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 1 - Council Meeting
April 8 - Committee of the Whole 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 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.
Organics/Green Bin Program and Pick-ups
The City of Martensville offers a Green Bin program through Loraas Organics. This service is by subscription.
Pick up of the Green Bins has commenced with regular scheduled bi-weekly collection alternating between North/South Martensville and running from May until the end of October Pick-up take place on Tuesdays. The pick-up schedule can be viewed at Martensville.ca
For information or to sign up for this program contact the Utility Clerk at City Hall.
Careful out There! Safety Reminders on our Streets, Parks and Pathways
The recent mild weather and runoff have created slippery and potentially hazardous conditions across the City. Please keep these safety tips in mind:
• Slippery Pathways: Pathways may have accumulating water, ice or frost. Residents are encouraged to use extra caution when walking.
Unstable Pond Conditions: Warm temperatures and runoff have made pond ice uncertain and inconsistent. Please respect all signs and barricades around neighborhood ponds.
• Icy and Rutted Streets: Melting has led to ice and rutting on streets. Please slow down to stay in control and avoid potential damage to your vehicle.
Snowmobile Restrictions: Snowmobiles are not allowed in parks, drainage systems, or on streets. Riding in these areas can harm trees, plants, and expose riders to hidden hazards like rocks or equipment.
• Pothole Alert: With the thaw, potholes may begin to form. Approach standing water cautiously as it could conceal potholes. You can report them to the City using the ‘Request for Service’ feature on our website.
Snow Removal this Winter – What you need to know
The City’s Snow Removal Program aims to keep roads safe, accessible, and clear for emergency services, vehicles, and pedestrians. While our crews work diligently, winter weather can be unpredictable, and snow-clearing activities may vary. Here’s how you can help:
- Avoid pushing snow onto streets - This creates ridges that obstruct plowing efforts and creates larger snow ridges at your driveway.
- Don’t pile snow on streets or hydrants - This can block emergency access.
- Clear driveways before plows arrive - This helps crews work efficiently and prevents ridges.
- Avoid parking on streets during snow clearing - Vehicles hinder operations and risk being blocked by snow.
- Watch for posted removal zones - Vehicles parked in these areas may be ticketed and towed.
- Stay back from sanding trucks - Keep a 15m distance to allow safe dispersion of salt and sand.
- Going on Vacation? - Consider removing your vehicle on the street in the event of snowfall and snow removal operations.
For more information and to view the City’s Priority Map, visit Martensville.ca.
Information on general program procedures and the City’s Priority Map is available online at Martensville.ca
In Case of a Water Line Freeze Up…
In the past, there have been areas in the community prone to water line freeze-ups.
If you experience a waterline freeze‐up or any other interruption in service, please call (306) 931‐2166 to report your issue. If this happens outside of regular business hours, please follow the prompts to be transferred to the emergency after‐hours contact.
Thank you for your co‐operation!
Martensville City Council March 18th Recap
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Martensville City Council held its final meeting of the month on Tuesday, March 18th. The meeting opened with a public hearing on a proposed amendment to the P4G District Official Community Plan for the Grasswood Project. This amendment aims to accommodate a multi-parcel rural commercial subdivision south of Saskatoon. As a member of the P4G partnership—alongside Saskatoon, Warman, Osler, and the RM of Corman Park—all municipalities must receive approval from Council.
Council also reviewed correspondence from the Wheatland Regional Library, which provided statistics on Martensville’s library usage in 2024. Some highlights from the previous year included:
• 3,921 Martensville residents holding a library card
• 31,179 Library2Go digital checkouts by Martensville residents
• 71,929 total circulations
Several items on the agenda were items that were discussed previously by Council, including an application for a secondary suite at 517 2nd Avenue South and a request to waive fees for the Martensville Youth Connection.
Council also approved the 2025 Water & Wastewater Administrative Bylaw, which included a 4.6% rate increase, due to an increase in rates by the City of Saskatoon and SaskWater. This increase would take the current consumption rate from $4.88 per cubic meter to $5.10 per cubic meter. According to the report provided to Council, the average household uses 19 cubic meters per month and would see an estimated increase of $4.18 per month, or $50.16 per year.
An application for the Economic Development Business Incentive was received for Lock Box Storage, located at 881 8th Street South. The project will include the construction of a 4200 sq. ft. building and land improvements valued at $800,000. Administration proposed a two-year tax abatement.
Updates from City administration departments were provided to Council. Some highlights include:
Infrastructure and Planning – Roadways - roadway crews have been addressing snow/ice rutting on roadways and hauling snow to prevent future flooding concerns. Sanding and ice-control measures are being completed as conditions require. Infrastructure and Planning – Water and Sewer – crews are working on seasonal planned maintenance of water pump stations and lift stations. No reports of waterlines freezing; however, crews are continuing to monitor the situation. In recent years, numerous small to medium sized water and sewer contractors have closed, which may impact availability, scheduling and pricing for contracted work going forward.
Planning Dept – plans for an indoor storage facility in Meadows Business Park expanded from ½ acre to one acre. Plans to construct two apartment buildings on 16th Ave N and Main St to provide additional housing in the community. Building permit for apartment building at 225 Main Street is under review. Discretionary use public hearing planned for April 8th Council meeting for renovation of existing building and construction of second building on Centennial Drive.
Recreation & Community Service – Volunteer Appreciation Night scheduled for April 16th to honour and celebrate contributions of community volunteers. Sports Centre closing for season on March 24th. New pool liner for Aquatic Centre will begin installation first week of September and expected to be completed mid -October. Plans to expand 9-hole disc golf course to an 18-hole course and to make course more userfriendly is underway and expected to take place next golf season.
The full list of updates from each department, as well as more information on items discussed by Council can be viewed on the March 18th agenda, available at www. martensville.ca.
What’s Happening at the Martensville Library
Free Tree Seedlings Available Through Wheatland Regional Library
Wheatland Regional Library is once again partnering with the Neighborhood Forest free tree program, offering community members the opportunity to receive a free tree seedling. This initiative encourages environmental stewardship and provides an excellent way to celebrate Earth Day.
To receive a free tree, interested individuals must register by March 15. Simply visit https://www. neighborhoodforest.org/school-search/ and search for your local library to complete the sign-up process.
Seedlings will be delivered to participating libraries during the week of Earth Day, from April 22 to April 30. Those who register will be contacted when their tree arrives and must pick it up at their designated library location. For more details and frequently asked questions, visit Neighborhood Forest’s FAQ page.
Stop by the Martensville Library on Thursday, March 20th at 10:30am for a fun green-themed Story time program. There will be songs, stories and a frog and lilypad craft to make. (Martensville Library)
Storytime Program Schedule Update
The Martensville Library is making changes to its Storytime program schedule due to low attendance at weekly sessions. Moving forward, Storytime events will no longer be held weekly but instead will take place on special scheduled dates throughout the spring.
Spring 2025 Storytime Dates & Themes:
• Thursday, March 20 at 10:30 AM: Green/Colors Storytime
• Monday, March 24 & Thursday, March 27 at 10:30 AM: Chickens Storytime
• Monday, April 14 & Thursday, April 17 at 10:30 AM: Easter Storytime
• Tuesday, April 22 at 10:30 AM: Earth Day Storytime
• Monday, May 12 & Thursday, May 15 at 10:30 AM: Bugs & Flowers Storytime
While the weekly sessions are being discontinued, these special dates will continue to offer engaging, themed Storytime experiences for children and families. For further information on library programs and events, follow the ‘Martensville Library’ on Facebook.
Martensville Food Pantry Prepares for Easter
The Martensville Food Pantry has been a staple to the community since 2016 and has continued to grow throughout the years. Each Wednesday, the MFP prepares and provides food hampers to area residents, with special hampers provided for holidays each year. With Easter approaching, the MFP is reminding those in need of added support to contact them with information about your household to ensure you receive an Easter Dinner Hamper. Donations of food items, gift cards, toiletries, cash and more are always welcome to ensure there is a wide variety of items to provide in the weekly hampers. For more information, contact (306) 280-1255.
The Martensville Curling Club hosted a Men’s International Event from March 14-16, which saw 16 teams from Canada, USA, Korea, and the Netherlands compete for a $21,000 purse.
Fans had the opportunity to witness the curling action free of charge, with inperson viewing available at the club and live streaming provided by CurlingZone’s YouTube channel.
The competition kicked off on Friday, March 14, with the first draw at 9:00 AM. Over the course of three intense days, teams battled through a series of closely contested matches, culminating in the semifinals on Sunday at 1:00 PM, followed by the final at 4:00 PM.
The final saw Team Dropkin out of Duluth, MN go against Team Howard from Ontario where Dropkin came out on top with a score of 6-4.
Warman Wolverines Set to Join SJHL for 2025-26 Season
Hockey fans in Warman are in for an exciting new chapter, as the city will welcome its first Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) team for the 2025-26 season.
Earlier this month, the Notre Dame Hounds SJHL franchise was officially sold by Athol Murray College to a group of investors from Warman. The sale included ownership of the team, its players list, and coaching staff.
During SJHL Weekly, Warman Wolverines co-founder Jon Abrametz unveiled the team’s logo and color scheme. The primary logo features a side profile of a wolverine, incorporating red, teal, dark blue, and white. A secondary logo, consisting of a 3D scratch mark, will be featured on the jersey sleeves.
While Warman’s minor hockey teams traditionally wear black and yellow, Abrametz explained that those colors closely resembled the Hawks and Bruins—two existing SJHL teams. The decision was made to explore alternate options while keeping red in the mix to honor the Notre Dame Hounds, a long-standing SJHL franchise since 1987.
After consulting with Warman High School Principal Andrew Merryweather, the ownership group decided to align the SJHL team’s name with the high school’s Warman Wolverines. Additionally, permission was obtained from the Whitecourt Wolverines to use the name at the junior hockey level.
The addition of the SJHL team will not interfere with existing hockey programs in Warman. The team will play at the Warman Home Centre Communiplex; which Abrametz noted was an amazing facility; however, may require a seating expansion. The Warman AAA program that currently utilizes the ice will instead transition into a new space as part of the Communiplex Arena Expansion Project, set for completion this summer.
Fans eager to support the Warman Wolverines can look forward to season tickets going on sale in April, as well as official team merchandise becoming available soon. Abrametz stated that there will be a prospects camp taking place this May, with more details to be announced
ABOVE: Bravo Dance Co in Martensville had teams attend the Saskatchewan Provincial Cheerleading Championship on March 15th in Regina. Congratulations to all teams that competed and gave it their all. Miss Nicole of Bravo Dance Co was nominated for SCA Coach of the Year, and several teams came out with a championship, including the U12 Provincial Championship - Royals, the U16 Provincial Championship - Electric and the U18 Provincial Championship - Air Force. (Bravo Dance Co. - Martensville)
ABOVE & RIGHT: The Martensville Mavens U13C Marlies took on the Comet Fusion at the Martensville Recreation Centre on Sunday, March 16th. The Marlies fought hard and ended the game with a 3-2 win over the Fusion.
SPORTS
VSA Spring League Open for Registration
Valley Soccer Association is open for teams and individuals that are looking to join in the Adult Spring League, which runs from May to August on Saturday nights.
If you are interested in participating, you can register online, and a team will be assigned to you if you don’t have one. You can also create your own team with friends. Visit https://www. rampregistrations.com/ login?v3=def01252b2 to register.
The cost to register is $40/person + team fee, $1500/team for a quarter field or $2000/team for a half field.
If you are seeking to add additional players to your team, please send a message to their Facebook page or email them at technical. director@valleysoccer.ca. They will connect you with some of the Free Agents who are currently looking for a team.
LEFT: The U5 Valley Soccer Association (VSA) Program finished their season on March 17th. The team gathered to play on Monday nights and learned a lot about the game throughout the season. (Valley Soccer Association)
ABOVE: The Martensville Recreation Centre hosted teams from Saskatoon Youth Soccer this past weekend, with Sask EXCEL Male vs. U17B Saskatoon Alliance going head-to-head on Sunday, March 16th and drawing quite a crowd to cheer them on. (Shanine Sealey/MM)
ABOVE: The Valley Soccer Association (VSA) Indoor Girls League wrapped up for the season on March 16th. The season provided a lot of fun and experience for the girls. (Valley Soccer Association)
Reflections from the Women and Wealth Gala in Calgary
Written by Katharine Carter - BSW, RSW, M.Ed., and Qualified Mediatorat Carter’s Counselling
This past weekend, I had the privilege of attending the Women and Wealth Gala for International Women’s Day in Calgary alongside Allison, one of our counsellors. It was an evening filled with inspiration, wisdom, and deep connections with incredible women from across Alberta.
One of the most meaningful parts of the event was hearing the words of women who have walked different paths yet share a common thread— resilience, purpose, and a commitment to growth. Their words resonated deeply, serving as reminders for both personal and professional life:
“Support your community—they are everything. You expect them to support you, but how do you support your community?” – Jess Tetu
A powerful reminder that true success isn’t just about what we gain but what we give back. In both business and personal life, community matters.
“You are writing your book. It’s your life and your journey—only you have the perspective to do that.”
– Rachel Mielke
No one else can tell your story the way you can. Every experience, challenge, and triumph is uniquely yours, shaping the path ahead.
“Be still. Be quiet. Listen. Ask for assistance. You don’t need to be perfect— let that go.” – Shayla Stonechild
We often feel the pressure to have everything figured out, but there is strength in stillness and growth in seeking support.
“You are who you hang out with. Truly—don’t judge a book by its cover. Own your uniqueness. Find a way to heal and express yourself.” – Ashley Callingbull
Surrounding ourselves with the right people can shape our mindset and wellbeing. Healing comes in many forms, and embracing our uniqueness is part of that journey.
“Rise above your anger. You can’t control everything, but you can control your behaviors. Your past doesn’t have to define you or your future.”
This message hit home—we are not our past. Growth, healing, and transformation are always possible.
The gala was a reminder to pause, reflect, and embrace the journey, no matter where we are in life. These words will continue to guide me, not only in my personal growth but also in my work at Carter’s Counselling Services, where we help others navigate their own unique stories.
Saskatchewan's Building Construction and Housing Stats Lead the Nation
Province Ranks First in Building Construction and Second in Housing Starts in Year-Over-Year Growth
The latest Statistics Canada numbers show an increase of 27.2 per cent in January 2025 compared to January 2024 for the building construction investment in the province. Housing starts for Saskatchewan increased by 115.7 per cent from February 2024 to February 2025.
"These two key indicators are reflective of the overall strength of our provincial economy and today's numbers show continued positive growth," Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding said. "These numbers translate into more jobs, investment and new projects throughout our communities, which brings added opportunity to everyone who calls Saskatchewan home."
In February 2025, housing starts on single family dwellings increased by 80.8 per cent and multiple units increased by 127.6 per cent, compared to February 2024. In the first two months of 2025, urban housing starts in Saskatchewan increased by 51.5 per cent, compared to the same period in 2024. Saskatchewan ranked second among the provinces in percentage change.
Investment in building construction is calculated based on the total spending value on building construction within the province. Housing starts refers to the number of housing projects that started that month.
Statistics Canada's latest GDP numbers indicate that Saskatchewan's 2023 real GDP reached an all-time high of $77.9 billion, increasing by $1.77 billion, or 2.3 per cent from 2022. This places Saskatchewan second in the nation for real GDP growth and above the national average of 1.6 per cent.
Private capital investment in Saskatchewan increased last year by 17.3 per cent to $14.7 billion, ranking first among provinces. Private capital investment is projected to reach $16.2 billion in 2025, an increase of 10.1 per cent over 2024. This is the second highest anticipated percentage increase among the provinces.
Last year, the Government of Saskatchewan unveiled its new Securing the Next Decade of Growth - Saskatchewan's Investment Attraction Strategy. This strategy, combined with Saskatchewan's trade and investment website, InvestSK.ca, contains helpful information for potential markets and solidifies the province as the best place to do business in Canada.
For more information visit: InvestSK.ca.
Saskatoon Police Seize Fentanyl Pills
The Saskatoon Police Service Drug Unit, with the assistance of other investigative units, have made a significant seizure of illegally manufactured fentanyl pills.
On March 12, 2025, investigators seized 1,814 pills that have presumptively tested positive for fentanyl. Samples have been sent to Health Canada for confirmatory analysis. The seizure of these pills confirms that drugs are appearing in different forms (i.e. pressed and powder), and the public is reminded that any drug not prescribed by a doctor and dispensed by a pharmacist can result in serious injury or death.
ABOVE: The PSSD seized approximately 1814 fentanyl pills.
Members of the public are also reminded of the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act which serves to provide some legal protection for individuals who experience or witness an overdose and seek emergency help. Symptoms of an overdose may include but are not limited to: slow or no breathing; gurgling, gasping or snoring; clammy and cool skin; blue lips or nails; and difficulty waking up or staying awake. If you suspect someone may have experienced an overdose, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Anyone with information on illegal drugs in our community is asked to contact Saskatoon Police at 306-975-8300 or, if you wish to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Corman Park Police Offer
Home Watch Program for Homes That Will be Vacant for Five Days to Two Months
As of March 5, 2025, Corman Park Police Service introduced the Home Watch Program, a program intended to increase the level of service and peace of mind for Corman Park residents, and not to replace regular checks on property.
The newly enforced program will see CPPS Officers conducting exterior checks residences within the RM of Corman Park if homeowners are traveling, or if a home is vacant for a period from five days and up to two months.
There are no fees associated with the program, and interested residents must submit applications seven days prior to their travel departure date to allow processing time. Applications can be completed online at the RM of Corman Park website and returned by email to police.service@cormanparkpolice.ca or dropped off in person at the RM of Corman Park Police Service Office at 111 Pinehouse Road, Saskatoon.
If the applications meets all required criteria, CPPS will contact the applicant. Once accepted CPPS will attend residences on the list during patrols, time permitting, and conduct an exterior check to ensure the residence and all detached structures are secure.
CPPS noted that this service will not replace any house inspections required by your home insurance policy, and homeowners are responsible for ensuring they have adequate insurance coverage during their absence and instead, the service is to ensure that if homes are broken into while homeowners are away, it will be secured by the CPPS and RCMP. Additionally, CPPS noted that homeowners should alert their neighbors they are leaving, or hire a private security firm if they want to reinforce security, as Officers will provide exterior checks as available; but due to calls for service, or other duties, they may not be able to attend consistently.
If a break-in is discovered, the CPPS Officer will notify the RCMP to commence a criminal investigation. The Officer will inform the homeowner, or the homeowner's contact person, and assist with securing the home.
POLICE BEAT
Drugs, Weapons, Stolen Items and More Seized by Saskatoon Police
On March 8, 2025, the Saskatoon Police Service Crime Reduction Team (CRT) conducted enforcement action in a fentanyl/cocaine trafficking investigation. With assistance from the Tactical Support Unit (TSU), a 40-year-old man was taken into custody without incident at approximately 9:00 p.m. in the 1500 block of 19th Street West. He was found to be in possession of cocaine and bear spray upon arrest.
A short time later, TSU initiated a traffic stop at Circle Drive and Lorne Avenue taking three occupants into custody, without incident. Cash was seized upon arrest.
At approximately 12:00 a.m., March 9, 2025, TSU executed a search warrant at a residence in the 100 block of Fortosky Manor. One man was located inside the residence and was taken into custody without incident.
As a result of this investigation, the following exhibits have been seized as evidence; 26.3g Fentanyl (blue, orange, red, purple and brown), $1795.00 CAD, 11.4g powdered cocaine, 2.6g hard cocaine, 84 Oxycodone pills (Percocet), 2g methamphetamine, 26 shotgun shells, 23 9mm pistol shells, 4 knives, 1 machete, 1 can of bear spray, $15,000.00 in stolen hockey sticks (Extreme Sports Regina – 2019 Regina Police Service file) and 1 stolen motorcycle.
Four people are facing a total of 16 charges including Possession of Fentanyl for the Purpose of Trafficking, Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking, Possession of the Proceeds of Crime Over $5000 and Possession of a Dangerous Weapon.
Saskatchewan RCMP Urges Precautions When Using Informal Ride Services
Saskatchewan RCMP asks that individuals use precautions when using social media-based informal ride sharing services. These ride sharing services often exist on Facebook groups, and connect those seeking a ride with those willing to provide one. Note that these are informal arrangements and are not connected to commercial rideshare services.
- Be sure you know and trust the person you are seeking a ride from.
- Anytime you travel, let someone know when you are leaving and your expected arrival time. If you are getting a ride, consider providing information about the vehicle’s make, colour and plate to them.
- If you are negotiating a ride and something feels off, trust your instinct and find an alternative way to travel.
Saskatchewan RCMP is providing this safety messaging after receiving a report of a sexual assault this week.
The victim reports that she arranged a ride to Saskatoon via a Facebook group serving the Fort Qu’Appelle area, then was sexually assaulted during the ride.
Indian Head RCMP arrested an adult male in relation to the subsequent investigation, which is being led by Craik RCMP. He is charged with sexual assault and sexual interference; court information is pending.
The matter is still under investigation. If investigation determines there are additional victims or a risk to public safety, we will provide additional identifying information about the accused.
To report information about this or similar incidents, dial 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www. saskcrimestoppers.com. In an emergency, always call 911.
ABOVE: Saskatoon Police seized a wide variety of items including drugs, weapons, stolen items and more on March 8th. (Saskatoon Police Service)
