Talks continue around developing a regional funding formula for arenas in the Fundy region.
Council received an update on the Fundy Region Ice Strategy during Monday night’s meeting.
Nick Cameron of the Fundy Regional Service Commission said he hopes to present a formula sometime next spring.
But some councillors think the entire process is taking too long, including David Merrithew.
“I don’t think this document is strong enough, I don’t think it’s bold enough … I don’t think it’s fast enough,” Merrithew said.
The Fundy region has 12 arenas and five of them will reach their end-of-life within the next five years — four in Saint John, one in Rothesay. pic.twitter.com/rtzfYHUt4g
— Brad Perry (@BradMPerry) November 19, 2018
If the funding formula does not come together, Saint John has a “Plan B” to recoup arena operating and capital costs.
The city has proposed raising arena rental fees and providing a partial rebate to city residents.
In Saint John, about 42 per cent of arena operating and maintenance costs are paid by user fees — taxpayers pick up the rest, plus all capital costs.
Goal #2 is the regional funding formula, which Cameron admits will be a tough conversation. But he says there are many advantages to having a regional formula. These are the guiding principles they’re focusing on. pic.twitter.com/3OxCae4B1e
— Brad Perry (@BradMPerry) November 19, 2018
Mayor Don Darling said raising arena fees is a last resort and he is hopeful for a positive outcome.
“I think this is a small opportunity for us to demonstrate a level of regional cooperation,” Darling said.
“If we can’t do it on rinks, boy oh boy, we’re in trouble.”
Cameron also cautioned against user fees as 82 per cent of sports organizations have said it would negatively impact participation.
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Story by Brad Perry
Twitter: @BradMPerry
Email: perry.brad@radioabl.ca
(Photo: qplex in Quispamsis)
