2019.

“A successful waste diversion program, which includes more comprehensive organics and recycling programs, is critical to deferring the closure of the landfill,” says Brenda Wallace, Director of Environmental and Corporate Initiatives. “It would cost an estimated 26 million dollars to close the existing landfill and 100 million dollars to establish a new one. We are excited and optimistic that so many of our engagement participants share our vision and are committed to diverting waste from our landfill.”

Additional details of the recommendation can be found in the June 11, 2018 report to Committee (Recommended Changes to Waste Management in Saskatoon) and include:

• that organics be collected in a single green cart for co-mingled food and yard waste;
• that waste utility fees be based on cart sizes (lower prices for smaller carts);
• and that no changes be made to the existing recycling program.

To help inform the recommendations, the City held a series of engagement activities between February 12 and March 6 as part of the Saskatoon Talks Trash campaign.  The primary purpose of community engagement was to ensure that changes to waste management in Saskatoon are feasible, desirable, and community-informed in their design and implementation. Residents and stakeholders were informed about city-wide organics and a variable-rate waste utility and were asked to provide feedback based on their preferences, value, and priorities. They were also invited to share ideas about recycling, depots, and other programs that could contribute to the City's goal of 70% waste diversion by 2023. 

"We're happy to report that over 5,000 residents participated in community engagement," Wallace says. "We heard you, Saskatoon! The input and ideas we received from our residents and stakeholders is invaluable, and was instrumental in helping to shape the recommendations being brought forward."

For more information regarding curbside engagement results and the recommendations being brought forward, visit: saskatoon.ca/engage/saskatoon-talks-trash-curbside

For more information on the City’s Waste Diversion Plan, visit: saskatoon.ca/wastediversion.

Community engagement with multi-unit (apartments and condos) residents and property managers is currently underway. The purpose of this engagement is to get valuable feedback and insights on organics, waste diversion, and existing services. Engagement with institutional, commercial, and industrial stakeholders will begin in fall 2018.

The federal government announced today that Saskatoon is a finalist for the federal government’s Smart Cities Challenge. 

The Smart Cities Challenge is a national competition that invites communities to implement bold ideas to address enduring challenges through innovation, data and connected technology. Saskatoon’s application has brought together a wide range of Indigenous, community, and institutional partners to focus on breaking the cycle of Indigenous youth incarceration. The application proposes to create a new cycle based on integrated and coordinated data and programs that build purpose, belonging, security and identity. 

“Through our engagement, our partners and residents have told us that Saskatchewan’s incarceration rates, and in particular Indigenous youth incarceration rates, are at a shameful level,” said Mayor Charlie Clark. “This has a price for all of us in our community and our country. We have an incredible group of partners, and most importantly, we will work directly with Indigenous youth so that this work remains grounded in lived experiences.”

By being selected as a finalist in this competition, the City of Saskatoon has been awarded a prize of $250,000 to more fully develop its proposal. The City will continue work with community partners to develop an innovative technology platform and coordinated programmatic system that will support youth to make choices that reduce the chances of incarceration. 

“We are beyond thrilled to have been selected to move on to the next phase in the Challenge,” says Lynne Lacroix, Director of Recreation and Community Development. “Saskatoon residents, institutions and businesses worked together to successfully and innovatively rise to the challenge, and we have now been given a genuine opportunity to put forward our final proposal that could lead to transformational change to the wellbeing of residents and overall quality of life in our city.”

The community and institutional partners include:

Central Urban Métis Federation Inc.

Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools

Saskatchewan Health Authority

Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technology

Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Saskatoon Police Service

Saskatoon Public Schools

Saskatoon Tribal Council

United Way of Saskatoon and area

University of Saskatchewan

There will be additional partners included in this next phase.

The final proposals are due in the coming winter with the winners being announced in early 2019. The competition that Saskatoon has entered is for communities with a population of under 500,000 residents, and there are two prizes of $10 million available to be won in this category. 

Saskatoon Transit is piloting a new bus route that will improve access to many medical and health facilities throughout the city. Route 808 pilot will run on weekdays from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. starting June 1, 2018.

“Saskatoon Transit, along with the Saskatoon Council on Aging and the Saskatoon Health Authority, recognized a gap in our current network,” says Jim McDonald, Director of Saskatoon Transit. “Access to some medical and health facilities on our existing routes sometimes requires our riders to walk long distances. We are running Route 808 as an attempt to make those buildings more accessible.”   

Route 808 will service the following facilities every 45 minutes:

• City Hall
• Saskatoon Housing Authority
• RUH / Cancer Centre
• Field House (front door)
• Luther Tower
• Ronald McDonald House
• City Hospital
• Medical Arts Building

Route 808 will provide Access Transit customers with an alternative transportation option to attend medical appointments.

If the pilot route is determined successful based on customer feedback, it may become permanent. Customers will be able to use the Transit mobile app to plan their trip and view the route map and times at SaskatoonTransit.ca/route-and-schedules. 

Saskatoon Strides - 2017 Report on Service, Savings and Sustainability highlights the progress the City continues to make to drive service improvements, savings for taxpayers, and sustainability initiatives throughout many accomplishments in 2017.

“This report highlights the many ways we’ve worked together to build an ongoing culture of innovation and creativity,” says Kim Matheson, Director of Employee Experience and Performance.  “We empower our staff to take on new challenges, try new strategies and come up with new ways to meet the changing needs of our community, and that results in making strides in the right direction.”   

2017 Report on Service, Savings and Sustainability highlights:

• Identified savings, additional funding, and revenues total over $30 million in 2017, which included over $4.5 million in operational efficiencies and additional revenue
• Saskatoon Land  delivered over $25 million in total financial returns for 2017
• $1.45 million identified through internal process and civic service reviews
• The City applied for Federal and Provincial Infrastructure Grants and received funding approval for $431,000
• A number of continuous improvement initiatives in Information Technology resulted in over $800,000 savings identified in 2017
• In 2017, to continue to grow the city in a sustainable way, civic Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions were reduced by approximately 48,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e) a year, the equivalent of taking over 10,300 cars off our roads
• Civic programs diverted approximately 27,900 tonnes of waste from the Saskatoon Landfill, contributing to reduced GHG emissions reductions and extending the life of the landfill

“We are very proud of our positive, productive, and innovative organizational culture, it empowers our employees, our teams, to build a better city,” adds Matheson.

Along with highlights of the many initiatives in 2017 that made a positive impact and realized improvements in City services, savings, and sustainability, are numerous awards and recognition, and a wide variety of kudos received by the City from residents.

Find the full report and details on the financial savings and project initiatives on the City's website. The Strides report was presented to City Council on May 28, 2018.

Residents living in multi-unit buildings are invited to participate in a series of engagement activities as part of the ongoing Saskatoon Talks Trash campaign. 6% of waste generated in Saskatoon comes from multi-unit residential buildings, representing an important component of reaching the City’s target of 70% waste diversion by 2023.

“Decisions about how we manage waste will impact all current and future residents, so it is important we get this right.” says Brenda Wallace, Director of Environmental and Corporate Initiatives. “Approximately 34% of housing in Saskatoon is multi-unit residential. We hope to hear from a large cross-section of multi-unit residents including people of all ages, people living in different areas, people of various incomes, and people with differing abilities. Everybody is encouraged to get involved.”

Wallace says 61% of waste generated by multi-unit residents (8,600 tonnes annually) could be diverted with the right programs, policies and resident participation rates.

“To extend the life of our landfill it is critical to add multi-unit organics collection, review current waste services, look for innovative diversion ideas from our residents, and develop a sustainable funding model for waste,” Wallace says.

She adds the costs to close the existing landfill and establish a new landfill are estimated at $26 million and $100 million respectively. Engagement sessions will involve residents and property managers of condominiums and apartment buildings to gain insights on waste diversion opportunities and service.

The engagement project will gather input and ideas about: designing an organics collection program and determining whether service will be provided by the City or mandated through a bylaw; how existing waste and recycling services are used by multi-unit residents and opportunities for improvement; and additional programs and services to increase waste diversion and resident participation.

Public engagement begins June 3. For more information, including dates and locations of events, visit saskatoon.ca/yxetalkstrash.

Conversations with institutional, commercial, and industrial stakeholders will begin in fall 2018.

The City of Saskatoon, Office of the Treaty Commissioner, Saskatoon Tribal Council, Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. along with 84 business and community organization members of Reconciliation Saskatoon gathered in Civic Square outside City Hall today to raise the Reconciliation flag in honour of Indian residential school and Sixties Scoop survivors.

“Looking back at what happened to us in residential schools - the loss of culture and language, the physical, sexual and mental abuse, the blatant racism we experienced – this ceremony is incredibly important to me and for all the survivors,” says Frank Badger, Elder and Indian residential school survivor.

“By going back to our roots and celebrating our culture, language and traditions, we are making our way back to who we once were as proud First Nation, Inuit and Métis people. We are teaching our ways to the generation today and those yet to be born, and we will show our children that no one will ever experience this dark time again.”

The Reconciliation Saskatoon movement has grown to 88 member organizations since the release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Report with the aim to further a community conversation about the process of Canadian reconciliation and to educate residents to engage in calls to action.

“In Saskatoon, there is a tremendous effort underway throughout the community to work towards reconciliation and to create a stronger Treaty relationship now and into our shared future,” says Mayor Charlie Clark.

“By honouring survivors and keeping the next generations top of mind, over 80 non-profits, businesses, institutions, and faith communities have been making a positive change in our community through the work of Reconciliation Saskatoon. It is remarkable to see such a strong community-wide support for this important work as we raise the Reconciliation Saskatoon flag this morning and recommit ourselves to a stronger community.”

Upcoming reconciliation events in Saskatoon include the official unveiling ceremony for “The Coming Spring” Reconciliation Art Project in Victoria Park on June 20 and the third annual “Rock Your Roots” Walk for Reconciliation along with National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations on June 21.  

“Reconciliation is a shared journey which begins with each and every one of us,” says Shirley Isbister, President, Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. ”It’s important for us to provide opportunities like the Flag Raising Ceremony and the Rock Your Roots walk to help people explore the meaning of reconciliation and respond to the Truth and Reconciliation’s Calls to Action.”

In 2015, Saskatoon committed to responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s calls to action, with a proclamation by City Council on June 22, declaring 2015-16 the Year of Reconciliation. In addition, the City committed to working with the Office of the Treaty Commissioner and other community groups, leaders and institutions in Saskatchewan, to promote reconciliation in our province.

For more information on events, or to have your reconciliation event added to the calendar, please visit www.OTC.ca.

The City of Saskatoon is participating in the Commuter Challenge (June 3-9, 2018), a national initiative coordinated by municipal volunteer representatives from across the country. The intent of the initiative is to encourage people to try one or multiple modes of active and sustainable transportation like transit, cycling, or carpooling.

The City of Saskatoon is putting its own spin on the initiative by inviting City employees to participate in a game of Commuter Challenge Bingo.

“Saskatoon Transit is a great fit for an initiative like this because we tick all the boxes,” says Jim McDonald, Director of Saskatoon Transit. “Bus travel is sustainable and it’s also active—the bus is typically one piece of a trip that also includes walking and/or cycling.”

“We just saw a very successful turnout for Bike to Work Day YXE, and this is our chance to build on that success,” says Jay Magus, Acting Director of Transportation. “Some feedback we received following Bike to Work Day is that it’s surprisingly easy and pleasant to bike to work. We’re hoping this day will be an opportunity for more City employees to see that cycling, carpooling and taking the bus are actually convenient, affordable and enjoyable options.”

As the City of Saskatoon continues to move towards expanding transportation options around the city – with initiatives like Bus Rapid Transit and new cycling infrastructure – participation in initiatives like the Commuter Challenge will become even more commonplace.

While this particular challenge is directed at City of Saskatoon employees, other Saskatoon organizations and individuals are encouraged to consider leading or participating in their own game of Commuter Challenge Bingo.

More information at saskatoon.ca/CommuterChallenge.

As the world prepares to watch a new generation of the Royal Family celebrate marriage vows of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle this Saturday, May 19, we have an opportunity to look back in time to share a Saskatoon story with a connection to royalty.

“We recently digitized a – colour – film of the 1939 royal visit to Saskatoon,” says City Archivist Jeff O’Brien.  “We have this one-of-a-kind treasure in the archives; with the help of social media, so many people can now experience this part of our community’s history from nearly 80 years ago.”

The film was originally produced by John Sproule Mills.  J.S. Mills was a former principal of King Edward School, instructor at Saskatoon Normal School (teacher’s college), city councillor and mayor.  The film capturing the visit of Her Majesty’s parents, King George V and Queen Elizabeth, was acquired by the City of Saskatoon Archives in 2017.

O’Brien narrates the digitized version of Mills’ film and helps transport us back to the first ever visit to Canada by a reigning King and Queen. See the digitized film on our YouTube channel. 

City staff, contractors and Costco management worked throughout the weekend and established a temporary water supply for the store as of 11 p.m. Sunday, May 13.

“We continue to work closely with Costco to help keep things business-as-usual at the store,” says Angela Gardiner, Acting General Manager of Transportation & Utilities.

Friday, May 11 the Water Security Agency (WSA) issued a Do Not Use notice after City staff suspected hydrocarbons in three hydrants on the water line that supplies Costco.

With the temporary line in place and following the usual WSA protocol, Costco will remain on a Drinking Water Advisory for the next 36-48 hours until water tests on the temporary line come back clean.

“This is a strict precaution, there is also no reason to believe there is any health risk or that any of the adjacent residential homes in Rosewood are impacted.”

In January, the WSA issued a similar notice after hydrocarbons were visually detected in some fire hydrants within one section of the Aspen Ridge neighbourhood. Even though there were no signs of hydrocarbons beyond the hydrant structures and the residential water supply continued to test clean and clear, about 10 homes have been on temporary water lines since late winter.

“Just like everyone else affected, we want some definitive answers about what’s going on,” Gardiner says. “There could be something about the materials and how they were made, or about how they were installed or there may be some other way any hydrocarbons got there.”

Gardiner says part of the investigation involves an external consultant to develop the permanent remediation plan. The current focus she says is to confirm the exact type of hydrocarbon.

“This is done by sending tests to a lab in Ontario, which takes about three-to-four weeks for results. Once the type of hydrocarbon is confirmed, we will know what direction to take.”   

The City of Saskatoon is proud to sponsor Bike to Work Day YXE, an initiative of Saskatoon Cycles, on Wednesday, May 16, 2018. The aim of this event is to encourage people to give biking to work a try and to celebrate those individuals that regularly make cycling a part of their commute.

“We’re pleased to play a role in the delivery of an initiative that encourages and supports people in trying out an active and sustainable mode of transportation,” says Jay Magus, the City’s Acting Director of Transportation. “As we continue to move towards expanding transportation options around our city – with initiatives like new cycling infrastructure and Bus Rapid Transit – we’re going to see more and more people choosing alternatives to driving.”

“We often hear from people that they’d like to try biking to work but that they feel intimidated to do it that very first time,” says Cathy Watts, co-chair of Saskatoon Cycles. “Bike to Work Day is the perfect day to give it a try because you’ll be out there alongside others doing the same thing—it will also be an extra supportive environment.”

Between 7 and 9 a.m. on May 16^th, participating local businesses and organizations will have bike stations set up around the city. Anyone on a bicycle is invited to make a stop for coffee, giveaways, or a chance to win prizes.

“These stations will attract your attention; with coffee and treats of all kinds as well as tons of encouragement to keep going,” says Watts. “It could be described as a party on the way to work. It would be best to start your commute early on Wednesday to make the most of a very fun day.”

Learn more about Bike to Work Day YXE, including details on the Workplace Challenge and a complete map of bike stations, at biketoworksaskatoon.com.

Until further notice, the Water Security Agency (WSA) has issued a “Do Not Use” notice for an address in the Rosewood neighbourhood.

“First of all, I want to express our frustration that we’ve made this discovery in a different developing area of Saskatoon,” says Angela Gardiner, Acting General Manager of Transportation and Utilities “Hydrocarbons have been detected in three hydrants on the line that supplies Costco.”

“Right now we are conducting water tests to check the supply in the lines beyond the hydrants.  However, because we found hydrocarbons in these three hydrants, it means the WSA has ordered – as a strict precaution – the water supply can’t be used for personal contact.”

“Our investigation in Aspen Ridge revealed some information that led us to probe other areas under development and this is part of the overall ongoing investigation,” Gardiner says.

“We want answers just like everyone else and unfortunately we don’t have those answers at this point. Until we know, the safest course of action is to abide by the WSA’s order.”

City staff have met with the affected business officials to communicate the WSA order and to answer any questions they may have.

The City of Saskatoon’s Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) report that yesterday’s May 10, 6:00 p.m. test message sent to Saskatoon residents was executed successfully. With twice-yearly testing, more and more residents are becoming familiar with notifynow emergency notification messages.

“Saskatoon’s population is now over 270,000 and growing. So far, we’ve had just over 23,000 residents customize their notifynow profile,” says Pamela Goulden-McLeod, Director of Emergency Planning. “We are pleased that this number continues to grow, but we would really like to see more residents tell us their preferred method of communication. It’s important to remember that notifynow can’t reach you and your family if you have incomplete or out-of-date contact information in the notifynow system.”

Did you receive your notifynow test message? Have you taken steps to be prepared, connected and informed in the event of a citywide emergency or one affecting only your neighbourhood?

“If you have a phone number that is publicly available, you may be in the notifynow system,” says Goulden-McLeod. “However, we encourage residents to visit the City’s website to indicate how they want to receive their notifynow emergency notification messages. Many residents now prefer cell phone, text or email, or maybe all of these options.”

It’s easy to customize your notifynow profile and your communication preferences. Help notifynow reach you - and more Saskatoon residents with timely, trusted and targeted emergency notification messages.

“Notifynow messages should play an important part of you and your family’s emergency preparedness plan,” adds Goulden-McLeod. “These emergency safety messages can tell you what to do, what to expect, or even where to go in an emergency situation, and this greatly helps to reduce stress for you and your family.”

Visit saskatoon.ca/notifynow today to customize your preferences or call 306-975-3210 for more information.

The Saskatoon Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) encourages residents to take steps to Be Emergency Ready during Emergency Preparedness Week, May 6 to 12.

“Everyone has a role to play in emergency preparedness,” says Pamela Goulden-McLeod, Director of Emergency Planning. “Making sure your household is well-prepared helps to reduce stress in the event of an emergency.”

Emergency Notification Tests

Wednesday, May 9 at 1:55 p.m.

Canada Alert Ready

• This is the first test of this system.
• The Canada Alert Ready test will be sent via Canadian radio and TV, cable and satellite operators. Emergency alerts will also be sent to compatible wireless devices connected to LTE networks.
• Residents do not have to sign-up for Canada Alert Ready emergency notifications.
• Visit alertready.ca for more information.

Thursday, May 10 at 6:00 p.m.

Citywide notifynow test  

• Tested twice a year, notifynow is a trusted, timely and targeted emergency notification system for the residents of Saskatoon that plays an essential part in reaching residents in instances of emergency.
• Should you receive a notifynow message - you’ll know what to do, where to go and what to expect.
• Tell us how to best reach you in the event of a large-scale emergency, or one affecting only your neighbourhood. Sign-up for this free service to customize your preferred communication method and profile.
• Visit saskatoon.ca/notifynow for more information.

In addition to the two emergency tests next week, Saskatoon EMO emphasizes the importance of personal preparedness through these three steps: know the risks, make a plan, and get a kit.

Emergency Preparedness Week began in 1996 and is an annual, national event coordinated by Public Safety Canada.  The week highlights the importance of personal preparedness and raises awareness of the importance of having an emergency kit, making an emergency plan, and identifying risks that may be specific to a region.

Saskatoon residents wanting to learn more about personal emergency preparedness may call Saskatoon EMO at 306-975-3210 or visit saskatoon.ca/notifynow.

The Building Better Roads program is aiming to improve another 206 lane kilometres of roadway and replace more than 20 kilometers of sidewalk during the 2018 construction season. Since the establishment of a dedicated road levy in 2014, 876 lane kilometers of roadway have been improved and 36 kilometers of sidewalk have been replaced under the program.

“Now that a funding base has been built up, we have an annual funding level of $61 million to cover road construction, road repair, pothole patching, sidewalk rehabilitation, back lane upgrades, street sweeping, and snow and ice management for the year,” says Angela Gardiner, Acting General Manager of Transportation and Utilities. “Various projects are scheduled in 2018 - everything from resurfacing to total rehabilitations. This season also includes the completion of some major projects that will alleviate congestion and improve traffic flow on main arterials.”

Key 2018 Building Better Roads funded projects include:

• Circle Drive over 33^rd Street – rehabilitation of northbound overpass
• Arlington Avenue and Taylor Street - intersection improvements
• Victoria Avenue - rehabilitation
• Idylwyld Drive North - resurfacing
• Water and sewer improvements (i.e. Idylwyld Drive, City Park)

Gardiner says residents will continue to see 24-hour work in various construction zones to allow the projects to be completed timely and effectively, while reducing the impact to drivers, residents and businesses.

“This is shaping up to be another busy construction season so we would like to remind drivers about the importance of respecting work zones, for their safety and for the safety of the people working in them.

“Day or night, when you see lights, reflective cones and work zone signage, slow down, obey signage, and pay attention, even when construction work may appear halted or complete.”

In addition to Building Better Roads funded projects, traffic flow on the east side of Saskatoon will vastly improve this fall with the opening of the North Commuter Parkway and a new interchange at McOrmond Drive and College Drive.

“The North Commuter Parkway will connect commuters from neighbourhoods in the northeast to the Marquis Industrial area, alleviating congestion on Attridge Drive and Circle Drive,” says Gardiner. “The new interchange at McOrmond Drive and College Drive will not only cut down on traffic congestion, but also serve as a safe pedestrian connection between the Willowgrove and Arbor Creek neighbourhoods to Brighton.” 

Downtown, a new wider and taller Traffic Bridge will also open this fall, once again providing a convenient link for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists crossing the South Saskatchewan River.

Facts and Resources:

When the 2018 construction season is complete, the Building Better Roads program will have rehabilitated 1,085 lane kilometres of roadway! That’s roughly the one-way distance from City Hall to Salmon Arm, BC. The 56 kilometers of sidewalk replaced would create a path the distance from City Hall to Borden.

Saskatoon.ca/betterroads (construction, street sweeping, Report a Pothole map)
Saskatoon.ca/interchanges (McOrmond/College & Boychuk/Highway 16 interchanges)
Saskatoon.ca/bridging (North Commuter Parkway and Traffic Bridge)

Residential street sweeping starts on Monday, May 7 for up to seven weeks through 56 neighbourhoods. In addition to positing bright yellow No Parking signs ahead of sweeping, the City is inviting people to search their sweep day by address to plan ahead.

“It’s really important for people to move their vehicles by 7 a.m. on their sweeping day so we can properly sweep the area,” says Brandon Harris, Director of Roadways & Operations. “This new search function is designed to make it easy for people to plan ahead and avoid parking on a street scheduled for sweeping.”

After a successful pilot project in 2017, priority streets through neighbourhoods with high on-street parking were fully swept in April, leaving these areas free for parking when the surrounding streets are scheduled. 

“There are fewer vehicles relocated each year as people become familiar with the signs and we can offer alternative streets for parking,” says Harris. “Even so, too many people are ignoring the No Parking signs and the last thing we want to have to do is ticket and tow residents so we can do a good job.”   

In order to sweep streets from curb to curb, vehicles left on the street are relocated to a nearby location, which may be outside of their neighbourhood or on a previously swept street. The driver then has to locate their vehicle and pay a $100 parking violation.

If your vehicle is relocated, you can use the Find My Vehicle! search function or contact the 24-hour customer service centre at 306-975-2476.

Search your sweep day and find other information about street sweeping at saskatoon.ca/sweeping. Street Sweeping Service Alerts will be issued if there is a change to the residential sweeping schedule.

As of January 1, 2018, China, which buys approximately two-thirds of North America's recyclables, set new standards which prohibit the importation of recovered paper bales that are overly contaminated with plastic film (stretchy plastics such as bags and wrap).

The resulting decrease in market options and increased demand for higher quality recyclable materials means that Saskatoon’s recyclers cannot sell all the material that they are collecting and are instead stockpiling a substantial portion.

“Soft stretchable plastics too easily end up in bales of paper and cardboard which is the cause of the contamination that will no longer meet China’s standards.” says Brenda Wallace, Director of Environmental and Corporate Initiatives. “By eliminating plastic film from our recycling program we are able to ensure our other materials, such as paper and cardboard – which make up 76 per cent of our recyclable materials – are still meeting global standards and can continue to be recycled.”

To help explain the new change to the program, a communications campaign launched April 30, 2018.  It promotes tips for reducing the use of plastic film while encouraging the use of reusable products such as cloth bags, and hard plastic and glass containers.

With the recognition plastic film can’t be avoided sometimes, the campaign also promotes some helpful tips for re-using bags and film to keep it from being a one-time use item.

The recycling campaign supports the Strategic Goal of Environmental Leadership and the City’s target of diverting 70% of waste by 2023.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

• 2017 - The SASF program was featured as an international case study by the Global Environmental Education Partnership (GEEP)
• 2017 - St. Volodymyr School’s participating grade 7/8 class received the Rob Dumont Energy Management Education Award
• 2016 - St. Anne School’s participating grade 8 class received the Rob Dumont Energy Management Youth Award
• 2013 - The SASF program received a Regional Centre for Expertise Award for Education for Sustainable Development
• 2013 - The SASF program received the Saskatchewan Waste Reduction Council Waste Minimization Award for Youth/Schools

Warm weather has arrived after a long winter and is now causing ice on the City’s lakes and ponds to deteriorate or rot. The Saskatoon Fire Department now asks people to stay off the ice since it may be unstable.

Assistant Chief Wayne Rodger says Saskatoon Fire Department staff have evaluated the ice conditions and have determined the ponds are no longer safe for recreational use.

“The degradation we’re observing along the shoreline could make access treacherous,” Rodger says.  “Once the ice starts to deteriorate -- as it has this year -- the thickness of the ice is no longer an indication of its strength.”

He says with warmer temperatures, several different factors come into play to make the ice unstable:

• When the snow cover melts, the sunlight and solar radiation travels through clear ice and is absorbed by the water below causing it to warm.  Through this process the ice melts from the bottom up. The solar radiation causes ice crystals to deteriorate dramatically weakening the ice.  Because this happens from the bottom up, even ice that appears stable may not be safe.

• When water pools on top of the ice, perhaps from the melting snow cover, it will be warmer than the ice and again allow solar radiation to travel through the ice causing it to melt faster.

• When water is moving above or below the ice surface, such as the inflows to our storm retention ponds from attached to storm sewers, ice will weaken. In the same way, river currents constantly affect the quality of the ice on the river making it unstable and dangerous for use.

The Saskatoon Fire Department again reminds residents to never go on the river ice and asks them to stay off the ice on the city’s lakes and ponds for the remainder of the 2018 season.

The City wants to warn residents about a phone scam involving someone pretending to be from City Utility Collections.

The City has received phone calls and e-mails from concerned customers.  The customers report they have all received the same phone call with someone making a claim their utility bill is overdue and their service will be disconnected.

The calls appear to be coming from a 1-800 number. Although the City has a 1-800 utilities customer service number, the City does not call customers from that number.

The City only disconnects service after the customer receives a written notice and if accounts are not kept current

Do not give credit card numbers or other banking information over the phone if contacted this way.

To confirm the identity of a City of Saskatoon Utility Collections employee, please call Utility Collections in Revenue Division by calling 306-975-2405 or 1-800-667-9944.

Anyone who receives a suspicious call of this nature is encouraged to attend to the Saskatoon Police Service (located at 76 – 25^th St E) and speak with an officer to leave a report.

Thanks to warm temperatures this week, roads are drying up enough for street sweeping and pothole repairs. With late snowfalls, these road maintenance programs are three to four weeks behind the average year.

“Today is our first day with hot-mix asphalt and City crews are already a few loads in,” says Brandon Harris, Director of Roadways & Operations. “We have utility cuts to maintain, countless potholes to repair, and six weeks of priority-street sweeping to complete before residential sweeping begins on May 7.”

Over the next two weeks, City crews will be working longer days and through the weekend to repair potholes beginning with those at highest-risk for causing injury or damage. Citizens will also notice sweeping along priority streets, business improvement districts, and on medians and boulevards.

“We are operating at maximum staffing and equipment capacity and expect unprecedented progress for sweeping and pothole repairs,” says Harris. “However, roads in general will still be bumpy and dusty on secondary roads for a few weeks because of this late start to spring road maintenance.”

In addition to sweeping and pothole repairs, the City is maintaining more than 1,000 utility cuts with gravel until they can be permanently repaired beginning next week. Citizens can report dangerous locations to our Customer Service Centre and continue to report potholes on our Report-a-Pothole app to help the City prioritize repairs.

City-wide residential street sweeping will begin May 7, weather permitting. Bright yellow No Parking signs will be posted in neighbourhoods 36-48 hours in advance of street sweeping, followed up with ticketing and relocation towing. At the same time, City crews will be permanently repairing potholes with a hot mix asphalt.  

Visit saskatoon.ca/betterroads to report a pothole and for street sweeping schedules and information on spring road maintenance programs.

Following the 2018-2019 Provincial Budget reinstatement of the SaskEnergy Grant-in-Lieu of taxes (GIL), City Council is in the position to reduce residential property taxes by nearly a single percentage. 

“This is most definitely a positive development,” says Kerry Tarasoff, Chief Financial Officer. “Anytime we can ease the load on the property tax is most welcome.” 

Instead of traditional property taxes, the provincial government has paid the City GIL for property and rights-of-way on which SaskPower, SaskEnergy, and TransGas operate within Saskatoon.   

Last spring, the 2017-2018 Provincial Budget eliminated the provincial utility GIL to municipalities. This left the City with a $11.4 million shortfall.  

The combined negative impact to the City’s 2017 and 2018 budgets due to the loss of the SaskEnergy GIL was $5.72 million. 

Through careful planning, spending and cost reductions, just $2.66 million of that was passed onto taxpayers.  

“With the Province re-establishing the GIL for SaskEnergy, we’re able to replace three-quarters of that amount this year and apply the rest for next year’s budget,” Tarasoff says. 

Tarasoff says that translates to a 0.91% property tax reduction, bringing the 2018 rate to 3.79%. 

The 3.79% increase means a typical single-family home with an assessed value of $371,000 will pay an additional $5.50 per month or $66 for the year.  

In an effort to move to a model based on higher frequency, Saskatoon Transit is pleased to announce service changes to better meet the needs of citizens. Saskatoon Transit will continue to offer high frequency service along main corridors with the addition of ten minute frequency along Preston Avenue and Attridge Drive up to Nelson Road/Lowe Road.

“It is encouraging to see increased ridership levels in the 2017 Saskatoon Transit Annual Report,” says Jim McDonald, Director of Saskatoon Transit. “With the service changes we are making to improve the frequency, people are recognizing transit as a viable option. Connecting the northeast corner of the city with higher frequency is another step towards bus rapid transit (BRT).”

The more frequent service will apply throughout weekdays with thirty minute frequency during evenings, weekends and statutory holidays. These service changes will take effect on July 1, 2018. It is anticipated these improvements will have a major impact on the way residents in this area use Saskatoon Transit.

The goals of these service improvements are to provide more convenient and quicker daily commutes, drastically reduce wait times, improve reliability and reduce travel time.

“We continue to make transit a convenient option for Saskatoon residents,” says McDonald. “High frequency service to more areas of the city will provide superior service along high demand corridors.” 

All of the new and altered routes can be viewed at SaskatoonTransit.ca. A public engagement session will be held on Tuesday, April 17, 2018 from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. at The Alice Turner Library. New routes will be on display and attendees will have the opportunity to hear about future transit service and ask any questions they may have.  

“This is the public’s chance to provide feedback on how the new routes will affect their commute”, says McDonald. “We hope residents and our current rider base will come out and let us know what they think.”

A short survey is also available at SaskatoonTransit.ca asking residents how the service changes affect them.   

While mass casualty incidents (MCI) are rare in Canada, our community needs to be prepared.  To that end, the Saskatoon Police Service Foundation (SPSF) is pleased to help provide funding for ballistic vests and helmets for firefighters, who are always on the front line in such an incident.

“Firefighters are often confronted with dangerous situations when they respond to calls,” says Vera Pezer, President of the SPSF.  “They are frequently working alongside police and ambulance service personnel when a high degree of risk is involved.”

A recent MCI training scenario revealed the need for additional protective equipment in the form of ballistic vests and helmets for Saskatoon Fire Department Primary Care Paramedics.  The foundation has committed $10 thousand in funding.

“We’re grateful for this generous support,” says Fire Chief Morgan Hackl. “In order for us to do our job in the ‘hot zone’ during a mass casualty incident, our paramedics need to have the equipment that will help us help others.”

The SPS Foundation is an incorporated, not-for-profit, community-led organization. It is dedicated to raising funds to support projects that contribute to community safety.

“We have seen mass casualty incidents occur regularly around the world”, said Police Chief Troy Cooper.  “While Saskatoon has not had a similar incident, this initiative will allow for enhanced cooperation with our partners in response to crisis.” 

The proceeds of its annual SPS Foundation Half Marathon, being held on April 29, will go towards this initiative.

For more information on the Saskatoon Police Foundation, visit https://saskatoonpoliceservicefoundation.org/.

In recognition of the Humboldt Broncos hockey team and the lives lost in Friday night’s highway bus tragedy, the City is lowering all flags to half-mast at civic facilities across Saskatoon. It is a small way of acknowledging the impact on the hockey community and people all across the province, and further today.

Mayor Charlie Clark says, “We are all devastated by the tragic bus crash of the Humboldt Broncos hockey team. 

These players and staff have family and friends throughout our whole province. They have touched us all. 

Saskatoon will offer support in any way we can as we all try to come to terms with the impacts of this heartbreaking accident. We have our Police, Fire, and Ambulance members all on the scene, providing emergency management and wellness supports. 

Sincere thanks to everyone who helped out last night and who continues to provide support, from emergency responders, to the media keeping us updated, to the community members who are providing comfort in this time of deep sadness. 

The City of Saskatoon will be lowering flags to half-mast in recognition of lives lost in this tragedy.” 

Every home has some level of risk for flooding during spring snow melt and rain storms.  An innovative new program was launched today in Saskatoon to help people take proactive measures and reduce their flood risk, thanks to sponsorship provided by the City and SGI CANADA.

“Homeowners can register now for a free or partially-subsidized professional home assessment to help identify flood risks through the Home Flood Protection Program,” said Reid Corbett, Director of Saskatoon Water. “Early action and preventative maintenance activities can help reduce these risks in the short and long term."

Home assessments are completed by a national environmental consulting agency - a $450 value - at a reduced rate of $125. Up to 100 homes that meet the criteria for high-risk flooding areas are eligible for a free home assessment.

Once a homeowner registers and books their 60-90 minute appointment, a trained assessor completes a 50-point visual assessment and provides a list of the top actions to reduce flood risk. Participants can also access self-help resources, a customer service help-line and local service provider information as they start implementing the recommendations.

“This leading-edge flood resiliency program comes at an important time,” said Cheryl Evans, Director of the Home Flood Protection Program at the University of Waterloo’s Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation. “As the frequency and severity of extreme weather due to climate change is increasing and exposes many homes to possible basement flooding.”

The Home Flood Protection Program was first piloted in Burlington, Ontario last year and is now available in Saskatoon for up to 400 owners of fully-detached, semi-detached and townhomes. Lessons learned from the pilot program will inform a broader rollout of the program across Canada.

City Council approved funding for the Home Flood Protection Program in response to feedback from residents in areas that experienced flooding during the July and August 2017 intense rain events.

The Home Flood Protection Program was developed by the Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation at the University of Waterloo, is delivered locally by AET Group and sponsored by the City of Saskatoon and SGI CANADA. Homeowners who are interested in participating in the program can register online now or call 1-877-876-9235 (toll-free).

The City is reminding everyone that it wants to hear ideas on how to improve our lives through innovation, data, and technology; it is all part of the Smart Cities Challenge.

The Smart Cities Challenge asks communities to share their best ideas for using technology and data to improve livability and opportunities for the city and its residents.

The first step in the application process is to develop a Challenge Statement that defines the outcomes a community aims to achieve.

For Saskatoon, the focus is on improving community safety and well-being.  We need residents to weigh in with feedback, so the City has begun a process of reaching out to individuals, families, community organizations, institutions, and the technology sector.

Saskatoon residents are being asked for their ideas on how to address the challenges our city faces as they relate to community safety and well-being.

Everyone can get involved by visiting saskatoon.ca/engage on or before Monday, April 2, 2018, and answering four questions to participate in a community-wide brainstorm to narrow down key themes for the Challenge Statement.

The City is partnering with the Central Urban Métis Federation, Saskatoon Health Authority, Saskatoon Police Service, Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Saskatoon Tribal Council, United Way, and University of Saskatchewan in the development of the Smart Cities Challenge Application.

Challenge Details
Recently launched by the Government of Canada, the Challenge has three rounds of competition.  Saskatoon has until Tuesday, April 24, 2018, to submit a Challenge Statement application in the first round.  The Government of Canada will announce round one finalists in Summer 2018, and each finalist will receive $250,000 to further develop their ideas into a full proposal.  Winners will be announced in Spring 2019 and will have their ideas funded through a potential $10 million prize (Eligible Category:  Communities with Populations under 500,000).

Visit the Government of Canada's Challenge website to learn more about Smart Cities, and join the conversation on Twitter with hashtag #smartcitiesCanada.

The newest members of the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo (Zoo) family have quickly settled into their new digs at the Meerkat House and embraced their new life as Saskatonians.

“The new exhibit is quite amazing,” says Tim Sinclair-Smith, Zoo Manager.  “It features a naturalistic habitat with desert sand dunes, termite mound replicas, nest boxes, and specially made tunnel systems.  We are also working on setting up nest box cameras that will provide an up-close look at the meerkat tunnels throughout the exhibit.”

Transforming the former Komodo Island exhibit to the new Meerkat House was made possible through the generous support of the Saskatoon Zoo Foundation who raises funds for capital projects and improvements within the Zoo.  Following up on the success of the Komodo Island exhibit, the Foundation provided the required funding to bring the Meerkat House exhibit to life.

“The Saskatoon Zoo Foundation is very excited to play a role in bringing the meerkats to the Zoo,” says Dawn Woroniuk, Executive Director, Saskatoon Zoo Foundation.  “We embraced the opportunity to provide the funding to flip the exhibit space in order to bring a species that most of us never imagined coming to the Zoo.”

The new Meerkat House also features original artwork created by students from Georges Vanier Catholic Fine Arts School.  The school has been working with the Zoo to create cut-out displays highlighting various animals, with the latest installation featuring the meerkats.

Visitors to the Zoo will have their first opportunity to see the meerkats in their new permanent home when the exhibit officially opens to the public on Sunday, April 1, 2018.

Residents are encouraged to come and experience the cuteness for themselves. The Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. until the end of April and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. starting in May.  Additional information can be found at saskatoon.ca/zoo.

The City of Saskatoon and the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to create greater education, career development and training opportunities for Indigenous students and workers.

“SIIT is pleased to strengthen our relationship with the City of Saskatoon through the signing of this MOU,” says Chief Darcy Bear, SIIT Board of Governors Chairperson. “SIIT serves approximately 10,000 students and clients per year across the province,” Chief Bear says. “Partnerships, such as this one, help provide a better conduit for our students to find employment opportunities within all areas of the city’s workforce”.  

The formal agreement outlines a framework for collaboration between the two organizations, including strategic initiatives to improve the quality of life for SIIT students while living in Saskatoon.

“Strengthening our partnership with SIIT will not only help the City of Saskatoon have a more representative workforce, but it will create valuable learning opportunities for SIIT students, many who move to Saskatoon for their program and stay here after they graduate,” says Mayor Charlie Clark.

“In working more closely with this academic institution we can ensure that the programming and courses of SIIT fit well with the needs and issues facing the city,” Mayor Clark says. “This will support students in a way that advances the needs and aspirations of everyone.”

Key initiatives include:

• Develop targeted strategies to recruit students to enter into and succeed in employment.
• Engage students to identify and address barriers to employment, such as transportation, child care and housing.

“As the Saskatoon Student Association President, I look forward to any partnerships that help to reduce barriers while students are at SIIT and assist them in securing employment after they complete their education. Pursuing an education can be a stressful experience with many obstacles, any time we reduce obstacles we improve student success,” says Violet Swan, SIIT Saskatoon Student Association President.

In 2014, SIIT and the City of Saskatoon signed an ongoing agreement that provides full time students with a Transit U-pass at a discounted rate, for the September to May academic year.

The MOU responds directly to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action, specifically #92: “Ensure that Aboriginal peoples have equitable access to jobs, training, and education opportunities in the corporate sector, and that Aboriginal communities gain long-term sustainable benefits from economic development projects.”

Under the City of Saskatoon’s Strategic Goal of Continuous Improvement, this agreement supports the long term strategy of offering an inclusive workplace that embraces diverse backgrounds. This agreement also supports the City’s long-term strategy of strengthening relations with local Aboriginal organizations, under the Strategic Goal of Quality of Life.

Construction milestones are about to be reached on two new interchanges currently under construction in Saskatoon. Both interchanges are ready for the installation of girders - concrete structures that support the bridge deck. 56 girders will first be placed over the eastbound and westbound lanes of College Drive at McOrmond Drive.

“Installation at this site will take approximately three weeks,” says Bryan Zerebeski, Project Manager, Saskatoon Interchange Project. “The girders were manufactured in Alberta. Once on site, a 250 tonne crane will immediately lift them into place.”

The girders range between 29 and 38 meters in length and are 1.2 meters wide by 1 meter high. Installation will begin at the McOrmond and College site on Monday, March 26 and traffic restrictions will be in place on Highway 5, east of the temporary intersection during girder installation. Work on the interchange at McOrmond Drive and College Drive began in April of 2017.

Construction of the new interchange at Boychuk Drive and Highway 16 has also been underway since April of 2017. Girders will be installed at that site once installations are complete at McOrmond and College.  

The speed limit through both construction sites is 60 km/h. Drivers are reminded to expect delays.

Visit saskatoon.ca/interchanges for project updates, alternate route maps, and to see 3D renderings.

Around 8:20 a.m. this morning a westbound Saskatoon Transit Bus was involved in a collision with a truck at the intersection of Idylwyld Drive and 22^nd Street West. No injuries have been reported. The Transit bus sustained significant damage. Emergency services were called to scene.

As is the practice, Transit officials are conducting an internal review of the incident.

The Office of the Chief Coroner today concluded the September 11, 2017 drowning death of five-year-old Ahmedsadiq Elmmi was accidental and no inquest will be held.

“First of all – as we did at the time of the incident – the City extends its heartfelt condolences to Ahmed Elmmi’s family, friends, teachers, and classmates,” says Angela Gardiner, Acting General Manager of Transportation & Utilities. “As a parent myself I can’t imagine what this family has had to deal with.”

The Coroner made three recommendations for the City:

1. To assess the feasibility for water safety education within all Saskatoon communities, such as providing learning materials to residential areas with nearby water access.
2. During community planning and development, and to optimize safety, the City of Saskatoon and the school boards should consider future placement of ponds and municipal structures, so that such structures and ponds are located away from schools, playgrounds and areas where children are known to play.
3. Assess the need for additional barriers and modifications to ponds and their surrounding area where the location of such structures is within proximity to schools and areas known to be occupied by children.

To assess the feasibility for water safety education within all Saskatoon communities, such as providing learning materials to residential areas with nearby water access.

“We would agree with the Coroner’s recommendation here,” Gardiner says. “The Fire Department routinely offers public education on safety near the river or ponds, and has reached out to the School Divisions to offer such a program in schools.”

Gardiner says the City presented its proposed recommendations for storm water retention ponds to the community which include an educational component for schools and community associations as well as easy to understand signage around all storm water retention ponds.

During community planning and development, and to optimize safety, the City of Saskatoon and the school boards should consider future placement of ponds and municipal structures, so that such structures and ponds are located away from schools, playgrounds and areas where children are known to play.

Gardiner highlights this is already under discussion with the community and outlines the proposed recommendations:

1. In new neighbourhoods, storm ponds should be located a safe distance from schools, unless separated by a barrier or other risk mitigating factors are in place.   Barriers could be in the form of roads or residential/commercial developments. 
2. If safety risks cannot be mitigated through location and other design options, we would assess fencing as a barrier on a case-by-case basis.
3. Finally, for Dundonald Park, a partial 1.2 m high wrought-iron fence on the school side of the park pathway is recommended.

Assess the need for additional barriers and modifications to ponds and their surrounding area where the location of such structures is within proximity to schools and areas known to be occupied by children.

Gardiner says this is also being addressed with the proposed recommendations shared with the community.

"A partial fence to provide separation between school activities and the public’s activities in the park and the pond is being proposed”, she says. “However, no matter the infrastructure in place, School officials have pointed out in the past that one of the best educational strategies is for parents to be talking to their children about safety whether it be around any ponds, the river, roads, or even railroad tracks that run through the city.”

The City will have a closer look at the report from the Public School Division also being released today and work with all school officials on any recommendations

Gardiner says she’s also expecting a report from the Children’s Advocate which will be carefully considered by the City Administration.

The proposed recommendations under development will be presented first to the Standing Policy Committee on Environment, Utilities and Corporate Services April 16 then to City Council for approval.

• Winter Comfort and Access - Projects that improve comfort and accessibility. 
• Winter Design - Urban design installations which celebrate winter. 
• Winter Activities - Events, festivals and activities that build enthusiasm for winter by taking advantage of winter opportunities and celebrate the fun quality of life.   

The City is reaching out to residents for ideas on how to improve our lives through innovation, data, and technology as part of the Smart Cities Challenge.

“Our City is filled with talented people.  This is our chance to bring people and ideas together to help tackle some of the complex social issues that are affecting the health and safety of families and neighbourhoods,” says Mayor Charlie Clark.

Recently launched by the Government of Canada, the Smart Cities Challenge asks communities to share their best ideas for improving the lives of their residents by becoming a smart city.  Simply explained, smart cities are those that use technology and data to improve livability and opportunities for the city and its residents.

“Saskatoon has a chance to lead the way on quality of life improvements for our residents,” says Lynne Lacroix, Director of Recreation and Community Development.  “We can do this by using technology in ways that support existing and new work in our community and beyond.”

The first step in the application process is to develop a Challenge Statement that defines the outcomes a community aims to achieve.

The focus for Saskatoon’s Challenge Statement is to enhance community safety and wellbeing.  The Challenge Statement must be developed based on the input of a city’s residents, so the City has begun a process of reaching out to individuals, families, community organizations, institutions, and the technology sector.

Saskatoon residents are being asked for their ideas on how to address the challenges our city faces as they relate to community safety and wellbeing.  Be bold, put on your thinking caps and rise to the challenge!

Everyone can get involved by visiting saskatoon.ca/engage on or before Monday, April 2, 2018, and answering four questions to participate in a community-wide brainstorm to narrow down key themes for the Challenge Statement.

“When residents can solve the problems they face, they are far more empowered and engaged in the community and have a strong sense of belonging and purpose,” Lacroix says.

The City is partnering with the Central Urban Métis Federation, Saskatoon Health Authority, Saskatoon Police Service, Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Saskatoon Tribal Council, United Way, and University of Saskatchewan in the development of the Smart Cities Challenge Application.

Challenge Details
​The Challenge has three rounds of competition.  Saskatoon has until Tuesday, April 24, 2018, to submit a Challenge Statement application in the first round.  The Government of Canada will announce round one finalists in Summer 2018, and each finalist will receive $250,000 to further develop their ideas into a full proposal.  Winners will be announced in Spring 2019 and will have their ideas funded through a potential $10 million prize (Eligible Category:  Communities with Populations under 500,000).

Visit the Government of Canada's Challenge website to learn more about Smart Cities, and join the conversation on Twitter with hashtag #smartcitiesCanada.

The City is pleased to add “River and Sky,” a contemporary urban light sculpture by Tony Stallard, to the Placemaker Program’s temporary collection of public art.

The artwork was developed in collaboration with Cree artists, Joseph Naytowhow (performance artist) and Kenneth T. Williams (writer).  The light sculpture features Cree syllabics that can be translated to 'sîpiy mîna kîsik' meaning “River and Sky.”  It will be displayed on the north-facing wall of the Saskatchewan Craft Council on Broadway Avenue.  This is a sister work to “Land of Berries,” currently installed on the north-facing wall of the Persephone Theatre. 

“Saskatoon has one of the most vibrant arts and culture scenes in the country,” says Mayor Charlie Clark.  “Painters, sculptors, singers, playwrights, and many other artists contribute to the beauty, culture, and strength of our community.  The arts provoke thought and stimulate important conversations.  The “River and Sky” installation is a testament to the importance of the arts as it challenges us to reflect on the history of this land and the importance of the ongoing Treaty relationship in our province and community.”

The intention of “River and Sky” was to create a poetic site-specific artwork that reflects the sacred and ritualistic space of Treaty 6.  The artwork connects to the Treaty relationship referencing “as long as the river flows, the grass grows, and the sun shines.”  These words remind us that this is a permanent relationship and that the Treaty is meant to live for generations and generations.  The sculpture also embodies the historic importance of the Elders’ meeting place near the river, and as a contemporary location to gather, meet, and socialize.

“The reflection of “River and Sky” in Cree syllabics through public art helps to create a sense of inclusion and understanding in our community,” says Mary Culbertson, Treaty Commissioner of Saskatchewan with the Office of the Treaty Commissioner.  “This is especially important as we journey together towards Reconciliation.”

The City, in collaboration with the Business Improvement Districts, manages the Placemaker Program to add significance to civic spaces through temporary public art.  These temporary exhibits transform public spaces and engage with audiences to promote an appreciation for contemporary art practices.  All artwork is considered annually and selected by the Public Art Advisory Committee.  Artists can submit any medium.  Preference is given to submissions by emerging artists and pieces that reflect Saskatoon's unique sense of place through its people, history, culture, or landscape.

For more information on the Placemaker Program, please visit saskatoon.ca/placemaker.

Tony Stallard’s Biography
Tony Stallard is an English artist, best known for his large scale public artworks in the United Kingdom and abroad, which utilize bronze, steel, and light sculptures.  Stallard has worked for 25 years with public realm artwork, and his work has been exhibited widely from Canada to Ireland and the Czech Republic.

Joseph Naytowhow’s Biography
Joseph Naytowhow is a gifted Plains/Woodland Cree (nehiyaw) singer/songwriter, storyteller, and voice, stage, and film actor from the Sturgeon Lake First Nation Band in Saskatchewan.  As a child, Joseph was influenced by his grandfather’s traditional and ceremonial chants, as well as the sounds of the fiddle and guitar.  Today he is renowned for his unique style of Cree/English storytelling, combined with original contemporary music and traditional First Nations drum and rattle songs.

Kenneth T. Williams Biography
Kenneth T. Williams is a Cree playwright from the George Gordon First Nation in the Treaty 4 territory.  His plays include Care, Café Daughter, Gordon Winter, Three Little Birds, Bannock Republic, and Thunderstick, and have been professionally produced across Canada.  He is one of ten co-writers for the Gabriel Dumont’s Wild West Show, which is currently on national tour.  He contributes regularly to the podcast, MEDIA INDIGENA, which examines current affairs from an Indigenous perspective.  He lives in Edmonton with his partner, Dr. Melissa Stoops, and is an assistant professor in the University of Alberta’s Department of Drama