Gratitude in a Time of Grief
With Deepest Thanks
There are no words that can fully capture the weight of the loss of our daughter, Joy, or how difficult it has been to come to terms with it. Grief is not a journey with a clear path, and while the pain remains, what has stood out the most is the overwhelming kindness, love, and support from so many of you.
To everyone who has reached out through messages, calls, prayers, visits, or simply standing with me in spirit, thank you. Your words of comfort and your presence have meant more than I can express. Every message, whether shared privately or publicly, has been felt deeply and appreciated.
Healing takes time. But knowing I am surrounded by a compassionate and caring community brings strength and hope. Betty and I are deeply grateful for your continued patience, understanding, and generosity during this difficult time.
With sincere appreciation,
Your servant,
Senos Timon
Council Updates – Highlights from February & March
Affordable Housing Incentives
On February 26, City Council approved over $15 million in capital grants and tax abatements to support the development of 256 new affordable housing units at the following locations in Saskatoon:
- Downtown: 231 23rd Street East & 155 3rd Avenue North
- Lakewood: A portion of 1635 McKercher Drive
- Broadway & Ruth area
These investments are part of a broader initiative to address the shortage of affordable housing in Saskatoon. In total, the program aims to deliver 757 new units by the end of 2027, funded through the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF). Link
Saskatoon Transit 2025 Fleet Renewal
To address Saskatoon’s aging transit fleet while a zero-emissions transition plan is underway, the City Council has approved the purchase of new, cost-effective diesel and gas-powered buses.
At its February 26 meeting, the Council approved:
A $23.5 million investment (from previously approved 2024 and 2025 budget borrowing) for:
- 17 Standard 40-foot diesel buses – $17 M
- 4 Articulated 60-foot diesel buses – $5.6M
- 3 Access Transit gas buses – $ 923,900
Adjustments to the Transit Replacement Buses Capital Project:
- An increase of $23,900 from the Transit Vehicles Replacement Reserve
- A transfer of $923,900 to support Access Transit bus replacements
This decision reflects the City’s commitment to maintaining a reliable public transit system while planning for a future transition to zero-emission vehicles.
E-Scooter Program Extension
City Council, at its Regular Business meeting held on Feb 26, approved the extension of the shared e-scooter pilot on public rights-of-way. This means continued access to e-scooters across the city while staff monitor safety and community use.
22nd Street & Confederation Drive Upgrades Approved
On March 26, City Council approved the updated design for the 22nd Street West and Confederation Drive intersection. The plan improves safety and traffic flow between Diefenbaker Drive and Confederation Drive and aligns with the Circle Drive West Functional Planning Study.
Highlights:
- Improved safety and traffic operations
- Enhanced pedestrian access at Fairmont & Fairlight
- New turning lanes and eastbound travel lane
- Upgraded signage, drainage, and accessibility
These changes will make 22nd Street safer and more efficient for all road users. link here
Short-Term Rental Enforcement Update
At its Regular Business Meeting on March 26, City Council approved the Short-Term Rental Enforcement Fund (STREF), supported by funding from Housing, Infrastructure, and Communities Canada.
This initiative will strengthen the City of Saskatoon’s current short-term rental regulations and support enforcement activities aimed at increasing the availability of long-term housing options.
About the Short-Term Rental Enforcement Fund:
- The City will receive $380,000 over three years
- The funding will support local enforcement efforts and public education campaigns
- No impact on the municipal tax rate
2024 Preliminary Year-End Results
The City of Saskatoon has reported positive year-end results for 2024, with both the Civic Operating Budget and Utility Budget ending in surplus. The Civic Operating Budget recorded a $12.27 million surplus, representing a 1.96% positive variance from the approved budget. This surplus is primarily attributed to $9.14 million in higher-than-anticipated investment income.
At its Regular Business Meeting on March 26, City Council approved that the surplus be allocated across various business lines, including a transfer to the Fiscal Stabilization Reserve to help the City better manage future budgetary pressures.
Infrastructure Maintenance
King George, Riversdale & Pleasant Hill – Water Main Preservation Project
Between May and October 2025, the City will carry out water main upgrades in King George, Riversdale, and Pleasant Hill. Work includes:
- Water main lining and replacement
- Road surface improvements
- Pedestrian accessibility upgrades
This project will enhance water system reliability and ensure safer infrastructure for residents.
Upcoming Meetings
All meetings are open to the public. Join in person or stream online.
Council Regular Business Meeting
- Wednesday, April 23, 9:30 AM & 6:00 PM (Public Hearing)
Governance & Priorities Committee
- Wednesday, April 9, 9:30 AM
Board of Police Commissioners
- Thursday, April 17, 1:00 PM
City News
2nd Annual Feast & Round Dance – Everyone Welcome!
Friday, March 28, 2025
Cosmo Civic Centre
Feast: 4:00 PM
Round Dance: 6:00 PM
This event is part of the City’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. Rooted in First Nations tradition, the round dance celebrates life and unity through community. Bring your friends and family; everyone is welcome, and there’s no cost to attend.
Thank you for staying informed and engaged in our community. If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas, feel free to reach out at any time.
In service,
Senos Timon
City Councillor – Ward 2
senos.timon@saskatoon.ca