City of Cranbrook council Feb. 26 voted to decline waiving Western Financial Place (WFP) rental fees for Spirit of the Rockies Society (SOTR).

Recreation and Culture Director Trevor Thors’ noted a report to council the city is concerned about establishing a precedent as there is a tie with the society and a private business venture in Spirit of the Rockies.

“While the request is coming from the SOTR Society, the event itself is being promoted by Fitness Inc/ Zak Enterprise, which is a for-profit business. Future strongman events that the promoter is looking at developing may or may not be associated with the SOTR festival.

“City staff are concerned about setting a precedent of waiving facility rental fees. Rental fees for similar events including Sam Steel Days and Spirit of the Rockies, have consistently been applied,” the report said.

City council received a request letter from SOTR Feb. 5 but action on it was delayed until city staff could obtain more information.

On Feb. 12, staff met with the Spirit of the Rockies administration and the concert promoter to discuss the proposed event.

“In the Recreation and Culture Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 4111 – Section 7.10, the Director of Recreation and Culture may negotiate rental fees lower than those fees outlined in this bylaw when the hosting of an event in a city facility may generate significant event tourism opportunities for the community at large,” Thors explained.

“Staff will work with the SOTR and the promoter to explore alternative facility rental structures such as a lower base rate with incentives for the city, so all parties share the risk and reward.”

Read the city report and SOTR Jan. 18 letter seeking donation of the rental fee.

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