Motivational Speaker Cody Demarais speaks at the SUMA Convention (SUMA/Facebook)

By Derek Cornet

networking

Air Ronge, La Ronge leaders attend 2023 SUMA convention

Apr 18, 2023 | 5:08 PM

Air Ronge and La Ronge are represented at the 2023 Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) convention in Saskatoon.

La Ronge Mayor Joe Hordyski is attending the convention, which runs from April 16-19, with four other council members. He explained while the town did not submit any resolutions this year, they did support most that were raised, including one to immediately increase Saskatchewan Income Support rates to meet the basic cost of living, restore direct rent and utilities payments for all that need them, and develop more supportive housing options for those deemed ‘hard to house’ due to mental health and addictions issues.

“There was a lot of focus on how the province is going to be dealing with the homeless situation,” Hordyski said.

“We had some sessions yesterday. One session was municipal well-being, and how we gear our policies and think when we make decisions on the wellness of people. Certainly, there’s a lot of initiatives we want to do. They need some financial support, and we will definitely need to lobby the government for additional funds to deal with those things to really properly address wellness within our community.”

The only resolution La Ronge council didn’t support was one to pressure the provincial government to allow for a one-year grace period with the mayor or councillors. The resolution stated if a mayor or councillor steps down or ceases to fill their position within one year following a general election, the candidate, if the original position was not acclaimed, with the next highest number of votes would acclaim the position.

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“We felt we believe in the electoral process,” Hordyski said. “Anytime there is a change in representation, the community should have direct input into that decision and not just have someone float over just because they were runner up.”

The convention is an opportunity for municipalities to influence policy and shape SUMA’s direction. It’s a chance for networking, learning and meeting with municipal, provincial or federal leaders.

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe made a speech to attendees on Monday, while Opposition Leader Carla Beck did so on Tuesday. This year’s keynote speaker was Cody Demerais and Joan McCusker was the master of ceremonies.

“I think it’s been a great convention,” Hordyski said. “It’s a great experience for some of our councillors. You really get a better understanding of what some of the challenges are. It’s an opportunity to link up with other community leaders and share stories and ideas. That’s where a lot of times some good ideas come back to our community and can influence some good decisions.”

larongeNOW reached out to Air Ronge Mayor Julie Baschuk for an interview, but she was unavailable.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @saskjourno