Candidate Questions - Crystal Froese
1. In 2023, for several reasons, a secondary audit was requested of SAMA. SAMA declined this request. Currently the City and council have chosen to do nothing in regard to this issue.
What are you prepared to do?
In response to SAMA’s refusal of the secondary audit request in 2023, I believe transparency and fairness in property assessment are critical. If elected, I will advocate for continued dialogue with SAMA to address the community's concerns. It’s essential to build a stronger working relationship that serves our residents effectively. Additionally, I’ll explore options like commissioning an independent review to examine our processes and suggest improvements. I am also open to exploring bringing assessments back to City Hall as an arms length assessor system similar to Prince Albert. This needs to be a proactive approach which will help ensure that Moose Jaw’s property assessments are accurate, fair, and instill public confidence.
2. Saskatoon has a Governance Committee which oversees their property tax/assessment department, and theirs far exceeds ours. Are you prepared to implement the changes needed in order to mirror/reflect theirs? Or something better?
Yes, I am open to exploring a governance structure similar to Saskatoon’s, which would provide a framework for greater oversight and transparency in our property tax and assessment processes. My goal is to support a system that reflects Moose Jaw’s unique needs while incorporating best practices from other municipalities. We need to work with the province to ensure assessments are fair, consistent, and efficient, making Moose Jaw competitive and fostering trust in our tax system.
3. a). In your words, what does a Moose Jaw Citizen say when they are asked “What do you think of Moose Jaw?”
a) When asked, most Moose Jaw residents speak with pride about our friendly community, historic charm, and unique attractions like the tunnels and mineral spa and our amazing Wakamow Valley . People tell me they value the close-knit feel and sense of belonging and how our citizens care so much about our city.
b). If you are elected, what will the Citizens be saying in 4 years?
b) In four years, I envision citizens describing Moose Jaw as a city on the rise, where progress in infrastructure, economic development, and public safety has enhanced their quality of life. They will see new businesses in the Agriculture Value sector and new entrepreneur courses at Sask Poly that support this initiative. We will see our local trades benefiting from the major growth that will be happening at 15 Wing. I will be a Mayor that is working hard every day promoting our City, supporting residents and their concerns while attracting new opportunities and growing our business community. I am committed to making Moose Jaw a vibrant, forward-thinking community that residents are proud to call home.
4. Right now, there is a lot of talk about a proposed hotel on the zero block of River Street West. Rumours which include the potential building of a parkade by the City in the area.
The question is as an elected official how much City money - if any - are you prepared to spend either directly or indirectly in an effort to see the proposed hotel development get off the ground?
While I’m supportive of economic growth, I believe any city investment in projects like a hotel and parkade must be carefully evaluated. If elected, I would ensure that any financial commitment aligns with the needs of our city as a whole and benefits our community. We all want to see our historic River Street developed. The community has been waiting for years for this to happen. It is important to note that in the last 10 years we have had 4 brand new hotels open in our City. This industry sees possibilities and opportunities here. Currently there is a parking study underway that will play into the decision around what we need now in the downtown. I would work to ensure Moose Jaw’s financial stability remains a priority for our taxpayers and prioritize my decision around the needs of our city.
5. Are you in favour of more or less funding by the way of levies? Or do you favour finding more funding by the way of tax increases?
Can you explain your reasoning?
I believe in balancing our funding approach carefully. I am cautious about adding levies as they directly impact affordability, and I am also wary of tax increases that could burden residents. Instead, I would prioritize finding efficiencies within our budget and exploring growth-oriented revenue sources. By expanding Moose Jaw’s economic base, particularly through new businesses and tourism, we can increase revenues and provide needed services without compromising affordability.
6. In your own words what is the most important infrastructure projection that needs to be completed.
Where or how would you locate funding for this project?
Our most pressing infrastructure need is improving road and sewer systems, particularly with the Crescent View sewer station upgrade, which directly impacts public health and growth capacity. I would push to secure provincial or federal infrastructure grants for this critical project, ensuring we leverage all available resources. Additionally, I would prioritize any savings from streamlined city operations toward funding this and other high-need projects, demonstrating a commitment to essential infrastructure improvements. We also need an overall city wide road renewal strategy. As our cast iron water breaks are decreasing we need to be shifting funding back into complete road improvements.
7. Affordability is a major concern for many residents.
Are you prepared - yes or no - to strive to make Moose Jaw more affordable?
Can you briefly explain how you would accomplish this?
Yes, I am committed to making Moose Jaw more affordable. I would achieve this by advocating for competitive property taxes, promoting economic development to increase our tax base, and prioritizing cost-effective city operations. Additionally, I would focus on affordable housing initiatives in partnership with developers and our province and ensuring our programs and transit offered at the city are financially accessible. By ensuring thoughtful financial stewardship and seeking growth opportunities, we can create a more affordable Moose Jaw for all residents