A significant step toward strengthening relationships between municipalities and First Nations communities took place in Saskatoon this month. The Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association, known as SUMA, and the Office of the Treaty Commissioner have formalized a new partnership through the signing of a memorandum of understanding. The agreement was signed following a traditional Pipe Ceremony at the Office of the Treaty Commissioner, with Treaty Commissioner Dr. Kathy W

Strychnine — a name that carries a long legacy across the Prairies. For decades, it was the go-to pesticide for gopher control in Alberta. That is, until the federal government began phasing out its use on Richardson’s ground squirrels back in 2020 — and then banned it outright in 2024. The small animal at the centre of it all — the Richardson’s ground squirrel, known more commonly as the gopher — has been described as “a destructive force across the prairie provinces, threat

A three-way race is taking shape to determine the next president of Alberta Municipalities, following last month’s municipal elections. The organization is seeking a new full-time president after incumbent Tyler Gandam, Mayor of Wetaskiwin, was defeated in his bid for re-election. Three candidates have put their names forward to lead the provincial municipal association: Penhold Mayor Mike Yargeau, Grande Prairie Councillor Dylan Bressey, and Calgary Communities First Party C

In the Town of Canmore, Alberta, a new council term is underway — bringing together a mix of fresh faces and returning members around the table. On October 20th, residents headed to the polls, electing a blend of new councillors and familiar voices — all ready to help shape Canmore’s future. Among them is Councillor Wade Graham, re-elected by the citizens of Canmore to continue serving on Council. He now joins his colleagues and the Mayor in leading the town forward. We sat d

In the Municipal District of Taber, Alberta, a new term is beginning — and at the head of the table sits a familiar face. On October 20th, residents went to the polls, casting their votes for a mix of new councillors and returning voices — each ready to shape the MD’s next chapter. Just a week later, at the first meeting of the new council, members turned once again to a trusted leader. Tamara Miyanaga has been selected by her peers to continue as Reeve — guiding the MD of Ta

Welcome to the Political Trenches Local Government At Work. Brenda Ottenbreit is a seasoned municipal administrator within the province of Saskatchewan. working closely with many municipalities, big and small, both urban and rural across the province of Saskatchewan. Brenda, welcome to the show. *********************************** Subscribe to Show: Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3GISqEX   Spotify Podcast: podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thepoliticaltrenches   Youtube:...