Throne Speech Shows Support for Municipalities
Today’s Speech from the Throne gives SARM optimism for the future. “We are pleased that the Provincial Government is committed to addressing the issues of revenue sharing, property tax relief and finding solutions for the agriculture sector,” said SARM President David Marit.
SARM is glad that the government has promised to support municipalities by negotiating a new revenue sharing agreement with municipalities that will include a percentage of the province’s own source revenue. SARM also appreciates that the government will provide immediate, increased assistance to municipalities while these agreements are being negotiated.
Education tax relief has been a high priority for SARM for a long time. SARM is pleased that the government is proceeding with its election promise to double rebates on the education portion of property tax over the next four years.
School closure is an issue many communities are facing which affects opportunities for growth and economic development. SARM is pleased that the new government will examine revising The Education Act, “to improve the consultation and assessment process before significant changes are made to school facilities. The potential for future economic growth and the necessity of having schools within a reasonable distance of all students must be rigorously assessed, prior to any changes.”
SARM is also encouraged to hear that the new government plans to work with farm groups and the federal government to find solutions to the problems Saskatchewan’s agricultural producers are facing. “It is essential that the province work with the federal government to ensure effective programs are in place to address the needs of the agriculture industry,” said Marit, “fully funding the province’s share of the Canadian Agricultural Income Stabilization Program (CAIS) is a good first step.”
“We look forward to working with Premier Wall and his team to address these issues as well as others,” said Marit, “as we all share the same goal; a vibrant, diverse economy resulting in a strong sustainable Saskatchewan”.
For more information contact:
David Marit
SARM President
Cell Phone: (306) 476-7754
Ken Engel
SARM Executive Director
Direct: (306) 757-3578
Cell: (306) 536-2948
