AMENDMENTS INTRODUCED TO THE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT ACT

Today, the Government of Saskatchewan introduced amendments to The Planning and Development Act, 2007, designed to give the Minister of Government Relations the ability to create regional planning authorities to ensure continued economic growth within the province.

“There are great examples of voluntary regional planning all around Saskatchewan,” Government Relations Minister Jim Reiter said.  “But we also know that at times there are differences of opinion when it comes to regional development, and this can be challenging.   This government is taking action to ensure local disagreements do note impede the economic growth of the province.”

The amendments will provide government with tools to encourage greater regional planning and would give the Minister of Government Relations the authority to compel:

• Cities and surrounding rural municipalities to establish and participate in regional planning authorities (RPA).  Specify their powers, duties, procedures and composition to include both municipal and provincial government representatives. 
• RPAs to undertake studies and analysis; prepare land use and other development and infrastructure related plans and reports; draft service agreements and bylaw amendments.
• Municipal councils to adopt plans and bylaws prepared by RPAs.

“I am confident that in situations where it is clear that neighbouring municipalities are no longer working together, where communication has broken down, these amendments will give the Government of Saskatchewan the tools to work collaboratively and assist municipalities to overcome obstacles and keep Saskatchewan and our communities moving forward,” Reiter said.

To view The Planning and Development Act, 2007 please visit, http://www.qp.gov.sk.ca/documents/English/Statutes/Statutes/P13-2.pdf.

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For more information, contact:

Jay Teneycke
Government Relations
Regina
Phone: 306-798-6095
Email: jay.teneycke@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-529-8630