Mayor Michael Fougere addressed a crowded room at his state of the city address Thursday morning put on by the Regina and District Chamber of Commerce.
Fougere had many topics to discuss, including transit and the city’s plan to end homelessness.
Fougere opened his remarks with addressing the western separation movement, saying it’s a debate based off of frustration.
“I don’t want to have a conversation about separation, I think we need to get over that, move on and look at the bigger picture and talk about how we can work together, and collaborate and find solutions,” Fougere said. “Talking is one thing, but solutions are important. I just don’t think it’s productive and in our interests as a nation to talk about separating in western Canada.”
Another major talking point was road construction. Fougere said while the city is looking at 24 hour construction and getting crews to work weekends, he is not concerned about paying more for those services.
“It’s a competitive bid process, and people want to work and they are looking for work because the economy is slow,” Fougere said. “They will do the work and they won’t charge more for it; it’s competition.”
Fougere said he hopes 2020 can be another year full of events for Regina.
“We have Mr. (Tim) Reid at Evraz (Place) and his staff focusing on driving events to our downtown, driving it to Evraz Place,” Fougere said. “He’s done a great job this year I should say, and next year I’m hoping he’ll do the same thing, so we’re looking forward to some great events.”
Next year, Regina will see the 2020 Grey Cup and the 50th anniversary of Agribition.
