There’s no question that governments must do their due diligence when it comes to tax dollars. However, the wheels of bureaucracy don’t need to roll slowly.
Case in point, is the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee not deciding how to handle field conditions for the 55+ BC Games, which will be held here in September 2017.
“We will bring it back for discussion in the (2017) budget process,” said Keith Pinkoski, parks manager.
But given that the regional district budget isn’t hammered out generally until spring, that means the volunteer organizers of the Games could be in limbo for some time.
And that would be unfortunate as the request for assistance from GVAC was pretty basic.
All the Games organizers are seeking is an assurance that facilities, and particularly sports fields, will be in top-notch condition in September, and that is critical as facilities can exhibit some wear and tear by the end of the season.
Akbal Mund, GVAC director, doesn’t anticipate a significant investment on the part of taxpayers.
“They want to make sure everything looks the best it can,” he said of the organizers.
And given that the Games will attract about 3,000 participants and have a significant impact on local hotels, restaurants and other businesses, the financial argument for taxpayer support is sound.
We would urge the Greater Vernon politicians to make a decision on funding as soon as possible instead of sitting on the sidelines.
