YORKTON - Yorkton Mayor Aaron Kienle gave those attending the Yorkton Chamber of Commerce AGM a look at what’s happening from a municipal perspective in the city.
Calling the presentation “something that’s kind of been a highlight on my calendar,” Kienle covered a range of topics in brief, from the most recent hike in property taxes, to capital projects undertaken in 2024 and planned for this year, to an increased city presence on various web-based platforms.
Kienle also noted how good a community Yorkton is.
“Yorkton is a city that defies expectations,” he said. “It’s a blend of small-town ease and urban ambition which makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a refined yet grounded way of life. A growing economic hub with a cultural edge, Yorkton is attracting a new wave of talent, drawn by its affordability, connectivity, and an enviable work-life balance. Whether you’re looking for career growth, a welcoming community, or a place to lay down roots, Yorkton delivers all the right ingredients. Our people are our strength – each group, each individual a thread in the bright and strong fabric of our community.”
In terms of the tax increases Kienle said 1.84 per cent is going to capital to help reduce “the infrastructure deficit we talk about so much.”
The remaining 2.06 per cent increase goes to operations.
Kienle noted that in all but two of the last 10 years the increase operational spending by the city has been less than the consumer price index.
When it came to spending those capital dollars, Kienle said the city has undertaken several large projects in the last couple of years, most notable perhaps the York Road reconstruction.
Other projects of significance the Mayor touched on was the $4.5 million rehabilitation of the Kinsmen Arena.
“It’s on time as of now,” he said, adding it is planned to be completed in time for normal fall use.
This summer $1.4 million will be invested to upgrade the current ozone filtration system at the Access Communications Water Park to an ultraviolet system, continued the mayor.
Kienle also reviewed funding available to businesses such as business creation and expansion, vacant building tax abatement and façade and site improvement, each with an annual allotment of $100,000 available.
The challenges were also touched upon.
“Over the past year, the City of Yorkton has taken meaningful steps to address some of the most complex social challenges we face today—particularly those related to mental health, addictions, and housing insecurity,” offered Kienle. “In 2024, we applied for and received funding to complete Phase II of our Community Safety and Well-being Initiatives. This phase focused on a detailed gap analysis of mental health and addictions treatment services in our city.
“Throughout the process, we consulted with Indigenous partners, community organizations, and—critically—individuals with lived experience. Their voices shaped a recommended action plan that was approved by City Council, helping us understand the service gaps that can stand in the way of recovery, stable shelter, and food security.
“While health care and addiction treatment are provincial responsibilities, we, as a city, are directly impacted by the collateral effects—from trauma and loitering to overdoses and emergency responses. Since 2020, shelter use in Canada has risen by 34 per cent, and Yorkton has not been immune to those pressures.”
A plan is being developed said the Mayor.
“To address these challenges locally, we recently secured grant funding to establish a Barriers to Access Coordinator,” he said. “This new position is already making a difference—improving collaboration among community stakeholders and creating a Community Resource Guide to help our most vulnerable residents meet their basic needs.
“We’ve also increased Community Safety Officer patrols in the downtown business area to ensure vulnerable individuals are supported—not criminalized—so they don’t slip further down the housing continuum. At the same time, we’ve strengthened our Fire Prevention Bylaw to address unsafe housing and protect both residents and the community at large.
“Yorkton is showing that even within municipal limits, we can lead with compassion, act with intention, and build a city where every individual has the chance to be safe, supported, and seen.”
