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
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.
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.
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!
Trilogy Ranch Development Topic of Discussion at Feb 18 Council Meeting
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Martensville City Council met on Tuesday, February 18th for a Regular Council meeting to discuss several topics. The meeting began with public hearings regarding bylaw amendments to allow for a dwelling group on land currently designated as commercial. The bylaw amendments were for a parcel of land located at the corner of Main Street and 16th Avenue North, where the owner received an offer to purchase 2.72 acres of land with the intention of constructing two apartment buildings on site. The land is currently designated as commercial within the Official Community Plan, the Lake Vista Concept Plan map and the Zoning Bylaw. To be modified to residential, all three areas will require amendments.
A discussion item regarding a concept plan for the Trilogy Ranch development on the west side of the Highway 12 overpass to accommodate future growth for the community was also on the agenda. The Trilogy Ranch development consists of approximately 670 acres of future residential and commercial development, as well as parks and recreation and a school site. It is expected to consist of a population between 10,715 to 13,706, and is the largest proposed development in Martensville’s history.
Representatives from North Prairie Developments Ltd./Canwest Commercial & Land Corporation attended the meeting to present detailed information to Council and get feedback.
Due to the size of the development, it is recommended that portions are approved on a pre-determined portion of the plan area, which could be based on a 10-15 year growth, or a preset or predetermined population, while accepting the rest of the plan “inprinciple”.
Because the development is located on the opposite side of the overpass, there will be limited ability to rely on existing infrastructure to service the area, creating additional expenses. Additionally, with a larger population and more vehicle traffic, upgrades/additions will be required to the existing overpass, as well as the installation of a second overpass. It was recommended that Council approve a portion of the concept plan that will not trigger overpass upgrades to provide additional time to determine the best way to address the infrastructure requirements of the project.
Another topic mentioned in the presentation included municipal reserve dedication. The developer is required to include a specific amount of green space based on the size of the development, and currently, the plan has a 6-acre deficit. The developer would prefer to address the 6 acres at a later point in the development, either through the addition of park, or a cash in lieu payment that would equal the value of the land that would have been dedicated. According to Mayor Muench, previous councils had inquired about acquiring additional land for a community park, similar to Kinsmen Park. Parks of this size are not the responsibility of the developer, and if council is looking to move forward with a park of this nature, more discussions with the developer would be required.
The density and diversity of housing was also discussed, with density guidelines based on approved amounts outlined in the P4G planning document, which are then reflected in Martensville’s Official Community Plan. The two main urban criteria include meeting minimum average gross residential density of seven dwellings per acre and mixed-use node minimum densities of 30.4 residents and jobs combined per gross developable acre. The need for a multitude of housing options within the community to ensure all residents are supported is apparent, which would include the addition of dense housing options/apartment style living options.
Other items such as an emergency response plan, fiscal impact assessment, development standards review, and proposed resident centre were also included in the provided documents.
Going forward, this discussion can help Council determine steps needed to finalize the concept plan, which would then come back to Council as a bylaw amendment to append it to the Official Community Plan. The bylaw would then be sent to the province for formal approval.
More details on the Trilogy Ranch development, as well as other topics discussed at the February 18th meeting can be found by viewing the meeting agenda online at Martensville.ca.
Dominos Helps Raise Funds for MCRP
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
This past weekend, local residents had a great opportunity to feed their families and support a great cause at the same time for only $5.00.
The Martensville Dominos location helped raise money for the Martensville Community Recreation Project (MCRP) through a fundraiser on Saturday, February 15th. From 11am-8pm that day, customers could order a medium 1-topping pizza for only $5.00 each using a specific code. All proceeds from the fundraiser will be used towards supporting the MCRP.
In total, an incredible $3,580 was raised through the ‘Pizza with a Purpose’ fundraiser.
“We are absolutely blown away by the incredible support from Dominos and our amazing community,” the MCRP stated via social media. “A huge thank you to Dominos for hosting this fantastic fundraiser and to everyone in Martensville who ordered, shared, and supported. Your contributions make a real difference in our community.”
“Martensville, you showed up in the best way possible, and we couldn’t have done it without you,” Dominos.Martensville.Warman shared on their Facebook page.
ABOVE: The Martensville Dominos Pizza location helped to raise over $3500 for the MCRP in a fundraiser held on February 15th. (Dominos.Martensville. Warman)
LEFT: A moose was spotted on Highway 305 between Martensville and Warman over the weekend, a good reminder to motorists to keep an eye out. (Kristine O’Brien)
Drop-Ins Welcome to Attend Field House During February Break
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
If you haven’t had a chance to check out the Martensville Recreation Centre Field House yet, this week is a great opportunity to do so. Throughout February break, there will be drop-in options available for the whole family for only $3.25/person, or $8.25/family.
Bring your own soccer ball, frisbee, football, etc. and stop in to see the new facility and burn off some extra energy from being cooped up inside during the extreme cold warnings.
On Wednesday, February 19th, there will be free drop-in sessions available from 9:30am-7:00pm as part of the Community Open House. From 9:30am-3:00pm, there will be a soccer/football drop-in on the TimKen ¼ Field, and from 9:30am-3:00pm, there will be baseball/softball drop-in on the Valley United ¼ Field. Then, from 3:00pm7:00pm, drop-ins will be welcome on the turf.
On Thursday, February 20th and Friday, February 21st, drop-ins will be welcome from 9:30am-5:00pm for the fees listed above.
Turf will be a shared space for youth and adults of all ages during the open times, so those attending are reminded to be mindful of others while playing.
ABOVE: February break is a great time to check out the Field House in the Martensville Recreation Centre. A variety of drop-in times are available throughout the week, with Wednesday, February 19th offering free options as part of the Community Open House. (Valley Soccer Association)
Editor/Office Manager: Shanine
SJHL Governors conditionally approve relocation of Notre Dame to Warman
The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League’s Board of Governors has conditionally approved the relocation of the Notre Dame Hounds to the community of Warman for the 2025-2026 season.
The relocation is contingent upon approval by Warman City Council and a successful season ticket and corporate sponsorship drive in the community.
Should the relocation be approved, all Notre Dame list assets and active players eligible for the 2025-26 SJHL season will be transferred to the Warman SJHL franchise.
The modern SJHL Hounds have been part of the SJHL since 1987. For nearly 38 years, the Hounds have provided outstanding opportunities for young men to pursue their academic and hockey futures while playing in one of Canada’s top Junior A leagues.
With the sincere interest of maintaining Notre Dame’s stellar reputation, keeping a premier player experience at the forefront, the Notre Dame Board of Directors has made the difficult decision to discontinue Junior A Programming at Wilcox.
Commissioner Kyle McIntyre commented on the relocation; “It is bittersweet having a historical program like the Notre Dame Junior A Hounds leave the SJHL. We understand that there is a new and exciting vision for Notre Dame. We appreciate the Board’s focus on player well-being and experience and are excited about the possibility of adding a strong and progressive new leadership group to our league in Saskatchewan’s fastest growing city.”
“Thank you to the Hounds for 38 years of developing players and creating better citizens both on and off the ice.”
“Our goal is to partner with the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League to offer players an excellent experience and opportunity to showcase their talents, within a community deeply invested in their success while instilling valuable life skills beyond hockey,” said Warman Co-Founders Cole Kachur and Jonathan Abrametz.
“Warman’s vibrant atmosphere, state-of-the-art arena, and enthusiasm for hockey at all levels, will make the new Warman SJHL franchise a destination for some of the top junior hockey players in Canada.”
Final league approval will take place at the league’s Annual General Meeting in June. Further details to come in the coming months.
Martensville Curling Club Hosts Mixed Doubles Provincials
The Martensville Curling Club hosted the Mixed Doubles Provincials from February 13-16, which saw over 20 teams from across the province competing for the title. Several curlers from Martensville competed in the event, including Braden Grindheim with Tesa Silversides, Amanda Kuzyk with Ben Gamble and Matthew Drewitz with Chloe Johnston.
The playoffs took place on Sunday, February 16th, and local teams Silversides/Grindheim and Kuzyk/ Gamble competed in the first round, however, neither team moved on to the second round. In the end, the final match was between Garret Springer/Jill Springer out of Highland and Matthew and Jessica Lang out of Langenburg, with Lang/Lang winning with a score of 10-9.
ABOVE & BELOW: Curlers competed in the Mixed Doubles Provincials in Martensville from Feb. 13-16. (Martensville Curling Club)
Outdoor Activites Cancelled at Annual Winter FunFest Due to Extreme Cold
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
This year’s Winter FunFest was held on Monday, February 17th and the City of Martensville had a big day planned for the community.
Due to the inclement weather, all outdoor activities had to be canceled. Despite the chilly temperatures, the annual Winter FunFest saw a good turnout, demonstrating the community's enthusiasm and resilience. Families that came to the event were eager to partake in the multitude of activities and share in the festive spirit.
“Winter FunFest is always a community favorite where families can come out and celebrate a day together with indoor and outdoor activities. Though the weather did not cooperate this year, families were still able to enjoy the fun inside that featured bounce houses, hot dogs and hot chocolate, a visit from Anna and Elsa, activities from the library, and soap carving. Overall, it was a wonderful day,” Jamie McCulloch, Recreation Program Coordinator II stated.
Events such as this one would not be possible without contributions from supporters, and McCulloch took a moment to express gratitude to those that helped make the event a success. “Thank you to our Community Champions North Prairie Development Ltd and CANWEST and to the 574 Royal Air Cadets who spent the day volunteering at the event.”
An assortment of indoor activities were available to those that braved the cold temperatures to take part in the annual Winter FunFest event. Unfortunately, all outdoor activities were cancelled due to the extreme cold warning that has hit the area throughout the past week.
(Jocelyn Ottenbreit/MM)
$1.5 Million in Charitable Gaming Grants Paid to Community Groups Across Saskatchewan
Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan (LGS) provided $1.5 million in charitable gaming grants in the third quarter of 2024-25, benefiting more than 700 groups and organizations across the province.
"These grants help charitable and nonprofit groups provide a variety of programs and services across our province - everything from animal rescue to youth sports to arts and culture, and so much more," Minister Responsible for LGS Jeremy Harrison said. "Nearly 2,500 groups and organizations qualified for a charitable gaming grant last year, and this year we have been encouraging even more groups to apply."
The Jim Pattison Children's Hospital Foundation is one of the recipients of the grants, helping to fund their important work in support of pediatric and maternal health services.
"Charitable gaming grants make a meaningful difference for families in Saskatchewan," Jim Pattison Children's Hospital Foundation CEO Troy Davies said. "These funds help ensure children and moms-to-be have access to family-centred programs, world-class equipment and innovative technology at Jim Pattison Children's Hospital and across the province."
Groups in about 200 Saskatchewan communities received a charitable gaming grant in the third quarter of 2024-25, with more than $431,000 going to groups in Regina and more than $280,000 to groups in Saskatoon.
Other regions across the province also received funding, including:
• Yorkton, Melville and area - more than $103,000
• Swift Current and area - more than $102,000
• Weyburn, Estevan and area - more than $94,000
• Prince Albert and area- more than $30,000
• Meadow Lake and area - more than $29,000
• Humboldt, Melfort and area - more than $21,000
In Martensville, a total of $13,135.22 was provided to local groups, including the Martensville & District Lions Club ($2005.80), Martensville & District Kinette Club ($1,001.93), Martensville Marauders U13AA ($880.00), Martensville Marauders U15AA ($375.63), Martensville Marauders U16AA ($508.75), Martensville Marauders U18AA ($455.00), Martensville Marauders U9-B Pirates ($1832.50), Martensville U11C Bandits ($350), Martensville U13 C Bandits ($318.75), Martensville U15 Villains ($1265.00), Martensville U7 Sharks ($540.00), Saskatoon Ringette Association
– U14AA Saints Ringette ($1613.75), U11 Martensville Prowlers Hockey Team ($505.63), U7 Martensville Maven Marlies ($709.98) and the U9 Martensville Maven Marlies ($772.50).
These quarterly grants are paid to groups and organizations in good standing that conduct licensed charitable gaming activities such as bingos, raffles, breakopen ticket sales, Texas hold 'em poker tournaments and Monte Carlo events. The grants are equal to 25 per cent of the net revenue raised by each charitable event, up to a maximum of $100,000 per group or organization annually.
The amount of each grant paid by LGS to each charity is calculated by the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) based on financial reports and other information submitted by the group or organization. Groups can apply through SLGA's charitable gaming licensing process here. (https://www.slga.com/permits-andlicences/charitable-gaming).
Saskatchewan's Building Construction Leads the Nation
Province ranks first in year-over-year growth
On February 13th, new Statistics Canada data shows that Saskatchewan's building construction investment increased by 30.0 per cent in December 2024 compared to December 2023 (seasonally-adjusted). The province also saw a 9.4 per cent increase in month-over-month growth from November 2024 to December 2024.
This ranks Saskatchewan first in year-over-year and second in month-overmonth growth in this category among the provinces.
"The increased activity we are seeing across our construction sector is a testament to the confidence individuals and businesses have in our province's strong and stable economy," said Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding. "Every new project contributes not only to job growth and infrastructure development, but further bolsters Saskatchewan's economy. These investments lead to direct benefits for Saskatchewan's communities, now and into the future."
Investment in building construction is calculated based on the total spending value on building construction within the province.
Statistics Canada's latest GDP numbers indicate that Saskatchewan's 2023 real GDP reached an all-time high of $77.9 billion, increasing by $1.77 billion, or 2.3 per cent from 2022. This places Saskatchewan second in the nation for real GDP growth, and above the national average of 1.6 per cent.
Private capital investment is projected to reach $14.2 billion in 2024, an increase of 14.4 per cent over 2023. This is the highest anticipated percentage increase in Canada.
Last year, the Government of Saskatchewan unveiled its new Securing the Next Decade of Growth - Saskatchewan's Investment Attraction Strategy. This strategy, combined with Saskatchewan's trade and investment website, InvestSK.ca, contains helpful information for potential markets and solidifies the province as the best place to do business in Canada.
For more information visit InvestSK.ca.
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 333 - Martensville, SK S0K 2T0.
POLICE BEAT
Saskatchewan RCMP Lay 64 Charges Against 3 in Bank Robbery and String of ATM Thefts
North Battleford RCMP’s Provincial General Investigation Section (GIS) have laid 64 charges against three people in connection to a Landis bank robbery on November 22, 2024, as well as a string of ATM thefts, and attempted thefts, that took place across South and Central Saskatchewan between November 22, 2024 and January 1, 2025.
RCMP Provincial GIS’ investigation included widespread coordination across many front-line detachments, police units and Crime Stoppers, to connect incidents reported in the communities of: Dodsland, Rosetown, Gull Lake, Lemberg, Wolseley, Craven, Neilburg, Marshall, Battleford, Purdue, and Mosquito, Grizzly Bear's Head, Lean Man First Nation. “Complex investigations like this involve extensive resources and large-scale coordination across multiple detachment areas. The sheer number of crimes solved in this investigation really highlights the successful collaboration between support units of the RCMP and front-line officers,” says Sgt. Adam Buckingham, Officer in Charge, North Battleford Provincial GIS.
RCMP-coordinated efforts led police to a residence in Biggar, where officers with North Battleford Provincial GIS, Crime Reduction Team (CRT) and Biggar Detachment, executed a search warrant on February 5, 2025. At the residence, officers located and seized items believed to be connected to the ATM occurrences and Landis bank robbery. As a result of investigation 36-year old Sheena Benoit and 33-year old Joshua Meszaros were arrested at the time of the search.
As a result of further investigation, Sheena Benoit (AKA: Sheena Harrabek) faces 16 charges including: three counts, break and enter and commit an offence, Section 348(1)(b), Criminal Code; one count, theft over $5000, Section 334(a), Criminal Code; six counts, theft under $5000, Section 334(b), Criminal Code; six counts, mischief damage to property of a value over $5000, Section 430(3), Criminal Code.
Joshua Meszaros faces 24 charges including: three counts, break and enter and commit an offence, Section 348(1)(b), Criminal Code; one count, break and enter with intent to commit an offence, Section 348(1)(a), Criminal Code; seven counts, disguised with intent to commit an offence, Section 351(2), Criminal Code; one count, theft over $5000, Section 334(a), Criminal Code; six counts, theft under $5000, Section 334(b), Criminal Code; five counts, mischief/damage to property of a value over $5000, Section 430(3), Criminal Code; one count, mischief/damage to property of a value under $5000, Section 430(4), Criminal Code.
A third suspect, 48-year-old Jeremy Seery of Rosetown was arrested on February 12, 2025 and faces 24 charges including: one count, break and enter and commit an offence, Section 348(1)(b), Criminal Code; two counts, break and enter with intent to commit an offence, Section 348(1)(a); one count, robbery with other offensive weapon, Section 344, Criminal Code; seven counts, disguised with intent to commit an offence, Section 351(2), Criminal Code; one count, theft over $5000, Section 334(a), Criminal Code; six counts, theft under $5000, Section 334(b), Criminal Code; six counts, mischief/damage to property of a value over $5000, Section 430(3), Criminal Code.
Joshua Meszaros and Sheena Benoit are scheduled to appear in North Battleford Provincial Court on April 7, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.
Jeremy Seery is scheduled to appear in North Battleford Provincial Court on April 14, 2025 at 9:30 a.m.
If have information about these or any other crime, contact Saskatchewan RCMP at 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers. com.
Provincially Funded Specialized Policing Teams Continue To
Build Public Safety
From July 1 to December 31, 2024, officers from Saskatchewan's municipal Crime Reduction Teams (CRTs) and Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team (STRT) seized 67 firearms, more than 23 kilograms of methamphetamine and nearly 2.5 kilograms of fentanyl from Saskatchewan communities. Officers also charged 89 people with a total of 475 criminal charges.
"These numbers highlight the tireless efforts of our specialized policing teams in Saskatchewan and the positive impact they are having on our neighbourhoods and communities," Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Minister Tim McLeod said. "We are proud to continue supporting provincial law enforcement initiatives, and we are grateful for the work that is done by our municipal police services every day in support of community safety and wellbeing."
There are currently three municipal CRT and STRT teams operating out of Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon. CRTs are dedicated to targeting street gangs and prolific offenders while responding to urban and rural crime surges when needed. STRT investigates illegal weapons, drugs and human trafficking cases.
"Crime is more complex than ever, and we need to be able to respond to the changing needs of our community," Regina Police Service Chief Farooq Sheikh said. "Collaborating with government and community partners allows us to respond more effectively. This ongoing funding is a great example of how working together we can keep our communities safe."
Between July and December 2024, municipal STRTs opened 19 human trafficking files and initiated 21 human trafficking interventions.
On November 27, 2024, members of the Saskatoon Police CRT investigated a case of suspected drug trafficking, resulting in the seizure of: $69,000 CAD; approximately 16 kilograms of methamphetamine; 470 grams of powdered cocaine; 175 grams of carfentanyl; 4 litres of gamma-hydroxybutyrate; 16 grams of fentanyl; and assorted paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking.
As a result of this investigation, 15 charges were laid related to the possession of controlled substances and the proceeds of crime over $5,000.
"The Saskatoon Police Service is appreciative of provincial funding and support that allows us to enhance our policing efforts, invest in critical resources, and ensure our officers have the tools they need to keep our neighbourhoods safe," Saskatoon Police Service Chief Cameron McBride said. "It is not just an investment in law enforcement - it is an investment in the safety and wellbeing of all of our communities."
On October 24, 2024, during the execution of two search warrants, the Prince Albert Police Service CRT charged two individuals and seized over 1,200 grams of cocaine, more than $39,000 cash, over 1,300 grams of cutting agent, two firearms and other evidence related to drug trafficking.
"The provincially funded CRTs and STRTs continue to play a critical role in enhancing public safety across the province, including Prince Albert," Prince Albert Police Service Chief Patrick Nogier said. "These specialized units provide the resources and flexibility needed for officers to focus on 21st century policing initiatives. In Prince Albert, their ongoing efforts have substantially contributed to reducing drug trafficking, removing illegal firearms and disrupting organized crime. This sustained impact reflects the dedication of the Ministry of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety in supporting proactive policing initiatives that protect our communities and promote long-term public safety."
Drug Trafficking Charges Laid Following Search Warrant in Swift Current
An adult female is facing a drug trafficking charge after Saskatchewan RCMP executed a search warrant and seized cocaine in Swift Current, SK.
On February 12, 2025, officers with Saskatchewan RCMP’s Swift Current Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team (STRT), Swift Current Municipal and Rural Detachments, and Police Dog Services (PDS) executed a search warrant at a residence on the 1100 block of Winnie Street East as part of an ongoing drug trafficking investigation.
An adult female was arrested at the residence. RCMP officers located and arrested two adult females in a vehicle at a business on 6th Avenue Northeast and South Service Road.
While searching the residence and vehicle, officers located and seized approximately 109 grams of powder cocaine, a small amount of methamphetamine and other evidence of drug trafficking.
As a result of investigation, 31-year-old Lacey Mandel of Swift Current, SK is charged with one count, possession for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine, Section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
The two other females were released without charges.
Lacey Mandel will make her first appearance in Swift Current Provincial Court on March 12, 2024 (Information #90566526).
