Saskatchewan’s main opposition party, the NDP, is urging Premier Scott Moe’s administration to take action by cleaning up the sewage contamination at a property vacated by a cult in the village of Richmound. NDP representative Brittney Senger emphasized that a mere provincial health order for the property owner to address the issue is insufficient. Senger stressed the need for government intervention to eliminate the sewage problem, allowing the community to recover from the ordeal and enabling children and families to resume using local parks and playgrounds.
The NDP is also pushing for an investigation into the delay in declaring the old school building uninhabitable by both the Saskatchewan Health Authority and the government. Premier Moe’s office released a statement indicating their involvement in providing guidance and assistance to the community regarding regulatory matters such as bylaw establishment and voter qualifications. Officials have been actively engaging with village authorities and the RCMP since December 2022 to address concerns under the Municipalities Act.
Residents of Richmound have endured distress due to the activities of the Kingdom of Canada cult over the past two years, with reports of harassment, verbal abuse, and invasive filming by its members. The situation escalated when Ricky Manz, the property owner and a cult member, ceased paying utility bills, leading to water and sewage services being disconnected. Consequently, sewage overflowed within the building and was even dumped on the premises, causing a prolonged foul odor that impacted the surrounding area. The unsanitary conditions forced children to avoid the nearby playground.
The RCMP’s intervention on September 3 was triggered by reports of firearms inside the building, resulting in the seizure of imitation handguns, ammunition, and electronic devices. Subsequently, arrests were made, and charges were filed against several individuals associated with the cult. Health authorities deemed the building unfit for occupation and instructed the owner to promptly rectify identified deficiencies, including connecting to a lawful sewage system.
Despite the health authority’s mandate to ensure compliance, questions remain regarding the timing and completion of necessary corrective actions. The municipality may step in to address hazards if the property owner fails to comply. Richmound’s mayor, Brad Miller, highlighted the financial strain on the village and emphasized the need for external assistance to resolve the lingering issues caused by the cult’s presence.
While some progress has been observed following the health order, challenges persist, with Mayor Miller expressing frustration over the prolonged ordeal. The community’s resilience is being tested, but they remain hopeful for a resolution to the ongoing cleanup efforts.
