Mayor Cynthia Block delivered a bold message during the State of the City event at TCU Place on May 14, addressing key issues such as homelessness, the Downtown Event and Entertainment District (DEED), and municipal funding. Speaking to a crowd of business leaders and media, Block emphasized the need for decisive action.
Downtown Event and Entertainment District
Block drew parallels between past controversial projects and the current DEED proposal. She recalled that TCU Place, originally the Centennial Auditorium, faced public opposition in the 1960s but is now a cherished downtown asset. Similarly, the relocation of railroad tracks for Midtown Plaza in the 1970s sparked anger, yet the mall became a vital anchor.
“These kinds of public investments bring in tourism, and private investment follows,” Block said. She noted that the Link Bus Rapid Transit system and DEED are modern examples of such transformative projects. While a previous partnership for DEED was rejected by city council, Block hinted that future collaboration remains possible. “There isn’t an announcement coming, but I hope there will be one in the future,” she stated.
Block acknowledged public concerns but stressed that DEED is not merely a “nice to have.” She pointed out that Saskatoon is losing business because the SaskTel Centre lacks sufficient opportunities for large events.
Homelessness Crisis
Block revealed that the latest point-in-time count identified 1,931 people experiencing homelessness in Saskatoon, a 30% increase from the previous year. “That is not sustainable, it is unmanageable, and I don’t think there’s a single person in this room that hasn’t been impacted by it and is frustrated,” she said.
The mayor emphasized that interim housing is the only viable solution. “There is no other way out. Housing is the foundation to begin recovery in 99.99 per cent of cases.” While supportive housing with wraparound services is expensive, Block argued that the current approach to homelessness costs the city even more.
City Funding Challenges
Block called for a “new deal” on how cities are funded, noting that municipalities maintain about 60% of Canada’s infrastructure but receive only 8% of tax revenue. She criticized property taxes as an inadequate tool, especially given the four-year assessment cycle that causes “enormous swings” and financial risk for homeowners and businesses.
The State of the City event underscored Block’s commitment to bold action, with a focus on long-term investments and equitable funding for Saskatoon’s growth.
