Council Meeting Highlights – January 28, 2026: Rescue Unit, Ice Resurfacer, Highway 1 Speed Zone
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This summary highlights the key decisions and updates from the January 28, 2026 meeting of Gull Lake Town Council.
Present: Mayor Nasser Zanidean, Councillors Brandon Wessner, Steven Haithwaite, Terry Stevenson, Neal Boutin, Tyson Migneault (arrived 7:07 p.m.), Administrator Emella Waiser
Absent: Councillor Turton
Meeting Overview
Mayor Zanidean called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Staff & Committee Reports
• Water Treatment
7:00 p.m. — December 2025 Water Report
Presented by Water Plant Operator D. Vold (departed at 7:09 p.m.)
• Plain‑language note:
The monthly water report outlines how the treatment plant performed, including water quality testing, chemical levels, and any operational issues. These updates help council ensure the community’s drinking water remains safe and compliant with provincial standards.
• Economic Development
January EDO Report (Written)—Submitted by L. Alliban
• Plain‑language note:
The Economic Development Officer’s report highlights ongoing business support, community promotion, and local development initiatives. It keeps council informed about projects that strengthen the local economy, attract visitors, and support business activity in Gull Lake.
• Gull Lake Ambulance—January 19, 2026 meeting
• Plain‑language note:
The Ambulance Committee provides updates on emergency medical services, including staffing, call volumes, equipment needs, and operational matters. These reports help council stay aware of regional EMS capacity and service levels.
• Fire Board — Rescue truck update (Councillors Stevenson & Boutin)
• Background for residents:
Council previously approved the quote for a new rescue unit, which includes a 2026 Ford F550 ($95,553 + $699 admin), a custom box from ITB Ltd ($257,635), a $2,000 down payment, and applicable taxes. The total project cost is approximately $400,000, with the Town responsible for 25% of that amount.
• Plain‑language note:
The Fire Board update tracks progress on the new rescue unit project and other fire‑service planning. These updates ensure council remains informed about equipment readiness, capital projects, and regional emergency‑response coordination.
Minutes & Accounts
• Previous Minutes
Council approved the minutes from the January 14, 2026 regular meeting.
• Accounts Approved
• Education Property Tax payment of $2,503.15
Plain‑language note:
This is the routine approval of the Town’s monthly bills and financial obligations.
Correspondence
Council received and filed the following:
• SWTPC—November 25, 2025 meeting
Plain‑language note:
SWTPC stands for Southwest Transportation Safety Committee. It’s a regional group that reviews transportation‑related safety issues—such as highways, signage, traffic flow, and regional transportation concerns—and shares updates with member municipalities.
• Gull Lake Municipal Airport—Revenue & Expenditure Statement
Plain‑language note:
This statement outlines the airport’s income and expenses for the reporting period. It helps council monitor the airport’s financial position and ensure the facility remains sustainable for aviation users and the region.
• SUMA Convention—April 12–15, 2026
Plain‑language note:
The SUMA Convention is the annual gathering of Saskatchewan’s municipal leaders. The 2026 theme is “Stronger Together: Building Resilient Communities.” The event includes training sessions, workshops, and meetings with provincial officials. Attendance helps council stay informed on policy changes, funding opportunities, and best practices that support local governance and community development.
Key Decisions
1. Purchase of Ice Resurfacer
Council approved the purchase of a 2012 Olympia Millennium Ice Resurfacer for $24,255.00, with the Gull Lake & District Recreational Complex contributing $10,000.
Conflict of Interest:
Mayor Zanidean and Councillor Migneault (board members) declared a conflict and left the meeting during this item. They returned at 7:45 p.m.
Plain‑language note:
An ice resurfacer is the machine used to clean and smooth the ice surface at the rink. It shaves the ice, collects snow, and lays down a thin layer of hot water to create a safe, even skating surface. Replacing aging equipment helps ensure reliable ice quality for hockey, figure skating, public skating, and community events.
2. Water System Upgrades—Change Order Approved
Council approved Change Order No. 6 Rev 1 from Crossroad Energy Solutions Inc. for work related to the Well Control Building and Water Treatment Plant programming.
Plain‑language note:
This is part of ongoing upgrades to ensure the water system remains safe, modern, and reliable.
3. Highway 1 Speed Zone Feedback
Council authorized the Administrator to provide comments to the Ministry of Highways supporting a reduction of the 80 km/h zone on Highway No. 1 from two kilometres to one kilometre.
Plain‑language note:
Traffic‑engineering principles used across Canada emphasize that speed limits work best when they feel credible to drivers and match the conditions they see on the road. Shorter transition zones can help keep speeds lower closer to an intersection or turning area, while longer buffer zones sometimes lead to early acceleration or “speed creep.” These are general engineering concepts provided here to help residents understand the context behind council’s feedback.
4. PD Programming Staff Hired
Council approved hiring two PD Leaders:
• M. Stusrud—$17.00/hour
• S. Harvey—$17.00/hour
Plain‑language note:
These positions support local programming and activities for children and youth.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:01 p.m.
What Residents Can Expect
The rescue unit project remains underway through the regional Fire Board partnership, with further information to be shared as formal updates become available.
The 2012 Olympia Millennium ice resurfacer will move forward for use at the Gull Lake & District Recreational Complex, improving ice quality for local programs and events.
Ongoing water system modernization, including programming work at the Well Control Building and Water Treatment Plant, aimed at strengthening safety, reliability, and long‑term performance.
Submission of council’s Highway 1 speed‑zone feedback to the Ministry of Highways, supporting a shorter 80 km/h transition zone approaching the access road.
Continued economic development reporting, with written updates provided to council as part of regular administration.
Youth programming is supported by the hiring of two new PD Leaders, helping maintain stable PD‑day activities in the community.
Stay Connected
Council Meetings:
Second and fourth Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers. Meetings are open to the public. Agendas are not posted in advance; residents may call the Town Office for information before attending: (306) 672‑3361
Community Voice:
Residents are encouraged to share input directly with Council or the Town Administrator.
Updates:
Follow Gull Lake Events for council news and community highlights.
Official Record:
For the complete official record, you can view the Town of Gull Lake Council minutes in PDF format [here].
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