A new budget process was brought forward to Saskatoon city council, but the idea received unanimous opposition from council members.

Saskatoon City Council has decided not to pursue a formal priority-based budgeting model at this time, opting instead to continue with its current approach. City Administration had recommended implementing a “Priority-Based Budgeting Tool” that would “offer additional insight into which services and programs are of highest priority for the city and assist in future decision-making and allocations.”

The current approach to budgeting too often focuses on “line-by-line” adjustments without stepping back to assess the bigger picture. Saskatoon’s infrastructure pressures, service demands, and economic prospects are top of mind and today’s approach risks missing an opportunity to clearly define and fund what matters most. A budget should tell a clear story about the City’s priorities and direction.

According to Chamber members, it’s a missed opportunity. Our businesses fuel the local economy, drive investment, create jobs, and sustain the tax base and yet the current process can make it difficult to see how Council’s budget decisions support and align with these broader economic goals.

The Chamber will continue to make the case for a more focused and strategic approach that sets priorities (first) and brings business into that conversation (early). We will also continue to make the case for “economic growth” and “job creation” as criteria to include in any/all Council budget deliberations.

Read Administration’s short report and recommendation here.

Local news coverage of decision here.