Grande Prairie city council is again considering whether or not to give the Grande Prairie Stompede funding. It has asked for $50,000 from its Large Scale Tourism Events fund to help out with various costs.
The $200,000 fund was created in the hopes of supporting large events that bring people from outside the region into the city. Mayor Bill Given the criteria is strict and which includes providing proof that up to 35 per cent of attendees come from further away than 100 kilometres.
“We understand that one bad year can absolutely cause challenges for the Stompede and I think that’s why the city came on as a significant supporter over the last couple of years.”
The fund was established in 2017, but not without public criticism. However, Given says the feedback presented council the opportunity to adjust the standards. At the end of the day, it’s up to council to decide whether the money will be allocated, but Given says history is on the side of event organizers.
“Stompede has a great track record of success and is in a very enviable financial situation with significant cash reserves in the bank,” says Given.
The decision is likely to come at the May 6th council meeting.