The Government of Saskatchewan has announced an investment of over $1 million in 19 municipal projects through the Targeted Sector Support (TSS) Initiative. This funding aims to encourage regional collaboration among municipalities to improve service delivery and strengthen local communities across the province.
According to Government Relations Minister Eric Schmalz, the initiative supports municipalities in working together on projects that enhance the quality of life in Saskatchewan, making it a better place to live, work, and raise families. The TSS Initiative offers cost-shared grants, covering up to 75% of eligible project expenses, with a maximum contribution of $100,000 per project.
The funded projects include a wide range of collaborative efforts, such as lagoon expansion planning between the Town of Radisson and the Battlefords Tribal Council, joint bylaw enforcement training involving 18 municipalities, and the development of an updated emergency response plan by the R.M. of Argyle and two partners. These examples reflect the initiative’s focus on building capacity, enhancing efficiency, and promoting cooperation among municipalities.
The Saskatchewan Association of Urban Municipalities (SUMA) administers the TSS program on behalf of a steering committee composed of representatives from SUMA, the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM), New North (representing northern communities), and the Ministry of Government Relations. SUMA President Randy Goulden expressed appreciation for the government’s continued support, emphasizing the importance of the initiative in helping municipalities meet rising development and service demands.
SARM President Bill Huber also congratulated the latest funding recipients and encouraged rural municipalities to take advantage of the program. He highlighted the new continuous application intake process as a way to provide greater access to funding, thereby fostering stronger inter-municipal collaboration and sustainable regional development.
Since its inception in 2020, the TSS Initiative has committed over $6.5 million to 168 projects, demonstrating its ongoing role in enhancing municipal partnerships and supporting growth throughout Saskatchewan.
