Swift Current city council covers many things, not the least of which is bylaws.

During the most recent city council meeting, they listened to a reading for an amendment to a particularly important bylaw. 

The 'Electrical Utility Bylaw', or Bylaw Number 6 - 1989, is being amended so the City can achieve parity with SaskPower. Interestingly enough, to amend the existing bylaw, they have to pass another bylaw to make it official. This bylaw will be Bylaw Number 2 - 2023.

Speaking on the matter at council, Swift Current City Councillor Pat Friesen succinctly summarized the reason for this change.

"The City of Swift Current purchases its electricity from SaskPower and resells it to customers," said Friesen. "We are bound to follow SaskPowers rates as recommended by the Saskatchewan Rate Review Panel and approved by provincial government cabinet."

SaskPower received approval from the provincial government cabinet to up its rates, and not just for one time. The first 4 per cent increase came into effect on September 1, 2022. April 1, 2023, will be SaskPower's and Swift Current's next 4 per cent increase to come into effect.

This bylaw will ensure that the City, which buys its power from SaskPower, will remain competitive in attracting and retaining customers, be they residential, commercial, or industrial. 

If you want to learn more, check out this article from when the amendment was first brought to city council.