Royal Bank Cup shoots for support

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: June 07, 2013 1:00 AM
Greater Vernon taxpayers are being urged to expand their support for a major sports event. Royal Bank Cup organizers went before the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee Thursday to request concessions for the national junior hockey championships set for May 10 to 18, 2014 at Kal Tire Place. “It’s in a state of flux as things develop,” said Don Klepp, communications director, of the host committee’s budget. The committee recently discovered that provincial legislation won’t allow it to earn an anticipated $40,000 in 50/50 revenue. Also, while other host cities have earned $65,000 from beer sales, that money will go to the Regional District of North Okanagan. To keep finances on track, the host committee wants to establish VIP areas within Kal Tire Place and keep the revenue from them. GVAC has also been asked to waive its percentage of merchandise sales, about five to 15 per cent. There is also a push to have GVAC upgrade Wi-Fi service in Kal Tire Place. “While the cup is on, we will have all kinds of media there,” said Klepp, adding that the current technology in the building doesn’t keep up with demand. “We lose the signal four to six times a (Vipers) game. It won’t be just for this event. It will be for ongoing events.” No figures for all of the requests were presented. GVAC has already committed free use of Kal Tire Place for the event, while the City of Vernon has provided $14,450 in hotel room tax revenue for marketing. GVAC directors have asked their staff to compile a report on the requests and budgetary implications before making a decision. “Just looking at their asks, they are reasonably small and doable,” said Mike Macnabb, chairperson. Beyond seeking support, RBC organizers say they can reduce GVAC’s costs during the event. “We have volunteers to set up the building and do the take down which reduced the number of staff to be hired. We can also augment security,” said Klepp.