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Your City; Your Newspaper July 16, 2026

VOLUME NO. 20 - ISSUE 29

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Lightning Lights Up the Night Sky

A powerful overnight thunderstorm put on a spectacular display as lightning illuminated the sky over Martensville. The storm brought brilliant flashes across the community, creating a memorable summer night scene.

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Page 2 - JULY 16, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

City Budget 2027 Survey

Upcoming Council and Committee of the Whole Meeting Dates

The City of Martensville is inviting residents to help shape the priorities for the 2027 municipal budget by completing a short online survey.

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.

Your feedback will help Council and Administration better understand community priorities as they plan for future services, programs, infrastructure, and investments. Whether it’s roads, parks, recreation, public safety, or other municipal services, your input plays an important role in the budget planning process.

August 18 – Committee of the Whole Meeting August 25 – Regular Council Meeting

The survey only takes a few minutes to complete and is open to all Martensville residents. It will close on July 18th. Take the survey today by visiting: https://www.martensville.ca/pages-city_hall-html/citybudget-2027-survey/, or by using the QR Code below.

Martensville Athletic Pavilion (MAP) – Summer Hours

The MAP has moved to its summer operating schedule for July and August. Summer Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:00am – 10:00pm Saturday & Sunday: 9:00am – 6:00pm

Call 306-683-5576 or visit Martensville.ca for more information and schedules.

Martensville Athletic Pavilion (MAP) – Summer Hours

The MAP has moved to its summer operating schedule for July and August. Summer Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:00am – 10:00pm Saturday & Sunday: 9:00am – 6:00pm

Call 306-683-5576 or visit Martensville.ca for more information and schedules.

Martensville Spray Park

The Martensville Spray Park in Lions Park is fully operational and open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Spray Park will remain open through the September long weekend. Stop by to cool off and enjoy some summer fun with family and friends!

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.

Committee of the Whole Meeting Recap – July 7, 2026

Delegations 1. Local business owners Trent Ens and Anthony Nienhuis appeared before Council to discuss the Centennial Drive North road closure between 3rd Street North and Baycroft Drive. They shared concerns about the impacts of the closure on local businesses and expressed disappointment with the communication and advance notice provided prior to construction. 2. RCMP Staff Sergeant Jason Teniuk presented a comparative policing stats report for May and June, highlighting crime and policing trends by comparing data from 2025 and 2026. Reports 3. Council approved moving forward with the sale of a City-owned vacant lot located at 21 1st Avenue North. The property was acquired through tax enforcement in the early 1980s and has remained undeveloped for many years. In accordance with The Tax Enforcement Act, the property will be advertised for a minimum of three weeks and offered for sale through a private sealed tender process, with bids submitted to the City’s appointed auditor, BDO Canada LLP. Council also directed Administration to place sale signage on the property as part of the advertising process. 4. A proposal from a local business has been received to secure naming rights for the arena at the Martensville Recreation Centre (MRC), valued at $50,000 annually over ten years. The City’s contractor for the MRC, Nustadia, has been negotiating the remaining sponsorship and naming rights agreements at the MRC. Nustadia has recommended finalizing this agreement for the arena. It was noted that the value suggested is below the previously established valuation of $1,500,000 identified during the MRC fundraising campaign. City Council seemed to be in favour of the sponsorship. A motion will be brought to the next Regular Council meeting for formal approval. 5. Council reviewed proposed updates to the City’s Naming of Civic Property and Development Areas Policy aimed at creating a more consistent and transparent process for evaluating naming submissions. The proposed policy introduces a structured evaluation tool, a defined scoring rubric, and weighted assessment criteria to help the Naming Committee fairly evaluate future submissions while ensuring they align with community values. Due to the number of proposed changes, it is recommended that the existing Policy #103/19 be repealed and Policy #123/26 be adopted. A motion will be brought to the next Regular Council meeting for formal approval. 6. Council discussed ongoing traffic concerns on 1st Avenue North between 3rd Street North and Baycroft Drive following feedback from area residents. While the recently installed three-way stop has helped reduce vehicle speeds, concerns remain about the volume of traffic using the roadway. Administration advised that speed bumps will be investigated as a potential traffic-calming measure.

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Martensville Fire Department Reminds Residents to Stay Clear of Downed Power Lines Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

The Martensville Fire Department shared information via social media reminding residents to use caution around downed power lines and damaged electrical equipment following recent severe weather that has resulted in several calls for downed power lines and power line fires throughout the area. They noted that any downed power line should always be treated as if it is live and extremely dangerous. Residents are urged to never approach a downed line or assume it has been de-energized. Anyone who sees a downed power line or smoke or fire involving electrical equipment is asked to call 911 immediately. Prompt reporting allows emergency responders and utility crews to respond quickly and safely to secure the area. If a downed power line is near your home, the MFD advises staying indoors and avoiding the temptation to go outside to investigate or take photos. Children and pets should also be kept well away from the area until crews have confirmed it is safe. Motorists are also reminded that if a power line falls onto their vehicle, they should remain inside the vehicle if it is safe to do so and call 911. The only exception is if there is an immediate danger, such as a fire, requiring occupants to leave the vehicle. They also added that keeping a safe distance from electrical hazards and reporting them promptly helps protect residents, utility workers, and emergency responders. "Your safety is our top priority," the MFD said, thanking residents for doing their part to help keep the community safe.

Martensville Library Offers Full Lineup of Summer Programs Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

The Martensville Library is keeping children and families busy this summer with a variety of free programs designed to encourage reading, creativity and play. Several drop-in programs are continuing throughout July, giving families plenty of opportunities to connect with others while enjoying stories, songs and handson activities. For babies up to 12 months and their caregivers, Books & Babies offers an opportunity to build early literacy skills through stories, songs, rhymes and movement, followed by play and social time. The free drop-in program takes place on Tuesday, July 14 and Tuesday, July 28 at 10:30 a.m. Toddlers ages one to three can enjoy Wiggles & Giggles, a story and play program featuring short stories, songs and movement activities. The drop-in program runs on Friday, July 17, with additional sessions planned throughout August. Families can also take advantage of Storytime in the Park, held Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. in Andrea’s Park, weather permitting. Participants are encouraged to bring a blanket or towel to sit on while enjoying stories and songs outdoors. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, the program moves inside the library. Older children still have an opportunity to register for Crafty Creations: Phone Charms on Wednesday, July 22, from 2 to 3 p.m. The program is open to ages 10 and up, but organizers say additional registrations are needed for the workshop to go ahead. There are also spaces available in the Saskatchewan Science Centre’s Go Science program on Tuesday, July 28, from 1 to 4 p.m. The free, three-hour program is open to children ages seven to 13 and registration is required. Visitors can also stop by the library anytime to build with Snatoms or explore the Storybook Trail in Veterans Square, weather permitting. To register for the Crafty Creations Phone Charms workshop, the Go Science program, or for more information about upcoming activities, contact the Martensville Library at 306-956-7311. The library continues to offer a full schedule of summer programming, providing fun and educational opportunities for children of all ages throughout the season.

Council Approves Lake Vista 2 Rezoning and Economic Development Incentives Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Martensville City Council met for its only regular meeting of the month on Tuesday, July 14th, with discussion around several development, infrastructure and economic growth initiatives. The meeting began with a public hearing for Bylaw 12-2026, which rezoned a portion of land north of 3rd Street from Future Urban Development to R2 and R3 residential. The rezoning marks the first phase of the Lake Vista 2 development and includes the final undeveloped portion of the original Lake Vista neighbourhood. Following the public hearing, council gave second and third readings to the bylaw. The approved zoning will allow for 24 semi-detached homes with attached front garages on the south side of 3rd Street North, while the north side of the street will feature single-family homes on wider lots. Three additional single-family lots will also be developed along the remaining portion of Oliver Lane. Council also approved a new Naming of Civic Property and Development Areas Policy, replacing the existing policy with one that includes a weighted scoring system designed to provide greater consistency, fairness and transparency when evaluating future street and park names. A sponsorship agreement for the arena at the Martensville Recreation Centre also received council's approval. The agreement secures $50,000 annually for 10 years in exchange for the arena naming rights. Council also approved replacing the furnace and ductwork at the Public Works building on 9th Street North. Although the project had originally been scheduled for 2027, recent heavy rainfall revealed the existing in-floor duct system was no longer usable, prompting administration to recommend moving the work forward. The estimated cost of the project is $60,000. Several economic development incentives were also approved, which included a three-year tax abatement was granted for a proposed 7,500-square-foot commercial building at 900 8th Street South, a project valued at approximately $1.43 million. Eco Elevator will occupy one of the bays, while the remaining space has been designed for future tenants. Council also approved a four-year tax abatement for J-Frame Construction's new 14,400-square-foot building at 890 8th Street South. The development is valued at approximately $2.5 million. A five-year tax abatement was approved for the new two-storey health facility under construction at 100 Mirond Road in Lake Vista. The development exceeds the City's $4 million investment threshold and will feature solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations and a rooftop garden sustained by harvested rainwater. The site has also been designed to accommodate a future building. Council will meet again on Tuesday, August 18th at 5:00pm in Council Chambers at Martensville City Hall. For more information about Council, meetings, or to view meeting agendas, visit Martensville.ca.

Page 4 - JULY 16, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Sonia's School of Ukrainian Dance Welcomes New and Returning Dancers for 2026 Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Sonia's School of Ukrainian Dance (SSUD) is inviting dancers of all ages and experience levels to lace up their dance shoes for the 2026 season. Whether someone is stepping into the studio for the first time or has years of dance experience, the school says there is a place for everyone. No previous dance experience is required, and participants do not need to be of Ukrainian heritage to join. The school offers dancers the opportunity to stay active, build strength and coordination, make lasting friendships, and perform at community events, cultural celebrations and festivals throughout the year. In addition to its regular dance program, SSUD is offering Elevate Your Technique classes. The specialized program focuses on building a strong technical foundation, improving turns, increasing flexibility and helping dancers refine their overall performance. The classes will be led by Kelsee Douglas, who is RAD Ballet Advanced 1 certified and a senior cast member with the Pavlychenko Folklorique Ensemble.

Foxtails Pose Serious Risk to Pets During Summer Months Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

A s fields, parks, ditches and fence lines fill with dry grasses during the summer, pet owners are reminded to keep a close eye out for foxtails, a common weed that can cause serious, and sometimes life-threatening, injuries to animals. Foxtails are the barbed seed heads of certain grasses. While they may seem harmless, the sharp seeds can attach to a pet's fur and burrow into the skin, ears, eyes, nose, mouth or between the toes. Once embedded, they continue moving forward through the body and cannot work themselves back out. If they are not removed, they can cause pain, abscesses and migrate to deeper tissues that are harder and more dangerous to reach. In severe cases, foxtails have been known to migrate through the body and reach major organs, including the lungs, heart and brain. Because they don't show up on X-rays and do not dissolve naturally, they often require sedation or surgery to locate and remove. Dogs are most commonly affected, particularly those that spend time running through tall grass, although cats can also be at risk. Symptoms vary depending on where the foxtail becomes lodged. Pets may suddenly begin licking or chewing at a paw, limp, shake their head, scratch at an ear, squint, blink excessively, sneeze, cough, gag or vomit. Eye injuries are considered a veterinary emergency because they can lead to permanent damage or even the loss of the eye if left untreated. Foxtails can also become lodged in a pet's mouth or throat and many owners don't realize their pet has picked one up until it begins frantically eating grass or other objects in an attempt to relieve the irritation. Unfortunately, that often makes the problem worse by introducing more grass awns into the mouth or throat. The problem is more common than many people realize, so veterinarians recommend checking pets thoroughly after walks, especially around the ears, paws, between the toes, eyes and mouth. Regular grooming can also make it easier to spot foxtails before they become embedded. If you suspect your pet has a foxtail, it's important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Attempting to remove one yourself can cause it to break apart or become lodged even deeper. Property owners can also help reduce the spread by removing foxtails before they go to seed. Rather than cutting them with a weed trimmer, experts recommend pulling the plants by hand and disposing of them in the garbage.

Open to dancers from all disciplines and training backgrounds, the technique classes will run Tuesdays from September through March at the Warman Home Centre Communiplex. Class A, for ages six to 11, will run from 6 to 7 p.m., while Class B, for ages 12 to 18, will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. Organizers note that class sizes are limited to allow for personalized instruction and individual feedback. The school is also offering a pair of registration incentives this year, which include beginner dancers ages three to eight will receive either a new Postmark Ukraine bodysuit or a gift card toward a new pair of dance shoes when they register and families who register before July 31 will also be entered into an early bird draw to win SSUD merchandise and two adult tickets to the school's annual Mock Wedding event. Those interested in learning more or registering can visit ssud.weebly.com or scan the QR code on the posters provided. Updates and additional information can also be found on Facebook and on Instagram.

Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability Program Improvements

Starting September 1, 2026, improvements to the Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability (SAID) program will expand and restructure the Living Income Benefit and modernize and simplify the overly complex program. SAID clients will see an increase or no change to their overall benefits because of these changes. “I am pleased to announce that 40 per cent of SAID clients will see an increase in their benefits, making life more affordable for 7,200 families and individuals across Saskatchewan,” Social Services Minister Terry Jenson said. “These improvements to the SAID program will make it easier, faster and more convenient for clients to access their benefits, and no current clients will see a reduction in their benefits as a result of these improvements." Effective September 1, improvements to the SAID program will: • move several standalone benefits that currently require client documentation into the core Living Income benefit, increasing flexibility for clients who live independently to spend their income on daily needs as they choose; • restructure the Living Income benefit by consolidating the number of family and community benefit tiers, resulting in higher monthly benefits for many families and people living in rural areas; and, • removing benefits that are underutilized or provided in other ministries or programs modernizes SAID. No current SAID clients will see a reduction in their benefits. In cases where a change could result in a lower benefit amount, the client’s current benefit level will be maintained. Beginning this month, the ministry is contacting all clients and engaging with partners and community-based organizations across Saskatchewan to explain the changes prior to implementation on September 1. The ministry began reviewing SAID in 2025, with the goal of making the program easier for over 18,000 clients to navigate and simpler to understand. Improvements being implemented were developed from SAID clients using feedback and through discussions with community-based organizations.

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Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce Seeks New Executive Director Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

The Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce (PSCC) is preparing for a leadership transition as Executive Director Angela Steiert has announced she will be stepping down from her role after three years with the organization. “ W h i l e we are sad to see her go, and grateful for everything she has done for our Chamber, our members, and our community, we wish her all the best in this new chapter,” the PSCC noted in a shared statement. As the organization looks to the future, it has begun the search for a new Executive Director to build on the strong foundation established by Steiert. The successful candidate will work closely with the Board of Directors, oversee the Chamber's daily operations, foster relationships with members and community partners, and help deliver programs, events, and initiatives that support a thriving local business community. The Chamber is seeking a collaborative, community-minded leader with strong communication, organizational, and relationship-building skills who is passionate about supporting local businesses across the region. Those interested in the position can request the full job description and application details by emailing admin@prairieskychamber.ca. The Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce is also encouraging members of the community to share the opportunity with anyone who may be a good fit for the role.

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MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - JULY 16, 2026 - Page 5

New Businesses in 2026 Expand Recreation, Wellness and Learning Opportunities in Sask Parks

Visitors to Saskatchewan Provincial Parks can now enjoy even more ways to relax, reconnect and discover the outdoors. New business partnerships in our provincial parks offer unique experiences ranging from lakeside yoga and Pilates to sauna retreats, birding excursions, paddleboarding adventures and night-sky photography workshops. "Spending time in nature is an excellent way to recharge the mind and body," Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Alana Ross said. "These new partnerships allow us to expand our park offerings, enhancing the visitor experience and helping people further enjoy the solace and natural beauty of our provincial parks." As Saskatchewan residents plan their summer adventures, provincial parks continue to offer new opportunities to connect with local businesses and experience the outdoors in different ways. The following operators are introducing new services and activities in parks across the province: Wellness and Relaxation • Outdoor Yoga: Enjoy mindfulness and movement with classes offered by Cheryl Kish Yoga (Blackstrap Provincial Park), Moody Moon Yoga (Pike Lake Provincial Park) and Yoga RRPP (Rowan's Ravine Provincial Park). • Pilates: Improve strength and flexibility with outdoor classes from In-Spire Pilates & Re.Fresh (Candle Lake Provincial Park). • Sauna and Cold-Water Wellness: Unwind with sauna sessions and cold plunges offered by Lugn & Company Wellness (Rowan's Ravine Provincial Park) and Riverside Saunas (Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park). • Concessions: Stay hydrated with water and ice services from Moose Mountain Water & Ice, now expanded to Echo Valley Provincial Park. Outdoor Adventure • Canoe Polo: Learn a new water sport through beginner-friendly sessions with the Saskatoon Gophers Canoe Polo Club (Blackstrap Provincial Park). • Adventure Fitness: Get active with personalized coaching and adventurebased fitness experiences from Red Goat Excursions (Buffalo Pound Provincial Park). • Inflatable Rentals: Experience outdoor obstacle courses and slides with Truly Canadian Outdoor Adventures & Rentals (Good Spirit Lake Provincial Park). Nature and Education • Astronomy and Photography: Discover the night sky through photography workshops and astronomy programs offered by Seven Skies Astronomy (Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park). • Guided Nature Tours: Explore local landscapes through birding, wildlife observation and ecology tours led by The Wild View Tours (Buffalo Pound and Echo Valley Provincial Parks). These new partnerships add to the wide range of recreational, educational and wellness experiences already available in Saskatchewan Provincial Parks. From outdoor adventure and nature appreciation to health and wellness programming, visitors can find a variety of ways to experience Saskatchewan's parks. More information is available at: saskparks.com.

ABOVE: Congratulations to the 15UAAA Giants on winning gold at the Evan Thomas Memorial Tournament this past weekend. (Sask Five Giants Baseball Association)

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Page 6 - JULY 16, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

SaskEnergy Brings Back Free Furnace Replacement Program for Eligible Homeowners

SaskEnergy is once again providing qualifying homeowners with a free furnace upgrade through its Heating Affordability Program (HAP). The program, which launched in 2025, is designed to help income-qualified homeowners replace their low efficiency furnace with a high-efficiency model, free of charge. By upgrading to high-efficiency equipment, participants can save up to $650 annually on natural gas and electricity costs. “For customers facing financial barriers, replacing an aging, low-efficiency furnace is not always an option. With HAP, SaskEnergy is able to help alleviate that concern and lower their monthly bills,” said Cory Frei, SaskEnergy Interim President and Chief Executive Officer. “The new, high-efficiency equipment is safer, more reliable and more efficient — saving customers money and bringing them peace of mind during the cold winter months knowing they can rely on their furnace when they need it most.” In order to be selected for HAP, participants must first take part in the SaskPower Energy Assistance Program (EAP). Qualifying participants will be sent an invitation to apply for HAP and must meet HAP’s requirements for income level and existing heating equipment criteria. Since the program was launched, 37 qualifying applicants have received a free furnace replacement. The goal for the 2026-27 program year is to replace up to 50 furnaces. Furnace replacements will be completed through SaskEnergy’s Network Members. Each upgrade will include a 96% annual fuel utilization efficiency single stage natural gas furnace, required modifications to the home’s venting, three furnace filters and, if required, a programmable thermostat. Visit www.saskenergy.com/ways-save to learn more about the Heating Affordability Program and SaskEnergy’s other energy efficiency and rebate programs.

Saskatchewan Highways Construction Update Includes Bridge Work Near Saskatoon, Paving South of Humboldt and Overpass Construction at Moose Jaw

On June 10th, Highways Minister Kim Gartner reminded motorists to be vigilant when approaching work zones as construction season continues moving forward to maintain and improve Saskatchewan's transportation network. "We want everyone to get home safely, please slow down and be alert when approaching work zones and obey all signage and flag persons," Gartner said. "Remember, the outcome of each construction season benefits all motorists by enhancing highways to keep our province moving and support Saskatchewan's exportbased economy." Some highlights of recent and ongoing provincial highways projects include: Highway 7 near Saskatoon - An estimated $7.1 million rehabilitation of a Highway 7 eastbound bridge over railway tracks west of the city began in April. The work is needed as the 1960s eastbound bridge is nearing the end of its service life. To accommodate the project, traffic is now diverted to the westbound bridge built in the 1990s over the rail lines. Recent work includes demolition of the existing eastbound bridge deck with a scaffolding and platform in place for workers and to prevent debris from getting on the railway tracks below. Other work will include repairing the bridge abutment and piers. The project is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Trans-Canada Yellowhead Highway 16 south of Humboldt - An estimated $10.4 million project to repave about 24 km of Highway 16 near Lanigan began in the spring of 2025. The project was completed in June and provides a smoother drive for motorists and improves a key inter-provincial route. Highway 2 over Trans-Canada Highway 1 at Moose Jaw - An estimated $33.7 million overpass project that began in 2025 to raise the height of Highway 2 over Highway 1 at Moose Jaw is now into its second year of construction and expected to be completed by the end of 2026. Highway 1 is key trade corridor connecting Saskatchewan to the west coast and Canada. All projects are subject to weather and drivers are encouraged to check the Highway Hotline at https://hotline.gov.sk.ca/map for the latest available information about ongoing provincial road construction to plan their routes. The Highway Hotline also provides information about closures related to fires, flooding or other incidents, along with the status of ferries. To learn more about the Highway Hotline's various points of access for information, visit: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/transportation/highways/ highway-hotline With this year's budget, the Government of Saskatchewan has invested more than $14.6 billion in transportation infrastructure since 2008, improving more than 22,700 kilometres of highways across the province.

50-year Roughriders fan scores top prize on Rider Nation ticket Mark Keulen found his way to the endzone to pick up the major prize of $75,000 on the Rider Nation Scratch & Win ticket. “I was in disbelief,” said the Regina resident. “I sat there checking the ticket over and over again. I looked at it six or seven times after putting on my glasses and I still couldn’t believe my eyes!” The $7 Rider Nation ticket, which launched May 12, features multiple types of prizes, including Saskatchewan Roughriders autographed jerseys and footballs, ten-year season ticket packages, suite experiences, cash prizes and more. With his win, Keulen becomes the first person to capture one of two of the ticket’s top prize of $75,000, but it’s not the first time he’s claimed a prize on the ticket. “The cashier at Northland Confectionary & Groceries really promoted the ticket to me. I started playing and won $50. I was extremely shocked and happy with that amount because I never win anything.” From that point on, Keulen continued to purchase the Rider Nation ticket, always from the same Lotto Spot retailer —including the $75,000 winner— but it wasn’t just the prizes that kept Keulen coming back or why he bought the ticket in the first place. “I like that purchasing the ticket supports Saskatchewan.” Like all Lotto Spot products sold in Saskatchewan, proceeds from the sale of the Rider Nation ticket are directed to more than 12,000 sport, culture and recreation organizations in communities across the province through Sask Lotteries. The ticket also celebrates the 30-year partnership between Sask Lotteries and the 2025 champion Saskatchewan Roughriders; another selling point for Keulen, who’s been watching the team since 1976. “I remember watching the Grey Cup that year. I had to go over to the neighbours to watch it because we just had a little television at the time and they had a 26-inch coloured television.” That Grey Cup didn’t end in celebration for Keulen, but he gets to celebrate a big win now and already has plans for his windfall. “I’m going to gift some to family, do some home renovations and I would like to do some travelling.” The Rider Nation ticket is available at Lotto Sport retailers and only in Saskatchewan! Learn about lottery beneficiaries, as well as games, jackpots, winning numbers and more at sasklotteries.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.

MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - JULY 16, 2026 - Page 7

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Impaired Driver Arrested After Sawed-Off Shotgun Found During Traffic Stop

A traffic stop near the Patience Lake mine has resulted in multiple firearms charges after police allegedly discovered a prohibited weapon inside a vehicle driven by an impaired driver. At approximately 1:20pm on July 11th, members of the Corman Park Police Service (CPPS), along with the Saskatoon RCMP, responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle near the Patience Lake mine. Police located the vehicle stopped off Highway 5 and began an investigation. During the traffic stop, officers determined the driver was impaired by drugs after the individual performed poorly on a Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST). A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the seizure of a sawed-off 12-gauge shotgun. According to police, the accused was prohibited from possessing firearms under court-ordered conditions. The individual was arrested and remanded into custody, where they are expected to face multiple firearms-related charges. In addition to the criminal charges, the driver's licence was suspended for operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs, and the vehicle was impounded.

Saskatchewan RCMP Warn Public of Text Message Scam

Saskatchewan RCMP are investigating following multiple reports of a text message scam targeting members of the public. On June 29, 2026, Battlefords RCMP received complaints of fraudulent text messages claiming recipients had an outstanding traffic citation. The messages directed individuals to click a link and submit payment online, falsely identifying the sender as the Provincial Court of Saskatchewan. Officers have noted the messages originated from a phone number using a “+21” area code. Please note that these messages are not legitimate. Saskatchewan RCMP advise the public not to click on any links provided in these messages and not to send payment or personal information. We encourage the public to take the following steps if they receive text messages from a scammer; don’t text the scammer back, block their phone number immediately, don’t send them any money or gift cards and keep records of the texts. Saskatchewan RCMP continue to investigate. If you are unsure of the legitimacy of a text message or believe you are the victim of a fraud, please contact your local RCMP detachment at 310-RCMP. If you receive a text message that you believe to be a scam or fraudulent, you can report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. You can report by phone (Toll free: 1-888-495-8501) or online here: https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/report-signalez-eng. htm.

Saskatchewan RCMP Seize Firearms and Drugs in Tisdale Investigation

Saskatchewan RCMP charged a male after seizing firearms and illicit drugs in Tisdale, SK. On July 9, 2026, police officers with Saskatchewan RCMP’s Prince Albert Crime Reduction Team, Prince Albert Police Services’ Crime Reduction Team, and Tisdale RCMP Detachment executed a search warrant at a property on 102nd Street in Tisdale, SK as part of an investigation. During a search of the residence and a vehicle, officers located and seized: 56 grams of fentanyl; 3.5 grams of methamphetamine and 2 grams cocaine; scales, packaging materials and cellphones; a large sum of cash; three firearms, two of which were loaded; and eight imitation firearms. An adult male was arrested at the residence. As a result of investigation, 35-year-old Craig Patterson of Tisdale is charged with: one count, unauthorized possession of a firearm, Section 91(1), Criminal Code; three counts, storage of a prohibited firearm in a careless manner, Section 86(1) of the Criminal Code; two counts, possession of a weapon obtained by crime, Section 96(1), Criminal Code; one count, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, Section 354(1)(a), Criminal Code; one count, possession for the purpose of trafficking (fentanyl), Section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act; one count, possession for the purpose of trafficking (methamphetamine), Section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act; and one count, possession for the purpose of trafficking (cocaine), Section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Craig Patterson is scheduled to appear in Melfort Provincial Court on July 13, 2026 (Information #90528336).

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