McCormac talks about regional economic development plan

Moosomin Chamber of Commerce

October 27, 2025, 1:02 pm
Nicole Taylor, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Spookarama committee members giving a presentation.

Moosomin’s Economic Development Officer Casey McCormac provided an update to Chamber members on Tuesday on a new 10-year regional economic development plan being developed in collaboration with the Towns and RMs of Moosomin and Rocanville.

“Over the past few months we have been working with the Towns and RMs of Moosomin and Rocanville to put together a 10-year regional economic development plan. This plan is being built from collaboration among local leaders, businesses, stakeholders and with support from consultants Dave Froh and Aaron Murray out of Regina. The idea is to create a living plan, something that is practical, action oriented and focused on things we can actually control,” said McCormac.

“Instead of trying to solve every challenge at once, it focuses on our strengths and opportunities that will make the biggest difference for the region.

“The plan builds on what makes the area unique: its diverse economy, strong community spirit, and proven record of regional co-operation. Themes that emerged from community consultations include housing, healthcare, workforce training, business procurement, tourism, and continued regional collaboration.

“Consultants are now compiling this input into a draft plan that will include measurable goals, timelines, and progress-tracking methods. The final plan aims to support business growth, quality of life, and long-term sustainability across the Moosomin and Rocanville region.”

Economic Development Officer Casey McCormac speaking about the regional economic development plan at the Chamber meeting on Tuesday.

Young Entrepreneur Bursary soon to be awarded
The provincial government’s new Young Entrepreneurship Bursary will soon be awarded to a young business owner in the Moosomin Chamber of Commerce area. The recipients for these bursaries are chosen by both the provincial and local Chambers of Commerce.

“The provincial government, the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, and local chambers are working together on the new entrepreneurship bursary. Moosomin is very fortunate. We have lots of very young business owners here,” said Moosomin Chamber President Kevin Weedmark.

The $5,000 bursary is designed to assist a young entrepreneur with business expenses. Each local Chamber in Saskatchewan will award one bursary to a deserving recipient in their community.

“They are very close to making a final decision on that and the Saskatchewan Chamber will be reaching out to the local winner. By the next Chamber meeting, we will be able to make a presentation about that,”said Weedmark.
Details about the local recipient will be shared at the next Chamber meeting.

EAL course needing instructor
Southeast College is looking to launch an English as an Additional Language program in Moosomin but is currently facing a delay due to the lack of an available instructor.

“They are trying to get an English as an Additoinal Language program going in Moosomin. They are having trouble finding an instructor for that,” Weedmark explained at last week’s Chamber meeting.

The program would be offered on a part-time basis. Weedmark said he hopes there is a local candidate who might be a good fit.

“It is just part-time, so I am sure we can help them find someone. We are trying to be engaging and to get them to broaden programs in Moosomin,” he said.

Chamber members were encouraged to think of potential candidates.

Ground will break on new playground in May
MacLeod School is moving closer to its goal of building a new inclusive playground after receiving a $50,000 grant through a new provincial program.

“MacLeod School has been fundraising for three years for the playground and have about $100,000 in the bank. With the new provincial matching funds, that should make a difference as far as getting the new structure built in the spring,” said Chamber president Kevin Weedmark.

“We have our meeting with the supplier on Thursday and we are tentatively booked to build in late May. It will be an inclusive playground for all. We just have to pick out colours and get organized for our build. We are very close,” said Vice-Principal of MacLeod Elementary, Scott Sully.

The new playground is expected to be completed before summer, offering an accessible play space for students and the community.

A cheque presentation of $50,000 was made at Tuesday’s chamber meeting from Moosomin-Montmartre MLA Kevin Weedmark to the MacLeod School Principal Tammy Cole, Vice-Principal Scott Sully, and three MacLeod Students.

Chaperones needed for Spookarama
Chaperones are still needed for the annual Spookarama Halloween dance, organized by the Moosomin RCMP and McNaughton High School. The event provides students with a safe and fun alternative on Halloween night.

Spookarama will take place on October 31 from 8 pm to 1 am and is open to McNaughton High School students.

“From the SRC side of things, we have been out canvassing,” said Tegan Matichuk. “We are looking for donations for prizes. Right now, we are at the point where we need chaperones. Chaperones are the ticket at this point.

Because Halloween falls on a weekend this year, the dance will run later than usual, and additional volunteers are needed.”

Lenora Griemann of the Moosomin RCMP detachment said the goal is to have a prize for every student. “Typically, about two-thirds of the student population attend the dance,”said Griemann.

Music will be provided by DJ V-Muziks, and TJ’s Pizza will supply pizza. Prize donations can be dropped off at the RCMP detachment or at Third Avenue on Main, or pickup can be arranged by contacting Lenora Griemann.