MOOSE JAW — Local business leaders gathered recently at the Hillcrest Golf Club for the latest “Pancakes and Politics” event, where Moose Jaw’s mayor James Murdock addressed key municipal issues and engaged in an open discussion with attendees.
Hosted by the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce, the breakfast event provided a platform for business owners and community members from all walks of life to ask questions and gain insights into the city’s priorities, challenges, and future plans.
Topics ranged from infrastructure development to economic growth, as well as concerns about vacant buildings and homelessness in the city.
One key discussion focused on the city’s role in addressing homelessness. Murdock emphasized the importance of working alongside provincial partners to tackle the issue, noting that municipal budgets are limited.
“If we pull dollars from current budget needs… other aspects of running the city would suffer because we’re limited,” Murdock explained at the event. “That’s why it’s important to form… strong friendships and partnerships with the province, so that we can work together to solve issues that are larger than… one municipality can take on (by itself).”
Another topic of interest was the city’s efforts to attract businesses and fill vacant commercial properties. Murdock acknowledged concerns about empty buildings, including the former Canadian Tire and Ross School sites, suggesting that the city could explore ways to promote available properties to investors.
Craig Hemingway, the city’s director of strategic growth, added that Moose Jaw has already taken steps to market available properties, such as advertising in the Western Investor publication and using online platforms to showcase opportunities.
A successful event
Immediately following the talk, Murdock expressed satisfaction with the turnout and the quality of discussions.
“This is just a good group of local business leaders… who are proud to call Moose Jaw home, and who just truly want the best for the city and (to move) things forward,” he said. “It’s just good to have… (these) open conversations.”
Murdock also noted the benefits of an early morning format, hinting at the possibility of holding similar gatherings in the future.
“When you have (around) 60 people who came out, you know, I think the morning works. That’s maybe something we will continue to move forward… in a town hall type environment,” Murdock said.
Flat Bishop makes a special guest appearance
Before wrapping up, Murdock shared a lighthearted moment involving a special guest — Flat Bishop, a paper figure sent by a young student from Vancouver, B.C. The figure is part of a school project inspired by Flat Stanley, a children’s book character who travels the world by mail.
“In class, I have been learning and researching about Saskatchewan,” Murdock read from the student’s letter. “I would love it if you could take Flat Bishop on a tour of your city.”
Murdock enthusiastically accepted the challenge, adding that Flat Bishop has already begun its adventure around Moose Jaw, attending various events and making appearances with local organizations. When the adventure is concluded — with a Wednesday, April 30 deadline — Murdock will send the paper traveller back home, complete with a large photo album.
For more information or to inquire about similar upcoming events, contact the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce at 306-692-6414 or visit MJChamber.com.
