Attendees at the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities convention in Saskatoon last week all had one predominating question, namely, how will the provincial financial standing affect us? For some, the answer wasn't very clear.

"One thing that was implied was that, because the government of Saskatchewan is hurting, farms and such won't be quite as liquid as they have been," related Terry Keating, the Reeve for the RM of Estevan and one of the local representatives in attendance.

"It was nothing specific, but we should be noticing as a province that things will be getting cut back somewhat."

 He said that, as far the economy goes, there wasn't any light at the end of the tunnel.

"It was kind of a hit and miss and best guess scenario. However, agriculture is doing extremely well. SaskPower did a little bit of talking about their solar project and plans throughout the province, and coal is still questionable."

Keating added that the surprise appearance of Canadian businessman and Conservative Party leadership candidate Kevin O'Leary was one of the highlights of the occasion.

David Hoffort, Reeve for the RM of Benson was also in attendance, and he noted the same discomfiture regarding the budget.

"We struggled a little bit with Premier Brad Wall's doings because things are definitely going to come down on the towns and RM's. They are short on money, and of course that filters down to us also."

He said that, all in all, the convention was a success.

"We had good debates, and great resolutions. We passed some, and rejected quite a few."

"We go the convention to work and take part in everything, so I pride myself and my council in that," he expressed.

Hoffort shared some of the items that stood out for himself and his team from the event.

"We always find Premier Brad Wall a highlight, and the bear pit session where we get to ask our questions was pretty good, although it was a little drawn back."

"As conventions go, it was great," he concluded.