A misunderstanding between the City and Nelson Regional Sports Council around end of day events for the upcoming Rick Hansen Many in Motion tour came to a head at last Monday’s committee of the whole meeting.
“There were some assumptions made by everybody,” said sports council executive director Kim Palfenier. “There was an assumption the city — because they asked us — would support it wholeheartedly and we thought that meant financially too. As we heard on Monday, that wasn’t necessarily the case.”
At a committee of the whole meeting in February, the sports council requested $5,000 for the end of day events.
Palfenier said that’s above and beyond what she describes as “soft costs.”
“Public works, the police department and the regional district are doing their duty but there is still a cost to it,” she said.
After the February meeting, the sports council was notified their request had been denied.
“There was basically a misunderstanding,” said Palfenier. “[But] they have stepped up to the plate and it looks like they are going to support us anyways.”
Palfenier said events like the end of day for the Many in Motion tour are important catalysts for Nelson to showcase community spirit.
“Twenty-five years ago when this event came through people got behind it massively and now people want to do that again, and it’s important that somehow we spearhead a way for people to be able to participate,” she said. “It’s a big deal. It’s what keeps cities alive and thriving.”