Please Note: This is a brief summary of the most recent meeting. For more detailed information and the official minutes, please visit Martensville.ca. Official minutes are posted once approved.
Martensville City Council reviewed and discussed the proposed 2025 Civic Budget. City Administration was tasked on finding additional options to limit the proposed increase in Property Tax Revenue.
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.
Upcoming Council and Committee of the Whole Meeting Dates
City of Martensville Council Meetings and Committee of the Whole Meetings are open to the public and we invite you to attend in person or virtually to see what is happening in our community.
March 11th – Committee of the Whole March 18th -Committee of the Whole
Location: Martensville City Hall Council Chambers, 37 Centennial Drive.
Time: All meetings begin at 5 pm
If you’d like to speak or present at a meeting, make sure you’re on the agenda by contacting the City Clerk’s office. If you prefer to join from the comfort of your home, contact the City Clerk or check the online agenda at martensville.ca for the meeting link.
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!
Glow Skate by North Prairie Developments and CanWest – Sunday March 9th
Take advantage of one of the last public skating days of the season. On March 10th from 1-2:30 pm, join us for Glow Skating! Strap on the skates, dress in bright neon colors, and head down to the Sports Center. This glow party will have dimmed lighting, glow sticks, and music by DJ Randy! Admission is $5/person or $10/family.
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.
Tickets Now Available for Mental Health Fundraising Event in Martensville
Possibilities
Recovery Centre is very excited to host their 5th Annual Brighter Future Fundraiser. All funds raised through this event will help to establish and support the Brighter Future Fund, ensuring youth mental wellness programs remain free and accessible to all youth in Martensville, Warman and Saskatoon.
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
This event will be held on March 22, 2025, at North Ridge Community Center in Martensville beginning at 5pm when the doors open for mocktails and socializing. At 5:45 PM, the Emcee will deliver the opening remarks. Dinner, provided by GrayCon Catering Ltd, will be served at 6:00 PM.
Following dinner, the dessert auction will start at 7:00 PM, leading into a game of bingo at 7:30 PM. The amazing bingo prizes include an air fryer, event tickets, a spa day basket and much more.
Later, at 8:45 PM, blackout bingo will begin with the Grand Prize being a Staycation package including; gift cards to Leopold’s and a breakfast restaurant, tickets to exciting city events, and a hotel stay & luggage set. Blackout Bingo Cards are $25 each or 3 for $50.
The 50/50 draw is scheduled for 9:30 PM, and the evening will conclude with closing remarks at 9:45 PM.
Tickets are $50 each and you can purchase them on Eventbrite https://www. eventbrite.ca/e/5th-annual-brighter-future-fundraiser-tickets-1207857386959?aff=ebds oporgprofile. Ticket sales close March 15, 2025.
“Fundraisers are the backbone of our support, and we’d love to see you there. By attending, you’ll help us continue providing free mental health education to youth aged 10-16 in Martensville, Warman and Saskatoon,” said Katharine Carter, Registered Social Worker and Co-Founder of the Martensville Youth Centre.
“Your support makes a real difference. Join us for a fun-filled evening while giving back to the youth in our community!”
Council Discusses Budget Amendments to Reduce Tax Increase to Residents
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Martensville City Council met for the first meeting of the month on Tuesday, March 4th where their main topic of conversation revolved around budget deliberations, continued from last week.
A draft of the budget was presented to council at a special council meeting, held on February 25th, which proposed an increase of 4.7%, which would equal approximately $107.89 per year for residential properties.
“Council had a chance to review the budget and gain further insight with administration at the last meeting. Administration has come back with a few options for council to consider that could lower the current tax increase proposal (4.7%), which on average, will result in an increase of $8.99/month on residential properties,” Mayor Kent Muench said.
Council requested that administration revise the budget to reduce the proposed tax increase. Proposed amendments included:
- conducting strategic planning internally, eliminating contracted services for this project by $20,000 (a reduction of 0.21%).
- Deferring the Kinsmen Park Master Plan Design Updates until a future year to align with priorities identified in upcoming strategic planning, reducing capital projects by $50,000 (a reduction of 0.52%).
- Defer facilities assessments until a future year, reducing capital projects by $100,000 (a reduction of 1.05%).
Council can decide to remove any/all of these items to reduce the tax impact for 2025.
The other item on the agenda was regarding the Martensville Library, who held their AGM on February 12th. Members of the community have stepped forward to volunteer to serve on the library board and Council was asked to approve positions for Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Treasurer, Secretary, five board members and Council Representative Katharine Carter, with Councillor Krista McCann as alternate.
At the AGM, the Martensville Library also discussed options for long-term space within the community due to an increase in usage and programming. They asked for information on what options may be available within Trilogy Ranch, at the Martensville Recreation Centre, or other city facilities, with location being an important factor, as many users walk or bike to the local library. They also noted that parking at the current location is a challenge.
Moving forward, the local library plans to collect data such as library access, books checked out and location usage, and asked the City to provide support with communication through email and social media.
Council will meet again on March 11th for the Committee of the Whole meeting. More information can be found at Martensville.ca.
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Weather Cooperates for Popular Party on the Pond Fundraiser
Jocelyn
Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
Party on the Pond, one of Martensville's most significant annual gatherings, was held this past weekend by the North Ridge Community Centre. Despite a lower number of teams participating this year, many spectators came out on this beautiful warm weekend to make this event a success.
The games began with puck drop at 6pm on Friday, February 28th followed by a come-and-go supper. After the games, the evening followed with Brock Andrews performing at the cabaret.
Saturday's festivities began at 2:30pm with games and beer gardens. The community spirit was very present as people enjoyed the beautiful afternoon socializing and watching 3-on-3 pond hockey.
This year's festivities included a shootout sponsored by Haga HD with a $1000 prize. This years’ winner was Justin Edin.
A come-and-go supper was again provided for team participants, followed by Brody Siebert starting the evening cabaret.
The 25 members of the POTP Committee contributed significantly to the success of the tournament by managing ice preparation, setup, takedown, and various other responsibilities throughout the weekend.
"This year was a grind. We thought we were ahead of the game and had the ponds cleared and flooded in January. Then came the 3 weeks of very cold followed by ice melting warm. But the resilience of this group continues to amaze me. This is a special group who give to this community. They never quit, put in countless hours, even got a Zamboni on the Ponds... and the tournament ran flawlessly," said MCRP Committee Member Jesse Reis.
All proceeds from this event will go towards supporting the Martensville Community Recreation Centre (MCRP).
“Thanks to all the volunteers and teams that bring Party on the Pond to us every year,” as stated via social media.
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/
RIGHT & BELOW: Skaters and spectators of all ages came out to enjoy the beautiful afternoon on Saturday, March 1 for the annual Party on the Pond.
SPORTS
Skate Martensville Performs Well at Winter Classic Competition
Skate Martensville’s STARSkaters and STAR 4 Synchro teams were in Regina this weekend to compete in the 2025 Winter Classic Competition.
The teams achieved some of their personal bests, and had podium finishes after putting in a lot of hard work, dedication and showing their passion for skating.
“We are beyond proud of the dedication and sportsmanship shown by every skater,” Skate Martensville stated.
Skate Martensville also thanked Skate CanadaSaskatchewan for hosting such a fantastic event, as well as the coaches, volunteers and officials that contributed.
ABOVE: The ‘Party on the Pond Mini Stick Zone’ is now ready for action at the Martensville Recreation Centre. (Martensville Recreation Centre)
ABOVE: The Valley Soccer Association hosted their first Valley Jamboree at the Martensville Recreation Centre this weekend. The event was a success thanks to the contributions of parents and volunteers and saw many teams from Melfort, Flin Flon, Moose Jaw, North Battleford, and Saskatoon. (Valley Soccer Association)
ABOVE: The Martensville High School Royals Girls curling team competed in Regionals in Davidson this weekend. The team consists of Lindsay, Aubrey, Drew, Jada, Sierra, coach Derek. (Martensville Curling Club)
ABOVE: The Martensville High School Royals Boys curling team competed in Outlook at Regionals this weekend after coming second in districts. The team consists of Ben, Zach, George & Hudson and coach Larryssa. (Martensville Curling Club)
Saskatchewan Announces Measures to Protect Communities Against Fentanyl and Methamphetamine
On Tuesday, February 25th, the Government of Saskatchewan announced further measures to protect communities from illicit fentanyl and methamphetamine production, transportation, trafficking and street use in the province.
The measures enacted will provide additional tools to remove fentanyl and methamphetamine from our communities, significantly deter anyone from trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine, and prevent street-level use to help protect the health and safety of all citizens and ensure our medical system is not undermined by these harmful substances.
"These drugs have caused immense harm in our communities, leading to addiction, crime and loss of life," Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod said. "We are taking a firm stance to disrupt the flow of fentanyl and methamphetamine while also providing options for offenders to access the resources necessary for recovery."
These measures will include:
• Creating provincial penalties, including fines up to $1 million in some cases, to stop the unauthorized, production, transportation, distribution and use of these substances outside approved medical use.
• Examining updates to the Fine Option program that will allow offenders to receive credit against courtimposed fines if the offender attends eligible addictions programming.
• Focusing efforts under The Seizure of Criminal Property Act, 2009 that allow the government to seize property that was either gained through illegal activities or used to commit crimes.
• Prioritizing drug-related offenders, ensuring they are appropriately apprehended and held accountable, as part of the Warrant Intelligence Team's efforts to enhance public safety and disrupt illegal drug activity. The Warrant Intelligence Team will also work with government ministries to suspend government benefits to these offenders.
• Updating the Trespass to Property Regulations to classify drug use and other disruptive activities as trespassing, to defend against these activities in semipublic spaces.
• Including dangerous, drug-related items as street weapons in The Safe Public Spaces (Street Weapons) Act, allowing police to seize these items and in some cases lay charges under the Act.
• Implementing policies to cancel provincial licenses for people convicted of drug-related crimes including driver's licences, provincial firearms licences, hunting and fishing licences, and in some cases business and other municipal licenses and provincial benefits.
“We all know that these illicit drugs are hurting our people,” Métis Nation-Saskatchewan President Glen McCallum said. “It is more important than ever to work together with all governments – federal, provincial, Métis and First Nations in coordination to deter illegal activity but also work with those wanting to start the recovery path. We want to support these people with programming and transitioning into recovery-based living. The Government of Saskatchewan has committed to meaningful engagement with Métis Nation-Saskatchewan on the details of and before the implementation of these changes.”
Fentanyl and methamphetamine are increasingly the cause of overdose deaths, violent crime and community instability. By addressing both the supply and demand sides of the issue, these measures work toward reducing drug-related harm, improving public safety and fostering healthier, more stable neighborhoods and communities.
TeleMiracle 49 Raises Over $5.7 million
TeleMiracle – Saskatchewan’s Charity – wrapped up its 49th telethon today in Saskatoon. As of 5:00 p.m., the final numbers on the video tote board showed a total of $5,709,306 raised. With this year’s incredible generosity added, the total raised by TeleMiracle since 1977 is now over $170 million.
“TeleMiracle remains rooted in Saskatchewan, and we can’t say thank you enough for the continued support of this province,” says TeleMiracle 49 Chair Terri Troupe-Logue. “TeleMiracle is a unique fundraiser that the whole province can take part in, in a meaningful and impactful way.”
One of the many highlights of this year’s show was the 80 talented Saskatchewan performers who appeared throughout the telethon. Not only did these acts showcase the scope of talent from every corner of the province, but they also raised money for the telethon – which was once again matched by Nutrien, who presented their donation of $100,000 just before the end of the broadcast.
“We are so fortunate to have such generous donors in this province;” states Troupe-Logue, “their support will allow the Kinsmen Foundation to provide Saskatchewan residents assistance when they need it most”
All TeleMiracle proceeds stay in Saskatchewan and are granted through the Kinsmen Foundation for specialized medical and mobility equipment, assistance with medical travel, and new and innovative health care equipment. The Foundation typically receives over 1,000 applications for assistance annually.
Donors that made phone pledges during the telethon can honour them by mailing their donation to TeleMiracle at Box 83000, Saskatoon SK, S7K 9S1.
Planning begins shortly for TeleMiracle 50, to take place February 28th and March 1st, 2026, in Saskatoon. Details leading up to next year’s show will be posted at www.telemiracle.com.
TeleMiracle celebrates its 49th year in 2025. Through the proceeds of this annual telethon, the Kinsmen Foundation is Helping People Every Day in Saskatchewan, to improve their independence and quality of life through gifts of mobility and medical equipment or funding for medical travel that they otherwise could not afford.
TeleMiracle 49 took place this past weekend, and as of 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 2, a total of $5,709,306 had been raised. (Submitted)
LEFT: The Martensville & District Kinette Club took to the stage for TeleMiracle 49 to present a cheque for $4526.97. “There aren’t words to describe how grateful we are for all of your support during our fundraising efforts this past year for TeleMiracle. Thank you for attending fundraisers, monetary donations, donating items for raffles and bingo prizes, sharing our posts on social media and for showing up as a great community!” (Martensville & District Kinette Club)
As winter winds down, the Government of Saskatchewan is reminding anglers to remove their ice fishing shelters from provincial waterways before warming temperatures create unsafe ice conditions.
Shelters must be taken off the ice by March 15 in all areas south of Highway 16 and by March 31 in northern regions of Saskatchewan.
Spring weather can be unpredictable, and deteriorating ice conditions can make it dangerous to retrieve shelters later in the season. It is the responsibility of all anglers to ensure they remove their structures and any associated debris before these deadlines.
Failure to remove shelters by the deadlines can result in hefty fines and the confiscation of the structures and their contents. Abandoned shelters pose unnecessary risks to everyone who enjoys Saskatchewan lakes in the summer and to the wildlife who call our lakes home. Anglers are encouraged to properly dispose of waste and debris when dismantling shelters to help preserve Saskatchewan lakes.
Ice fishing shelters must be marked on the outside in legible letters of at least 2.5 cm high, displaying
Letter to the Editor
the owner's complete name, address and phone number. Shelters cannot be left on the shore.
Be extremely cautious when travelling on ice, as thickness and strength can vary. Signs of unsafe ice include slush, pressure ridges and thermal cracks.
This year's ice fishing season closes on March 31 in southern and central Saskatchewan and on April 15 in northern Saskatchewan. For more information, check the Anglers Guide online at saskatchewan.ca/fishing.
If you suspect wildlife, fisheries, forestry or environmental violations, please call Saskatchewan's tollfree Turn In Poachers and Polluters (TIPP) line at 1-800667-7561 or report online at saskatchewan.ca/tipp. You don't have to give your name and you may be eligible for a cash reward from the SaskTIP Reward Program.
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ABOVE:
Saskatoon Police Lay Charges in Bear Spray Incidents
Saskatoon Police charged three persons over the weekend in relation to separate incidents involving bear spray.
25-27186 - At approximately 11:00 a.m., February 28, 2025, a patrol officer observed a physical altercation in the area of 3rd Avenue North and 23rd Street East and learned bear spray had been deployed. The officer detained the group for a weapons investigation which resulted in a can of bear spray being located. A 34-year-old man is charged with Possession of a Dangerous Weapon (x2), Carrying a Concealed Weapon, and breach of court-imposed conditions.
25 -28158 - Shortly after 9:00 p.m., March 1, 2025, Police responded to the area of 20th Street and Avenue B South after reports that a bus driver was a victim of a bear spray attack. Further investigation located the suspects a short distance away. A 15-year-old female was found in possession of a can of bear spray and attempted to resist arrest. She is charged with Assaulting a Police Officer (x2), Assault with a Weapon (x2), Possession of Dangerous Weapon, Carrying Concealed Weapon, and Resisting Arrest. (Court Info #991296374).
25-28638 - At approximately 9:30 p.m., March 2, 2025, it was reported that bear spray had been deployed on a transit bus in 200 block 23rd Street East. Police arrived on scene within minutes of the report and observed the suspects fleeing on foot. A 14-year-old male was arrested and found to be in possession of a can of bear spray. He is charged with Assault with a Weapon and Mischief. (Court Info # 991296423)
POLICE BEAT
Weapons Seized During Search Warrant Execution
Investigators from the Saskatoon Police Guns & Gangs Unit have charged two men after they were found in possession of a loaded firearm and conducted energy weapons yesterday.
At approximately 10:30 a.m., February 27, 2025, patrol officers responded to the 2300 block of 33rd Street West for a report of an assault and a person in possession of a firearm. Members from the Guns & Gangs and Canine Unit's also attended to assist. Upon arrival, two males were observed exiting the residence. Further investigation found one of the males concealing a loaded sawed-off rifle, knife, and a homemade conducted energy weapon (CEW). The second male was also found in possession of a homemade CEW.
As a result of the investigation, Guns & Gangs executed a search warrant and seized a pellet gun and rifle ammunition. Officers also located the victim of the assault, a 35-year-old woman. She was found to not be seriously injured.
A 37-year-old man is facing 16 weapons- and assault-related charges. (Court Info #'s 991296209, 991296211)
A 44-year-old man is charged with Possession of a Dangerous Weapon, Carrying Concealed Weapon, and Prohibited Possession of Weapon (Court Info #'s 991296212)
Three Arrested After Fleeing From Police
On March 1, 2025 at approximately 2:10 p.m., Prince Albert RCMP received a report of an injured male walking in the area of Hazelwood Road and Highway #302 East, approximately 10 kilometers from Prince Albert, SK.
Officers responded, along with local EMS, and located the injured male. Investigation determined an adult male driving a truck located another adult male walking on the side of the road and offered him a ride. While the two males were in the vehicle, the male passenger assaulted the male driver. The driver exited the vehicle and the male passenger stole the truck. The injured male was taken to hospital with injuries described as non-life threatening. The two males were not known to one another.
Officers made patrols in the area and located the stolen truck travelling southbound on Highway #2 towards the City of Prince Albert. Multiple occupants were observed in the truck. Officers engaged their emergency equipment and attempted a traffic stop, but the truck fled at a high rate of speed. Officers followed in the direction of the suspect vehicle into the City of Prince Albert, but later lost sight of it.
Later that same day, Prince Albert RCMP located the truck driving eastbound on Highway #302 West, heading back towards Prince Albert. For safety reasons, a tire deflation device was set up and the truck ran it over, causing all four tires to deflate, but the truck continued to flee from police at a reduced speed. Police were later able to stop it in the City of Prince Albert. Two adult males and an adult female were arrested at the scene with the assistance of Prince Albert Police Service.
As a result of continued investigation, 36-year-old Terrance Gardiner from Île-à-laCrosse, SK is charged with:
• one count, possession of property obtained by crime over $5000, Section 354(1)(a), Criminal Code; and
• one count, flight from police, Section 320.17, Criminal Code.
34-year-old Wayne Merasty from Île-à-la-Crosse, SK and 19-year-old Nadine Stalthanee from Black Lake, SK are each charged with one count, possession of property obtained by crime over $5000, Section 354(1)(a), Criminal Code.
Terrance Gardiner, Wayne Merasty, and Nadine Stalthanee appeared in Prince Albert Provincial Court on March 3, 2025 (Information #90516516, #90516517, and #90516518).
Prince Albert RCMP continue to investigate. Prince Albert Police Service assisted in this investigation.
