SASKATOON — The city administration proposes a short-term private procurement of plants with a long-term vision for shared greenhouse space, according to a report outlining future options for the city greenhouse.
The proposal is set to be reviewed by the City Council's Standing Policy Committee on Planning, Development and Community Services on Wednesday, June 7.
Following an engineering assessment in September 2022, which highlighted safety concerns and structural issues with the current greenhouse facility, the city undertook a public procurement process. It secured a private vendor to supply seasonal plants for the 2023 season.
Director of Parks Darren Crilly expressed the vision for a potential long-term greenhouse, involving partnerships with various groups in the city, including Meewasin, the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Polytechnic, the Saskatoon Food Bank, and others.
Preliminary discussions with these groups have revealed their need for greenhouse space, suggesting the potential for a shared space opportunity. This option could incorporate educational initiatives, research activities, and community programs focusing on native species, food security, and seed bank storage.
The report recommends that plant material be procured from the private sector in the short term (three to five years). At the same time, the city continues to seek partnerships and develop an optimal greenhouse model.
Updates will be provided as discussions progress with potential partners. The administration report presents numerous future options, all aimed at maintaining the current service level with the possibility of future expansion.
Under all proposed options, the conservatory material currently stored in the greenhouse will be relocated to suitable city facilities.
