TRI-PARTITE AGREEMENT TO INVEST $10 MILLION INTO CITY OF REGINA

A new Urban Development Agreement between the Government of Canada, the Government of Saskatchewan and the City of Regina will invest $10 million in Regina's quality of life, with an initial focus on the city's inner-city neighbourhoods and downtown revitalization.

Federal Finance Minister Ralph Goodale, Saskatchewan Finance Harry Van Mulligen and Regina Mayor Pat Fiacco announced the five-year agreement today.

"Canadians want our cities and communities to be the best in the world – great places to live and do business," said Minister Goodale, on behalf of Stephen Owen, Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport). "The Regina Urban Development Agreement is about governments working together with the people of Regina to support that vision and find local solutions to local challenges."

"The Urban Development Agreement demonstrates the commitment of the governments of Canada, Saskatchewan and Regina to collaborate and work together," Van Mulligen said on behalf of Government Relations Minister Len Taylor. "The three levels of government will also work with community groups, Aboriginal groups and organizations and the private sector to ensure that the outcomes of urban development benefit all residents of Regina."

"With the three orders of government working together with the community, we can help to ensure Regina's inner city and downtown are able share in the quality of life which is such a great strength of our city," Fiacco said. "As well, it will enable these areas of our community to help us achieve City Council's vision to see Regina recognized for its economic, social and environmental sustainability."

The agreement sets out six priorities for action that focus on:

a) Community-based approaches to affordable housing, homelessness and the renewal of inner-city Regina neighbourhoods;

b) Developing cultural and recreational opportunities to enhance quality of life;

c) Supporting environmental protection and climate change solutions;

d) Enhancing Aboriginal participation in Regina's economy;

e) Promoting a positive business climate and enhancing Regina's competitiveness; and

f) Addressing the strategic infrastructure needed to develop Regina physically, socially and economically.

Federal funding for this initiative is included in the fiscal framework. Western Economic Diversification Canada is the federal department responsible for administering this agreement.

Provincial funding for this initiative is provided for in the March 2005 budget. Saskatchewan Government Relations is the provincial department responsible for administering this agreement.

City funding for this initiative will be provided through annual capital or operating budgets to be approved by City Council.

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For More Information, Contact:

Cathy Gourlie Government Relations Regina Phone: (306) 787-2687 Cell: (306) 529-8631

Joanne Mysak Western Economic Diversification Canada Saskatoon Phone: (306) 975-5942