Momentum Planning Conference

Ian Loughran is an accomplished father, guitarist, stage-4 cancer survivor, cyclist, and Métis entrepreneur. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Physics) from the University of Saskatchewan, earned in 1995. His career spans eight years in
telecommunications, eight years in the automotive sector, and fourteen years with organizations such as SaskPower, City of Saskatoon, First Nations Power Authority, and
Urban Systems Ltd. Ian currently serves as the principal consultant at Vereco Smart Green Homes and Vereco Consulting and Design.

From 2010 onwards Vereco was an early adopter and a leader in Saskatchewan for designing and constructing high performance, Smart Green buildings. Vereco has been focused on the sweet spot for investing into building energy efficiency and optimizing
the economic outcomes, both operational and capital, for high performance and net zero housing.

Introducing our second set of breakout rooms speakers!

Announcing new speakers for the Momentum Conference!

New Speaker!

Laura Hartney is a graduate of the Regional and Urban Planning Program at the University of Saskatchewan, and has more than 30 years of diverse professional planning experience.
She has spent most of her career working in the public sector, leading teams responsible for future growth planning, working with regional partners to develop and implement regional plans, and working with First Nations to facilitate the creation of urban reserves. Throughout
her career, Laura has valued opportunities to take a holistic, interdisciplinary approach to serving communities, creating partnerships, and bringing together diverse interests and
finding common ground. Laura joined the CIP Board in 2023 as the Region 3 (Saskatchewan) representative, and has served as Vice-President since 2024.

New Speaker Reveal!

Mike Velonas stepped into the role of Chief Executive Officer of the Meewasin Valley Authority in July 2025 after more than 14 years as the Manager of Planning and Conservation.
Born and raised in Saskatoon, you’ll often find Mike walking or biking the Meewasin Trail with his family.

He has a degree in Urban Planning from the University of Saskatchewan and a passion for good urbanism that includes well-connected and protected natural areas.

“Meewasin is a small charity with huge local impact and international renown,” says Velonas. “It’s a transformative time, as we evolve to meet the needs of a quickly growing region and explore potential designation as a National Urban Park.”

Mike’s favourite part of the job working with an organization that makes Saskatoon and region better today and for future generations.

“This is Saskatoon’s greatest asset in Canada’s greatest city, and I am thrilled to lead Meewasin into its next brilliant chapter.”