SUMA aims to tackle infrastructure, safety at convention in Regina

More than 1,000 municipal leaders are gathering in Regina this week for a convention that could shape how communities across Saskatchewan address some of their biggest challenges.

From aging infrastructure to public safety concerns and pressure on local services, the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) convention is where those issues are brought forward and pushed directly to decision-makers.

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“It’s an absolutely excellent opportunity to connect with municipalities and talk about some of the challenges that we’re all facing,” said SUMA president Randy Goulden.

“We get to talk directly with municipal and provincial governments from right across the province.”

SUMA president Randy Goulden speaking to reporters in Regina on Oct. 25, 2023. Goulden says SUMA’s annual convention offers an “excellent opportunity to connect with municipalities and talk about some of the challenges that we’re all facing,” (Lisa Schick/980 CJME)

The convention, which kicked off on Sunday, runs until Wednesday at the REAL District, bringing together elected officials and staff from cities, towns and villages across Saskatchewan.

While the event includes networking and education sessions, its biggest impact often comes from advocacy, especially through resolutions brought forward by municipalities.

“We really get to connect with other people from across this province and share best practices,” Goulden said.

This year, advocacy is expected to centre heavily on infrastructure, health care and public safety, three areas municipalities say continue to strain local resources.

Across the province, communities have been raising concerns about everything from maintaining roads and water systems to policing costs and access to care, issues which are expected to come up repeatedly throughout the convention.

“One of the main focuses around our convention is our resolutions, because that helps form our advocacy platforms,” Goulden said.

“We have 11 resolutions that are coming to us, and they really range on our three main focus areas: infrastructure, health care and public safety.”

The convention also gives municipal leaders direct access to provincial and federal decision-makers, including Premier Scott Moe.

For many attending, that access is key, especially as municipalities seek support and funding to address growing pressures.

SUMA said the convention is designed to help communities not only share challenges, but also push for solutions and influence public policy moving forward. But for Goulden, the biggest value still comes from the people in the room.

“I’m looking forward to talking to the leaders from across the province, because they’re the ones that make our municipalities strong,” she said.

“They’re community members themselves, so I’m looking forward to having those conversations with them to see how we can, working together, become even stronger.”