A bid to host the 2016 BC Summer Games is not dead yet, despite city councils uncertainty about bringing the event to Richmond.
City staff, who recommended Richmond not host the games, have been directed to work with Richmond Sports Council (RSC) to prepare a bid. The bid will the go back to city council for review in September before a final decision is made.
However, the lack of positive conversation at Tuesdays parks meeting left Coun. Bill McNulty in doubt.
Im disappointed with the discussion, said McNulty. City staff just stuck to their guns and I dont know what theyll come back with. I think we should at least place a bid. Its not guaranteed well host, and (placing the bid is) free of cost.
Despite city staff advice, a number of councillors were strong supporters of going forward with it, according to city spokesperson Ted Townsend.
The report had cited cost and lack of resources as its main opposition, as well as, a wish list to host a number of higher profile events during the same period.
Why do we need another international event here? said McNulty. We need to stop emphasizing the oval and high performance sports that move away from the community.
The event would include close to 400 young local athletes, shifting focus to more accessible activities and emphasizing sports based in Richmond, said McNulty.
If we have the chance to get something, we should at least go for it, said RSC chair Jim Lamond. 2016 is four years away and the city has a list of things its hoping to host, that arent guaranteed.
