Saskatoon mayor commends Wall on 10 years of leadership

Saskatoon’s mayor is thanking Premier Brad Wall for his years of service.

Charlie Clark told reporters Thursday afternoon while he doesn’t share the same political views as Wall, they’ve had a good working relationship.

“When I got elected and we started talking about what we want to see for the city … (it was) the need to make sure we were a city and province that continues to create good jobs so people have opportunities,” he said.

“To his credit, we have grown to understand each other.”

Clark said Wall’s legacy would be of leadership through a transitional time in the province.

“Think of the changes our province, our city has gone through in the last 10 years,” he said.

“We’ve had tremendous population growth, tremendous economic growth and a tremendous time of transition. Leading in a time like that has its opportunities and its challenges.”

Saskatoon’s mayor said there’s now some uncertainty on where the relationship with the province will go, with a Sask. Party leadership race on the horizon.

He emphasized the importance of a smooth succession.

“The key is that there’s a good and thoughtful transition,” Clark said.

“We need to be making sure we’re not missing opportunities and we’re coming up with the best creative solutions to address some of the issues we’re facing, even while they’re going through that process.”

Clark said he would look to Wall for guidance on leadership, given the premier’s extensive experience in the province’s top political post.

He’s also hoping the next premier will be a partner to the city, like Wall was.

“One that recognizes that cities can really help the province achieve its goals,” he said.

“And one who’s open and transparent and creative at finding new ways to do that.”