June 4, 2026 Digital Issue

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Your City; Your Newspaper June 4, 2026

VOLUME NO. 20 - ISSUE 24

Re-roofs New Construction Residential Commercial

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Over 14 Years Making Your Real Estate Dreams Come True!

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Paws, People, and a Purpose

Participants and their four-legged companions make their way along the trail in Kinsmen Park during the Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides on May 31st. The annual fundraiser began at Lions Park, traveled to Kinsmen Park for a stop at Cones where people and their pets could enjoy a treat, and returned to Lions Park for a BBQ. See more on page 3.

Because We Care

591 Centennial Drive North - Martensville

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Page 2 - JUNE 4, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Centennial Drive North Upgrade Project The City of Martensville has started work on Phase 1 of the Centennial Drive North Upgrade Project, beginning on May 22nd, 2026, with a projected end date of September 1st, 2026. This key infrastructure investment was identified as a priority in the City’s 2026 Budget with partial funding provided through the Canada Community-Building Fund Program.

This project will update a section of Centennial Drive North by replacing aging roadway infrastructure, improving storm drainage capacity, and enhancing safety and accessibility for motorists, pedestrians, nearby residents, and local businesses. During construction, road closures and temporary access routes will be in place to help maintain access for residents, businesses, and emergency services while work is underway.

Schedule & Temporary Access Road Full mobilization and water drainage work on the west side of Centennial Drive began on May 22nd, 2026. This phase of work does not require any road closures or traffic detours.

Access to businesses from Centennial Drive will be maintained throughout this work.

As of June 1st, 2026, a section of Centennial Drive is closed, and a detour plan has been implemented. Access to businesses adjacent to the Centennial Drive North project area will be maintained via the temporary roadway (illustrated in red) and will be available from the north (heading south) direction only.

The project is projected to be completed by September 1st, 2026. The construction schedule is dependent on favourable weather and site conditions, and dates or timelines may be adjusted in the event of delays. To help maintain the project schedule, crews will also be working on alternating Saturdays throughout construction. No work will take place on Sundays.

Project Benefits Safer and more accessible pedestrian connections, including sidewalks and a future crosswalk.

Improved and more durable roadway Supports future commercial development on both sides of the road Better traffic flow and access for motorists (5 lanes wide and a center turning lane) Upgraded storm drainage infrastructure including catch basins and curbing We appreciate the patience and cooperation of residents, businesses, and motorists as this important infrastructure project progresses. Please continue to follow all posted signage, detour routes, and traffic control measures to help ensure the safety of workers and the public throughout the construction period.

For additional information and project updates, please visit the Current Roadwork Projects page on Martensville.ca, or scan the QR code.

Businesses Remain Open as Centennial Drive North Construction Continues Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Construction work on the Centennial Drive North Upgrade Project is now underway, bringing traffic changes to one of Martensville's busiest commercial corridors while businesses in the area work to maintain access for customers.

As of June 1st, Centennial Drive North from 3rd Street North to approximately the 500 block of Centennial Drive North closed to traffic as part of the City's infrastructure improvement project. While the closure has altered normal traffic patterns, businesses along the corridor remain open and accessible through a temporary access route established from the north end of Centennial Drive.

Among the affected businesses is Martensville Collective Health and Wellness, which has been reminding clients that the clinic remains open throughout the construction. The clinic noted that access is currently available from the north only and that a portion of its parking lot is being used as an entrance to the temporary roadway serving other businesses in the area. Client parking is available inside the fenced area along the south side of the property.

Smokehaus Meats shared a notice to the public encouraging them to continue to support the business through their busiest season of the year, and that the staff parking area located within the back of the store will now be available for customers, along with parking available along the south fence.

Access to businesses is provided from the north, going through the parking lots of Martensville Collective Health & Wellness, Martensville Plumbing & Heating, Offroad Exteriors, K&M Classics and Smokehaus Meats.

The City has encouraged motorists to follow all posted detour and directional signage while travelling through the construction zone. Updates on the project are expected to continue throughout the summer.

The Centennial Drive North Upgrade Project is expected to continue to September, with temporary access routes in place to ensure businesses remain reachable during construction. Be sure to continue to support our local businesses during this time, as they rely on community support to continue to be successful and continue to give their support back into the community.

Martensville Aquatic Centre Opens for the Summer Season Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Residents can officially dive into summer as the Martensville Aquatic Centre opened for the 2026 season on June 1st.

Located at 927 3rd Street North, the popular outdoor facility offers a variety of amenities and programs designed to help families stay active and cool throughout the summer months.

The Aquatic Centre features a 25-metre, five-lane swimming pool, a zerodepth entry area and kiddie pool, as well as three water slides: the Junior Racer, Double Loop, and Kids Slide. Visitors can also enjoy a spacious deck area and on-site concession during their visit.

Throughout the summer, the facility will host public swimming, swimming lessons, lane swimming, Aqua-Fit classes, and a variety of recreational programming for residents of all ages.

Children five years of age and younger receive free admission but must be accompanied in the water by a caregiver who is at least 16 years old. All individuals entering the facility are required to pay admission, regardless of whether they plan to enter the water.

For the 2026 season, single admission rates are $6.00 for youth ages 6 to 18, $11.00 for adults ages 19 to 54, and $7.25 for seniors aged 55 and older. Family admission is available for $28.00. Season passes and 10-pass packs are also available.

City officials are encouraging residents to visit the Aquatic Centre this summer for swimming, lessons, fitness programming, and family recreation. Information regarding schedules, admission fees, pool rules, and rental opportunities can be found on the City of Martensville website under the Parks and Recreation's Outdoor Recreation Facilities section.

MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - JUNE 4, 2026 - Page 3

Council Approves Tax Incentives for Two Commercial Development Projects Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Martensville City Council approved amendments to the City's Economic Development Tax Exemption Bylaw during their June 2nd meeting, paving the way for tax incentives supporting two significant commercial development projects.

Council gave all three readings to Bylaw 11-2026, amending the Economic Development Tax Exemption Bylaw to add new tax exemption agreements for Doctors Vision Care Realty, Innovations and Investments Inc. and Aligned Chiropractic & Wellness.

The first project involves a major expansion and redevelopment of the existing commercial property at 101 Centennial Drive South. Administration reported that the project will expand the building from approximately 6,400 square feet to 9,900 square feet through the addition of a 3,500-square-foot expansion. The redeveloped site will accommodate Doctors Vision Care, Molly's Spa, Sask Audiology, and additional commercial tenants. According to information provided within the report, the developer is seeking tenancy of a restaurant and hair salon, or suitable alternative tenants. The total investment is estimated at approximately $1.7 million.

According to the report, the project qualified for a three-year property tax exemption on new assessable improvements under the City's Economic Development Business Incentive Bylaw. Construction is expected to begin in the coming months, with completion anticipated by December 2026.

Council also approved a three-year tax exemption for a new development proposed by Aligned Chiropractic and Wellness and DIYxe. The project includes the construction of a new 5,000-square-foot building at 830 Centennial Drive North. Approximately 3,900 square feet will be dedicated to health and wellness services, while the remaining space will support DIYxe's manufacturing and operational needs.

Administration noted that Aligned Chiropractic and Wellness has operated in Martensville since 2020, while DIYxe was established as a home-based business in 2018.

The new facility is intended to support the growth of both businesses and improve access to local health and wellness services. Future plans also include a potential second phase expansion consisting of an additional 3,000 to 4,000 square feet of commercial space.

Council also received the City's first-quarter budget variance report for the period ending March 31, 2026.

Administration reported that no material variances had been identified that would result in an operating deficit at year-end.

The report noted that additional human resources consulting costs were being offset by savings resulting from a vacant HR Manager position.

Administration also advised that snow removal costs may exceed budget expectations depending on weather conditions later in the year, but any year-end deficit in that area could be funded through the Road Maintenance Reserve if necessary.

Council will meet again on Tuesday, June 9th for their monthly Committee of the Whole meeting in Council Chambers at City Hall. For more information about Council, or to view meeting agendas, visit Martensville.ca.

ABOVE: Council approved a three-year tax exemption for the proposed $1.7 million redevelopment of 101 Centennial Drive South. The project will add 3,500 square feet to the existing building and accommodate Doctors Vision Care, Molly’s Spa, Sask Audiology, and future commercial tenants.

Community Supports Annual Walk for Dog Guides Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

The Martensville and District Lions Club, alongside the Saskatoon Lions Club, welcomed community members to the annual Walk for Dog Guides on May 31st in Martensville.

The annual fundraiser helps provide highly trained Dog Guides to individuals living with visual impairments, autism, seizures, medical conditions, and other disabilities. Service dogs can cost between $35,000 and more than $50,000 to raise and train, but are provided to qualifying recipients at no cost thanks to fundraising efforts and community support.

This year's event also paid tribute to longtime Lions Club member Doug Ward, who passed away on the morning of last year's walk. Ward was passionate about the annual fundraiser and played a key role in its continued success locally. In his honour, this year's event, along with future walks, was designated as the 'Walk for Doug.'

Participants gathered at Lions Park before taking part in a marked walk to Kinsmen Park to enjoy a treat from Cones, as well as hydration stations and pup cups for the furry participants. Walkers of all ages, accompanied by their canine companions, enjoyed the scenic route

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ARTENSVILLE

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before returning to Lions Park for a community barbecue.

The event brought together supporters from across the community to raise awareness and funds for Dog Guide programs while celebrating the important role service dogs play in the lives of Canadians. In total this year’s participants included 45 dogs, 145 people and the event raised approximately $26,000 to go towards helping local residents recieve a life-altering Dog Guide at no cost.

Page 4 - JUNE 4, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Teachers Bring the Fun to Track and Field Day

Families Invited to Adopt a Wild Rubber Duck During Buster Days Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Students cheered from the sidelines as Valley Manor School teachers raced across the field in inflatable costumes during the school's annual Track and Field Day. The lighthearted event provided plenty of laughs and excitement, making it a memorable highlight of the day for students and staff alike.

Families attending Buster Days this weekend will have the opportunity to give a special visitor a home during the City's Wild Rubber Duck Adoption Event at the Martensville Aquatic Centre.

The event will take place on Sunday, June 7th, from 9:30am to 11:30am and features Muddles the rubber duck, who recently discovered she wasn't the only wild rubber duck floating through local waterways.

According to the story, Muddles met several other wild rubber ducks during a recent adventure and learned that even more ducks were making their way downstream in search of a place to belong. To help these traveling ducks find loving homes, the City is inviting families to stop by the Aquatic Centre and adopt one of the visiting wild rubber ducks.

Each child who adopts a duck will receive their very own rubber duck, along with an adoption certificate and a care manual to help them look after their new companion throughout the summer.

Following the adoption event, families are encouraged to take their newly adopted ducks for a swim at the pool. Regular admission rates to the Martensville Aquatic Centre will apply; however, there is no cost to adopt a rubber duck.

The Wild Rubber Duck Adoption Event is one of many family-friendly activities taking place throughout Buster Days weekend and offers children a fun and memorable way to celebrate the community event.

Early Years Family Resource Centre Offers Full Month of Family Programming in June Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - JUNE 4, 2026 - Page 5

Snowbirds Alumni Association Launches “No Pause - Keep The Snowbirds Flying” Campaign

The Snowbirds Alumni Association today announced the launch of the “No Pause - Keep the Snowbirds Flying” campaign, a national initiative advocating for the continued operation of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds while awaiting transition to a new aircraft platform.

The campaign follows the recent announcement by the Government of Canada and the Royal Canadian Air Force that Snowbird operations will pause at the end of 2026 following the retirement of the CT-114 Tutor fleet.

The Association acknowledges the significant operational pressures facing the Canadian Armed Forces, including personnel shortages and the long-term challenge of sustaining the ageing Tutor aircraft. However, it believes viable transitional options exist that would allow the Snowbirds to continue flying in a reduced capacity while preserving the specialized expertise and national outreach role that the team uniquely provides. The Snowbirds Alumni Association recommends that the RCAF consider partnering with the aerospace industry and also use reservists with previous Snowbird experience to permit a number of pilots and technicians currently on the squadron to be assigned to other fleets that need experienced personnel.

The Association points to the recent precedent established by the Royal Air Force’s Red Arrows which announced a temporary reduction from a nine-aircraft display to a seven-aircraft formation in order to facilitate its own operational transition and personnel requirements through the 2030 airshow season, thus maintaining continuity of operations and public engagement.

“The RAF Red Arrows have demonstrated that it is possible to adapt during periods of transition without grounding an iconic national team entirely,” said LCol (Ret’d) Darryl Shyiak, Board Chair of the Snowbirds Alumni Association and former Commanding Officer and Team Leader of 431 (Air Demonstration) Squadron. “The ‘No Pause - Keep the Snowbirds Flying’ campaign is about encouraging Canadian decision-makers to explore practical transitional solutions that preserve the operational knowledge, public connection, and inspirational value the Snowbirds provide to Canadians.”

For more than 55 years, the Snowbirds have served as ambassadors for Canada and the Canadian Armed Forces, inspiring generations of Canadians through their worldclass display of precision, teamwork, and professionalism. The team has performed for more than 150 million spectators across North America and remains one of the country’s most recognized national symbols, its members role models for the youth of Canada.

The Association wishes to recognize the highly skilled Royal Canadian Air Force technicians and 431 Squadron’s industry partners at L3 Harris, IMP Aerospace, and Magellan Aerospace whose professionalism and expertise have ensured the continued safe operation of the Tutor fleet for decades.

“Canadians can remain fully confident in the professionalism, maintenance standards, and rigorous oversight that have supported Snowbird operations safely from Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday the outset,” said LCol (Ret’d) Dan Dempsey, former Commanding Officer and Team Leader of 431 (Air Demonstration) Squadron. “The issue before us is not whether the Snowbirds should continue to inspire Canadians — it is how we ensure that their highly specialized skill sets are preserved through this transition.”

The Association believes that maintaining at least a reduced operational capability during the transition period would help preserve critical air demonstration Father’s Day Event *registered event* expertise, sustain recruiting and public outreach efforts, and ensure continuity for a 9:30-1:00 program that has become deeply woven into Canada’s national identity.

Through the “No Pause - Keep the Snowbirds Flying” campaign, the Association will engage Canadians, veterans, aviation stakeholders, community leaders, and elected officials in support of solutions that would allow the Snowbirds to continue flying on the Tutor while preparations are made for a future aircraft platform.

“The Snowbirds are far more than an aerobatic team,” added LCol (Ret’d) Maryse Carmichael, also a former Snowbirds pilot and Commanding Officer of 431 (Air Demonstration) Squadron. “They are a symbol of Canadian excellence and a living connection between Canadians and the men and women who serve their country in all three military services – navy, army and air force. We believe Canadians want the opportunity to keep looking to the skies and seeing that Notice of Intention to Consider a Proposed Development Charges inspiration continue.”

“The Snowbirds have become a shining symbol of our very nation,” Bylaw #12-2025 added General (Ret’d) Rick Hillier, former Chief of the Defence Staff, Notice of intention is hereby given by the City of Martensville, pursuant to section “uniting us in our pride and accomplishment. They are one of very few 207 of The Planning and Development Act, 2007, for City Council’s consideration of a Canadian symbols and are needed more than ever in these challenging proposed Bylaw 7-2026Development Charges Bylaw. times. Their absence from the skies would make us less.”

Families in Martensville and Warman will have plenty of opportunities to learn, play, and connect this June through a wide variety of programs offered by the Martensville-Warman Early Years Family Resource Centre (MWEYFRC).

The June calendar features programs designed for children from infancy through age five, along with support and resources for parents and caregivers. Regular offerings include Bonding Through Play sessions, Parent & Baby programming, Tummy Explorers, Sip & Chat, Quiet Nest Low Sensory programming, and a variety of handson learning opportunities.

Tummy Explorers will be offered throughout the month for infants aged 0 to 12 months and will focus on developmental milestones such as rolling, crawling, and reaching. The program also includes visits from professionals who can answer questions about child development.

Several special events are planned throughout June, including an Immunization Clinic on June 10th for children aged 0 to 5, a Dayhome Drop-In on June 17th, and a Father's Day Event on June 19th. The Father's Day celebration will include themed activities followed by a build-your-own burger lunch for dads, uncles, grandfathers, and other important male role models. Registration is required.

Children will also have opportunities to explore science, sensory play, and practical life skills through programs such as Lil' Scientists, Sensory Exploration, Water Sensory Play, Practical Life Skills, and Messy Babies. These activities are designed to encourage curiosity, learning, creativity, and developmental growth through hands-on experiences.

Parents and caregivers can take advantage of the Centre's Sip & Chat sessions, which provide childminding while participants connect with other families and hear from guest professionals. This month, presenters include representatives from the Canadian Mental Health Association, Warman Physio, language and literacy specialists, and a registered nurse and lactation consultant.

Additional programming includes Yoga for Kids at Quiet Life Studio in Warman on June 24th and a Clothing Swap on June 29th, where families can browse and take children's clothing for ages 0 to 5.

The Martensville-Warman Early Years Family Resource Centre offers free programming aimed at supporting early childhood development while providing families with opportunities to build connections and access community resources throughout the year.

For more information, visit them on social media, or at https://www. mwfamilycentre.ca/.

June

mweyfrc@ymcasaskatoon.org

Martensville-Warman Early Years Family Resource Centre martensvillewarmaneyfrc

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2 Tummy Explorers (0-12

Centre Closed for Change Around

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9 Parent & Baby (0-2)

ASQ Info 9:30-12:00

9:30-11:00

Bonding thru Play 1:30-4:00

Bonding thru Play 1:30-4:00

15 Bonding thru Play (0-5)

16 Tummy Explorers (0-12)

Lil Scientists (3-5) 2:00-3:00

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Messy babies (0 - 2.5) 9:30-11:30

Bonding thru Play 1:30-400

8 Bonding thru Play w/

9:30-12:00

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mos) with a Nutritionist 9:30-11:00

with L.C Brenda Corman 9:30-11:00

Bonding thru Play 1:30-4:00

23 Tummy Explorers (0-12

Immunization Clinic 9:15-11:15

12 Quiet Nest Low Sensory (0-2.5) 9:30-12:00

Lil taste buds 1:30-3:00

Sip & Chat with w/ Delaney Language and Literacy 9:30-11:00

25 Sip & Chat with Michele

Bonding thru Play 1:30-4:00

Quiet Life Studio in Warman 11:00-12:00

Practical Life Skills (3-5) 2:00-3:00

Bonding thru Play 1:30-4:00

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mos) w/ RMT & Doula Victoria 9:30-11:00

Kindermusik 0-18m: 9:30-10:30 18-36m: 11:00-12:00

Quiet Nest Low Sensory (3-5) 2:00-4:00

Physio - Potty Training 9:30-11:00

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Dayhome Drop-In 9:30-3:30

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11 Sip & Chat w/ Warman

Bonding thru Play 1:30-4:00

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Sip & Chat with Hannah CMHA 9:30-11:00

Lil Scientists (3-5) 2:00-3:00

Bonding thru Play 1:30-400

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Bonding thru Play/ SLP Visit 9:30-12:00 Sensory Exploration (3-5) 2:00-3:00

Clothing Swap 10:00- 3:00

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mwfamilycentre.ca

(Lactation Consultant and Nutrition) 9:30-11:00

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Parent & Baby (0-2) 9:30-11:00

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Water Sensory Play (0-5) 2:00-3:00

Centre Closed for Change Around

PURPOSE: The proposed Development Charges Bylaw is to provide for the payment of development levies and servicing agreement fees.. The purpose of development charges is to reimburse the City for the capital costs associated with new residential, commercial and industrial developments within the City.

EXAMINATION OF BYLAW: This bylaw may be examined by interested persons at City Hall on any judicial day between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Copies of the Bylaw and Notice are available at the cost of $1.00.

PUBLIC HEARING: Council will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. at the City of Martensville Council Chambers, located at 37 Centennial Drive South, to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaw.

Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the City Hall prior to June 9, 2026.

Dated at Martensville this May 27, 2026.

Bonnie Gorelitza Planning Manager

Page 6 - JUNE 4, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Province Cracks Down on Drug Traffickers to Protect Saskatchewan Communities The Response to Illicit Drugs Act came into force on June 1st in Saskatchewan.

The Act strengthens the province's ability to respond to the harms caused by illicit drug production and trafficking. It establishes new legal tools that allow government and individuals harmed by illicit drug activity to recover costs from those involved in the production, trafficking, importing or exporting of highly addictive drugs.

"Drug traffickers cause real and lasting harm to individuals, families and communities across Saskatchewan," Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod, K.C. said. "By bringing this Act into force, the Government of Saskatchewan is ensuring that those who profit from trafficking deadly substances face meaningful consequences for the damage they cause. At the same time, our government continues to address mental health and addictions through expanded treatment and recovery supports."

The Act also allows the province to void certain appointments, grants and agreements if an individual or entity is convicted of specified Schedule I drug offences under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Schedule I substances include fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, morphine, codeine and other highly addictive drugs.

These provisions give government discretion to determine an appropriate response in each case.

The Act also creates a civil cause of action to allow individuals or government to bring a claim against anyone who has caused harm through illicit drug activities.

The legislation does not apply to simple possession offences.

Bringing the legislation into force builds on Saskatchewan's broader approach to addressing addictions and public safety. In 2026-27, the Government of Saskatchewan, in partnership with Community Safety, is investing $22.7 million to support 160 municipal police positions in nine municipalities across the province and expand enforcement capacity. The province is also providing $190,000 for small town and rural police services this fiscal year. In 2025-26, nearly $6 million was allocated to support the province's multi-year plan to add roughly 100 new frontline officers across Saskatchewan.

The 2026-27 provincial budget also delivers a record $674 million for mental health and addictions services to expand treatment capacity and continue the province's transition to a recovery-oriented system of care. More than 330 new addictions treatment spaces are now operational as part of the province's commitment to add 500 addictions treatment spaces.

Together, these measures target drug traffickers, while ensuring continued support for those struggling with addiction.

Saskatchewan Health Authority Board of Directors Approves 2026-27 Budget The Board of Directors of the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) has approved a record $5.59 billion operating budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year; an increase of 5.05 per cent over last year. In addition, a capital expenditure plan of $596.72 million has also been approved.

“The approval of the 2026-27 budget represents a significant investment toward the delivery of high-quality health care that is accessible to everyone in the province, regardless of where they live,” said Arlene Wiks, Board Chair, Saskatchewan Health Authority. “We are also committed to supporting SHA physicians, clinicians and employees, ensuring they have the tools and resources to respond to the unique needs of every patient in the province.”

“Supporting our health-care teams in delivering high-quality, safe and accessible care to patients and communities throughout the province is our priority,” said Andrew Will, Chief Executive Officer, Saskatchewan Health Authority. “The 202627 operating budget enables us to allocate resources to advance SHA Roadmap priorities that will benefit patients and communities in Saskatchewan, every day. This includes expanding access to primary care, acute care, and continuing care; increasing surgical and diagnostic volumes; making mental health and addiction services more accessible across the province; and improving facilities and equipment.”

Key allocations from the Ministry of Health towards for this year’s SHA budget, as outlined in the 2026-27 SHA Roadmap and in support of the Government of Saskatchewan’s Patients First Health Care PlanOpens in new window, include: Expanding access to care, including $24.2 million for the Saskatoon City Hospital 109-bed acute care expansion, $14.6 million for the Royal University Hospital inpatient bed expansion, $4.9 million for additional St. Paul’s Hospital inpatient beds, $9.9 million for the Saskatoon Urgent Care Centre, $2.5 million for the Regina General Hospital Neonatal ICU, $5.7 million to enhance diagnostic imaging volumes for MRIs, CTs and PET CT scans, $9.4 million to enhance access to mental health and addictions services, including additional addictions treatment spaces, and $2.56 million for enhanced continuing care.

Improving safety and quality of care through consistent standards and continuous improvement $2.4 million to enhance coordination of care through clinical pathways, $1.3 million for provincial children’s subspecialty program enhancement, $1.4 million for the central intake and navigation for mental health and addictions, Improving facilities and equipment, including $238.4 million for Prince Albert Victoria Hospital, $100 million for Regina long-term care specialized beds, $24.3 million for Grenfell long-term care and $22.1 million for La Ronge long-term care.

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.

SPSA Fire Ban Issued to Prevent Further HumanCaused Wildfires; LOBSTICK Fire Update

Due to current conditions and the extreme fire risk in the province, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) has issued a fire ban effective at noon on May 29, 2026.

The ban encompasses a large portion of central and southern Saskatchewan. In particular, the fire ban includes all Crown land, including provincial parks and regional sites, area south of: • Highway 55 at the Alberta border to junction Highway 155; • Highway 155 at junction Highway 55 to junction Highway 165; • Highway 165 at junction ABOVE: Firefighters have been working hard to protect Highway 155 to junction communities like Shellbrook and Duck Lake from the Highway 106; and LOBSTICK fire. (CRCC Wildfire Saskatchewan) • Highway 106 at junction Highway 165 to the Manitoba border.

The fire ban prohibits any open fires, controlled burns and fireworks in the District (a single incorporated municipality within the NSAD), including, but not limited to, resort subdivisions, northern settlements, and titled and leased properties within the fire ban area are included.

Additionally, the use of all All Terrain Vehicles and Utility Terrain Vehicles is hereby prohibited. However, SaskPower, peace officers and others in lawful execution of their duties, as well as bona fide licensed outfitters, may receive written exemptions from the SPSA. This does not include Rural Municipalities or Incorporated Municipalities, which require their own fire ban.

"At this time, implementing a fire ban is a necessary action reduce the risk of wildfires to residents, communities and other resources.," SPSA Vice-President of Operations Steve Roberts said. "The primary cause of wildfires at this time of the year is human activity. We are strongly reminding the public that human-caused fires are preventable."

In Saskatchewan, human-caused wildfires typically start in accessible areas near communities and roads. Simple actions like not driving a vehicle on dry grass, drowning campfires until embers are cool and talking to young children about fire safety can make an impact on the number of fires in Saskatchewan.

The SPSA encourages all other municipalities, rural municipalities and communities to examine fire risks in their area and to consider implementing consistent fire bans to prevent unwanted human-caused wildfires.

As of 11 a.m., there are 6 active wildfires in the province; 2 are contained, 3 are not contained and 1 of ongoing assessment. To date, Saskatchewan has had 74 wildfires.

LOBSTICK fire - The LOBSTICK fire was reported on May 26, 2026, at 15:10 and SPSA crews were dispatched at 15:26. It’s currently classified as not contained and is 13,000 hectares. SPSA personnel, including Type 1 and 2 crews, have been assigned to the fire, working alongside local fire departments and SPSA Emergency Response Team.

Additional resources, including heavy equipment, helicopter and air tanker support, have been actioning this fire for multiple days. Multiple dozer guards have been established and some crews continue to set up sprinkler units (i.e., value protection units).

Fire bans - Although the SPSA may restrict burning in all rural municipalities in extreme circumstances, it only restricts burning in the areas that it is responsible to manage under legislation. When this occurs it generally applies to large geographic areas with similar hazards.

The SPSA reminds residents and visitors to always be aware of when and where open burning is permitted in Saskatchewan to help prevent wildfires. Local jurisdictions are responsible for restricting burning in their area of responsibility if they pass a fire restriction bylaw. These jurisdictions tend to be the most informed about the fire risk in their area and their ability to respond to wildfires.

Make sure to check with your local authority, or the Interactive Fire Ban Map on the SPSA’s website, to see if any burning restrictions are currently in effect.

Anyone who spots a wildfire can call 1-800-667-9660, dial 9-1-1 or contact their closest SPSA Protection Area office.

People can find an interactive fire ban map, frequently asked questions, fire risk maps and fire prevention tips at saskpublicsafety.ca.

A list of fire restrictions in provincial parks and recreation sites can be found at https://saskparks.tourismsaskatchewan.com/alerts-restrictions.

Established in 2017, the SPSA is a treasury board crown corporation responsible for wildfire management, emergency management, Sask911, SaskAlert, the Civic Addressing Registry, the Provincial Disaster Assistance Program and fire safety.

MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - JUNE 4, 2026 - Page 7

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Firefighters Contain Major Structure Fires in Warman and Saskatoon Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Local firefighters were called into action Friday, May 29th as major structure fires in both Warman and Saskatoon threatened multiple homes and resulted in significant property damage.

The first incident occurred shortly after 12:00pm in Saskatoon's Hampton Village neighbourhood, where fire crews responded to a two-alarm multiple structure fire in the 400 block of Geary Crescent.

Upon arrival, firefighters encountered thick black smoke and a home fully engulfed in flames. Saskatoon Fire Department deployed two aerial units, four engines, a rescue unit, Command 9, and a total of 32 firefighters, including command staff and safety officers. Crews adopted a defensive strategy to prevent the fire from spreading further through the neighbourhood.

All occupants were able to safely evacuate before firefighters arrived, and no injuries to civilians or firefighters were reported. Despite the extensive response, the fire caused significant damage, ultimately destroying four homes and six garages while damaging approximately 20 properties throughout the area.

Later that evening, shortly after 6:00pm, Warman Fire Rescue responded to reports of a structure fire on Redwood Crescent in Warman.

Firefighters arrived to find two homes fully engulfed in flames, with strong winds driving flames estimated at nearly 50 feet high. The rapidly changing conditions caused the fire to spread to two additional homes, while burning debris ignited sections of four other rooftops and melted siding on detached garages across the alley.

Seventeen Warman firefighters responded with seven apparatus and immediately launched an aggressive attack using three master streams. Additional resources and personnel from Osler, Dalmeny, and Martensville Fire Departments were called in to assist as crews worked to contain the fast-moving blaze.

Despite the challenging conditions, firefighters successfully prevented the fire from spreading into any of the neighbouring structures. While the two initially involved homes were destroyed, crews were able to save the additional homes affected by heat and flying embers.

All residents safely evacuated and no injuries to firefighters or civilians were reported. Warman Fire Rescue indicated the fire was not considered suspicious.

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Firefighter Recruits Complete Vehicle Extrication Training

This past weekend, firefighter recruits from Martensville Fire Department and Dalmeny Fire and Rescue successfully completed a vehicle extrication course at the Regional Training Grounds.

The hands-on training provided recruits with valuable experience in the techniques and procedures used to safely extricate individuals from vehicles following collisions and other emergency situations.

The MFD extended their appreciation to Mike E. Beamish and Cody from Sea Hawk for facilitating the course and sharing their expertise with participants. Thanks were also given to Affiliated Auto Wrecking for supplying the vehicles used during the training exercises.

The course provided recruits with an opportunity to develop practical skills in a controlled environment while preparing them to respond effectively to real-world emergencies in their communities.

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