Resolution 9-03A

WHEREAS, the Province of Saskatchewan is comprised of large tracts of land that are unique in their formation; and

WHEREAS, these tracts of land have distinct environmental qualities necessitating stringent adherence to land use strategies; and

WHEREAS, the province has provided the authority to enforce such strategies under The Planning and Development Act, 1983; and

WHEREAS, this Act allows local government to develop zoning and development bylaws that prohibit or restrict development in these environmentally sensitive zoned areas;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the province abide by the rules of its own legislation, adhere to its policies and principles by supporting local governments in their endeavor to regulate and protect environmentally sensitive areas within their boundaries; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the integrity of municipal development bylaws instituted under The Planning and Development Act, 1983 be maintained and protected.

Response from the Honourable Ron Osika, Minister of Government Relations:

The Planning and Development Act, 1983 (the Act) permits municipalities to manage land use and development and protect the environment by adopting municipal planning bylaws. The Crown is bound by the Act and municipal planning bylaws. However, there are provincial interests in facilitating the use of provincial resources and economic development and in protecting the environment including environmentally sensitive areas. This dual provincial role requires GRAA to work with municipalities in developing a balanced approach to the competing use of land consistent with accommodating development in growing the Saskatchewan economy and in protecting the environment in the public interest.

Environmentally sensitive areas are protected through legislation such as The Environmental Assessment Act. The government is committed to working with municipalities on development issues to ensure consistency between municipal planning bylaws and broader provincial interests that impact our communities.