Committee of the Whole Meeting Recap – March 10. 2026
RCMP - Staff Sergeant Teniuk was in attendance to review the January and February stats with City Council. There has been a slight increase in property offences and non-offence codes, but no major concerns were raised. There are currently 6 vacancies within the detachment, but the detachment is stable. Staff Sergeant Teniuk also presented a 5 Year Occurrence Statistics Summary from 2021-2025. Over that time there has been a 75% change in persons offences and 22% change in property offences. It was noted that as communities grow there is a change in trends.
Lake Vista 2 Concept Plan Presentation - Maggie Schwab with Schwab Planning Solutions, Daryl Altman with North Ridge Development Corporation and Phil Schilling and Chad Carruthers with Catterall & Wright were in attendance to present the Lake Vista 2 Concept Plan. The land size of the development is 60.17 ha with 44.25 ha designated as developable area. There are three properties, each individually owned, within the plan area. The proposed land uses are Residential and Community Service. Approximately 3,964 people will live within the estimated 1,662 housing units. The full development is proposed to be done in 18 Phases with Phase 1 to begin once the concept plan has been adopted into the Official Community Plan.
Lake Vista 2 Concept Plan – North Ridge Development Corporation has developed the Lake Vista II Concept Plan for the future development of 167 acres of land north of Lake Vista I. The Concept Plan proposes 1,662 dwelling units, which could accommodate an estimated population of 3,964 people. Within the development they propose interconnected walking paths, strategically placed tot lot parks and a sports field.
The next step in the application is to amend the Official Community Plan (OCP) to adopt the Concept Plan. Administration has reviewed the Concept Plan and background reports. The proposed plan aligns with the OCP and meets the Development Standards Manual requirements. Administration is recommending bringing forward a bylaw to amend the Official Community Plan to incorporate the Lake Vista II Concept Plan.
Organics / Green Bin Program & Pick-Up Schedule
The City of Martensville offers an Organics (Green Bin) Program in partnership with Loraas Organics. This program is available to residents through a subscription service.
Green Bin collection runs from May through the end of October, with bi-weekly pickups scheduled on Tuesdays. Collection alternates between North and South Martensville throughout the season. Residents can view the full collection schedule at Martensville.ca.
For more information about the program or to sign up for the Green Bin service, please contact the Utility Clerk at City Hall.
Spring Program Registration – Now Open
Registration for the City of Martensville’s Spring Recreation Programs is now open.
This season features a variety of programs for all ages, including new offerings like Disc Golf and Archery for both youth and adults. Whether you’re looking to learn something new, stay active, or try a unique outdoor activity, there’s something for everyone this spring.
Residents can browse the Spring Program Guide and register online at Martensville.ca > Recreation Program Guides.
If you have any questions about programs, events, or need assistance with your registration account, please contact the Recreation Department at 306-683-5576 ext. 0.
New BGC Early Learning Centre Opens at Martensville Recreation Centre
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Families in Martensville now have greater access to licensed childcare following the opening of the BGC Martensville Early Learning Centre inside the Martensville Recreation Centre.
Operated by BGC Saskatoon, the new facility was created to help address the growing demand for childcare spaces in the community while providing families with a convenient option located within one of the city’s major recreation and community hubs.
The centre has the capacity to provide 90 licensed childcare spaces for children ranging in age from six weeks to six years old, offering full-day programming during weekdays from 7:00am to 6:00pm.
Martensville has experienced steady population growth in recent years, increasing the demand for accessible childcare services for local families. The addition of the Early Learning Centre is expected to help reduce wait times and expand childcare availability in the city.
The project was approved by Martensville City Council following a discretionary use application and public hearing in 2025, paving the way for the program to operate within the Martensville Recreation Centre.
The centre operates under BGC Saskatoon, a non-profit organization that has provided programs and services to children and youth in the region for more than 50 years.
Programming at the Early Learning Centre follows Saskatchewan’s Play and Exploration curriculum, which focuses on play-based learning and development. The approach encourages children to build independence, curiosity, and social skills while learning through guided activities and exploration.
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.
April 7 - Regular Council Meeting
April 21 - Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 5 - Regular Council Meeting
Location: Martensville City Hall Council Chambers, 37 Centennial Drive
Time: All meetings begin at 5 pm
If you’d like to speak or present at a meeting, make sure you’re on the agenda by contacting the City Clerk’s office. If you’d prefer to join from the comfort of your home, contact the City Clerk or check the online agenda at martensville.ca for the meeting link.
Upcoming Events
City Events
Mar 19 | Play & Learn w/ Mobile Early Learning – Library
Mar 20 – 21 | Year-End Open Bonspiel – Martensville Curling Club
Mar 29 | Skate Martensville Annual Ice Show - MRC
Spring Thaw and Runoff
With warmer temperatures arriving, City crews will be working to ensure streets, catch basins, drainageways, and culverts remain clear so water from the spring melt can drain properly and not back up onto roads or properties.
During the spring thaw, residents are encouraged to limit the use of back lanes, which serve as secondary access to properties. Heavy or repeated vehicle use in wet conditions can cause rutting, reduce drainage, and delay maintenance, as additional time and materials are required for crews to reshape lanes.
Residents with back lanes can also help ensure proper drainage during the spring melt by checking along rear fence lines and property boundaries and removing any debris or materials that could slow water flow or cause pooling.
A rapid melt may also lead to water seeping into basements or collecting on properties. Tips on how to protect your property during the spring thaw are available at Martensville.ca under Services for Residents > Water & Sewer > Drainage & Elevations
As temperatures continue to warm, potholes may begin to form. Permanent pothole repairs can only be completed when temperatures are suitable for the work. In the meantime, City crews will temporarily fill potholes with gravel.
To report a pothole, please call City Hall at (306) 931-2166, or report the issue online at Martensville.ca using the Report an Issue feature.
Martensville Community Guide 2026 – Coming Soon
In the coming weeks, residents can look forward to the release of the new Martensville Community Guide — a comprehensive resource for everything happening in our community!
The Guide features helpful information about City services, programs, facilities, community organizations, events, and contacts, all in one convenient publication. Printed copies will be available at local businesses and City facilities throughout Martensville. Please note that the Guide will not be mailed directly to households this year
The facility is staffed by a team of early childhood educators, nutrition specialists, and program staff who work together to provide a supportive learning environment for young children.
In addition to increasing childcare access, the centre also brings new employment opportunities to Martensville. The facility is expected to employ 22 fulltime staff members, along with additional part-time and casual positions.
The creation of the childcare spaces was supported through the CanadaSaskatchewan Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, a provincial and federal initiative aimed at expanding regulated childcare options and reducing costs for families
With its location inside the Martensville Recreation Centre, the new Early Learning Centre is designed to become an important resource for local families, offering accessible childcare while also contributing to the city’s growing network of family-focused programs and services.
Had this been your ad, people would have noticed it. Call the Martensville Messenger and ask about our affordable advertising Ph: 306-270-6156/306-361-3040
Lake Vista 2 Development Plan Highlights Recent Martensville Council Discussions
Martensville City Council met on March 17th, to review a number of planning, bylaw, and administrative items, including amendments related to the proposed Lake Vista 2 development.
One of the key items brought forward was the first reading of a bylaw to amend the City’s Official Community Plan (OCP) to incorporate the Lake Vista 2 Concept Plan. The Lake Vista 2 Concept Plan was previously presented during the March 10th Committee of the Whole meeting, outlining the proposed development of approximately 67 hectares (166 acres) of land within Martensville’s northeast growth area.
If approved, the plan would allow for the construction of approximately 1,662 housing units, supporting an estimated population of nearly 4,000 residents.
The development was designed to include a mix of housing types such as single detached homes, semi-detached homes, townhouses, and apartment units. Plans also incorporated parks, walking paths, and a sports field, with an emphasis on walkability and neighbourhood connectivity.
The area was identified as part of Growth Area 1 in the City’s planning framework and had been under consideration for development since 2013, with earlier concept presentations made in 2016 and 2019.
City officials noted that much of the necessary infrastructure had been installed during the development of Lake Vista Phase 1, which could allow the project to move forward relatively quickly once approvals were in place.
The proposed neighbourhood design included interconnected parks, stormwater ponds integrated into open space areas, and pedestrian pathways linking to surrounding communities and amenities.
Traffic planning for the development included a proposed roundabout at the intersection of Reddekopp Drive and 10th Avenue North. Signalization at 10th Avenue and 3rd Street North was anticipated once the area reached approximately 75 percent build-out.
Future planning considerations also included emergency response access and the potential for public transit routes as the city continued to grow.
The concept plan required amendments to the Official Community Plan before development could proceed.
Infrastructure planning for Lake Vista 2 included water, wastewater, and stormwater systems designed to support long-term growth.
The existing sanitary sewer lift station serving the Lake Vista area had originally been designed with additional capacity to support both phases of development. Wastewater from the new subdivision would be conveyed through a new sanitary trunk main connected to the existing system.
Stormwater management was planned through a network of interconnected ponds designed to meet drainage standards while also functioning as open green space.
City officials indicated that infrastructure costs associated with the development would primarily be borne by developers through a master servicing agreement, consistent with the City’s policy that private developments fund their own infrastructure extensions.
Initial subdivision and zoning applications for Lake Vista 2 were expected as early as 2027, with servicing work potentially beginning in late 2027 or 2028 depending on market conditions and development phasing.
Council will meet again on April 7th at 5pm in Council Chambers at City Hall. For more information visit Martensville.ca.
Great Plains College Announces New Full-Time Continuing Care Assistant Program in Warman
Great Plains College is pleased to announce the expansion of its healthcare training options in Warman with the launch of a new full-time Continuing Care Assistant (CCA) program beginning January 2027. Building on the strong success of the parttime CCA program introduced in 2023-24, this new full-time option will provide an additional pathway for students looking to train for an in-demand career in healthcare. Applications are now open.
“Continuing Care Assistants are an essential part of the healthcare system, and the workforce demand continues to grow in communities across Saskatchewan, including Warman and the surrounding region,” said Keleah Ostrander, vice president, programs and students at Great Plains College. “The response to our part-time offering has been incredibly positive, and we’re excited to now provide a full-time option that will allow students to complete their training more quickly and begin making an impact in their communities.”
CCA students will gain comprehensive training through a blend of classroom instruction, hands-on labs and clinical placements at rural long-term care facilities in the region. Graduates will be prepared to provide compassionate care to the elderly as well as clients of all ages in a variety of care settings.
Students who apply to the full-time CCA program by October 31 will be automatically considered for an Entrance Scholarship of $500-$3,000.
The part-time CCA program will also continue to be offered, giving learners multiple pathways to complete their certificate based on their schedule and goals. Parttime courses run August-June.
To learn more about the full-time or part-time Continuing Care Assistant program or to apply, please visit greatplainscollege.ca/cca.
Kinettes’ “Paint the Town Red”
Ladies Night Fundraiser Returns
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
The Martensville and District Kinettes are inviting residents to enjoy an evening of fun while supporting local causes as their popular “Paint the Town Red” Ladies Night fundraiser returns on Saturday, April 25th.
Tickets and tables of eight are now on sale for the event, which encourages attendees to wear red and take part in an evening filled with food, dancing, games, and community spirit at the North Ridge Community Centre.
The event is designed not only as a social night out but also as an important fundraiser that allows the Kinettes to continue supporting initiatives and organizations throughout the community.
Funds raised through the event remain in the local area and are used to support a variety of programs and needs within Martensville and the surrounding region.
The Kinettes have a long history of community involvement, regularly organizing events and fundraising efforts that contribute to local projects, charities, and community programs.
Community members interested in attending the event can purchase tickets or reserve a table online. More information and ticket purchases are available on the ‘Martensville and District Kinette Club’ Facebook page.
Residents are encouraged to gather their friends, wear their best red attire, and take part in an evening aimed at supporting the community while enjoying a night out together.
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
SPORTS Party on the Pond Delivers a Weekend of Hockey and Celebration
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
Party on the Pond, one of Martensville's most significant annual gatherings, was held this past weekend at the North Ridge Community Centre with games played on the adjacent ponds. This was the 6th year for the annual 3 on 3 pond hockey event with 32 teams participating.
The games began at 6pm on Friday, March 13th and carried on through the night while players enjoyed a come and go supper in-between games. Many spectators came out to enjoy the evening despite the chilly weather. The beer gardens remained open until 11pm.
Saturday's festivities began at noon with games and beer gardens. The community spirit was very present as people enjoyed the afternoon socializing and watching the games. Players got to enjoy a pizza lunch as well as a come and go supper, along with tickets to the cabaret.
The Saturday Night Cabaret featured energetic performances and brought everyone together for an unforgettable evening.
Doors opened at 7:00pm, giving guests a chance to mingle before the show began. The local band Hard to Handle kicked off the night at 8:00pm, getting the audience into the spirit. Headliners Brock Andrews and the Rock the 90s Band kept the energy high with lively
performances and engaging the crowd of over 300 people. A late lunch was served and the cabaret continued well into the night with doors closing at 2:00am, ensuring a full evening of music and fun.
The 25 members of the Party on the Pond (POTP) Committee contributed significantly to the success of the tournament by managing ice preparation including leading up to the weekend, setup, takedown, and various other responsibilities throughout the weekend.
“I am so proud of this committee and this community. The many sponsors are local businesses who donated financially and with their time. This event is a fundraiser but also creates an opportunity to bring people together. Being one of the older people on the committee it has been great to see the amount of local younger people who were present at this event. It shows how great this event is,” said MCRP Committee Member Jesse Reis.
All proceeds from this event will go towards supporting the Martensville Community Recreation Centre (MCRP) and the continued development of recreation in the city, including efforts toward a second sheet of ice at the Martensville Recreation Centre.
This event would also not be possible without sponsors. Thanks to event sponsor PENTEC and all the sponsors that helped make this tournament a success once again.
For a full list of sponsors, go to https:// saskpartyonthepond.com/sponsors/
Chiefs Leave It All on the Ice in High-Intensity Game 7 Battle
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
It was everything playoff hockey is meant to be. Fast, physical, emotional, and ultimately decided by the smallest of margins.
The Martensville Chiefs and Saskatoon Quakers delivered a high-intensity showdown in Game 7 on March 12th, with the series tied 3-3 and everything on the line. In front of a packed Martensville Sports Centre, the Chiefs pushed the game to double overtime before falling just short in a hard-fought battle that showcased the very best of playoff hockey.
The road to Game 7 had already been filled with dramatic twists after Martensville entered Game 6 with a 3-2 series lead, but found themselves in an early hole, trailing by three goals after the first period. The Chiefs responded with determination in the second, scoring three times to claw their way back, heading into the third with a score of 4-3 for the Quakers.
Despite the comeback effort, the Quakers edged out a 5-4 win, forcing a decisive Game 7.
From the opening puck drop, Game 7 carried the unmistakable intensity of a season on the line. Both teams came out fast and physical, with neither side able to break through in a scoreless first period. The pace only intensified in the second, where the teams traded goals to remain deadlocked at 2-2.
The third period brought even more drama, with both teams continuing to battle stride for stride. When the final buzzer sounded, the scoreboard still showed a 3-3 tie, sending the game into overtime.
The first overtime solved nothing, as both teams tightened defensively while still generating chances, forcing a second overtime period.
In the end, it took double overtime to decide the outcome, with the Quakers finding the breakthrough in a game where every inch of ice was contested.
While the result didn’t go their way, the Chiefs delivered a performance that embodied resilience and determination, pushing one of the most intense games of the season to its absolute limit.
From the opening faceoff through double overtime, the crowd remained fully engaged, creating a playoff environment that matched the intensity on the ice.
Most of all, it was a reflection of a team that refused to quit. The Chiefs left everything on the ice.
ABOVE: Players take a break between games to warm up by the fire. BELOW: Party on the Pond 2026. Submitted
More Curling Action Over the Weekend
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
It was another busy weekend for the Martensville Curling Club as they hosted Mixed Provincials from March 12th -15th.
A total of 13 teams competed in the tournament and after an incredible weekend of competition, team Hartung with the Highland Curling Club came out on top and has earned the right to represent Saskatchewan at the 2026 Canadian Mixed Curling Championships early next season.
“Thank you to all the teams for an amazing event and to the Martensville Curling Club for being fantastic hosts!” the team shared via social media.
The U20 Mixed Doubles Provincials was hosted by North Battleford at the Twin Rivers Curling Club March 12th – 15th. Melissa Remeshylo and Dylan Derkson of Team Remeshylo/Derksen coached by Scott Remeshylo, represented the Martensville Curling Club and went undefeated to win the tournament. They will now represent Saskatchewan at the 2027 Canada Winter Games in Québec City from February 27th to March 1th4, 2027. This will be Remeshylo’s second appearance at the Canada Winter Games.
“To go undefeated and end up on top among these teams is an incredible feat to accomplish. The competition and skill displayed by all teams at this event is truly amazing to see and a testament to the amount of work that it takes to get here,” said Remeshylo in a social media post.
“I am so proud to have the opportunity to represent Saskatchewan at my second appearance of the Canada winter games next winter in Quebec city!”
“Thank you to everyone that has supported us throughout the years. Including family, friends, sponsors, officials, clubs and of course, fellow competitors. You make this sport such a joy to be a part of.”
This will be the 60th anniversary of the inaugural 1967 Games.
Martensville Curling Club Members Headed to Nationals
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
The Provincial Girls Curlsask U20 tournament took place in Swift Current on February 28 and 29. Team Semeniuk, an under-18 team, defeated Team Simpson from Regina-Highland to earn the championship title. Lindsay Miller from Martensville is a member of Team Semeniuk and is now headed to Sudbury to represent Saskatchewan at U20 Canadian Championships on March 23rd.
Miller grew up through the Martensville Curling Club and has established herself as an elite 17-year-old curler. She also skips the Martensville Royals High School team.
Congratulations to Team Snow who defeated Team Robinson from Nutana-Saskatoon securing the U20 Men’s title. Dominic Barlow, who also competes in the Tuesday league in Martensville, will join Team Snow in representing at Nationals.
Martensville Minor Hockey Association Announces Upcoming AGM and Board Elections
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Members of the Martensville Minor Hockey Association (MMHA) will gather next month for the organization’s Annual General Meeting, where several board positions will be up for election.
The meeting is scheduled for April 15th at 7:00pm and will be available virtually, with a Zoom link to be provided closer to the meeting date.
Several key leadership roles will be open for nominations and elections as the association prepares for the upcoming season.
The President position, which carries a two-year term, will be vacant. Current President Trevor Hanley will be transitioning into the role of Past President.
The Treasurer position will also be open as Rhea Mathies steps away from the role.
A number of other board members have indicated they are willing to stand for re-election. Cam Tooth plans to run again for the AA Coordinator position, while Luke Fritshaw intends to run again as Fundraising Coordinator. Tegan Johnson has also indicated a willingness to continue serving as Scheduler.
In addition, the association will be seeking Division Coordinators for each age group for one-year terms. These roles include coordinators for U7, U9, U11, U13, U15, and U18 divisions.
MMHA officials are encouraging members who may be interested in helping guide the organization to consider running for one of the available positions.
Those interested in putting their name forward can contact Joyce by email at mvillehockeysecretary@gmail.com. Additional information about the responsibilities associated with each role can be found on the association’s website at martensvillehockey. ca.
The Annual General Meeting provides an opportunity for members to learn more about the association’s operations, participate in the election of board members, and help shape the future of minor hockey in Martensville.
ABOVE: Team Remeshylo/Derksen with Coach Scott Remeshylo
BELOW: Lindsay Miller
New Record Setting Municipal Revenue Sharing in Saskatchewan
Protecting Investment in Our Communities
This year, Saskatchewan municipalities will receive $392.4 million through the Municipal Revenue Sharing (MRS) program, an increase of $30.7 million more than the 2025-26 budget year. This is the highest ever amount allocated under MRS and a result of the underlying strength in Saskatchewan's economy.
"When developing the 2026-27 Provincial Budget, our government remained steadfast in delivering on our commitment to Saskatchewan communities and municipal revenue sharing," Government Relations Minister Eric Schmalz said. "This year's $392.4 million is an eight per cent increase over last year, to be invested in the municipality where you live, work and raise your family."
Since 2007-08, the Government of Saskatchewan has supported the municipal sector by providing nearly $5 billion in unconditional grants through MRS.
MRS provides predictable, unconditional funding to Saskatchewan cities, towns, villages, rural municipalities and northern communities based on three-quarters of one point of provincial sales tax revenue from two years prior. Because the MRS calculation is predictable, it ensures communities can make budget plans knowing what their annual allocation will be. Municipalities allocate MRS dollars to their strategic priorities.
MRS funding also supports programs dedicated to building resilience and connections between municipalities:
• An additional $800,000 is being invested in the Communities in Transition capital program. This support brings the program's total available funding to $1.5 million each year. These dollars help municipalities with feasibility studies, administrative costs and infrastructure planning when they take on responsibilities from a dissolving municipality. CIT is a vital support to ensure that municipalities can make the transition, continuing to provide the necessary services for their residents.
• Under the Targeted Sector Support (TSS) Initiative, $1.5 million is available for project-specific funding for joint municipal projects focused on increased regional cooperation, capacity building, municipal corporate transition as well as relationship building and dispute resolution. Since 2020, the TSS Initiative has allocated more than $6.5 million to 168 municipal-led projects.
MRS amounts by community including historical allocations will be available on saskatchewan.ca on budget day, March 18, 2026.
City of Saskatoon Releases 2025 Pointin-Time Count Community Report
The 2025 Point in Time (PiT) Count has identified 1,931 individuals in Saskatoon experiencing homelessness, an increase from 1,499 individuals in 2024. The number recorded in 2025 is now more than 3.5 times higher than the total identified during the 2022 count, underscoring a continued upward trend.
The City of Saskatoon, in partnership with the Saskatoon Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) and more than 250 volunteers, conducted Saskatoon’s annual PiT Count on October 16, 2025. The PiT Count provides a snapshot of the minimum number of individuals experiencing homelessness across Saskatoon.
This year’s count focused on enumerating individuals rather than conducting full surveys and included people and families staying in emergency shelters, transitional housing, unsheltered locations such as encampments, public systems and those experiencing hidden homelessness.
Key PiT Count findings:
• 1,931 people were counted as experiencing homelessness
o Includes 219 children (0-12) and 209 youth (13-24)
• Length of Time in Saskatoon
o 29.8% reported they have always lived in Saskatoon
o 43.0% have lived in the city for more than five years
o 27.2% have lived here for less than five years
• Indigenous Representation
o 82.9% of respondents identified as Indigenous, maintaining a significant overrepresentation
“The PiT Count provides both a snapshot of homelessness at a single point in time and valuable insight into year-over-year trends in our community,” says Lesley Anderson, Director of Planning and Development. “Access to this type of data ensures we understand immediate needs and pressures, while also monitoring the impacts of new and changing programs. As homelessness continues to rise, having accurate data to guide where we allocate resources for the greatest possible impact remains a priority.”
“SHIP appreciates the partnership with the City of Saskatoon in coordinating the PiT count. We appreciate the many volunteers who come out to walk the streets and talk to the people to ensure a comprehensive and accurate count. It helps us and the projects we fund identify gaps in service and we learn poverty is the common denominator in homelessness,” says Robert LaFontaine, Executive Director, Saskatoon Housing Initiatives Partnership.
The PiT Count is funded in part by the Government of Canada through Reaching Home: Canada’s Homelessness Strategy.
A detailed summary of the 2025 findings is available in the 2025 PiT Count Community Report. For more information, visit saskatoon.ca/pit.
Saskatchewan's Wholesale Trade On The Rise
On March 12th, Statistics Canada released January 2026 figures for wholesale trade, showing strong growth for the economy. Wholesale trade increased 9.3 per cent in January 2026 compared to January 2025, ranking first among the provinces. These numbers exclude petroleum, petroleum products, and other hydrocarbons and excluding oilseed and grain.
"Saskatchewan's economy continues to grow," Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding said. "Today's numbers paint a very positive picture for the people of this province. We are seeing more and more dollars flowing through our economy, which leads to increased jobs and opportunities Saskatchewan people depend on."
The value for January 2026 reached $3.9 billion.
Wholesale trade is a measure of the value of goods purchased in large quantities with the intention of being sold to resellers, but not to final consumers. These numbers exclude petroleum, petroleum products, and other hydrocarbons and exclude oilseed and grain.
Statistics Canada's latest GDP numbers indicate that Saskatchewan's 2024 real GDP reached an all-time high of $83.6 billion. This puts the province second in the nation for real GDP growth, and above the national average of 2.0 per cent.
Private capital investment in Saskatchewan increased last year by 12 per cent to $13.6 billion, ranking first among provinces. Efforts behind the province's Securing the Next Decade of Growth: Saskatchewan's Investment Attraction Strategy is driving that momentum.
For more information, visit: InvestSK.ca.
Myron Dyck
March 19, 1947 - March 23, 2011 We hold your memory in our hearts with each passing year and for eternity. Love, Norma and families
RCMP Tactical Teams Remove Large Quantities of Drugs and Firearms from Saskatchewan Communities in 2025
Saskatchewan RCMP’s Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams (SERT) continued to make significant strides in combatting organized crime and apprehending high-risk offenders in 2025, removing large quantities of illicit drugs and dangerous weapons from communities across the province.
Saskatchewan RCMP’s SERT is a province-wide network of specialized, intelligence-led police units that support front-line officers at RCMP detachments. The units target the individuals and criminal groups driving violence and drug trafficking in Saskatchewan. Saskatchewan RCMP’s SERT includes five units: the Crime Reduction Teams (CRT), Human Trafficking and Counter Exploitation Unit (HTCEU), Offender Management Unit (OMU), Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team (STRT), and Warrant Enforcement Suppression Team (WEST). These units – supported by 106 RCMP officers and 27 public service and civilian employees – are based in 10 communities across Saskatchewan and deploy throughout the province in response to emerging threats.
Enforcement highlights from 2025 - In May, SERT officers intercepted methamphetamine during a traffic stop that field-tested positive for fentanyl contamination. Two adults were arrested, and provincial partners with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Heath issued a public drug alert to warn residents of the heightened risk in the area.
In October 2025, SERT assisted Turtleford RCMP in an apprehension operation. Through targeted enforcement and detachment intelligence, officers arrested 10 individuals wanted on outstanding warrants during the four-day operation, directly improving safety in the region.
Later that same month, SERT units in North Battleford were executing a search warrant at a residence when a firearm was pointed at an officer. As a result of investigation, two males were arrested, five firearms and cocaine were seized, and 40 charges were laid, preventing further violence and reducing safety risks to both the public and police.
In December, a joint investigation between Saskatchewan RCMP’s SERT and Prince Albert Police Service’s CRT resulted in the seizure of 3.9 kilograms of cocaine, 4.8 kilograms of methamphetamine, and six firearms from a residence and vehicle in central Saskatchewan. Criminal networks often operate across detachment, jurisdictional, and provincial borders, making this one of many investigations where Saskatchewan RCMP’s SERT collaborated with other provincial partners to combat violent crime.
SERT’s 2025 Results - In 2025, Saskatchewan RCMP’s SERT units:
• obtained and conducted 375 search warrants, many resulting in significant illicit drugs and weapons seizures;
• conducted and/or assisted with 69 interprovincial investigations;
• made 1048 total arrests; and
• laid 955 charges under the Criminal Code and Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
Furthermore, these efforts led to the seizure of approximately 60 kilograms of methamphetamine, 14 kilograms of cocaine, 357 grams of fentanyl, three kilograms of other drugs, 70 pharmaceutical-style tablets, and over 120 firearms.
“Our specialized teams work hand-in-hand with front-line officers and community partners to target the individuals causing the most harm in Saskatchewan,” says Insp. Michelle Ireland, the officer in charge of SERT. “Last year’s results show how that coordinated, intelligence-driven enforcement is making a real impact, removing dangerous drugs, firearms, and high-risk offenders from communities throughout the province.”
POLICE BEAT
Saskatoon RCMP Looking to Find Vehicle Involved in Collision
On March 10, 2026 at approximately 6:30 a.m., Saskatoon RCMP received a report of a motor vehicle collision on Highway #219 in the RM of Dundurn. Officers responded immediately to the incident along with local fire and EMS. The initial investigation determined that an SUV travelling north on the highway was struck from behind by a truck. The truck did not stop and continued northbound on Highway #219. As a result of the impact, the SUV left the roadway and came to a stop in the ditch, sustaining damage. No injuries were reported to police.
The truck is described as possibly being a black Ford F150 or a Dodge Ram. Saskatoon RCMP continue to investigate.
If you have information about this incident, please contact Saskatoon RCMP immediately by calling 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www. saskcrimestoppers.com.
Saskatchewan RCMP Traffic Services Remove 47 Impaired Drivers from the
Road
Saskatchewan RCMP Traffic Services removed 47 drivers from the road during their latest traffic safety initiative. Twenty-five of these drivers had drugs in their system.
From March 4 to March 8, 2026, Saskatchewan RCMP Traffic Services conducted the third phase of their traffic safety initiative around the La Ronge RCMP Detachment area.
Saskatchewan RCMP Traffic Services officers from Yorkton RCMP Combined Traffic Services Saskatchewan (CTSS) and Saskatoon RCMP CTSS gathered in La Ronge to remove impaired drivers from the road and to remind motorists of safe driving practices.
On March 4 and 8, police officers conducted patrols on the way to and from the area. On March 5, they organized two check stops on Highway 102, south of Highway 915, and patrolled the Stanley Mission community. On March 6, they patrolled the new all-weather road between La Ronge and Wollaston Lake as well as the Wollaston Lake community. On March 7, they patrolled La Ronge and the communities between La Ronge and Stanley Mission.
During the five days, police officers checked a total of 275 drivers for impairment. As a result of these checks, police officers suspended:
• three driver’s licences for alcohol consumption prior to driving,
• 25 driver’s licences for drug consumption prior to driving, and
• 16 driver’s licences for driving without a valid driver's license.
Police officers charged:
• two drivers with one count each of operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, Section 320.14(1)(a) of the Criminal Code; and
• one driver with one count of refusing to provide a breath sample, Section 320.15(1) of the Criminal Code.
Police officers issued:
• 204 warnings, and
• 181 tickets (a third of which were for speeding).
