Municipal governments do not negotiate international trade agreements or impose tariffs. Those responsibilities belong primarily to the federal and provincial governments.

But city leaders are not powerless.

Tariffs can increase the cost of municipal equipment, construction materials and replacement parts. They can delay infrastructure projects, put local employers under pressure and ultimately affect jobs, investment and municipal revenue. The dispute may begin far beyond Regina, but its consequences can still reach our businesses, workers and taxpayers.

Estevan Mayor Tony Sernick is right to call for a negotiated resolution and greater certainty. Regina should add its voice to that call. Advocacy, however, is not enough. Our city must also prepare for the possibility that the dispute will continue.

The City of Regina and Economic Development Regina should provide residents and businesses with a clear, updated assessment of our local exposure. Which industries and employers are most vulnerable? Could tariffs increase the cost or delay the completion of municipal projects? What assistance is available to affected businesses and workers?

The city should also review its purchasing and capital plans to identify potential supply-chain disruptions and cost increases. Where practical, more Saskatchewan and Canadian businesses should have an opportunity to compete for municipal contracts. This must be done transparently, within applicable procurement rules and trade agreements, and with value for taxpayers remaining central.

Supporting local suppliers does not mean closing Regina to the world. It means strengthening local capacity so our economy is less vulnerable when international relationships become unpredictable.

Regina cannot end the tariff dispute. It can, however, ensure that local businesses receive timely information, municipal projects are protected and residents are not surprised by avoidable costs.

Good local leadership means preparing for economic pressure before it becomes a crisis.