Luseland mayor says Hwy. 31 to undergo condition assessment

By Stu Salkeld
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Your West Central Voice

LUSELAND—The Town of Luseland's mayor says engineers will examine the condition of Highway 31 through the community once weather conditions improve.

Mayor Kathy Wurz provided the update following the June 16 regular meeting of council.

In a phone interview with Your West Central Voice on June 17, Wurz said council discussed Highway 31, the provincial highway running through Luseland. She noted engineers had planned to examine the roadway, but the work was delayed by recent rainfall.

Wurz described the work as a "condition assessment," a relatively new process the provincial government is using to evaluate highways. She said engineers will use modern technology to closely examine Highway 31 and assign it a condition rating.

Police update

Wurz said Luseland recently participated in an online training event organized through the police commission. About 60 people attended locally rather than travelling to another community.

The session focused on mental health and policing, including a program developed through the University of Regina.

She noted the Regina Police Service has begun implementing a similar program to better address mental health issues within policing. Wurz said dealing with stress and other concerns early can help prevent larger problems from developing.

Pioneer's Haven

The mayor said the Pioneer's Haven seniors housing board did not meet recently because many of its rural members are busy with farming operations.

She added the organization is also seeking a new secretary-treasurer. The position has been advertised, although she was unsure whether it has been filled.

Street committee

Wurz reported the street committee completed its annual unsightly property tour. Following the inspection, letters were sent to property owners where concerns were identified.

The committee also completed its annual pothole tour and prepared a prioritized repair list for the Public Works Department, with Main Street repairs receiving top priority.

Tree committee

Wurz said Luseland's tree committee also completed its annual inspection.

She noted the town's mature trees are one of its strengths but require ongoing maintenance. The committee identified priority areas for tree work during the 2026 season.

Police chief

Council also recently met with Police Chief Ty Kohlman to discuss recent policing activity in Luseland.

Among the topics discussed was the town's recently approved e-bike and e-scooter bylaw. Wurz said communities across Canada are examining similar regulations, and council believes the bylaw is important to promote safe operation and proper equipment.

Public Works

Wurz said the Public Works Department has added temporary summer staff to help manage its busy workload.

Current projects include grass cutting, swimming pool maintenance, road work and other seasonal responsibilities.

Tax recovery

Council received an update on tax recovery properties available in Luseland.

Wurz said there has not yet been significant interest from potential buyers.

Regional meeting

Wurz also reported the West Central Governmental Committee will soon meet in Luseland.

She said the regional organization provides valuable networking opportunities for urban and rural municipalities, agencies and organizations, while also featuring guest speakers and regional updates.