PALMERSTON – Despite Minto council's initial willingness to offer sponsorship in-kind support to help a local curling club host an annual provincial elementary curling event, the total cost of their support has left some councillors unsure they want to commit to the full price tag.
Deferring their decision during a Minto council meeting Tuesday afternoon, some councillors said they want to ensure allowing the Palmerston Curling Club to use the Palmerston and District Community Centre for free to host the 2025 Elementary School Curling Championship next spring won't interfere with other groups' abilities to apply for facility credits in 2025.
The group previously delegated to council asking for in-kind support for community centre facility and arena use during the event to keep the cost affordable for the over 250 kids anticipated to attend.
A new staff report has since determined a 100 per cent donation will cost the township $6,000 in 2025 and would require an adjustment to the $4,000 annual facility credit budget.
"I mean there's other options," said Coun. Ed Podniewicz. "They could go out to service groups and wherever else and ask for some contributions...just in my opinion, I'm not in favour of giving them more than what's allowed."
Reviewed by the community services advisory committee, the group indicated they would support up to 100 per cent of the rental costs for the Palmerston Curling Club, although some shared they're "a little leery" that it could be considered a large amount.
"I understand that they're asking for what will we give- there's nothing saying we have to cover the entire amount. We could give a partial donation," said Deputy Mayor Jean Anderson. "I just think it's a big chunk of money for one group ... a 50 per cent donation is better than nothing."
When asked how donating the full amount would impact other organizations in 2025, staff said the budget line would have to be increased otherwise the town would be "over budget before we even started the year."
The township has invited the club back to council to explain why they feel the 100 per cent donation is needed.
Isabel Buckmaster is the Local Journalism Initiative reporter for GuelphToday. LJI is a federally-funded program.
