NEW LEGISLATION SUPPORTS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Legislation that will foster sustainable communities was given second reading in the provincial legislature today.

"Saskatchewan communities will benefit from clear, consistent and effective tools for community planning and development," Government Relations Minister Harry Van Mulligen said. "This legislation will foster co-operation and partnerships among municipalities, governments, First Nations and Métis people, entrepreneurs and all citizens to ensure that today's Saskatchewan families benefit from our strong economy."

The Planning and Development Act 2006, enables municipalities to plan for and encourage development in Saskatchewan. The new Act provides a community planning system that promotes economic growth, environmental sustainability, social and cultural development and sustainable communities.

This Act is in response to requests from municipal, business and community stakeholders for legislation that is more responsive to local and emerging land use planning challenges.

"We are pleased that Saskatchewan is bringing in new planning and development legislation that will enable communities and their elected Councils to better plan for future development," Association of Professional Community Planners of Saskatchewan president John Wolfenberg said. "November 8 is Community Planning Day across North America, so it is very fitting that the government is making these legislative changes."

The legislation was developed through stakeholder consultations with agencies and associations, industry sector groups, academic institutions, environmental agencies, the heritage sector, planning districts, the transportation sector, professional associations, First Nations and Métis groups and provincial, federal and municipal governments.

More information on the review and proposed legislation can be found in the "What's New" section of the Government Relations web site at www.municipal.gov.sk.ca/.

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For More Information, Contact:

Tyler McMurchy Government Relations Regina Phone: 306-787-5193