Upcoming Council and Committee of the Whole Meeting Dates
City of Martensville Council Meetings and Committee of the Whole Meetings are open to the public and we invite you to attend in person or virtually to see what is happening in our community.
February 17 – Regular Council Meeting
March 3 – Regular Council Meeting
March 10 – Committee of the Whole Meeting
Location: Martensville City Hall Council Chambers, 37 Centennial Drive
Time: All meetings begin at 5 pm
If you’d like to speak or present at a meeting, make sure you’re on the agenda by contacting the City Clerk’s office. If you’d prefer to join from the comfort of your home, contact the City Clerk or check the online agenda at martensville.ca for the meeting link.
Snow and Ice Management Update – Unseasonal Melt
With recent unseasonal warm temperatures followed by below-zero conditions, many residential streets have developed deep ruts, water pooling, and localized drainage challenges. These rapidly changing conditions can create mobility issues and, as temperatures drop, are expected to worsen as surfaces refreeze.
In response, the City has mobilized all available equipment, operating on extended hours to improve road access and address priority flooding and drainage concerns. Crews have been working to clear water and ice accumulation and managing culverts, swales, and other key drainage points.
The City’s current focus is on maintaining access, which may result in some snow being stockpiled on roadways and small windrows being unavoidable. Residents are asked to give operators space while equipment is operating and to drive with caution by reducing speeds and following winter driving practices. Specific concerns can be submitted through the City’s online Request for Service system to support efficient triage and response.
Council Reviews Development Policy and Future Growth Plans
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Martensville City Council met for the first time this month on February 10th, after the February 3rd Council meeting was cancelled. The meeting saw discussions regarding future growth, policy review and various municipal services, both on a local and provincial level.
Council received a report seeking feedback on the City’s Development Incentive Policy, which was originally approved in 2019 and later revised in 2020 to encourage the creation of serviced residential and commercial lots within the community. Administration noted that the policy has resulted in $621,158 in approved tax abatements between 2020 and 2025, with the highest annual total occurring in 2024 at $195,096. In 2025, there was $56,425 in abatements.
The review was brought forward to determine whether the policy remains relevant and effective in supporting land development. Administration indicated that, if Council determines the policy should continue, revisions may be drafted to incorporate previous feedback, including clearer application procedures and the addition of deadlines to improve consistency in the evaluation process.
Council also received an update regarding a proposed annexation along Centennial Drive South. The annexation concept was revised from an earlier proposal that included a larger quarter section of land south of Main Street, which administration indicated is not required to be within city limits at this time despite being located within the South East Sector planning area.
The updated proposal focuses on Crown-owned parcels identified as C, D, R, and S. Parcels R and S are intended for potential future road widening, while parcels C and D may support future development. Following Council approval, the annexation process will require a complementary resolution from the RM of Corman Park, as well as a future public meeting before the parcels can formally be incorporated into city limits.
A proposed subdivision within the Meadows Business Park was also presented, which would create eight additional light industrial and service commercial lots along 8th Street South. Administration noted that the lands have already been graded and are prepared for servicing, with municipal water and sanitary sewer connections planned to extend from Phase I of the business park. The report indicated that the subdivision carries no direct financial implications for the City and aligns with strategic priorities related to preparing infrastructure for future growth.
Council also discussed several resolutions being brought forward by the City of Warman to the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) annual convention in April. The resolutions focus on advocating for changes at the provincial level, including establishing compensation mechanisms for municipal fire departments responding to medical emergencies and creating a formal funding model for fire services similar to existing police funding programs.
Additional resolutions call for the province to take responsibility for establishing provincial ridesharing agreements to improve transportation access across municipalities, as well as a review and amendment of the Saskatchewan Ambulance Act. The proposed amendments aim to modernize legislation governing ambulance licensing and service districts in order to improve efficiency and access to emergency medical services.
Upcoming Events
City Events
FEB 12 | Storytime at the Library – Valentine’s Theme
FEB 12 | Community Art Night – Library
FEB 12 | Pickleball Drop-in – Holy Mary School
FEB 13 | Family Night Out – Lake Vista School
FEB 13 | Wiggles & Giggles – Library
FEB 15 | Public Skating – Sports
FEB 16 | Winter FunFest – MAP
FEB 17 | Parent & Tot Skating – Free Drop-in
FEB 17-20 | Multi-Sport Sampler – MAP & Heritage Centre
FEB 17-21 | Winter I Spy – Library
FEB 18 | Crafternoon at the Library
Community Events
FEB 13-15 | Curling Stadium Men’s International Event - Curling Club
FEB 14-15 | Bongo Adult Volleyball Event – MAP
FEB 17 | Martensville Chiefs vs. Prince Albert Timberjaks – Sports Centre
Ice Thickness and Safety
Martensville Fire Department (MFD) completed on February 6 with the following results:
• North Ridge Pond (MRF 33): 20 inches
• Kinsmen Pond: 20 inches
Lake Vista (MU5): 18 inches
• 10th Avenue Pond (MR29): 20 inches
• Dog Park Area (MR37): 22 inches
As always, with warming temperatures, residents are reminded to exercise caution. Heavy runoff from melting snow can change ice conditions quickly and without warning.
Winter FunFest is Back | Monday, Feb. 16th | 1:00pm – 5:00pm
Winter FunFest is a fun-filled Family Day event at the MAP, with activities for all ages! Activities include Bouncy castles, sleigh rides, face painting, hot dog roast, air-brush tattoos and ice and soap carving. Thanks to our Title Sponsors: North Prairie Developments & Canwest!
Council also reviewed the structure and purpose of existing committees of council, including internal committees such as Beautification, Accessibility Advisory, Naming, Police Advisory, and Truth and Reconciliation, as well as external committees focused on regional collaboration and economic development. The discussion focused on ensuring committees maintain clear mandates and continue to provide value aligned with Council’s strategic priorities.
The items were received as part of ongoing planning and policy discussions supporting Martensville’s continued growth and service delivery.
Council will meet again on Tuesday, February 17 at 5pm in Council Chambers at City Hall. More information on Council, a schedule of meetings, and agendas can be found at Martensville.ca.
ABOVE: Crown-owned parcels along Centennial Drive South are being considered for annexation to support future growth and infrastructure planning.
Martensville Voyage Club Hosting Childcare Night Fundraiser for 2027 European Trip
The Martensville Voyage Club is inviting local families to enjoy an evening out while supporting students working toward the opportunity of a lifetime.
The group is hosting a childcare night at Martensville High School as a fundraiser for their upcoming trip to France, Belgium, and Germany in 2027. The event will give parents and guardians an opportunity to enjoy a few hours to themselves while children take part in supervised activities in a safe and fun environment.
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
The idea for the fundraiser was inspired by a similar initiative organized by Girl Guides in Saskatoon, which proved to be successful. The concept was later presented to the Voyage Club, with six students participating in the upcoming trip volunteering to help run the childcare evening.
The event will run from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with activities planned to keep children entertained throughout the evening, including colouring, games, and parachute activities. The childcare night is open to children ages two and up who are potty trained, and adults will be present throughout the event to supervise activities.
The cost is $20 per child, with all proceeds going directly toward helping participating students offset travel expenses associated with the international trip.
Funds raised during the event will be divided among the students who volunteered their time, helping reduce individual trip costs. Fundraising efforts like this often make opportunities such as international travel possible for students who might not otherwise be able to participate.
Spaces for the childcare night are limited, and families are encouraged to reserve a spot in advance. For more information or to register, contact apitka@live.com.
Winter FunFest Brings Family Day Fun Back to Martensville
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Martensville’s annual Winter FunFest is set to return on Monday, February 16th, offering an afternoon of familyfriendly winter activities at the Martensville Athletic Pavilion (MAP).
ABOVE:
Running from 1:00pm to 5:00pm, the event is designed to give residents of all ages an opportunity to get outdoors, stay active, and enjoy Family Day close to home. Over the years, Winter FunFest has grown into a popular community tradition, bringing families together through a mix of indoor and outdoor activities that encourage connection, play, and community spirit during the winter season.
“Our main goal each year is to provide a big mix of both outdoor and indoor activities,” said Jamie McCulloch, City of Martensville Recreation Program Coordinator II. “This year, to make sure we can offer fun for all ages, was to move it to the MAP so we can have open gyms available for everyone to play sports.”
This year’s event will include sleigh rides, hot chocolate, hot dog roasting, bounce houses, airbrush tattoos, soap carving, schlocky, and a variety of sports activities inside the facility, including basketball, pickleball, volleyball, and toddler play areas. The combination of activities allows families to drop in for a short visit or spend the entire afternoon enjoying the festivities together.
Attendance has remained strong over the years, with organizers typically welcoming between 200 and 300 attendees throughout the afternoon.
According to McCulloch, the feedback from families has remained consistent. “Most have a great time and use the event to play together as a family and have some fun,” she said.
Events like Winter FunFest also serve an important role in helping bring residents together during the colder months, offering a welcoming space for families looking for something to do on the holiday.
“It provides a place for families to go on Family Day who do not have any plans for the day off,” McCulloch added.
The 2026 Winter FunFest is made possible through the support of Community Champions North Prairie Developments and CANWEST, whose contributions help ensure the annual celebration continues to grow.
McCulloch encourages residents to take part and enjoy the afternoon. “Come on out for a fun afternoon at the MAP with your family and friends,” she added.
Admission is $5 per person or $15 per family. Attendees are encouraged to dress for the weather and come prepared to enjoy a full afternoon of winter fun.
Transportation available to French Immersion in Warman
Transportation from Martensville to Warman schools for K - Grade 9 French Immersion will be available for the 2026/27 school year!
Warman High School will offer Grade 9 French Immersion, starting fall 2026! The high school program will expand by one grade each year.
Winter Funfest will take place on February 16th and has a wide variety of activities planned for all ages.
Alpyne Apparel Makes Exciting New Changes to Their Business
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
Since 2019, Alpyne Apparel has been a popular custom clothing store located on Centennial Drive North in Martensville.
After seven years at their current location, the company is expanding its custom clothing warehouse to Meadows Business Park, located across from the Scrub Car Wash in Martensville.
The facility will operate under the new business name, Justa Custom Products, previously managed at the rear of the Alpyne Apparel store. The Alpyne Apparel clothing brand will transition back to an online-only platform.
The new premises will serve solely as a warehouse without a traditional storefront. Instead, customers can conveniently collect their custom orders any time via a 24/7 parcel locker pick-up room. Additionally, the company has acquired a delivery van to enhance service efficiency.
“We have big plans for 2026 and look forward to settling into our new location. As always, we want to extend a huge thank you to Martensville, Warman and surrounding area for all the continued support over the years – we wouldn’t be where we are without you,” co-owner Courthney Flath stated. “We are excited to have the opportunity to expand our services and offer more to our community. We invite you to check out our Instagram page @justa. customproducts to view the work we do for local sports teams and businesses,” Flath added.
For further information or bulk custom clothing order inquiries, please contact Justacustomproducts@gmail.com.
ABOVE : One of the many custom made toques made by Alpyne Apparel/Justa Custom Products.
BELOW: The new warehouse where Justa Custom Products will operate.
City Crews Continue Ice Rut Removal Efforts on Residential Streets
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
City crews in Martensville have been putting in extra hours recently to address challenging winter road conditions, with efforts focused on shaving down ice ruts and improving access throughout residential neighbourhoods.
According to the City, all available equipment was deployed as operators worked to open and maintain travel lanes while responding to priority concerns. Operations took place throughout the weekend as crews moved through areas within the community and worked to maintain safe access across the community.
Residents may notice snow being temporarily stockpiled along roadways as part of the process, as crews focus on restoring drivable lanes and improving overall road conditions.
Drivers are reminded to give snow removal equipment adequate space to operate and to watch for blue and amber flashing lights while adjusting driving to winter conditions.
Residents looking for updates or wishing to submit a Request for Service can do so through the City’s website at Martensville.ca.
The City thanked residents for their patience and cooperation as crews continue working to improve road conditions across the community.
POLICE BEAT
RCMP Note Homicide Investigations Remain Elevated Across Saskatchewan in 2025
Following the highest number of homicide files on record in Saskatchewan RCMP jurisdiction in 2024, investigators continued to face a high volume of cases across the province in 2025.
Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes Branch investigated 33 manslaughter and murder files with 39 victims in 2025, compared to 41 files with 43 victims in 2024.
Of those files, 31 manslaughter and murder files, with 34 victims, occurred in Saskatchewan RCMP jurisdiction. RCMP teams also investigated two murders, with five victims, in File Hills First Nations Police Service (FHFNPS) jurisdiction.
Over the last five years, Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes Branch conducted the following investigations in Saskatchewan RCMP jurisdiction:
- 2021: 31 homicide files with 36 victims
- 2022: 33 homicide files with 43 victims (including all victims of the mass casualty)
- 2023: 31 homicide files with 31 victims
- 2024: 39 homicide files with 41 victims
- 2025: 31 homicide files with 34 victims
- January 1 to February 4, 2026: one homicide file with one victim
“While 2024 marked the highest number of homicide files we’ve investigated, the volume in 2025 remained elevated,” says Superintendent Josh Graham, officer in charge of Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes Branch. “The work doesn’t stop for our teams, homicide files in our jurisdiction are at a rate that requires significant investigative capacity.”
The Saskatchewan RCMP’s Homicide Investigation Unit (HIU), part of the Major Crimes Branch, is responsible for investigating murders, manslaughters, and homicides within RCMP jurisdiction. HIU investigators also routinely support frontline RCMP officers at detachments by consulting on sudden or suspicious death investigations. These investigations are not just statistics, each one represents a loss felt in the community.
“Behind every homicide statistic is a person who has been taken from their loved ones, and a family living through an unimaginable loss,” says Supt. Graham. “Our investigators are always mindful that their job is to uncover the truth, give a voice to victims, provide answers to families. The cases we take on aren’t easy, they stay with our officers, but our teams remain committed to investigating with professionalism and compassion.”
Of the victims in files investigated by the Saskatchewan RCMP in 2025: - three were children age 12 and under, - three were teenagers between the ages of 13 and 19, - 12 were young people in their 20s, - 10 were in their 30s, - six were in their 40s, - four were in their 50s, - and one person was in their 60s.
Five victims (13 per cent) were in Saskatchewan RCMP’s South District, 11 victims were in Central District, and 18 were in North District. There were also five victims (13 per cent) reported in FHFNPS jurisdiction.
In addition to investigating the homicides that occurred in 2025, investigators continued work on at least 30 unsolved homicide or suspicious death files from previous years.
28 charged in relation to 2025 homicide investigations - Through perseverance and dedication, investigators continued to bring complex cases to charge. The HIU laid charges against 28 individuals in relation to 2025’s homicide investigations. Teams laid seven firstdegree murder charges, 17 second-degree murder charges, and four manslaughter charges. Of the 28 individuals charged:
- 25 are male (89 per cent) and three are female (11 per cent),
- eight were youth between the ages of 13 and 19 (30 per cent),
- nine were in their 20s (33 per cent),
- two were in their 30s,
- five were in their 40s,
- two were in their 50s,
- and two were in their 60s.
Investigators solved 23 of 2025’s 33 homicide files, with 10 remaining under investigation. Of the cases that were brought to charge:
- 12 were solved within 24 hours,
- six were solved within one week,
- three were solved within one month,
- and two were solved in less than six months.
Operational insights - Homicide, murder and manslaughter investigations require quick coordination and extensive teamwork, with urgent files requiring an immediate response and often a sustained investigative effort.
In 2025, there were several incidents that underscored the unpredictable nature of these investigations and the significant caseload managed by Saskatchewan RCMP investigators:
- Two manslaughter/murder files occurred on the same day in separate communities on three different occasions.
- There were 11 manslaughter/murder files with 14 victims in the last two months of 2025. These included single, double and triple homicides.
o Three of these files, with five victims, occurred over the course of approximately 27 hours in November.
“In a calendar year, our investigators responded to single, double and triple homicides, and a quadruple murder scene. This shows just how unpredictable and complex our work is,” says Supt. Graham.
“Periods of intense investigative activity test every part of our system. Our teams’ demands escalate immediately. In November, our HIU leaned on the Serious Crimes Unit, another experienced unit in the Major Crimes Branch, to assist with an investigation. Despite the pressures, our teams remain focused on the important role these investigations play in public safety and ensuring every victim and family receives the thorough investigation they deserve.”
The HIU investigators, operating out of Regina and Saskatoon, provide a 24/7 response to homicides and suspicious deaths across Saskatchewan. Their work spanned the entire province in 2025 – from Weyburn to Wollaston Lake and from Pelican Narrows to Swift Current. Investigators deployed to more than 30 communities for 2025 homicides. Because these investigations involve significant – and sometimes lengthy – travel, investigators work closely with frontline detachment officers to ensure coordinated and timely responses.
Teams can be on the road – or in the sky – at all hours, with some calls requiring them to reach remote northern communities by plane, such as Wollaston Lake, a community more than 800 kilometres from Saskatoon.
“Behind every file are broad and evolving challenges that our investigators navigate every day. Much of this complex work happens out of view from the public,” says Supt. Graham. “We know the demands won’t stop in 2026. As we continue investigating unsolved files and managing any new cases, we’ll remain focused and committed to serving communities across Saskatchewan.”
Sixteen New Addictions Treatment Spaces Open in Regina
The Government of Saskatchewan is providing more access to addictions services by funding 16 new second-stage sober living treatment spaces in Regina.
The $863,000 in annual funding to Pine Lodge Addiction Recovery supports sober living treatment provided to adults in a supportive, substance-free environment. It aligns with the Government of Saskatchewan's Action Plan for Mental Health and Addictions commitment to provide 500 treatment spaces by 2028.
"Sober living treatment is an important part of addictions recovery," Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr said. "These new spaces will enable more individuals struggling with addictions to access the care they need and to live healthier, safer lives in recovery."
Sober living spaces are for people who have completed initial treatment and are continuing their recovery journey. Treatment focuses on preventing relapse through counselling and connection to community and culture.
"The addition of 16 new post-treatment beds expands program capacity and supports a smoother transition for participants moving from intensive treatment into stable, recovery-focused housing," Pine Lodge Executive Director Andrew Love said. "This expansion places a strong emphasis on structured day programming and vocational opportunities. By increasing capacity, the program strengthens continuity of care and provides staff with greater flexibility to deliver individualized supports, relapseprevention services, and planning for successful reintegration into the community."
The additional sober living spaces are located at two homes separate from the main Pine Lodge facility. Services are available to all Saskatchewan residents.
Pine Lodge was selected after a Request for Service for second-stage sober living spaces was issued to pre-qualified suppliers of a competitive Request for Supplier Qualifications (RFSQ). The RFSQ was initiated by the Ministry of Health, the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) and SaskBuilds and Procurement seeking addictions treatment services. The agreement to provide service is between the SHA and Pine Lodge.
"The Saskatchewan Health Authority is pleased to continue its partnership with Pine Lodge," Saskatchewan Health Authority, Provincial Mental Health and Addictions Services, Executive Director Zoe Teed McKay said. "Post-treatment housing plays a critical role in helping people safely transition back into their communities while building the supports and skills needed for long-term recovery."
Intake for 10 second-stage sober living spaces started February 1, while intake for the remaining six spaces will begin in March.
To date, 297 of the 500 new spaces under Saskatchewan's Action Plan for Mental Health and Addictions are now available to Saskatchewan residents. This includes:
• 16 second-stage sober living spaces at Pine Lodge in Regina;
• 17 inpatient spaces at the Carter House Family Treatment Centre in Saskatoon;
• 40 mobile withdrawal management spaces with Medavie in Saskatoon;
• 60 inpatient spaces at Willowview Recovery Centre in Lumsden;
• 15 inpatient treatment spaces at Muskwa Lake Wellness Camp;
• 15 withdrawal management spaces at Onion Lake Cree Nation;
• 15 inpatient and five (5) withdrawal management spaces at Thorpe Recovery Centre near Lloydminster;
• 26 post-treatment spaces at St. Joseph's Addiction Recovery Centre in Estevan;
• 32 intensive out-patient treatment spaces through Possibilities Recovery Center in Saskatoon;
• 14 inpatient addictions treatment spaces with Poundmaker's Lodge in North Battleford; and
• 42 virtual spaces through EHN Canada.
The 2025-26 Provincial Budget invests a record $623 million in mental health and addictions support and services. This is the largest investment in the province's history for mental health and addictions supports.
Saskatchewan Starts 2026 Strong with 15,000 Jobs Added
Saskatchewan Starts 2026 Strong with 15,000 Jobs Added
Statistics Canada's latest labour force numbers show that the labour market in Saskatchewan remains strong with the second lowest unemployment rate amongst provinces at 5.3 per cent, well below the national average of 6.5 per cent. 15,000 jobs were added year-over-year in January, an increase of 2.5 per cent, the second highest amongst provinces.
"Saskatchewan is starting 2026 off with 15,000 jobs added to our economy," Immigration and Career Training Minister Eric Schmalz said. "Our government is working with industry and employers to ensure that they have access to the workforce they need to fill the jobs they are creating."
Year-over-year, full-time employment in Saskatchewan increased by 19,600, an increase of 4 per cent.
Saskatchewan's two biggest cities also saw year-over-year growth. Compared to January 2025, Regina's employment was up 7,900 jobs, an increase of 5.5 per cent and Saskatoon's employment was up 3,200, an increase of 1.6 per cent.
Major year-over-year gains were reported for healthcare and social assistance, up 11,200, an increase of 11.6 per cent. Other services such as personal and repair services were up 5,000, an increase of 20.6 per cent and accommodation and food services, were up 2,900, an increase of 9.8 per cent.
Saskatchewan continues to show economic strength in other areas. In 2025 Saskatchewan ranked first amongst provinces for growth in urban housing starts, second for year-to-date new motor vehicle sales and third for the value of building permits.
This economic growth is backed by the Government of Saskatchewan's Building the Workforce for a Growing Economy: The Saskatchewan Labour Market Strategy, a roadmap to build the workforce needed to support Saskatchewan's strong and growing economy, and Securing the Next Decade of Growth: Saskatchewan's Investment Attraction Strategy, a plan to increase investment in the province and to further advancing Saskatchewan's Growth plan goal of $16 billion in private capital investment annually.
Paramedics in Saskatoon have issued strike notice following stalled contract negotiations with Medavie Health Services West, raising concerns about staffing pressures and long-term sustainability within the city’s emergency medical services system.
Members of the Saskatoon Paramedic Association voted unanimously in favour of a strike mandate earlier this month after negotiations between the union and Medavie reached an impasse. The association says workers have been without a new collective agreement since March 2024.
Union representatives have pointed to ongoing recruitment and retention challenges as key issues in the dispute, saying staffing shortages and increasing workloads have contributed to fatigue and burnout among paramedics and dispatch staff. The association has indicated that improving working conditions is a central priority in ongoing negotiations.
Despite the strike notice, paramedics have emphasized that emergency services are expected to continue, and residents are being advised to continue calling 9-1-1 as usual. The Saskatchewan Health Authority has also stated that it is working with Medavie Health Services West to ensure continuity of emergency care if job action proceeds.
The Saskatoon Paramedic Association has said any potential job action would come with advance notice, and no timeline has been confirmed for when or how action could occur. Both sides have indicated they remain open to reaching an agreement through further discussions.
The situation comes amid broader conversations across Saskatchewan about healthcare staffing levels and service pressures, particularly in emergency and frontline response roles. Union officials have expressed hope that public awareness surrounding the dispute will help encourage progress at the bargaining table.
Letter to the Editor
ABOVE: Pine Lodge Addiction Recovery in Regina will add 16 new second-stage sober living spaces, providing supportive housing for individuals continuing their recovery following initial treatment.
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ABOVE: The Martensville Marauder U9 Marlies won the gold medal at a tournament in Shellbrook this past weekend. (Martensville Minor Hockey Association)
ABOVE: The Martensville High School Sr. Girls curling club won the district championship. The team consists of Lindsay Miller, Emma Hurley, Jada and Drew Tarasoff, Aubrey Nystuen. (Martensville Curling Club)
