May 23, 2024

Organics/Green Bin Pickups Underway

Green Bin pick-ups are now underway, alternating between North and South neighborhoods with pick ups scheduled on Tuesdays.

The Green Bin program is currently a subscription-based program that runs from May until October.

Those wishing to sign up for a Green Bin should contact City Hall. More information, including pick-up schedule and acceptable organics items, can be found on our Waste and Recycling page at Martensville.ca

Residential Fire Related Regulations

Martensville Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone to take care and be mindful of the regulations for Residential Outdoor Fire Pits, Barbeques, and Fireworks to ensure the safety of themselves and others in our community.

Regulations include:

- Fires must be contained within a non-combustible fire box constructed of material such as cement, brick or metal and covered with a heavy gauge screen and be at least 3m form combustible materials (fences, buildings etc)

- The burning of rubbish, leaves or clippings is prohibited

- Outdoor fires must be supervised and should be extinguished when finished

- Keep a garden hose, pails of water or a source to extinguish a fire nearby

- No permit is required for private fireworks display but those fireworks must be set off in a manner that would not create danger or nuisance to neighbors

- No person under the age of 18 shall set off fireworks

- Ensure you have the civic address of your residence prominently displayed in the event of fire or emergency; this is to ensure responders can clearly identify your home.

For a complete list of regulations please visit martensville.ca or contact the Fire Department.

Recreation Program Update -

Buster Days is Coming! May 31st- June 2nd

Monster Garage Sale May 24th and 25th

The Spring Monster Garage Sale will take place on Friday, May 24th & Saturday, May 25th for the City of Martensville and the City of Warman.

Buster Days 2024, May 31st- June 2nd

A full slate of weekend activities for everyone in Martensville’s premier community event. Some of the features include the Family Swim Night, Party in the Park, the Buster Days Parade, Petting Zoo, Fun for All at the MAP, Old Time Dance and the Open Stage.

Visit Busterdays.com for more information and the full schedule of the weekend’s events.

Thank you to all Volunteers and Sponsors who make Buster Days a success!

POLICE BEAT

Police Issue Statement Following Claims of Driver Being Issued Ticket in a Drive Thru

The Saskatchewan RCMP has received multiple inquiries related to an incident where an adult male was charged under the Traffic Safety Act 241.1(2) on May 13, 2024 in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. It has been reported publicly that a traffic stop was initiated with the adult male in a McDonald’s drive thru.

The Saskatchewan RCMP can confirm that on May 13, 2024 the individual was observed driving a vehicle on a public roadway while using a cellphone. A Combined Traffic Services Saskatchewan RCMP officer initiated a traffic stop with the individual. The individual then pulled in the McDonald’s parking lot, where the traffic violation was issued.

Saskatchewan RCMP Warn Public About Text Scam Circulating Through the Province

Saskatchewan RCMP is aware of reports of text scams where individuals falsely identify themselves as the Saskatchewan Traffic Safety Bureau. The text message states that the person contacted has been captured speeding in a designated school zone. It says the person must click a link in order for them to avoid attending court.

The Saskatchewan RCMP reminds the public to be vigilant when receiving unsolicited text messages or phone calls. Saskatchewan RCMP does not send information about traffic-related tickets via text message.

We encourage the public to take the following steps if they receive text messages from a scammer:

• Don’t text the scammer back.

• Block their phone number immediately.

• Don’t send them any money or gift cards.

• Keep records of the texts.

Report frauds to your local RCMP detachment by dialling 310-RCMP. You can also report scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or https://www. antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/report-signalez-eng.htm.

Landscaping or Back-Yard Project This Spring?What You May Need to Know

Property owners looking at landscaping or construction projects must secure a permit to access their property across public spaces or parks. The Access to Private Property Through Open Spaces Bylaw serves as a framework for property owners, allowing access to their property for home or yard projects while overseeing public areas to mitigate and address any potential damages or use of public spaces for project staging purposes.

Please contact City Hall for more information about this permit.

Don’t Get Missed on Garbage/Recycling Day

A few reminders to ensure you don’t miss your scheduled pick-up day:

• Have the cart curbside by 7AM on collection day

• Do not overfill carts. The lid must be closed to ensure contents cannot fall out of the bin, or spill onto roadways or against the garbage truck. Bins that are overfilled will not be picked up.

• Bag all trash and place inside the cart, bagged or unbagged garbage placed beside, in front, or on top of the cart will not be collected.

June Council Meeting Dates

Please Note: Council Meetings may be attended in person, and guests may wear a mask if desired within Council Chambers. Those still wishing to attend but wish to do so virtually should contact the City Clerk or visit the online agenda for the link to attend.

June 4th – Regular Council Meeting

June 11th -Committee of the Whole Meeting

June 18th – Regular Council Meeting

All Meetings are located at Martensville City Hall Council Chambers at Martensville City Hall - 37 Centennial Dr. S. All meetings commence at 5 PM.

Those wishing to address or present to Council must be placed on the agenda. To be placed on the agenda please contact the City Clerk’s office at City Hall or visit the website for details.

The full Council and Committee of the Whole Schedule can be obtained at martensville.ca

Property Tax Information- What you need to Know Tax Notices have been mailed out. If anyone has not received their notice, they should contact City Hall. Ensure all contact information is up to date. Taxes are due July 31st, to avoid interest charges.

Ways to Pay - Taxes can be paid by cash, cheque, or debit at City Hall. -Taxes can also be paid online through Banking Bill Payments, or by etransfers; for payments: payments@martensville.ca.

Please include address &/or roll number in the comment section along with an indication the payment is for taxes.

May 14th Check Stop Results in Numerous Charges

Corman Park Police Service was part of a multi-agency check stop that took place on Friday, May 17th. During this check stop, a total of 800 vehicles were checked, which resulted in one alcohol impaired driver being charged, five drug impaired drivers, and six provincial charges issued.

Calling All Youth Ages 13-21: The RCMP is Recruiting the 2024-25 National Youth Advisory Committee!

The RCMP is recruiting for the 2024-25 National Youth Advisory Committee. National Youth Advisory Committee members help the RCMP better understand, support and connect with youth by talking about the ways they want to be engaged. National Youth Advisory Committee members learn tools for community engagement, hear about volunteer opportunities, and talk with experts and RCMP members.

The National Youth Advisory Committee helps shape how the RCMP supports youth. It brings together youth from all over Canada to discuss important issues that they face in their respective communities. The National Youth Advisory Committee provides valuable input to RCMP policies, programs and strategies.

Each year, committee members share their thoughts on important and relevant topics such as:

• reconciliation

• bullying and cyberbullying

• online safety

• transportation safety and impaired driving

• cannabis and substance use

• mental health

• healthy relationships and sexual consent

• gender and sexual diversity

If you’re a youth between the ages of 13-21 and looking to make a positive difference in your community, apply today: https://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/youthsafety/national-youth-advisory-committee.

Martensville Fire Chief Kurtis Dyck Retires After 34 Years of Service

Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Martensville Fire Chief Kurtis Dyck is officially hanging up his fireman gear as he retires following 34 years of service with the Martensville Fire Department (MFD).

In 1990, Dyck decided to sign up as a volunteer firefighter with the Town of Martensville in order to become more involved with the community that he had called home his whole life. At the time, Dyck was working at the Martensville Service Centre gas station and mechanic shop, which allowed him to leave work if a call came in. This provided the opportunity to attend many calls and discover that he had a passion for firefighting and serving the community.

This passion led Dyck to pursue a career in firefighting, so he decided to apply to the City of Saskatoon Fire Department, where he was hired on in 1992 and worked his way up to Captain until his retirement approximately three years ago.

“I just knew it was what I wanted to do. It’s an exciting job and it can be very rewarding; not always, but it can be when you have the chance to help people,” Dyck said.

In 2012, Dyck was promoted into the role of Fire Chief with the MFD, a position that will now be held by former Deputy Fire Chief Dean Brooman. Brooman served his first day as Martensville Fire Department Fire Chief on Tuesday, May 21st.

Throughout the years, Dyck has seen many changes to the community, as well as the local fire department, including an increase in members and upgrades to equipment, in order to ensure they can provide the best possible protection to the community.

“Under his command, our service has seen significant growth, acquiring state of the art equipment and training opportunities, which have let to noteworthy advancements in our professionalism and overall capabilities of our fire service,” the MFD shared via social media in honour of their former Fire Chief. “Chief Dyck’s wisdom and leadership will be greatly missed.”

Dyck is looking forward to spending his retirement at the lake and is grateful for his years spent serving Martensville.

10th Annual Walk for Dog Guides Takes Place May 26th

Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Mark your calendars for Sunday, May 26th for an event that is sure to be fun for the whole family, including the dogs! The annual Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides will be taking place for its 10th year in Martensville at the Lions Heritage Park, located at 415 6th Avenue South.

The event is hosted by the Martensville & District Lions Club, in partnership with the Saskatoon Lions Club and will help raise funds and awareness for Dog Guides that are needed in Martensville and the surrounding communities.

Last year, over 40 dogs and approximately 80 people attended the event, which raised an estimated $16,000. Event organizer Doug Ward of the Martensville & District Lions Club hopes to beat last year’s total at the May 26th event.

Registration will begin at 1:00pm, followed by the walk at 2:00pm, which will go from the Heritage Centre to Cones Ice Cream in Kinsmen Park, where the dogs will be treated to pup cups sponsored by Wag Dog Daycare and Boarding. Once everyone returns to the Heritage Centre, there will be a BBQ sponsored by the Martensville Co-op and the City of Martensville. There will also be doggie bags for each handler and dogs as well as some door prizes and raffle prizes to give away.

The Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides takes place throughout the country each year, with all proceeds from the event going towards providing dog guides to those in need at no cost. According to Ward, there will be a new Hearing Guide Dog coming to a Martensville resident this summer.

Dog Guides are trained in one of seven different programs, which include; hearing, canine vision, seizure response, service, diabetes alert, autism assistance and facility support and in total, the process for a dog guide can cost upwards of $35,000.

Thanks to fundraisers such as this, individuals can receive these life-changing dog guides at no cost.

Donation collection sheets are available through the Martensville & District Lions Club, or can be made online at www.walkfordogguides.com. Tax receipts will be issued for donations of $20 or more.

“I would like to thank the residents and businesses of Martensville as well as some from Saskatoon for their continued support over the years. Especially like to thank The Pet Valu stores in Martensville, Warman, Market Mall and Kensington in Saskatoon for their support,” Ward stated.

For more information, contact Doug Ward at (306) 491-8914 or email fishforever1949@gmail.com. To register, donate, or learn more about the Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides, visit www.walkfordogguides.com.

BELOW: There was approximately 40 dogs and 80 people that took part in the 2023 Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides and the local Lions Club is hoping to draw an even larger attendance this year to help them raise more than the incredible $16,000 that they brought in last year.

Martensville Fire Chief Kurtis Dyck retired after 34 years of service to the MFD.

The Spring Monster Garage Sale will take place on Friday, May 24th & Saturday, May 25th for the City of Martensville and the City of Warman. Flyers will be available for pick up at gas stations, the MAP, and City Hall South Side:

jewelry, crafts, misc.

misc.

703 Clearwater Bay – household and seasonal

KEEPING YOU SAFE & ON THE ROAD

City of Martensville Looks to Provide Credit Card as Payment Option for Residents

Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Martensville City Council met for the final time this month on Tuesday, May 21st. The meeting began with an update from City administration department managers. Corporate Services noted in the report to Council that there is a goal to have Option Pay available for residents by this June, which would allow the City to now accept credit cards as a form of payment on water bills, property tax, invoices, etc. The report noted that this was not an option previously due to merchant fees being cost prohibitive; however, OptionPay uses a tiered fee system, which has provided a solution for municipalities.

It was also noted that property tax notices have been sent out to residents, along with assessment notices. According to the update to Council, there were 3998 property tax notices sent out, with 393 of those including assessment notices compared to 3947 property tax notices and 355 assessment notices in 2023. Property owners have until June 10th to appeal assessment notices.

The City of Martensville is looking at ways to convert more local residents to utilize e-billing, as postage costs continue to rise. There are plans in place to hold two targeted campaigns this year to help encourage this. Information on these campaigns will be included in monthly water bills and social media posts.

830 Rock Hill Ln – household, décor, travel items, misc. 918 Rock Hill Ln – household, toys, clothes

518 1st Ave S – multi-family – household, cothing 421 2nd Ave S – antiques, household, misc.

229 Ens Cres – household, clothing, toys 275 Cowen Cres – household, kid/baby, women’s clothing 318 Fehr Cres – household, kids, furniture 209 Glenwood Terr – reno materials, small appliances

Saturday, May 25

Ln – household, sporting equipment, garage

Ewles Pl – kitchen, décor, kids toys, books 216 Kinsmen Cres – household, bake sale, cotton candy 550 Klassen Cres – household, kids, clothing, lemonade

602 Klassen Cres – household, tools, garage 634 Klassen Hts – household

183 Beaudry Cres – household

291 Hebert Cres – kids clothing, baby items, household 160 Baycroft Dr – household, kids toys, clothing

190 Baycroft Dr – household, tools

20 Recreation Blvd – Traveland RV Massive Parts Sale

869 Manor Bay – collectables, books, kitchen, misc.

Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish Fundraising BBQ 11am – 1pm – Proceeds go to Hope Restored Martensville Library – Fundraising BBQ 11am to 1pm at the Coop

Public Notice Bylaw #12-2016

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN in accordance with Public Notice Policy Bylaw No. 12-2016 that the Council of the City of Martensville intends to consider a motion at the Regular Council meeting to be held on June 4, 2024, to pass a Bylaw to borrow $15,000,000.

REASON: To fund the construction of the Martensville Recreation Centre.

PUBLIC INSPECTION: Any person may inspect the bylaw at City Hall between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Copies are available at cost.

Issued at the City of Martensville this 23rd day of May 2024.

Carla Budnick City Clerk

Multiple items from last week’s Committee of the Whole meeting were brought back to Council for approval, including a request from the Martensville Curling Club to replace their current storage that is leaking with a shipping container, allocations for the 2024-2024 Sask Lotteries Grant Funding, amendments to the 2024 Capital Budget, and a request from the Sports Page to remove the frosting on the glass surrounding their patio.

The final item on the agenda was a discussion item from a resident on Cowan Crescent that was asking Council to look at parking solutions to discourage vehicles from being parked on a section of the street.

The next Martensville City Council meeting will take place on Tuesday, June 4th at 5pm in Council Chambers at City Hall. Information on this, and upcoming meetings can be found by visiting www. martensville.ca.

CELEBRATE

BUSTER DAYS MAY 31 TO JUNE 2

Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger

The ever-popular Martensville Buster Days returns with a long list of events planned for everyone next weekend! This year the community can look forward to the annual ball tournament, beer gardens, fireworks, parade, pancake breakfast, food trucks, petting zoo, and so much more.

Buster Days will be starting off with a splash on Friday, May 31 with Family Swim from 4pm until 6:30pm, followed by youth/teen swim night from 7:008:30pm. The ball diamonds will be busy Friday evening along with the beer gardens starting at 6pm. Party in the Park kicks off in the Beer Gardens with music from Mike Drop Productions starting at 9 pm and the fireworks display will end the night at Kinsmen Park starting around 10:00 pm.

Saturday morning starts off with the Pancake Breakfast at the North Ridge Community Centre put on by the Martensville Fire Department. Admission will be by donation. Fitness in the Park starts at 9:30am at Kinsmen Park with an outdoor Yoga class lead by one of the instructors from Soul Athletics. To participate you must bring your own yoga mat.

The streets will once again be lined with spectators for the parade, which will begin at 11am, with the route going along 4th Street South, 1st Ave. South, and Main Street. The afternoon will be filled with entertainment including the Money Pit, street hockey, inflatables, laser tag, airbrush tattoos, skateboarding, horse and wagon rides, boot camps, and lots of food trucks that will be set up at the MAP parking lot. Some of the food trucks available will be Smokes Poutinerie, Hawaiian Shaved Ice, Hectors Grub Hub, SmokeHaus, and Chow Queen to name a few.

The fun continues Sunday with ball, bingo, a petting zoo, skateboarding and more, as well as an Old Tyme Dance two stepping class for dancers of all ages.

There will be volunteers on hand all weekend selling 50/50 tickets at the MAP, North Ridge Community Centre, ball diamonds, and food truck areas. Tickets are $5, $10 for 3 or $20 for 10.

“Special thanks to our sponsors, North Ridge Development, Freeway Delivery Service, Lakeview Insurance Brokers, Pet Valu Martensville, Prairie Central District, SPRA, SaskWater, SaskEnergy, SaskTel, Allnorth, Poly Plus, Naidu Legal, Affinity Credit Union, Coop, Geransky Brothers Construction,” said Jamie McCulloch, Recreation Program Co-ordinator II with the City of Martensville.

“We are so excited to bring Buster Days back to Martensville for the 39th time! We have a full weekend of events happening and there is something for everyone. New this year is the Pet Valu Puppy Pose and Stretch and the Old Tyme Dance happening on Sunday at the North Ridge Community Centre. Presale Wristbands for Fun at the MAP are now on sale! See you on the 31st!” To find out all the details about the event, go to busterdays.com.

Large Sask. Party Turnover Problematic

Foes of the Saskatchewan Party were quick to characterize two more government MLA not running for reelection as rats leaving the sinking ship; how things often play out in the nasty world of politics. Overall, there seems little reason for worry. The good ship Sask. Party seems fine.

Even with what’s an admittedly significant 21 of the 48 MLAs it elected in 2020 not seeking office for the governing party in 2024, it still has the wind in its sails in rural Saskatchewan and elsewhere. No one is realistically predicting that the rival NDP or anyone will be able to sink the Sask. Party quite yet.

All that said, 21 of 48 MLAs not running again is a significant total; far more than the 20- to 25-per-cent turnover we usually see from election to election; however, the real story here may be why many of these Sask. Party MLAs are leaving; discontent, run-ins with the law or simple age and burnout.

In the latest development, Sask. Party MLAs Hugh Nerlien (Kelvington-Wadena) and Marv Friesen (Saskatoon Riversdale) announced last week they would not be running again.

Friesen, first elected in 2020 in what was once considered one of the strongest NDP seats in the province, explained in a statement he was dealing with health issues “that make it difficult” to continue.

Nerlien, first elected in 2016, said he changed his mind and would be “focusing on spending more time with family.” Both were acclaimed as Sask. Party candidates last August.

While neither had high public profiles and while Nerlien represents another strong rural seat in which most anyone carrying the Sask. Party colours is likely to win, these departures do feed at least part of the narrative that this is an aging government.

In February, the Sask. Party announced the loss of 80-years-worth of political experience when four veteran MLAs announced they were not running again: Finance Minister Donna Harpauer (Humboldt-Watrous) Government Relations Minister Don McMorris (Indian Head-Milestone) Crown Investments Corporation Minister Dustin Duncan (Weyburn-Big Muddy), and Advanced Education Gordon Wyant (Saskatoon Northwest).

All served in the most senior cabinet portfolios, as did former justice, labour, and CIC minister Don Morgan Saskatoon Southeast), who announced last August he would be retiring from politics after more than two decades as an MLA.

Also announcing they would be retiring from politics are Dana Skoropad (Arm River), Delbert Kirsch (Batoche), Fred Bradshaw (Carrot River Valley), Greg Ottenbreit (Yorkton), Ken Francis (Kindersley), and Gary Grewal (Regina Northeast).

Last year, Mark Docherty (Regina Coronation Park) and Lyle Stewart (Lumsden-Morse) both resigned, while Derek Myers (Regina Walsh Acres) lost his battle with cancer. That created the need for three byelections. The Sask. Party lost the two in the cities, affording the NDP some momentum.

Among other current sitting MLAs, Terry Dennis (Canora-Pelly) and Randy Weekes (Biggar-Sask Valley) both lost nominations in new constituencies altered by the change in the electoral boundary map.

Greg Lawrence (Moose Jaw Wakamow) and Ryan Domotor (Cut Knife-Turtleford), both were forced to resign from office late last year after being criminally charged.

Finally, Saskatchewan Rivers MLA Nadine Wilson resigned from the government caucus three years ago, after it was announced she misrepresented colleagues on her COVID-19 vaccine status.

Wilson is the only one who will not be running for the Sask. Party, but will be running again as a member of the Saskatchewan United Party.

Realistically, it seems likely the Sask. Party will easily win about 15 of these mostly rural 21 seats and even if it only wins half of them, they will still maintain a comfortable majority government, but the resignations do represent upheaval in the ranks and the problems with aging MLAs.

Maybe it’s not enough to defeat the Sask. Party, but there does seem to be issues with renewal.

Focus on Affordability

Affordability for Saskatchewan families remains a top priority in the 2024-25 provincial budget. Our government continues to introduce and enhance programs to make life more affordable for residents of the province.

Saskatchewan has among the lowest personal taxes in the country. Since 2007, Personal Income Tax (PIT) exemptions have removed 112,000 residents from the income tax roll. In total, PIT reductions during that time have provided over $830 million in annual income tax savings to Saskatchewan people. In 2024, Saskatchewan residents will save $70 million on their income taxes from indexation of the provincial income tax system.

A family of four pays no Provincial Income Tax on their first $59,475 of income. This is the highest tax-free threshold in Canada – and more than twice as much as in 2007, when a family of four began paying provincial income tax once their combined income reached just $26,150.

When combined with utilities and housing costs, Saskatchewan also comes out on top; the province is the most affordable place to live in Canada for a family of four when taxes, housing and utilities are considered.

In this year’s budget, Saskatchewan families will benefit from programs and services designed to make life more affordable, including the Active Families Benefit, Children’s Drug Plan and $10/day child care for children under the age of six, as well as programs to help fund insulin pumps and glucose monitors. The budget also includes a $4-million increase to continue to meet the needs of children and their families through the Autism Spectrum Disorder Individualized Funding Program.

For those looking to put down more permanent roots in their communities, the budget funds the PST Rebate on New Home Construction Program, which is helping make new home ownership more affordable. The Saskatchewan First-Time Homebuyers’ Tax Credit provides a non-refundable income tax credit of up to $1,050 to eligible taxpayers on qualified homes. Homeowners can benefit from the Saskatchewan Secondary Suite Incentive (SSI) Grant Program, which was developed to increase housing and rental availability in the province.

Further contributing to affordability in Saskatchewan is our government’s decision to stop SaskEnergy and SaskPower from collecting the carbon tax on natural gas and electric residential home heating. This is in addition to a SaskEnergy rate decrease that lowered bills for the average residential customer by nearly eight per cent beginning in October 2023.

Our government is providing additional funding support for people with disabilities in the budget. This includes $10.4 million in additional funding to support the changing service needs of current adult clients with intellectual disabilities, as well as the delivery of residential and day programs for new clients.

Saskatchewan students will benefit from $46.5 million in financial supports, including a new grant for low-income students with dependents. This program will help reduce financial barriers to completing their post-secondary education. The budget includes $34.4 million for the Student Aid Fund, which provides financial assistance to over 22,000 students every year, and $12.2 million in scholarships and bursaries.

The budget continues to deliver the Graduate Retention Program. It provides up to $20,000 in tax credits to post-secondary graduates who live and work in Saskatchewan, benefitting more than 81,600 graduates to date.

Saskatchewan seniors will also benefit from this year’s budget. The Seniors Income Plan offers eligible seniors up to $360 per month, while the monthly income threshold for the Personal Care Home Benefit will increase by $100 to $2,500 to help make the cost of living in a licensed personal care home more affordable. Other health care benefits for seniors include funding for the Senior Citizens Ambulatory Assistance Program, Seniors’ Drug Plan and Home Care services.

The budget provides support for the most vulnerable residents, helping low-income individuals and families meet their basic needs as they work to become more self-sufficient. The Saskatchewan Income Support Basic Shelter Benefit and Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability have both increased by three per cent.

As our government continues working to keep life in Saskatchewan affordable, I look forward to hearing from you.

Axe the Taxes for Summer

Submitted by MP Kelly Block

Kelly Block, MP is joining Pierre Poilievre and the Common Sense Conservatives in calling on Justin Trudeau to pause the carbon tax, the federal gas tax, and the GST for the summer to

bring some desperately needed relief for Canadians.

After nine years of Justin Trudeau, Canadians are being forced to cancel their summer vacations as the Liberals’ tax-and-spend agenda has made even a simple road trip unaffordable. Parents can barely afford basic necessities, much less a summer vacation.

Families will have to pay $700 more for food this year than they did in 2023. Last year, food banks had to handle a record 2 million visits in a single month, with a million more visits expected in 2024. Homeless encampments are common in every city across Canada.

MLA Terry Jenson’s Report from the Legislature Letter to the Editor

In the middle of this historic cost-of-living crisis, Trudeau and his NDP coalition partners decided to hike the carbon tax by 23 percent. This is just one step in his plan to quadruple the carbon tax over the next six years, making everything more expensive at the worst possible time. In fact, since Trudeau became Prime Minister, gas prices have surged by more than 50%.

The independent Parliamentary Budget Officer has confirmed that most families pay more in the carbon tax that they receive in the rebate. This year, Trudeau’s carbon tax will cost Saskatchewan families an extra $2618.

Common Sense Conservatives and I are calling on Trudeau to give Canadians a break this summer by axing the carbon tax, the gas tax, and the GST between Victoria Day and Labour Day so families can afford to take a simple summer vacation. This will save Saskatchewan families $860 this summer.

Conservatives will axe the tax on everything for everyone in a carbon tax election, but until that can happen, Trudeau must adopt this common sense measure to give Canadians a break this summer.

The Martensville Messenger welcomes letters to the editor for publication. Letters must be signed and a phone number and/or email address included so the writer’s identity can be verified. ALL letters are the opinion of the writer and NOT the Martensville Messenger. We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity or compliance with the current standards of public taste. Submit your letter to news@martensvillemessenger.ca or mail to Box 333 - Martensville, SK S0K 2T0.

Saskatchewan Housing Starts Soar by 82.2

Per Cent

Figures Show Saskatchewan's Strength as Housing Starts Surge

According to the latest data from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), in April 2024, urban housing starts in Saskatchewan increased by 82.2 per cent compared to April 2023.

"The surge in housing starts emphasize our unwavering dedication to building opportunities, creating new jobs and driving economic growth in communities across our province," Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison said. "This growth reaffirms that Saskatchewan is open for business and people want to make long-term investments in Saskatchewan. The province is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities and further reflects Saskatchewan as one of the most attractive jurisdictions in the country for capital investment."

In April 2024, housing starts on multiple units also increased by 184.9 per cent (from 93 units to 265 units), compared to April 2023.

Housing starts refers to the number of housing projects that started that month. The provincial economy has seen substantial growth recently. Exports continue to soar, totaling over $101.9 billion for 2022 and 2023 combined. This is a 52.2 per cent increase from the previous two-year period of 2020-2021, which saw $66.9 billion in total exports.

In 2023, Saskatchewan's population grew by over 30,000 people, which is the biggest population increase in over a century.

Private capital investment is projected to reach $14.2 billion in 2024, an increase of 14.4 per cent over 2023. This is the highest anticipated percentage increase in Canada.

The Government of Saskatchewan recently 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.

- One of the Pop-Up Rescue Project Dogs Still Looking for a Home

The Pop-Up Rescue Project still has a number of dogs available for adoption and regularly highlights each of these incredible animals on their Facebook page. Contact the Pop-Up Rescue Project directly if you are interested in fostering or adopting a dog and giving them the opportunity to see what a loving home looks like.

This week’s featured pup is Jessie. She is a sweet, smart, confident girl who is independent and curious. She is great at going off and entertaining herself if her foster siblings don’t want to play.

Jessie is 90% house-trained and will come to be let “outside”. She is also learning manners around food and walking on a leash. Jessie knows her name and commands such as sit, out (meaning not allowed) and come.

She is a busy girl, but at the end of the day, all she wants to do is cuddle before sleeping well through the night.

Jessie has her second set of vaccinations and is not spayed or microchipped yet. She is three months old and great with dogs and children. For more information on Jessie, one of the other available dogs, set up a meet and greet, or lend a helping hand by walking dogs or volunteering, send a message to the Pop-Up Rescue Project on Facebook.