Funding for Saskatchewan Urban Parks
Year: 2024
Resolution
WHEREAS, Provincial Grant funding has been cut affecting urban parks throughout Saskatchewan, namely the Pehonan Parkway in Prince Albert, Wakamow in Moose Jaw, Chinook Parkway in Swift Current, Battleford River Valley in the Battlefords and Tatagwa in Weyburn; and
WHEREAS, municipalities have invested budgeted monies, grants and funding through strong community partnerships to build functional, beautiful urban park spaces for residents and visitors; and
WHEREAS, to maintain quality services in urban parks, a consistent response with staffing levels, infrastructure upgrades and capital improvements is necessary to continue growth and demand; and
WHEREAS, park spaces play an integral role in quality of life by offering free of charge public access to a barrier-free and inclusive environment, which promotes physical activity, reduces stress and improves overall mental health; and
WHEREAS, innovative programming, community outreach and improvements to the urban park systems and conservation areas continues to be an important offering for residents and visitors;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT SUMA advocate for the Provincial Government to re-establish grant funding and partner with Saskatchewan municipalities in order to sustain and grow our beautiful urban parkways and open spaces.
Provincial Response
Dear Randy Goulden:
Thank you for the invitation to participate in the 119th Annual SUMA Convention. The resolutions presented in your correspondence highlight the great work and overall impact of urban parks, including contributions to the quality of life of residents and visitors to these communities.
The generous increases in municipal revenue sharing over the last several years allow communities like Prince Albert, Moose Jaw, Swift Current, the Battlefords area and Weyburn to take greater financial responsibility for their parks. We continue to believe funding through municipal revenue can be an effective mechanism to maintain and enhance urban parks. These communities are in the best position to make decisions about how to allocate municipal funds.
In 2024-25, the Government of Saskatchewan will distribute more than $340 million to municipalities, which benefits municipalities and supports their local priorities across Saskatchewan. The total 2024-25 provincial funding for the Municipal Revenue Sharing Program represents a 14 per cent increase from the previous fiscal year, and a 167 per cent increase from the 2007-08 fiscal year.
We also appreciate the collaboration with existing community partners and encourage the establishment of new partnerships. These partnerships can be a great source of financial contributions and create a shared vision that everyone is proud of.
I wish you and your partners continued success in creating natural places for all generations to enjoy and experience.
Sincerely,
Laura Ross
Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport
