Town decides to bid on hosting 2014 Southern Alberta Games, declines 55+ Summer Games

Chris Davis, Pincher Creek Voice

At their September 24 meeting Pincher Creek's Town Council unanimously decided to advise the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass that Pincher Creek would not be pursuing a joint application with them to host the 2015 Alberta 55+ Summer Games.

Council received a request from the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass in July of this year, asking the Town of Pincher Creek to consider co-hosting the event.  The typical cost of hosting was said to be about $800,000.  The matter was discussed at the September 6 Committee of the Whole meeting and at the September 12 Recreation Advisory Committee (RAC) meeting, at which the RAC passed a resolution recommending the Town not pursue the joint application, citing concerns about accommodations, meals, and budget, as well saying the event might conflict with their recommendation that the Town bid on the 2014 Southern Alberta Games.

Council did decide to pursue hosting the 2014 Southern Alberta Summer Games.  Council resolved to bring the matter up at Joint Council on October 4 to see if the MD of Pincher Creek wants to partner with the Town in hosting that event.

Mayor Ernie Olsen suggested making sure there were enough volunteers available ahead of time.  Councillor Wayne Oliver said he believed Pincher Creek had the facilities to host, and Councillor Sahra Hancock pointed out that some of the optional events could be held in the MD.