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Committee has to raise half a million dollars to meet budget goal

Apr 28, 2017 | 5:00 PM

Business owners in the Battlefords area can expect a visit from the Saskatchewan Winter Games Committee as it has to raise just over half a million dollars to hit their total budgeted goal of roughly $1.8 million.

The 2018 Saskatchewan Winter Games, hosted by the Battlefords and area, are less than a year away. Representatives from the board informed North Battleford City Council about their budget and broke it down.

Derek Sieben is the administration and finance chair. He spoke to council about the level of confidence he has his team will reach their goal of raising $527,641.

“I know we are up for the task,” Sieben said. “We have a great committee and they really hit the ground running. Businesses can expects visits and the goal is to paint the town in the posters we provide saying you’ve supported the games. It is going to be a very exciting year.”

Sieben said the board prioritized the budget for immediate needs first. He added if they are able to surpass their fundraising goal then there are secondary expenditures they will look at, but didn’t list any examples.

Sieben broke down where the rest of the money will come from. The plan is for $885,000 to come from revenues while merchandise and ticket sales will make up $263,000. The legacy grant will match upwards of $113,000 and the board already has $127,000 in sponsorships lined up.

The floor was then opened for questions and council asked how the $1.8 million budget compared to other games held in the past. According to the games manager, Nicole Clow, it is actually right on par, if not under other games held.

“Estevan’s budget was $3.6million with the big difference being they were building a new athletics facility from scratch,” Clow said. “Our budget is very similar to previous games.”

The winter games officially kickoff on Feb. 18 next year and run to the 24. An estimated 1,800 athletes will compete in 17 sports. The comprehensive high school in North Battleford will be turned into an athlete’s village to house all competitors.

 

Greg.higgins@jpbg.ca

On Twitter @realgreghiggins