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Your City; Your Newspaper September 10, 2026

VOLUME NO. 20 - ISSUE 36

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Celebrating Ukrainian Culture Through Dance

Dancers from Sonia’s School of Ukrainian Dance take the stage during Ukrainian Day in the Park at Kiwanis Memorial Park in Saskatoon on August 29, 2026. The annual celebration brought the community together to showcase Ukrainian culture and heritage through traditional dance, music, food and festivities.

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Page 2 - SEPTEMBER 10, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

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. September 15 – Regular Council Meeting October 6 – Regular Council Meeting October 13 – 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.

Regular City Council Meeting Recap – August 25 • Council approved the discretionary use application from FHD Mechanical Inc., requesting approval to establish a Machine Shop at 925 8th Street South. • Council approved the reallocation of $35,000 in 2026 Capital Funds for emergent repairs at Mocon and Chrome Dome Ball Diamonds. The proposed work includes leveling low areas within the ball diamond infields and completing a topographic survey in response to standing water issues significantly impact field availability and playability. • Council authorized the City Manager & Mayor to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Lake Vista II Phase 1 development. This allows the proposed Lake Vista II Phase 1 development to advance ahead of the Master Servicing Agreement completion. • Council approved the proposed amendment to the Naming of Civic Property and Development Areas Policy #123/26. The amendment clarifies that voting members are appointed for four-year terms following a municipal election, rather than annually, providing consistency with other Council-appointed committees. • The City Manager sought feedback from City Council on the proposed Fire Service Contract between the City of Martensville and the RM of Corman Park. • Council authorized Administration to negotiate a reasonable agreement with the RM of Corman Park and the City of Saskatoon regarding the Biosolids Pipeline Corridor.

Martensville Council Focuses on Public Engagement and Governance Review Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Martensville City Council reviewed a relatively light agenda during its Committee of the Whole meeting on Tuesday, September 8th, with discussions focusing largely on public engagement and a mid-term review of council governance. The meeting included three reports from administration: a mid-term governance check-in, the community engagement component of the City’s Transportation Master Plan and a new Public Engagement Framework. Community Input Planned for Transportation Master Plan Council reviewed the proposed community engagement process for Martensville’s Transportation Master Plan (TMP), which is being developed to establish a long-term framework for transportation infrastructure, mobility, connectivity, accessibility and safety as the community continues to grow. Two rounds of public and stakeholder engagement were proposed. The first is expected to begin this fall and will focus on learning how residents currently experience Martensville’s transportation network, identifying issues and barriers and establishing priorities for future improvements. A second round is planned for spring 2027, when residents and stakeholders will have an opportunity to review and provide feedback on draft recommendations before the Transportation Master Plan is finalized. The engagement process is expected to use a variety of methods, including online and hard-copy surveys, social media, newsletters, signage, workshops, stakeholder meetings and pop-up events. The first round will focus on listening to the community and identifying transportation issues, safety concerns, accessibility barriers, active transportation needs and challenges related to future growth. Feedback will then be used alongside technical findings to help establish the vision, goals and priorities of the Transportation Master Plan. Targeted stakeholder discussions are also planned with provincial and regional partners, school divisions and parent groups, community and accessibility organizations, developers and commercial interests, and the local business community. City Reviews Public Engagement Framework Council also reviewed the City’s newly developed Public Engagement Framework, which is intended to establish a more consistent approach to how public engagement is planned and carried out across the organization. The framework began development earlier this year and was refined through additional research and input from City leadership and management. Its goal is to ensure public engagement is meaningful while also involving communications staff earlier in project planning.

2026 Lane and General Clean-Up Program The City will once again be having its annual Lane and General Clean-up Program this September. This initiative allows residents to dispose of items that are not accepted during regular garbage pick-ups. Our Public Works department, in collaboration with the Urban Camp, will collect eligible items on specific dates, which are listed below: - Residents that live South of Main Street will have their items picked up the week of September 14 - 18. All items will need to be out by September 14 - 8:00 AM. - Residents that live North of Main Street will have their items picked up the week of September 21 - 25. All items will need to be out by September 21 - 8:00 AM. Please Remember: - The City will be making one pass only. - All residents with back lanes shall not place any items out in the lane until one week prior to pick-up each year. - All residents without back lanes shall not place any items curbside until one day before pickup. For additional information, please visit Martensville.ca

Martensville Show & Shine – September 12 | 10:00am – 2:00pm The Martensville Show & Shine is back September 12 on Centennial Drive, showcasing some of the best classic and custom cars in the region! For the safety of pedestrians and motorists, Centennial Drive North will be fully closed from A&W to Lakeview Insurance during the event. Please follow all signage and directions from event staff. For maps and additional info, visit martensville.ca Vehicle traffic needing to travel north on Centennial Drive should use 1st Avenue North or an alternative route to access businesses located north of the barricades during show hours. Businesses in the area remain accessible, but motorists should plan for the temporary road closure and allow additional time when travelling through the area. Show cars may park within the closed section of Centennial Drive, using the full width of the street. No registration is required. Additional designated show car parking will be available at the Checkered Flag parking lot, south area of the Co-op Food Store parking lot, and Martensville Baptist Church.

Under the proposed framework, City staff would consider public engagement at the beginning of a project or initiative and determine whether engagement is appropriate and, if so, what level should be used. The framework follows the International Association for Public Participation model, which includes five levels of engagement: Inform, Consult, Involve, Collaborate and Empower. The appropriate level would depend on factors such as the complexity of a project, its impact on the community and how much opportunity the public has to influence the outcome. The framework also stresses that engagement should be purposeful rather than undertaken simply to “check a box.” Public participation is considered most valuable when decisions can still be influenced, multiple options are being considered, community knowledge could improve the outcome or a project is expected to have a significant impact on residents. Council Takes Mid-Term Look at Governance With council reaching the midpoint of its term, administration also brought forward a governance check-in to determine whether current council processes continue to work well for council, administration and the public. The review covered council meeting dates, the Deputy Mayor schedule, Council Remuneration Policy and Council Procedure Bylaw. Rather than recommending specific changes, administration asked council to identify areas it would like reviewed further, with potential options or amendments to be brought back at a later date. Administration specifically sought feedback on whether the current number of council members permitted to attend the Federation of Canadian Municipalities conference remains sufficient. Council was also given the opportunity to raise potential changes to the Procedure Bylaw, which governs matters including agendas, delegations, motions, debate, voting, reconsideration and public participation at council and committee meetings. The next Council meeting will take place on September 15th at 5:00pm in Council Chambers at City Hall. For more information visit www.martensville.ca.

MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - SEPTEMBER 10, 2026 - Page 3

Martensville Fire Department Visit Creates Memorable Experience for Local Families

Fuel Good Day to Support Martensville Food Pantry Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger

Martensville residents can turn a routine trip to the gas station into support for a local organization when Fuel Good Day returns Tuesday, September 15.

Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

This year, the Martensville Food Pantry has been selected as the local beneficiary of the annual fundraiser at the Martensville Coop Gas Bar. Throughout the day, five cents from every litre of gasoline or diesel sold will be donated by Martensville Co-op to the local recipient. That means residents can contribute simply by choosing September 15 to fill their vehicle. The money will support an organization that is playing an important role in addressing food insecurity close to home. According to Saskatoon Co-op, the Martensville Food Pantry currently provides assistance to approximately 100 to 120 people every week. Its motto, “Helping Halt Hunger Here at Home,” reflects the local focus of its work and the importance of community support in helping the pantry continue to provide food for individuals and families who need it. Fuel Good Day isn't limited to donations made at the pumps. Residents can also contribute in the days leading up to the event. From now until September 15, customers can purchase a paper Fuel Good Pump at participating Co-op locations and choose the amount they would like to donate. Those contributions go to the designated organization in that community. The 2026 event also marks a milestone for Fuel Good Day, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. Since the initiative was launched in 2017, Fuel Good Day has generated more than $5.6 million for community organizations and causes throughout Western Canada. While the overall total demonstrates how much the program has grown, the purpose of the Martensville event remains distinctly local. Each litre purchased on September 15 will help raise funds for the Martensville Food Pantry and the approximately 100 to 120 people it assists each week. Fill up the tank, fuel a good cause and help support neighbours in need — right here at home.

The Martensville-Warman Early Years Family Resource Centre recently had the opportunity to get an up-close look at a real-life firetruck during a special visit from the Martensville Fire Department. Members of the MFD were invited to visit the MWEYFRC to provide children and their families the chance to explore and learn more about their local fire department. The visit gave families an opportunity to ask questions and learn about the important role firefighters play in keeping the community safe, while the children were able to see the emergency vehicle and its equipment up close. “The children were thrilled to tour the emergency vehicle up close, and our families loved having the opportunity to ask questions and learn all about the incredible work our local firefighters do to keep our community safe,” the Martensville-Warman Early Years Family Resource Centre stated. The centre said seeing the excitement on the children’s faces helped make the visit an unforgettable experience. There is always something new and exciting happening at MWEYFRC, so be sure to follow them on social media or visit https:// www.mwfamilycentre.ca/ for updates on upcoming events.

Martensville Food Pantry Offering Thanksgiving Dinner Hampers Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

The Martensville Food Pantry (MFP) is once again helping ensure local families experiencing financial difficulties can enjoy a Thanksgiving meal this year. The organization is currently accepting requests for its Thanksgiving Dinner Hampers, which are available to those needing some additional support in the Martensville area. Those wishing to request a hamper are asked to text 306-280-1255 no later than September 30th. Applicants will need to provide their full name, the number of adults and children in their household and proof of address. Thanksgiving hamper pickups will be scheduled for October 8th. The seasonal hampers are one of several ways the Martensville Food Pantry works throughout the year to support local individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. In addition to its Thanksgiving program, the

organization provides weekly food hampers and special dinner hampers at Easter and Christmas. For those interested in contributing to the cause, the MFP can issue tax receipts for financial donations of $20 or more. With the motto “Helping Halt Hunger Here at Home,” the organization continues to rely on support from the community to help ensure local residents have access to food when they need it most. Contact the MFP at martensvillefoodpantry@gmail. com or text (306) 280-1255.

Page 4 - SEPTEMBER 10, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Martensville A&W Valley Street Stock 100 & Show n’ Shine Returns September 12 Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

A long-running Martensville tradition will bring classic cars, racing and plenty of community spirit together on Saturday, September 12th, as the Martensville A&W Valley Street Stock 100 returns for another year. The day will begin at Martensville A&W, where drivers and cars from the Street Stock Invitational will be on hand from 9:00am to 12:00pm. The annual A&W Show & Shine Car Show will run from 10:00am to 2:00pm along Centennial Drive North before activities shift to Sutherland Automotive Speedway later in the afternoon. For Martensville A&W’s Rachelle Buffin, the event has become much more than a car show. “Community involvement has always been really important to us,” Buffin said. “A&W has that nostalgia with the vintage cars. That’s kind of part of A&W’s culture from back in the day, so it’s nice to keep that going.” Although Buffin isn’t certain of the exact year the event began, she estimated her father started it around 2006 or 2007, several years after the Martensville A&W opened in 2001. What began as a small gathering with only a few vehicles in the restaurant parking lot continued to grow year after year. “It was very small. It just started in the parking lot and there were just a few cars,” Buffin explained. “Then it just became a bigger thing each year, and then the parking lot was super full.” Eventually, the event expanded onto Centennial Drive and into surrounding areas to accommodate the growing number of participants. In recent years, Buffin said the Show & Shine has attracted approximately 200 vehicles. The Martensville Lions Club registers vehicles as they arrive, allowing organizers to keep track of participation and include entrants in draws. Buffin said one of the most impressive parts of the event is seeing the passion owners have for their vehicles and the wide variety of car clubs represented. “It’s a real eye-opener to see how many people have these beautiful classic vehicles and hold on to them and take care of them,” she said. The event has also grown beyond the cars themselves, with nearby businesses benefiting from

increased foot traffic and some offering sidewalk sales or specials throughout the day. “The community comes together, and it’s really nice to see the other businesses taking advantage of it because there’s a lot of walking traffic,” Buffin said. “It’s just become an annual community event.” For Buffin, one of the highlights is simply getting the chance to mingle with those who come out. “I think my favorite thing about the day is walking around and talking to all of the people that come out,” she said, adding that A&W hands out lollipops and balloons and brings out the Root Bear for the kids. “ T h e little kids get so pumped, and the parents are taking pictures with the kids and the Root Bear. It’s just really special.” Buffin credited the Martensville Lions Club for its longstanding role in helping make the event possible, including registering vehicles and volunteering throughout the day. “A huge shout-out and thank you to them because they are just so helpful on so many things when it comes to this,” she said. “They donate a lot of their time.” Following the Show & Shine, the action will move to Sutherland Automotive Speedway, with gates opening at 3:00pm and the green flag dropping at 5:00pm. Martensville A&W is the title sponsor of the Valley Street Stock 100, a 100-lap feature race expected to begin at approximately 7:15pm. A&W will also bring the Root Bear and balloons to the speedway for young racing fans.

“The turnout there is unbelievable,” Buffin said. “There are so many kids, and it’s so great when we go down there with the Root Bear. We take probably 200 balloons and all the kids come running down.” For Buffin, the combination of familiar faces, local businesses, families and community organizations is what has kept the event special as Martensville has grown. “I think it’s really good for the town, I know we’re technically a city, but there’s something about this event that kind of gives the city still that small-town feel,” Buffin added. Buffin also encouraged residents to come out Saturday, whether they are dedicated car enthusiasts or simply looking for something to do with the family. “I would just encourage everyone to come out and check out the vehicles and walk around,” Buffin said. “It’s a good time to check out the other businesses if they haven’t yet. Everything’s pretty close together.”

Martensville Kinsmen and Kinettes Teachers Fund Returns to Support Local Classrooms Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Teachers in Martensville and Warman who have an idea for their classroom but lack the resources to make it happen are once again getting a helping hand from two local service clubs. The Martensville & District Kinsmen and Kinette Clubs have opened applications for their Teachers Fund, a joint initiative that provides financial assistance to educators for classroom materials, equipment, activities and other projects that benefit students. For Martensville & District Kinettes Service Director and founding President Jodi Martens-Bergman, the motivation behind the fund was simple: teachers are often spending their own money to give students opportunities they otherwise might not have. “We’re aware of the lack of funding from the school districts and the lack of resources that the teachers have, and how much money they’re putting out of their own pockets,” Martens-Bergman said. “We didn’t think that was fair.” Through the fund, teachers can apply for up to $450 per request, with applications open to educators from kindergarten through high school in both Martensville and Warman. The Teachers Fund was launched last year and quickly demonstrated just how much demand exists for additional classroom resources, as Martens-Bergman estimated that approximately 30 requests were funded during the program’s first year, with approximately $10,000 distributed to teachers. Those requests covered everything from books and sensory tools to gym equipment and creative classroom projects. The Teachers Fund is jointly supported by the Martensville & District Kinsmen and Kinettes, with each club contributing $5,000 toward the initiative this year. Money raised through the Kinettes' annual Ladies Night fundraiser helped finance their portion of the fund. The project fits directly with the clubs' focus on “serving the community’s greatest needs.” For particularly large requests that fall outside what the Teachers Fund can accommodate, Martens-Bergman said some educators have also approached the Kinsmen directly, with the club providing funding for larger-ticket projects. Even more money will be available to teachers this year thanks to additional donations from members of the community. Local businesses and community members interested in supporting the initiative are welcome to reach out to the clubs, as additional support is always welcome.

Applications are currently open and there is no set application deadline. Teachers can continue submitting requests throughout the school year until the available funding has been distributed. The Kinsmen and Kinettes hope to continue offering the Teachers Fund annually, provided they can continue raising enough money to support it. “Keep supporting the Kinettes' events so that we can continue to keep the fund alive,” Martens-Bergman said. “As long as we can keep the money coming in, we will continue to support our local teachers.” Teachers interested in applying for funding can complete the Teachers Fund application form here https:// docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfAenL7F7UVWV4Cw7C62H9ysWLnBM86f4 NJUO9wav3r1ZGuFQ/viewform.

New Members Always Welcome at Local Kinette Club

The Martensville & District Kinettes are kicking off another year with their first meeting being held on Tuesday, September 15th, upstairs in the old Martensville Arena. The club, which was chartered in 2019, currently has approximately 15 members and remains active in a variety of volunteer projects, fundraisers and community initiatives throughout the year. For those interested in joining, Service Director and founding President Jodi Martens-Bergman said the commitment is flexible. “Honestly, it’s whatever you want to make it for yourself. You can do as much or as little,” she said. The club meets once a month and encourages members to participate in at least one event throughout the year. Anyone interested in learning more can attend the upcoming meeting, message the club through social media or email martensvillekinettes@gmail.com

Martensville Community Support Preparing for October Launch Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

A new community-based initiative is preparing to officially launch in Martensville with a simple goal at its core, neighbours helping neighbours. Martensville Community Support (MCS) will officially launch October 1st, providing emergency food assistance, basic necessities and connections to other resources for local individuals and families experiencing difficult times. “Sometimes someone doesn't need long-term assistance; they just need a little help getting through a difficult week or month,” MCS co-founder Melissa Zimmer said. “We want MCS to be a place where residents feel comfortable reaching out without judgment and know that their community is there for them.” MCS was founded by four Martensville residents, Michael, David, Leanne and Melissa, who wanted to create a support system specifically for their community. While other resources are available in the surrounding area, Zimmer said transportation and accessibility can sometimes create barriers. “We wanted something that was truly local, Martensville residents helping Martensville residents,” she said. The need became apparent before the organization had even officially launched. MCS recently received its first request for emergency food assistance from a local family of four. “We weren't officially operating yet, but of course we helped,” Zimmer said. “That really reinforced for us that the need is already here.” Zimmer said financial hardship isn't always obvious, with working families, seniors, single parents and individuals sometimes struggling quietly to afford groceries after paying other necessities. “People don't necessarily tell their neighbours that their cupboards are empty or that they're having trouble making ends meet,” she said. MCS will focus on Martensville residents experiencing a genuine need. Those seeking assistance can contact the organization through its Facebook page ‘Martensville Community Support’ and may be asked for basic information about their household, what assistance is needed and confirmation of Martensville residency. As the October launch approaches, MCS is accepting non-perishable food, snacks, drinks, toiletries and household necessities. Financial donations are also welcomed, allowing the organization to purchase fresh food or specific items needed by a family. “Every donation matters,” Zimmer said. “It doesn't have to be a large contribution to make a difference.” Volunteers are also needed to collect and sort donations, prepare and deliver hampers and assist with future community initiatives. Zimmer said even a few hours of someone's time can make a difference. Ultimately, the group hopes to create a reliable support network residents know they can turn to when life becomes difficult. “The biggest thing we want people to understand is that asking for help is okay,” Zimmer said. “Life can change very quickly. Someone who is in a position to donate today could find themselves needing a little assistance someday.” “We want this to truly belong to Martensville, supported by the community, powered by the community and here for the community. Neighbours helping neighbours.”

MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - SEPTEMBER 10, 2026 - Page 5

Back-to-Back Champion Huskies Set to Hit the Ice in Martensville Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger

Hockey fans in Martensville and Warman will get an early look at the defending Canada West champions this Friday when the University of Saskatchewan Huskies men’s hockey team takes on the University of Calgary Dinos in exhibition action at the Martensville Recreation Centre. The game comes as the Huskies begin preparations for the 2026–27 season following a memorable year that saw Saskatchewan capture its second consecutive Canada West championship. For local fans, the matchup also offers an opportunity to watch a Huskies roster with plenty of familiar Saskatchewan connections — including Warman’s Josh Pillar, a former Saskatoon Blade who has been part of both of the Huskies’ recent championship teams. Pillar played his minor hockey in the area before spending parts of five seasons with the Saskatoon Blades in the Western Hockey League. Pillar was selected by the Minnesota Wild in the fourth round of the 2021 NHL Draft and has since become an important part of the Huskies. During the 2025–26 season, Pillar recorded seven goals and nine assists and once again helped Saskatchewan make a deep postseason run. Now a member of back-to-back Canada West championship teams, Pillar will have the opportunity to play particularly close to home when the Huskies take the ice Friday in Martensville. The Huskies continue to draw heavily from Saskatchewan and have added more familiar names for the upcoming season. Among the additions is defenceman Morgan Tastad, who spent three seasons with the Saskatoon Blades. The Huskies have also added more players with Saskatchewan and WHL connections, joining a roster that already includes a significant contingent of former Blades. That familiarity should make Friday’s game particularly interesting for fans who have followed junior hockey in Saskatoon and the surrounding communities. Friday’s exhibition game will also feature one of Saskatchewan’s familiar Canada West rivals, the Calgary Dinos who will give the Huskies a strong early test as they prepare to defend their conference title. Make sure you take advantage at a chance to watch high-level university hockey right here in Martensville — and perhaps get an early glimpse of a Huskies team capable of making another run at a Canada West championship. Game time is 7pm, tickets are $15/adult, $5/youth (4-18), and are available at University of Saskatchewan| Huskie Athletics Ticketing - Pre-Season Men's Hockey vs. the Calgary Dinos.

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Page 6 - SEPTEMBER 10, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Saskatchewan Adds 2,600 Jobs in August While the rest of Canada lost nearly 42,000 jobs in August, Saskatchewan's strong, steady economy created 2,600 jobs. Saskatchewan's unemployment rate is the third lowest amongst provinces at 6.0 per cent, below the national average of 6.4 per cent. "Saskatchewan's strong, steady economy continues to outpace the rest of Canada," Immigration and Career Training Minister Eric Schmalz said. "By working with industry and supporting workers, we are building the workforce our economy needs today and into the future." Strong growth in the private sector resulted in 18,200 jobs being added, an increase of 4.9 per cent year-over-year. This was reflected through gains in key sectors including construction, which added 6,100 jobs, an increase of 12.2 per cent from last August. Major year-over-year gains were also reported for manufacturing, up 4,900 (18.3 per cent increase) and finance, insurance, real estate and leasing, up 3,500 (11.8 per cent increase). Saskatchewan's two biggest cities also saw year-over-year growth. Compared to August 2025, Saskatoon's employment was up 1,300, an increase of 0.6 per cent, and Regina's employment was up 5,000, an increase of 3.3 per cent. Saskatchewan continues to show economic growth in other areas. Saskatchewan ranked second amongst provinces for year-over-year growth in urban housing starts and first amongst provinces for growth in month-over-month building permits. This economic growth is backed by the Government of Saskatchewan's Building the Workforce for a Growing Economy: The Saskatchewan Labour Market Strategy, a roadmap to build the workforce needed to support Saskatchewan's strong and growing economy, and Securing the Next Decade of Growth: Saskatchewan's Investment Attraction Strategy, a plan to increase investment in the province and to further advancing Saskatchewan's Growth Plan goal of $16 billion in private capital investment annually.

Government Responds to Rate Review Panel Recommendations

SGI will be moving forward with a 3.75 per cent overall Auto Fund rate increase, with rate rebalancing, effective June 1, 2027, following the recommendations of the Saskatchewan Rate Review Panel (SRRP). Government has also formally approved the 3.75 per cent increase for 2026, confirming the increase that took effect on June 1, 2026. The Auto Fund remains under significant pressure with record claims again this summer. The panel's report acknowledged the significant financial challenges facing the Saskatchewan Auto Fund, including rising claims costs and inflation, and recognized the need for action to support the long-term sustainability of the Auto Fund. While the panel recommended an immediate 6.5 per cent capital margin increase, the government directed SGI to proceed with the lower rate increase originally proposed for June 1, 2027. This approach balances affordability concerns with the Auto Fund's financial needs. Unlike a capital margin increase, which applies equally across all vehicle classes, SGI's rate-setting approach aligns rates with the anticipated claim costs of each vehicle class. "The panel's recommendations recognize that claim costs and inflation are putting significant financial pressure on the Rate Stabilization Reserve and overall Auto Fund sustainability," Minister Responsible for SGI Jeremy Harrison said. "Our government’s response balances those financial realities with our commitment to affordability for Saskatchewan drivers.” The average annual increase for Saskatchewan vehicle owners in 2027 is expected to be about $39.00. Auto Fund rates are based on anticipated claim costs for each make, model and year of vehicle. Rate rebalancing will continue to ensure rates better reflect the claim costs associated with different vehicle types. Following the 2027 rate increase, Saskatchewan will still have among the lowest basic auto insurance rates in Canada.

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Letter to the Editor 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 Residents Support Social Media Limits for Youth

The results are in from the province-wide survey seeking Saskatchewan residents' opinions on social media limits for youth. The Government of Saskatchewan received responses from communities across the province showing public support for increased safeguards online. Of those who responded to the question, "Do you support social media limits for children under the age of 16?" 86.34 per cent answered yes, while 13.66 per cent answered no. "Thank you to the thousands of Saskatchewan residents who took the time to share their views," Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr said. "The results have been shared with the Federal Government and the feedback received will help inform Saskatchewan's participation in broader discussions regarding online safety and the wellbeing of young people." The survey sought feedback on potential restrictions for major social media platforms, including TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Snapchat. Respondents were also asked what age should apply to any potential restrictions. A majority indicated that social media limits should apply to youth aged 16 and under. While respondents generally supported restrictions across all platforms included in the survey, YouTube was the platform most frequently identified as warranting an exemption from limits. "Over the past two years, we have travelled across Saskatchewan and spoken with thousands of youth, parents and educators through our online harms prevention program," Youth Matter Canada Executive Director Laura Lawrence said. "The message we have heard has been very clear: the addictive design of digital platforms like social media and YouTube, combined with the prevalence of harmful content and online predators, poses a real risk to the mental health and wellbeing of our children and teens. Age-appropriate access is an important first step, but it can not be the only one. Education, awareness of online harms, and healthy boundaries around when and how technology is used are all essential to protecting young people and helping them build a healthier relationship with technology." Youth Matter Canada is a Saskatchewan-based non-profit organization focused on supporting youth mental health through education, programming, and community engagement. The Government of Saskatchewan will use the survey results to support ongoing discussions with the Federal Government on potential measures to strengthen online protection for children and youth.

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Page 8 - SEPTEMBER 10, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Traffic Stop Leads to Drug and Firearm Charges Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

A traffic stop in Saskatoon involving Corman Park Police Service (CPPS) officers resulted in drug and firearm charges against two men on September 1st. Shortly after 6:00pm, CPPS officers were travelling near Marquis Drive and Faithful Avenue when they noticed a vehicle with British Columbia licence plates. A records check showed the registration had been expired since 2014, prompting officers to conduct a traffic stop. During the stop, officers formed the opinion that the driver was impaired by drugs. The driver completed a Standardized Field Sobriety Test and, after performing poorly, was arrested. While officers worked to confirm ownership of the vehicle, they discovered the passenger had an outstanding warrant. He was arrested and searched, with officers locating suspected controlled substances on his person. With both occupants under arrest, police searched the vehicle as part of the impaired driving and drug investigation. According to CPPS, officers located additional suspected controlled substances as well as a 12-gauge shotgun. A 30-year-old Regina man and a 22-year-old Southey man are now facing charges of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, unsafe transportation of a firearm, unauthorized possession of a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon and possession of a controlled substance. The vehicle was impounded for 60 days, while the driver received a 120-day licence suspension and two additional offence notices. Both men were transported to Saskatoon Police Service cells, where they were processed and held for a disposition hearing before a Hearing Officer. CPPS noted the incident demonstrates how proactive traffic enforcement intended to improve road safety can sometimes lead to more serious criminal investigations. The charges have not been proven in court.

Martensville Fire Department Recruiting Paid On-Call Firefighters

The Martensville Fire Department (MFD) is looking for new members to join its team as Paid On-Call Firefighters/First Responders. No previous firefighting experience is required, with MFD providing successful recruits with the training and support needed to get started. The department is also encouraging Grade 12 students interested in pursuing a career in emergency services to consider joining as Junior Firefighters, providing an opportunity to begin gaining valuable experience, skills and knowledge in the field. Those interested in learning more are invited to attend a Recruit Information Night on Tuesday, September 15th at 7:00pm at the Martensville Fire Hall, located at 427 Centennial Drive South. The evening will give prospective recruits an opportunity to meet members of the department, learn more about the role, ask questions and get a better idea of what being part of MFD involves. Anyone unable to attend the information night or who has questions about joining the department can contact Deputy Chief Taylor at jtaylor@martensville.ca.

Saskatoon Police Investigating Shoplifting Incident Involving Knife Threat

Saskatoon Police are investigating following a shoplifting incident where a security officer was threatened on Thursday. On September 3, 2026 at around 12:15 p.m., police were called to a business in the 100 block of Primrose Drive for a weapons call where it was reported that there was a male shoplifter with a knife. Arriving officers learned the suspect was approached by security in the parking lot after leaving the store without paying. A brief altercation began before the suspect threatened to stab the security officer, then ran away. Police are continuing to investigate and anyone with information is asked to contact police at 306-975-8300 or submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477.

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