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Minister Schmalz Talks Budget 2026




It’s a budget that the Government of Saskatchewan says is about protecting communities—while still planning for growth.


Today we are taking a closer look at Budget 2026–27, which commits more than 700 million dollars in direct provincial support to municipalities across the province. That’s an increase of nearly 47 million dollars over last year—about seven percent—and it comes as communities continue to balance rising costs, infrastructure demands, and public safety concerns.


At the centre of this plan is a record-setting municipal revenue sharing total of 392 million dollars—now more than triple what it was less than two decades ago. Urban, rural, and northern municipalities are all seeing increases, as the province ties its funding model to economic growth.


But beyond the headline numbers, the question for many local leaders is how far this funding will go. Nearly 240 million dollars is being directed toward infrastructure programs—from roads to housing-related projects—while rural transportation networks are also seeing a modest boost.


Public safety is another major focus. Police grants are increasing by 8.6 million dollars, supporting new officers, community safety initiatives, and the expansion of programs like SCAN. New hospital public safety teams are also being introduced in major centres, including Regina, Saskatoon, and Prince Albert.


And while spending is going up, the province says affordability remains a priority—holding the line on education property tax rates for another year.


So what does this budget mean for municipalities on the ground? Are these investments enough to keep pace with growth—and with the pressures facing local governments today?


Joining us tonight is Eric Schmalz, Saskatchewan’s Minister of Government Relations, to break down the numbers and the priorities behind them.


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This episode of Municipal Affairs was sponsored by: Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy


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