Sakimay First Nation gas station open for business

Page 11

Sakimay First Nation has officially opened one of the Regina area's newest gas stations-Salteaux Junction.

The station is located just outside of Regina's western boundary, where Dewdney Ave. becomes Pinkie Rd.

In operation since last November, the station held its official opening June 4. The grand opening drew a lot of attention to the station, said Lisa Sunshine, the station's manager.

"Business has increased since we had our grand opening ... our business has doubled, probably," she said. "It's crazy, the amount of traffic coming through here."

While the station is a little bit out of the way for most seeking to buy gas in Regina, drivers are making the journey to the station, she added.

"We're not that far out of the city. It's about a kilometre," said Sunshine. "Another great thing is that our roads to this station are all paved, so it provides easier access."

The station is the second gas bar owned and operated by Sakimay First Nation. Another one, Goose Lake Gas and Grocery, is currently operating on the reserve.

Salteaux Junction also features a convenience store, selling snacks, drinks and cigarettes. The business employs 13 people, seven who work as pump attendants and six who work in the convenience store.

"I think it's good for First Nations people, because we offer job opportunities and work experience. Revenue wise, it's great for Sakimay First Nation. We're pulling in a lot of revenue," Sunshine said.

The band has land in the general area of Salteaux Junction, and other business and commercial development initiatives in the area could follow the service station's example, she added.

Salteaux Junction is open seven days a week.

This is the second First Nation-owned gas bar and convenience store which has opened near Regina. In 2003, Cowessess First nation opened a gas station just outside of Regina on the city's southeastern outskirts.