WHEREAS the Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency (SAMA) has experienced an approximate $2.1 million budget reduction due to provincial government cutbacks;

WHEREAS there is discussion to reduce the number of SAMA regional offices; and

WHEREAS the North Battleford SAMA office covers many northern municipalities which are up to a six hour drive from Saskatoon;

BE IT RESOLVED that SARM lobby the Provincial Government to retain the SAMA regional office in North Battleford.

Response from Honourable Darryl Hickie, Minister of Municipal Affairs:

• The Ministry has consulted with the Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency (SAMA). SAMA recognizes the importance of maintaining a regional presence in the northwest part of the province and advises it does not plan to close the North Battleford office.
• SAMA is an independent agency. The agency makes operational decisions separate from the provincial government. SAMA is governed by a seven member Board of Directors. Members are nominated by the provincial government, SUMA and SARM.