Moose Jaw Saskatchewan

up with Mayor Fraser Tolmie for updates on progress in economic development, sustainability initiatives, and the overall positive vibe emanat- ing out of this iconic prairie city. The following is an edited transcript of that conversation. BVM: Mister Mayor, what has been front and center for your administration in the two years that you’ve been in office? Mayor Tolmie: “I was elected in Oct. 2016, and one of the biggest election issues was how to fund our cast iron water line replacement pro- gram– a proposed $117-million, 20-year initia- tive. The previous council had voted through a local improvement program, where a homeowner would pay for their water replacement line, plus a portion of the water line out front of their house. The community felt, and I agreed, that the com- munity portion of the water line infrastructure should be paid for by the community, and the homeowners’ responsibility would only be from the customer shut-off to the stopcock for the city water line. “We started this council with a $400-million in- frastructure deficit, or $400 million in infrastruc- ture that has not been addressed. Last year, we spent ten times what we’d previously spent on upgrades to aging infrastructure, so there’s been a lot of construction going on in this city; which creates a lot of inconvenience for residents navi- gating the streets and getting to businesses. “In 1905, the city put in cast iron water mains they believed would last for a century. 2005 was that 100-year mark. After World War II, in 1946, the city saw another growth spurt and they in- W hether you are here for a short time or a lifetime, the City of Moose Jaw welcomes you! Saskatchewan’s fourth largest city offers a high quality of life for working, raising a family, or retiring. Safe and affordable, Moose Jaw features access to recreation, parks, cultural, and business opportunities. Residents, known as Moose Javians, enjoy all the advantages of living in a smaller city with a diverse, yet inclusive, population and a strong economic base. Moose Jaw is a progressive city committed to building promising futures upon strong founda- tions. History comes to life through scenic murals on display throughout downtown’s Main Street, where shopping, restaurants, relaxing at the spa, and taking in a show at the Cultural Centre aim to please one and all. Business View Magazine profiled the City of Moose Jaw in Feb. 2017, and we recently caught MOOSE JAW, SASKATCHEWAN