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The organization representing Saskatchewan’s urban municipalities is pushing back against a suggestion by its president to possibly amalgamate some of the province’s local governments.
The Municipalities of Saskatchewan (MOS), formerly known as the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association, sent out a release contradicting statements president Gordon Barnhart made to the Saskatoon StarPhoenix last week.
In the interview, Barnhart told the paper amalgamation of some municipalities may be a way to reduce financial strains due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Barnhart could not be reached by 650 CKOM, despite several attempts.
A statement signed by Moose Jaw Mayor Fraser Tolmie and other members of the MOS executive on Monday disputed Barnhart’s suggestions.
“Municipalities of Saskatchewan is not in favour of municipal amalgamation, particularly forced amalgamation,” the statement read.
“The Board of Directors adopted a policy in February 2017 specifically stating that municipal amalgamation is unnecessary. Municipal autonomy is essential in preserving local identity and meeting local priorities.”
The statement also noted the organization’s rebranding wasn’t an attempt to promote any amalgamations, or to push for a merger between it and the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities.
“The rebranding was designed to embrace the strength and breadth of all our hometowns — Saskatchewan’s cities, towns, villages, resort villages, and northern municipalities,” the statement reads.
Saskatchewan has 774 local governments.