Dear City of Regina Mayor and Councillors,

I am writing to voice my concern over a potential forecasted cut of 18.5% to operating funds or a negative 5% mill rate in the proposed 2026-2027 Regina budget. If Council approves these measures, it will cripple Recreation and Cultural Services, among other City areas.  

Consider this letter as opposition to the potential closure of the Cathedral Neighbourhood Centre, the Neil Balkwill Civic Arts Centre, and the reduction or elimination of grants dedicated to community associations, cultural events, and the Cathedral Village Arts Festival specifically.

Appendix M-13 contains many measures which should not be under any consideration as they compromise services to recreational & cultural, transit, fire, Community Investments & Grant Program, parks & open spaces.

The closure of the Cathedral Neighbourhood Centre would severely restrict the activities of the Community Association and deprive residents of a central public space for programs, meetings, church worship and other activities.

Reduced funding for Operating Grants and Zone Boards is also being proposed, which may affect many programs such as children’s soccer and the management of the Senior Centres and 5 Community Operated Centres. 

The annual Arts Festival which attracts 50,000 people over a week would be compromised. It is the last arts and music festival in Regina and attracts business and the public across southern Saskatchewan.

Recreational and cultural expenditure helps make Regina an enjoyable, safe, city where residents can relax, explore new recreational opportunities or learn new techniques, things  that improve their quality of life. These cuts would endanger our way of life.

Together, these funds also generate meaningful economic returns to the local community and the City at large. The Cathedral Village Arts Festival attracts tens of thousands of visitors to the neighbourhood. All of the programming is free of charge and accessible to all. Festival patrons come to see live music, purchase food and other goods from local vendors, and to shop at local businesses. The City would be wise to request that Economic Development Regina utilize its resources and expertise to calculate the social and economic benefits of this and other municipally funded festivals that take place throughout the year.

I respectively ask that you consider the ramifications of approving the motion and vote to preserve cultural funding and community spaces in this budget.