Review finds Saskatchewan assessment agency operating effectively

An independent review has found that the Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency (SAMA) is operating effectively, the Government of Saskatchewan said on Oct. 26. The review also pointed to four areas where the agency’s governance could improve.

The Ministry of Government Relations hired Upfront Consulting to examine SAMA’s governance structure and how ratepayers are represented, looking in particular at transparency and consultation. According to the government’s release, the review concluded that SAMA has “professional competence and management capacity” and is equipped to fulfil its mandate.

SAMA is an independent agency that sets assessment policies and standards, provides valuation services, audits assessments and confirms municipal assessment rolls. The assessment base it is responsible for is valued at more than $278 billion and supports about $2.63 billion a year in municipal and education property taxes.

The four areas for improvement are board member appointments and advisory committees, along with stakeholder engagement and conflict of interest guidelines. The release does not say what the review found in each area.

Government Relations Minister Eric Schmalz said the review gives the agency practical recommendations for involving stakeholders more, and builds on what SAMA already does well.

SAMA CEO Shaun Cooney said the agency welcomed the chance to have its governance reviewed, and to confirm that it serves clients and stakeholders at a high standard.

The province says it provides legislative and policy oversight of the assessment system while respecting SAMA’s independent governance. A summary of the final report is posted on Saskatchewan.ca.