AN OVERVIEW OF THE DEMOGRAPHIC,
ECONOMIC, SOCIAL, AND
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES & TRENDS
IN SASKATOON 2013-2014
FOR CITY COUNCIL REVIEW, DECEMBER 3-4, 2013
Statistics Canada instituted the National Household Survey in 2011 to replace the long
form Census of previous Census cycles. The National Household Survey methodology
is different than that used form the long form Census; it is a voluntary survey, and as a
result the response rates to the survey may vary widely over the community.
It is important to note that direct comparison of the results of the National Household
Survey to the Census of previous years, may be unreliable because we are unable to
verify with confidence whether observed differences are due to an actual change in the
characteristic being measured - or caused by the change in methodology. Nonetheless,
it is the new methodology going forward.
Review of data that includes both Census survey results and National Household Survey
results should be considered knowing that this methodology change has occurred.
ISSUES AND TRENDS
IMPACTING THE CITY OF
SASKATOON 2013-2014
AN OVERVIEW OF DEMOGRAPHIC, ECONOMIC, SOCIAL,
AND ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES &TRENDS
This section of the document provides an overview of key population and demographics; economic, social, and environmental issues
and trends that the City of Saskatoon considers and utilizes in developing and preparing its 2014 Corporate Business Plan and Budget.
By paying attention to these issues and trends, the City of Saskatoon is able to more efficiently dedicate its human, financial, and
technological resources to key programs and services.
Population and Demographic Issues and Trends
Saskatoon’s strong economy has resulted in continuous and substantial population increases in recent years. For the third consecutive
year, Saskatoon has recorded the strongest growth of any CMA in Canada. Saskatoon’s population increased by a rate of 40.4 per
thousand; the CMA’s of Regina (31.5 per thousand) and Calgary (31.4 per thousand) had the second and third largest population increases
in Canada for 2012.
According to Statistics Canada, the population of the Saskatoon CMA – which includes cities and towns such as Martensville, Warman,
and Delisle – was 284,008 as of July 1, 2012.
Annual Population Growth Saskatoon CMA
12,000
11,237
10,000
8,000
7,147
7,033
2009
2010
7,631
6,125
6,000
4,000
2,000
0
2008
2011
2012
Source: Statistics Canada Annual Demographic Estimates: Subprovincial Areas, 2012
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
1
ISSUES AND TRENDS
Subsequent charts will break down the sources of the population to provide a better perspective on the types of people moving to the
Saskatoon region.
More locally, the City of Saskatoon’s internal projections and estimates indicate that as of July 1, 2013, Saskatoon’s population had
reached 246,300. Since 2006, the city has added over 38,000 new residents averaging 6,000 new residents per year.
The following graph shows high and medium population growth projections for Saskatoon. If these projections materialize,
Saskatoon’s population will be above 275,000 in just five years.
City of Saskatoon Population Growth, Projection: 2002-2018(f)
City of Saskatoon Population Estimate
Population Projection (2.5% Growth Rate)
280,000
Population Projection (2% Growth Rate)
278,666
271,869
265,238
270,000
271,935
258,769
260,000
252,458
246,300
250,000
266,603
261,376
256,251
251,226
240,000
227,327
230,000
239,000
220,000
210,000
208,007
206,075
201,705
216,082
200,000
190,000
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013 2014(f) 2015(f) 2016(f) 2017(f) 2018(f)
Source: Statistics Canada, City of Saskatoon Population Estimates, July 2013
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ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
ISSUES AND TRENDS
Saskatoon’s strong population growth has been driven primarily by international immigration. As shown in the charts below, 65% of net
migration in the CMA has come from international immigration.
Moreover, the population data reveals significant increases in both net interprovincial (more people moving from other provinces) and
intraprovincial (more people moving from Saskatchewan communities) migration. This means more people are moving to, rather than
moving from, Saskatoon from other cities and communities across Canada and Saskatchewan.
Net Migration to the Saskatoon CMA 2007-2012
International Immigration
10,000
Interprovincial Migration
Intraprovincial Migration
2,074
8,000
1,240
6,000
4,000
986
1,121
1,295
1,295
891
1,118
980
3,485
2,946
2,942
2008/09
2009/10
2010/11
928
2,000
2,759
6,068
0
2007/08
2011/12
Source: Statistics Canada Annual Demographic Estimates: Subprovincial Areas, 2012
Another important component of population growth is the number of births over deaths, referred to as the “natural increase in population”.
As shown below, the Saskatoon CMA is experiencing a “baby boom” of sorts. This positive trajectory indicates that more daycare spaces,
schools, and recreation facilities will be required to accommodate this growth.
Natural Increase in the Saskatoon CMA Population 2007-2012
2,000
1,855
1,800
1,500
1,485
1,549
1,631
1,694
1,200
900
600
300
0
2007/08
2008/09
2009/10
2010/11
2011/12
Source: Statistics Canada Annual Demographic Estimates: Subprovincial Areas, 2012
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
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ISSUES AND TRENDS
Economic Issues and Trends
Saskatoon is Saskatchewan’s largest city. With a growing population and a thriving business sector, Saskatoon has positioned itself as
an attractive and vibrant city that is a primary engine of the Saskatchewan economy. Notwithstanding the global economic challenges,
Saskatoon’s diverse economy, low unemployment, healthy real estate market, and rising incomes, all indicate that Saskatoon will continue
to grow and prosper, becoming an even more attractive and competitive city.
One factor driving Saskatoon’s population growth is the abundance of job opportunities that are available in the city. Employment growth in
2013 and 2014 is projected to be significant as the economy continues to be strong.
Saskatoon Employment Growth 2007-2014(f)
7.0
6.6%
6.0
5.6%
5.0
4.6%
4.0
3.5%
3.0
1.9%
1.8%
2.0
1.0
0.0
-0.8%
-0.8%
2010
2011
-1.0
2007
2008
2009
2012
2013(f)
2014(f)
Source: Conference Board of Canada
As shown below, Saskatoon’s unemployment rate is projected to fall slightly in 2013.
Saskatoon’s Unemployment Rate 2005-2017(f)
6.0%
5.0%
5.4%
5.0%
5.7%
5.6%
4.9%
4.6%
4.4%
4.0%
4.0%
2007
2008
5.1%
5.1%
5.1%
5.1%
2014(f)
2015(f)
2016(f)
2017(f)
4.0%
3.0%
2.0%
1.0%
0%
2005
2006
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013(f)
Source: Conference Board of Canada: Metropolitan Outlook Spring 2013
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ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
ISSUES AND TRENDS
Inflation
Municipal governments are under considerable pressure to relate their spending and taxation levels to the cost of inflation, yet each
municipal government’s experience with inflation can differ greatly from a national average. The most widely applied measure of inflation in
Canada is the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
The CPI measures the price changes for common household purchases, such as food, shelter, clothing, household operations, and
furnishings; these are items that a municipal government typically does not purchase to provide programs and services to its citizens.
However, given the CPI’s pervasive use in setting cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs), it can be the appropriate metric when calculating the
rate of consumer inflation at the national level.
Consumer Price Index Change by City (August 2012 to August 2013)
3.0%
2.7%
2.5%
2.0%
1.7%
1.6%
1.5%
1.1%
1.0%
1.4%
1.2%
1.2%
0.9%
0.8%
0.5%
0.1%
0.0%
Halifax
Montreal
Ottawa
Toronto
Winnipeg
Regina
Saskatoon
Edmonton
Calgary
Vancouver
Source: Statistics Canada, August 2013
The CPI is a useful proxy for cost inflation in general as it is a well-known statistic and is produced monthly by an independent source
(Statistics Canada). However, extending the use of the CPI into discussions on the appropriate level of property tax or fee increases for a
municipal government becomes problematic because:
< A municipal government’s actual experience with inflation often differs greatly from CPI.
< The “basket of goods” that is consumed by a municipality as compared to an individual or a household is different. For this
reason, the Consumer Price Index is not a good indicator.
Generally, this is because the largest expenditures for governments are typically labour, construction materials, and contractual services,
which are substantially different factors than those found in the CPI.
For the City of Saskatoon, inflation can be described as the increase in the cost of goods and services that are normally purchased by the
City to provide vital programs and services to the citizens of Saskatoon. In other words, inflation is a function of the increase (or decrease)
in costs to provide such programs and services as:
< Transportation Services: roads, streets, sidewalks, public transportation
< Utilities: water, wastewater, storm water, solid waste
< Community Support and Recreation Services: parks, recreation, libraries, museums, social services, sport and culture
< Protective Services: fire, police, bylaw enforcement
< Planning and Development: economic, land use, building standards
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
5
ISSUES AND TRENDS
As such, municipal governments have their own spending patterns and cost profiles that are different than other economic sectors. A price
index that does not reflect the municipal purchasing structure is incapable of truly reflecting the changes in the purchasing power of local
governments such as the City of Saskatoon.
To better understand and communicate the true inflationary pressures on municipal budgets, the City of Saskatoon has followed the
trend of other municipalities and has developed a Municipal Price Index (or Municipal Cost Index). There are two main parts to the
MPI calculation: 1) weightings of the expenditure categories (showing the relative importance of items in the index); and 2) the inflation
factor used for each component. The weightings for Saskatoon’s MPI are based on the approved operating budget and include such
categories as:
< wages and benefits
< professional and contracted services
< construction materials and commodities
< capital and equipment purchases
<utilities
< land costs
< debt service charges
An MPI for the City of Saskatoon has been calculated to be used for future budgeting benchmarks and will be reviewed annually.
Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
In Canada, and throughout the world, economic output is measured by GDP. GDP is the value of all goods and services produced in a
country in a calendar year. The gross domestic product includes only final goods and services, not goods and services used to make
another product. Changes in the GDP are an indication of economic output. At year end 2012, the total value of GDP for the Saskatoon
region was $15.46 billion.
According to forecasts by the Conference Board of Canada November 2013, Saskatoon is expected to lead the country in GDP growth
by 5.2 per cent.
Projected Saskatoon Real GDP Growth vs. Eastern Cities, 2013
0.0
Ottawa-Gatineau
Montréal
Halifax
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
6.0
1.3
1.7
2.3
5.2
Saskatoon
Toronto
Hamilton
5.0
2.8
2.3
Source: Conference Board of Canada, November 2013
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ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
ISSUES AND TRENDS
Projected Saskatoon Real GDP Growth vs. Western Cities, 2013
0.0
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
3.2
Edmonton
3.3
Calgary
3.5
Regina
2.9
Vancouver
5.2
Saskatoon
2.0
Winnipeg
1.8
Victoria
Source: Conference Board of Canada, November 2013
Since 2008, Saskatoon’s GDP has grown by an average of 3.7% annually, and this includes one year of negative growth, impacted by the
global economic downturn.
Saskatoon Annual Real GDP Growth 2008-2014(f)
6.0
5.8%
5.7%
5.7%
5.2%
5.0
4.1%
4.0
3.5%
3.0
2.0
1.0
-2.7%
0.0
-1.0
-2.0
-3.0
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013(f)
2014(f)
Source: Conference Board of Canada, November 2013
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
7
ISSUES AND TRENDS
Retail Sales
Saskatoon is expected to see positive retail sales growth. Retail sales information provides a measure of the health and performance of
the retail trade sector. As an important industry in the Canadian economy, governments are able to better determine the overall health of
the economy and understand the important role that retailers have in the economy.
Retail Sales Growth in Saskatoon 2012-2017(f)
6.0
5.2
5.2
5.3
4.7
5.0
4.4
4.1
4.0
3.0
2.0
1.0
0.0
2012
2013(f)
2014(f)
2015(f)
2016(f)
2017(f)
Source: Conference Board of Canada - Spring 2013 Outlook
Disposable Income
Personal disposable income growth in Saskatoon is also expected to rise over the next two years, although at a much slower pace than
witnessed in 2007 and 2008. Personal disposable income is the amount left over after payment of personal direct taxes, including income
taxes, contributions to social insurance plans (such as the Canada Pension Plan and Employment Insurance) and other fees. It is a
measure of the funds available for personal expenditures on goods and services and personal savings for investments as well as personal
transfers to other sectors of the economy.
Disposable Income Growth in Saskatoon 2006-2013(f)
12.0
11.03
11.0
9.47
10.0
9.0
8.0
7.79
7.17
7.0
5.93
6.0
5.58
5.57
2012(f)
2013(f)
4.62
5.0
4.0
3.0
2.0
1.0
0.0
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
Source: Conference Board of Canada, November 8, 2012 presentation
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ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
ISSUES AND TRENDS
Housing Sales versus Price Increases
Housing sales have remained strong in Saskatoon since 2011, hovering around 5,100 each year. Housing sales to the end of August 2012
were virtually on par with levels from a year ago; it is expected that existing home sales will total 5,300 units in 2013. A slightly higher level
of 5,400 sales is projected for next year.
Saskatoon Housing Sales vs Price Increases 2010-2014(f)
6,000
5,462
5,300
5,183
10
5,400
5,000
3,574
Sales
6.2
6
4.8
3,000
4
2,000
2.9
2.5
1.7
1,000
Price Increase (%)
4,000
8
2
0
0
2010
2011
2012
2013(f)
2014(f)
Source: CMHC - Housing Market Outlook
Housing Starts in the Saskatoon CMA
Multi-family
4,000
3,753
3,412
3,500
2,994
3,000
2,500
Single-detached
2,912
2,771
2,646
2,631
2016(f)
2017(f)
2,381
2,000
1,500
1,000
500
0
2010
2011
2012
2013(f)
2014(f)
2015(f)
Source: Conference Board Canada: Metropolitan Outlook Spring 2013
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
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ISSUES AND TRENDS
Building Permits
For cities, a good indicator of economic activity is the number of building permits issued each year. In 2012, the City of Saskatoon
issued more than 5,196 building permits, once again, breaking all previous records. The value of the building permits issued in 2012
was $1,082,100,000; a 15% change over 2011. Continuing on this upward trend, the value of the business permits as of November
2013 is $1,008,599,000.
Building Permits Issued by the City of Saskatoon 2008-2013
2,000.0
6,000
5,196
4,651
4,562
4,100
4,000
3,243
3,325
$1,082.1
$936.9
3,000
2,000
$1,500.0
$1,000.0
$1,008.6
Value (in millions)
5,000
$666.1
$500.0
1,000
0
0
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
(Jan-Nov)
Source: City of Saskatoon, Building Standards Branch
Construction activity in Saskatoon continued this trend in 2012. Both the number of permits and the construction value to the end of the
third quarter exceeded those in 2011. What makes this quite notable is that only five projects exceeded $10 million in construction value.
Many of the permits issued were for new one and two unit dwellings.
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ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
ISSUES AND TRENDS
Business Licenses
In 2012, the City issued 1,299 new business licences (472 commercial, and 827 home-based businesses). The total number of businesses
licensed has increased by more than 11% since 2007. New business creation continues to be strong in the city, reinforcing job growth and
strong economic activity.
City of Saskatoon Business Licenses Issued 2008-2012
New Commercial / Industrial Businesses
900
800
New Home-Based Businesses
838
827
798
756
690
700
600
500
472
416
400
352
396
368
300
200
100
0
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
Source: City of Saskatoon, Business License Program, “Business Profile - Annual Report 2012”
Social Trends and Issues
While population and various economic growth indicators are important in determining the level of economic activity in Saskatoon, the City
of Saskatoon also realizes that these are not the only factors that have an impact on the programs and services that the City provides to
its citizens. Civic programs contribute to the overall quality of life experienced by citizens by providing safety services, infrastructure, and
recreational activities.
Crime and Public Safety
The City of Saskatoon has increased the police budget in recent years to support the Saskatoon Police Service in reducing crime in the
community. This investment is paying off. The “perception” of serious crime has improved over the past decade; fewer people rate their
safety from serious crime as poor or fair. In 2012, actual reported incidents of serious crime on both per capita and absolute scales has
fallen to its lowest point in the last decade.
In contrast to crimes against the person, there was an increase in the total number of crimes against property between 2008 and 2009
of 5% and of 3% from 2010 to 2011. In 2012, total crimes against the person was down 8% as compared to 2011. However, since 2008,
property crimes decreased by 12%; since 2011, property crimes have decreased by 9%.
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
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ISSUES AND TRENDS
Crimes Against the Person in Saskatoon 2008-2012
6,000
4,513
4,231
4,288
4,062
3,742
4,000
2,000
0
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
Source: Saskatoon Police Service - Year End Summary Report 2012
In contrast to crimes against the person, there was an increase in the total number of crimes against property between 2008 and 2009 of
4%. However, since 2007, property crimes have decreased by 19%.
Crimes Against Property in Saskatoon 2008-2012
20,000
15,000
14,991
15,736
13,893
14,359
13,153
10,000
5,000
0
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
Source: Saskatoon Police Service - Year End Summary Report 2012
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ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
ISSUES AND TRENDS
Housing Affordability
Housing prices continue to increase. Since 2006, as shown in the following chart, the median price of a home has grown faster than
the median income, resulting in an erosion of housing affordability. The Median Multiple is a measure of affordability. It is the ratio of
the median income to median house price. The following chart can be read as “in 2012, the median house price was 5.30 times the
median income”.
Median Multiple Housing Affordability Index
Generation 5 Estimates
2006 Census
Statistics Canada: National Household Survey 2011
6.00
5.00
4.00
4.64
4.76
4.71
2008
2009
5.00
5.10
5.30
4.80
3.60
3.04
3.00
2.00
1.00
0.00
2006
2007
2010
2011
2012
Source: Statistics Canada, G5, and City of Saskatoon
Note: Historically, an index value of 3.0 has been considered to be “affordable”
Although housing is not a traditional responsibility of the City of Saskatoon, the City is aware of the impacts that the lack of affordable
housing has on individuals, families, the economy, and the community. As a result, the City of Saskatoon has adopted an innovative
Housing Business Plan to help encourage the building of more affordable housing in the city. This Business Plan seeks to define where
the City can be more effective in serving the community to meet the pressing need for affordable and entry-level housing. Funding for the
Housing Business Plan was committed at $2.5 million per year until the end of 2012.
Immigration Trends
The number of newcomers to Saskatoon has increased astoundingly in recent years; according to Statistics Canada, Saskatchewan
attracted approximately 370% more newcomers since 2006-2007. As Saskatoon’s economy continues to grow, the City anticipates that
more and more new newcomers will be moving to Saskatoon. Although immigration is a federal and provincial responsibility, the City of
Saskatoon does play a role in providing support services to newcomers. The following graph suggests that over 6,000 newcomers have
settled in the Saskatoon region in the last two years.
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
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ISSUES AND TRENDS
Immigration: Saskatoon & Regina CMAs, Other Saskatchewan, 2006-2012
Regina CMA
Saskatoon CMA
Other SK
6,068
7,000
4,750
6,000
2010-11
2,924
2,607
2,942
1,998
2009-10
220
194
1,000
839
1,290
966
2,000
1,338
3,000
2,223
2,759
4,000
2,563
2,946
1,809
3,485
5,000
0
2006-07
2007-08
2008-09
2011-12
Source: Statistics Canada: National Household Survey 2011
Urban Aboriginal Population
The Aboriginal population is growing at a faster rate than the total population, due in part to a birth rate about 1.5 times the national
average, and increasing numbers of people identifying themselves as Aboriginal. First Nations people comprise the majority (60%) of the
Aboriginal population.
Canadian Urban Aboriginal Populations, 2011 (as % of total population)
0.0
Montreal
1.0
3.0
Edmonton
5.0
6.0
7.0
8.0
9.0
10.0
11.0
12.0
2.1
0.7
2.7
Calgary
Vancouver
4.0
0.6
Ottawa
Toronto
2.0
2.0
5.3
9.9
Regina
9.8
Saskatoon
11.1
Winnipeg
Source: Statistics Canada: National Household Survey 2011
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ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
ISSUES AND TRENDS
Aging Population
According to Statistics Canada, Saskatoon had the youngest median age of any CMA in 2011 at 35.9. This compares to Canada’s median
age at 39.9. The aging of Saskatoon’s population over the next 15 years will see the proportion of the population of labour force age (1564) fall from 64.4% currently to 61.3% in 2026, and the seniors proportion rise from 11.4% to 15%.
Saskatoon: Age Demographic as % of Total Population, 2012-2032
41.6
41.6
41.0
40.1
37.8
50.0%
40.0%
17.7
17.1
15.2
13.5
12.7
30.0%
11.4
10.6
10.4
11.1
11.2
20.0%
10.0%
6.2
5.8
6.2
5.8
6.4
4.6
5.0
5.0
5.1
6.2
0.0%
Preschool
Children
(0-4 years)
19.5
20.1
22.1
24.2
25.6
Elementary
School
(5-14 years)
High
School
(15-19 years)
Young Labour
Force
(20-44 years)
Older Labour
Force
(45-64 years)
2032
2027
2022
2017
2012
Seniors
(65+ years)
Source: City of Saskatoon & Saskatoon Census Metropolitan Area Population Projection 2012-2032 (Using Medium (2.5%) Growth Model)
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
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ISSUES AND TRENDS
Low-Income Saskatonians
In Saskatoon, the number of low-income families dropped between 1991 and 2011. Nonetheless, close to one in five children in Saskatoon
lives in poverty.
Incidence of Low-Income Among Saskatoon Families
20.0%
Census 2006
Statistics Canada: National Household Survey 2011
17.2%
14.4%
14.0%
12.2%
10.0%
0.0%
1996
2001
2006
2011
Source: Statistics Canada, Census 1996-2006; Statistics Canada: National Household Survey 2011
Proportion of Children in Low-Income Cut-Off Families in Saskatoon
30.0%
30.0%
Census 2006
Statistics Canada: National Household Survey 2011
25.0%
24.0%
18.5%
15.0%
0.0%
1996
2001
2006
2011
Source: Statistics Canada, Census 1996-2006; Statistics Canada: National Household Survey 2011
Income distribution and support programs for low-income persons are not deemed to be a traditional role or responsibility for municipal
governments. However, the City of Saskatoon does provide various programs to help low-income individuals and families access key
programs and services. For example, the City offers low-income transit and recreation passes to ensure that low-income residents can
have access to these important services.
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ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
ISSUES AND TRENDS
Environmental Trends and Issues
The citizens of Saskatoon value a healthy environment, including parks and open spaces, clean air, and safe drinking water. But as the city
continues to grow, there will be corresponding pressures on these resources. For example, the city will have to find ways to address the
pressures of:
< increasing park usage
< increasing water consumption
< rising greenhouse gas emissions
< more waste generation
< more absorption of available land to accommodate new industrial and residential developments
Modes of Transportation
Like most Canadian cities, the primary mode of transportation for Saskatoon commuters is the personal vehicle. The following chart shows
that 86% of commuters use the automobile, as drivers or passengers, as their primary mode of transportation.
How People Get to Work in Saskatoon
6%
Car, Truck or Van (as a passenger)
5%
Public Transit
5%
80%
Pedestrian
2%
Car, Truck or Van (as a driver)
Cycling
2%
Other
Source: Statistics Canada: National Household Survey 2011
This reliance on the automobile obviously creates not only pressures on the environment, but it also creates pressures on the City’s
transportation costs, both capital and operating.
Public Transit Ridership
It is well documented that increased usage of public transit has a positive impact on the environment, as it helps to reduce the amount of
greenhouse gas emissions produced in a particular community. According to Transport Canada, public transit offers many benefits:
< It offers the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and smog in urban areas by improving services and offering
Canadians greater flexibility in their transportation options.
< Investments make public transit more attractive and can induce a shift from auto travel to more fuel-efficient and
cost-effective transit.
< Increased use of public transit can lead to a reduction of congestion levels, further improving energy use and
air quality.
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
17
ISSUES AND TRENDS
In order to realize these benefits, the City of Saskatoon will continue working to make transit a more convenient and reliable transportation
option in 2013.
Despite the reliance on the automobile in Saskatoon, transit ridership has been steadily increasing in Saskatoon. A number of initiatives
are planned to make taking the bus more attractive. In 2013 Saskatoon Transit introduced ‘Direct’ routes, an express service to get people
from outer lying neighbourhoods to their destination quickly and conveniently and in 2014 GPS capability will be installed in the entire fleet
meaning citizens and visitors will be able to track their bus online in real time. The trip planning software will also get a complete overhaul
with this upgrade. In addition, the Transit Bus Eco-pass program gained further interest in 2012 as five new businesses signed on to the
program. This program provides employers with a discounted bus pass for their employees, and the cost is shared between Saskatoon
Transit and the employer.
In 2012, Saskatoon Transit had 12,777,458 passenger trips, over a 20% increase in ridership since 2007 (10,598,353).
Transit Ridership in Saskatoon 2008-2012
14,000,000
12,329,979
12,000,000
11,141,672
11,579,606
11,564,858
2009
2010
12,777,458
10,000,000
8,000,000
6,000,000
4,000,000
2,000,000
0
2008
2011
2012
Source: Saskatoon Transit Annual Report, 2012
Ecological Footprint
As a city grows, it needs to acquire more land to accommodate new businesses and residents. However, the expanding geographic size of
a city increases its ecological footprint. The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) defines an ecological footprint as:
“…a measure of the demands humans place on nature. It shows how much biologically productive land and
water we occupy to produce all the resources we consume and to absorb our waste. By measuring the present
footprint, and then calculating the footprints for various household lifestyle or government policy options,
more efficient ways of meeting human needs can be evaluated and implemented.”
According to FCM’s 2006 analysis of ecological footprints of major Canadian cities and regions, Calgary and Edmonton had the highest
municipal footprints. Saskatoon was on par with the national average. A growing ecological footprint obviously has an impact on
environmental sustainability and increases the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced in a community.
18
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
ISSUES AND TRENDS
Ecological Footprint - Saskatoon and the World (gha - Global Hectare)
0.0
2.0
4.0
6.0
8.0
10.0
12.0
10.7
United Arab Emirates
8.0
United States
7.9
North America
7.3
Saskatoon
7.1
Canada
6.1
High Income Countries
Europe
4.7
Japan
4.7
World Average
2.7
China
2.2
Source: City of Saskatoon Ecological Footprint Analysis, 2011
Population Density
One important way that cities can reduce their ecological footprints is by achieving greater population density targets. Population density
is typically defined as the number of persons per square kilometre in a particular geographic area. Saskatoon has a low population density
when compared with other major cities.
Contributing to this low density is the fact that Saskatoon added 40 square kilometres in 2010. This new land is expected to allow the
City to grow to a population of 500,000. In addition, with the development of higher density targets in new neighbourhoods and new infill
development in more established neighbourhoods, this number will undoubtedly improve in future years.
Population Density - Residents per Acre
25.0
21.2
20.0
15.0
10.0
5.4
5.4
5.3
Calgary
Regina
Saskatoon
5.0
0.0
Vancouver
Source: Based on Statistics Canada, Census 2011 Population Figures
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
19
ISSUES AND TRENDS
Waste Diversion
The City of Saskatoon’s waste diversion initiatives direct materials that have value or purpose away from the landfill. Recycling and
composting are examples of waste diversion programs that provide significant benefit to the community and region. There are many
benefits of waste diversion:
> Recycling uses less energy than disposal in a landfill, and manufacturing with recycled materials is more energy efficient than
with virgin materials.
> The greenhouse gas emissions generated by the landfill are reduced.
> Landfill airspace is preserved to avoid the need for a landfill.
> Reuse and recycling conserve resources.
Currently, the waste diversion rate for Saskatoon is 28.5% and the City diverts approximately 30,000 tonnes of materials from its landfill
through the programs highlighted in the figure below. This number is expected to increase substantially in future years, as the City
continues to expand, develop, and communicate waste diversion strategies and programs.
Organics and Recycling Trends - Municipal Programs Only 2006-2013(f)
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013(f)
45
2,209
1,583
16,055
17,000
15,810
16,553
17,160
6,571
7,239
7,258
7,542
7,675
7,828
7,984
8,150
Leaves Grass Subscription Program
99
144
309
530
748
840
995
840
Parks
28
419
835
841
980
1,350
952
1,000
Backyard Composters
150
150
157
157
160
160
160
160
Christmas Trees
167
104
104
94
98
115
101
105
Steel Cans
71
71
77
83
87
79
72
40
Landfill Drop-off
935
1,405
799
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
24
50
0
0
0
241
474
28
10,000
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
12,000
8,065
11,983
11,596
25,354
36,798
26,182
26,817
39,455
Residential/Commercial Compost Depot Drop-off
Fibre
Industrial/Commercial Bulk Sources
Infrastructure Services
Curbside Recyclables (mixed)
TOTAL
Source: City of Saskatoon
Air Quality
Poor air quality has been linked to a number of health concerns in humans, ranging from eye and nose irritation to severe respiratory
problems including lung cancer. Carbon monoxide or CO, is one of the common airborne contaminants in the air we breathe. Average
concentrations of CO can fluctuate from year-to-year, as indicated in the figure below. CO along with fine particulate matter, nitrogen
dioxide, ground-level ozone, and sulphur dioxide are used by the province’s Ministry of Environment to calculate the Air Quality Index.
Saskatoon has maintained a Good rating on this index from 2000-2012.
20
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
ISSUES AND TRENDS
Historical Air Quality Measures in Saskatoon
0.50
0.46
Average Concentration of CO (ppm)
0.45
0.40
0.35
0.30
0.29
0.26
0.30
0.25
0.25
0.25
0.22
0.18
0.20
0.17
0.19
0.13
0.15
0.10
0.05
0.00
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
Source: Province of Saskatchewan
Daily Water Consumption
Another key environmental trend is the amount of water consumed in a community. Treatment and distribution of water require huge
inputs of energy, corresponding to greenhouse gas emissions. These impacts in addition to the demands on the City’s water and
wastewater infrastructure are significant. In response, the City recently launched its ‘Be Water Wise’ campaign, as an educational tool to
conserve water use by the residential sector.
Total water sales in 2012 were 34.9 million cubic metres, a slight drop in volume from the previous five-year average of 36.0 million
cubic metres. However, water use is sensitive to weather conditions, with years of relatively high precipitation rates, such as 2012,
corresponding to reductions in water used for residential and commercial irrigation.
Daily Domestic Water Consumption in Saskatoon
600
500
462
448
411
387
(L/capita/day)
400
404
300
200
100
0
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
Source: City of Saskatoon and SaskWater
With respect to the 2010 and 2011 results, it is recognized that climate conditions contributed significantly to the water consumption
reduction as rainfall in 2010 and 2011 was above average.
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
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ISSUES AND TRENDS
2013 Input by the Citizens of Saskatoon
In order to ensure that the City of Saskatoon is dedicating its resources to the programs and services that citizens want, the City actively
seeks input from the people it serves. One method the City utilizes to accomplish this is by conducting a formal, random survey of its
citizens.
In the spring of 2013, the City of Saskatoon engaged Insightrix Research Inc. to conduct an annual Civic Services Survey. Between May
21st and June 7th, 2013 a total of 500 randomly selected households participated in the survey via telephone, and 813 respondents
participated online.
The primary purpose of this survey was to gauge the opinion of the citizens of Saskatoon on a variety of issues including their perceptions
about the quality of life in our city, and the various types and levels of service they receive from the City of Saskatoon. The survey results
assist the Administration and City Council in making key budgetary and public policy decisions about the types and levels of services that
the City of Saskatoon provides to its residents. The key results from this survey are as follows.
Current Perceived Quality of Life in 2013
Overall, the vast majority of respondents (phone: 90.4%, online: 85.5%) rate the quality of life in Saskatoon as either good or very good.
Less than one in ten rate the quality of life as fair (phone: 8.0%, online 13.3%), and a very small proportion (phone: 1.4%, online: 1.2%)
rate it as either poor or very poor.
Telphone
60.0%
Online
55.6%
52.0%
50.0%
38.4%
40.0%
29.9%
30.0%
20.0%
13.3%
8.0%
10.0%
0.6%
0.0%
0.1%
Very Poor
22
0.8%
1.1%
Poor
Fair
Good
Very Good
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
ISSUES AND TRENDS
Overall Satisfaction With Civic Services in 2013
A strong majority of respondents are either satisfied or very satisfied (phone: 82.9%, online: 73.0%) with the overall level of services
provided by the City of Saskatoon. Note that the largest proportion of respondents is satisfied (phone: 73.3%, online: 67.5%) as opposed
to very satisfied (phone: 9.6%, online: 5.5%), suggesting that these residents can identify some areas for improvement. Fewer respondents
report not being satisfied (phone: 17.1%, online: 27.0%).
100.0%
Telphone
80.0%
Online
73.3%
67.5%
60.0%
40.0%
22.3%
20.0%
13.1%
4.0%
9.6%
4.7%
5.5%
0.0%
Very Unsatisfied
Unsatisfied
Satisfied
Very Satisfied
Importance of Specific Civic Services in 2013
Respondents were asked to rate the importance of a wide range of civic services available to citizens using a scale from one to ten, where
one means that the service is not at all important and should not be given top priority, and ten means the service is extremely important
and should be given top priority. A five means the service is neither important nor unimportant. For ease of reporting, these services have
been coded for the City by department.
Similar to the previous wave of the study, the services that respondents rated highest in terms of importance include the quality of drinking
water, the maintenance of major roadways and freeways in the city, the repair of water main breaks, fire protection services and police
services. For the most part, results are more or less consistent between phone and online respondents.
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
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ISSUES AND TRENDS
What Are the Most Important Civic Services to the Residents of Saskatoon in 2013?
Telephone
4.0
Online
6.0
8.0
10.0
Quality of drinking water
Maintenance of major roadways and freeways
Repair of water main breaks
Fire protection services
Police services
Electrical services reliability *
Treatment of sewage
8.4
Traffic management
8.5
Ice and snow management
8.4
Planning and development of the city
8.3
Street maintenance in your neighborhood
8.2
Garbage collection
7.5
Mosquito control
Maintenance of city parks
7.1
Sidewalk maintenance in your neighborhood
Public transportation, that is buses and bus routes
7.0
Parking
7.0
Accessibility of city parks
Funding for community service organizations
6.9
Maintenance of city trees
Bylaw enforcement
7.0
Control of dangerous and nuisance animals
6.9
7.0
6.9
7.0
6.7
6.8
Indoor pools/community centres
Customer service
6.1
Maintenance of back lanes
5.8
Online Services
Outdoor swimming pools
Funding for arts and cultural groups
Ice rinks
4.7
4.6
5.9
5.8
5.9
5.8
8.8
8.6
8.5
8.5
7.6
7.2
Landfill services
8.8
7.9
7.6
7.8
7.5
7.8
Recycling initiatives
Golf courses
9.0
9.2
8.8
9.1
9.1
9.1
9.0
9.0
8.6
8.9
8.7
8.9
9.4
9.5
7.6
7.5
7.5
7.2
7.4
7.5
7.4
7.4
7.3
6.6
6.4
6.2
6.4
*Exclude households that have SaskPower as their electricity provider.
24
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
ISSUES AND TRENDS
Assessment of City’s Performance Delivering Civic Services in 2013
In addition to rating civic services by importance, respondents were also asked to rate them according to how well they believe the City
is doing in delivering the services. The services that respondents rate highest include the quality of the drinking water, fire protection
services, and reliability of electrical services.
Telephone
4.0
Online
6.0
8.0
Quality of drinking water
Fire protection services
Electrical services reliability *
Treatment of sewage
Garbage collection
7.5
Police services
Accessibility of city parks
7.2
Recycling initiatives
7.1
7.2
7.1
Indoor pools/community centres
6.7
Golf courses
Repair of water main breaks
6.9
6.9
6.9
Landfill services
Maintenance of city parks
Maintenance of city trees
Outdoor swimming pools
Control of dangerous and nuisance animals
6.3
Ice rinks
8.4
8.4
8.5
8.3
8.4
8.2
7.8
7.5
7.2
7.1
6.9
7.0
6.8
6.6
6.6
6.8
6.6
6.6
6.6
6.5
6.8
6.4
Online Services
Customer services
Funding for arts and cultural groups
Bylaw enforcement
Funding for community service organizations
Public transportation, that is buses and bus routes
5.6
5.6
5.5
5.8
5.4
5.4
5.2
5.6
5.1
5.4
5.1
5.3
5.0
5.3
4.9
5.1
Mosquito control
Sidewalk maintenance in your neighborhood
Parking
Planning and development of the city
Street maintenance in your neighborhood
Maintenance of back lanes
Traffic management
Maintenance of major roadways and freeways
Ice and snow management
7.0
7.5
7.5
7.8
7.8
7.9
10.0
4.4
6.0
6.1
6.2
6.1
6.1
6.0
6.2
4.6
4.7
*Exclude households that have SaskPower as their electricity provider.
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014
25
ISSUES AND TRENDS
Most Important Issue Facing Saskatoon in 2013
While respondents list a wide variety of issues that they feel should receive the greatest attention, the issues most
commonly cited by respondents as the biggest issues facing the City of Saskatoon include road conditions (phone: 35.6%,
online: 30.8%), traffic flow/congestion (phone: 13.0%, online: 14.6%), and planning for city development (phone: 10.6%,
online: 13.4%). All other issues were indicated as most important by one in ten or fewer respondents.
Telephone
0%
10%
20%
Roads
13.0
Traffic flow/congestion
10.6
Planning for city growth/development
3.6
Housing
4.2
Taxation/spending
3.2
Social Issues
2.0
Transit service
Provision of municipal services
Economy
Environment/pollution
Employment/job opportunities
Education
Garbage pick-up/recycling
0.2
1.4
0.6
1.0
0.4
0.7
1.4
0.6
0.6
0.1
Other
Don’t know/No comment
26
0.7
40%
30.8
35.6
14.6
13.4
8.6
4.4
Crime/policing
30%
9.2
4.6
Infrastructure/maintenance-general
Online
8.1
5.8
5.0
3.7
3.2
2.5
2.8
3.2
7.6
ISSUES & TRENDS IMPACTING THE CITY OF SASKATOON 2013-2014