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.
May 19 - Regular Council Meeting
June 2 – Regular Council Meeting
June 9 – 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’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.
May 5 –
Regular Council Meeting Recap
Items discussed and adopted:
1. Council approved a Discretionary Use application from Ehrenburg Homes Ltd. for the development of a 45-unit townhouse project at 31 and 71 Mirond Road in the Lake Vista neighbourhood.
2. Council approved the request from Maddogs Football to waive a portion of the rental fees for the Williams Family Field House at the MRC, in the amount of $4.500.
3. Council approved the proposed Terms of Reference for the Protective Services Committee, established to provide oversight, guidance and recommendations to Council on public safety, emergency services, bylaw, and emergency management organization (EMO) within Martensville.
4. Council approved the proposed Terms of Reference for the Recreation & Green Space Committee, established to provide advice and recommendations to Council on matters related to parks, open spaces, recreation facilities, and community programming.
5. Council approved a partial road closure of Centennial Drive for the Annual Martensville Car Show, happening on September 12, 2026.
6. Council passed 2nd and 3rd readings of Bylaw3-2026 for the adoption of the Lake Vista 2 Concept Plan into the Official Community Plan.
7. Council passed all three readings of Bylaw 6-2026 for the adoption of the 2026 Tax Policy Bylaw. This includes an increase to the uniform mill rate from 6.23 to 6.57 to achieve budgeted property tax revenue, along with eliminating the half base tax provision for vacant residential properties.
Yard Waste Site
Whether you’re trimming trees, raking leaves, or cleaning up grass clippings, the City’s yard waste site is a great resource for residents to dispose of yard waste responsibly.
This site is located along 10th Ave S., south of the off-leash dog park, and is open 7 days a week. Please visit Martensville.ca for more information on accepted and not accepted items.
Please note:
- The site is intended for local, residential use. It is not open to commercial contractors.
- The site is monitored to prevent the dumping of garbage. Please only dispose of accepted waste at the site.
- A pruning ban on elm wood is in effect for the province from April 1st – August 31, in response to the spread of Dutch Elm Disease (DED).
Council Continues ATV Bylaw Discussions at Committee of the Whole Meeting
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Martensville City Council met Tuesday, May 12th, its monthly Committee of the Whole meeting, with several key items discussed ranging from development policies to a proposed ATV bylaw.
The meeting began with a presentation from the RCMP, providing council with a monthly update and overview of policing activity in the community. According to the April comparison report included in the agenda, overall occurrences showed some fluctuations. The report highlighted a notable decrease in property-related offences such as break and enters, alongside minor increases in certain person-related incidents, including assaults and harassment. Most serious offences remained low or unchanged.
Council then reviewed a series of reports from administration, beginning with a proposed Development Charges Bylaw. The new bylaw would combine the City’s existing development levies and servicing agreement fees into a single framework, aimed at improving consistency and transparency. The charges are intended to help recover capital costs associated with infrastructure upgrades and services required to support growth, including roads, water systems, wastewater infrastructure, parks, and recreation facilities. The bylaw is expected to move forward for first reading at an upcoming council meeting.
Council also considered a request related to a commercial redevelopment project at 101 Centennial Drive South. The applicant proposed expanding the existing building by approximately 331 square metres, which would typically require 33 offstreet parking stalls. Instead, the developer requested approval for 31 stalls and proposed a payment of $10,000 in lieu of the two additional spaces.
Another item discussed was a proposed application to the 2026 Canada Community-Building Fund (CCBF). Administration brought forward a project for upgrading Centennial Drive North that would consist of an arterial upgrade focused on replacing aging road assets, installing modern stormwater management and improving pedestrian safety. The report provided by administration noted that, “The scope includes
2026 Property Tax and Assessment Notices
2026 Property Tax notices will be sent out to Martensville property owners on May 15th, 2026. For payment options and more information on property taxes, visit: https://www. martensville.ca/pages/property_tax_and_assessment.html
The 2026 Assessment Roll is open to the public as of May 15th, 2026. It will be closed on July 15th, 2026. Assessment notices will be mailed only to property owners that have had an assessment change since 2025.
The assessment notice shows the assessed and taxable value of your property for both the previous and current year for comparison purposes. Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency (SAMA) provides the City with a “Detailed Property Profile” for each property that they assess. We encourage everyone to review their “Detailed Property Profile” to determine how your property is assessed.
Each year the assessment roll is open to inspection for the public for a period of 30 days (60 days in a revaluation year).
Visit mysama.ca to create a Public User account and view your property profile details online.
Trout Return to Kinsmen Park Pond Thanks to Kinsmen Club Support
The City of Martensville is pleased to announce that 500 rainbow trout have been stocked in Kinsmen Park Pond thanks to the continued support of the Martensville & District Kinsmen Club.
This initiative helps create more opportunities for residents and families to enjoy fishing and the outdoors close to home.
Residents are encouraged to enjoy the pond responsibly and follow all posted signage regarding fishing regulations and safety practices while visiting the area.
Spring Monster Garage Sale: May 22-23 | Presented by NPD & Canwest
Turn your pre-loved items into someone else’s new favourite finds by taking part in the Monster Garage Sale!
Register your house by May 20 online, at the MAP, or at City Hall to secure your spot. Flyers featuring a map of participating houses will be available at local gas stations, the MAP, and City Hall.
Upcoming Events
May 14 – Community Art Night at the Library
May 18 – City Facilities closed for Victoria Day
May 21 – Disc Golf begins
May 21 – Play & Learn with Mobile Early Learning at the Library
May 22-23 – NPD & Canwest Spring Monster Garage Sale
May 31 – Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides
approximately 425m of road replacement, 406m of new storm sewer piping, and the addition of concrete sidewalks and a pedestrian refuge island to enhance safety and drainage.”
The total cost for this project is estimated at $2.19 million, with approximately $1.34 requested from the CCBF. The City of Martensville would be responsible for a total of $845,290, which would be paid utilizing the Infrastructure Reserve, and the $106,983 carryover for engineering and design from the 2025 budget.
The meeting also included further discussion on a proposed ATV bylaw, following previous council discussions and public consultation. Key elements of the proposal included the introduction of a mandatory plate system for ATVs operating within city limits, with annual registration set at $70 and renewals at $50. The bylaw would define designated travel routes, primarily back alleys and direct roadway crossings, and proposed reducing speed limits from 30 km/h to 20 km/h to help limit dust, noise, and potential damage. Certain areas, including parks, walkways, and drainage channels, were identified as off-limits for ATV use. See more on this on page 3.
Council will meet again on May 19th at 5:00pm in Council Chambers at City Hall. More information about Council and Council meetings at www.martensville.ca.
Proposed ATV Bylaw Outlines New Rules for Use Within Martensville
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Martensville City Council reviewed a proposed All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) bylaw during its recent Committee of the Whole meeting, outlining a framework aimed at balancing recreational use with safety and community impact.
The proposed bylaw is the result of previous council discussions and public consultation and would establish clear rules for ATV operation within city limits if adopted.
One of the most notable components of the proposal is the introduction of a mandatory plate system. Under the bylaw, all ATVs operating within Martensville would be required to display a valid municipal plate. Failure to do so could result in fines and potential impoundment of the vehicle. The cost for a plate is proposed at $70 annually, with renewals set at $50.
The bylaw also identifies where ATVs would be permitted to operate. Designated routes would primarily include back alleys, with operators allowed to cross streets only by the most direct and shortest route of travel. The intent is to limit ATV presence on roadways while still allowing users to move between locations.
To address concerns related to dust, noise, and safety, a reduced speed limit is also being proposed. Within city limits, ATV speeds would be lowered from 30 km/h to 20 km/h.
The proposed regulations would also clearly define areas where ATV use would not be permitted. These restricted areas include parks, buffer strips, walkways, and drainage channels. The goal is to protect public spaces, infrastructure, and pedestrian areas from potential damage or disruption.
In addition to operational rules, the bylaw reinforces that ATV users must comply with existing provincial legislation, including holding a valid driver’s licence where required.
Council’s discussion of the bylaw reflects ongoing efforts to respond to increased ATV use within the community while addressing concerns raised by residents. The proposed changes aim to create a consistent and enforceable approach that supports both recreational users and the broader community.
The ATV bylaw remains in the discussion stage and is expected to return to council for further consideration at a future meeting before any final decisions are made.
Trout Return to Kinsmen Park Pond
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Trout are once again swimming in Kinsmen Park Pond following a recent stocking initiative made possible through a partnership between the City of Martensville and the Martensville & District Kinsmen Club.
The City of Martensville recently announced that 500 rainbow trout have been stocked in the pond, providing residents and visitors with another opportunity to enjoy outdoor recreation close to home. The initiative is part of a one-year pilot project approved by Martensville City Council.
Council passed a motion at its April 21st meeting to support the reintroduction of trout into the pond, following a previous presentation from Kinsmen Club member Steve Smith. Smith informed council that the Club had already received approval from Fisheries and Oceans Canada and was seeking a letter of support from the City in order to proceed.
The request was referred to administration for further review, which included consultation with the Water Security Agency (WSA). According to information provided to Council by Director of Recreation and Planning Roxane Melnyk, the WSA indicated there would be minimal risk of trout migrating from the pond to the South Saskatchewan River, noting that water flow between the pond and surrounding systems is largely limited to spring melt and occasional heavy rainfall.
Administration also raised considerations related to the City’s stormwater management system, noting that the installation of any barriers or grates to contain fish could impact infrastructure. The City is currently in the process of completing a Stormwater Master Plan, which is expected to help guide future decisions related to water flow and environmental impacts.
As part of the pilot project, additional safety measures were also recommended, as there are currently no designated fishing areas, docks, or signage at the pond, and advised that proper signage should be installed ahead of the fishing season to inform residents that they are using the area at their own risk. The cost of installing four safety signs was estimated at up to $1,000 and is expected to be covered through operational savings.
While there is currently no funding allocated for additional amenities such as docks, the Kinsmen Club has expressed interest in enhancing the site should the pilot project prove successful. Any future additions would be required to meet City standards and undergo further review.
Residents are encouraged to enjoy the pond responsibly and to follow all posted signage and fishing regulations while visiting the area.
The pilot project will be reviewed following completion of the City’s Stormwater Master Plan, at which time council will determine whether the trout stocking program will continue in future years.
Tim Horton’s Smile Cookie Campaign Raises Record Breaking Amount
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
The 2026 Tim Hortons Smile Cookie campaign in Martensville ran from April 27th to May 3rd. This annual campaign is one of Canada’s biggest community fundraisers where for one week, Tim Horton’s across Canada sells ‘Smile Cookies’, with all proceeds going to local charities of their choice. This year’s profits from the Martensville Tim Hortons went to supporting Hope’s Home, which supports children with complex medical needs, along with their siblings and other local children.
“We’re proud to share that a record breaking $23.3 million was raised for our 30th Smile Cookie campaign! These funds are donated to nearly 700 local charities and community groups across Canada, selected by restaurant owners in your communities. Thank you to everyone who volunteered, purchased a cookie, a plushie and donated to the campaign. Every smile counts!”, the company stated via social media.
Martensville Loses Devoted Community Member Syl Serblowski
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
On May 4th, Syl Serblowski, treasured member of the Martensville community, passed away at the age of 81.
Syl was President for the Martensville & District Lions Club for many years, as well as District Governor and Zone Chairman. He was a devoted member of the Lions Club for over 50 years and was honoured with awards including “Citizen of the Year”, “Volunteer of the Year”, “The Melvin Jones Fellow”, “The Queen’s Jubilee Medal” for public service, along with countless other recognitions for his time and dedication.
along with his wife Carol, presenting a cheque to the Martensville Food Pantry on behalf of the local Lions Club
Syl also served as Grand Knight for the Knights of Columbus, as well as president for the Seniors New Horizon Centre and on their committees. Syl was a member on the Martensville Library Board for years, the local housing authority, and previously served on Martensville Town Council for approximately ten years.
The Martensville Library took time to recognize this longtime Library Board member whose dedication, vision and countless hours of volunteer service helped make the library what it is today.
“Syl's commitment to literacy, learning, and community connection leaves a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit generations to come. Beyond his work with the library, he was a valued community volunteer who gave generously of his time and heart,” the local library shared.
After retiring Syl continued to devote his time to fundraising for Lions Club charities such as Dog Guides, KidSport, and the Martensville Pantry.
If you’re from Martensville or the surrounding area, you likely saw Syl outside the CO-OP or Canadian Tire, selling tickets in support of local initiatives and those that knew him will always be remembered by his cheerful spirit, warm smile, and unmistakable laugh.
A Celebration of Life was held on Friday May 8th at The Heritage Building in Martensville with many in attendance. It goes without saying that Syl’s generous spirit will be missed in the Martensville community.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations by cheque payable to “Martensville Lions” (memo: “Walk for Guide Dogs on behalf of Syl”) or by e-transfer to martensvillelions@gmail.com using the same memo. Donations will support the Walk for Guide Dogs, taking place on May 31st.
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Community Events Offer Something for Everyone in May
With warmer weather arriving, Martensville residents have several upcoming events to look forward to, offering opportunities to get active, support local causes, and connect with the community.
Walk with Your Doc Encourages Community Wellness
Residents are also invited to take part in “Walk with Your Doc,” hosted in partnership by Martensville Collective Health & Wellness and Warman Physiotherapy and Wellness, on Friday, May 15th.
The community walk aims to show support for family doctors in Saskatchewan while encouraging residents to get active and connect with others. The event begins at 5:00pm at the North Ridge Community Centre parking lot, located at 901 3rd Street North in Martensville.
Participants will follow a 1 to 1.5 kilometre route, with all ages and fitness levels welcome to join.
Monster Garage Sale Returns May 22 & 23
Residents looking to declutter their homes and make some extra cash will not want to miss the upcoming Monster Garage Sale, taking place May 22nd and 23rd.
The city-wide event invites households to register their homes as official sale locations, creating a community-wide shopping experience for bargain hunters. Participating homes will be listed on an official flyer, which will be available for pickup at the Martensville Athletic Pavilion (MAP), both local gas stations, City Hall, and the Martensville Library.
Registration costs $5 per household and can be completed online at martensville. ca or in person at the MAP or City Hall. Participants will receive an official Monster Garage Sale sign along with balloons to help mark their location.
Walk for Dog Guides Supports Important Cause
Later in the month, the Martensville Walk for Dog Guides, also known as “Walk with Doug,” will take place on Sunday, May 31st at the Heritage Centre near the Lions Spray Park.
Registration begins at 1:00pm, with the walk starting at 2:00pm, followed by a barbecue in Lions Park. The event raises funds for Dog Guides, which provide service dogs at no cost to individuals with medical or physical needs. Currently, dozens of individuals are waiting for service dogs, making community support essential.
Participants can collect pledge sheets from Martensville and Warman Pet Valu locations or from local Lions Club members, or donate online. The event will also feature watering stations and treats for participating dogs, including pup cups and ice cream.
Share Your Upcoming Events
Have an event you would like to see featured? The Martensville Messenger is always looking to highlight local happenings. Residents and organizations are encouraged to submit details about upcoming events by emailing news@martensvillemessenger.ca
ABOVE: Syl was presented with Volunteer of the Year by Mayor Muench in 2016.
ABOVE: Syl Serblowski,
in 2022.
Registered Nurses Delivering Safe, Trusted Care in Saskatchewan
Editorial by College of Registered Nurses of Saskatchewan
Safe, trusted health care does not happen by chance. It depends on skilled nurses and a strong system that sets clear expectations for safe practice.
National Nursing Week, May 11 to 17, is a time to recognize the important role nurses play in the health of people across Saskatchewan. This year’s theme, The Power of Nurses to Transform Health, reflects what many people already see every day: nurses make a real difference in our communities. They improve access to care, support better health outcomes, and help strengthen the health system.
At the College of Registered Nurses of Saskatchewan (CRNS), we regulate the nursing profession in the public interest. Our role is to help ensure Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners provide safe, competent, and ethical care. We do this by setting entry requirements, approving nursing education programs, and establishing standards for practice and a code of conduct.
The CRNS provides guidance and sets expectations for ongoing learning. Nurses keep their knowledge and skills current to meet practice standards through selfdirected learning. This is a key part of protecting the public and supporting safe care.
Across Saskatchewan, nurses are a trusted part of the community. They are often the first person people turn to for help and are a steady source of support. In hospitals, clinics, and other care settings, nurses help people get the care they need.
Nursing is more than direct care. Nurses work in many roles across the health system, including leadership, education, research, and policy. They work in hospitals, communities, classrooms, boardrooms, and other settings that support how care is delivered. Each role plays a part in safe, high-quality care.
Nurses bring knowledge, compassion, critical thinking, and accountability to everything they do. Whether providing care directly or working behind the scenes, they share a common purpose of protecting the public and improving health outcomes.
Health care continues to evolve, and nurses continue to adapt. They bring sound judgment and work closely with other professionals to support patients and communities, with CRNS guiding their practice along the way.
During National Nursing Week, we recognize and thank all nurses, in all roles, for the expertise, dedication, and leadership they bring every day. Their contributions are essential to the health of our communities and to a health system people can trust.
Saskatchewan Recognizes National Nursing Week
Saskatchewan is recognizing and expressing its gratitude for the high-quality, life-saving work of nurses across the province during National Nursing Week, taking place May 11 to 17.
This year’s theme, “The Power of Nurses to Transform Health,” highlights the essential role nurses play within the health care system. Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said the week is an opportunity to acknowledge the more than 20,000 nurses in Saskatchewan who provide patient-focused care every day.
“This week, we show appreciation to over the 20,000 amazing nurses across our province who put patients first every day by delivering high-quality care, in the right place at the right time,” Cockrill said.
The province’s Patients First Health Care Plan recognizes nurses as a key part of patient-focused solutions. They play an important role in strengthening health care teams, improving access to services, and helping deliver better outcomes for patients.
Since 2023, Saskatchewan has made significant progress in growing its nursing workforce through the Health Human Resources Action Plan, with more than 2,800 nursing graduates hired across the province. A recent report from the Canadian Institute for Health Information shows Saskatchewan’s nursing workforce continues to grow and ranks above national and Western Canadian averages in several key indicators. The province also has one of the largest nursing workforces per capita in both urban and rural areas.
Nurse Practitioners (NPs) remain a key part of the system, and Saskatchewan has recently launched the largest expansion of primary care nurse practitioner roles in its history. The initiative is aimed at improving access to timely, relationship-based care closer to home.
The provincial government continues to invest in nursing education, training, and career development in an effort to build a strong and sustainable workforce. Since 2022, more than 330 first-year nursing seats have been added across Registered Nursing, Registered Psychiatric Nursing, Licensed Practical Nursing, and Nurse Practitioner programs. In total, nearly 1,400 nursing seats are now available at post-secondary institutions across Saskatchewan.
The Ministry of Advanced Education’s 2026–27 budget includes nearly $26 million to support ongoing initiatives and new expansions in nursing programs. Approximately $1.3 million of that funding will go toward 26 new nurse practitioner training seats as part of the Patients First Health Care Plan.
“A strong health care system starts with strong education and training,” said Advanced Education Minister Ken Cheveldayoff. “By expanding nursing seats and supporting students through programs like loan forgiveness, we are making it easier for people to build long-term careers right here in Saskatchewan.”
Additional supports are also in place to help recruit and retain nurses, particularly in rural and northern communities. These include financial incentives such as a Rural and Remote Recruitment Incentive of up to $50,000, relocation grants for nurse practitioners, student loan forgiveness of up to $20,000 for eligible graduates, and the Graduate Retention Program, which offers up to $24,000 in tax credits.
Together, these investments and initiatives are aimed at strengthening Saskatchewan’s nursing workforce and ensuring residents continue to receive highquality care across the province.
Construction Begins at Royal University Hospital ICU Bed Expansion
The Government of Saskatchewan is investing over $17 million in capital funding for 2026-27 to expand adult Intensive Care Unit (ICU) capacity at Royal University Hospital (RUH) in Saskatoon. This project will increase the number of ICU beds from 19 to 26, building on the province's ongoing commitment to strengthen critical care services.
“Expanding ICU capacity at Royal University Hospital means more access to support critically ill and surgical patients in Saskatoon and surrounding areas,” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “This project reflects our government’s commitment to putting patients first by strengthening our health system and delivering the right care in the right place at the right time.”
“The expansion project at the Royal University Hospital Intensive Care Unit highlights our commitment to delivering health infrastructure to protect Saskatchewan,” SaskBuilds and Procurement Minister Sean Wilson said. “Through careful planning and the two-phased construction approach to allow continuity of operations, this project will enhance critical care capacity while maintaining uninterrupted services, ensuring patients and care teams benefit from modern, purpose-built facilities.”
The Royal University Hospital ICU Expansion project includes renovations to the existing space to achieve increased bed capacity and modernize the existing ICU, accommodating 26 single-patient rooms. Construction will begin this week in a twophased approach and is expected to be complete within two years. ICU patients will be relocated to another vacant unit within RUH for the duration of construction, allowing the existing ICU beds to remain fully operational.
“Expanding critical care capacity is important to ensuring patients receive timely, life saving care when they need it most,” Saskatchewan Health Authority CEO Andrew Will said. “By modernizing the existing ICU and adding seven new beds, we are better equipped to respond to the most complex and urgent patient needs, while also supporting and enhancing the high-quality care delivered by critical care teams to patients during some of their most difficult moments.”
In addition to the government funding, generous donations through the Royal University Hospital Foundation have allowed this project to move forward.
"Our donors understand that RUH's Intensive Care Unit is where families from across Saskatchewan turn during the most critical moments, and it is through donor support that we can continue to advance health care in our province," RUH Foundation CEO Jennifer Molloy said. "We are grateful to be a partner in creating a space that matches the extraordinary skills of our medical teams. When you need complex care, you are in the right place at RUH."
In 2021, the Government of Saskatchewan committed to expanding adult ICU capacity across the province. The 2026-27 investment in the RUH ICU Expansion Project builds upon Government's priority to strengthen critical care services in Saskatchewan. Additional government investments in Saskatoon include four new ICU beds at St. Paul's Hospital and three additional ICU beds at Royal University Hospital in 2023, as part of the Saskatchewan Health Authority's Saskatoon Capacity Pressure Action Plan.
Record Number of Surgeries Performed in Saskatchewan 2025-26
More than 100,000 surgical procedures performed for the second consecutive year
Saskatchewan has reached a new milestone in surgical care, with more than 102,000 surgeries and procedures performed between April 1, 2025 and March 31, 2026. This is the highest annual total on record and marks the second consecutive year of surgical volumes exceeding 100,000 procedures.
“Surpassing 100,000 surgeries for a second straight year reflects our government’s commitment to putting patients first and ensuring high-quality surgical care is available in right place at the right time,” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “I want to thank our dedicated surgical teams for their incredible efforts to make this possible.”
Surgical volumes in 2025-26 increased by more than 2,100 procedures compared to the previous year, building on the 100,406 surgeries completed in 2024-25.
Progress continues in reducing wait times. The total surgical waitlist decreased by approximately two per cent (525 cases) over the past year. Focused efforts on longestwaiting patients reduced those waiting more than 24 months by 18 per cent, with only 69 patients remaining in this category as of March 31, 2026.
"Our focus is on ensuring patients receive timely access to surgical care," Saskatchewan Health Authority Chief Operating Officer Derek Miller said. "Higher surgical volumes mean more people are getting the care they need sooner, closer to home, made possible by the skilled teams working together across Saskatchewan."
Saskatchewan's surgical program continues to improve access by increasing surgical volumes, modernizing referral pathways and expanding partnerships with community providers. Efficiency improvements are also helping reduce delays and better use of operating room capacity. Centralized surgical scheduling, expanded pooled referral systems and enhanced patient preparation programs are supporting faster access to surgery and more efficient use of operating rooms across the province.
Through the Patients First Health Care Plan, Saskatchewan has renewed the commitment to perform 450,000 surgeries between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2029, while working toward a three-month wait time target for most procedures by March 31, 2030. The plan focuses on expanding operating room capacity, improving coordination across the health system and ensuring patients can receive care as quickly and as close to home as possible.
Innovations and partnerships continue to strengthen surgical capacity across the province. Robot-assisted surgery programs in Saskatoon and Regina performed nearly 500 procedures over the past year, while private surgical partners completed approximately 17,000 publicly funded surgeries.
Recruitment efforts have added more than 20 anesthesiologists, further expanding capacity.
"Improving surgical care depends on how well our system works together," Saskatchewan Health Authority Provincial Head of Surgery Dr. Michael Kelly said. "When surgical teams across disciplines and communities are aligned, we can deliver patient first care more consistently. A coordinated, team-based approach is helping us provide timely, high quality surgical care across the province."
The 2026-27 provincial Budget provides an additional $2.4 million investment in surgical services, targeting priority areas such as spine surgery and joint replacement. This funding will help continue building on the momentum to maintain high surgical volumes and further reduce wait times for patients.
To learn more about Saskatchewan's Surgical Performance and Wait Times, visit: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/accessing-health-care-services/ surgery/surgical-performance-and-wait-times.
SIRT Investigating Collision in Saskatoon
On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at approximately 9:15 a.m., the Saskatchewan Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT) received a notification from the Corman Park Police Service (CPPS) regarding a serious incident involving police. SIRT's Civilian Executive Director accepted the notification as within SIRT's mandate and directed an investigation by SIRT.
On May 5, beginning at approximately 8:00 a.m., the RCMP received several calls reporting that a black Dodge Durango SUV was being driven erratically on Highway 11, north of Saskatoon. The RCMP passed the call to CPPS and several members of CPPS attempted to locate the SUV. A CPPS vehicle occupied by one police officer located the SUV travelling southbound at the north edge of Saskatoon and attempted to initiate a traffic stop, activating the police vehicle's emergency lights and siren. The SUV failed to stop and accelerated away at a high rate of speed, ultimately travelling down the shoulder of the road and through heavy traffic.
The CPPS member decreased the speed of the police vehicle and the SUV continued into Saskatoon on Idylwyld Drive where, near 60th Avenue, the SUV travelled through the ditch and entered the northbound lane of travel, striking a van and causing significant damage to both vehicles. The CPPS member arrived at the scene of the collision and arrested one male occupant of the SUV and, with the aid of a responding RCMP member, removed the lone occupant, an 82-year-old man, from the van that had caught fire.
EMS were contacted by CPPS and attended the scene, where they assumed responsibility for the man's care and transported him to hospital in critical condition.
Immediately following the notification, a SIRT team consisting of the Civilian Executive Director and six SIRT investigators was deployed to begin their investigation. SIRT's investigation will examine the actions of police during this incident. As the incident occurred within the City of Saskatoon, the Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) has assumed responsibility for the investigation into the occupants of the vehicle and their actions. As part of the ongoing investigation, SIRT is asking anyone who directly witnessed or may have video of the incident to contact SIRT at sirt@gov.sk.ca.
No further information will be released at this time. A final report will be issued to the public within 90 days of the investigation ending.
SIRT's mandate is to independently investigate incidents where an individual may have died or suffered serious injury arising from the actions of on and off-duty police officers, or while in the custody of police, as well as allegations of sexual assault or interpersonal violence involving police.
For updates on SIRT investigations, follow SIRT on X, formerly known as Twitter, at: Serious Incident Response Team - Saskatchewan (@SIRT_SK) / X
Saskatchewan Partners With #Notinmycity to Combat Human Trafficking
The Government of Saskatchewan is partnering with Canadian country artist Paul Brandt and his #NotInMyCity initiative to provide enhanced human trafficking training to law enforcement agencies across the province.
Through the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence, the province is providing $100,000 to support the delivery of specialized training by the International Association of Human Trafficking Investigators. The training, expected to take place this fall, will be offered to RCMP members, municipal police, marshals, highway transportation officers, and Indigenous police services.
The sessions will focus on strengthening investigative skills, improving victimcentred practices, and enhancing coordination between agencies responding to human trafficking cases.
Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod said the initiative builds on previous collaboration with #NotInMyCity, including the Maddison Sessions Conference held in Saskatoon last spring, which brought together law enforcement from across Canada to share strategies and solutions.
“This funding and training are a continuation of that relationship and demonstrate Saskatchewan’s ongoing commitment to addressing human trafficking,” McLeod said.
Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Alana Ross said investing in frontline training is an important step toward identifying trafficking situations earlier and ensuring victims receive the support they need.
“Human trafficking has no place in Saskatchewan, and our government is taking action to strengthen the ability of officers to respond effectively,” Ross said.
Community Safety Minister Michael Weger added that improving collaboration between agencies is key to addressing these complex crimes and holding offenders accountable.
#NotInMyCity was founded by Brandt in 2017 and focuses on raising awareness and supporting efforts to combat human trafficking. The organization has hosted several Maddison Sessions conferences across Canada, including events in Alberta, British Columbia, and most recently in Saskatoon in 2025.
Brandt said specialized training is essential given the complexity of human trafficking cases.
“This partnership will bring practical tools to frontline officers and strengthen the ability to identify trafficking, support survivors, and coordinate responses across agencies,” he said.
Funding for the initiative is part of a broader federal commitment, with Saskatchewan set to receive $20.3 million over four years through the National Action Plan to support programs addressing interpersonal violence and abuse.
The province also continues to invest more than $70 million annually into programs and services that support victims, expand housing options, raise awareness of human trafficking, and improve access to legal and court resources.
Residents looking for more information or support related to human trafficking can access services and resources online at stoptrafficking.ca.
