CARLYLE — The Government of Canada has released its census figures for 2021, with all municipalities in southeast Saskatchewan showing nominal gains or losses since 2016.
The Town of Carlyle’s population grew from 1,508 to 1,524, a modest increase of 16 people or 1.1 per cent.
Said Mayor Jenn Sedor: “While we did not see a huge jump in numbers, our population remains stable with steady, sustainable growth. These numbers reflect a very difficult point in the history of Carlyle’s economy. To see that there was even nominal growth during this time is a reaction of the resilience in our community. We are seeing results of a diverse economy that can withstand some heavy pressure.
“We are in a great location geographically and are attractive for tourism, agriculture, energy, hospitality and service industries. Our infrastructure has been improved and meticulously maintained ahead of many other communities, allowing for a plentiful source of excellent drinking water even during times of drought.”
Added Sedor: “I have no doubt that our next census numbers will show larger gains in population and our current council has set plans for sustainable growth management in our community. These may have been some of the most complicated years but Carlyle is looking ahead and is ready for future development.”
Jade Moore is the co-owner of Eve Realty. Moore said: “Over the past two years, we’ve had about a 48 per cent increase in the number of sales in town year over year. This is largely due to the decrease in market value year over year as well (sales prices have dropped approximately 15 per cent since 2019). With the combination of more affordable homes, new employment opportunities, and our amazing amenities, I foresee Carlyle’s population to continue growing.”
Moore concluded, “Raising my own family in Carlyle, I can totally relate to why young families decide to purchase their ‘forever’ homes here. We have facilities and activities here to cater to all ages and income levels, including the swimming pool, splash park, Cornerstone Family and Youth Program, gymnastics, dance class, karate, two gyms including CrossFit, the golf course, having our two beautiful lakes nearby, and so much more. I feel grateful to live in Carlyle and wouldn’t choose any other place to raise our kids.”
Performance Realty Owner Ray Boutin also commented: “As to why Carlyle’s population has seen some positive growth, I would suggest that there’s a lot of truth to the old slogan ‘Carlyle Has It.’”
Upon asking a recent homeowner who was moving for a job progression, he advised that you really do not need to leave Carlyle, as everything you need is here. He pointed to the good compliment of retail stores including clothing.
Quality of life is enhanced with a good diversity of activities and facilities for golfing, curling, hockey, ball, a summer pool, numerous eating establishments, numerous service clubs, two schools, and for the health conscious, your choice of gyms with Living Skies Cross fit, Built For Life Gym and Lotus Tree for yoga.
The proximity to nearby lake and resort areas helps keep the retail and restaurant sector viable and heck we even have one of the last Drive-in Theatres standing & operating.
“We have an advantage over other towns, perhaps due to the RCMP detachment, SaskPower crew and district office, and the Canadian Energy/PureChem production facility south of town, and going forward the PIC Genetics barn is going to help us grow. Other considerations are farmers moving into town towards retirement and … numerous businesses have engaged newcomers from the Philippines to fill various jobs whom positively contribute to our community.”
“In terms of real estate, we usually have a varied inventory of good value homes available (except for the height of the past energy boom where it was slim pickings and pricing was peaking) and the town has invested in developing residential lots that are ready for new home builds. Currently we have 21 homes on the market on the MLS system and we have already seen five homes sold this year. Two were first-time owners, one was upgrading, one couple was moving in to retire and another was moving in to work in the ag/farm sector. Carlyle is really a great place to live, work and play and is positioned to accommodate more growth.”
Other population totals for communities were (number in brackets is the 2016 census total): Alameda, 345 (369); Alida, 103 (120); Arcola, 636 (657); Carievale 85 (240); Carnduff 1,150 (1,099); Fairlight 25 (40); Forget 35 (55); Gainsborough 227 (254); Glen Ewen 159 (154); Kenosee Lake 236 (234); Kisbey 158 (153); Lampman 673 (675); Manor 305 (295); Maryfield 311 (348); Oxbow 1,286 (1,328); Redvers 1,008 (1,042); Storthoaks 86 (108); Stoughton 652 (649); Wawota 555 (543); and Windthorst 194 (211).
The population in the RMs was: Antler 451 (523); Argyle 331 (290); Brock 252 (267); Browning 355 (375); Chester 333 (383); Enniskillen 422 (459); Golden West 291 (289); Hazelwood 244 (230); Kingsley 444 (396); Maryfield 258 (324); Moose Creek 306 (379); Moose Mountain 489 (492); Mount Pleasant 419 (414); Reciprocity 355 (341); Silverwood 355 (410); Storthoaks 306 (292); Techumseh 255 (271); Walpole 292 (326); and Wawken 614 (517).
