Regina Minute: Meeting Frustrations, Mandatory Screenings, and Canada Day Festivities

Regina Minute - Your weekly one-minute summary of Regina politics

This Week In Regina:

• Happy Canada Day! There's a solid lineup of events to help you celebrate, highlighted by the annual fireworks display at Wascana Park starting around 10:30 pm, weather permitting. Throughout the day, festivities at the Saskatchewan Legislative Building grounds include a free pancake breakfast, live music, family activities, and a strongman competition. To check times and full details, click here. Also taking place today is Lieutenant Governor Russell Mirasty's event at Government House, featuring outdoor attractions, live entertainment, and indoor exhibits for all ages to enjoy.
  
  
• There is just the single meeting at City Hall this week, on account of the Canada Day long weekend. The Board of Revision will meet at 9:00 am on Friday.
  
  
• Frustration is mounting among the public and even some Councillors due to extended, marathon meetings. A recent session was marked by tied votes and dwindling quorum, leading to adjournment and the postponement of debate items, such as renaming Dewdney Avenue. Some delegates waited for hours to speak, only to have Councillors leave at the legislated break after the meeting ran long. Some Councillors expressed concern with how long the public has to wait to speak, others suggested that items are debated for too long, and there was mention of procedural changes to streamline future meetings.

Last Week In Regina:

• In 2023, the City of Regina saw an increase in the number of employees earning over $200,000, rising from 11 to 18 individuals. City Manager Niki Anderson topped the list with a salary of $297,173, followed by former REAL CEO Tim Reid at $260,899. Other top earners included Barry Lacey, Deborah Bryden, and Roberta Engel, reflecting high-ranking positions in financial strategy, city planning, and corporate services. Among the Regina Police Service, Deputy Chief Dean Rae led with $267,843, while Mayor Sandra Masters claimed $163,428, with significant expenditures in travel reaching $30,240, the highest in her tenure.
  
  
• An update was provided on the construction progress of Regina's new Breast Health Centre, located at 1621 Albert St. in the Regina Centre Crossing building. Expected to open by spring 2025, the Centre aims to centralize breast cancer evaluation and treatment services, including diagnostic imaging, specialist consultations, patient education, and post-treatment care. With an investment of $3.6 million from the provincial government for renovations, staffing, and equipment, the Centre is anticipated to serve over 5,000 patients annually from Regina and southern Saskatchewan.
  
  
• It was announced that, this month Regina drivers can anticipate mandatory alcohol screenings during police stops, aimed at reducing impaired driving incidents. Refusal to provide a breath sample may lead to immediate penalties like license suspension or vehicle impoundment. Convicted offenders face hefty fines, mandatory education, Safe Driver Recognition penalties, and Ignition Interlock requirements. This seems a lot like being deemed guilty until proven innocent, but it has unfortunately been upheld by the Canadian court system and is perfectly legal. Doesn’t mean we like it though!