North Prairie Developments- CANWEST Winter FunFest 2025 is February 17th Fun for the whole family! Winter FunFest is held on Family Day at Northridge Community Centre and is full of winter-themed activities! We guarantee a day of family fun that will give you and your family some amazing memories.
Watch for updates in the coming weeks. We look forward to offering you a great day of Winter Activity and Fun.
Snow Removal this Winter – What you need to know
The City’s Snow Removal Program aims to keep roads safe, accessible, and clear for emergency services, vehicles, and pedestrians. While our crews work diligently, winter weather can be unpredictable, and snow-clearing activities may vary. Here’s how you can help:
- Avoid pushing snow onto streets - This creates ridges that obstruct plowing efforts and creates larger snow ridges at your driveway.
- Don’t pile snow on streets or hydrants - This can block emergency access.
- Clear driveways before plows arrive - This helps crews work efficiently and prevents ridges.
- Avoid parking on streets during snow clearing - Vehicles hinder operations and risk being blocked by snow.
- Watch for posted removal zones - Vehicles parked in these areas may be ticketed and towed.
- Stay back from sanding trucks - Keep a 15m distance to allow safe dispersion of salt and sand.
- Going on Vacation? - Consider removing your vehicle on the street in the event of snowfall and snow removal operations.
For more information and to view the City’s Priority Map, visit Martensville.ca.
Information on general program procedures and the City’s Priority Map is available online at Martensville.ca
In Case of a Water Line Freeze Up…
In the past, there have been areas in the community prone to water line freeze-ups.
If you experience a waterline freeze‐up or any other interruption in service, please call (306) 931‐2166 to report your issue. If this happens outside of regular business hours, please follow the prompts to be transferred to the emergency after‐hours contact.
Thank you for your co‐operation!
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 18th- Regular Council Meeting
March 4th- Regular Council Meeting
March 11th – Committee of the Whole
March 18th -Committee of the Whole
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 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.
Ice Conditions on Neighborhood Ponds
The Martensville Fire Department conducts regular ice measurements of the ponds in Martensville to ensure conditions are safe for recreational use. Measurements will be reported through the Fire Departments and the City of Martensville’s Facebook pages as well as reported on Martensville.ca. Ice is measured until thickness is above 12 inches.
Please pay attention to signs or barricades about ice conditions near ponds. Engaging in activities like skating on ponds is entirely at your own risk.
Ice should be avoided that: -looks slushy -has thawed, then froze again -is near moving water -is layered, caused by sudden temperature changes -has structures on it, such as pressure ridges.
Council Discusses Range of Topics at Monthly Committee of the Whole Meeting
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
The Committee of the Whole meeting for this month was held on Tuesday, February 11th and covered a variety of topics, beginning with a delegation from the Martensville & District Kinette Club to discuss rental rates with Council.
An amendment was made for City of Martensville signing authority, which previously included four individuals, with any two of them having the authority to sign official documents, agreements, and financial transactions on behalf of the municipality. The amendment saw each member of Council being added as an authorized signature, ensuring that Administration has options to contact and access an authorized signature when needed, and consistent modifications will not be required as the position of Deputy Mayor is rotated through Council members.
The City of Martensville, along with the RM of Corman Park, Dalmeny, Osler, and Warman were all members of the Opimihaw Creek Watershed Association. In a report to Council, it stated, “This group’s mandate was to create and implement a master regional drainage plan, including the construction and maintenance of drainage works for the Opimihaw Creek Watershed.” Previously, plans to identify and improve drainage in the Opimihaw Creek Watershed were made; however, before any work was done, the association became defunct. The committee is now looking to revive the work, and to do this, is looking for a $5000 contribution from each community.
The next item up for discussion included an amendment to the P4G District Official Community Plan Bylaw for a property south of Saskatoon. The request was made to change zoning from urban commercial/industrial land use to rural commercial/ industrial land use. To be approved, all five partnering communities included with P4G (Martensville, Warman, Saskatoon, Osler and the RM of Corman Park), must adopt the bylaw amendments.
The last item on the agenda was for a zoning bylaw amendment for parking requirements for indoor storage facilities and outdoor storage. The City received an application for a zoning bylaw amendment to remove parking requirements for a proposed self-storage facility in the Meadows Business Park. According to the report provided to Council, the facility will include construction of multiple buildings that will be divided into self-storage units. There will not be any staff on site to manage the facility. The current bylaw requires one paved parking space for every 90m2 gross floor area, and that any additional driving aisles or extra parking spaces installed do not require paving. The owner is requesting to not install of pave the required parking. The owner also noted that there may be storage of vehicles such as campers and trailers outside as well. Administration proposed an amendment to the bylaw that indoor storage facilities could qualify to apply to Council for parking in lieu considerations and that outdoor storage be defined and added to the bylaw.
Martensville City Council will meet again on Tuesday, February 18th at 5pm in Council Chambers at City Hall. More information on Council, meeting agendas and more can be found by visiting Martensville.ca.
Smokehaus Meats Donned the King of Kovbasa for the Third Year in a Row
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Martensville is chock full of talented individuals, successful businesses and dedicated organizations, and on February 6th, Smokehaus Meats made their community proud by being awarded the King of Kovbasa for the third year in a row.
The 23rd annual King of Kovbasa Competition took place on Thursday, February 6th in Saskatoon. Approximately 750 people attended the sold-out event, which partnered with the AIM (Ability in Me) Program, a non-profit organization that specializes in offering therapy and innovative programs to support individuals with Down Syndrome between the ages of 0-22, and their families.
The King of Kovbasa Competition included dancers from Pavlychenko Folklorique Ensemble, the band HALF NA PIV, sausage from twelve talented Saskatchewan businesses, a panel of celebrity judges and a room full of excited attendees, who got to sample and rate each of the sausages; which were presented anonymously; based on appearance, flavour, and texture.
Although this is the third year in a row that Smokehaus Meats was awarded the King of Kovbasa award, they have received this title seven times in total throughout the years. Be sure to stop in at Smokehaus Meats and purchase one of the award winning sausages for yourself, and maybe a few other delicious options they have available while you are there!
Celebrate Family Day Weekend with Free Fishing
February 15-17
This Family Day weekend, why not get out on the ice and go fishing? It's the perfect way to enjoy some family fun outside and the best part is - no angling licence required!
Free Fishing Weekend applies to all provincial waterbodies that allow sportfishing. All other regulations apply, including possession limits, and if you plan to take fish out of the province, you will need a valid Saskatchewan angling licence.
"In Saskatchewan, we are blessed to have some of the best sportfishing anywhere, right here in our backyard," Environment Minister Travis Keisig said. "Free Fishing Weekend is a great opportunity to discover - or rediscover - our beautiful province and the fun of angling with friends and family."
To make the most of your angling experience, keep these important things in mind:
Always, safety first! Be aware of ice thickness before travelling on it. Check out the Winter Ice Safety Fact Sheet for tips and ice thickness guidelines.
Some waterbodies have lake-specific rules and regulations so check the Anglers Guide.
Clean, drain and dry all your gear to reduce the risk of spreading aquatic invasive species.
Don't litter! Remove all garbage from the ice and dispose of it properly
To find out more about fishing in Saskatchewan, check the Saskatchewan Anglers Guide, available wherever fishing licences are sold or online at saskatchewan. ca/fishing.
ABOVE: Congratulations to Trent and Tanya Ens, along with all of the staff at Smokehaus Meats on the title of King of Kovbasa for the third year in a row, and their 7th overall win. (The Saskatchewanderer)
Angela Reddekopp
Honoured for Contributions to Basketball
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Angela Reddekopp is no stranger to the basketball scene, and over the past 7-8 years, Reddekopp has been the driving force behind the growth that basketball has seen within the community.
This dedication has not gone unnoticed, and on Saturday, February 8th, Reddekopp was presented with the Saskatoon Minor Basketball Association (SMBA)/ Huskie “Grow the Game” Volunteer of the Year award.
The presentation was made at the Huskies vs. Regina basketball game, where a record-breaking attendance of 2800 people attended.
“Angela’s dedication to growing basketball in Martensville and beyond has been truly inspiring, and we couldn’t think of a more deserving recipient,” SMBA shared via social media. “This incredible turnout highlights the strength of our basketball family and the impact of volunteers like Angela who work tirelessly behind the scenes to create opportunities for young athletes.”
ABOVE: Angela Reddekopp (centre) was presented with the SMBA/Huskie “Grow the Game” Volunteer of the Year award on February 8th.
(Submitted by Amber Ottenbreit)
In recent years, there has been significant growth in localized basketball opportunities, and Martensville currently has 11 basketball teams that range in age from youth in grade one to grade 9. The local teams practice within Martensville and have games in Saskatoon.
These opportunities are available largely in part due to Reddekopp’s contributions.
“Basketball holds a special place in my heart because I think it is a sport that can really benefit youth in so many ways. It helps them to learn how to work with a team, build their communication skills, enhance their ability to learn and comprehend the lessons, how to work hard at something and so much more. And all they need is a pair of runners and a basketball and they can get involved,” Reddekopp said. “I am so grateful to receive this award and absolutely honoured to be a part of such an amazing community. To be a part of something that can help benefit so many kids is truly a gift.”
Pizza With a Purpose
Take the day off from cooking on Saturday, February 15th and order a pizza from Dominos, where you can help support the Martensville Community Recreation Project (MCRP) at the same time. From 11am-8pm, you can order a medium 1-topping pizza (cheese or pepperoni), for only $5 each, including tax using the offer code 4MCRP. All proceeds from this fundraiser will go towards supporting the MCRP.
In addition, the first 50 customers will receive a free large 1-topping pizza voucher.
This offer is only valid at the Martensville location and can be made through online order, in-store and over the phone for carry-out only and will only be available while supplies last, so be sure you don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity.
ABOVE: The Martensville Marauder U11B Pirates won the B-final in Prince Albert on the weekend. (Martensville Minor Hockey Association)
ABOVE: The Martensville Marauder U13A Snipers earned themselves a silver medal in a 16team tournament in Regina this past weekend. (Martensville Minor Hockey Association)
ABOVE: The Martensville U15 Snipers went undefeated in their host tournament this weekend, earning them the gold medal. The final match was a battle between the Martensville Snipers vs Martensville Pirates. (Martensville Minor Hockey Association)
ABOVE: The Martensville Curling Club was the location for the 2025 SFFCA Provincial Championship from February 7-9 where Team Tarasoff came out as the champions. (Martensville Curling Club)
ABOVE: Team Derksen was undeafeated at the 2025 Pharmasave U20 Provincial Championships, earning them a spot at the 2025 New Holland U20 Canadian Championships in Summerside P.E.I. from March 22-30. Team Derksen consists of Skip: Dylan Derksen, Third: Logan Sawicki, Second: Tyler Derksen, Lead: Gavin Martens Coach: Garnet Zummack (Photo by CurlSask)
Bridge City Warmth Helping Provide to Those in Need
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Bridge City Warmth (BCW) is a newly formed volunteer organization that collects and distributes to unhoused individuals within Saskatoon during the winter months.
According to the 2024 Point-in-Time Count, there are currently an estimated 1500 individuals within Saskatoon that are experiencing homelessness, which includes individuals and families residing in emergency shelters, transitional housing, unsheltered locations including encampments, systems and experiencing hidden homelessness. This number has increased almost three times since last counted in 2022.
With this increase in need, a group of likeminded individuals came together to make a difference and thus, BCW was created.
“We like to say that Bridge City Warmth is the bridge connecting those in need with those who wish to give but just don’t know how. We knew there were a lot of people out there who care greatly about those in our community who are having a tough time right now, and
felt it was important to help,” BCW volunteer Melissa, explained.
Right now, the group says they are taking things slow and focusing on the immediate need of the unhoused, which has so far consisted of collecting and distributing items to those in need. Items such as warm adult winter gear, blankets, toiletries, and gift cards to purchase food are always accepted. There is also an ongoing GoFundMe page (Bridge City Warmth Fundraiser), as well as an Amazon Wish List page for people to contribute through.
Drop off locations for donations are available in Saskatoon and Martensville, which will be provided upon request.
“It’s hard to say where this journey will go, we just know that today, we are doing the best we can for those in need,” Melissa added.
There have been two distribution events held this year so far, with another planned for February 15th. In addition to these events, BCW follows up by doing patrols and handing out food and items to those in need.
“The need is increasing for sure. There have been articles online about the number of unhoused people living in our community, but along with that, there has also been great news about groups like ours that are out there, doing their best to help. There is a need that is bigger than one person, bigger than one group, and we are so happy to do our part.”
Find BCW on social media for regular updates, and to learn more about how you can contribute to this incredible cause. You can also email bridgecitywarmth@ gmail.com.
Beware Of Fake Online Casinos And Other Illegal Operators
If you see a Facebook or other social media ad for an online version of Dakota Dunes Casino, Casino Regina, or any other land-based casino in Saskatchewan, don't click on it. Scammers use these types of fake ads to defraud people by stealing credit card numbers and other banking information.
"None of the land-based casinos in Saskatchewan have a legitimate online version, and people who see these types of ads on their social media channels are strongly advised not to click on them," Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan (LGS) Vice President of Gaming Steve Tunison said. "Saskatchewan people who wish to gamble online can do so safely and securely on PlayNow.com, which is the only legal online gaming platform in our province."
If you spot one of these fake ads, report it promptly and directly to the online channel where it appeared, such as Facebook.
"Scam ads are an ongoing issue for land-based casinos across North America, including Casinos Regina and Moose Jaw and casinos operated by the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA)," Tunison said. "The scammers illegally use the logos, images, and branding of these casinos, stolen from the casinos' websites, to create the fake ads."
Saskatchewan people are reminded to always be wary when it comes to social media and other online offers and ads and to guard their credit card, banking and other personal information carefully.
Saskatchewan Continues Taking Action to Address Breast Cancer Diagnostic Waitlists
Out-of-Province Initiative Extended to Increase Patient Access to Urgent Diagnostics
The Government of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) are taking continued action to improve breast health services for Saskatchewan patients through a short-term extension to an initiative that allows patients to receive diagnostics at a medical facility in Calgary.
Established in November 2023, this agreement has been extended to March 2026 as a temporary measure to accelerate urgent diagnostic procedures until these services are fully stabilized in the province. The implementation of the Out-of-Province Program has significantly reduced wait times for urgent breast biopsies from November 2023 to date, bringing them in line with the clinically recommended target of three weeks or less.
"We are committed to ensuring Saskatchewan residents have access to safe, high quality, and timely breast health care services as we advance several measures to expand in-province capacity, implement new technologies and complete construction on the new Breast Health Centre in Regina," Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. "We appreciate the dedication from our health care teams to accelerate urgent diagnostic breast cancer procedures and treatments following a diagnosis."
Eligible Saskatchewan patients who are waiting for urgent diagnostic breast procedures, such as breast biopsies, will be triaged by health care providers, who will contact them to ensure thorough screening and determine their interest in participating in the program.
Patients identified as eligible and willing to travel to Calgary will receive diagnostic services based on their urgency, as determined by clinical evaluation. Those requiring urgent care will receive priority access, either within Saskatchewan or at the Calgary facility, depending on availability.
"The Out-of-Province Breast Assessment Program helps provide Saskatchewan residents at risk of breast cancer with timely access to urgent diagnostic services," Saskatchewan Health Authority Medical Imaging Executive Director Richard Dagenais said. "By extending this initiative, we can continue to address the immediate needs of patients while actively building capacity within the province to deliver high-quality breast health services closer to home."
To support patients accessing out-of-province services, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health will reimburse travel and accommodation expenses for the patient and one support person, to a maximum of $1,500. All medical expenses related to the diagnostic procedures will be fully covered by the Ministry of Health.
As of January 17, 2025, approximately 472 patients have had their diagnostic procedures completed in Calgary.
A number of proactive initiatives in Saskatchewan are either underway or in planning stages to enhance care and ensure it is provided in a timely manner, including:
• Construction of a new Breast Health Centre in Regina that will provide a colocation of services, such as diagnostic imaging, consultation with specialists and surgeons, patient education, support and navigation. The Centre will also offer on-site access to post-treatment care, such as therapies and rehabilitation;
• Phased expansion of breast screening eligibility to those aged 40 to 49, beginning in January 2025;
• Additional capacity in Saskatoon and Moose Jaw, offered to long-waiting and urgent patients from Regina and southern Saskatchewan, which has provided an additional 150 patients with timely access to breast diagnostic procedures since November 2023;
• Centralized booking for breast cancer screening, providing seamless care and quicker access for all patients;
• Implementation of 3D breast imaging (tomosynthesis), which will increase cancer detection, reduce the need for additional imaging views and tests, and reduce both false positive and false negative mammogram results;
• Implementation of new breast tumour localization "seed" technology, which results in fewer delays and cancellations, as well as less discomfort for the patient; and
• Ongoing work with the Ministry of Health to train and recruit medical radiation technologists, sonographers (ultrasound technologists), and radiologists specializing in breast imaging as part of its ongoing Health Human Resources Action Plan, including two local radiologists in Regina who recently completed their breast radiology fellowships.
To learn more about the out-of-province breast cancer diagnostic initiative, please visit: saskatchewan.ca/medical-imaging.
Saskatchewan's Year Starts Off Strong with the Lowest Unemployment Rate Among Provinces and 9,900 New Jobs
According to the latest labour force survey numbers from Statistics Canada, Saskatchewan started off 2025 tied for the lowest unemployment rate among provinces at 5.4 per cent, below the national average of 6.6 per cent. The province also added 9,900 new jobs year-over-year for the month of January.
“Saskatchewan continues to regularly have one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation as our economy continues to create more jobs and more opportunities,” Deputy Premier and Immigration and Career Training Minister Jim Reiter said. “Our government is committed to ensuring that Saskatchewan continues to grow and that is why we are focused on growing access to health care and educational spaces while taking action to make life more affordable for Saskatchewan people.”
Year-over-year full-time employment increased by 3,000, an increase of 0.6 per cent. Female employment is up 4,300, an increase of 1.5 per cent, and male employment is up 5,400, an increase of 1.7 per cent.
Major year-over-year job gains were reported for construction, up 6,300 (+16.6 per cent), health care & social assistance, up 5,900 (+6.5 per cent), and agriculture, up 3,500 (+15.3 per cent).
Saskatchewan's two biggest cities also saw year-over-year growth. Compared to January 2024, Saskatoon's employment was up 10,400, an increase of 5.4 per cent, and Regina's employment was up 1,200, an increase of 0.8 per cent.
Saskatchewan also saw strong growth across other economic indicators. The province ranked second in year-over-year retail trade growth with a 5.1 per cent increase from November 2023 to November 2024. Saskatchewan ranked second in the nation for month-over-month growth in building construction investment with an increase of 5.7 per cent. The province also saw an 11.8 per cent increase in year-over-year construction investment from November 2023 to November 2024.
This economic growth is backed by the Government of Saskatchewan’s recently released 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 furth advancing Saskatchewan’s Growth plan goal of $16 billion in private capital investment annually.
Letter to the Editor
The Martensville Messenger welcomes letters to the editor for publication. Letters must be signed and a phone number and/or email address included so the writer’s identity can be verified. ALL letters are the opinion of the writer and NOT the Martensville Messenger. We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity or compliance with the current standards of public taste. Submit your letter to news@martensvillemessenger.ca or mail to Box 333Martensville, SK S0K 2T0.
306-244-4950
Martensville, SK
POLICE BEAT
Saskatchewan RCMP Seizes Nearly Two Kilograms of Illicit Drugs and 35,000 Illegal Cigarettes Near Humboldt
Saskatchewan RCMP’s Prince Albert Crime Reduction Team (CRT), Warrant Enforcement and Suppression Team (WEST) and Humboldt Detachment arrested and charged one individual and seized nearly two kilograms of illicit drugs and 35,000 illegal cigarettes after executing a search warrant near Humboldt, SK.
On February 4, 2025, RCMP officers from Prince Albert CRT and Humboldt Detachment executed a search warrant at a residence northeast of Humboldt in relation to an ongoing investigation. While searching the residence, officers located and seized:
- 1,000 grams of methamphetamine; - 801 grams of cocaine; - 35,000 illegal cigarettes; - four firearms; - ammunition; - bear spray; and - additional drug trafficking paraphernalia.
Prince Albert RCMP WEST officers located and arrested an adult male and an adult female during a traffic stop near the residence.
While searching the vehicle, officers located and seized approximately $42,245 in cash, a small amount of crack cocaine, and additional evidence of drug trafficking.
As a result of investigation, 59-year-old Gaetan Carrier of Humboldt, SK is charged with:
- one count, possession for the purpose of trafficking – methamphetamine, Section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act,
- one count, possession for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine, Section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act; and
- one count, possession of the proceeds of crime over $5,000, Section 354(1)(a), Criminal Code.
The investigation continues. Further charges are anticipated. The adult female was released without charges.
Gaetan Carrier is scheduled to make his first appearance in Humboldt Provincial Court on March 24, 2025 (Information #90482224).
RCMP Release Names of Deceased Victims in Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation Homicides
The Saskatchewan Coroner’s Service, in conjunction with the Saskatchewan RCMP and in collaboration with the families of the deceased victims, are releasing the names of the people who died as a result of the homicides on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation on February 4, 2025. Their identities are being released to help further the investigation. We share our condolences with the families and community members impacted by this tragedy.
The Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes Family Liaison team and Victim Services continue to communicate with the victim’s families.
With this in mind and to assist ongoing reporting, families of the deceased have provided photographs of their loved ones which they have permitted us to share with news partners. They are the highest quality photographs we have available. The families have asked for privacy during this difficult time.
The deceased victims are identified as:
• 34-year-old Tracey Hotomani of Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation
• 44-year-old Sheldon Quewezance of Zagime Anishinabek
• 47-year-old Shauna Fay of Indian Head
• 51-year-old Terry Jack of Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation
Update on Suspicious Deaths on Carry the Kettle Nakoda NationInvestigation has determined the homicide victims were injured by firearm. The investigation continues, which includes investigators speaking with individuals who may have relevant information to share, as well as evidence analysis. Neighbourhood canvasses have also occurred on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation.
At this time no arrests have been made in relation to the deaths of the four victims.
“We are actively investigating this tragedy to piece together the details of what happened - this takes time. We must be mindful that releasing more specific details could impact the overall investigation,” says Inspector Ashley St. Germaine, Senior Investigative Officer of Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes. “I reiterate: if you have information to share about this investigation, please speak directly with the police so it can be examined thoroughly. Rumours can spread quickly. Please remember the loss the victim’s loved ones have experienced. Misinformation can impact an investigation by rerouting investigators in false directions. Investigations must follow evidence and our investigators are trained to do just that.”
Update on Firearm Incident on Zagime Anishinabek - This investigation continues.
