Free Saturday Parking and Handicap Permit Fee Rollback

I will implement two new initiatives to support local businesses, bolster Saskatoon’s downtown, and make the city more accessible for all residents. I will introduce free Saturday parking at all city meters and remove the recent fee increases on handicap parking permits.

Free Saturday Downtown Parking

Free Saturday parking is a simple, effective way to encourage residents to come downtown and support local shops, while making it easier and more inviting to spend time in Saskatoon.

I am also committed to revising the current parking revenue distribution model so it benefits our Business Improvement Districts and is a transparent process.

Handicap Parking Permit Fee Rollback

Last year, this city council approved an increase a fee increase from $20 to $100 for handicap parking permits. I will rollback this unnecessary fee increase.

I will also reinstate the 8 hour time limit which was lowered to 4 hours. The decreased time limit is punitive for people who have limited mobility and work downtown. My rollback will provide an affordability break to those who require handicap parking permits while also making our city more inclusive.

Community Safety and Economic Revitalization

My free Saturday parking and handicap permit rollbacks complement my broader strategy to revitalize Saskatoon’s downtown, improve safety, and make the city affordable and accessible for all.

My other safety and economic initiatives include:

• Strengthened Community Safety Plans: Police precincts, and strengthened community safety plans for downtown and Fairhaven until the Wellness Centre is moved.
• Incentives for Downtown Revitalization: Converting vacant spaces into housing, cultural spaces, and community-focused areas.
• Homegrown Saskatoon Procurement Policy: Prioritizing local businesses for city contracts to ensure taxpayer dollars stay within Saskatoon, rather than outsourcing work to out-of-province companies.

These new measures are a commitment to real change that respects our residents and businesses. Together, we can make Saskatoon an affordable, accessible, and thriving city that supports its people and its economy.