Nanaimo referendum turnout tops election

Nanaimo voters came out in high numbers to shut down a bid to borrow up to $80 million for a new events centre.

The city said 35.3 per cent of registered voters cast ballots. The 2014 municipal election drew 34.1 per cent of registered voters.

Preliminary results were reported shortly after polls closed on March 11 and official results were declared March 15. About 80 per cent voted against the borrowing; there were 19,179 no votes, and 4,706 yes votes.

“With 23,885 ballots cast, we had a record turnout of voters in this referendum,” said chief election officer Sheila Gurrie.

Proponents said the facility could host a Western Hockey League team and major entertainment acts.