GOVERNMENT INVESTS FOR STRONG AND VIBRANT COMMUNITIES

The 2003-04 Budget will inject more than $10 million in new funding to support the government's vision of strong and vibrant Saskatchewan communities as part of a total $115 million commitment.

"Our strong economy enables us to assist in renewing water and sewer systems, repairing roads, and improving urban parks," Government Relations Minister Ron Osika said. "This $115 million is an investment that supports strong, safe and healthy communities that are prepared for future growth."

Saskatchewan urban, rural and northern municipalities will receive a $10 million increase in revenue sharing this fiscal year, and an additional $10 million in 2004-05. This increased funding will help municipalities meet their operating and capital needs, and in limiting property tax increases. The means of allocating the incremental $10 million for municipalities in 2004-05 will be subject to consultation with municipal organizations. The increased support over the next two years is in addition to the $10 million increase provided to the municipal sector last year. In total, municipalities will have received an additional $60 million in revenue sharing between 2002-05.

In addition, urban parks in Regina, Saskatoon, Moose Jaw and Swift Current will each receive a 10 per cent increase in funding this fiscal year.

This new funding, combined with existing provincial programs, will result in a $115 million investment in Saskatchewan communities this year. Additional highlights include:

- $75 million in revenue sharing to Saskatchewan municipalities;

- $12.8 million in grants-in-lieu of taxes to local governments where the Saskatchewan Property Management Corporation owns and manages properties;

- $10 million for the Canada-Saskatchewan Infrastructure Program for year three of a five-year (2001-2006) program, cost-shared by the federal, provincial and municipal governments;

- $2.38 million in subsidies for transit assistance for the disabled, and $1 million in funding to add 17 new vehicles for people with disabilities to the provincial fleet; and

- $5.82 million to the Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency.

In addition, there is funding to hire 10 additional police officers to support integrated, targeted, community-based, approaches to reduce crime.

"This brings us to a total of 142 officers hired since our government made the 1999 commitment to hire more police officers across Saskatchewan," Justice Minister Eric Cline said.

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For More Information, Contact:

Anna Arneson Government Relations and Aboriginal Affairs Regina Phone: (306)787-8008	Ken Lozinsky Parks and Special Places Branch Regina Phone: (306)787-2854
Debi McEwen Justice Regina Phone: (306)787-6043