Regina Minute: Snow Accumulation, Recycling Model, and Housing Development Rejected

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

This Week In Regina:

• The Regina Planning Commission will meet on Tuesday at 4:00 pm to address Administrative Amendments to the Zoning Bylaw.
  
  
• The Executive Committee will meet on Wednesday at 9:00 am. The Committee will discuss whether or not to endorse the City to opt into SK Recycles’ community-led model where the City will continue to collect curbside recycling but no longer be responsible for processing recycled materials.
  
  
• On Thursday, at 9:00 am, the Board of Police Commissioners will meet. No agenda is available for this meeting yet. On Thursday, at 4:00 pm, the Audit and Finance Committee will meet. Much of this meeting will be held in-camera.

Last Week In Regina:

• Snow accumulation has caused issues with narrowed driving lanes and parking spaces, particularly in residential areas like Albert Park. Residents have raised concerns about limited visibility, with high snow piles blocking drivers' views, especially at intersections. The City clarified that after a snowfall of 5 cm or more, snow is removed from key roads within 48 hours, while snow ridges may remain in parking lanes. Full snow removal is reserved for high-priority areas like schools, hospitals, and transit stops, as removing all snow would cost over $10 million and take weeks. Residents are being asked to manage snow ridges near their properties to ensure better access to parking.
  
  
• Council rejected an apartment development proposal for Albert Park after the Regina Airport Authority expressed concerns over potential noise impacts. The proposed three-storey, 18-unit complex was close to the airport’s south landing strip, where noise from aircraft could lead to complaints and possible runway restrictions. Despite the City's push for infill development in established neighbourhoods, Council voted against the project, citing airport concerns about zoning changes that could affect airport operations. City officials had supported the development due to the growing rental demand, while the airport continued to oppose higher-density residential projects in its proximity.
  
  
• Joe and Irene's Youth Home, a new mental health group home for youth, has opened in Regina's north end, offering support for youth aged 12 to 18. The home is a collaboration between the Government of Saskatchewan and Eagle Heart Centre, with the province providing $800,000 annually to fund the initiative. It offers a safe and caring environment for five youth at a time, with 24/7 mental health and addiction services, including life skills activities. The group home is Indigenous-run and will provide culturally appropriate services, with a focus on supporting Indigenous youth.