YORKTON – It’s the dawn of a new year, which means it’s the perfect time to reflect on the year just past, and what lies ahead, especially for Mayor Aaron Kienle and Yorkton.
When asked what was the highlight as Mayor in 2025, Kienle said it was not one thing, but more a general positive trends.
“For me, the highlight of 2025 was seeing Yorkton move forward together with a real sense of shared purpose,” he told Yorkton This Week. “It felt like a year where Council, Administration, and the community were truly pulling in the same direction.”
But a few things drew added attention for Kienle too.
“One moment that really stood out was representing Yorkton alongside six other mayors, and two provincial ministers in Ottawa, advocating for our city and for Saskatchewan communities,” said Kienle. “That experience was a reminder of how far we’ve come in building relationships and finding our voice at both the provincial and federal levels.”
Next Kienle focused back locally.
“Closer to home, it was incredibly rewarding to see ideas turn into action. From major infrastructure projects being completed, to new services launching, to community events bringing people together, 2025 felt like a year where trust grew and momentum was built,” said Kienle. “It was an absolute pleasure to represent Yorkton.”
That does not mean 2025 was without its challenges.
“The greatest challenge has been balancing the growing demands on our city with the responsibility we have to residents today and to Yorkton’s future,” said Kienle.
“We’re facing aging infrastructure, rising costs, and increasing expectations all at the same time.
“Making decisions in that environment requires careful thought, honest conversations, and sometimes tough choices. Those choices aren’t always easy, but they matter. They’re about protecting essential services now while making sure we’re not passing bigger problems on to future councils and future taxpayers.
“I believe we approached those challenges thoughtfully, responsibly, and with a long term view of what’s best for Yorkton.”
But there is little time for reflection when the calendar changes to a new year.
So, what would Kienle most like to see the city accomplish in 2026?
The mayor suggested it was time to stay the course, saying “2025 was about laying the foundation. In 2026, I want to see us continue building on that momentum.
“I’d like to see Yorkton move forward in ways that strengthen community pride, advance smart infrastructure planning, support economic development, and improve overall well-being. These things are connected. When people feel proud of their city, confident in its leadership, and optimistic about the future, everything else becomes possible.
“In 2026, I want residents to feel even more confident in the direction we’re heading and proud of the progress being made. Strong partnerships, clear communication, and thoughtful investments will continue to guide us as we move ahead. I’m also really stoked about the music festival coming in August 2026!”
But, again challenges loom, in particular, when it comes to city dollars, said Kienle.
“The year ahead will bring continued financial pressures, important infrastructure decisions, and the ongoing need to advocate strongly with other levels of government. Those challenges are real, and they aren’t going away,” he said.
“We also have two major projects that are critical to Yorkton’s future: a new wastewater treatment plant and a new hospital. Both are needed, and we need to see real progress on each of them. That means continued advocacy, strong partnerships, and making sure Yorkton’s voice is clearly heard at the provincial and federal levels.”
It’s also imperative the city grasp the positives, offered Kienle.
“At the same time, there are real opportunities in front of us, particularly around housing, economic growth, and continued collaboration with all levels of governments,” he said. “We also need to stay focused on supporting local businesses and delivering the services residents rely on every day.
“The challenge will be managing all of this while keeping the day-to-day work of the city running smoothly. It will be a busy year, but also an exciting one.
“If we stay focused, work together, and keep our eyes on the long term future of Yorkton, I’m confident we can continue moving the city forward in a positive way.”
