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July 2023
Note: certain email platforms distort the Rural Sheaf (RS) formatting. It is viewed best as a webpage through your internet browser.
View as Webpage
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Convention Accommodations
Be sure to book your hotel stays in advance to take advantage of the hotel blocks that have been set aside for delegates during SARM's annual and midterm conventions. Please note the hotel blocks are limited, so once they have been filled there is no guaranteed space/pricing. SARM has booked blocks at the following hotels in Regina:
- DoubleTree by Hilton (Regina)
- Days Inn Regina East (Regina)
- Home Inn & Suites Regina Airport (Regina)
- The Atlas (Regina)
- The Hotel Saskatchewan (Regina)
Please see the hotel directory for pricing and reservation details.
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Don't forget to update the RM Directory on the SARM website
This will ensure that SARM and the public are kept up to date with current RM council details.
This is where we pull the information for SARM's convention name badges.
To access your RM Directory profile on the SARM website, please log in here and click on the “Manage your RM Directory Listing” link that is located under the Administrator’s Access for Updates heading on the Members Only homepage.
If you require any assistance, please contact coordinator@sarm.ca.
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2023 SARM Midterm Resolution Deadline
The deadline for submitting resolutions for the upcoming 2023 SARM Midterm Convention is Sunday, September 24, 2023, end of day. Resolutions must be received in the SARM office by this date in order to be addressed at the upcoming convention and included in the convention guide. Please email resolutions to resolutions@sarm.ca.
Linked below for your convenience are the Guide for Writing Resolutions and the Resolution Submission Form.
*Please remember that each resolution submission must include a brief (no more than 500 word) background that answers the questions provided in the below resolution submission form.*
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2024 SARM Calendars
NOTE: Desktop and wall calendars will no longer be available
We will continue to provide calendars in the following formats for 2024.
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- Pocket Calendars:
- each RM will receive enough for their council members
- they will be mailed out in November
- RM will be invoice, by SARM, for shipping costs
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If your RM does not want to receive pocket calendars please indicate this through using this link: https://forms.office.com/r/z7QZDWLCXA
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Outlook Calendar: Once the 2024 calendar has been finalized, SARM will distribute a link to download a digital copy that can be imported directly into your Outlook account. Simply click on the SARM provided calendar link and download the file. Once the calendar has been downloaded, click on the file and select “Open as New” or “Import”. This gives you the option to add the file into Outlook as a new separate calendar or integrate the content with your current calendar.
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Rural Sheaf: each month we will outline important dates in the Rural Sheaf electronic newsletter
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DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A SAFETY AWARD? Show your appreciation with a nomination
Each year the Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association (SCSA) acknowledges member companies and individuals throughout Saskatchewan for efforts given to promote the SCSA's mission and vision.
Winners and finalists benefit from peer recognition, professional achievement, and media exposure that they can use to self-promote as leaders in construction safety.
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Corporate Leadership in Safety Award is presented to a member company in recognition of their dedication, outstanding contribution, commitment and leadership to support the SCSA's mission and vision to enhance health and safety in the workplace.
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Safety Leader Award recognizes an individual who is a senior leader in a member company, shows leadership in the industry, involvement in community activities, and dedication to advancing the mission and vision of the SCSA.
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Safety Practitioner Award is presented to an individual who works in the field or office of a member company, recognizing their dedication, contributions, commitment to safety and embodiment of the SCSA's mission and vision to create a healthy and safe workplace.
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Awards Nomination Deadline is September 15, 2023 | |
In Saskatchewan agriculture, there are no guarantees. While you cannot control the weather, market fluctuations or rising input costs, you can manage your risk with AgriStability. | |
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AgriStability
AgriStability is a cost-effective Business Risk Management program designed to help farm operations facing large margin declines caused by production loss, increased costs or market conditions. Coverage is personalized for each farm operation by using historical information, based on income tax and supplementary information.
Deadline to submit AgriStability - Program Forms (without penalty): Saturday, September 30, 2023
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Rural Municipal Administrator Scholarship - Apply by October 15
Because SARM understands the vital role administrators play in municipal governance in rural Saskatchewan, we developed the SARM Rural Municipal Administration Scholarship Program to help support administrators.
The scholarship is for students enrolled in the Local Government Authority (LGA) Certificate Program at the University of Regina. Three scholarships of $1,000 each will be awarded annually, paid at the end of the completed semester.
Application deadline is October 15th each year and must be supported by confirmation of enrollment during the current year.
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The Ministry of Environment is seeking input and suggestions on improving The Environmental Management and Protection Act, 2010 (the Act)
The Act is the overarching legislation that protects the province's air, land and water resources by regulating and controlling potentially harmful activities and substances. The Act enables the Government of Saskatchewan’s use of results-based regulation by adopting the Saskatchewan Environmental Code.
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The ministry is seeking to achieve an Act:
- with enhanced enforceability by supporting effective compliance and enforcement activities within an effective legislative framework;
- that is consistent with existing provincial legislation;
- that is harmonized, where appropriate, with other provinces’ and federal legislation;
- that continues to support the management and protection of Saskatchewan's air, land and water and balances growth with sustainable development; and
- that continues to reflect contemporary values and facilitates the results-based regulatory approach.
The review will take place over two years and includes stakeholder and Indigenous engagement, committee hearings and legislative assembly debate.
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Consultation on The Provincial Highway Sign Control Regulations
The Ministry of Highways is conducting a review of The Provincial Highway Sign Control Regulations. The Ministry of Highways is looking to obtain feedback on the regulations, proposed amendments, any other suggested changes for the regulations.
Click here to view the letter providing more information on the review and a link to the consultation survey being conducted as part of the Ministry of Highways’ review.
Closing Date: August 31, 2023
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Saskatchewan Rabies Response Program | |
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The Rabies Response Program was created to protect both humans and animals from the spread of rabies. The first line of defensive is vaccination.
If an animal is suspected of having rabies, your veterinarian will collect samples and submit them for testing under direction from the program's Rabies Risk Assessment Veterinarian (RRAV). Test results will be reported back to the submitting veterinarian and to the RRAV. If there is a positive result, the RRAV will also coordinate any response and follow-up activities.
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SARM Interactive Online Calendar - August | |
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Deadlines:
August 1:
- Deadline for auditor to send verification notices to people indebted to the RM
August 10:
- Deadline to remit and return monthly EPT funds
- Deadline to remit taxes to SMHI, C&D and regional parks
August 15:
- Deadline to prepare tax roll
- Deadline to submit the mill rate return to Government Relations
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Deadline for CRA source deductions remittance
- Deadline for MEPP remittance
August 31:
- Deadline to send tax notices
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Meetings:
- Committee Meeting: August 3
- Committee Meeting: August 15
- Board Meeting: August 16-17
Special Days:
- Saskatchewan Day: August 7
View the SARM Interactive Online Calendar to access the full year on the SARM website. This version is updated regularly as new dates of interest and deadlines are identified and should be viewed as the most current.
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Free 60-minute “Safe Trailering” comprehensive online course covers the basics of backing, towing, hauling.
Saskatchewan residents seeking valuable instruction on safe driving while towing a trailer will now have unencumbered access to a brand new and completely free training course developed by knowledgeable and experienced subject matter experts.
Utilizing closed course demonstrations, multiple detailed camera angles, and digital graphic visualizations, this program covers topics such as:
- Selecting the right trailer
- Load distribution
- Weight requirements
- Completing walk-around inspections
- Learning various types of hitch receivers and electrical adaptors
- General best practices when pulling a trailer and maneuvering around roadways.
Whether new to towing a small utility trailer with supplies for a landscaping project, or navigating a Cabela’s or Walmart parking lot with a new “home on wheels”, everyone can find key takeaways in the Council’s free Safe Trailering program.
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For those requiring driver or operator evaluations, the Council also offers fee-for-service in-vehicle assessments to provide feedback and document competency.
Paid group or individual training is also available both in person or as a webinar after which optional driver assessments can be performed.
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The Municipal Leadership Development Program (MLDP)
This is a series of modules developed exclusively for elected and appointed municipal leaders in Saskatchewan. Mayors, reeves, councillors and municipal staff are able to benefit from this program that is designed to strengthen local government leadership.
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Module(s) open for registration:
Community and Land Use Planning - this online module covers a variety of topics including: the roles and responsibilities of council, administration and the public; the creation, adoption, and amendment process for Official Community Plans and Zoning Bylaws; the subdivision process; servicing agreements; the development permit process; the development appeal board process; enforcing bylaws; the building permit process as well as regional planning.
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SARM is pleased to be partnering with the Public Service Network on their Local Government Roadshow coming to Regina on November 16. This half-day event will bring together municipal and local government leaders from across Saskatchewan to embrace connection and resilience for a future-proof local government. | | |
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Housing Accelerator Fund
The Housing Accelerator Fund – launching in summer 2023 – provides incentive funding to local governments to boost housing supply across Canada.
The Housing Accelerator Fund provides incentive funding to local governments encouraging initiatives aimed at increasing housing supply. It also supports the development of complete, low-carbon and climate-resilient communities that are affordable, inclusive, equitable and diverse.
Eligibility Highlights
- Local governments in Canada with delegated authority over land use planning and development approvals, including First Nations, Métis and Inuit governments, can apply.
- Regional districts, provinces or territories are eligible to apply if there isn’t a municipal-level authority.
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IMPORTANT! Start your action plan today to be ready to apply in summer 2023
The Housing Accelerator Fund is opening for applications soon.
There is a short application window once the client portal opens for application intake.
You are encouraged to start your action plan now.
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Hybrid Event: Towards Victory in Organics Recycling! For Healthier Soil, Healthier Food & Climate Protection. Organics recycling is a vital strategy to combat climate change and improve our well-being.
Dates: September 27-29, 2023
Location: Montreal, QC, or online
Through the diversion of food scraps, yard trimmings and other organic materials from landfills and into organics recycling programs, we reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enrich the soil, protect biodiversity and conserve water.
And yet, Canada still has a lot of room for improvement, currently missing immediate opportunities to fight battles more effectively for healthier soils and a calmer climate.
Whether you are a business leader, community steward or organics recycling champion, enlist in our conference. This conference will be digging deep into the latest advances which are achieving victories in waste diversion, local environmental stewardship, energy recovery, climate change mitigation, water conservation, soil productivity and health.
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Protecting Saskatchewan Forests
from Dutch Elm Disease
Dutch Elm Disease (DED) puts Saskatchewan's urban and rural forests at risk, especially in the eastern half of the province. Slowing the spread of DED is a critical part of forest health.
Remember: It's illegal to use, transport, store, or buy elm firewood. Do not prune elms between April 1 to August 31.
If you suspect a tree may have DED, or for more information, contact the Ministry of Environment's Inquiry Centre at 1-800-567-4224 or centre.inquiry@gov.sk.ca.
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Help Stop the Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species
Remember to stop at all provincial watercraft inspection stations to help prevent the introduction of aquatic invasive species (AIS) into Saskatchewan waters. While travelling across provincial and international borders, look for inspection stations along highways and near bodies of water.
Watercraft inspection is mandatory in Saskatchewan - even if you are just passing through. We work with neighbouring provinces, states and the Canada Border Services Agency to coordinate inspection efforts. So far, Saskatchewan has been successful in preventing the introduction and establishment of AIS.
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The following RM’s have requested the information below to be distributed and will be billed for using this service. |
Looking to Hire:
RM of Reford No. 379, Rural Municipal Administrator, AUG 18 - Close
RM of Blaine Lake No. 434, Seasonal Grader Operator, AUG 18 - Close
RM of Coalfields No. 4, Chief Administrative Officer, AUG 14 - Close
RM of Preeceville No. 334, Grader Operator, AUG 11 - Close
RM of Stanley No. 215, Administrator, AUG 10 - Close
RM of Walpole No. 92, Operator, AUG 8 - Close
RM of Walpole No. 92, Seasonal Employee, AUG 8 - Close
RM of Moose Jaw No. 161, District Weed Inspector, AUG 8 - Close
Northern Village of Air Ronge, Chief Administrative Officer, AUG 8 - Close
RM of Dufferin No. 190, Grader Operator Positions, AUG 8 - Close
RM of King George No. 256, Administrator, AUG 7 - Close
RM of Ituna Bon Accord No. 246, Administrator, AUG 4 - Close
RM of Vanscoy No. 345, Office Clerk, JUL 31 - Close
Looking to Buy/Sell:
RM of Wilner No. 253, For Sale: 2007 Peterbilt 378, AUG 19 - Close
RM of Whiska Creek No. 106, For Sale: 2010 140MVHP Motor Grader, AUG 19 - Close
RM of Antler No. 61, For Tender: 1998 Triple S Ridge Mulcher, AUG 4 - Close
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If you have questions or would like to post in the SARM Classifieds contact: (306) 757-3577 or sarm@sarm.ca
Please send your advertisement in a Word Document.
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Zach James Media received the successful award as the SARM Member Purchasing Gravel Pit Measuring approved supplier. | |
The new contract offers SARM’s members exceptional pricing,
accurate measurements, and efficient processing services.
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SARM Webinars
SARM offers webinars for members. Not only can you participate in these live, but you can also have them as a resource to view again when it’s convenient. Past topics have included:
- Fire Bans and Emergency Preparedness
- Municipal Safety Manual
- Civic Addressing
- Municipal Leaders' Roles and Responsibilities
- Tendering and Procurement Best Practices
- Mental Wellness in Agriculture – Fostering Resiliency
- Nuclear Power in Saskatchewan
- Principles for Positive Employment Relations
- And more
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10 Things Your Administrator Wishes You Knew | |
Watch this humorous and informative session, which took place on July 27, with Matthewson & Co. to gain a better understanding of the responsibilities of municipal council and administration. | | | |
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Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) Addresses Drought Crisis
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SARM’s Indigenous Relations Committee meeting with Kallie Wood, the Saskatchewan's Ministry of Agriculture's Senior Indigenous Advisor, discussing the importance of strong relationships between rural municipalities and Indigenous peoples in our province. | | |
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Regarding the potential strike at the Port of Vancouver.
Producers shipping grain, fertilizer, and other commodities can’t afford unreliable service anywhere along the supply chain; it risks consumer confidence, something Canada’s economy can’t afford to lose.
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On June 29, SARM and Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers hosted a webinar to learn more about the Crime Stoppers program and how it has become one of the most effective and successful examples of community-based policing. | | | | |
