The Vancouver Island Mountain Sports Society has asked the regional district to contribute $50,000 towards the Vancouver Island Mountain Centre at Mount Washington.
The district kicked in $38,000 last year.
Various groups have rented space or stayed overnight at the centre since construction was completed in December 2011.
The non-profit VIMSS raises funds for amateur skiers, snowboarders and other mountain sport athletes. Since 2003, the society has raised more than $80,000 for athletes.
Despite challenges such as teacher job action, the goal of the society was to break even last year.
“We came very close,” VIMSS vice-chair Don Sharpe said Tuesday at committee of the whole.
The ultimate goal is to be self-sustaining, as per a three-year plan.
Area A director Bruce Jolliffe asked to see this year’s budget, which would help the CVRD board better understand the group’s financial situation.
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The committee received a report concerning the feasibility of renovating the curling rink, which was constructed in 1959 with additions constructed around 1972 and 1988.
Options range from roughly $400,000 for maintenance and repairs to $3.8 million for a new facility.
“You could easily get 50 years out of it (new facility),” said Harvey Goodman of RDH Building Engineering.
“Is there a long-term commitment to curling?” Courtenay director Jon Ambler said.
Committee chair Edwin Grieve said the Valley has traditionally produced its share of international curling champions.
The curling club has about 450 members.
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After two decades of existence, the Comox Valley Farmers’ Market is still looking for a permanent, year-round site.
The Saturday market operates from April to October at the Exhibition Grounds, and October to April at the Native Sons’ Hall. Its estimated economic benefit to the local economy is about $2.7 million per year, according to a socio-economic impact study.
The Wednesday market runs from June to September at Comox Bay Farm. It pumps about $282,000 into the local economy each year.
reporter@comoxvalleyrecord.com
