City of Red Deer will take a pass on hosting the 2016 Tour of Alberta cycling event.
While council expressed their support for the event, there were concerns that the city and its volunteers already have too much on their plates considering the upcoming 2016 Memorial Cup and 2019 Canada Winter Games.
Coun. Lawrence Lee said he was concerned that adding another event would put too much stress on volunteers at this time, although he hoped the city would be considered as a host community for future tours.
Other councillors shared similar sentiments and the motion to not seek an opportunity to host was unanimously supported.
A report to council from the city’s Recreation, Parks and Culture Department says the hosting rights fee and partnership investment would cost $250,000. Add in other costs related to the event and a local festival and the price tag climbs to around $340,000. Most of that would likely have to come out of the city’s coffers.
The 2016 Tour is focused mostly on southern Alberta. While Red Deer had not been formally asked there was an opportunity to host the Prologue, comprised of time trials on a course within the city.
In other council news:
Council voted to leave the downtown outdoor patio as a summer venue only.
The Greater Downtown Action Plan Steering Committee recently recommended that council take another look at leaving the patio in place all year.
Coun. Lynne Mulder was in favour, noting having more outdoor areas available would fit in well with the 2019 Canada Winter Games.
The cost of keeping the patio open is $45,000 a year.
Coun. Frank Wong was opposed. He said businesses have told him that it interferes with parking and they do not want it there all year.
City manager Craig Curtis said the city is looking at outdoor activities and venues downtown as part of its Winter Games planning.
The vote was 5-2 to leave the patio season as is.