‘Only getting stronger’: Regina mayor at State of City address

Regina’s Mayor Chad Bachynski gave an optimistic outlook on the Queen City during the 57th annual State of the City address.

He praised Regina as a vibrant and affordable city and said it carried a competitive advantage.

“It’s strong and it’s only getting stronger,” he told reporters afterward.

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Though he emphasized many of the city’s positive qualities, Bachynski said there is still room for improvement in addressing homelessness, public safety and attracting talent and business.

To help promote Regina, Bachynski announced the launch of two new initiatives in partnership with Economic Development Regina.

First is ‘The Regina 25,‘ which is about promoting 25 local figures “who dare to grow, inspire and lay the foundation for our city’s future.”

People can be nominated in five different categories and winners will be announced on April 10.

Mayor Chad Bachynski said he was exploring options on expanding construction hours for certain projects — one of his campaign goals. (Daniel Reech/980 CJME)

The mayor also announced a campaign to recruit talent to Regina aided by the new ‘Live in Regina’ website.

“We’ve spent 18 months doing the work and the research to make sure that we understood what the motivation might be, what is Regina’s value proposition and then how do we get it in front of the right people at the right time,” said Chris Lane, president and CEO of Economic Development Regina.

Lane said he was excited to try to draw people to the Queen City and also celebrate its existing residents.

“We’re looking for ways to celebrate what’s great about Regina and one of the greatest things about Regina is always its people,” Lane said. “It gives the community permission to celebrate their neighbour or their friend or their co-worker and it’s one of those things that’s part of the fabric of what makes the city great.”

Bachynski said Regina has to meet the needs of its citizens as it grows in size and complexity.

He said he wanted to ensure taxpayers are getting the value for their dollar and wants to prioritize essential services.

Bachynski said he is working closely with city administration to explore options on expanded hours and nighttime hours for certain construction projects to move them along faster, which was an issue he campaigned on.

“I know personally that construction is always top of mind and can be a pain point for residents. I feel that and I get it,” the mayor said during the speech.

“It can be very impactful to our commutes and our business. I thank everyone for their patience and understanding. Unlike some cities, we only have about five months of good weather to complete the many important construction projects.”