MuniCast

Libraries have long been pillars of knowledge, community,and accessibility, but as the world shifts toward digital media and instant information, their role is evolving. In this episode, Reimagining Libraries, Director of Advocacy Sean McKenzie sits down with Jason Barnhardt and Malcolm Eaton from Praxis Consulting, along with Jeff Barber from the Regina Public Library, to explore the enduring value of libraries in today's society, both in larger cities and smaller communities.Both Jason and Malcolm were key players in a study SUMArecently hired Praxis Consulting to conduct into the provincial library system, and to make recommendations on what could be improved. Jeff has been the Library Director and CEO of the Regina Public Library since 2005 and has also worked within the Southeast regional library in Weyburn, been head of Access Services in the University of Saskatchewan, and is a past president of the Saskatchewan Library Association, as well as past Chair of the Canadian Urban Libraries Council.From ebooks to streaming services, technology has reshapedhow we access information, yet libraries continue to offer something irreplaceable. However, they are not without challenges. Funding remains an ongoing concern, and the demands on these institutions are increasing. What needs to change to ensure their future? This episode examines the essential services they provide, the unique structure of Saskatchewan's one-card system, and how regional collaboration ensures that resources remain available to as many people as possible. This discussion dives the pressing issues and possible solutions that could shape the next chapter of library services.

Saskatchewan communities are facing significant challenges in healthcare access, affecting the quality and availability of care for residents. Key findings from recent research reveals gaps in service delivery outside larger urban centers including limited resources, staffing shortages, and geographic barriers. Mental health services face similar struggles, with individuals encountering difficulties in accessing support due to systemic barriers and regional disparities. Tackling these issues requires innovative solutions to improve healthcare access and ensure equitable support for all residents.In this episode, Accessing Health Services in Saskatchewan with the University of Regina and the Canadian Mental Health Association, Advocacy Advisor, Kerri Martin, sits down with Dr. Nuelle Novik, Associate Professor in the Faculty of Social Work at the University of Regina, and a researcher with the Saskatchewan Population Health and Evaluation Research Unit (SPHERU), and Rebecca Rackow, Assistant Executive Director and Dave Nelson, Senior Program Consultant, with the Canadian Mental Health Association, to discuss the challenges faced by residents in small and remote communities when accessing healthcare services. To learn more about the state of healthcare in Saskatchewan access the Saskatchewan Population Health and Evaluation Research Unit's report on The Current State of Health Care in Rural Saskatchewan here.To learn more about the state of mental health in Saskatchewan in comparison to other provinces across the country access the Canadian Mental Health Association's recent report The State of Mental Health in Canada here.

Saskatchewan's urban municipalities are dealing with evolving environmental regulations, which makes collaborative waste management essential for a long-term sustainability. Effective waste management reduces greenhouse gas emissions, extends landfill lifespan, and helps municipalities remain environmentally responsible. By working together, communities can share costs, access funding, and implement innovative waste diversion strategies.In this episode, Collaborative Waste Management with the Ministry of Environment, SWRC, ARWMAS, and TSS, Advocacy Advisor Augustina Osaseri sits down to discuss opportunities for effective waste management in Saskatchewan withMichelle Heggstrom, Manager of Compliance Assurance for the North Central Region with the Ministry of Environment, Government of Saskatchewan,Pamela Barry, Senior Policy Analyst and Research Officer for Waste Stewardship and Recycling with the Ministry of Environment, Government of Saskatchewan,Joanne Fedyk, Executive Director of the Saskatchewan Waste Reduction Council,Anne Mathewson, Executive Director of the Association of Regional Waste Management Authorities of Saskatchewan, and;Richard Beck, TSS Coordinator with SUMA.

From dangerous animals to noise and debris and many areasin between, bylaws are municipal regulations that cover areas not enforced by provincial and federal law. However, despite their importance in keeping a community safe, enforcement of bylaws is a challenge faced by many of Saskatchewan's urban municipalities. In this episode, Bylaw Enforcement for Public Safety with the City of Yorkton and the Town of Allan, Advocacy and Communications Advisor Cheyenne Geysen sits down with Jordan Hafichuk, Mayor of the Town and Allan, and Nicole Baptist, Bylaw & Safety Supervisor with the City of Yorkton, to unpack some of those challenges and look at the perspective of bylaw enforcement seen by their communities.

The Government of Saskatchewan announced the creation of the Saskatchewan Marshals Service in 2024. After a comprehensive search and hiring process, Robert Cameron was appointed as the Chief Marshal of the Saskatchewan Marshals Service effective January 1, 2024.Public safety, and policing in particular, are extremely important topics for SUMA members. In this episode, Behind the Badge with Chief Marshal Robert Cameron, learn more about what this new service will mean for SUMA members, the reason for creating the Marshals Service, and how they will work with other established policing services including the RCMP and municipal police services. During the episode Chief Cameron refers to the "James Smith" incident. More information about the tragedy can be found here: https://www.publicsafety.gc.ca/cnt/trnsprnc/brfng-mtrls/prlmntry-bndrs/20241001/12-en.aspx

In Season 8 of MuniCast we are taking a deep dive intoSUMA's Advocacy Initiatives.Diversity and inclusion are the cornerstones of thriving communities and a sustainable economy. Diversity brings unique experiences and innovation, while inclusion ensures everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. Theseprinciples are essential for municipal growth, addressing labor shortages, strengthening social connections, and retention.In this episode, Diversity and Inclusion in EconomicDevelopment, Verona Thibault, CEO of the Saskatchewan Economic Development Alliance (SEDA), Lovely Magnaye, CAO for the Town of Tisdale, Jean Goerzen, Executive Director for the Saskatchewan Association of Immigrant Settlement and Integration Agencies (SAISIA), and Ronke Edoho, owner of 9jaFoodie, sit down with Augustina Osaseri, Advocacy Advisor with SUMA, to discuss the ways that embracing diversity can strengthen community economic development. Events and resources mentioned in the episode:Rural Sask hosted by Conseil économique et coopératif de laSaskatchewan (CÉCS): https://cecs-sk.ca/en/areas-of-interest/employability-immigration/ruralskTaking place March 14, 2025. Occurs annually.Intercultural Competence Training from the Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan (MCoS): https://mcos.ca/programs/education/Want to continue the discussion?Speakers from this episode invite listeners to follow up with them directly.Verona Thibault, CEO, SEDA: Verona.thibault@seda.ca Jean Goerzen, Executive Director, SAISIA: jean.goerzen@saisia.ca Lovely Magnaye, CAO, Town of Tisdale: cao@tisdale.ca Ronke Edoho, Owner, 9jaFoodie: ronke@9jafoodie.com Augustina Osaseri, Advocacy Advisor, SUMA: advocacy1@suma.org

Get to know Convention 2025 MC Trevor Moore before we gather in Saskatoon in April!Trevor is a neurodivergent husband, father and entrepreneur who lives life as a mental health advocate, chronic pain warrior, kindness crusader, and over-thinker in recovery. As a professional emcee, host, speaker, and corporate standup comedy magician with 17 years of experience at the microphone, Trevor understands how to steer the rhythm, focus, and feel of any event. His intimate and interactive style, engaging attitude and refreshing, upbeat persona is sure to entertain guests at this year's Convention. In this episode, Eventful Conversations with Trevor Moose, discover what audience members can expect as he guides us through Convention 2025. Learn more about Trevor, how he will incorporate his vast hosting and speaking experience, and his hopes for attendees to walk away inspired

Want to get to know keynote speaker Pamela Barnum before Convention 2025? Tune in to this bonus episode of MuniCast! After a successful 20-year career in the criminal justice system, Pamela Barnum transitioned to the corporate world with a focus on negotiations. During her time undercover in the Drug Enforcement Section, she honed her skills in building trust and detecting deception—often with some of the most dangerous individuals imaginable. Now, she's leveraging her real-world experience to teach others how to interpret body language and detect deception in both personal and professional settings. In this episode, discover what audience members can expect from her keynote presentation at Convention 2025. Learn about the crucial role of non-verbal communication for municipal leaders, how to apply Pamela's insights across various areas, and more.

Doug Griffiths is a wildly popular community strategist and author of two best selling editions of his book "13 Ways to Kill Your Community”. He has supported, guided and inspired hundreds of communities to create effective change. Doug grew up on a ranch outside a small town where he learned the value of hard work, critical thinking skills, and the value of community. That background led him into politics, which gave him a deep understanding about how to move people and to get things done. He deliberately retired from politics in January 2015, after serving for 13 years, to return to his passion for community building.  In this episode, Revitalizing Your Community with Doug Griffiths, hear what audience members can expect to take away from his keynote presentation at the Virtual SUMA Summit, his experiences as a former elected official, the inspiration for his best-selling book, "13 Ways to Kill Your Community", and more.

The Saskatchewan Municipal Peer Network is available to assist municipal leaders as they face diverse challenges in their role as an elected official or administrator. The Municipal Peer Network connects municipal officials and administrators with highly experienced mentors who can provide advice and suggest options to help resolve disputes. Mentors are veteran municipal administrators and elected officials who offer guidance and support from their own experiences to help resolve issues at a local level. There is no cost to the service and conversations between a mentor and peer are confidential. In episode five Municipal Networking with the Municipal Peer Network we have a conversation with former Peer Network Chair Michelle Buechler and current Peer Network Mentor, Michelle McKenzie about how the program started, how mentors are selected, and the benefits of contacting a mentor. Saskatchewan's Municipal Peer Network is a partnership between the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM), Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA), Rural Municipalities Association of Administrators (RMAA), Urban Municipal Administrators Association of Saskatchewan (UMAAS), and the Government of Saskatchewan.

The Municipal Leadership Development Program (MLDP) was carefully designed to address the unique needs of municipal officials. This series of modules was exclusively developed for elected and appointed officials in Saskatchewan, including mayors, reeves, councillors, and municipal staff. The program aims to enhance leadership skills and strengthen local government leadership. In this conversation, learn about the modules included in this program, the different ways modules are delivered, and the valuable benefits they offer to both elected officials and municipal employees. The MLDP is a joint partnership of SUMA, SARM, New North, RMAA, UMAAS, and the Ministry of Government Relations. The program seeks continuous feedback through the municipal associations regarding the education and training needs of municipalities.

In episode 3, Local Government Administration with the University of Regina, we discuss the Local Government Administration certificate program offered by the University of Regina, Centre for Continuing Education. In this conversation with Dr. Christie Schultz and Robin Markel, we discuss what this program covers, how it can be accessed, course pricing, and more. The Certificate and the Advanced Certificate satisfy requirements for local government administrator certification through the Rural Municipalities Administrators' Association (RMAA) and the Urban Municipal Administrators Association of Saskatchewan (UMAAS).

In season 7 of MuniCast we are discussing the educational opportunities available to municipal administration and elected officials in Saskatchewan. In episode two Municipal Administration Specialty with Saskatchewan Polytechnic we discuss the new municipal administration specialty for the Business diploma program with Saskatchewan Polytechnic's School of Business. Graduates with the new specialty will be trained to successfully manage the day-to-day operations of a municipality as a municipal administrator, clerk or city manager. In this conversation learn more about the program, and which courses may be valuable to elected officials. This specialty has been developed in partnership with SUMA, SARM, UMAAS, CAMA, and the Saskatchewan Ministry of Government Relations.

In season 7 of MuniCast we are discussing the educational opportunities available to municipal administration and elected officials in Saskatchewan. In episode one Municipal Management with Southeast College we discuss the Municipal Management Microcredential offered by Southeast College. The Microcredential an accessible opportunity available to participants across the province to increase their knowledge of municipal management. Partnerships with SARM, SUMA and Municipal Hail Insurance continue to support training opportunities at Southeast College that challenge and build on participants' core business, leadership, and management skills.

In episode six we speak with long-time MuniCast sponsor, SaskTel, about their 2020-25 plan to expand broadband services to small and remote communities in Saskatchewan. Expanding Broadband Access with SaskTel features a conversation with Greg Jacobs, External Communications Manager with SaskTel about this initiative, the work that has been done to date, the value of this initiative to citizens of these small urban communities, and SaskTel's plans to continue expanding broadband access throughout the province.

Episode five, Serving Members: Membership, Funding, and Supplies, features a conversation about the value of membership, ordering election supplies, connecting members to legal support, and more information on the funding opportunity available through the Targeted Sector Support initiative. The work done in corporate services is often done behind the scenes, but their work does a lot to support SUMA members. Led by Jean-Marc Nadeau, CEO of SUMA, learn more about the behind the scenes work that SUMA engages in behind the scenes to support members.

Episode four, Practical Partnerships with SUMAssure, GBI, and Kinetic GPO, features a conversation with leaders from services the SUMA members have access to. In this conversation with Tania Wendling, CEO of SUMAssure, Scott Meger, Manager of Group Benefits Insurance (GBI) Amanda Reid, Administrator for GBI, and Sandra Lisi, National Director Business Development, Canada with Kinetic GPO, led by Jean-Marc Nadeau, CEO of SUMA, learn more about the role of each of these organizations, the benefits they can provide to members and affiliate members, and how you can get involved. SUMAssure is the insurance and risk solutions provider of choice for two hundred and forty six Saskatchewan communities, learn more about SUMAssure here: sumassure.ca SUMA's Group Benefits Insurance (GBI) program offers a full line of benefits for full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees along with elected officials of SUMA member municipalities and organizations affiliated with member municipalities, learn more about GBI here: suma.org/programs-and-services/benefits-and-insurance Kinetic GPO helps municipalities save time and money in their procurement efforts, learn more about Kinetic GPO here: kineticgpo.ca

This episode of MuniCast features a conversation with SUMA's Advocacy team about the committees they work with, and updates on advocacy efforts and successes. In this conversation Augustina, Cheyenne, Kerri, Mason, and Sean discuss the purpose of SUMA's advocacy, what their committee's are currently focused on, and how they can help support SUMA members. Listen in to this discussion, lead by SUMA CEO Jean-Marc Nadeau, to meet the team and get an inside look at how SUMA advocates for Saskatchewan's urban municipalities.

In this episode of MuniCast, join members of SUMA's events and communications teams as they discuss the opportunities that SUMA offers to connect with us, participate in education, have member excellence recognized, and more. In this conversation with Katee, Catherine, Steph, Cheyenne, and Tanisha, we cover everything from the annual Convention and Tradeshow to our bi-weekly newsletter. Listen in to this discussion, lead by SUMA CEO Jean-Marc Nadeau, to meet the team and get an inside look at how SUMA works to connect with Saskatchewan's urban municipalities.

In season 6 of MuniCast we are sitting down with the SUMA staff to discover "Who is SUMA?" In episode 1 of season 6 we chat with SUMA's CEO, Jean-Marc Nadeau, about the strategies and methodologies employed to support urban municipal leaders and administrations across Saskatchewan through the work done at SUMA. In this episode, we explore key considerations for guiding SUMA's direction such as partnerships with municipal organizations across the country working with the board of directors, and engaging with Saskatchewan's urban municipalities. Jean-Marc discusses ways SUMA gathers feedback from members and translating that into actionable initiatives, including involvement with educational programs such as the Municipal Administration Specialization with Saskatchewan Polytechnic. In this insightful discussion, gain a broader understanding of SUMA's role aiming to empower urban municipalities.

In this bonus episode of MuniCast we speak with Cody Demerais, the MC for the upcoming 2024 SUMA Convention and Tradeshow in Regina. Cody Demerais is an award-winning Métis author, speaker, life coach, and entrepreneur. Cody is a successful leader who was born and raised in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan and now delivers inspirational and motivational talks on his past so others don't have to learn the hard way as he did. During Cody's keynote presentation at Convention 2023, he shared his impactful story of struggle and resilience through intense substance abuse issues, as well as issues with anger and depression that led to a life-altering car crash. SUMA looks forward to welcoming him back as the Convention 2024 MC. In this episode we discuss what inspired Cody to say "yes" to the role of the 2024 Convention MC, how his outlook on life, and experiences as a motivational speaker, workshop facilitator, entrepreneur, and life coach will support him in this role.

In this bonus episode of MuniCast we speak with David Coletto, the keynote speaker for the upcoming 2024 SUMA Convention and Tradeshow in Regina. David Coletto is the Chair, CEO and founder of Abacus Data, a full-service market research and strategy firm based in Ottawa and Toronto. David and his partners founded Abacus 13 years ago and since then it has grown into one of Canada's most respected market research firms. In this episode learn how David's experiences in his professional career exploring and measuring public opinion and work with organizations such as the Federation of Canadian Municipalities will guide his keynote, and how his message can bring value to Saskatchewan's municipalities. David discusses how public opinion, politics, public policy, and consumer behaviour intersect, and how we can bridge the growing political divide and promote more constructive dialogue between individuals with differing political views.

In Episode 6 we speak with Cadmus Delorme and Thomas Benjoe of OneHoop about economic reconciliation, building relationships, and engaging with indigenous owned businesses. OneHoop is a groundbreaking consulting firm that proudly embraces its Indigenous heritage. OneHoop aims to advance Canadians' understanding of economic reconciliation and support meaningful relationship-building between the corporate sector, governments and the Indigenous community. Founded by Cadmus Delorme, former Chief of Cowessess First Nation, OneHoop's unique perspective guides their approach to the firm's three core pillars: Indigenous consulting Management consulting and; Government relations.  Their experts have been instrumental in the development of recognized Indigenous engagement strategies and frameworks, Indigenous procurement policies, and diversity, equity and inclusion practices. In tandem with Indigenous consulting, they offer conventional management consulting, business development, and government relations services. Learn more about OneHoop here.

In Season 5 of MuniCast we are discussing how truth and reconciliation relates to municipalities. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada has outlined 94 Calls to Action, with a portion of those calls directed toward government, some to all levels of government, including municipalities. In Episode 5 we speak with Sandra Bender from the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) about the importance of understanding the truth in truth and reconciliation, how municipalities can continue to deepen their reconciliation practices and continue to address call to action #57. The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation or NCTR is a place of learning and dialogue where the truths of Residential School Survivors, families and communities are honoured and kept safe for future generations. The NCTR educates Canadians on the profound injustices inflicted on First Nations, Inuit and the Métis Nation by the forced removal of children to attend residential schools and the widespread abuse suffered in those schools. They preserve the record of these human rights abuses, and promote continued research and learning on the legacy of residential schools. Their goal is to honour Survivors and to foster reconciliation and healing on the foundation of truth telling. Resources discussed: City of Toronto Reconciliation Action Plan na-mi-quai-ni-mak Community Support Fund Education Resources - NCTR National Advisory Committee on Residential Schools Missing Children and Unmarked Burials Resources for Indigenous Communities Considering Investigating Unmarked Graves My ReconciliACTION plan for public servants Indigenous Cultural Safety Collaborative Learning Series

In Episode 4 SUMA's Northern Regional Director and Councillor for the Northern Village of Île-à-la-Crosse, Gerald Roy, joins us for a conversation on Reconciliation and Governance. We discuss the value of engaging with first nations communities, economic growth in the north, and the value of municipalities engaging in acts of reconciliation. Gerald was born and raised in the historic Métis community of Île-à-la-Crosse and is a lifelong resident of Saskatchewan's North. He graduated from Rossignol High School and convocated from the School of Human Justice at the University of Regina. Gerald is an Indigenous Business Development Specialist with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Trade and Export Development. He is an outdoor enthusiast and enjoys boating, angling, ice fishing, snowmobiling and hunting. He is serving in his fifth term as councillor with the Northern Village of Île-à-la-Crosse. 

In season 5 of MuniCast we are discussing how truth and reconciliation relates to municipalities. In this episode we are joined by Kevin Harris, Account Executive - Indigenous Business Market with SaskTel to learn about how SaskTel is connecting communities throughout Saskatchewan, and the value of partnering with Indigenous led organizations. Kevin is a settler in the Treaty 4 area where he and his family live, learn and work and has been employed with SaskTel for the past 42 years, much of that time as an Account Executive in the Financial Services Sector, and for the last 8 years as an Account Executive with the Indigenous Business Development Team. Kevin's journey into understanding Truth and Reconciliation began about 24 years ago when as a family they became foster parents. Kevin and Lori-Lee are very proud parents of two Indigenous children who are now adults and are active in connecting and celebrating with them their culture, ceremonies and communities. The work that Kevin does with the Indigenous communities and the personal life they lead are interconnected and intersect regularly. Kevin values the relationships he has with Indigenous leaders and knowledge keepers, and is on a constant journey to continue learning how to be a good ally for Indigenous views and practices. Learn more about SaskTel's indigenous engagement here: https://www.sasktel.com/about-us/Community/Indigenous+Engagement

In season 5 of MuniCast we are discussing how truth and reconciliation relates to municipalities. In this conversation Rhett Sangster and Shaid Heimbecker from the Office of the Treaty Commissioner discuss the progress of reconciliation in Saskatchewan, resources that municipalities can access to start, or enhance, their reconciliation work, and the reconciliation journeys that have already begun. Rhett Sangster works with the Office of the Treaty Commissioner, coordinating efforts to engage both the public and community leaders on the nature of reconciliation in Saskatchewan. This process aims to work with as many partners as possible to identify shared priorities and a broadly-owned vision for the future. Shaid Heimbecker is a member of the Muskoday First Nation on Treaty 6 territory. She was eager to learn about the Treaties, Canada's history and the importance of her culture when she was in her adolescence and had the opportunity to work casually for the OTC from 2010 to 2015. Her return at the OTC in fall of 2021 has allowed her the opportunity of gaining a deeper understanding of Treaties and the history of Canada as well as her own culture, all of which she is passionate about. She is working with the Reconciliation team in the Truth and Reconciliation through Treaty Implementation(TRTI) Department, helping guide organizations on building an action plan for their reconciliation journey. Learn more about the Office of the Treaty Commissioner and how your municipality can work with Reconciliation Saskatchewan at http://www.otc.ca/pages/reconciliation_saskatchewan.html

In season 5 of MuniCast we are discussing how truth and reconciliation relates to municipalities. Episode 1: Truth, Law, and Reconciliation with John Stefaniuk K.C. outlines the calls that apply directly to municipal governments, and John discusses what that means for municipalities of all sizes, and how municipalities can uphold their responsibilities to work towards reconciliation. John is a practitioner of municipal law with the Manitoba law firm Thompson Dorfman Sweatman LLP. He engages in a broad practice which includes emphasis on municipal law, and has experience in municipal approvals, taxation and assessment, and business acquisitions. He appears regularly before government licensing bodies and administrative tribunals including the Manitoba Clean Environment Commission and Municipal Board, municipal councils, provincial legislative committees and in all levels of court in Manitoba and in the Federal Court in connection with environmental, resource, regulatory municipal, and property issues. Access the resources discussed in this episode: Federation of Canadian Municipalities Stronger Together Toolkit Association of Municipalities Ontario Resources on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action Toolkit Indigenous-Municipal Relationship Agreements: A Guide for Municipal Leaders What Municipal Leaders Can Do To Better Support Indigenous Residents And Neighbours At This Time Alberta Municipalities A Municipal Guide to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action Documentary Film (Saskatchewan) Reserve 107

In this episode we speak with University of Regina (UofR) researcher, Iryna Khovrenkov, the Executive Director of the Community Initiatives Fund, Tracey Mann and the CEO of Heritage Saskatchewan, Ingrid Cazakoff about the Wellbeing in Policy project, and their findings following a province-wide survey of Saskatchewan municipalities on mental health, culture, municipal economics, and environmental well-being. Tune in as we discuss how these important themes fit in with municipal planning and budgeting.

SaskTel is a regular participant in the Tradeshow at SUMA's Annual Convention and they value the opportunity to connect with SUMA members. Randy Palazzo, Business Development Manager, Business Sales and Solutions, SaskTel joins us to discuss the efforts SaskTel has been making to engage with communities of all sizes, share their approach to innovation and discuss the value of participating in the annual SUMA Convention and Tradeshow. Season 4 of MuniCast is sponsored by SaskTel.

In this episode of MuniCast we speak with Joan McCusker, 1998 Olympic Gold Medal Winner on the Sandra Schmirler curling team, about her Saskatchewan roots, the importance, and her role as the MC for the 2023 SUMA Convention and Tradeshow. Season 4 of MuniCast is sponsored by SaskTel

Cody Demerais will be the keynote speaker at the 2023 SUMA Convention and Tradeshow. In this episode Cody sits down with us to discuss his keynote presentation, why he is looking forward to talking to Saskatchewan's Urban Municipalities, and his experiences with mental health and addictions. Season 4 of MuniCast is sponsored by SaskTel

On this episode Andrew McDonald, Director of Marketing and Communications at Wanuskewin Heritage Park, joins us to discuss the story of Wanuskewin, the excellence of the site, and the value of an experience at the park. This year, SUMA is introducing optional excursions during the 2023 SUMA Convention and Tradeshow. Participants will have the opportunity to visit Wanuskewin Heritage Park and discover the thousands of years of history located on this unique site that is right here in Saskatchewan. Season 4 of MuniCast is sponsored by SaskTel

The Honourable Everett Hindley, bearpit participant at the annual SUMA Convention and Tradeshow, and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, Seniors, and Rural and Remote Health joins us to discuss the work that the ministry has been doing to address mental health and addictions, and the value of connecting with Saskatchewan's municipal leaders.

In this episode we are joined by Jodine Smith with SaskTel, and the Be Kind Online Program, and Cindy Fuchs with the Saskatchewan Roughrider Foundation. Be Kind Online aims to end bullying and cyberbullying in our communities and Saskatchewan Roughrider foundation's mission is to empower youth and communities through teaching skills like leadership, resilience, and responsibility. Tune in to this episode as we discuss how these two programs work together to address youth mental health throughout Saskatchewan.

In this episode we sit down with Caylee Stewart from LifeWorks to discuss the Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP). From time to time, we all need support to deal with an issue or challenge, the EFAP program is designed to support the mental wellbeing of employees and their families. Tune in as we discuss how the program works, the forms off assistance available, and walk you through what that first call may look like. The EFAP benefit is available for all SUMA Group Benefit subscribers, but please note that not all the subscribers have the EFAP benefit on their plan.

In 2013-14, the Embracing Life Initiative began. A call for action to reduce suicide, the initiative strives to share the strengths of northern communities and work together through healthy life promotion, suicide prevention, intervention, and post-vention. In Season 3, Episode 4 of MuniCast, we sit down with Brandi Bell, Senior Policy Analyst and Secretariat of Embracing Life, Northern Engagement and Indigenous and Northern Relations for the Ministry of Government Relations. Brandi speaks to us about the Embracing Life Initiative, the role of the community, and withholding judgement. To learn more about the Embracing Life Initiative click here.

In this episode of MuniCast we speak with Jordan McPhail, councillor for the Town of La Ronge, about what he sees for the future of northern communities, the importance of regional collaboration, and the value of community-based supports for addressing mental health and addictions. Jordan shares his experiences advocating for his community as a municipal leader, how the COVID-19 pandemic brought the mental health and addictions crisis to light, and his thoughts on jurisdictional barriers to addressing homelessness.

We sat down with SUMA President and Councillor for the City of Yorkton, Randy Goulden, to discuss her career in municipal politics, her involvement in SUMA and FCM, and what keeps her motivated to continue serving her municipality and municipal associations. Randy discusses the importance of connection and shares personal experiences around the value of reliable broadband, and the need for accessible public transportation throughout the province.

In Season 3, Episode 1 of MuniCast we sit down with former City of Edmonton Mayor, Don Iveson, to talk about everything from becoming a municipal leader, to COVID-19, to housing. Don shares personal and professional experiences that have shaped the way he engages with community members and how mental health, housing, and current trends in municipal leadership, are interconnected.

On the final episode of MuniCast Season 2, we sit down with former premier of Saskatchewan Lorne Calvert. Calvert served as the 13th premier of Saskatchewan from 2001 to 2007, and was leader of the Saskatchewan New Democratic Party until 2009. In this episode we discuss how Saskatchewan has changed over the last 15 years and what issues still exist today. Calvert brings a wealth of knowledge in this can't miss episode.

Reconciliation is a commonly heard buzzword in municipal governance, but what does a commitment to reconciliation really look like? Episode 5 of MuniCast sits down with University of Winnipeg academic Niigaanwewidam Sinclair to discuss how your community can work collaboratively with First Nation partners. Discussing how communities can work to support their partners and make a commitment to honour the treaties of Saskatchewan, this special 40-minute episode covers tough topics in a respectful way.

In today's digital landscape, connectivity is at the forefront of our business and home lives. Join us for a discussion on broadband with SaskTel's Paul Kelly and Greg Jacobs. This conversation covers the challenges of connectivity in the north, how communities can use data to create innovative solutions, and what you can do today to help your community secure reliable broadband tomorrow.

From SUMA member to SUMA President, Mayor Rodger Hayward has served his community, his region, his sector, and the entire membership. Join us for a discussion with former President Hayward as he shares his takeaways on leadership and learn from his time around the SUMA Board table. First elected in 1996, Mayor Hayward has a wealth of knowledge that he shares in this discussion on lessons in leadership.

First-term municipal leaders turned the page on their first year in leadership in November of 2021. At the same time, Minister of Government Relations Don McMorris finished his first year as minister. Join us as we look back at the lessons learned from an unprecedented first year in office and how even veteran members of the council can learn from the past year. In this interview, Minister McMorris shares his advice on how you can work with the provincial government to have your voice heard.

MuniCast is back with a new episode every month until June! The theme of Season Two is lessons in leadership and will feature a variety of interviews with leaders in the municipal, technology, and government sectors. Episodes will be released on the second Wednesday of every month and can be found on Spotify, Apple, Google or anywhere you get your podcasts! Join us as we talk with FCM President Joanne Vanderheyden about municipal leadership on a national level. As a 12-year mayor and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) President, Vanderheyden knows a thing or two about the challenges municipal leaders face. Coming from the Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc of 20,000 people Vanderheyden discusses many of the same concerns facing Saskatchewan leaders. The first episode of Season 2 is a can't miss with great advice on how you can have your hometown's voice heard on the national stage.

Parity around the council table is essential to robust discussion and representation of your residents. In recognition of Women's History Month, the final episode of Season 1 will focus on the role of women at the council table. In Episode 6 of MuniCast, hear Moose Jaw Councillor Crystal Froese and the first-ever female mayor of Regina, Sandra Masters discuss their roles as community leaders with a focus on the challenges women face in politics. We are starting plans for Season Two, so if you have suggestions for guests let us know by emailing Sarah MacMillan: communications@suma.org!

Mayor and council rely on the everyday work of CAOs and administration to execute their visions for their hometowns. Administrators rely on municipal officials to make decisions that help the community run efficiently. In Episode 5 of MuniCast, hear Lumsden Mayor Bryan Matheson and Lumsden CAO Monica Merkosky discuss their roles as community leaders and administration with a focus on how you can make the council-administration relationship work for your community. We are starting plans for Season Two, so if you have suggestions for guests let us know by emailing Sarah MacMillan: communications@suma.org!

As the 2021 SUMA Convention kicked off, viewers were delighted by a video showcasing the power of innovation and collaboration between SaskTel and the City of Melfort. During Convention, SaskTel's Paul Kelly asked viewers, "who wants to be the next Melfort?" Episode 4 of MuniCast dives deep into that question to explain what utilizing the innovation and collaboration team means for your municipality. In Episode 4 of MuniCast, hear Paul Kelly and Mike Stefaniuk discuss their role as innovation leaders and how you can benefit from the collaborative solutions SaskTel can provide. We tackle everything from water loss to technological innovation in this episode of MuniCast. We are starting plans for Season Two, so if you have suggestions for guests let us know by emailing Sarah MacMillan: communications@suma.org!

As the 2021 Scoop Lewry Award winner, former Humboldt mayor Malcolm Eaton boasts an impressive list of accomplishments during his tenure as councillor and then mayor of Humboldt. From adding onto the community's recreational facilities to being mayor when both a new school and a healthcare facility were officially opened in the city, Malcolm understands the importance of partnerships and working together for a common goal. Whether it was working with other orders of government, neighbouring municipalities, or local boards, he is quick to point out that every success was a team effort. In Episode 3 of MuniCast, hear Malcolm's tips for building and maintaining those crucial relationships, as well as other practical suggestions for what elected officials can do to ensure they leave a legacy to be proud of. We are officially at the halfway point of Season One of MuniCast, with three more great episodes coming up! We are starting plans for Season Two, so if you have suggestions for guests let us know by emailing Sarah MacMillan: communications@suma.org!

Episode 3 of MuniCast is coming July 14. However, we're excited to release bonus content from my conversation with Malcolm Eaton in advance of the full episode Governing Your Community With Malcolm Eaton. Enjoy this snippet on council picking up shovels in the community and when you know it's time to retire from municipal service.