(File photo/northeastNOW)

By Cam Lee

Safe public spaces act

Nipawin Council opts in to Safe Public Spaces Act

Sep 9, 2025 | 4:09 PM

The Town of NIpawin is looking to increase safety through legislation.

At this week’s meeting, Council resolved to opt in to the Government of Saskatchewan’s Safe Public Spaces (Street Weapons) Act. Established in August, the act was developed in response to public safety concerns about weapon use and possession, bear spray, dangerous tools, and drugs in public spaces. The bylaw would allow Nipawin RCMP to enforce the legislation within the Town of NIpawin.

Town Chief Administrative Officer Michele Sorensen said the decision to opt in helps strengthen protection for the community’s public areas and ensure they remain safe and welcoming for everyone.

“By participating in this provincial framework, the RCMP will be able to more effectively address safety concerns and support a more secure environment for residents, businesses, and visitors,” Sorensen told northeastNOW.

Items defined as street weapons include large knives, machetes, axes, hammers, bear spray and similar aerosols, body armour, hypodermic needles (unless medically necessary), and illicit substances including fentanyl and methamphetamine.

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Sorensen’s report to council said that by opting into the legislation, Nipawin RCMP would be better equipped to seize weapons and dangerous items proactively in areas like parks, streets, playgrounds, public buildings, and common areas. The report stated it would also reduce the visibility and accessibility of such items, and provide another layer of protective enforcement without only relying on the Criminal Code or Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

“The next step in the process is for council to pass a bylaw formally opting in,” explained Sorensen. “This will be forthcoming at a future council meeting.”

Council also received the fire department monthly report for August, and sharps collection continued to be an issue for the department.

They removed 686 sharps found in Nipawin in August, bringing the yearly total to 4,113. As of the end of August, the department was called to 125 sharps pickup calls in 2025. Many of the needles picked up in Nipawin over the past year have been in containers, and not all were associated with illicit drugs. However, the report stated that used Narcan (naloxone) kits have been found, with “testing swabs suggesting fentanyl is starting to become common in the area.”

Sorensen said the collection of sharps is an ongoing concern.

“Designated staff members ensure these materials are handled safely whenever we are notified of concerns,” Sorensen said.

She reminded residents to use designated sharps disposal containers and never leave them in recycling or garbage bins. Sorensen added people should never leave needles in public spaces.

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cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com