Resolutions

Whereas the Government of Saskatchewan has introduced new transparency and communication requirements through modernization and red tape reduction initiatives, including obligations to maintain municipal websites and publish agendas, minutes, and financial information; and 

Whereas small urban municipalities often operate with limited staffing and financial capacity, making it difficult to comply with these additional administrative responsibilities without reducing essential services or increasing costs to ratepayers; and 

Whereas mandatory online posting of municipal documents creates privacy, security, and communication risks, including the potential for inadvertent disclosure of sensitive information protected under The Local Authority Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (LA FOIP), and may expose municipalities to fraud attempts or targeted financial exploitation once financial information becomes publicly accessible; and 

Whereas small municipalities frequently lack the technical tools, training, and legal expertise required to manage information security, perform proper document redaction, and respond to increased public expectations for explanations of council decisions; 

Therefore be it resolved that SUMA advocate the Government of Saskatchewan to: 

• Provide dedicated funding to small urban municipalities for website development, maintenance, and required online postings; 

• Provide communication tools, templates, and training to help municipalities explain council decisions to the public; 

• Ensure future transparency and reporting requirements include accompanying financial, technical, and training supports; and 

• Provide resources to help municipalities manage privacy, redaction, information security, and financial theft risks associated with publishing municipal information online.