This winter has been a challenging time for all of us and I couldn't be happier to be seeing signs of spring all around (including public works seasonal changeovers!). I feel a growing sense of optimism and hope. I also know that now is not the time to let our guards down around COVID-19. I attended a presentation on COVID-19 Variants of Concern by our local medical officer of health yesterday and was advised that as of now, in Saskatchewan, we're behind in the race between vaccinations and variants. There is much uncertainty yet and it is time to continue to keep our bubbles tight, wash hands, wear masks, and limit activities where we can. I urge you to continue monitoring for symptoms and get tested immediately if you observe any - even mild ones. In light of this, I hope you find some joy in spending time outdoors in the warming weather - perhaps even gathering with loved ones in the sun!

Updates

As discussed last month, the Ministry of Education provided funding to the Saskatoon Public School Division (SPSD) for their consolidated city centre school project which will see 3 schools (Princess Alexandra, Pleasant Hill, and King George) replaced with one. Initially, it was set that SPSD would build the school on Ave H at the Princess Alexandra school site, but they have recently opened up their consideration. The City is allowing exploration of Optimist Park as a potential location, but only alongside the exploration of other underutilized sites in the West Industrial area. Thank you to all who continue to engaged on this file. There is lots yet to figure out including the future uses of the sites that will be vacated by the SPSD when they move their operations to the new building - wherever that ends up being.

I've also been receiving a number of questions about the recent report to City Council about the lead service lines that will remain after the City has replaced all of it's lines. These are private-side lines that were not replaced (by choice of the owner at the time) when the adjacent City lines were replaced. There are approximately 350 of them in the city, mostly in older neighbourhoods in Ward 2 and 6. Council must now decide whether to require their replacement and if so, whether to subsidize any of this work as has been done when the work is paired with public-side replacements. More here under item 7.3.1. Please note: this decision will not impact residents whose lines are scheduled to be replaced alongside public-side lines this year or in the next few years. If you're not sure what the status of the lines leading to your property are, please email [email protected] to inquire.

Ward 2 News & Engagements

- There are a few engagements coming up that we've been anticipating. Dates aren't yet set, but I can update that we should expect engagements on the following files soon: 
    - West Circle Drive project - engagement likely in April
    - Utility Scale Solar Project - engagement likely in May
Stay tuned here and on my social media for updates. Residents most directly impacted will receive flyers.
- The Holiday Park/King George Neighbourhood Traffic Review recommendations were presented to the Transportation committee earlier this month. There is no consensus on the pinch point solution proposed for Ave I South, but I have yet to find a better solution, so, as of now, I am open to endorsing it for a temporary installation and trial. 
- Proposals stemming from the Traffic Review in Gordie Howe Management Area, West Industrial, and Southwest Industrial area are available for feedback now. Recommendations are primarily on 11th St W, Ave P South, and Ave W South. Please take a look and provide your feedback before April 16th.
- There is a lot of construction planned in our areas this summer including a major watermain replacement and road/sidewalk repair project on 20th Street. Check out the video for more info about what to expect, and for info about construction projects in general, the construction map has upcoming work marked.

City News

- The City Transportation team has started engagement on the Speed Limit Review. Please take a few minutes to learn more about the reason for exploring it and potential impacts then provide your feedback through the online survey.
- Spring program registration is open for city recreation programs! 
- The City wants to hear your thoughts on a Renewable Energy Strategy.
- The recommended options for the Water Conservation strategy are drafted and ready for your feedback until April 1.
- There are 3 calls open for Public Art - plinths, placemaker projects, and traffic boxes.
- Winners have been announced for this year's Living in Harmony awards. Congratulations to all! Watch the video here.
- Registration for the curbside green cart program is open now. Register/renew before April 30th for earlybird rates! 

Community News

- March is Cultural Diversity and Race Relations month. The City is recognizing this with our partners and I encourage you to think about how you can recognize the work yet to do to make our community a place of opportunity and wellbeing for all, free of racism and discrimination.
- Many community associations are planning their spring community cleanups. If you have a hand (or truck) to lend, get in touch with yours today and watch your mailbox for the spring newsletter!  
- Nuit Blanche is underway! If you didn't get out to check out the art installations last night, tonight is your chance! 
- The Caswell Hill Community Association partnered up with Free Flow Dance and is presenting 'DisDances' - a dance performance outside March 25-28. Registration required.
- Check out the Energy Assistance Program through SaskPower that aims to help lower income households tackle high energy bills through home upgrades - fully covered! Saskatoon Light and Power customers are also eligible!

City Council | March 22

City Council meets virtually on Monday. Brief highlights are outlined below. Click here to find the full agenda. Council continues to meet virtually. Correspondence on Council items can be made in writing or as a request to speak (accommodated by phone). Meetings will continue to be live streamed.

Regular Business Meeting  |  1:00 PM

  - Property Tax & Utility - deferral request from hotel partners
  - Property Tax policy - residential/commercial ratio
  - Swale education, communications, partnerships
  - Hydrant Inspection report
  - Flood Control - Churchill Park
  - Urban Forestry Management Plan
  - Transportation Master Plan
  - Loading zone policy amendments - for Canada Post
  - Absences & Support for Councillors
  - Appointment of City Clerk
  - CUPE 859 - contract negotiations
  - Bylaw - Vehicles for Hire amendment
Motions: 
  - Kirton - Roadway connection - Fortosky Cres & Hart Road

Public Hearing Meeting  |  6:00 PM

  - Rosewood Concept Plan & Rezoning - Greyeyes Steele way
  - Brighton - Concept Plan amendment
  - Fire Station 5 - Median Opening on Preston
  - Proclamations & Flag Raisings