The Enchanting Town of Kyle: A Hidden Gem in Saskatchewan
Seeking a Leader: The Quest for a New Mayor
The picturesque and remote town of Kyle, nestled in the heart of Saskatchewan, Canada, is on the lookout for a new mayor. The town’s current leader is set to retire, leaving a vacancy that residents seem hesitant to fill. Established in 1923 and named after its original settler, Jeremiah Kyle, this charming town had a population of 413 according to the 2021 census. With a compact land area of 0.45 square miles, Kyle boasts a population density of 922.1 per square mile.
Location and Historical Significance
Kyle is strategically located 45 miles north of Swift Current, the sixth-largest city in Saskatchewan. It lies along the remnants of the historic Swift Current-Battleford Trail, a crucial 190-mile transportation and communication route from the late 19th century, connecting various settlements.
A Town with a Rich Heritage
The town gained local fame when, during road construction in 1964, a 12,000-year-old woolly mammoth was discovered. The bones of this ancient creature are now proudly displayed at the Royal Saskatchewan Museum in Regina. Despite its rich history and unique attractions, Kyle faces a leadership challenge as the mayoral ballot remains unfilled.
Leadership Challenges and Community Spirit
Current Mayor George Williams is preparing to retire, concluding his three-year term next month. With a declining population, Kyle’s residents are also tasked with electing a new councilor to strengthen its leadership. The upcoming election, scheduled for November 13, has already encountered difficulties, with previous attempts to secure candidates proving unsuccessful. Kyle’s Chief Administrative Officer, Amber Dashney, remains optimistic, expressing confidence that someone will eventually step forward. If the mayoral position remains vacant, a by-election will be scheduled to ensure both the mayor and councilor positions are filled.
A Broader Issue: Leadership in Small Towns
Kyle is not alone in facing these challenges. Other small communities also struggle to fill local council and leadership roles, as noted by former Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association President, Gordon Barnhart. While not widespread, this issue is not uncommon.
Tourism and Attractions: A Growing Industry
Tourism is becoming increasingly important to Kyle’s economy. Surrounded by regional and provincial parks, the town offers numerous attractions, including a local rodeo, Walleye Tournaments, and renowned dining experiences at establishments like the White Bear Hotel. The vintage drive-in movie theatre, a nostalgic nod to the 1950s, continues to entertain visitors each summer.
A Tribute to the Past with an Eye on the Future
Kyle proudly showcases its mascot, “Wally” the Woolly — a towering three-meter cement tribute to the town’s significant archaeological find. According to the town’s website, “Our heritage is important to us, but the future is just as exciting! We believe in the value of the next generation and are taking positive steps to ensure this town remains a viable place of business and, more importantly, a safe place to raise a family for the coming years.”
In conclusion, while Kyle faces the immediate challenge of finding new leadership, its vibrant community and rich history make it a town full of potential and promise. As it steps into the future, Kyle continues to cherish its past while embracing new opportunities.
