Carter Haydu; Moose Jaw Times Herald (Jan 28, 2009)

Moose Jaw’s top politician is optimistic the federal Conservative’s deficit budget will stimulate the local economy and improve infrastructure.

Tuesday’s budget offered $500 million over two years to refurbish old recreational facilities and build new ones.  That was just a portion of the nearly $12 billion the government agreed to pump into infrastructure projects in an effort to pump up the economy and save jobs.

Mayor Dale McBain said these commitments are very encouraging for a city seeking federal multiplex funding.  He added it’s important the Feb. 25 referendum is approved, while the city continues to seek $15 million funding through the Building Canada Fund application.

Regarding other infrastructure benefits for Moose Jaw mentioned in the budget, McBain said the federal government’s construction and renovation incentives would benefit the local workforce and building suppliers.  He added home construction incentives would help with local housing projects such as the one in Westheath.

The federal government is committing $7.8 billion for social housing and private home renovations, including a one-year home renovation tax credit of up to $1,350 per household.

Although he sees the federal budget as positive overall for Moose Jaw, McBain said there were some challenges he sees in the plan as well.  Specifically, much of the $12 billion in infrastructure funding is to be provided on a matching basis.

Therefore, for many of the incentives, Moose Jaw and the province would have to match what the feds put up for cash.  McBain said these types of agreements are always more challenging than ones where the government just gives municipalities money,

However, regarding what the mayor views as budget positives, another $2 billion will be set aside to repair, retrofit and expand facilities on college and university campuses, again with matching funds needed from other partners.  As well, the government is investing $8.3 billion for skills and training, including $1.5 billion in new cash to retain workers.

McBain said those government investments could definitely benefit Moose Jaw’s SIAST Palliser Campus.  “I think that’s a plus.”