Responses to the LiveableYXE Survey Click on any question to see the responses from the candidates.
Jamie Kirkpatrick
I look forward to the opportunity to review more thoroughly the City's current densification and related transportation plans and decisions. I believe as the city continues to grow we need to plan for more dense housing options – in some cases infill housing – that respect the character of our established neighbourhoods. Building up is less expensive than continuing to build out.
I support the plan to add a "subway" like Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) network provided community and business consultations are included in all phases of construction and route planning. We need to include present and future transit users in the planning process. There must also be a plan to collaboratively work with bus operators in the ATU, Community Resource Officers from Saskatoon Police, Bus Riders organizations, and community organizations to make public transit safe for all.
One specific action I plan to address is the insufficient and incomplete sidewalk network in Ward 7. A crucial part of active transportation is having complete and safe networks for walking, biking, pushing a stroller, or using mobility devices. We need connected routes that are cleared in the winter months to ensure the safety and mobility for all.
Holly Kelleher
Densification and maintaining a sustainable geographic footprint is a top priority for Saskatoon. As the city expands outward, the cost of maintaining essential infrastructure rises, placing a greater burden on resources. To manage this, I advocate for increased densification along the city's main corridors, as outlined in the Corridor Transformation Plan. These corridors, supported by the new LINK system, will play a vital role in boosting density and offering tiered housing options for a range of income levels.
Transit villages present an exciting opportunity to create vibrant spaces where people can connect, combining mixed-use retail and residential developments while fostering local employment. A reliable, efficient, and safe public transportation system is crucial for any growing city. By adding new routes, establishing transit villages, and improving operations, we can encourage more ridership, making public transit a convenient and attractive option for work, education, and leisure.
I support streamlining approval processes for infill developments in existing neighborhoods, ensuring they meet necessary standards while accelerating project timelines. Safe, well-connected Active Transportation networks are another essential component of Saskatoon’s transportation system. Walking and biking paths should be secure, well-maintained, and conveniently linked to transit routes across the city. Creating separation between vehicle-heavy streets and bike/walk pathways on secondary streets has been a positive step forward, and I would like to see further expansion, particularly near schools, with safety measures like bulbed-out crossings and dedicated bike lanes where needed.
The Meewasin Trail network has grown steadily each year, and I support its continued expansion with stronger connections to arterial bike trail networks, making it easier for residents to travel throughout the city.
Justin Wiens
To ensure that Saskatoon, particularly Ward 7, becomes a more accessible and sustainable city while relying solely on funding generated from lower taxes, we must be smart with our spending. Every dollar counts, and efficient use of resources can drive progress in densification, public transit, and active transportation without increasing the financial burden on residents.
Densification:
Densification doesn’t have to come with huge costs. By streamlining zoning regulations and reducing red tape, we can encourage private developers to invest in multi-family housing and mixed-use developments without heavy public subsidies. Offering density bonuses—where developers are granted more building height or units in exchange for providing affordable housing or green space—can incentivize private investment at no additional cost to taxpayers. We can also explore converting underutilized city-owned lands into vibrant residential and commercial hubs, bringing growth without raising taxes.
Public Transit:
Improving public transit with a focus on lower taxes requires rethinking how we deliver services efficiently. We can explore cost-saving measures like reallocating existing bus routes to focus on high-density areas or utilizing smaller, more efficient buses during off-peak hours. Encouraging partnerships with local businesses for transit sponsorships or advertising can create revenue streams, helping fund better services without increasing taxes. Another key strategy would be improving the existing infrastructure to reduce maintenance costs long-term, ensuring that resources are spent wisely.
Active Transport:
Promoting walking and biking can be achieved through low-cost, high-impact measures. Repurposing existing roads to include protected bike lanes, expanding sidewalks, and creating safer crossings can be done without massive financial outlays. We can also incentivize businesses to sponsor bike-sharing programs or collaborate with community groups to maintain and
Edward Agbai
I will bring my experiences as an engineering professional in a Fortune 500 company to bear in my City Councillor role. I will advocate for improved infrastructure and plans that prioritize reliable and accessible public transit and safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. I will also advocate for improved snow removal mechanisms in older neighborhoods and communities, sidewalks, back alleys, and underground drainages.
Densification Strategies:
I will encourage developers to create mixed-use buildings that combine residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, as experienced in the Stonebridge community. This approach will not only reduce the need for long commutes and promote walkability but also foster a sense of community, reduce urban sprawl, and enhance the overall livability of Ward 7 and the larger Saskatoon City, giving residents a brighter future to look forward to.
I will work with the city to ensure that densification efforts include affordable housing options, making it possible for residents to live close to where they work, shop, and access services.
Enhancing Public Transit:
I will work collaboratively with Saskatoon Transit to enhance bus routes, using bus 83 in Stonebridge areas as an example to increase service frequency. I will also advocate for accessible transit options that cater to people with disabilities and the elderly.
I will work with city officials to promote transit-oriented development that aligns with the city's long-term strategic plan by ensuring that new housing and commercial developments are planned around existing and future transit lines. This will make public transit a more convenient option for residents because if the transit system is efficient, residents might not need to drive their cars to work, and it will reduce parking congestion, especially in the Downtown Area during working hours.
Jamie Kirkpatrick
This is a huge job that goes beyond the ability of a single City Councillor. I believe that housing is a human right and that in a vast and wealthy country like Canada we should able to ensure access to safe housing for all of those who live here.
I support those calling for a national taskforce to address the housing crisis being experienced in Canadian cities.
I believe we must apply a smart growth lens the to construction of new homes in Saskatoon. We should be building close to existing city infrastructure. We should be ensuring that new homes that are built are not locked into expensive fossil fuel heating and we should require the installation of modern heat pumps with high-efficiency back up furnaces to assist if needed in the coldest of cold Saskatchewan winters.
Building with the environment and economy in mind will ensure housing that will be affordable, accessible, and long-lasting.
Holly Kelleher
Saskatoon’s rapid rise in housing prices, coupled with inflation, has significantly impacted the cost of living. To address this, it is essential that we offer a variety of housing options tailored to different income levels and lifestyles, ensuring that everyone in our community has a place to call home. I am committed to advancing key initiatives in particular, the Corridor Transformation Plan, which will not only increase density but also create vibrant, mixed-use developments that support affordable, tiered housing. Streamlining infill development and expanding zoning for mixed residential and commercial builds will also help us meet growing demand more efficiently.
For individual homes, I would advocate for the expansion of programs like the Energy Assistance Program and the Home Energy Loan Program. By providing residents with access to energy advisors and financing to improve the energy efficiency of their homes, we can play a positive role in helping residents reduce costs while lowering environmental impact.
Looking ahead, we need to actively leverage opportunities like the Housing Accelerator Fund to drive innovation in sustainable home building. Incentivizing the use of green technologies in new developments and renovations is a strategy that needs to be pursued. Furthermore, integrating minimum required green spaces with connected pathways into planning and maintaining and expanding the urban forest will help the city overall mitigate the affects of heat extremes and promote a healthier, more connected city.
Justin Wiens
As a business owner, I recognize that Saskatoon's housing future must be both environmentally sustainable and economically viable, especially as we face rising temperatures and more frequent climatic extremes. My approach would prioritize smart, practical solutions driven by proven examples that balance innovation with affordability.
First, we need to ensure new housing is built with energy efficiency as a priority. This includes utilizing materials that are not only durable but also have a lower environmental footprint, like advanced insulation, energy-efficient windows, and sustainable construction materials. I’ve seen firsthand in my own business that upfront investment in quality materials pays off long-term, both economically and environmentally.
One area where Saskatoon can make significant strides is the widespread adoption of heat pumps. These systems provide efficient heating and cooling, reducing both energy costs and reliance on traditional, less environmentally friendly heating methods. By partnering with local suppliers and contractors, we can incentivize homeowners to retrofit older homes with this technology, which I’ve found to be a game-changer in my operations by reducing energy consumption and long-term costs.
The Housing Accelerator Fund can be leveraged to support projects that incorporate energy-efficient designs, renewable energy sources like solar panels, and strategic placement near public transit. As a business owner, I’ve always prioritized efficiency in my operations—whether in logistics or staffing—and the same logic applies to housing. Homes built close to public transit reduce the carbon footprint of commuting, which aligns with the broader need for sustainable urban development.
At the same time, we must create spaces that promote community resilience. This means integrating green spaces, which can help mitigate the urban heat island effect, into housing developments. In my coaching experience, I’ve seen how community spac
Edward Agbai
As your candidate, I will take the lead in promoting transit-oriented development. By strategically planning new housing and commercial developments around existing and future transit lines, we can make public transit a more convenient option for residents.
Push for urban design incorporating sustainability principles, such as green roofs and energy-efficient buildings.
Collaboration with Stakeholders
As an Engineering Professional, I value subject matter experience. I will be in active collaboration with City Councillors, tapping from the valued expertise and resources of developers, builders, and financial institutions to integrate sustainability into housing development. By working together, we can create a more sustainable future, which could include green financing options that provide lower interest rates for eco-friendly projects.
As your advocate, I will push for more robust building codes and regulations. These will mandate energy efficiency and climate resilience in new and existing housing, aligning with broader provincial and federal climate goals. This collective effort is necessary to combat climate change and ensure a sustainable future.
Climate-Sensitive Zoning: The City of Saskatoon will be undertaking robust strategic plans for the next five years; I will actively participate to lend my voice to efforts to implement laws that encourage the development of resilient and energy-efficient housing. A housing development that considers future climate projections to avoid placing homes in vulnerable locations when planning new residential areas.
As your candidate, I am committed to sustainable urban growth. I will advocate for compact urban growth as a strategy to conserve energy, reduce sprawl, preserve natural habitats, and efficiently use our natural resources. This approach reduces the infrastructure costs associated with providing services to dispersed communities, making it a win-win solution.
Jamie Kirkpatrick
"Nearly half of all Canada’s emissions come from and are the responsibility of two provinces: Alberta and Saskatchewan. … These provinces are not only lagging in development of appropriate policies to reduce emissions in their own jurisdictions, they are also actively opposing some proposed federal policies, especially those that impact the oil and gas sector — still Canada’s biggest single source of emissions."
From the Pembina Institute for Appropriate Development's "All Together Now" report (https://www.pembina.org/pub/all-together-now)
Locally, Saskatoon has charged ahead with worthwhile goals and emissions reductions targets however when the urgency of the climate crisis is down played by our Provincial government at every turn, it isn't hard to understand why more progress is not being made.
The City of Saskatoon needs to take bolder steps to support and encourage home owners to improve their home's environmental performance and lower their heating and power bills by allowing for more distributed solar and wind power options in and around Saskatoon. This means further expanding and improving upon the Home Energy Loan Program. Doing so will likely require greater investments from the federal government and the development of a lasting bilateral relationship between the City and the federal government.
A separate program / strategy to target improvements in multi-unit dwellings environmental performance would be a good addition to the low emissions community plan.
In addition, looking to other cities to adopt programs geared toward renters and landlords, where the benefits of improved environmental performance are be shared in ways to avoid hikes in rent or renovictions represent another way to get Saskatoon on track toward our longer term net zero goals.
Holly Kelleher
The Low Emissions Community Plan is bold and necessary. It is in everyone's best interest to take action to ensure our air and water are clean, and Saskatoon is positioned to mitigate impacts of more extreme weather systems. The Low Emissions Plan's fourty recommendations present some quick short term and longer-term initiatives to meet reduction targets, however, the city has missed most targets to date. This could be due to several factors including lack of early action resulting in a period of emission growth without mitigation (2014 to 2023), the complexity of reducing city-wide emissions compared to city operations, an overall increase in populations growth, limited improvements in public transportation and funding constraints.
I would like to see a review of the Low Emissions Community Plan with adjusted timelines and an order of priority listing given the delays and missed targets. In the meantime, I believe there are several strategies to pursue to get back on track including:
-Enhancing building efficiency and retrofitting existing municipal, commercial and residential buildings,
-Hastening LINK and ensuring public transportation is a viable, safe and efficient option for residents,
-Expanding waste diversion initiatives,
-Scaling up climate adaptation efforts and investments in infrastructure to ensure the city can better mitigate increased flooding, extreme storms, higher temperatures.
In addition, the city needs to work in close collaboration with provincial and federal governments as well as our municipal, First Nation and Metis neighbours to leverage funds, develop regional projects and programs, and garner public support for them.
Justin Wiens
As a business owner who understands the importance of setting realistic goals and achieving them through practical, scalable actions, I am committed to seeing the Low Emissions Community Plan (LEC Plan) succeed. However, I also believe that Saskatoon’s size and position in the global context must be taken into account. It’s important to focus on what is within our control, rather than setting unattainable goals that may be heavily influenced by factors outside our jurisdiction, like the actions of larger countries or industries.
The reason the LEC Plan has missed many of its emissions targets stems largely from this misalignment between ambition and practicality. While it's crucial to aim high, we must also tailor our strategies to the reality of our city's size, economic base, and resources. Saskatoon’s relatively small population and reliance on industries like agriculture and mining, which are harder to decarbonize, make it more difficult to match the emissions reductions of larger urban centers with different economies.
As an educated business owner, I’ve learned that growth and improvement must be built on realistic, actionable steps. In my own business, we’ve seen success not by chasing grand visions, but by optimizing what we can control—whether that’s improving efficiency in our operations, reducing waste, or ensuring that our supply chains are as sustainable as possible. The same approach applies to emissions reduction. Saskatoon should focus on actions where we can make a measurable impact: improving the energy efficiency of our buildings, expanding renewable energy use where feasible, and creating a transportation system that works for our city’s unique needs.
One area where we can regain momentum is by better engaging local businesses and homeowners. In my experience, the more stakeholders feel involved, the more likely they are to adopt the changes needed for success. Offering tax incentives or subsidies for energy-efficient retrofits, for exam
Edward Agbai
My commitment to the LEC Plan is rooted in my belief that sustainability & economic growth can go hand in hand.
To indicate my commitment, if elected. I will
Prioritize collaboration with community members, local businesses, & environmental experts to ensure everyone has a voice in implementing the Plan. Engaging with stakeholders will help identify practical, community-supported solutions.
Advocate for clear, consistent communication about the progress of the Plan, including the challenges we face and the successes we achieve. Transparency is critical to maintaining public trust and encouraging community participation.
Advocate for the effective allocation of resources—financial, technical, and human—to ensure the plan's initiatives are fully supported & implemented.
Reasons for Missing Emissions Targets
The coronavirus pandemic that ravaged the world in 2020-2021 effectively slowed down plans globally including the LEC plan as these years were crucial in attaining the 40% reduction mark by 2023 below the 2014 levels. Besides this global reason, other reasons might include
Inability to translate the plan's goals into actionable steps possibly due to a lack of clarity, coordination, or expertise.
Lack of upfront investment because emissions reductions often require significant upfront investments in infrastructure, technology, and public awareness campaigns.
Steps to Get the Plan on Track
I would work on tightening regulations around emissions & provide incentives for businesses & residents to adopt low-emission practices. This could include grants for energy-efficient housing upgrades as adopted in the city of New York, USA.
Establish a more robust system for tracking progress, including regular updates & public reports on emissions reductions.
Launch public education campaigns about how individuals & businesses can contribute. Explore & implement cutting-edge technologies & innovations that can help reduce emissions.
Jamie Kirkpatrick
I am not in favour of the proposed Saskatoon Freeway.
However, if somehow, a valid, tested, complete, and independent study of the future transportation needs of Saskatoon pointed to the need for a new multilane freeway, I would advocate for its development a safe distance away from impacting the Northeast and Small Swales.
Building new freeways are very expensive and lock in private automobile transportation choices when alternatives exist and should be explored first.
Holly Kelleher
While I understand the need for efficient transportation routes around the City, I believe this can be accomplished while maintaining the integrity of the swales. The Northeast Swale is an ecologically sensitive area, and can provide recreational, education and economic benefits to the city in addition to being a natural air and water filter.
I would seek the advice and guidance of the Northeast Swale Working group and bring these to Council.
I believe it is critically important to protect and preserve ecologically sensitive areas in and around the city. These areas provide much needed recreational, educational and potentially economic benefits to all residents and contribute to the livability of any city.
Justin Wiens
As a business owner committed to practical, data-driven solutions, I am in favor of the proposed Saskatoon Freeway project, but only if it is executed with a clear focus on minimizing environmental impact through diligent planning and efficient use of space. While it is crucial to protect areas of biodiversity like the Northeast and Small Swales, we must also recognize the needs of a growing city. The expansion of infrastructure like the freeway is essential for supporting economic growth, reducing congestion, and facilitating efficient transportation for residents, businesses, and the supply chain.
That said, this project cannot be ideology-driven or overlook the environmental concerns that have been raised. We need to base our decisions on best practices in urban development and environmental stewardship. For instance, as a business owner, I’ve always emphasized maximizing resources without waste or unnecessary impact. The same principle applies here—careful planning must ensure that the freeway uses land efficiently, minimizes pollution, and incorporates solutions like wildlife crossings, noise barriers, and green spaces that protect the Swales' biodiversity.
In favor of the project, I see the freeway as a vital tool to relieve pressure on existing roads, reducing traffic congestion within the city, which in turn lowers emissions. From a business perspective, we know that inefficiencies lead to higher costs. In transportation, that inefficiency comes from long commutes, congested highways, and the environmental damage caused by cars idling in traffic. By building a new route that allows traffic to flow more freely, we reduce those inefficiencies, benefiting both the environment and the economy.
However, we must not lose sight of the need for balance. As a business leader, I've learned that successful outcomes come from listening to all stakeholders and finding common ground. The freeway project should be subject to thorough environmental assessments and
Edward Agbai
Below are my some of the reasons why I am against the proposed Saskatoon Freeway project.
The proposed freeway could significantly disrupt Northeast and Small Swales habitats that contains robust biodiversity, and construction could lead to species loss and ecosystem degradation.
The swales serve as a natural floodplain. Disturbing these areas could have long-term consequences for the environment and the community.
The swales are used for educational and recreational purposes, providing a connection to nature that is increasingly rare in our urbanized world. A freeway through these areas could reduce their accessibility and diminish their value to the community, robbing us of a precious resource.
While the proposed Saskatoon Freeway may offer economic and traffic management benefits, the significant environmental concerns surrounding the Northeast and Small Swales must be addressed. Protecting these areas' biodiversity and ecosystem services should be a priority.
Jamie Kirkpatrick
I believe in a Saskatoon that is inclusive, liveable, and sustainable. To me this starts with a city that offers opportunities and dignity to every single resident. Diversity is a strength of Saskatoon. For a truly welcoming and liveable city, we need accessible services that consider a full range of community needs. As our communities change, so must our city. We need more options for homes and facilities build and maintained by Saskatchewan's workers for Saskatoon's people.
For Saskatoon to reach its potential, to attract and keep people here, we need to be a diverse and inviting place to live and work.
Holly Kelleher
I believe Saskatoon’s strengths as a diverse and inclusive city lies in its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and strong economic foundation. The First Nations and Metis culture and language groups enrich the city and are becoming more visible from art installations, syllabics on buildings to cultural celebrations and gathering hosted annually throughout the year. Our summer festivals celebrating the rich makeup of immigrant cultures, local musicians and performance art complemented by our winter city events truly make Saskatoon an inviting locale to live, work and play.
Saskatoon's breathtaking river valley is a natural gem that not only enhances our city's beauty but also creates spaces for connection, reflection, and recreation. The Meewasin trail is now over one hundred kilometers stretching from Wanuskewin to Beaver Creek offering winding paths, scenic views, opportunities for outdoor activities and many places to bring people together while providing a peaceful escape from the hectic pace of daily life.
Saskatoon’s strong industry base, particularly in sectors like agriculture, mining, technology and education, underpin the city’s growth and prosperity. This foundation provides opportunities for entry level positions, career growth, innovation, and economic stability, making it an inviting place for individuals and families to build their lives. Saskatoon’s combination of cultural wealth, natural beauty, and economic opportunity create ideal conditions for the city to be a top choice to live and work.
Justin Wiens
A healthy and welcoming city requires more than just well-designed physical spaces—it needs to be culturally and emotionally inclusive. However, for Saskatoon to truly become a leader in diversity and inclusion, we must first address the needs of the people who already live here. Current immigration practices, while important, often overlook the strain they place on local resources, such as housing, healthcare, and employment. This can lead to an imbalance that negatively affects both newcomers and long-term residents.
As a business owner who values sustainable, responsible growth, I believe it’s crucial to find a balance between welcoming newcomers and supporting the community already in place. Immigration should not come at the expense of the basic needs of our current population. While we bring more people into Saskatoon, we are not adequately matching that growth with increased access to affordable housing, healthcare, or job training. This disconnect can create competition for resources, leaving many residents—especially those already struggling—feeling overlooked and unsupported.
In my business experience, I’ve learned that growth must be managed carefully. You can’t expand a company without first ensuring your existing team has the resources they need to succeed. The same principle applies to Saskatoon: we must ensure the people who already live here are thriving before we add to our population. If we fail to do so, we risk creating a city divided by economic insecurity, where the benefits of diversity are overshadowed by frustration and resentment.
To make Saskatoon a truly diverse and inclusive place to live and work, we need to invest more in supporting our existing residents. This includes improving access to mental health services, expanding job retraining programs, and providing greater support for local entrepreneurs. A stable and supported community will be better equipped to welcome newcomers, integrating them into a shared sense of prospects
Edward Agbai
My campaign slogan is "We Grow Together," and Saskatoon should be able to implement specific anti-discrimination laws, such as those related to housing and employment, and provide targeted support for minority groups, such as indigenous communities and new immigrants, in all aspects of city life. This includes equitable access to services and opportunities for representation in decision-making bodies.
Saskatoon can provide a range of affordable housing options, including incentives for developers to build affordable units to ensure that people from different economic backgrounds can live comfortably in the city. This fosters a diverse population and reduces socio-economic barriers.
Supporting and promoting cultural festivals like FolkFest helps to promote cultural integration and continuity, including events and spaces that celebrate the diversity of the population.
Ensuring that public services, including healthcare, education, and transportation, are accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or abilities, should be a cornerstone of Saskatoon's commitment to equality and fairness.
Jamie Kirkpatrick
I support the revitalization of downtown Saskatoon. I am approaching the DEED project with cautious optimism and the understanding that current plans will not proceed without significant investments and commitments from the Province and support from the Federal government.
A vibrant downtown Saskatoon would help our communities and businesses to thrive. That said, the DEED project cannot be paid for with property taxes and must not divert spending from vital city infrastructure and services.
New and temporary revenue tools and funding options must be explored in detailed consultations with the people of Saskatoon before DEED is to proceed.
Holly Kelleher
The Downtown Event and Entertainment District (DEED) plan presents a bold vision with the potential to change the face of the city and be an economic driver by providing facilities to host large events, conferences, attract visitors to the city, boost complementary business in the downtown core and revitalizing the area to work, live and play. However, it is crucial to balance this enthusiasm with careful planning to ensure the DEED doesn’t become a financial burden but rather an economic driver for years to come.
My approach to the DEED is enthusiasm mixed with caution. A number of elements with the funding strategy are still to be determined including the levels and timing of proposed revenue tools including the Accommodation Funding Contributions, Amusement Taxes, and Tax Incremental Financing.
Question marks that still need to be answered before the DEED can proceed are, the amount of Provincial and Federal dollars that can be leveraged, the details of the private operator agreement, and private business contributions. The project needs to have an updated and complete economic benefit analysis completed which includes projections for activity and events hosted. A clear year-over-year revenue projection is needed to determine when a return will be realized on the initial investment. These pieces will clarify how the DEED can be built without increasing the current tax burden or diverting funds from core infrastructure and services. These are pieces I would look at closely, evaluate and take to constituents before a decision to proceed is made.
Justin Wiens
The Downtown Event & Entertainment District (DEED) project has been discussed for years, but I believe it should be placed on the backburner for now. As a business owner who values smart fiscal management, I see this project as a luxury, not a necessity, especially when Saskatoon faces more urgent priorities. We should focus on improving the existing downtown infrastructure, prioritizing safety, and ensuring responsible spending rather than taking on massive debt that future generations will have to bear.
Saskatoon already has event venues that could be modernized at a fraction of the cost of building an entirely new district. In my experience, upgrading what’s already in place is a far more cost-effective strategy. Instead of pouring money into a new entertainment center, we should be investing in public safety, reducing crime, and addressing homelessness—key concerns that are preventing downtown from being the vibrant area we all want it to be. If people don’t feel safe downtown, no new district is going to change that.
Additionally, the DEED project would likely require the city to borrow heavily, putting Saskatoon in significant debt for a project that doesn’t address our most pressing needs. In business, I’ve learned that growing too quickly or investing in the wrong projects can create long-term financial strain, and the same applies to the city. Borrowing money against future generations to fund a project that can wait is fiscally irresponsible, especially when we still have critical infrastructure that needs attention.
Municipal spending should be focused on improving existing services—fixing roads, enhancing public transportation, and ensuring public spaces are safe and clean. These investments deliver immediate value to residents and help build a foundation for long-term growth. The DEED can be revisited when we are in a stronger financial position, but right now, it’s not the best use of taxpayer dollars.
Edward Agbai
Here are my thoughts.
I place a high value on extensive community consultation, recognizing that the input from residents, businesses, and stakeholders is not just important, but integral to the success of the DEED project.
The city should conduct a thorough economic impact assessment to understand the long-term benefits and potential risks.
Another important consideration is a phased approach to development, starting with key infrastructure and amenities that can provide immediate benefits and gradually expand as funds and resources become available.
Explore public-private partnerships (PPPs) to leverage private sector investment and expertise while minimizing the financial burden on taxpayers.
Focus on projects with a high investment return for the community. For example, improving public transit, enhancing public spaces, and supporting local businesses can stimulate economic growth and improve quality of life.
Establish clear performance metrics to evaluate the success of the DEED project and other municipal investments. Regularly assess progress and adjust as needed to ensure goals are met.
Jamie Kirkpatrick
I believe we need an all hands on deck approach to address homelessness.
Everyone in our city deserves to live with dignity and respect. Housing is crucial to achieving this. I support the calls for a national taskforce to identify how cities can be helped in addressing the complex issues that lead people to become unhoused.
I support emergency measures to keep people safe during the cold, winter months.
I believe one option the city should explore is working with faith communities to identify temporary shelter options in churches, mosques, synagogues, and related places of worship, to keep unhoused people alive during the harshest winter months.
Holly Kelleher
Homelessness is a complex issue, closely tied to mental health, addiction, and poverty. While everyone agrees shelters and support services are essential for vulnerable populations, finding appropriate locations is met with resistance from individual neighborhoods. In Saskatoon, the growing challenges of homelessness, addiction, and mental health require a coordinated, integrated approach that includes input from front-line service providers, health professionals, and those directly affected by these issues.
Meaningful collaboration between the City and the Province is critical, as the Province is responsible for emergency shelters, mental health, and addiction services. By working together, we can explore better options for shelter locations that provide leveled care, treatment, and transition services, helping individuals move from temporary shelter toward stability. This might include retrofitting existing city or provincial buildings or constructing a purpose-built facility that offers wraparound support.
Addressing homelessness requires more than just physical space. It demands a system where individuals can access essential services like mental health care, addiction treatment, and pathways to affordable housing upon entry. Expanding the stock of affordable housing and partnering with community agencies to transition individuals from shelters into stable housing is crucial. To reduce long-term reliance on emergency shelters, an integrated service model is needed to help individuals access and keep stable housing.
I would advocate for stronger partnerships between the City, the Province, First Nation and Metis governments, and organizations who work with vulnerable populations to create solutions that are both compassionate and practical, offering real opportunities for people to rebuild their lives.
Justin Wiens
Homelessness in Saskatoon is a complex issue that requires a sustainable and long-term approach. As a business owner, I believe in solutions that offer real benefits to both individuals and the community, while also being cost-effective. One of the most successful models is the comprehensive resource center, which has been proven effective in cities like Medicine Hat. This "Housing First" model provides not only shelter but also healthcare, mental health support, addiction services, job training, and assistance in finding permanent housing. By offering this full range of support, individuals can stabilize and transition back into society, while reducing the strain on emergency services. Additionally, Saskatoon must focus on increasing affordable housing by offering zoning changes, fast-tracked approvals, and tax incentives to developers. Affordable housing allows people to regain stability, reducing long-term costs associated with homelessness and providing a more sustainable solution for the city. Prevention is also key. By partnering with local non-profits and community organizations to offer rental assistance, eviction prevention, and mental health services, Saskatoon can prevent homelessness before it starts.It is far more cost-effective to keep people housed than to address the challenges of homelessness later on. Short-term shelters that lack support services like healthcare or job assistance only provide temporary relief and fail to address the root causes of homelessness. Without the proper support, people are likely to remain in a cycle of homelessness. Additionally, criminalizing homelessness through punitive measures such as ticketing or arrests simply shifts the problem and burdens the justice system without providing real solutions. Saskatoon needs a comprehensive strategy that includes resource centers, affordable housing, and preventive measures.
Edward Agbai
The homelessness crisis facing Saskatoon is also facing other cities in the Prairie, such as Winnipeg. However, Winnipeg has deplored some innovative approaches, like
Housing First Initiative: By successfully adopting the Housing First model, Winnipeg prioritized providing individuals with stable housing before addressing other issues, such as mental health or addiction
End Homelessness Winnipeg: The Government of Manitoba, in partnership with "End Homelessness Winnipeg," leveraged the community's collective efforts to end homelessness. They achieved this through coordinated programs, advocating for policy changes, and efficient resource allocation. Their work includes funding initiatives and creating community-based solutions, making it a true reflection of the community's commitment to this cause.
Supportive Housing Projects: The city invested in supportive housing projects that offered more than shelter, like the' Main Street Project,' which included emergency shelter, detoxification, transitional housing, and mental health support services.
Indigenous-Focused Initiatives: The city, as a deliberate policy of government, recognized the pivotal role of indigenous-based authorities and organizations in the homelessness crisis because the Indigenous people have been disproportionately affected by homelessness, and developing culturally relevant housing programs was imperative. These programs were a testament to the city of Winnipeg's respect and value for Indigenous culture.
Policy and Advocacy: The city also focused on policy advocacy, working to influence provincial and federal policies that impact homelessness. This includes advocating for more affordable housing and supportive services for those in need.