YORKTON — Mayor Aaron Kienle says the annual Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) convention offers more than just a chance to discuss policy, but also a chance to learn and connect.
Kienle is among municipal leaders gathering in Regina for the four-day convention, which runs until Wednesday.
“I think it’s a great opportunity to meet other people who are involved in the same work as you,” Kienle said. “It also gives you a chance to connect with government officials and others who have been doing this for a long time.”
The convention includes sessions with provincial cabinet ministers, opposition members and municipal representatives from across Saskatchewan.
Kienle said those conversations often provide practical insights that go beyond formal presentations.
“There’s always something you can take away,” he said. “You hear what’s working in other communities and sometimes it’s a small idea that can make a big difference when you bring it home.”
A key component of the convention is the resolutions brought forward by municipalities. Those votes help guide the association’s advocacy work in the coming year.
Among the items catching Kienle’s attention are proposals on regional cost-sharing, municipal revenue tools and support for fire services.
One resolution calls for greater collaboration between cities and surrounding rural municipalities to share the cost of services such as recreation facilities and libraries.
Another focuses on municipal finances, including the role cities play in collecting provincial education property taxes and the limited tools available to generate revenue beyond property taxes.
“There are conversations about how municipalities can be supported a little better,” Kienle said. “We want to be good stewards of taxpayer money, but also have the tools to meet growing demands.”
Resolutions related to fire departments are also expected to draw attention, particularly as emergency services increasingly respond to calls beyond traditional firefighting, including mental health and social issues.
Kienle said the convention also provides an opportunity to discuss major projects affecting Yorkton, including upgrades to the city’s wastewater treatment system and progress toward a new hospital.
“We’re looking to talk to communities that have been successful in getting those projects funded and built,” he said. “Understanding those timelines and processes is really valuable.”
Beyond formal sessions, Kienle noted that informal conversations are a major benefit of attending.
He recalled discussions at a previous convention that helped spark interest in bringing larger events to Yorkton, including a summer music festival now expected to take place.
“You don’t always go looking for something specific, but you end up finding ideas that fit your community.”
The mayor said he expects to return with new insights to share with council and residents.
