Mayor Julie Baschuk, center, is seen with Coun. James Hope Howard and Chief Administrative Officer Tammy McCormick. (Image Credit: Facebook/Julie Baschuk)

By Derek Cornet

annual meeting

Two Air Ronge resolutions pass at SUMA convention

Apr 16, 2026 | 5:01 PM

Air Ronge council had two resolutions approved at the annual Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) convention this week in Regina.

The first resolution was for SUMA to advocate to the provincial government to develop and implement a rotating schedule of bylaw enforcement officials throughout the North to reduce administrative burdens and ensure consistent, fair, efficient, and visible enforcement of municipal regulations.

They brought the motion forward because council believes consistent and equitable enforcement of municipal bylaws is essential to uphold community standards, but doing so in the North can be hindered due to limited staffing and the administrative workload.

The second resolution which was passed is for SUMA to advocate the provincial and federal governments to maintain existing fuel breaks and expand fuel mitigation efforts, including vegetation management and other approved measures, to reduce wildfire risk and enhance community safety. The resolution also calls for SUMA pressure both governments to maintain CAT guard perimeter (dozer line) for fire guarding and prevention purposes, ensuring it remains functional, accessible, and effective throughout the fire season and as conditions warrant.

“When a resolution is successful and carried, it simply means that the SUMA board will work to advocate/lobby the provincial government on our behalf,” Air Ronge Mayor Julie Baschuk wrote in a statement.

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“Why this is important: it has more people on the ground working towards resolution on the issues facing Saskatchewan municipalities [which is] always a good thing.”

Baschuk was also able to speak with a number of provincial ministers about several issues facing the community. Those topics included wildfire response and planning, the highway corridor project, as well as policing, housing, mental health and addictions, infrastructure, access to care, jurisdictional issues, and transportation.

“During the session with the Hon. Eric Schmalz, Minister of Government Relations, I spoke to the room and discussed the importance of municipalities maintaining autonomy. Our region has many examples that exemplify cooperation and collaboration, cross jurisdictions,” Baschuk noted.

“It shows that communities can co-exist while keeping the identity that makes each community unique, special and one that residents are proud to call home. As mayor, I hear how important retaining our autonomy is, and it was reassuring to hear that the Provincial Government of Saskatchewan has no intention to force municipal districts or amalgamation. We heard this loud and clear from both Minister Schmalz and Premier Moe.”

derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

by Derek Cornet

Two Air Ronge resolutions pass at SUMA convention

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