We, the undersigned concerned stakeholders assertively present this petition to address the deeply troubling neglect and destruction of the Marquis Downs racetrack and supporting structures, in direct violation of the lease agreement between the City of Saskatoon and Saskatoon Prairieland Exhibition Corporation ("Prairieland"). We demand immediate, resolute action to safeguard these critical assets and ensure their responsible management.

Background

A. The City of Saskatoon rightfully holds ownership of the Lands documented in Schedule "A" of the lease agreement with Saskatoon Prairieland Park Corporation (“Prairieland”). Prairieland, with the City's consent, has operated and promoted specific activities on a section of these Lands since 1911, subject to the provisions of the lease and governed by the laws of the Province of Saskatchewan.

B. The lease agreement distinctly confers upon the City an absolute right of interest in the Lands, including the Development (7.03, 16.01).

C. Provincial legislation, including The Cities Act, 2003, solemnly charges the City with the responsibility to represent the public and to consider the well-being and interests of the city (s. 65, p. 48).

D. The lease agreement provides Prairieland with the privilege of leasing and utilizing the Lands, including the Grandstand and Race Horse Barns (the “Development”).  Under the lease agreement, Prairieland is obligated to keep the Development in good condition and usable for its intended purpose. 

E. This commitment includes maintaining and repairing the structures and ensuring that these repairs meet a standard equal in quality to the original work and material.  Any addition, alteration, or improvement to the Development is subject to the prior written approval of the Council of the City (4.02).

F. The lease further mandates Prairieland to prevent any injury or disfigurement to the Development, which includes the Grandstand and Race Horse Barns (9.01, 9.05, 12.03, 13.01, 13.03).

Urgent Concerns

We, the undersigned, express our profound concern and insist on immediate, unwavering action to address the following distressing issues relating to the lease agreement:

1. Destruction of the Development
We have been made aware of the destructive activities impacting portions of the Development, including, but not limited to, the removal of the racetrack lights and the inside rail, including the posts. The removal of this material was undertaken without prior written approval from the City of Saskatoon. As per the lease, any changes or alterations shall not be made without the approval of the City in writing (9.05). The lights and the rail have been dismantled and the condition is worsening, suggesting that Prairieland is not keeping the structure in good order and that it is not being used for its intended purpose.

2. Neglect of the Grandstand
Neglect of the grandstand, a significant component of the Development, is an affront to the community and a violation of the terms of the lease. We insist that the City demand immediate, comprehensive measures to rectify the neglect, encompassing urgent inspections, essential repairs, and an unequivocal commitment to preserve this invaluable asset (18.02).

3. Neglect of the Race Horse Barns
Equally concerning is the state of disrepair of the Race Horse Barns, a vital component of our equine and agricultural community and protected under the lease (9.05, 12.03, 13.01). The current neglect of these barns jeopardizes our community's livelihood and heritage.

 

Future Plans By Prairieland Not Yet Approved

It has come to our attention that Prairieland plans to submit a concept plan amendment in Q1 of 2024, which may be the final nail in the coffin for this great facility. We believe that the City should consider all interested parties, not just Prairieland, as they have already deprived the agricultural community of the use of this facility and do not appear to be moving in a direction related to ag.

Immediate Action Demanded

We assertively demand the following immediate actions:

1. Immediate Cessation of Destruction:
We insist upon the immediate cessation of all destructive activities affecting the Development. This cessation must endure pending an exhaustive and transparent review process, including all pertinent stakeholders and fortified by the City's prior written consent. 

2. Inspection of Property:
The City is entitled to inspect the Development at any time during usual business hours to ascertain the condition or state of repair and to verify that the lease's provisions are being complied with. Mention the amount of notice (as per the lease).

3. Right of Interest:
We demand that the City uphold the terms of the lease under the provincial act and actively and vigilantly assert its absolute right of interest in the property (7.04). If Prairieland defaults on performing its obligations under the Lease, the City has the right to re-enter the property and relet it to another party.

4. Immediate Repairs to the Grandstand and Race Horse Barns:
We demand the City exercise its right to order Prairieland to make repairs and implement swift measures to address the long-standing neglect and deterioration of the Grandstand and Race Horse Barns. These measures must encompass immediate inspections, essential repairs, and a resolute commitment to safeguarding the taxpayer's assets. According to the lease, Prairieland is required to do all repairs and maintenance that they are covenanted to perform (13.05).

5. City's Vigilant Oversight and Reletting Consideration:
We urgently request that the City seriously consider reletting the property to the Saskatchewan Equine Sport and Agricultural Association (ESAA) on the basis of default by Prairieland, subject to the submission of a business plan. This action must be taken for the benefit of the community and the unwavering preservation of these essential assets.

ESAA's initiative aims to revitalize the facility, create a hub for equine and other agricultural activities in Saskatoon, and return the racetrack and other supporting structures to their intended use. This is a one-of-a-kind facility in Saskatchewan, and its health would positively impact the entire province.

This association is dedicated to the promotion of the health and well-being of Saskatchewan's equine and agricultural industries and will ensure that the heritage buildings will be taken care of far into the future.

Immediate Response Mandated
Considering the gravity and immediacy of these concerns, we require an immediate response outlining the definitive steps the City will undertake to address these issues, protect community assets, and ensure the responsible management and stewardship of the Development.