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November 2023
Note: Some email platforms distort the Rural Sheaf (RS) formatting. It is viewed best as a webpage through your internet browser.
View as Webpage
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SARM in Ottawa
Key meetings included the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Lawrence MacAulay, Deputy Minister of Transport Canada Arun Thangaraj, representatives from the office of Prairies Economic Development Canada, the Saskatchewan Conservative Caucus, various MPs, senators and opposition members, and more.
The SARM team also got an opportunity to take in question period.
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Those who made the journey and attended 21 meetings in Ottawa on October 24-26:
- President Ray Orb
- Vice President Bill Huber
- Division 1 Director Bob Moulding
- Division 2 Director Cody Jordison
- Division 6 Director Darwin Whitfield
- Ex-Officio Director Guy Lagrandeur
- Executive Director Jay Meyer
- Manager of Advocacy Brian Rakochy
- Senior Policy Analyst Alicia Bay, and
- Policy Analyst Deanna Nichols
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SARM Priorities
Read the fall 2023 priority information sheets that SARM took to Ottawa.
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Some of the representatives that SARM met with include the following:
- Minister Lawrence MacAulay (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada)
- Deputy Minister Stefanie Beck (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada)
- MP Bonita Zarrillo
- President Diane Gray (Prairies Economic Development Canada)
- Assistant Deputy Minister, Saskatchewan, Alastair MacFadden (Prairies Economic Development Canada)
- Assistant Deputy Minister Gerard Peets (Infrastructure Canada)
- MP John Barlow
- Senator Rob Black
- Senator David Arnot
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- MP Brendan Hanley
- Executive Director Mathieu Bélanger (FCM)
- Senior Special Assistant Meghan Pritchard (Office of the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade, and Economic Development)
- Acting Executive Director Frédéric Bissonnette (PMRA)
- Associate Deputy Minister Lawrence Hanson (Environment and Climate Change Canada)
- Senior Vice President Michèle Beck (Telesat)
- Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister Terry Duguid
- Deputy Minister Arun Thangaraj (Transport Canada)
- Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport Vance Badawey
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That's a Wrap on #SARMMidterm2023
If you missed anything during convention, you can review both days using the provided links, or visit SARM's channel on YouTube to see this, and more.
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SARM Annual Convention on YouTube
Live Stream Links:
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Board Recognition
At SARM, Board Recognition is one of our most cherished and longstanding traditions—a celebration! It allows the Board the privilege of saying thank you to the far-reaching contributions of our retiring members
On behalf of the entire SARM Board, thank you, Norm Nordgulen and Harvey Malanowich, for all you’ve done to support communities, SARM initiatives, and those around you. We wish you the best and know that you’ll continue to inspire great things in rural Saskatchewan.
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SARM RM Directory
Don't forget to update the RM Directory on the SARM website. This will ensure that SARM and the public are kept up to date with current RM council details. This is also where we pull the information for SARM's convention name badges.
To access your RM Directory profile on the SARM website, please log in here and click on the “Manage your RM Directory Listing” link that is located under the Administrator’s Access for Updates heading on the Members Only homepage.
If you require any assistance, please contact coordinator@sarm.ca.
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Christina Berry
Programs Administrative Assistant
306.761.3736 | cberry@sarm.ca
Christina provides administration support to SARM’s Programs team as the Programs Administrative Assistant. Her favourite part of her job is being able to work within a variety of different program areas and loves helping out whenever needed.
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Candace Jennings
Accounting Assistant
306.761.3728 | assistant@sarm.ca
Candace is SARM's new Accounting Assistant in the Finance Department where she lends her extensive experience in office administration and accounts payables and receivables to support the team.
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Danielle Schindelka
Senior Legal Counsel
306.761.3743 | dschindelka@sarm.ca
Danielle has recently joined the SARM team as Senior Legal Counsel in the Risk Management Department. She brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience which will greatly benefit our membership.
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Gaylene Mellon
Transportation Infrastructure Program Administrator
306.761.6651 | gmellon@sarm.ca
Gaylene is a familiar face at SARM and has transitioned into a new role in the Programs Department where she will administer the Rural Integrated Roads for Growth (RIRG) program as the Transportation Infrastructure Program Administrator.
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Awards/Nominations/Scholarships | | |
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2024 Saskatchewan Order of Merit
The Saskatchewan Order of Merit was established in 1985 to celebrate excellence and achievement by Saskatchewan citizens. To date, 272 individuals have been invested with the Order in appreciation of their significant contributions in areas such as agriculture, business, industry, community leadership, public service, art, research, and volunteering.
Nominations will be accepted until November 30, 2023. Online nominations are encouraged, but nominations will also be accepted by mail, courier or in-person.
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Awarded to Reeves, Councillors, or Administrators (active or retired)
for their lifetime contribution to rural Saskatchewan.
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2024 Lieutenant Governor's Award Nomination Period:
NOV 1, 2023 - JAN 31, 2024
Candidates must be nominated
by an RM, with council’s approval, and administrator’s sign-off.
The selection committee includes representatives from:
- Lieutenant’s Governor’s Office of Saskatchewan
- Ministry of Government Relations
- Rural Administrators’ Association
- Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities
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Please include the following information with your nominations:
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A completed Nomination Form
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Biographical information based on the Nomination Guidelines
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Submissions to be emailed to: sarm@sarm.ca
Should you have further questions regarding the 2024 Lieutenant Governor’s Award, please contact Penni Greensides, Committee Coordinator directly at (306) 761-3731 or email executivecoordinator@sarm.ca.
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Targeted Sector Support (TSS) Initiative | |
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Community Rink Affordability Grant Program
The Government of Saskatchewan has committed $1.6 million in 2023-24 for the program which, provides funding for community-owned indoor skating and curling rinks.
In 2022-23, a total of the 581 ice surfaces received funding, including 376 skating rinks and 205 curling rinks. A $2,500 grant is available for each ice surface, per year for municipally-owned facilities, schools, Indigenous communities and non-profit organizations.
The Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association (SPRA) administers and delivers the program on behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan.
Applications can be submitted until January 16, 2023.
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The deadline for submission of the declaration is January 31, 2024. Please ensure the declaration is submitted by the deadline, even if the municipality does not meet all eligibility requirements. | |
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New Interim Standard and Codes of Practice
Fisheries and Oceans Canada is excited to announce the Fish and Fish Habitat Protection Program will engage on an interim Standard for in-water isolation intended to address Wave 1 feedback, as well as four proposed new interim Codes of Practice:
- Bridge repair and maintenance;
- Municipal and agricultural drain maintenance;
- Repair and maintenance of in-water structures; and,
- Repair, maintenance and construction of docks, moorings and boathouses.
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FFHPP is seeking input on the clarity and scope of the new interim SCoPs to validate and improve the management measures used to protect fish and fish habitat.
An analysis and review of feedback received will be required before this interim Code of Practice, and the interim Standard and Codes of Practice released August 10, 2023, are published as final.
Comments and feedback are welcome until November 30, 2023.
Please send any comments or questions to DFO.FFHPP-PPPH.MPO@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.
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CIF Call for Peer Review Committee Volunteers
The Community Initiatives Fund (CIF) is inviting applications from individuals throughout Saskatchewan who are interested in serving on one of our four regional Peer Review Committees! Openings are currently available for our North, Central, South, and Provincial committees for the 2024-26 term.
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Peer Review Committees are responsible for reviewing applications for our Community Grant Program and providing informed funding recommendations to the CIF Board of Directors. Volunteer alongside energetic leaders from across the province who are passionate about their communities and have knowledge and experience with the needs of their region and the nonprofit organizations who operate there.
To apply, send your completed application form to asawatzky@cifsask.org by November 30, 2023.
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Future Supply Plan – 2030 and Beyond - STAGE 3
Join the conversation about Saskatchewan’s power future
In 2022, SaskPower started talking to Saskatchewan people about how the province is powered. That’s because the power system is changing, and SaskPower is in the process of updating their long-term power supply plan.
In Stages 1 and 2 people were asked about their values, priorities, and about the power supply options they preferred. This information was used to develop scenarios that show what the SK power system could look like in the future.
Now, in Stage 3 there are four ways to participate and give feedback on how to power the province in the future:
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Essentials Workshops
These two-hour, in-person and online workshops are intended for those who are keen to grow their knowledge of supply planning. Our team of experts will visit 5 Saskatchewan cities and offer 3 online sessions to hear from you! Participants will have a chance to win a $100 VISA gift card at the end of each in-person and online workshop.
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Discovery Kit
If you want to explore potential pathways to net zero from the comfort of your home or office, the Discovery activity kit is for you. Include family, friends, coworkers, or students and enjoy the freedom to learn and engage on your own terms! Participants who mail their feedback by Dec. 15 will be entered into a draw to win a $250 VISA gift card.
Order Discovery kits starting NOV 1.
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Survey
If you only have 10 minutes to spare, this is the way to give us your feedback quickly! Everyone who completes the survey will have a chance to win 1 of 10 $250 VISA gift cards.
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Feedback on Regulations Under The Plant Health Act
The Ministry of Agriculture is modernizing the pest legislation to reflect the current conditions in Saskatchewan. The Pests Declaration Regulations, The Bacterial Ring Rot Control Regulations, and The Late Blight Control Regulations are being reviewed to align them with the new Plant Health Act.
Your feedback is important; please complete the survey linked below. The deadline to submit your feedback has been extended to January 4, 2024.
If you have any questions, please contact Raul Avila, Provincial Specialist, Pest Regulatory, at 306-787-7474 or by email at raul.avila@usask.ca.
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SARM Interactive Online Calendar - December 2023 | |
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Deadlines
December 10:
- Deadline to remit and return monthly EPT funds
- Deadline to remit taxes to SMHI, C&D and regional parks
December 15:
- Deadline to CRA source deductions remittance
December 31:
- Deadline to send forms to Ministry of Agriculture (Weed Control Act)
- Deadline to submit accounts for designated road program
- End of fiscal year for RMs
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Meetings
- Committee Meeting: December 5
- Board Meeting: December 6-7
- Committee Meeting: December 14
Monthly Reminder(s)
- MEPP employee and employer contributions through PLANet, as well as submitting payment is due within 15 days from the end of the pay period
- Make supplemental changes to assessment roll (earlier cut off date may be imposed, but not earlier than September 30)
- Add to taxes: Unpaid custom work, outstanding pest control expenditures, penalty (arrears)
Special Days
- Christmas Eve: December 24
- Christmas Day: December 25
- Boxing Day: December 26
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View the SARM Interactive Online Calendar to access the full year on the SARM website. This version is updated regularly as new dates of interest and deadlines are identified and should be viewed as the most current | |
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Check out the SARM Interactive Publications & Social Media information page for the multiple ways SARM shares information.
Click below or on the image for the full size PDF
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SAVE THE DATE!
One-Day Plant Health Training Opportunities
SARM and the Plant Health Technical Advisors are facilitating one-day training opportunities for Pest Control Officers, Administrators and Councillors in January 2024.
Registration will be required and space will be limited. Watch your email for registration and agenda information coming soon!
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Training Dates
Wednesday, January 17 – Western Development Museum, Saskatoon
Thursday, January 18 – Atlas Hotel, Regina
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Rural Municipal Administrator Internship Program (MAIP)
Step into the role of internship supervision and shape the future one-on-one! The Rural Municipal Administrator Internship Program (MAIP) offers a unique opportunity for Class A or Superior A Rural Administrators to provide individualized training and foster professional competency in future rural municipal administrators by helping them attain the necessary competencies and required hours for their “Rural Class C certification” throughout the 52-week internship period.
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Why Choose to be a MAIP Internship Supervisor?
- Legacy Building: By investing in aspiring rural municipal administrators, you leave a lasting legacy of healthy local government in rural communities.
- Tailored Development: Customize the internship experience to address specific skills and goals, ensuring maximum impact, offering practical guidance, feedback, and real-world insights that go beyond academic learning.
- Leadership and Strategic Skill Building: Hone your leadership skills by actively participating in the growth and development of a future Administrator.
- Financial Benefit: Upon approval, SARM will provide the selected host rural municipalities with a $17,000 grant intended to cost share the intern’s salary. The supervising administrator of record will also receive a $3,000 honorarium upon successfully completing the internship supervision.
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If you would like to learn more about becoming a supervising administrator for a MAIP intern, please check out the information on the SARM website or call Dustin Resch, Manager of Programs, at (306) 761-3945. | | |
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Date: November 30, 2023
Time: 1 - 4:30PM
Location: Virtual
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Community and Land Use Planning
The Community and Land Use Planning module will cover a variety of topics including: the roles and responsibilities of council, administration and the public; the creation, adoption, and amendment process for Official Community Plans and Zoning Bylaws; the subdivision process; servicing agreements; the development permit process; the development appeal board process; enforcing bylaws; the building permit process as well as regional planning.
This module is now offered online through Southeast College.
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Date: Always Available
Location: Virtual
Cost: $75 + GST
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Asset Management is not a sprint. It is not a marathon. It is a relay.
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With an election in 2024, AM-SK wants to help you pass the baton to the next Council.
Build knowledge and technical capacity by taking advantage of AM-SK's offer for as many free seats as your organization needs for online, self-paced asset management training.
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Use the code AMmadeEasier for
FREE training.
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Occupational Health & Safety Snow Removal Exemption
The snow removal exemption, including the required agreement, is linked below for your reference and use. As in the past, this only applies to residents contracted by an individual rural municipality to remove snow who meets the conditions of the exemption and who signs an agreement to comply with the conditions set out in the exemption. This exemption is in effect until November 30, 2025.
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Expanded Communities at Risk: Security Infrastructure Program
Public Safety Canada is pleased to announce that the Expanded Communities at Risk: Security Infrastructure Program (Expanded SIP) call for applications is now open and accepting requests for funding.
Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis until March 31, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time (PT), or until all funding has been allocated. All projects supported through the expanded SIP must be completed and all funding spent by March 31, 2024.
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In addition to the recipients and activities currently eligible for funding through the SIP, the expanded SIP will:
- allow for the provision of funding for time-limited security personnel;
- support security measures at additional publicly accessible, community-based facilities used by Canadian, privately run, not-for-profit organizations, such as daycares and office spaces.
To apply and learn more about eligibility, please visit Public Safety Canada's website.
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The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health is keeping everyone updated on the province’s Health Human Resources Action Plan with this infographic highlighting key areas of success. | |
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Turn in Poachers and Polluters (TIPP)
Have information about a resource or environmental violation? Call Saskatchewan's 24-hour, toll-free Turn In Poachers and Polluters (TIPP) line and help conservation officers protect Saskatchewan's natural resources and environment.
In 2022, the province's TIPP line received 1,440 reports about illegal hunting, fishing and timber harvesting, as well as environmental offences such as illegal dumping or burning. Many investigations that started with a TIPP call ended with convictions.
You can share information with conservation officers in the following ways:
- Call your local field office;
- Call the TIPP phone line, toll-free, at 1-800-667-7561; or
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Report a violation online at saskatchewan.ca/tipp.
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The following RM’s have requested the information below to be distributed and will be billed for using this service. | |
Looking to Hire:
RM of Beaver River No. 622, Office Clerk, DEC 22 - Close
RM of Lake Johnston No. 102, Administrator, DEC 20 - Close
RM of Maple Bush No. 224, Grader Operator/Maintenance Worker, DEC 14 - Close
RM of Whiska Creek No. 106, Equipment Operator, DEC 14 - Close
RM of Craik No. 222, Administrative Assistant, DEC 13 - Close
RM of Prairie Rose No. 309, Permanent Full-Time Working Foreman, DEC 7 - Close
RM of Sasman No. 336, Administrator, DEC 2 - Close
RM of Corman Park No. 344, Planner 2, DEC 1 - Close
RM of Reciprocity No. 32, Public Works Supervisor, NOV 25 - Close
RM of Milton No. 292, Administrator, NOV 25 - Close
Resort Village of Cochin, Chief Administrative Officer, NOV 25 - Close
City of Melfort, City Treasurer, NOV 24 - Close
Looking to Buy/Sell:
RM of Flett's Springs No. 429, For Sale: 2019 Case IH Maxxum 145 Tractor, DEC 14 - Close
RM of Whiska Creek No. 106, For Sale: 2010 CAT 140M VHP Motor Grader, DEC 14 - Close
RM of Progress No. 351, For Tender: 2015 Cat 140M AWD Motor Grader, DEC 13 - Close
RM of Reciprocity No. 32, For Tender: 2001 Capital I Left-Hand Snow Wing and 2015 Brandt Left Side Postless Snow Wing, DEC 13 - Close
RM of Winslow No. 319, For Tender: 2019 Bush Hog Mower Model 4815XD, DEC 11 - Close
RM of Hoodoo No. 401, For Sale: 1999 Terex TS14D-II, DEC 7 - Close
RM of Progress No. 351, For Tender: 2017 Case 885-AWD Motor Grader, DEC 1 - Close
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If you have questions or would like to post in the SARM Classifieds contact: (306) 757-3577 or sarm@sarm.ca
Please send your advertisement in a Word Document.
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Rural Integrated Roads for Growth (RIRG) | |
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Clearing the Path (CTP) Corridors
Statutory Declaration Reminder
Rural Municipalities with a CTP Corridor:
This is a reminder to submit your 2023 RIRG CTP Incremental Maintenance Statutory Declaration if you have not already through the online form. This form is required to be completed annually confirming that the Road Authority has maintained the Corridor(s) to a safe and suitable level as described in their CTP Incremental Maintenance Funding Agreement.
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Canoe Electrical Supply Program
Your organization depends on its electrical products. Electrical wire and connectors, interior automation, commercial lighting, smart home devices, ballasts, and more play a critical role in keeping your operations running smoothly. The Canoe Electrical Supply Program can help you source the equipment you need for a project done right.
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Municipal Leaders' Roles & Responsibilities
Presented by: MLDP
The 2023 Municipal Leaders’ Roles and Responsibilities seminar will be held virtually over Microsoft Teams. This webinar will provide information to newly-elected council members about their roles and responsibilities as a council member of their local government. The presentations would also serve as a good refresher for existing council members.
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Those attending this seminar will be given credit for MLDP Module 1, so please ensure that everyone attending is registered separately (even if you are watching as a group) for tracking purposes.
Date: November 30, 2023
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Location: Microsoft Team
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SARM Webinars
SARM offers webinars for members. Not only can you participate in these live, but you can also have them as a resource to view again when it’s convenient. Past topics have included:
- Fire Bans and Emergency Preparedness
- Municipal Safety Manual
- Civic Addressing
- Municipal Leaders' Roles and Responsibilities
- Tendering and Procurement Best Practices
- Mental Wellness in Agriculture – Fostering Resiliency
- Nuclear Power in Saskatchewan
- Principles for Positive Employment Relations
- And more
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That’s a wrap! #SARMMidterm2023 is over for another year. Thank you to everyone who helped to make it a success. | | |
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To date, SARM members have donated over $4.4 million to STARS Air Ambulance. Thank you STARS for the life-saving resources that you provide to Saskatchewan. | | |
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Resolutions are an integral part of #SARMMidterm2023 and will direct SARM’s focus for the upcoming year. | | |
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We appreciate Brad Blaisdell from Respect Group for joining us at the #SARMMidterm2023 fireside chat on respect in the workplace or around the boardroom table | | | | |
