The 2024 SUMA Convention and Tradeshow began on Sunday at the Regina Exhibition Association Limited (REAL) District. Attendees heard from Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe about the provincial government’s efforts to support the needs of urban municipalities. Premier Moe highlighted investments in classrooms, care, and communities, as well as increased funding in the Municipal Revenue Sharing program. He emphasized the importance of working together to promote a strong economy for future investments. SUMA President Randy Goulden expressed concern about the deficit in infrastructure and called for collaboration between municipal, provincial, and federal governments to address the issue.
One of the key topics discussed at the convention was the need for increased funding for infrastructure in municipalities. Goulden highlighted the importance of partnerships between government levels to address the deficit in areas such as water, wastewater, roads, and sidewalks. He emphasized that municipalities provide a significant amount of infrastructure in Canada and need adequate funding to continue providing essential services. Premier Moe expressed willingness to work with other government levels to create a new fiscal framework to address failing infrastructure in municipalities.
The SUMA Convention is set to run until April 17, providing a platform for government officials and stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities facing urban municipalities. Premier Moe’s address focused on the province’s commitment to building communities and supporting economic growth through strategic investments. The Municipal Revenue Sharing program saw a significant increase this year, with $340 million being transferred to municipalities. This no-strings-attached funding is aimed at supporting local communities and addressing their infrastructure needs.
Goulden stressed the importance of municipal, provincial, and federal governments collaborating to address the infrastructure deficit in municipalities. He called for a new fiscal framework that would prioritize investments in bridges, roads, and other critical infrastructure projects. Premier Moe echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the need for partnership and collaboration to ensure that communities have access to the resources they need. The discussions at the convention revolved around finding solutions to the challenges facing urban municipalities and working together to create a sustainable and prosperous future for all residents.
The convention brought together government officials, industry experts, and stakeholders to discuss pressing issues facing urban municipalities in Saskatchewan. Premier Moe’s address highlighted the province’s commitment to supporting local communities through strategic investments and funding programs like the Municipal Revenue Sharing initiative. Goulden emphasized the importance of addressing the infrastructure deficit and called for increased collaboration between government levels to find sustainable solutions. The convention provided a platform for open discussions and dialogue on ways to promote economic growth, build strong communities, and address the needs of urban municipalities in the province.
