News Releases

Brighton* is a proposed residential neighbourhood and the first to be developed in the Holmwood Suburban Development Area. Its boundaries include the Canadian Pacific Railway line and College Park East on the west, College Drive (Highway 5) and Arbor Creek on the north, 8th Street East on the south, and agricultural lands on the east.

The neighbourhood has been designed to be walkable with amenities, transit, and recreational spaces close to homes. It will include a variety of housing, such as one-unit and semi-detached dwellings, townhouses, multiple-unit dwellings such as condominiums and apartments, and mixed-use development combining residential with retail and office space.  Elements will include constructed wetlands, a linear park system, and a complete streets design concept for McOrmond Drive and 8th Street East. Upon completion, Brighton* will be home to approximately 15,259 residents.

The public is invited to attend a “come-and-go” open house to view the proposed Brighton* Neighbourhood Concept Plan and to ask questions of the City of Saskatoon staff and development partners. Details are as follows:

Proposed Brighton* Neighbourhood Concept Plan Open House
Thursday, March 13, 2014
5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
McClure United Church (Multi-Purpose Room)
4025 Taylor Street East

Can’t make the open house?
Visit www.shapingsaskatoon.ca/discussions from March 13 to 27 to view details of the concept plan and to share your thoughts. 

*Neighbourhood Name Subject to City Council Approval

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.

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Warm weather is finally here and snow is beginning to melt. As we committed with the new dedicated road levy, winter operations were designed to reduce the risk of severe rutting on the roads that we saw in 2013. Many streets are melting quickly and while the snow is going to be really soft, it’s not deep enough to cause dangerous ruts. 

Our proactive snow grading and removal on Saskatoon streets this winter benefits us in more ways than one. With less snow on our streets to melt as the weather warms up there is a reduced chance for flooding. The snow piled into windrows will allow that snow to melt slowly, reducing the flooding around catch basins. In addition, the snow removal takes away a lot of sand that would otherwise collect on the priority streets and be difficult to sweep in the spring. We may also see fewer potholes on priority streets with less moisture. 

Even with our proactive snow grading and removal measures, we have dedicated graders addressing areas where water may begin to pool. Grading also continues on narrow streets where rutting is still a risk. Saskatoon can expect to see a number of plans and activities taking place during the Spring:

 Snow Melt Planning 

- Snow Melt Management plans for each neighbourhood are prepared. The 12,000 catch basins across the city are prioritized based on how deep the water can be, and how close it can get to homes and property.

- Important intersections (especially along highways) that may experience flooding during a fast melt are surveyed and monitored regularly. Extra snow is removed in advance and local catch basins are cleared ahead of time if necessary.

- Equipment, staffing and emergency flood resources, such as emergency pumps and sandbags are coordinated.

Snow Melt Activities

- Boilers (steam trucks) will clear ice and snow from catch basins so the melt water can drain directly into the storm sewers. Our storm sewer system can easily carry all of the flow resulting from any snowmelt. Most ponding and flooding around catch basins is a result of snow and ice blocking the drain.

- Snow windrows have been removed along priority roadways.

- Parks crews will remove snow from residential fence lines where necessary and will pump water from play areas or low areas. Extra staff will be made available if they are needed.

- Culverts at rural roads and within the city will be cleared as necessary to allow drainage.

- We will monitor critical intersections, ditches, ponds, culverts, and other locations that may flood during a fast melt. Emergency equipment will remain on standby.

- Staff will be available 24/7 by telephone to manage calls and dispatch equipment for any homeowner concerns that are received.

- Please call the Public Works Customer Service Call Centre at 306-975-2476 to report any issues or emergencies.

Although the snow melt can be unpredictable, past experience has shown that having a plan with extra resources available allows good flexibility to respond to the situation as it develops.

 Reduce your risk of a snowmelt flood:

Some of the following tips involve snow shovelling which is heavy work. Consider doing a bit at a time and please use care and caution. If you have health concerns, ask for assistance in shovelling. 

- Remove snow from around your foundation. Pay particular attention to the areas around window wells.

- Most lots drain along the outside edges. Remove snow from these areas.

- Keep the snow in your yard. Shovelling onto streets or lanes could block drains.

- Help keep catch basins clear. Where possible, safely clear snow, ice and debris from the catch basins in your area.

- Clear snow and ice from around the bottom of your downspouts and extend the downspouts at least two metres so that water drains away from your foundation.

- Check your roof and eavestroughs for excess snow. Consider hiring a professional to clear snow from your roof. A roof rake may help to clear the snow and debris from the edge of your roof.

- Consider using sandbags to block water from entering low-lying areas beside your foundation.

- If water is getting close to your foundation, use an appropriate pump to drain it to the gutter or back lane. Please use all equipment properly and follow safety guidelines.

For more information and tips, including a video about snowmelt, visit saskatoon.ca.  As the snow melts, you may encounter potholes. Watch for our new “Report a Pothole” online tool coming on March 17, 2014. Visit saskatoon.ca and look under “Check This Out”.  

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.

Your 2014 Property Tax Notice will look different this spring.  The City of Saskatoon has revealed a new look and simpler format that is easier to read.

To arrive at the new format, the City considered previous feedback from citizens and from our front-line customer services staff, incorporated the goals of City Council, and also included elements of best practises from other municipalities. In preparing the new format, the City also considered the use of clear language, important to all property owners, both new and existing.

The 2014 Property Tax Notice Project is now on our shapingsaskatoon.ca website. Look under “Discussions.” You can view a sample of the new format, detailed information on what you will find on the 2014 Property Tax Notice, along with Frequently Asked Questions.

The Shaping Saskatoon discussion on the new Property Tax Notice format also gives a great opportunity for you to tell us about other tax-related information you wish to see on our website. Are you able to find answers to tax questions under “P” for Property Tax?  As we undertake the ongoing development of our new website, your comments will help us give better service.

Shaping Saskatoon is the City’s new online community engagement tool. It is easy to use and a great place to share your comments, and learn more about new projects that interest you. Citizen feedback on the new Property Tax Notice format is important to us, and will be considered for the finalized version this spring.

The City of Saskatoon strives to be the best managed city in Canada through an ongoing commitment to continuous improvement. With a goal of consistently providing high quality service to citizens, the City continues to respond to the needs of the changing community by looking at things differently – and then making them better.

For other detailed information on property taxes, assessment, and how the City distributes taxes, you can also visit our website, saskatoon.ca and click on the Property Assessment & Tax Tool, located under Online Services. Please note: our website will be updated with 2014 values in May after the Mill Rates have been approved and the tax calculations have been finalized.

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.

As the City’s Placemaker Public Art Program prepares for the spring installation of new art throughout Saskatoon’s key commercial districts, residents may notice some changes in these areas over the next few weeks.  

The City’s Visual Arts Placement Jury has approved the removal of the following temporary art installations: 

From Riversdale:

Winged Ascent

Stoic Dignity

Mediator

Maize  

From Downtown:

Pinnacle IX – Song of Ancients

Head

Walk in Beauty

Arabesque

Aphrodite (L’Espalier)

Sacrarium

Play  

From Broadway:

Buskers

Queen

Sentinel 

The Placemaker Program is a robust initiative that gives local, provincial and national artists the opportunity to have their work prominently featured in Saskatoon.  Currently, the City is accepting proposals for the Placemaker Program from independent artists or teams of artists to provide temporary public art to key commercial districts in Saskatoon.  The proposed art may be two or three dimensional work, installations, interventions or digital media such as video projection.  

For an information package and application form, please visit www.saskatoon.ca and search under “P” for Placemaker Program. The deadline for applications is April 8, 2014 at which time the City’s Visual Arts Placement Jury will adjudicate the applications received and select the works to be exhibited, in consultation with the Saskatoon’s Business Improvement Districts and with City Staff.  It is anticipated that the new pieces will be installed this spring. 

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.

APPLICATIONS TO CIVIC BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

There is currently a vacancy on the Board of Revision.  This quasi-judicial Board hears and determines appeals arising from assessment procedures in accordance with Section 197 of The Cities Act.  Appointees to the Board of Revision shall also serve on the Licence Appeal Board which hears appeals regarding the City’s various licensing bylaws.

Interested candidates should submit their applications by the deadline at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 28, 2014. All applications will be kept on file and reviewed throughout the year as openings occur.

Application forms can be obtained from the City Clerk’s Office at City Hall (second floor, 222 – 3^rd Avenue North), or online at www.saskatoon.ca, search under “A” for Appointments to Boards and Committees.

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.

Saskatoon Transit is proposing a series of Route Adjustments for 2014, and we would like your feedback before a final proposal is presented to council.

The proposed 2014 Route Adjustments were designed based on comments and ideas previously gathered from you, our customers. Each event will include a brief presentation, followed by a Q&A session and an opportunity for attendees to visit information stations. Transit staff will also be available to answer questions and hear what you have to say about the proposed route adjustments. 

Plans are to incorporate your feedback into the proposed adjustments and present a final report to Council for their approval.

The open house events will be held:

Tuesday, March 11, 2014
6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Mount Royal Collegiate Cafeteria (2220 Rusholme Road)

Wednesday March 12, 2014
6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Alice Turner Library (110 Nelson Road)

Free shuttles will be provided every 15 minutes from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. between the open house locations and the nearest mall terminal.

For more information, visit www.saskatoon.ca and click on “T” for transit or call the Transit Customer Service Centre at 306-975-3100.

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.

Not unlike the rest of the province, Saskatoon continues to respond to reports of water service issues in areas all across the city.  While repair crews are repairing locations quickly, the backlog is slowly growing.  The target for having repairs complete and the water back on from when it is turned off is 48 hours, in some cases this will be longer, even up to four days.  This is a challenging time of year for contract support; however, we continue to engage outside support when possible.

Temporary Water
We empathize with affected residents and businesses who are going days without running water and we are doing as much as possible to try and provide temporary drinking water.  Water trailers will continue to be provided to affected areas, but it can take longer than the normal eight hours to be available.  Bottled water was delivered to almost every home that didn’t have a water trailer on Wednesday.  We will continue to try and offer bottled water if a water trailer is not available, but over the weekend, it may take longer. 

We are pleased to be able to offer free admission for affected residents to use the shower facilities at the City Leisure Centre closest to them.  They will require identification or a recent utility bill showing their address, which will be compared to list of homes affected by a water main break.  

Weather contributes to water main breaks
This weekend, temperatures are expected to rise, which is great for most of us, but could mean water main breaks will continue to occur at this rate or higher.  What is different this year is that the ground frost level has reached as deep as the underground pipes.  Each time the temperature changes, the frost level can move, putting pressure on the pipes causing them to shift.  If there is already a weak spot in the pipe, caused by age, corrosion or previous work, it can break. 

Be prepared
Every home should have an emergency preparedness plan for any time of the year, not just for water outage.  Residents in areas where water main breaks have occurred in the past few years, including neighbourhoods adjacent to current water main breaks, are encouraged to be prepared by having extra drinking water stored as a precaution.  The recommended supply of water to have on hand for a 72-hour period is 3.8 litres (one gallon) per person or pet per day.  Emergency preparedness information is available on the Government of Canada’s public safety website getprepared.gc.ca, including further recommendations for an emergency water supply. 

Frozen water connections
Home owners are also reporting frozen water connections, where there is a blockage on the water connection from the City’s water main to the private home.  If your water does not turn on, it may be an issue with the private portion of your water connection.  If there is an issue on the City portion, we will come out and use specialized equipment to defrost the line from your home.  To help prevent this, we recommend making sure the pipes are well-insulated, including the portion at the outside walls of your home. 

Current water main breaks
All available staff and contractors are focused on isolating the location of the breaks, preparing the sites for excavation (identifying any underground utilities or hazards), and repairing the pipes.  Different expertise is required at each stage of repairing a water main break, so even if no workers are present, each location is scheduled and will be repaired as quickly as possible.   

Water service is currently off at the following locations:
- North of 1540 Avenue G N/1537 Ave F N on 37th St West
- 2130 Pembina Drive
- 929 Macklem Drive
- 1044 East Centre
- 1705 Quebec Avenue
- 11125 Coy Avenue
- 52 Athabasca Crescent
- 2309 McKinnon Street
- 13 Laurentian Drive
- 51/53 Yale Crescent
- 2416 Underwood Avenue 
- 138 Dalhousie Crescent  

Current water main breaks are available on the City’s website.  This list will be updated daily, including over the weekend. 

We want to thank everyone for their cooperation and understanding.  If you are affected by a water outage and have any questions, or to report a water main break, please call the Public Works customer service call centre 24/7 at 306-975-2476.  Find out more about the Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory that is in effect when the water is turned back on. 

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 from the links at saskatoon.ca.

Starting at 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 6, Spadina Crescent East will be closed to traffic between 21st and 22nd Streets while a contractor works to assess the condition of an underground pipe. Motorists are advised to use 4th Avenue as an alternate route.

The roadway should reopen later that same evening, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Find up-to-date traffic detour information at www.saskatoon.ca/go/traffic and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Today and tomorrow the following lane restrictions are in place while crews access manholes: 

- Avenue C northbound curb lane from Circle Drive to Cynthia Street,
- Cynthia Street eastbound lanes from Hanselman Avenue to Speers Avenue. 

The restrictions are expected to be lifted by late afternoon on March 6, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Find up-to-date traffic detour information at www.saskatoon.ca/go/traffic and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

The City of Saskatoon will be hosting ParaSport Day on Friday, March 14, 2014, at Cosmo Civic Centre (3130 Laurier Drive).  ParaSport Day is a free, one day event for youth ages 8 to 16.

Parasport is sport for people with a disability. It is "para"llel to sport for able-bodied athletes, with adapted equipment or rules to make the game fun and accessible for everyone.

Youth of all abilities are invited to come and try featured sports and the adapted equipment supplied by parasport organizations in the community.  Coaches and athletes from the parasport organizations will be there to lead skill development and teach youth wheelchair basketball, sledge hockey, goalball, and cross-country skiing. There will also be an opportunity to learn how to get involved in parasport, and the roles necessary for the different adaptive sports.

The morning will kickoff with inspirational presentations from first-class parasport athletes; Amy Alsop a two-time Paralympic gold medalist in goalball, and Miranda Biletski a RBC Paralympian and Paralympic hopeful for the 2016 Summer Games in wheelchair rugby.

This free event runs from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and snacks and lunch will be provided to all registrants. To register, please call 306-975-3378 by Monday, March 10, 2014.

ParaSport Day is being hosted by the City of Saskatoon Community Development in partnership with Saskatchewan Wheelchair Sports, Canadian Sport Centre – Saskatchewan, SaskSport, Canadian Paralympic Committee, and Saskatchewan Blind Sports Association. 

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.

Residents affected by recent water main breaks are invited to use shower facilities at their nearest Leisure Centre.  The service will be provided at no cost until necessary repairs have been made to the affected areas, during the centre’s regular hours of operation.  Residents will need proof of address, for example, in the form of a driver’s license or utility bill, to gain entry to the facility.

Leisure Centres are conveniently located throughout the city.  Please visit www.saskatoon.ca/go/leisurecentres for hours of operation and phone numbers:

• Cosmo Civic Centre:  3130 Laurier Drive
• Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre:  1110 Idylwyld Drive
• Lakewood Civic Centre:  1635 McKercher Drive
• Lawson Civic Centre:  225 Primrose Drive 
• Saskatoon Field House:  2020 College Drive
• Shaw Centre:  122 Bowlt Crescent

Residents and businesses in affected areas can access drinking water from an emergency water supply trailer located nearby until the service is restored.  Instructions for use are located near the spout.  The City operates four water trailers; once the water is restored to an area, the trailer is relocated as required.  The City makes every effort to have a water trailer available within eight hours of the water being shut off.  However, with the number of water main breaks we are currently experiencing, this time will be extended.

The City wants to thank everyone for their cooperation and understanding.  Crews will do their best to restore water service within 48 hours of turning it off, but cold weather can affect equipment and the amount of time that workers can be outside. 

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.

The Neighbourhood Level Infill Development Strategy recommended new forms of residential infill be permitted, such as the development of garden and garage suites.  Garden and garage suites are small residences built as part of a detached garage or as an accessory structure.
Residents are invited to attend a “come and go” open house to learn more about the proposed regulations for garden and garage suites, including development standards, design guidelines, building code regulations, and the approval process.  Staff will be in attendance to answer questions and gather feedback.  Details are as follows:
Proposed Garden and Garage Suite Regulations Open House
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Frances Morrison Library (Room 3 – Lower Level)

For more information and project updates on the Neighbourhood Level Infill Development Strategy, including garden and garage suites, visit www.saskatoon.ca and look under “I” for Infill Development Strategy.  Materials and information presented at the open house will be posted on the website following the public meeting, along with opportunity for residents to submit comments online.

The Neighbourhood Level Infill Development Strategy is one component of the overall “Growing Forward!  Shaping Saskatoon” project to help guide investments to accommodate Saskatoon’s growth to half a million people.
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.

CY14–116
Based on information released by Statistics Canada in late February, the City of Saskatoon’s Planning and Development Division has calculated that Saskatoon’s population has topped 250,000 people.
By using Statistics Canada’s 248,293 population figures for the city of Saskatoon at July 1, 2013, and applying their suggested 3 percent annual growth rate, City Planners estimate that the city’s population has reached approximately 253,000 people as of March 1, 2014.
“This is an exciting milestone for Saskatoon.  Based on the information from Statistics Canada, we have increased by a rate of 40.4 per thousand, which hasn’t been achieved by any other census metropolitan in more than 15 years,” Planning and Development Director Alan Wallace says.
“This new estimate confirms that Saskatoon is ‘the place to be’.  Our growing, thriving, economy and high quality of life make the city an attractive place for new residents and recent Canadians to call home.  And through the City’s Growing Forward, Shaping Saskatoon public consultations and other important growth strategies that are currently underway, we will ensure that plans are in place to accommodate this growth so Saskatoon continues to be a great place to live.”
Using the same calculation for the Saskatoon Census Metropolitan Area (CMA), which includes surrounding rural communities, it is estimated that the CMA population has reached 298,000 people.
Planning and Development regularly calculates population estimates using information from Statistics Canada, factoring in recent trends in growth.  These projections assist City Council and the Administration in developing its policy framework, long-range plans, and forecasting future municipal servicing needs and land consumption.
For more information, visit www.saskatoon.ca and look under “P” for Population.

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.

The Clarence Downey Speed Skating Oval, which was originally scheduled to close on Sunday, March 2, 2014, will be extending its season for an additional week.  The unusually cold weather has helped to maintain quality ice conditions and allowed the City of Saskatoon to offer bonus public skating times to citizens. 

The Clarence Downey Speed Skating Oval will be open from Tuesday, March 4, 2014 to Sunday, March 9, 2014 during the following times: 

• Tuesday to Thursday:  2 p.m. - 8 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday:  10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

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.

This weekend, temperatures dropped to minus 50 degrees Celsius with the wind chill overnight, causing the ground frost to move even deeper.  The ground frost level is deeper than normal, and the colder the temperature is, the more pressure it puts on the underground pipes, causing them to shift.  If there is already a weak spot in the pipe, caused by age, corrosion or previous work, it can break.

A high number of water main breaks occurred this past weekend, keeping staff extremely busy.  From Friday evening at 9:00 p.m. until Sunday evening at 9:00 p.m., 15 water main breaks occurred.  In addition, a break occurred on the connection pipe at Brevoort Park School, requiring a private contractor for the repair.  This activity is well above the average of one-two per day for this time of year. 

Be prepared
This elevated rate of water main breaks is anticipated to level off this week, but will still remain higher than normal for this time of year.  Residents in areas where water main breaks have occurred in the past few years, including neighbourhoods adjacent to current water main breaks, are encouraged to be prepared by having extra drinking water stored as a precaution.  The recommended supply of water to have on hand for a 72-hour period is 3.8 litres (one gallon) per person or pet per day.

Frozen water connections
Home owners are also reporting frozen water connections, where there is a blockage on the water connection from the City’s water main to the private home.  If your water does not turn on, it may be an issue with the private portion of your water connection.  If there is an issue on the City portion, we will come out and use specialized equipment to defrost the line from your home.  To help prevent this, we recommend making sure the pipes are well-insulated, including the portion at the outside walls of your home.

Current water main breaks
All available staff and contractors are focussed on isolating the location of the breaks, preparing the sites for excavation (identifying any underground utilities or hazards), and repairing the pipes.  Different expertise is required at each stage of repairing a water main break, so even if no workers are present, each location is scheduled and will be repaired as quickly as possible. 

Water service is currently off at the following locations:
•  74 Phillips Crescent (water trailer on-site)
•  2421 Ewart Avenue (water trailer on-site)
•  500 block of 6th Street East (water trailer on-site)
•  1300 7th Avenue North (water trailer on-site)
•  2903 Ferguson Avenue
•  Diefenbaker Drive between Fairlight Drive and 22nd Street West
•  300 Bate Crescent
•  1326 Ave Y North
•  3225 11th Street West
•  141 Pacific Avenue
•  21 Bow Court

Residents and businesses in affected areas can access drinking water from an emergency water supply trailer located nearby until the service is restored.  Instructions for use are located near the spout.  The City operates four water trailers; once the water is restored to an area, the trailer is relocated as required.  We make every effort to make a water trailer available within eight hours of the water being shut off.  However, with the number of water main breaks we are currently experiencing, this time will be extended.

We want to thank everyone for their cooperation and understanding.  We will do our best to restore water service within 48 hours of turning it off, but the extreme cold can affect equipment and the amount of time that workers can be outside.  If you are affected by a water outage and have any questions, or to report a water main break, please call the Public Works customer service call centre 24/7 at 306-975-2476.  For information about the Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory that is in effect when the water is turned back on, visit saskatoon.ca and select W for Water Advisory.

Emergency preparedness information is available on the Government of Canada’s public safety website getprepared.gc.ca, including further recommendations for an emergency water supply.

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 from the links at saskatoon.ca.

-30-

This weekend, eleven water main breaks occurred in a 26-hour period, breaking a record set last weekend with seven in the same time period.  So far this weekend, thirteen water main breaks occurred between Friday evening and the time of this announcement.  This is well above the average of one-two per day for this time of year. 

This rate of water main breaks is anticipated to slow down as the temperatures increase this week.  Still, residents in areas where water main breaks have occurred in the past few years, including neighbourhoods adjacent to current water main breaks, are encouraged to be prepared by having extra drinking water stored as a precaution.  The recommended supply of water to have on hand for a 72-hour period is 3.8 litres (one gallon) per person or pet per day.

All available staff and contractors are focussed on isolating the location of the breaks, preparing the sites for excavation (identifying any underground utilities or hazards), and repairing the pipes.  Different expertise is required at each stage of repairing a water main break, so even if no workers are present, each location is scheduled and will be repaired as quickly as possible.  In this extreme cold, workers must take frequent breaks to warm up and prevent injuries caused from exposure to the elements. 

Water service is currently off at the following locations:
•  74 Phillips Crescent (water trailer on-site)
•  2421 Ewart Avenue (water trailer on-site)
•  500 block of 6th Street East (water trailer on-site)
•  1300 7th Avenue North (water trailer on-site)
•  2903 Ferguson Avenue
•  Diefenbaker Drive between Fairlight Drive and 22nd Street West
•  300 Bate Crescent
•  1326 Ave Y North
•  3225 11th Street West
•  141 Pacific Avenue

Residents and businesses in affected areas can access drinking water from an emergency water supply trailer located nearby until the service is restored.  Instructions for use are located near the spout.  The City operates four water trailers; once the water is restored to a location, it is relocated as required. We make every effort to make a water trailer available within eight hours of the water being shut off.  However, with the number of water main breaks we are currently experiencing, this time will be extended.

We want to thank everyone for their cooperation and understanding.  We will do our best to restore water service within 48 hours of turning it off, but the extreme cold can affect equipment and the amount of time that workers can be outside.  If you are affected by a water outage and have any questions, or to report a water main break, please call the Public Works customer service call centre 24/7 at 306-975-2476.  For information about the Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory that is in effect when the water is turned back on, visit saskatoon.ca and select W for Water Advisory.

Emergency preparedness information is available on the Canadian Red Cross website, including further recommendations for an emergency water supply.

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 from the links at saskatoon.ca.

-30-

Similar to what was experienced last weekend in Saskatoon when the temperature dropped significantly, eight water main breaks occurred beginning at 9:00 p.m. Friday, February 28 and the release of this announcement.  This is well above the average of one-two per day for this time of year.  In January and February Saskatoon experienced 85 water main breaks, compared to 69 during the same period in 2013.

All available staff and contractors are focussed on isolating the location of the breaks, preparing the sites for excavation (identifying any underground utilities or hazards), and repairing the pipes.  Different expertise is required at each stage of repairing a water main break, so even if no workers are present, each location is scheduled and will be repaired as quickly as possible.  In this extreme cold, workers must take frequent breaks to warm up and prevent injuries caused from exposure to the elements. 

Water service is currently off at the following locations:

• 623 Main Street (water trailer on-site)
• 74 Phillips Crescent (water trailer on-site)
• 2421 Ewart Avenue (water trailer on-site)
• 628 10th Street East (water trailer on-site)
• 3366 Fairlight Drive on Diefenbaker Drive
• 2903 Ferguson Avenue
• 500 block of 6th Street East

Residents and businesses in affected areas can access drinking water from emergency water supply trailers located nearby until the service is restored.  Instructions for use are located near the spout.  Once the water is restored to a location, the water trailer is relocated as required. We make every effort to make a water trailer available within eight hours of the water being shut off.  However, with the number of water main breaks we are currently experiencing, affected areas may anticipate this time to be extended.

We want to thank everyone for their cooperation and understanding.  We will do our best to restore water service within 48 hours of turning it off, but the extreme cold can affect equipment and the amount of time that workers can be outside.  If you are affected by a water outage and have any questions or to report a water main break, please call the Public Works customer service call centre 24/7 at 306-975-2476.

Emergency preparedness information is available on the Canadian Red Cross website, including recommendations for an emergency water supply.

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.

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The City of Saskatoon (City) is pleased to announce that the final city-owned condo in the Pleasant Hill Village Project has been purchased by new homeowners, as part of an affordable housing initiative.

The Pleasant Hill Village Project includes two separate developments with a total of 36 units.  As part of an agreement to attract developers to participate, the City agreed to purchase any unsold units.  By December 1, 2010, the City had purchased 18 units, all ground-level townhouses designed for families.  Four market sales occurred between December 2010 and May 2012.  The units were sold through two realtors, and ranged in price from $189,922 to $241,034.

During its May 28, 2012 meeting, City Council adopted a new 9.99 Percent Sales Incentive  Grant funded from the Affordable Housing Reserve and a five-year property tax abatement for the project.  The adopted sales incentive grant and the property tax abatement have been instrumental in closing sales of 14 units since June 2012.

Since the Pleasant Hill Village project started in 2006, a main objective was to offer home ownership opportunities in a neighbourhood where rental occupancy rates were high.  Pleasant Hill Village is intended to attract families who want to live in a new home, in a community with a new school and wellness centre, daycare, and surrounded by a new park space, playgrounds, soccer fields, and a new seniors’ residence. 

The Pleasant Hill Village Redevelopment Project will continue in 2014, with the release of three more sites for development.  The entire project is expected to be completed in 2015.

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.

 
                
On Sunday, March 2 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. the following road closures will be in place to accommodate the Brainfreeze running event:

- Eastlake Avenue between 10th Street and Saskatchewan Crescent,
- 19th Street eastbound curb lane approaching the Broadway Bridge,
- Broadway Bridge southbound curb lane (leaving downtown),
- Saskatchewan Crescent between Eastlake Avenue and the Broadway Bridge
Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when passing event participants, watch for pedestrians and spectators, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.
Know before you go! Find up-to-date traffic detour information at www.saskatoon.ca/go/traffic and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

While spring is on its way, Environment Canada is forecasting extremely cold temperatures over the weekend of February 28 to March 2, 2014.  This is an update of City services and operations for the weekend and what to expect with the cold.  For 24/7 updates on service interruptions for Saskatoon Light & Power, Saskatoon Transit, Landfill and Garbage Collection service, click on Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca, or connect with the City on Twitter or Facebook.  

Be safe
We hope that everyone stays warm and safe as temperatures continue to drop.  According to Environment Canada, temperatures of -40 C or lower put individuals at a high or very high risk of frostbite.  If you are heading outside you should cover all skin, dress in warm layers with a wind-resistant outer layer, stay dry and keep active.  At temperatures of -55 C or colder, the Saskatoon Fire Department recommends that people stay indoors.          

We would also like to remind you that these cold temperatures can be painful for your four-legged friends and that you should limit their time outdoors.  

Driving conditions in extreme cold temperatures
Roadway crews will be working continuously to provide safe driving conditions with sanding as required.  Extreme cold can create icy conditions on sidewalks and roads, especially on bridges and overpasses.  In addition:  
- The very cold road conditions combine with ice crystals in the air settle and cause roadways to be more slippery than usual winter driving conditions.  Condensation, which drifts from vehicle exhaust when stopped or in rush hour traffic near intersections, may also contribute to more frost on the road.
- In very cold weather, sand does not stick to the roadway in the high speed traffic paths as long as it would under warmer temperatures. Salt is ineffective below -16 C.
- We take extra precautionary measures in extreme weather conditions: All bridge decks are checked and sanded every two hours.  Bridge decks are usually sanded just before rush hour because it’s very difficult to sand during peak times.  

City Crews will be doing their best to keep roads sanded, so please watch for equipment on the road.  The large machines used are equipped with flashing amber lights, move slowly in teams of two or more and can be found on the road at any time of day or night.  By keeping a safe distance from the equipment and approaching slowly, we can all be safe on the road.  

For those who are making trips outside of City Limits, please remember to pack a cold weather emergency kit and keep it handy in your vehicle.  This kit should include: Shovel, matches/survival candle, flashlight, road maps, extra clothing / footwear, sand or kitty litter, emergency food pack, first aid kit, an ice scraper and a blanket.  

Water main repairs in extreme cold temperatures Water main breaks have levelled off, but a significant drop in temperature can cause frost to move deeper into the ground.  Frost movement in the ground is what causes the pipes to shift and can damage weak points. Please call the Public Works customer service call centre 24/7 at 306-975-2476 to report a break or for more information.
- Water & Sewer crews are available over the weekend to attend to any issues with the water and sewer mains, but may require frequent breaks to warm up during the extreme cold. 
- The safety of workers is very important and they are encouraged to take the time to warm up and will not be working outside at temperatures with the wind chill below -55 C.
- Water trailers will provide temporary service for residents and businesses without water service.  They are insulated and propane-heated, so extreme cold should not affect their function. 

Saskatoon Transit in extreme cold temperatures
Saskatoon Transit is preparing to adjust internal workflows to help ensure buses remain on the road and on schedule during the colder temperatures. Please remember that the kneeling or ramp features do not work in temperatures below -25 C.
Saskatoon Transit will be operating the warming area at the downtown bus mall on extended hours throughout the weekend:

- Friday, February 28, 2014 – Closing at 10:30 p.m.
- Saturday, March 1, 2014 – Open from 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
- Sunday, March 2, 2014 – Open at 9:00 a.m. and extending hours as required. 
Please note that these hours are extended for the warming area only - customers will not be able to purchase passes during the extended hours.  To stay up-to-date about the Transit service, customers can phone 306-975-3100 for information or sign up for the new Transit Service Alert at saskatoon.ca.

We are always prepared
While the City of Saskatoon is always prepared to handle any emergency that may arise throughout the year, we are hyper aware of how extreme cold can be a defining characteristic of an emergency in the winter months.  Our Emergency Measures Organization personnel are ready to respond appropriately, if required, to provide residents with necessary assistance.
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.

The Neighbourhood Level Infill Development Strategy recommended new forms of residential infill be permitted, such as the development of garden and garage suites.  Garden and garage suites are small residences built as part of a detached garage or as an accessory structure.
Residents are invited to attend a “come and go” open house to learn more about the proposed regulations for garden and garage suites, including development standards, design guidelines, building code regulations, and the approval process.  Staff will be in attendance to answer questions and gather feedback.  Details are as follows:
Proposed Garden and Garage Suite Regulations Open House
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Frances Morrison Library (Room 3 – Lower Level)
For more information and project updates on the Neighbourhood Level Infill Development Strategy, including garden and garage suites, visit www.saskatoon.ca and look under “I” for Infill Development Strategy.  Materials and information presented at the open house will be posted on the website following the public meeting, along with opportunity for residents to submit comments online.

The Neighbourhood Level Infill Development Strategy is one component of the overall “Growing Forward!  Shaping Saskatoon” project to help guide investments to accommodate Saskatoon’s growth to half a million people.
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.

Diefenbaker Drive is reduced to single lane traffic in each direction between Fairlight Drive and 22nd Street for emergency water main repairs beginning today, February 27. Two-way traffic will be accommodated in the southbound lanes as crews work in the northbound lanes. 
The work should be completed and restrictions lifted by 7:00 a.m. on Friday morning, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers. 
Know before you go! Find up-to-date traffic detour information at www.saskatoon.ca/go/traffic and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

The Clarence Downey Speed Skating Oval will be wrapping up for the season on Sunday, March 2, 2014. 

The City of Saskatoon thanks citizens for their patronage. Public skating at the indoor municipal rinks will be available until Thursday, March 20, 2014.

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.

The City of Saskatoon’s (City) Recreation & Sport Division is conducting a research study to gather the public’s opinions, perceptions, and expectations of the City’s seven indoor Leisure Centres (Cosmo Civic Centre, Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre, Fitness Circuit & Terry Fox Track, Lakewood Civic Centre, Lawson Civic Centre, Saskatoon Field House, and Shaw Centre). 

Fast Consulting has been hired to administer the research on behalf of the City, and over the next few weeks, they will be gathering public feedback via telephone, online, and site intercept surveys.  As an incentive to answer the 12 to 18 minute questionnaire, participants will be entered into a draw for $2,500 worth of prizes, such as iPad minis and cash cards.   

To give your feedback, a link to the Leisure Centre Research Survey will be available until Saturday, March 15, 2014, on the City’s new community engagement website www.shapingsaskatoon.ca.

The research findings will provide important insights about Leisure Centre facility and program offerings, customer service levels, usage patterns, admission options, and promotional opportunities.  The information gathered will be used as part of future planning being undertaken by Recreation & Sport. 

For more information about the study or to complete the survey over the phone, please contact Fast Consulting at 306-975-3070 Ext. 235. 

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. 

For Immediate Release:  February 26, 2014

This year marks the 25th anniversary since the inception of the Cultural Diversity and Race Relations Committee, which highlights the continued commitment to the citizens of Saskatoon to create an inclusive community where everyone is welcomed, respected, and can live without facing racism or discrimination.

The Opening Ceremony for Cultural Diversity and Race Relations Month will be on Monday, March 3, 2014, at 1:30 p.m. in Council Chambers, City Hall (222 - 3rd Avenue North). Everyone is welcome to attend.  The ceremony will include greetings from Senator Lillian Dyck; His Worship Mayor Donald Atchison; and Saskatchewan Human Rights Chief Commissioner, Judge David M. Arnot.  A flag-raising in Civic Square (beside City Hall off 23rd Street), will follow the ceremony.

In 1990, City Council proclaimed March as Race Relations Month, marking the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination which falls on March 21 annually.  The date commemorates the 1960 Sharpeville massacre in South Africa where peaceful demonstrators against apartheid were killed by police officers.

In recognition, during the month of March, a number of activities are initiated by a diverse cross-section of the community ranging from elementary school children to community group representatives. The Living in Harmony Awards Ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 21, 2014, at Centennial Collegiate (160 Nelson Road), celebrating the positive initiatives taking place within Saskatoon. 

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.

A full closure on 20th Street West between Avenue E and F is required for an emergency water main repair, beginning today, February 25, at 12:00 p.m. Drivers are encouraged to use 22nd Street West as an alternative.

The work should be completed and restrictions lifted by 7:00 a.m. on Wednesday morning, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Find up-to-date traffic detour information at www.saskatoon.ca/go/traffic and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Saskatoon is experiencing a higher than normal amount of water main breaks across the city.  For the past two weeks, one to four breaks have been reported daily, which is almost twice the normal rate.  This past weekend, from Saturday morning to Sunday morning, seven breaks occurred, which is extremely unusual.  Experienced City and contractor crews are maintaining the commitment to have repairs complete and the water back on within 48 hours, working 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. seven days a week, with overtime as staff is available. 

While a leak or break in the underground water pipes (water main) can occur at any time of year, the extended cold temperatures we’ve been experiencing causes the soil to freeze quite deep in the ground.  In an average winter, the ground frost ranges from 1.5 to 2.4 metres (5 to 8 feet) deep.  Most of the water system pipes are located 2.7 to 3 metres (9 to 10 feet) deep and currently, the average ground frost is 2.9 metres (9.5 feet) deep.  This freezing can cause expansion and contraction that creates force on the water main.  Other factors that contribute to breaks are the age and type of pipe (cast iron pipes installed prior to 1970 can be more susceptible); soil conditions that cause corrosion; and pressure on the system, such as very hot, dry days with high water use. 

“The City would like to thank residents and businesses for their patience and understanding, says Acting Director of Public Works Trent Schmidt.  “The inconvenience of a water service interruption alone can be frustrating, but with the extremely cold temperature, it can feel unbearable.  We want you to know that we have extra staff and contractors working as quickly as possible to get the water back on.” 

If you see water in the street or on your lawn, please phone the Public Works customer service call centre 24 hours/day, 7 days/week at 306-975-2476.  A water & sewer trouble crew will be dispatched to inspect the location within 30-60 minutes.  There are four water trailers available to provide a temporary water supply for residents and businesses without water service.  We make every effort to make a water trailer available within eight hours of the water being shut off.  However, with the number of water main breaks we are currently experiencing, this may extend to 12 hours.  

Repair Process

Immediately following the report of a water main break, a water & sewer trouble crew is dispatched to determine the location, impact and severity of the break. First the water main is "controlled", by closing nearby valves, which shuts off the water service.  Once the general repair location has been identified and the water main is shut off, special equipment is used to find the precise location of the break.  

A separate water & sewer maintenance crew makes the repairs, which can begin up to 24 hours after the water is turned off.  A typical water main repair can take 10-12 hours, but may be extended up to 32 hours if complications occur.  Prior to any excavation, the underground utilities are located to ensure the repair can be done safely without causing further damage.  When frozen, it can take longer to break through the ground and expose the damaged pipes.  Once the repair is complete, the pipes are flushed and water is tested to ensure water quality before water service is restored.   

The excavation will be filled in with gravel until the spring when the temperature is warm enough to apply asphalt and repair the road.  Any damage to the sidewalk, driveways and private property from the repair excavation will be repaired during the summer, in consultation with the property owner.

Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory

When the water is turned off, affected addresses are given a yellow doorhanger with information about what they can expect and a recommendation to boil water for consumption once the water is back on for up to 72 hours until laboratory tests confirm the water is safe.  A green doorhanger will be delivered to notify residents they Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory is lifted.  For more information, visit saskatoon.ca and click on P for Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory. 

For more information, visit Saskatoon.ca and click on W for Water Main Break or call Public Works customer service call centre at 306-975-2476.  Know Before you Go! Subscribe to Traffic Detour service alerts for notifications of detours caused by water main repairs or other roadway work. 

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.

The City of Saskatoon’s (City) Cultural Diversity and Race Relations Committee is now accepting nominations for the annual “Living in Harmony” awards, which recognize local organizations or individuals for their efforts in the elimination of racial discrimination.  The deadline for nominations is Friday, February 28, 2014.

Since 1994, the City’s Cultural Diversity and Race Relations Committee has presented the “Living in Harmony” Recognition Awards at a special ceremony to mark March 21 - International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.  The Committee presents these awards annually to celebrate the positive initiatives taking place within the community.  This year, the awards will be presented at Centennial Collegiate (160 Nelson Road) on Friday, March 21, 2014, starting at 10 a.m.

Nomination forms are available at www.saskatoon.ca under “L” for Living in Harmony or from the Cultural Diversity and Race Relations Office at Cosmo Civic Centre (3130 Laurier Drive).  Nominations are to be submitted to the Cultural Diversity and Race Relations Office.

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.

For Immediate Release:  February 24, 2014

The City of Saskatoon would like to remind you about our public event on Tuesday February 25, 2014 at TCU Place to provide input on future options for transit, rapid transit, bridges and growth along major corridors as Saskatoon plans for growth to half a million people.

Growing Forward! Shaping Saskatoon is a city-wide initiative that will take us from visioning to action and shape the City’s Growth Plan to Half a Million.  It is a proactive way to plan for our future and help us navigate the challenges associated with rapid population growth.  The Growth Plan to Half a Million will help guide civic investments over the next 30 to 40 years by addressing three key elements:

Shaping Growth  How do we grow along major corridors?
Shaping Transit  How do we move more people?
Shaping Bridges  How do we manage infrastructure investments?

“The intent of the Growth Plan to Half a Million is to create more options for citizens to move around, work, shop and play closer to home while improving access throughout the entire city,” says Alan Wallace, Director of Planning and Development. “Community input will help us plan to grow in a way that is balanced and responsible, while ensuring that our city is prosperous and continues to be a great place to live.”

Please join us to share your ideas on how Saskatoon should plan to grow to half a million people:

Growing Forward! Shaping Saskatoon Public Event
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m
(Presentations to start at 10:15 a.m and 6:15 p.m. respectively.)
TCU Place (Salon A and B)
35 22nd Street East 

Public consultation will be ongoing throughout the Growing Forward! process.  This event is the first of many opportunities for the public to get involved in this exciting initiative.  

Event materials and information will also be available online at www.growingfwd.ca on the day of the event, along with an opportunity to submit comments.  You can also join the discussion on Twitter as we live-tweet the event – just follow us on Twitter or use the hashtag #yxegrowingfwd.  

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.

Due to the cold extreme weather conditions, the city is experiencing a significant number of water main breaks. We apologize for the inconvenience and thank everyone for their patience while we work to restore water service as quickly as possible in the following locations:

• 7^th Street East (water trailer available)
• Tait Crescent (water trailer available)
• Witney Avenue South (water trailer available)
• Phillips Crescent
• Appleby Place
• Louise Avenue

The City of Saskatoon’s water trailers are provided in the order of incidents reported.  Water trailers are currently located on the first 3 streets listed above, and the forth trailer is in transit. 

We make every effort to make a water trailer available within 8 hours of the water being shut off.  However, with the number of water main breaks we are currently experiencing, affected areas may anticipate this time to extend to approximately 12 hours.

We have brought in all available staff to repair the water main breaks as quickly as possible.

Due to the cold extreme weather conditions, the city is experiencing a significant number of water main breaks. City crews were able to restore water to some locations earlier today.  

We apologize for the inconvenience and thank everyone for their patience while we work to restore water service as quickly as possible in the following locations:

• 7^th Street East (water trailer available)
• Tait Crescent (water trailer available)
• Phillips Crescent (water trailer available)
• Louise Avenue (water trailer available on corner of Main Street)

The City of Saskatoon’s water trailers are provided in the order of incidents reported. 

We make every effort to make a water trailer available within 8 hours of the water being shut off.  However, with the number of water main breaks we are currently experiencing, affected areas may have experienced a longer wait..  

We have brought in all available staff to repair the water main breaks as quickly as possible and additional crews will be working Monday, February 24.              

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.

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The City is proposing a city-wide multi-unit residential recycling program, which if approved by Council will start in late 2014.

A report submitted to the February 24, 2014 Public Executive Committee meeting includes a recommendation for a cost of $2.50 per unit per month for the proposed city-wide multi-unit recycling program.  Results from recent public consultations and the independent review of the Cosmopolitan Industries business plan for the program are also included in the report. 

“We heard loud and clear from our stakeholders that we needed to keep the cost as low as possible, and we managed to determine a funding structure that would allow us to do just that,” says Jeff Jorgenson, General Manager of the Transportation & Utilities Division. “We believe this rate structure is reasonable and reflects the market value of the service to be provided.”

Between September 30 and October 18, 2013, the City received feedback from 192 stakeholders. And while price was a concern for many, very few were opposed to the overall concept of a recycling requirement for multi-unit residential buildings.

“We recognize that there is no single solution for recycling in multi-unit properties and to achieve success towards the City’s recycling goals, the program will require a high degree of customization,” says Jorgenson.  “But our focus has always been on providing a service that is convenient for residents by allowing that all recyclable materials can be placed in the same cart.”

The City chose to pursue the contract with Cosmopolitan Industries in an effort to allow the organization to continue to provide meaningful employment and vocational opportunities for participants in their programs.

If Executive Committee accepts the report, it will be presented to City Council at its meeting on March 3, 2014 for final approval. 

Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, or our City Blog. Click on the links at www.saskatoon.ca.

Starting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 20, the Idylwyld Drive northbound curb lane will be closed between 71st Street and the point where Highway 11 and 12 divides.

The work should be completed and restrictions lifted later that same morning, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.   

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Find up-to-date traffic detour information at www.saskatoon.ca/go/traffic and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

 

Starting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 20, a portion of the 8th Street westbound curb lane between Acadia Drive and Circle Drive will be closed while contractor crews work adjacent to the road. 

The work should be completed and restrictions lifted later that same afternoon, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.   

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Find up-to-date traffic detour information at www.saskatoon.ca/go/traffic and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

 

On Wednesday, February 19 starting at 9:00 a.m., traffic on 22nd Street eastbound between Avenues J and K will be closed in the eastbound curb lane. The lane closure is required for emergency water main repairs.

The work should be completed and restrictions lifted later that same afternoon, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.   

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Find up-to-date traffic detour information at www.saskatoon.ca/go/traffic and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

In honour of Family Day, the City of Saskatoon’s (City) Recreation & Sport Division is pleased to launch Family Fun Packs, a limited time promotion, designed especially for families!

Family Fun Packs provide unbeatable savings on admissions to the City’s most popular family attractions, including:

• three family passes to any indoor Leisure Centre;
• two family passes to a public skating session; 
• one family pass to the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo; and
• three family passes to any outdoor pool.

Starting Monday, February 17, Family Fun Packs will be available for sale at any of the six indoor Leisure Centres for the discounted price of $100 plus GST ($137 value).  Don’t miss out!  Family Fun Packs are only available until March 16, 2014, while supplies last.

Families can also take advantage of Recreation & Sport’s great year-round admission options and save money by purchasing Family Bulk Tickets, Family LeisureCards, or the new 2-Week Family Trial Passes. 

Visit Drop-in Online 24/7 at www.saskatoon.ca/go/dropinonline for up-to-date facility schedules and BONUS swim, gym, and skate times during February Break.
 
For more information on Family Fun Packs and more, please visit www.saskatoon.ca/go/leisure.

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.

Starting at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, February 14, 2014, Warman Road southbound lanes will be closed between 7th Avenue to 33rd Street for an emergency water main repair. Motorists are advised to use 7th Avenue to 33rd Street for the detour.

All restrictions are expected to be lifted by Sunday evening, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.  The City would like to thank everyone for their patience.

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Find up-to-date traffic detour information at www.saskatoon.ca/go/traffic  and follow us on Twitter and Facebook

Broadway Avenue southbound lanes between 11th Street and Main Street are closed until later this afternoon for a water and sewer repair. Broadway Avenue northbound traffic is not affected. Motorists please use Eastlake Avenue as a detour.

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Find up-to-date traffic detour information at www.saskatoon.ca/go/traffic and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Starting at 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 13, 2014, the 2nd Avenue northbound lane approaching 26th Street will be restricted to one lane as crews setup a crane. Two-way traffic at the work zone will be accommodated in the 2nd Avenue southbound lanes.

The work should be completed and restrictions lifted by 3:00 p.m., weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances. The City thanks everyone for their patience.

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Find up-to-date traffic detour information at www.saskatoon.ca/go/traffic and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Environment Canada has forecast strong wind and up to ten centimetres (four inches) of snow for Saskatoon today.  The City has extra staff, contractors and equipment ready to keep the priority streets clear, sanded/salted during – and following – the snow event.  

As a result, streets scheduled for snow grading to remove ruts today will be rescheduled.  The program to remove ruts and reduce the packed snow that can cause severe ruts has been ongoing for several weeks.   You may find a new schedule at www.saskatoon.ca/go/snow once crews can complete the Priority 1, 2 and 3 streets. 

Streets may become icy, due to heavy winds blowing snow across the roadway. City crews will be doing their best to keep them sanded/salted, so please watch for equipment on the road.  The large machines used are equipped with flashing amber lights, move slowly in teams of two or more and can be found on the road at any time of day or night.  By keeping a safe distance from the equipment and approaching slowly, we can all be safe on the road. 

Throughout the snow event, Snow & Ice Update PSAs are issued to local news media and posted on the City’s website by 6:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., ending 72 hours after the snow stops.  The Snow Clearing Interactive Map is updated at the same time showing the status of snow grading on the priority streets after a snow event.  Sanding/salting and grading occurs based on the following Priority System*:

Priority 1 (Highest traffic streets) will be plowed within 12 hours after a snowstorm ends.

Priority 2 (Rapid transit bus routes and busy streets) will be graded within 36 hours.

Priority 3 (Main streets and school zones) will be graded within 72 hours.

*Another snowfall or blowing snow within the 72-hour timeframe may require crews to return to Priority 1 streets, causing clearing to take longer.

SIDEWALKS:
We all want to be able to safely use the sidewalk.  If we all do our part and clear sidewalks in front of residents and commercial areas, we can help improve public safety.  Please do not place cleared snow onto the road because it can cause safety issues for pedestrians and drivers, and can be an issue for drainage during melt.

If your neighbour is elderly or has health or mobility restrictions, be a Snow Angel and clear their sidewalk after a snowfall. If you receive help from a neighbour, use the online form to nominate them as a “Snow Angel”. Once nominated, we’ll send your Snow Angel a thank you and enter them in a prize draw. 

Click on www.saskatoon.ca/go/snow to learn about the City’s Snow & Ice program. 

The City of Saskatoon (City) is pleased to announce that it will be hosting free activities for youth and families during the February break.  Get out and get active with the City and join us at these upcoming events and programs:

Family Day Skate
A Free Family Day Skate will be offered on Monday, February 17,  from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Clarence Downey Speed Skating Oval (11th Street and Avenue R South in the Gordon Howe Complex), and at Cosmo Civic Center (3130 Laurier Drive).

There are vending machines, change rooms, and public washrooms for your convenience at both locations.  You do not need speed skates to enjoy skating at the Oval; however, bring your own skates and safety gear as rentals are not available.

Please note if the temperature reaches -25˚C or below with the windchill, the outdoor event will be cancelled and all participants should go to the indoor skate at Cosmo Civic Centre.

If you prefer to stay warm inside, there will also be free activities in the Cosmo Civic Centre gym with games, arts, and crafts available from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Break-Away Sports Camp
A sports camp that provides youth ages 10 to 14 the opportunity to try new sports in a non-competitive environment.  Two days to choose from:

February 18 - Wrestling
Cosmo Civic Centre (3130 Laurier Drive)
Girls only:  9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Co-ed:  1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

February 19 - Basketball
Cosmo Civic Centre (3130 Laurier Drive)
Girls only:  9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Co-ed:  1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

To register, please call Community Development at 306-975-3378.

Art Ventures
An exciting morning or afternoon packed full of artistic activities for ages 10 to 16, in partnership with SCYAP.

February  20
Cosmo Civic Centre (3130 Laurier Drive)
9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. or 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

To register, please call Community Development at 306-975-3378.

Learn to Skate Program
Drop in to a free skating program at location near you, no experience is necessary! Participants must bring their own skates and CSA-approved winter helmets.
Please note, children under the age of six must be accompanied by an adult or responsible care giver.

February 22, March 1, 8, 15:
Achs Park
102 Elm Street – 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

St. George School
748 Redberry Road - 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
 
Holliston School
3rd Street East - 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
 
King George School
721 Avenue K South - 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

February 23, March 2, 9, 16:
Briarwood Pond
509 Braeside View - 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
(Park entrance located at Braeside and Braeburn Cres.)

Archibald McDonald Park
1001 Northumberland Avenue - 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

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.

For Immediate Rlease:  February 11, 2014

The following are the hours of civic services and facilities for Family Day on Monday, February 17, 2014:

City Hall will be closed.

Parking meters will not require payment.  Motorists are required to move their vehicles within the time period shown on parking meters, allowing for a constant turnover of parking availability.

Municipal Impound Lot will not be releasing vehicles to the public.

Saskatoon Landfill will be open with regular winter hours of 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Garbage and recycling collection will take place as scheduled.

All Saskatoon Public Library locations will be closed.  Please note that all Library locations are now open on Sundays until May 18, 2014.

Mendel Art Gallery and Saskatoon Civic Conservatory will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.  Admission is free.

TRANSIT SERVICES

Saskatoon Transit will operate with regular Sunday/Holiday Service.

Access Transit will operate with regular Holiday Service from 8:15 a.m. to 11:45 p.m.  Trips must be booked in advance as per normal procedures.  Customers are reminded that subscriptions do not apply on Statutory Holidays.

Transit Customer Service Center will be closed.

Transit Customer Service phone lines will be available from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Recreation & Sport

Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo: Open during regular hours.

Indoor Arenas: 
ACT Arena: Parent & Tot skating cancelled.  Bonus public skating from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Cosmo Arena: Parent & Tot skating cancelled.  Free Family Day Skate event from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Clarence Downey Speed Skating Oval: Regular hours of operation.
Free Family Day Skate event from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Cosmo Civic Centre: FACILITY CLOSED February 17.

Fitness Circuit & Terry Fox Track (in the SaskTel Sports Centre): FACILITY CLOSED February 17.

Lakewood Civic Centre: Open 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

For modified Lane, Public Swim and Public Gym times visit Drop-in Online at www.saskatoon.ca/go/dropinonline.

All fitness classes and child minding CANCELLED.

Lawson Civic Centre: Open 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

For modified Lane, Parent & Tot and Public Swim times visit Drop-in Online at www.saskatoon.ca/go/dropinonline.

All fitness classes and swim lessons CANCELLED.

Saskatoon Field House: Open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Special holiday fitness class from 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

All fitness classes and child minding CANCELLED.

Shaw Centre: Open 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

For modified Lane, Public and Parent & Tot Swim times visit Drop-in Online at www.saskatoon.ca/go/dropinonline.

All fitness classes and child minding CANCELLED.

Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre:  Open 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

For modified Lane, Public and Parent & Tot Swim times visit Drop-in Online at  www.saskatoon.ca/go/dropinonline.

All fitness classes and swim lessons CANCELLED.

For more information on programs and operating hours on Family Day, Monday, February 17, 2014, please contact the Leisure Centres or facilities directly.

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.

For Release: February 10, 2014

“Fostering workplace diversity and inclusiveness is a must for our organization. We aim to successfully serve the evolving needs of Saskatoon’s diverse population as a 21^st century city,” City Manager Murray Totland says.

“We must attract and retain skilled employees so that we may continue to provide a high standard of customer service to our citizens. Our dedicated Diversity and Inclusion Strategy is always top of mind; it supports the City’s goal of creating a workforce that is diverse, inclusive and importantly, representative of our growing community,” Totland says.

Canada’s Best Diversity Employers for 2014 is a national competition that evaluates organizations on both qualitative and quantitative, external and internal data and initiatives, as well as leadership on inclusion and diversity practices. In addition, the City of Saskatoon was particularly recognized for its many community partnerships.

“Our emphasis on creating a diverse and inclusive workplace is what makes the City stand out as a great place to work.  Our goal is not just limited to attracting new employees, retention of a diverse workforce is also critical to our success,” Director of Human Resources Marno McInnes says.

“This year we will be making concerted efforts to engage with our Aboriginal employees to better understand what keeps them working for the City, along with developing new strategies to make sure we meet our employment equity goals,” McInnes says. “With rapid change in our City and the labour market so competitive, we must continue to reach out to our City’s growing newcomer and young Aboriginal communities for all the potential and new talent they have to offer.”

The City of Saskatoon is committed to the Strategic Goal of Continuous Improvement by creating and offering an inclusive workplace that embraces diverse backgrounds and building a workplace culture that champions innovation and forward-thinking.

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.

Starting at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 8, 2014, Broadway Avenue northbound lanes between Main Street and 10th Street will be closed for emergency watermain repairs.  Broadway Avenue southbound traffic will not be affected.  Motorists please use Clarence Avenue as a detour.

The work should be completed and restrictions lifted by late Saturday afternoon, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.  The City thanks everyone for their patience.

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Find up-to-date traffic detour information at www.saskatoon.ca/go/traffic and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

The City is currently investigating an appropriate Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) for Saskatoon. The AMI technology would allow the City to implement the use of smart meters which can measure and record actual power and water usage by time intervals throughout the day, and transmit that data wirelessly over a secure network to a central data management system.

In October 2013 a consultant was hired to determine the feasibility and cost of an AMI system for Saskatoon. Now the City is asking for feedback from residents through a series of public information sessions.

The Open House events will be held:

February 11, 2014 – 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm: Cliff Wright Branch Auditorium at Lakewood Civic Centre (1635 McKercher Drive)

February 12, 2014 – 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm: Mount Royal Collegiate Cafeteria (2220 Rusholme Road)

The following information will be provided at the Open House events:

• How Smart Meters Work
• Benefits of Smart Meters
• It’s Your Health (Information on Radio Frequency) – Health Canada
• The City’s Meter Exchange Program
• Meter Display – Old Versus New
• Smart Meter Billing
• Tips to Reduce Outdoor Water Use, Indoor Water Use and Electricity Use

Residents unable to attend the Open House events can also provide their feedback using the City’s new online engagement tool, Shaping Saskatoon, located at www.shapingsaskatoon.ca.

To sign up, click on the Shaping Saskatoon link on the City’s homepage, and enter your email address and demographic information. Residents can sign up from a home computer, or anywhere that’s convenient on a mobile device.

The Smart Meters project will be available for comment on Shaping Saskatoon starting today until the end of February.

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.

 
The City of Saskatoon is proposing to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the City of Martensville to negotiate an agreement to provide both water and  waste water services.

“This is a key step towards a regional planning approach for land use and servicing,” says Randy Grauer, Community Services Department General Manager.  “It’ll also help the City of Martensville to continue playing an important role in the growth and development of the Saskatoon Region.”

A report to City Council will be on its Agenda, which will be public information later this afternoon.

Martensville will soon reach its lagoon capacity and it approached the City to consider allowing a connection to Saskatoon’s existing Waste Water Treatment Plant.

“Basically, it’s an agreement to agree,” Grauer says and it sets out the regional planning goals of the City and Martensville, as well as creating an outline for a more detailed formal agreement on water and waste water services.

The MOU would be in effect until the City of Martensville reaches 20,000 people at which point it would be renegotiated.

“Saskatoon residents will not be subsidising those in Martensville,” Grauer says.  “We’re proposing the rates will be negotiated on the basis of Martensville customers paying a premium on top of what Saskatoon users pay.  The premium will be based on industry rate models and reviewed every three years.”

The cities would agree to work together on several points including:

• A regional plan including Martensville’s future land use plans.
• Explore tap water delivery opportunities
• A plan to fairly share the costs of developing new and upgrades to existing waste water and water infrastructure
• Cost estimates for sanitary sewer infrastructure including a lift station, a force main, an odour abatement structure, and a gravity pipe.

“The City is aware of odours near the Waste Water Treatment Plant.  Construction of a new odour abatement system is in the works and connecting Martensville would help pay for that project,” Grauer says.

City Council will consider the Administration report at its meeting, Monday, February 10, 2014.

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.

The City of Saskatoon (City) has once again been awarded as one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2014!  This achievement is highlighted in a magazine supplement in today’s Saskatoon StarPhoenix and the Regina Leader-Post.

The City applied for the competition last year and the winners were selected according to a number of factors including: physical workplace, workplace atmosphere, benefits, vacation and time off, employee communications, performance management, training and skills development, and community involvement.

“While I am proud of our past accomplishments, I am very excited about our future.  We have a new vision for our great city and a strategy and workforce plan on how we will achieve this vision,” City Manager Murray Totland says. “Our staff is well prepared to face the changes of our rapidly growing community.  Without their dedication and hard work, we would not be a top employer.”

To again be recognized as one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2014 is a welcomed achievement for the City.  The City continues to promote forward-thinking and the use of innovative ways to increase employee satisfaction and engagement levels, all part of dedication to its corporate Strategic Goal of building a culture of continuous improvement.

The City of Saskatoon employs over 4,000 people and offers a broad range of career opportunities, a workplace that prides itself as an employer where employees can “Build a Career – and Shape a City.”

“This is our third year of recognition as one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers.  I am proud to say the City has built a reputation as a great place to work and build a career,” Employment & Total Compensation Manager Mubarka Butt says.  “We were pleased this year to include our employee testimonials and their career paths at the City as part of our application,” Butt says.  “You know you are doing something right as an employer when your employees want to tell others about why they love working for the City!”

“To continue to build a stimulating and supportive work environment for our employees, we have aligned our workplace structure to enhance employee engagement.  This will ensure we have the absolute best chance to be successful in meeting our corporate Strategic Goals,” Butt says.

“The City is excelling in many areas because of our employees and the positive attitude they bring to work every day.  Our employees continue to make Saskatoon an even greater place to live – a 21^st Century City and a real ‘can do’ organization we can all be proud of,” Totland says.

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.

 

The City of Saskatoon is pleased to announce the launch of the Growing Forward! Shaping Saskatoon website at www.growingfwd.ca. 

“Growing Forward! is an exciting initiative that will take us from vision to action - on how we grow to half a million people,” says Alan Wallace, Director of Planning and Development.  “The Growing Forward! website is mobile-friendly and is the first step to providing ample opportunities for people to have their say about their future.”

Change is inevitable and how the City manages that change is important.  Growing Forward!  Shaping Saskatoon is a wide-reaching public planning exercise.  It will help guide civic investments to accommodate Saskatoon’s growth to half a million people within the next 30 to 40 years. 

“The input we get from the website will be incorporated into the City’s Growth Plan to Half a Million,” Wallace says.  “We hope this framework will allow us to make changes in our community in a way that will keep Saskatoon a prosperous and great place to live for all citizens.”

Growing Forward! will build on a strong foundation of past achievements and public input.  It will look at ways to improve how we move around Saskatoon while making sure growth within the City remains sustainable.  This project will address three key elements:

• Shaping Growth;
• Shaping Transit; and
• Shaping Bridges.

A public event will be held on Tuesday, February 25, 2014, at TCU Place to start the discussion about future options for transit, bridges, and how to shape Saskatoon’s growth to half a million people.

For more information on Growing Forward! Shaping Saskatoon, please visit www.growingfwd.ca.

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.

"CONTINUING STRONG ECONOMY”: ‘AAA’/STABLE CREDIT RATING AGAIN

For another year, the City of Saskatoon has earned the highest possible rating from international bond rating agency, Standard & Poor’s; S&P today reaffirmed its ‘AAA’/stable credit rating for Saskatoon - one of the hottest Canadian economies.

“Standard and Poor’s assessment again sends the message that the City’s budget process and resource allocation is open, accountable and transparent, and that Saskatoon has an economy that will keep our growth on track,” says His Worship Mayor Donald Atchison.

Every year Standard & Poor’s reviews the City’s finances and delivers the credit rating and supporting rationale in a report based on that study.

“This is exactly what we work toward every day,” says Acting Chief Financial Officer Kerry Tarasoff. “Saskatoon continues to be headed into healthy economic times, and S&P’s rating underlines that position.”

As it did last year, Standard & Poor’s continues to view the financial outlook for Saskatoon as stable. The agency is confident that cash flow and cash investments will increase to offset any rising debt. In other words, Saskatoon’s leading economy is expected to keep growing.

“Saskatoon's economic fundamentals are very strong, in our view” the report says. “We think Saskatoon is managing its growth well, and we expect this will continue.”

The City of Saskatoon demonstrates strong and prudent financial policies and solid management, and these have a positive impact on the credit profile. The City has received the ‘AAA’/stable credit rating every year for more than a decade.

Receiving a ‘AAA’ credit rating essentially means that the City of Saskatoon can borrow money at lower rates, and is viewed by financial institutions as having virtually no-risk with respect to defaulting on credit. The City of Saskatoon’s favorable budget performance, as well as its self-generated revenues, continue to place the City in a strong and stable financial position, supporting the City’s Strategic Goal of Asset and Financial Sustainability.

 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.

Beginning at 8:30 a.m. on January 22, Cumberland Avenue South between Taylor Street and 1st Street will be closed while crews replace a sewer connection.  Drivers are encouraged to use Louise Street.

The roadway is expected to reopen by 6:00 p.m., weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.  The City thanks everyone for their patience. 

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Find up-to-date traffic detour information at www.saskatoon.ca/go/traffic and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.