Not too late: Time for an open discussion on the Rec Complex?
The Rec Complex with the right kind of star can being in $60,000 plus in ONE NIGHT?
We’re written about the Edson Rec Complex many times before. From the previous Town of Edson administration responding to a sale offer just before the elections, to a request for proposal process (RFP) that was interrupted, kyboshed one might even say, by an Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) inspection that discovered exposed asbestos. In a transparent environment that we are all supposed to live in nowadays, the details of the problem and its possible ramifications how the asbestos became exposed and if there was any fault remain a mystery. If this was the Legislature or the House of Commons most likely there would be very loud calls indeed for an independent investigation. Not so, so far.
Next, the Town of Edson had some work done and presumably signed off by OH&S and declared that most areas were safe. Town Council also decided on demolishing the building and asked Yellowhead County to chip in for the cost. Yellowhead County refused and asked for more information and for alternative strategies to be examined. As far as we are aware this was not forthcoming. Indeed, Edson Town Council went on to vote for another RFP for the demolition of the Rec Complex with presumably just Edson taxpayers footing the bill. One could logically assume that the building was worthless, not viable and must be pulled down? However, we don’t have the reasons why or how that decision was reached or any examination of an alternative. One could also ask why is it OK for Edson taxpayer’s money to be spent on demolishing what could be a useful building? Surely tax payers have a right to know the full rationale behind the decision?
Anyway, fast forward a while and Yellowhead County and The Town of Edson have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and formed a steering committee for a new multi-plex centre and already issued an RFP for architectural services, the site could well be Griffiths Park and the spend maybe up to $50 million. There may be hiccups down the road on some government funding, especially with an election looming and some tough decisions may have to be made to put more Town and County money into the pot. Right now, we can see no provision for any performing art centre.
The old Rec Complex was used for one grad and on Sept. 13 top country star, Brett Kissel backed up by local performer Tyler Babiuk, performed a benefit concert at the Rec Complex for Edson boy, Parker Martin who is fighting a brain tumour.
We have heard that around 1,200 people attended the concert with a ticket price of $50. That’s $60,000 in ticket sales plus beverages. Great news for Parker too. But, think on this, the Rec Complex with the right kind of star can being in $60,000 plus in ONE NIGHT? Surely, someone can come up with a business plan for ENTERTAINMENT including the performing arts? There is time for study and a rethink before the wrecking ball comes in. Decisions can be unmade, it’s been done before.