Responses to the LiveableYXE Survey Click on any question to see the responses from the candidates.
Terry Hoknes
Densification is great but majority I have spoken with in older neighborhoods do NOT want 4 plexes and cheap rental properties on their block. Do not want to drastically change the character of neighborhoods that have been established over the last 115 years. Suggestions: Proposals are made & everyone on that block has a say/vote. There could be a limit set per block of only 1 or 2 new developments per block. Concerns over population on their block, lack of parking, hurting property values & sewer/utility issues.
I would suggest new apartments close to the other established apartments near the University to help more students. There are empty vacant spots or unused parking spaces in the downtown between 24th and 28th Streets. The DEED downtown plan wants 2 parks right downtown but I think that land should have new affordable apartments again to help University students & those who work downtown. More apartments downtown would encourage demand for new grocery store. Suggest roughest streets where many lots are vacant or boarded up could be between 19th and 22nd Streets along Avenue C to Avenue W. This might help boost these areas with a sense of starting over.
City buses need improved hours, more routes and buses, safety for bus drivers & passengers, air conditioning, easier access at pickup points, cut out ramps so buses can pull off main streets and prevent halting traffic in that lane. Wheelchair ramps & safer intersections. More bus advertisements for revenue.
Consistent formula and design for Bicycle paths especially downtown. Suggest moving buses & bike lanes 1 block off main roads for safety. (Examples include moving buses/bike from 22nd to 23rd, 20th to 19th St, 8th to 7th Street, Broadway to Lansdowne). More timer crossings at intersections for both drivers & pedestrians to know when its safe to cross. 23rd Bus Mall is congested. We need a 2nd bus mall to improve bus frequency & more connections.
Terry Alm
I do not support the Housing Accelerator Program approved by the current council. This program disregards over a century of meticulous city planning, design, and development for a one time payment of $41 million. Allowing 4 plex developments on any lot in Saskatoon threatens the integrity of our beautiful neighborhoods. Our city was designed with specific capacity limitations, which I believe we must respect.
While I agree that there is a place for higher density, the appropriate time to consider this is when our city planners design new neighborhoods. I will advocate for the construction of new highrises in downtown Saskatoon, where they are more suitable.
Jasmin Parker
I strongly believe that a reliable, accessible, and affordable transit system is the backbone of a more livable and sustainable Saskatoon. The city's 450-meter transit service target is a good starting point, but we need to address areas, including parts of Ward 6, where many residents still live beyond this distance. Simply meeting the target isn’t enough when factors like walkability and safe crossings can make a trip feel much longer.
To move beyond current plans, I will advocate for enhanced transit coverage in underserved areas and work toward better integration of active transportation modes, like walking and cycling. We need to expand Access Transit services, which had a denial rate of 7.7% in 2023—something that is simply unacceptable for an inclusive city. Ensuring accessible, reliable transit helps everyone, from seniors to young families, and supports a thriving community.
Beyond transit, we also need to focus on first and last-mile connectivity. I will push for well-maintained sidewalks, widened and protected paths in high-traffic areas, and more pedestrian signals with leading intervals where needed. I will advocate for planning in school zones and areas with high foot traffic to include raised crosswalks for added safety. Equally important is developing a connected biking network, with safe storage options and direct links to transit.
By making Saskatoon easier to navigate for everyone—whether on foot, bike, or bus—we can make our neighborhoods more attractive for both residents and developers, fostering densification in a thoughtful and community-oriented way.
Jonathan (Jon) Naylor
I understand many younger adults’ frustration with the lack of attainable housing. The city is currently working on affordable rental units for low income families. I believe that home ownership builds strong communities. I will promote this by removing city profits on land sales for starter homes. Primarily row housing which is energy efficient and offers private outdoor space. This is the type of home my sister started in.
I am a year round cyclist (okay not below minus 15C). I support of active transport including a linked, safe bicycle network with secure parking. We still have streets in ward 6 without sidewalks, I will work to get more installed. I look forwards to seeing our around $300 million investment in public transit come to fruition and riding on our new bus network.
Tony Bassett
Beyond the current plans (including the accelerated housing initiative), it will be critical that the City of Saskatoon seek other pathways that will result in greater density and affordable housing options. As City Councillor, I will advocate for the use of mechanisms that have proven successful in other urban centres, including:
– A limitation of parking supply for urban/retail projects ensures that land is utilized for maximum efficiency. This strategy has the bonus of encouraging the public to use alternative forms of transportation.
– Implementing rent control measures to better protect renters from predatory rate increases.
– Inclusionary zoning: Such a strategy would benefit developers by providing incentives and ensuring that a minimum percentage of affordable housing is available for new construction.
– Ensuring the public plays a role in the density planning process to create greater understanding and buy-in.
As City Councillor, ensuring there are safe and accessible pathways for pedestrians and cyclists is a priority. I will advocate for adding more biking zones (30 km/hr streets), the construction of more walking/cycling paths, and implementing strategies that offer greater active transport protections in high vehicular traffic areas. For example, I will advocate for the construction of cycling bridges to provide faster and safer paths, especially for those commuting toward the downtown core. In addition, it will be important for the city to offer cycling stations so that users can be assured their bikes are better protected from theft.
Finally, I will fully support any measures that support public transportation. I will advocate for funding to ensure city transportation becomes even more accessible and reliable for residents. I will be a reliable voice supporting the final establishment of a rapid bus system.
Terry Hoknes
Population growth and a lack of housing has caused major problems including rental prices continually rising. The city no longer wants to build outwards but rather up. We need to strategically discuss each area where it makes sense to add new apartments, condos, 4plexes and have stricter sustainability requirements. Houses in older neighborhoods should be encouraged to upgrade their heating and cooling systems as well as newer windows, doors and insulation. In the long run the home owners will save money as well as helping lower emissions. Lets plant more trees and take care of our green zones. We need to educate everyone more about diseases affecting trees and what we can do to prevent this. We need to recommend green roofs, solar panels and more community gardens.
There is a great program called HELP (Home Energy Loan Program). It was designed to improve energy efficiency, reducing water and installing renewable energy by offering low interest loans. This covers the costs of the improvements. Loans are available between $1,000 and $60,000 in the city.
https://www.saskatoon.ca/environmental-initiatives/energy-water/home-energy-loan-program-help
We need to further study and learn from the city of Copenhagen which is amazingly becoming the first carbon neutral city by 2025.
https://www.spur.org/news/2022-08-31/sustainable-city-learning-copenhagens-plan-zero-carbon
These are some of my ideas which need to be discussed further and I want to hear from you
I AM LISTENING ! www.TerryHoknes.com (306) 270-9387 hoknes@hotmail.com
Terry Alm
Saskatoon is currently facing a significant housing challenge. The limited availability of homes, insufficient new construction, and a rapidly growing population have led to rising prices and affordability issues. This situation has also impacted rental rates, making it harder for people to find affordable housing and increasing the risk of homelessness. If given the opportunity, I will leverage my 36 years of real estate experience and deep community involvement to work with the Saskatoon City Council and our community to enhance housing availability and affordability for everyone.
Jasmin Parker
To ensure Saskatoon’s housing is both environmentally and economically sustainable, we need a proactive and thoughtful approach. First, we must focus on zoning and city bylaws to promote sustainable building practices and energy efficiency. Corridor planning, connecting developments to multi-modal transportation routes and green spaces, will support our long-term sustainability goals.
I will advocate for pursuing provincial and federal grants for home energy renovations. Programs offering tax abatements or low-interest loans can help residents improve energy efficiency in both new and older homes. In Ward 6, we have many cherished older homes that need updates to meet modern energy standards. Improvements such as better insulation and efficient heating and cooling systems can reduce energy use by an estimated 30%, which is crucial as temperatures rise and extreme weather becomes more common.
We should also continue investing in our green spaces and urban canopy. Trees and green areas play a vital role in reducing the heat island effect and improving overall community well-being. As a city councillor, I will advocate for maintaining and expanding our urban vegetation, ensuring our community adapts to the changing climate while enjoying the benefits of cooler, more pleasant living spaces.
By integrating sustainable practices into housing development and urban planning, we can build a city that is resilient and where our neighbours all benefit from improving the spaces in which we live, work, and play.
Jonathan (Jon) Naylor
Climate change and environmental degradation are existential threats which I am working hard to avoid in both my personal life and public actions e.g. helping with the new tree planting on 14th Street.
Building construction codes should be updated/revamped to reflect the need for greater energy efficiency. Also, as we become more dense, to make sure there is adequate fire safety.
The city needs to preserve trees, which is one of my major campaign points. Particularly trees that are normally clear cut during construction. There are examples of developers preserving trees in both single and multi family settings. I will tie tax subsidies to community benefits including preserving trees. As an ex-president of a community association, I know they provide community benefits in a very cost efficient manner. I will work with them to enhance tree plantings in their neighborhoods. Recently trees in city parks have been suffering because of cut backs in watering. I will restore this so that they can continue to provide shade and protection against flooding.
I have benefited from both the Canada green homes and the City’s HELP initiatives. However, the HELP program ran out of money very quickly this year. It needs more support and also fine tuning so that more people can benefit.
Tony Bassett
In the coming years, it will be imperative that the City of Saskatoon continues to enact strategies that produce meaningful greenhouse gas emissions reductions while ensuring that future development is conscientious of existing green spaces and fragile ecosystems. First, the City must greatly raise the profile about the threat of disease threatening the future of natural green features, including the Elm population. This includes expanding the currently limited Dutch Elm Disease testing capacities in Saskatchewan.
There are proven models for success implemented by other cities. As city councilor I will advocate for the adaptation of these proven models.
A major near-term focus will be climate adaptation strategies. This includes the Copenhagen model of integrating green building standards into future affordable housing projects (meaning lower energy costs to lower-income residents) and the requirement of green roofs in new developments. Other cities like Portland have used strategies Saskatoon should embrace, such as bioswales in housing developments offering better flooding protection. I will also advocate for an urban forest strategy, which would focus on increasing the city's tree canopy, the incorporation of green roofs/walls, and the expansion of communal green spaces to combat heat island effects (Melbourne, Australia, has a great model of success in this area).
It will also be critical that the city enact measures that confirm energy-efficient construction standards. This means enforcing energy-efficient guidelines for new housing developments, which may include integrating solar solutions, providing financial incentives for heat pumps, and using water-conservation technologies.
Finally, it will be imperative that the city move away from an ingrained "vehicle first" culture for transportation. This means providing more and safer pedestrian/cycling options and expanding/funding public transportation.
Terry Hoknes
Residential house power, heating and cooling is responsible for a massive 42% of the city's greenhouse gas emissions. We need more general education to the public and students in schools to prepare them with good habits for the next generation in line with our year 2050 goals. We need to make it clear what resources are available and motivate home owners to renovate their homes with energy efficiency upgrades. This is good news as it would decrease the carbon footprint of individual houses but also save money in utility bills. It is estimated that there will be billions in savings in the future for the city. We also need the city and businesses to do their part. Lets plant more trees and take care of our green zones. City should encourage everyone to plant their own gardens to grow food and share with neighbors.
Learn more at these city website links for an overview and tips to help home owners get on the right track.
https://www.saskatoon.ca/environmental-initiatives/climate-change/targets-and-progress
www.Saskatoon.ca/RenoResources
https://www.saskatoon.ca/environmental-initiatives/energy-water/home-energy-loan-program-help
These are some of my ideas which need to be discussed further and I want to hear from you
I AM LISTENING ! www.TerryHoknes.com (306) 270-9387 hoknes@hotmail.com
Terry Alm
I am not conversant with the Low Emissions Community Plan. Until I have had an opportunity to become familiar with it's objectives I am not informed to respond to these questions.
Jasmin Parker
The climate crisis demands urgent and effective action, and Saskatoon has a crucial role to play in mitigating its impacts. The primary challenge with the Low Emissions Community Plan has been its lack of sufficient funding. With an initial investment requirement of $6.1 billion and potential savings of $33.6 billion over 30 years, the economic and environmental benefits are clear, but we need to ensure that we can meet these targets.
To get the plan back on track, I will advocate for a renewed commitment to funding and community engagement. The refreshed Low Emissions Community Plan, which aims for zero net emissions by 2050, will include updated modeling, actions, and will need a clear implementation strategy. Regular measurement and reporting of GHG emissions will be essential to track our progress.
I am committed to supporting this plan through all measures available to city council. By investing in sustainable practices and technologies, we not only address climate change but also enhance our city’s livability and resilience. Ensuring the success of this plan will benefit our community by creating a healthier, more sustainable environment and improving the quality of life for all residents.
Jonathan (Jon) Naylor
As you say, the city administration has made almost zero progress in reducing its emissions over the last 4 years. Residents, in contrast have been quite successful. Like many Saskatoon residents, our family has successfully reduced its emissions. We did this by retrofitting our 1950s house and by switching to less energy intensive modes of transportation. While COVID did not help, residents were able to adapt, but not the city.
Is this because council and administration has prioritized other areas and not kept sustainability front and center? It is important to elect Councillors who prioritize sustainability highly, as I do. The path to sustainability lies though improved data and using this data at decision making time. Council should require an emissions implication statement for all choices bought to it for approval. This way, it would factor into decision making.
Tony Bassett
While the Low Emissions Community Plan was ambitious and worthy of support, at least on paper, several factors impacted its overall implementation.
First and foremost, while ambitious in spirit, the city ultimately lacked implementation. The issue was the city's failure to commit the necessary financial resources to achieve many of the stated 40 objectives within the Plan.
Moving forward, it will be incredibly important for the city to take a focused approach to accelerating its commitment toward its ultimate target of an 80 percent reduction by the middle of the century. This focused approach means prioritizing the implementation of strategies to reduce the most significant emission sources, in particular, the use (or overuse) of individual vehicles, the delivery of the city's water supply, and the management of its wastewater (as impact examples).
Additionally, it will be important for the city to adopt proven models for success that have been developed by other cities (see answer to previous question). This means aggressively implementing measures to ensure all future developments conform to energy-efficient standards, building affordable green housing, providing incentives to residents to green retrofit their households, and making the city more attractive for alternative modes of transportation, encouraging greater walking, cycling, and public transportation use.
Fundamentally, the city must make the financial commitments necessary to ensure most, if not all, of the 40 objectives are met. The original Plan projected nearly $34B in savings from $19B in investment. We must follow through on that plan, and I will be on the committee advocating for the necessary funding.
Terry Hoknes
New FREEWAY & SWALE area problems
The provincial government has planned a ring road to go all the way around the outskirts of the city. This amazing plan is not likely to happen for 15 years. In the North East just out of Saskatoon are a few swale areas. They are going to be hit directly by the planned freeway. There is no way to go around it in the NE part of the city unless we extend it closer to Warman which is not practical. The Northeast Swale is a huge area which is 3x wider than our river. I do not believe we should change or destroy the swale. I am curious if the freeway can be built above ground in the swale areas untouching the land itself. The concern is the cost and practicality of building above ground for such a long distance at 3x the width of our river. The Northeast Swale is a post-glacial channel scar that contains remnant native grasslands and natural wetlands located in the northeastern area of Saskatoon. The Northeast Swale is approximately 26 km long, spanning from Peturrson's Ravine to north of the Clarkboro Ferry and is regarded as a unique environment having ecological, hydrological and hydro-geological characteristics. You can find the map of the area at the Saskatoon Freeway website: https://saskatoonfreeway.org/map/
These are some of my ideas which need to be discussed further and I want to hear from you
I AM LISTENING ! www.TerryHoknes.com (306) 270-9387 hoknes@hotmail.com
Terry Alm
Again, I appologize for not be aware of this issue, as such I'm not prepared to respond to the question.
Jasmin Parker
I am not in favor of the current Saskatoon Freeway proposal as it stands. While the provincial government’s timeline suggests construction could be 15-35 years away, this presents an opportunity for us to approach the project thoughtfully.
It is crucial to advocate for a comprehensive environmental assessment to fully understand the potential impacts on biodiversity and natural habitats, particularly in the Northeast and Small Swales areas. Protecting these valuable natural spaces is essential for maintaining ecological balance and ensuring that our development projects do not come at an undue environmental cost.
While the freeway project is under provincial jurisdiction and does not require city council approval for planning, I will work to ensure that residents are heard and that we advocate for measures that protect our environment and community interests. Planning must balance the needs of infrastructure with the realities of environmental sustainability and long-term viability.
Jonathan (Jon) Naylor
I am not a fan of the freeway through the swale. However, this is a Provincial project. City council has already approved the decision. The city is selling off land that could have been used for alternative projects. I do not believe it can be easily reversed.
Tony Bassett
My position on this is and will be very clear. I will not support the development of a freeway that would impact or affect the invaluable and fragile grassland ecosystems in these areas. It is currently estimated that at least 75%, and perhaps up to 80% of regional grasslands have been lost from agriculture and development. We cannot afford any further losses as these ecosystems play an invaluable role in preserving biodiversity and carbon sequestration.
My future support of any freeway project will only be possible if specified and written requirements indicate that any construction has zero impacts on the surrounding swales.
Terry Hoknes
Whether your family moved here last week or 100 years ago we all want to feel valued and part of the greater community. I would like to see the general public better informed on different minority groups and bring better understanding to the things that make us different and unique. I would like to see a weekly event held in 2 set locations in the city – one on each side of the river. Each event would showcase one specific ethnic or minority group. The general public would be invited to learn more about them having speakers, a presentation, a supper, perhaps music/dance, and a gathering point for people to meet and be introduced to new information relating to the particular group of the week. I would like to see a regular gathering for all of us to be educated about Indigenous culture, history and challenges. Each group could promote and educate about their associations, traditions, beliefs and challenges. This would include all types of groups such as: Disability groups, seniors groups, 2SLGBTQIA+, unemployed, veterans, different ethnic groups such as: Indigenous, Middle Eastern, Latin American, African etc. The People Bridge Advocacy group has done these types of amazing events but I would like to see this become a full time regular event. Smaller events could be held at the brand new downtown Library. Larger scale events could be held in churches, school gymnasiums, leisure centers, halls etc and hopefully these facilities would donate the space. In a sense you could think of it as a weekly Folk fest with one focus pavilion at a time.
These are some of my ideas which need to be discussed further and I want to hear from you
I AM LISTENING ! www.TerryHoknes.com (306) 270-9387 hoknes@hotmail.com
Terry Alm
Affordable housing, access to education and health care, employment opportunities, transit and community for everyone in a culturally respectful way.
Jasmin Parker
Creating a city that is diverse, inclusive, and welcoming requires both thoughtful planning and genuine community engagement. We need to ensure that our leadership reflects the rich diversity of our community, that it advocates for underrepresented communities in ways that make them feel safe and welcome, that raises the voices of minority groups in spaces where they have been historically excluded, and continuously recommits themselves to implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
We should work closely with local organizations to support newcomer communities, older adults, people with disabilities, and Black, Indigenous, and people of color. Our programs, services, and facilities must be culturally inclusive, incorporate accessibility standards with barrier-free designs, and be welcoming to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
I will advocate for policies and initiatives that make people feel safe and valued by celebrating the diversity of our lived experiences. By fostering an environment where everyone feels included and respected, we can build a stronger, more connected community where all residents have the opportunity to thrive.
Jonathan (Jon) Naylor
Saskatoon has many warm and welcoming people. We have a wide variety of diverse cultural attractions including Folkfest. Te city is committed to improve relations with Indigenous and Metis people. We should maintain these and encourage new and culturally events and opportunities.
The city is inviting because of its active arts programs, we have a symphony, theatre, great singing groups. Our University and Polytechnic encourage personal growth, new skills, and a forwards looking view. City administration recognizes and supports the needs of minority groups.
To make our city more emotionally attractive, people have to feel safer. Some have been lucky and not experienced crime first hand. Others have been directly affected, including a friend of mine who suffered an armed home invasion. Many here about these problems and no longer travel to the downtown or along certain trails. Worrying about safety puts a strain on many. Improved public safety is a major campaign for me and I will work hard to make it happen.
Tony Bassett
As a long-time resident of the city and Ward 6, my work in the community has largely focused on supporting a greater culture of inclusivity. As a Board Member for People's Bridge Advocacy, a non-profit organization that works on providing support to intercultural groups in Saskatoon, I am proud to support and celebrate the mosaic of cultures in our city. As the city's population grows – a significant percentage being that of new arrivals- it will be critical that the city provides ongoing support in services and events designed to encourage greater cultural understanding and acceptance. This means supporting and promoting the work of grassroots organizations that are making direct contributions to promoting diversity.
It will be critical that city leaders reinforce a message of reconciliation with our indigenous community. Much progress has been made recently, but we still have many miles to travel. I will advocate for continued acknowledgement of the history and experience of our Indigenous brothers and sisters, and how the future of our city depends on ensuring the social and cultural obstacles are removed so that they are offered an equal opportunity for a prosperous life.
Finally, I will advocate the city continues to provide residents with the necessary meeting and leisure spaces for its growing population. The construction of a new main library will play a key role, as well as either constructing or refurbishing existing buildings into community halls/meeting spaces and ensuring that there is an ample supply of leisure locations – public parks with soccer/baseball fields, swimming pools, ice/skating arenas, etc. These meeting and activity spaces enhance residents' quality of life and offer meeting places where community members can connect.
Moving forward, it will be important that city leadership advocates for inclusion to ensure that all residents feel welcome and accepted and view Saskatoon as a good place to live, work and raise a family.
Terry Hoknes
Downtown Arena & district plan has been approved. There should have been a referendum on this topic and other major issues. At least discussions on city website that allows regular polls for comments from public. The community should have a say in what they have to pay for.
Majority is against building it. Does city council have confirmed funds from the provincial and federal government to cover a 1/3 of the cost each? Without their assistance we cannot afford this venue. Even paying just 1/3 of the cost ($400 million) will be tough & it will land up costing even more in the end. We only need a new building to have higher ceilings for major concerts. Plan is to make the new Arena only 10% bigger. No plan to even attract bigger audiences but rather just attract a few more concerts. Do any of the sports games at Sasktel Centre sell out?
We have social & safety issues to deal with first. It seems selfish to put the focus of budget into materialistic wants rather than social needs. Downtown plan includes 2 new parks next to Homeless Shelter at 23rd Street. These parks will not be comfortable for public & families to use. We need to do things in an order that make sense. Let's remove the homeless from downtown, clean up the crime then talk about beautification of our downtown. I think until Sasktel Centre is unsafe we are spending foolishly. Focus the budget on essential services that are needed by 100% of community including road repairs, snow removal, affordable housing, health care facility, transit safety and reliability and more police patrolling & more street lighting in higher crime areas. I collected 400 comments on pro's and con's of the Arena downtown and all on my website.
We want a healthy business section and a rejuvenated night life downtown. We cannot possibly have that til the homeless & crime issues are dealt with. Let's spend next 4 years fixing & improving essential services. 4 years from now we can talk Arena.
I AM LISTENING
Terry Alm
As I understand the current proposal this 1.2 billion dollar project needs one third of the funding to come from the federal government, one third from the provincial government and one third from the City of Saskatoon. A third, a third and a third works out to 400 million dollars each. In my books that's a lot of money. and my belief at present is that the existing Liberal government in Ottawa is very unlikely to send 400 million dollars to Saskatoon for anything let alone this project.
Secondly I do not see the Provincial government being flush with cash to support a new arena and convention facility to the tune of 400 million dollars in Saskatoon. In my opinion that money could be better spent on improving our health care and education systems across the province. Funding this project could lead to a significant backlash, as it may be seen as being out of touch with the needs of our province.
Finally the City of Saskatoon is expected to raise 400 million to cover it's share of the project. Let's be real, with a population of about 350,000 people our municipal property taxes are already high enough without the burden of funding this project. The existing council has promised no tax increase due to this project. But let me remind you that there is only one taxpayer, what other programs will receive less financial support because we've allocated such a large sum to this one project?
If the city council truly believed that this project was being demanded by the citizens of our great city, why didn't they hold a referendum vote during this falls election? Claiming there wasn't enough time is unconvincing, given how long consultants have been working on the project.
My last point is this: what do they plan to do when the 1.2 billion dollars runs out before the project is finished. Please also explain what happens if the revenue generated is not sufficient to cover operating costs?
Jasmin Parker
The Downtown Event & Entertainment District (DEED) project offers an opportunity to modernize Saskatoon and invigorate downtown, but it must be approached with careful consideration. I believe in a detailed and transparent planning process that involves extensive community input. This ensures that the project aligns with the needs and aspirations of our residents.
Economic analyses and assessments have shown both risks and opportunities. Renovating the existing facility presents challenges, while a new downtown event center and renovation of TCU Place could offer significant economic benefits. However, any investment in the DEED should be part of a larger strategy aimed at revitalizing downtown comprehensively.
Municipal spending should be balanced. We need to prioritize essential services and ensure equitable investment across the city that address our infrastructure deficits. In Ward 6 there is a pressing need to enhance our existing parks and green spaces, as well as plan for the development of new green spaces. As the president of my local community association I’ve seen first-hand how challenging it can be to get these invesment in our neighbourhoods. We need to think, and plan, long term in order for our older neighbourhoods to continue to be desirable palces to live.
Additionally, investing in safer streets, completing our sidewalk network, improving crosswalks, and establishing a well-planned bikeway network are crucial. These investments support the overall safety, health, and economy of our community.
Most importantly we need to evaluate these investments in consultation with the community and through a small scale lens to ensure we are addressing the needs of the local areas being impacted. By thoughtfully managing both large-scale projects like the DEED and essential local improvements, we can create a vibrant, dynamic downtown while ensuring that all residents enjoy a high quality of life.
Jonathan (Jon) Naylor
DEED is a contentious issue on which the city is split. According to the initial consultants, an arena will only survive if it is loved. Many residents do not currently love the idea of a new arena. DEED is a very large $1 billion plus undertaking at a time when we have pressing social issues including housing and safety.
My preference is to put construction of the big buildings on hold. I will proceed with the relatively cheap public space enhancements (parklets, 23 rd Street). I will also advocate for re-opening of the conservatory with its plants and trees that was an attraction for many residents, particularly during the winter months. In 4 years time (next election) we should re-evaluate this plan.
Downtown revitalization is very important. I will begin with making it safe for people to walk around. Safe access and reduced crime and vandalism will be a big help for business. We also need a grocery store, this will become ever more important as the downtown population grows. The city could sell some of its land specifically for this purpose.
Tony Bassett
In principle, I support the development of the Event District as a place where people can gather, showcase the arts and provide residents with a location for entertainment. At this time, the city and developers have indicated that the cost of the construction and refurbishment activities will largely be converted by contributions by the provincial and federal governments, as well as private interests. If this is the final model for development, I will be in support.
However, if, ultimately, the expectation is that residents shoulder the burden of the cost of this project, I will have significant reservations. In part because residents are increasingly wary of additional property tax increases and in part because there are other significant challenges facing the city, including the rising number of unhoused residents, the need to ensure the city's infrastructure is maintained, and ensuring the city continues to progress in other key initiatives, including the implementation of the Low Emissions Community Plan (among others).
In short, if the proposed Event District impacts or compromises the residential tax rates, social issues, infrastructure or key long-term projects, I will be greatly reluctant to support the project at its current projected expenditure of $1.2B.
Terry Hoknes
800 people need help fast to improve their lives. Housing First approach for those who could not afford rent. City owned properties unused or vacant/boarded up houses turned into new homes. New communities established with either tiny houses, town houses or modular shelters. The tiny village plan in L.A. could be built quickly. Search on youtube. Prefabricated houses could be purchased online or made locally. Basic design starting at $9,500.00 US funds per house. On amazon.ca search for Prefabricated or Tiny Houses. Houses could be ready for Christmas if city could approve and prepare and figure out extra costs required to add furnaces, winterizing, zoning etc.
A complete Health Care facility needed for those with addictions or mental issues that includes shelter bed food showers laundry community space treatment programs job/finance educational/training courses support groups social workers visitor area and outdoor park area. Portland Health Centre has best design 52K sq feet & 208 beds. Check on youtube. Where does city own land on outskirts? Perhaps purchasing an acreage south of the city! Remove those who are "living" on streets and alleys and bring them to the Facility. Transportation for those who have downtown appointments. No more delaying or doing things second rate on a low budget. All citizens deserve to have safe neighborhoods. Shelters should never be in residential areas or downtown. Families, children & businesses need to be safe. Street laws should be stricter with possible downtown curfew and that police should assist those on the street to a homeless shelter OR a warming shelter this winter. Pop up locations installed downtown and Riversdale areas. Giant heated tents at night. More Churches/Halls arranged for inside heat. All levels of government team up and step up! I have much more to say at my website!
Terry Alm
Saskatoon, similar to many Canadian cities, is seeking solutions to address its significant homeless population. Many of these individuals face challenges related to addiction or mental health, while others have become homeless due to a variety of circumstances.
As a caring community, we must find ways to support those striving for a better life. Numerous individuals and organizations have been offering assistance and have achieved some success. However, enhanced communication, collaboration, and cooperation could yield even greater results. I envision these groups coming together to share success stories, brainstorm new ideas, and collaboratively reduce the number of at-risk individuals. While there is no single solution, working together can lead to meaningful progress. This collaborative approach has driven success in my past experiences, and I believe we can achieve similar outcomes with the homeless challenge.
Jasmin Parker
Addressing homelessness in Saskatoon requires a compassionate and multi-faceted approach. It’s crucial to tackle both immediate needs and the root causes of homelessness through collaboration with all levels of government, local emergency services, non-profits, and community organizations. We need to work to strengthen these partnerships and bring these voices to the table to ensure that efforts are coordinated and resources are being used efficiently.
Expanding the availability of affordable housing is a key step. I support initiatives to build and maintain low-income housing, including leveraging tools like the Housing Accelerator Fund to speed up development projects that address the needs of our most vulnerable residents.
In addition, providing supportive services is essential. Projects that offer mental health care, addiction treatment, and job training can make a significant difference. Prevention strategies, such as rent subsidies and eviction prevention programs, are also important to help people stay in their homes. The city needs to engage in the hard work of collaborating with our provincial and federal governments to put the required support and funding in place.
We need to advocate for enhanced emergency shelter options at the provincial level to ensure safe accommodations for those in immediate need. While the province has engaged the city in selecting sites for 60 new emergency shelter spaces, it’s important to work closely with the Government of Saskatchewan and organizations like The Mustard Seed to ensure effective operations and support.
Recognizing that homelessness can take various forms and affect people for different reasons, we must seek nuanced, tailored solutions. Collaborating with experts and community leaders will help us develop effective strategies to address this complex issue and provide the support individuals need to achieve stability and a better quality of life.
Jonathan (Jon) Naylor
This is a complex issue that requires the cooperation of all levels of Government to solve. It has two root causes.
The first is the imbalance between population growth and housing supply. I am happy to see that the Federal government is taking steps to bring population growth into line with housing supply. I will press the Feds to ensure that we have balance and to give us the tools to meet housing needs, including financial aid. Provincially, we need well funded training programs to supply needed construction workers (and other required services).
The city has just spent around $13 million to subsidize affordable housing. This mainly means rental units in apartment blocks, often built in new developments and owned by corporate landlords. I want to do more for the little guy. Attainable housing, by this I mean smaller, efficient, starter homes like row houses. Let’s stop the city from profiteering off land sales for this type of home. They are in high demand. Let’s supply the land cheaply to incentivize their construction.
The above will help prevent future homelessness. However, for those who are currently homeless, the above is unlikely to be enough. We need creative solutions, like small cubicle homes around a central wash and electrical facility as has been tried successfully in BC. I will listen to any other suggestion.
The second cause of homelessness is addiction. Again, a complex problem requiring a multipronged approach and a lot of cooperation. My part of this will be to promote prevention of addiction in the first place. In conjunction with SHA and the Province, we need a graphic, hard hitting prevention program. This would emphasize that opioids are now the number one killer of adult males under 65. There are many other adverse health outcomes including brain damage from lack of oxygen during over dosage. We also need to emphasize that drugs wreck the social fabric and employability, leading to a downward spiral.
Tony Bassett
The issue of the unhoused in Saskatoon is reaching a crisis level. While the challenge of homelessness is by no means unique to Saskatoon, it is of greater urgency not only because of the rapidly escalating number of unhoused people, but also the direct threat posed to their safety given the extreme cold of our winter climate.
A major influencing factor in the rise of the unhoused population has undoubtedly been policy decisions taken by other levels of government, in particular the Government of Saskatchewan, which has implemented significant cuts to its social services, in particular areas like mental health supports and addictions, both of which are causal factors in homelessness.
Addressing homelessness will be a top priority for me as a city councillor. If elected, I will use my platform to publically call on all levels of government, including the provincial and federal levels, to come to the table and collaborate with the city in good faith in providing the needed support to meaningfully reduce the unhoused population. It will also be critical for city grassroots organizations who are working directly with the unhoused, to play a major role in developing effective strategies that will get people off the street.
Finally, it will also be critical that the city as a whole plays a role in alleviating the challenge. This means we are all willing to ensure that shelters and safe spaces are built or developed in locations beyond the downtown core. It is unconscionable that while we live in a land of plenty, people are dying because they cannot find a place to live. We must do better by coming together.