Resolutions

Whereas Saskatchewan municipalities are experiencing increasing climate-related challenges, including flooding, drought, wildfires, extreme weather events, and infrastructure degradation, which threaten public safety, local economies, and municipal budgets; and

Whereas Saskatchewan’s municipalities require climate adaptation strategies, improved risk assessment tools, and funding to implement sustainable solutions that enhance community resilience and protect municipal infrastructure; and

Whereas many municipalities lack the technical expertise, financial resources, and regional data needed to develop effective climate adaptation policies and infrastructure projects; and

Whereas climate adaptation programs in other provinces, including Alberta’s Municipal Climate Change Action Centre, have successfully supported municipalities in securing funding and technical support for climate resilience projects.

Therefore be it resolved that SUMA advocate the Ministry of Environment to:

• Provide financial support to SUMA to establish the Municipal Eco-Action Centre as a key resource for municipalities to access training, funding assistance and expert guidance on climate adaptation.
• Establish the Municipal Climate Adaptation and Resilience Fund to support local governments in Saskatchewan in assessing climate risks, implementing adaptation measures, and upgrading infrastructure to withstand climate impacts.
• Provide municipalities with enhanced access to climate risk data, impact assessments, and technical support to improve decision-making, land-use planning, and disaster preparedness.
• Expand partnerships between the province, municipalities, and academic institutions to facilitate research, innovation, and capacity-building programs focused on climate adaptation for urban communities.

Acts affected: None